16 32 1900 https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/450e44dde26f3c39bcea7e409bde676d.pdf bdb50062ecb3ffb8a5ab3959345ec649 PDF Text Text Writing elected officials to support the Maritime Security Act are clockwise from the upper left Steward Ekow Doffoh and AB Danny Miller on the Sea-Land Inspiration; ABs Steve Fabritsis and Nick Kekliko of Houston; AB Nestor Agcaoili and SA Ben Matthews on the Global Link; AB Richard Campbell of Seattle; AB Branko Misura of San Francisco; Pensioner Isidore Dongen of Mobile; Chief Cook Charles Atkins, AB Tim Smith and OMU Jim Smart of Seattle; Bosun Calvin Miles of Mobile; Wiper Kristof Zschaler on the USNS Antares; and Chief Cook Ronnie Hall on the Cape Rise. Page 3. �2 SEAFARERS LOG FEBRUARY 1996 President's Report . Handling the Challenge The SIU ta1ces great pride in the fact that its membership plays such an active role in the welfare of the union and the maritime industry. Whenever Seafarers see a need, they do not hesitate. They ,__.... respond immediately. This has been proven time and again during national emergencies, seen most recently when members crewed the Ready Reserve Force vessels Cape Race and Cape Rise and had them ready to go to Bosnia before the scheduled sailing date. The photos on the front page of this issue of the Seafarers LOG also provide another excellent example of what we are talking about. From all across the country and from ships around the world, Seafarers are contacting members of the U.S. Senate to Michael Sacco urge them to pass a bill that will ma1ce sure the U.S. flag continues to sail on the high seas into the next century. That bill is the Maritime Security Act, the 10-year maritime revitalization pro- gram that would provide funds for approximately 50 U.S.-flag containerships. The legislation, originally suggested to Congress in 1992, is supported by the SIU. In December, it received the overwhelming support of the House of Representatives. And President Clinton has said he will sign the measure when it clears Congress. The only action remaining before the bill reaches the White House is for the Senate to pass it. Seafarers, pensioners and their families have seen the urgency of this situation and are responding. They have been writing letters, making telephone calls and meeting with senators to inform them of the need for this legislation. The outpouring has been tremendous because Seafarers know that personal contact from a constituent with an elected official is the most powerful means of bringing attention to an issue. News reports have stated the full Senate could begin debate on the Maritime Security Act later this month. While I thank all who already have contacted senators to seek support for this important bill, we cannot let up now. Seafarers, pensioners and their families must continue to answer this call until the bill is passed and the president's signature enacts maritime revitalization. SIU-Crewed RRF Ships Return from Bosnia Crews Brave Brutal Weather to Deliver Materiel to NA TO Forces Bosun Paul Lewis spoke with obvious pride as he recounted the two-month mission recently completed by the SIU-crewed Ready Reserve Force (RRF) vessel Cape said that nine days of bad weather (five at one stretch, four at another) constituted the most difficult part of the voyage. In particular, the ships encountered Rise. major storms in the Bay of Bis"The whole crew worked their cay, near France. They also overtails off, and I mean everybody . came icy rivers in Bremerhaven. This entire ship was packed with Fo'c'sle or Foxhole? every piece of military equipment you could think of," Lewis said "We were tossed around pretty January 29 aboard the vessel. good. Some of the British His comments followed a pier- (military personnel) who rode side ceremony in Portsmouth, Va. with us said they would rather honoring the crews of the Cape sleep in a freezing foxhole under Rise and the Cape Race, another enemy fire than be on a ship RRF roll-on/roll-off cargo ship during that kind of weather," said manned by Seafarers. Both ves- Lindsay, who sailed on the Cape sels were activated by the U.S. Rise. Maritime Administration on However, crewmembers December 1 to support NATO described the rest of the trip as peacekeeping troops in Bosnia. smooth. A number of Seafarers The NATO mission is known as commented on the excellent Operation Joint Endeavor. working rapport between the The vessels sailed ahead of crews and the military aboard schedule-smack into brutal both ships. Many also expressed winter storms in the North Atlan- the belief that the vessels' timely tic. Despite the severe weather, response and valuable contribueach ship made two deliveries to tion to the NATO effort proved Split, Croatia, where the cargo once again the need to maintain a later was loaded onto trucks and strong U.S.-flag merchant fleet. "We had a hard-working trains for transport to NATO forgroup that stuck together like ces inland. Overall, the ships traveled family ," said Chief Cook Ronnie more than 17 ,000 miles apiece Hall, a Lundeberg School and delivered about 2 , 500 graduate who sailed on the Cape wheeled and tracked military Rise. "In the galley, we served a vehicles, along with 2,600 pallets total of approximately 3,000 of ammunition and other sup- meals, including traditional plies. The Cape Rise and Cape Christmas fare. Morale was very Race-which are operated by high." OMI Ship Management, Inc. for Bosun Lewis stated that the the U.S. Maritime Administra- galley gang "played a big part in tion-loaded cargo in Antwerp, keeping everyone's morale up. Belgium; Marchwood, England; They served excellent chow, and and Bremerhaven and Emden, plenty of it. They really did a phenomenal job." (A ship's ofGermany. Their activations coincided ficer who overheard Lewis while with the deployment of 60,000 passing by agreed. He told a NATO peacekeeping troops, in- reporter from the Seafarers WG, cluding 20,000 American ''This is one of the few ships I've military personnel, to the former ever been on where I gained weight!") Republic of Yugoslavia. Recertified Steward William Like a number of his fellow Seafarers, AB Robert Lindsay Perry on the Cape Rise recalled Volume 58, Number 2 ~71 February 1996 The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District; AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Second-class postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998 and at additional offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Managing Editor, Daniel Duncan; Associate Editor/Production, Deborah A. Hirtes; Associate Editors, Jordan Biscardo and Corrina Christensen Gutierrez; Art, Bill Brower; Administrative Support, Jeanne Textor. Civilian mariners who sailed to Bosnia were honored January 29 after their ships docked in Portsmouth, Va. Among the honorees and others in attendance were (seated, from left) Chief Steward William Perry, SIU Port Agent Mike Paladino, retired Recertified Steward Tony DeBoissiere, Chief Steward Bud Marchman, (standing, from left) Chief Cook Ronnie Hall, AB Rob Lindsay and SA Joaquin Martinez. that crews aboard both RRF ships "worked around the clock to get everything together" in the initial aftermath of the call-up. "We sailed ahead of schedule, so you could say we got the job done," said Perry, a Lundeberg School graduate and 16-year SIU member. "Everyone worked well together," he added. Lots of Work Lewis, Lindsay and the rest of the deck gang on the Cape Rise, as well as their counterparts on the Cape Race, operated 50-, 60and 85-ton elevators to move cargo to different decks. In the aftermath of the storms, the deck crews checked to ma1ce sure the military vehicles and cargo remained secured. DEU Rick Langley of the Cape Rise said the SIU crews "did our best. We did a lot of maintenance in the engineroom, keeping things safe. The ship really took a beating from the weather, but otherwise, it was a great trip." Langley, who upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 1994, said the American mariners enjoyed conversing with the British army personnel whom they transported. "The British guys were pretty cool. They talked a lot about what goes on in the U.S., as compared to Britain. Most of them would like to visit the States, but they've never been there." Operation Quick Lift-another two-month mission in support of NATO forces in Bosnia. "I was surprised when we got activated this last time," Mack said. "This was tougher than the earlier trip. There were more people to feed, plus the weather was worse. "But I'm not complaining. The crew worked together beautifully and we got the job done!" Mack said the British riders appreciated the U.S. hospitality. "They gave a plaque to the ship with their platoon information on it, and they gave one to me, too. I couldn't believe it," she added. Lewis said that during the voyage, crewmembers aboard the Cape Rise regularly discussed how their mission reflects the need to maintain a strong American-flag presence on the high seas. A good step to that end would be Senate passage of the Maritime Security Act, he noted. "We talked about it after every fire and boat drill, after every safety meeting," Lewis said. "We answered the call this time, just like we have done every time in the past." Seafarers Answer Call During the recent ceremony, Vice Admiral Phillip M. Quast, head of the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC), described the vessels as "the best type of ships we have to carry our cargoes. Our ability to get our forces in is a critical factor," he stated. ''Forces [in Bosnia] today are appreciative of what these two crews did." Familiar Trip Chief Steward Margie Mack is one of many Seafarers who crewed the Cape Race not only Fellow Seafarers commended the work of Chief Steward William during Operation Joint Endeavor Perry (left), Chief Cook Ronnie Hall (right) and the rest of the galley but also earlier in 1995 during gang aboard the Cape Rise. �FEBRUARY 1996 SEAFARERS LOG Senate Ready To Consider U.S. Ship Bill ~; -~-- .. This converted old ferryboat serves as the terminal for NY Waterway's 13 SIU-crewed ferries. A new, bigger NY Waterway terminal, including office space and shops, will be built nearby at an estimated cost of $27 million, replacing this one. New Terminal Planned For NY Ferry Service SIU-Crewed Oneration Receives I:' $1 Millionfior Site Exnansion r Bob Alburtus remembers there were more skeptics than passengers when the Seafarerscontracted New York-New Jersey commuter ferry service started in 1986. "The first day, we had 23 passengers-and the rides were free," said Alburtus, one of two original crewmembers of NY Waterway's first ferry. "I think a lot of people didn't believe ferry service would catch on." Almost nine years later to the day, near the same berth from which that first ferry sailed, Senator Frank Lautenberg (DN. J.) and New Jersey Congressmen Robert Menendez and Robert Franks announced a $1 million grant from the Federal Highway Administration to begin engineering and design work for a new intennodal terminal that will replace the existing NY Waterway facility in Weehawken, N.J. Overa11, the project will cost an estimated $27 million. Funded through public and private sources, the terminal will open in approximately three years. The announcement took place December 18, and it was indicative of the ferry service's tremendous growth. Today, more than 70 Seafarers crew 13 NY Waterway fenies that not only transport some 20,000 daily commuters, but also offer seasonal sightseeing tours and daily lunch cruises on the Hudson and East rivers. Overall, NY Waterway ferries have transported approximately 20 million passengers. Expansion Well-Received Few in 1986 would have predicted such success, especially considering the initial lack of support. "We had a lot of opposition from New York City (at first}," said NY Waterway President Arthur Imperatore, who solely funded the start-up operation. "They thought it would drain away their wealth somehow. Now they regard it as something that supports the city and the region." Seafarers reacted optimistically to the announcement of the 3 new terminal. "It's great to see expansion. If things go well for the company, they should go well for us," coneluded AB Teddy Terzakos. Captain John Willette stated, ~~~~~~u~j~~~~:~i~~~:~n~~ fact that it will be linked with the lightrailsystemmeansitwillbe easier for people to get to the boats." The current terminal actually is a converted vintage ferry that also serves as an office and ticket station. It is being replaced because of projected ridership growth, as well as hull damage caused by major storms in the last few years. The new terminal will have four ferry slips and a capacity of 22,000 passengers per day, twice the current capacity. It will house NY Waterway offices, ticketing facilities and shops. Sen. Lautenberg, the ranking Democrat on the Senate Transportation Committee, said, ''The new terminal will increase the efficiency of the existing public transit connections to the Weehawken ferry. Once the (light rail) pr?ject i.s completed, the new termrnal will also allow for the seamless movement of transit passengers from rail to ferry." Although the company has made no announcement, indications are that NY Waterway will add new routes and order new ferries sometime in the next few years. Possible new routes include La Guardia Airport to East 34th Street and Wall Street, as well as Nyack, N.Y. to Yonkers to West 38th Street. "We hope there's always room for more routes " said Russell Bostock, port c~ptain for NY Waterway. "We've proven that everything here is working, and there's an increased 11eed for it. The state and federal government have recognized it, and they're behind it." Funding for the construction of the new terminal is expected to come from federal grants, the Senate consideration of a 10year maritime revitalization program to help fund approximately 50 U.S.-flag containerships could come as early as the end of this month. The Maritime Security Act, passed by the House of Representatives with bipartisan support on December 6, would provide $1 billion over a 10-year period to provide support for some 50 militarily useful U.S.-flag containerships. In return for receiving the money,thecompanieswou1dhave to make their vessels available to themilitaryintimesofwarornational emergencies. Newspaper accounts have stated that Senator Trent Lott (RMiss.), the body's majority whip, is ready to bring the bill up for consideration as soon a3 the Senate returns to Capitol Hill following the Presidents' Day holiday (February 19). In order to consider maritime revitalization sooner, Lott noted that the Senate would take up the bill passed by the House (H.R. 1350) rather than legislation (S. 1139) that has cleared the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee, which he chairs. During hearings held in 1995 by the Senate committee and the House Merchant Marine Oversight Panel, the SIU announced its support for the maritime revitalization program. Speaking to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce last month, Lott said the Maritime Security Act "will help save the maritime industry in America. It will produce jobs." The senator added he has been in contact with Transportation Secretary Federico Pefia to secure bipartisan support for the measure. President Clinton has said he would sign the measure when it passed by Congress. The Maritime Security Act only outlines the maritime revitalization program. A second measure is required to provide the actual dollars to fund the program. The Congress included funding for the program within the Commerce appropriations bill which passed late last year. However, President Clinton vetoed the bill for reasons not related to maritime revitalization. Other mechanisms to provide funding for the program are being explored. seafarers Let senators Know Importance of U.S.-Flag Fleet .Seafarers, pensioners and their families have been busy contacting members of the U.S. Senate to support the Maritime Security Act. The bill outlines a 10-year, $1 billion program that would help fund ~ppro~mately 50 U.S:-flag contamersh1ps. The Senate 1s expected_to begin debate on !he bill when 1t re~s to Washington, D.C. late~ this month. . In urgmg the elected of~~ials to . su~por_t the ~ant!me rev1 tahzatton leg1slat1on, Seafarers across the country and ~board s~ps have been ~usy w~t­ mg, calling and talking with senators to inform them of the various economic and national security aspects of the measure. National Security Crewmembers from the Cape Rise wrote and mailed letters when the ship retu~ed to Norfolk, Va. from Bosrua last month. Bosun Paul Lewis stated the bill was a major topic of discussion during the Cape !Use's twomonth deployment m support of ~.J.S. troops_ and other peacekeepmg forces m the former Yugoslavia. "We constantly talked about the need for a U.S.-flag merchant fleet. Our troops never should be put in a position where they have to d_epend on foreign ships," Lewis declared. Adding his concern over the need for U.S.-flag merchant ships for national defense was the vessel's chief cook, Ronnie Hall. "It's very important that the U.S. merchant marine support our troops. I think the Bosnia situation once again shows the importance of keeping the U.S.-flag Continued on page 6 fleet going." Updating crewmembers aboard the Global Link on the status of maritime revitalization legislation is Baltimore Patrolman Dennis Metz. Listening are (from left) OMLI Shannon Wilson (partially obscured), OMLI Chris Duffy, Electrician Tom Betz and Electrician ·Franklin Coburn. Pensioner Beau James of Houston also noted the national defense issues covered by the Maritime Security Act. "The bill needs to pass for our nation'ssecurity.Ourtroopsneed to know our ships and citizens will be ready to support them when needed "added the steward department ~ember who retired in 1983. Economic Concerns Two members from Jacksonville, Fla. who have contacted their legislators noted both economic and family reasons for keeping the U.S.-flag fleet sailing on the world's oceans. Both have children who have joined the SIU and want to make careers out of the merchant marine. "This is the way we make our livings," said Chief Cook Ossie Statham of herself and her son, SA Oshawn King. "We need to make sure the jobs will continue to be there to support our families." AB George Bruer noted his son, SA · Kurt Bruer, has just started sailing "and I want an industry for him." The elder Bruer, who began his career with the SIU in 1959, said, "American people have forgotten the part in our nation's history played by seamen in building this nation. America was built with a strong maritime fleet. It needs to keep a strong fleet." Considering the economic security that would be provided by the bill, AB Joel Lechel, who sails from the port of Houston, stated, "Congress has got to help American companies keep up with foreign competition. I am a firm believer in that and I believe this bill will help our maritime industry compete against foreignflag ships." Recertified Bosun Oscar Wiley of San Francisco said he was concerned about American companies reflagging their vessels. ''This is very important," the Continued on page 4 �4 SEAFARERS LOG FEBRUARY 1996 Legislators Line Up Behind Jones Act Congressional support to retain the nation's freight cabotage law, known as the Jones Act, continues to come in from elected officials from around the country and both political parties. Enacted in 1920, the Jones Act states that cargo carried between two domestic ports must be moved aboard U.S.-flag, U.S.crewed and U.S.-owned vessels. Among the various maritime industries covered by the Jones Act are the inland waterways trade, harbor tug operations, Great Lakes ore and grain carriers and deep sea cargo ships moving goods along America' s coastlines. A similar law to the Jones Act, the Passenger Services Vessel Act of 1886, stipulates that movement of passengers from one American port to another must be done on U.S.-flag, U.S.-crewed and U.S.owned ships. Centuries of Service U.S. Representative Randy Tate (R-Wash.), in a message to the Tacoma, Wash. Propeller Club, pointed out cabotage laws like the Jones Act have existed since the U.S. became a nation. "United States cabotage laws were enacted were enacted centuries ago for reasons that are still valid today," Tate noted. "If the United States needs an army overseas, we will need a merchant marine to deliver the soldiers, equipment and supplies to the designated destination. For instance, during the Persian Gulf War, millions of tons of food and ammunition were transported efficiently by U.S. cargo carriers. U.S.-flagged and U.S.-crewed ships are critical to preserving our nation's security during emergencies," Tate said. Provides Economic Support In proclaiming her support for the Jones Act on the Senate floor, Senator Patty Murray (D-Wash.) outlined the economic benefits provided by the law. "The domestic waterborne trades of the United States contribute more than $15 billion to the American economy, including more than $4 billion in direct wages to U.S. citizens. "The economic impact of that income is mult~~lied ~y t~e thousands of additt~nal Jobs m cabotage-related busmesses. ~e J.one~ Act employers pay $1.4 billion m state and federal taxes." After noting the Jones Act is vital to the interests of the state of Washington, the senator added !hat the law "generates Am~rican J?~s, ~evenues and e~,onorruc actlVlty m all 50 states. Murray called the domestic shipping industry "a family trade." She said the foreign-flag operations "have no interest in furthering the national interest objectives which the Jones Act is intended to enhance-jobs for Americans and a fourth arm of defense in times of national emergency. "It seems to me that it makes no more sense to invite foreign shippinginterestsintoourdomes- the shipping channels. A member of both the House Budget and Transportation and Infrastructure committees, he emphasized his point by recounting that dredged contaminates from Staten Island, N.Y. recently were sent via barge to Corpus Christi, Texas, where they were then loaded into railroad boxcars to be transported to Utah for disposal. This had to be done because the Environmental Protection Agency had declared the contaminates too polluted to be sent to the Sandy Hook ocean mud dump, located six miles off the coast of New Jersey. Franks pointed out the cost of moving the material from New York to Utah via Texas was $118 per cubic yard, rather than the $3-7 per cubic yard usually charged for using Sandy Hook. "How long can you sustain the economic viability of a port when you are charging $118 a cubic yard?" the representative asked. He then noted that in order for the port of New York and New Jersey to maintain its shipping channels and berths, the annual dredging maintenance need is between five and seven billion cubic yards. "We are talking about a significant amount of dredging that has to occur on a routine annualized basis to protect the viability of the [New York and New Jersey] port which has 180,000 jobs connected to it and makes a $20 Continued from page 3 28-year SIU membernoted. "This is about job security. This industry has been good to me and my family and that is why I have been writing letters continuously." Seafarers are urged to continue contacting members of the Senate tic trades than it does to invite a to seek passage of the Maritime Security Act. Each state's senators stranger to intervene in a family and a sample letter are shown below. matter. In either case, there is no necessity for doing so, and the STATE SENATOR STATE SENATOR results can be disastrous," the Washington senator concluded. Ala. Mont. Howell Heflin Max Baucus 'Impeccable Record' From the East Coast, U.S. Representative Patrick Kennedy (D-Mass.) stated in a letter to Thomas B. Crowley Jr., chairman of Crowley Maritime Corporation, "To eliminate, or significantly alter, the Jones Act would be to place the U.S. maritime industry at a disadvantage with respect to government-subsidized competitors from abroad." Kennedy pointed out that nearly 50 maritime nations have cabotage laws and "none of these nations has shown any inclination to open their domestic maritime industries to U.S. companies." The representative pointed out that maritime is essential to the economy. "The use of Americanbuilt, documented, operated and owned domestic trade generates billions of dollars in wages, taxes and shipping revenues for the U.S. economy." He added, "It is in the interest of our nation's economic and national security to continue to support domestic maritime services. The industry, with the support of the Jones Act, has maintained an impeccable record of reliable service to customers throughout the United States and Puerto Rico." Congressman Calls far Streamlining Federal Dredging Permit Process U.S. Representative Bob Franks (R-N.J.) last month called on Congress and the federal government to work on ways to streamline the process for issuing permits for federal dredging projects. Speaking before the Washington, D.C. Propeller Club on January 24, Franks said the troubles associated with federal regulations that must be met before dredging can occur "has enormous implications for the future prosperity of the U.S. economy. With 95 percent of the world's trade transported via ship, this system of ports serves as our lifeline to the world marketplace." Following Franks' remarks, Deputy Maritime Administrator Joan Yim noted the administrati on had released a national dredging policy in December 1994 reaching the same conclusion as Franks. He told Yim he was willing to work with the administration to search for ways of implementingsomeoftherecommendations made within the policy. The congressman, whose district includes the port facilities of Newark and Elizabeth, N.J., stated that shipping interests will look elsewhere if the port of New York and New Jersey or any other American facility cannot solve the problem of how to dispose of the materials dredged from barbors and berths so vessels can ply ISeafarers Contact Senators I billion contribution to this nation• s economy." Franks stated that pollution within the silt lining the berths and shipping channels remains a major problem. He called for national action that would allow for dredging to take place while providing for "the essential need to protect the public health and safety." One possible solution he provided was to build a containment facility for the heavily polluted dredged material, "like a containment island." During its 1995 convention, the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department, of which the SIU is a member, called upon the federal government to streamline the dredging permit process while finding ways to help port modernization projects. U.S. Rep. Bob Franks (R-N.J.) outlines the need for dredging to take place in order to keep America's ports viable for wor1d trade. Richard Shelby Ted Stevens Frank Murkowski Ariz. John McCain Jon Kyl Ark. Dale Bumpers David Pryor Calif. Dianne Feinstein Barbara Boxer Colo. Hank Brown Ben Nighthorse Campbell Conn. Christopher Dodd Joseph Lieberman Del. William Roth Joseph Biden Fla. Bob Graham Connie Mack Sam Nunn Ga. Paul Coverdell Hawaii Daniel Inouye Daniel Akaka Idaho Larry Craig Dirk Kempthome Ill. Paul Simon Carol Moseley-Braun Ind. Richard Lugar Dan Coats Iowa Charles Grassley Tom Harkin Robert Dole Kan. Nancy Kassebaum Ky. Wendell Ford Mitch McConnell J. Bennett Johnston La. John Breaux Maine William Cohen Olympia Snowe Paul Sarbanes Md. Barbara Mikulski Mass. Edward Kennedy John Kerry Mich. Carl Levin Spencer Abraham Minn. Paul Wellstone Rod Grams Miss. Thad Cochran Trent Lott Christopher Bond Mo. John Ashcroft Alaska Neb. Nev. N.H. N.J. N.M. N.Y. N.C. N.D. Ohio Okla. Ore. Penn. A.I. S.C. S.D. Tenn. Texas Utah Vt. Va. Wash. w.v. Wis. Wyo. Conrad Burns J. James Exon Robert Kerrey Harry Reid Richard Bryan Robert C. Smith Judd Gregg Bill Bradley Frank Lautenberg Pete Domenici Jeff Bingaman Daniel Patrick Moynihan Alfonse D'Amato Jesse Helms Lauch Faircloth Kent Conrad Byron Dorgan John Glenn MikeDeWine Don Nickles James M. lnhofe Mark Hatfield RonWyden Arlen Specter Rick Santorum Claiborne Pell John H. Chafee Strom Thurmond Ernest Hollings Larry Pressler Thomas Daschle Fred Thompson Bill Frist Phil Graham Kay Bailey Hutchison Orrin Hatch Robert Bennett Patrick Leahy James Jeffords John Warner Charles Robb Slade Gorton Patty Murray Robert Byrd John D. Rockefeller Herbert Kohl Russell Feingold Alan Simpson Craig Thomas SAMPLE LETTER Address of Sender Phone Number of Sender Date The Honorable (Full Name of Senator) United States Senate Washington, DC 20510 Dear Senator (Last Name): As a registered voter of your state who earns a living as a merchant mariner, I am asking for your support on a bill that I feel is very important to our nation. The Senate will soon consider the Maritime Security Act. This bill received strong bipartisan support when it passed the House of Representatives on Decmeber 6 and when it cleared the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee earlier last year. This bill has bipartisan suport because it makes sure the United States will continue to have a strong commercial fleet sailing into the next century. A strong merchant marine with U.S. crewmembers aboard these ships is vital to America's national and economic security. I urge you to support the Maritime Security Act and thank you for you consideration. Sincerely, (Your Name) �FEBRUARY 1996 SEAFARERS LOG Severe Icing Clogs Shipping on Lakes Cuts Short 1995 Sailing Season Deep ice packs created by a series of harsh winter storms brought the ships plying the Great Lakes to a near standstill during the final weeks of the region's sailing season. Shipping channels from Duluth, Minn. to Buffalo, N.Y. used by SIU-crewed vessels became unnavigable unless cleared by icebreakers. "Our winter season arrived about two weeks earlier than we are used to," noted Bosun John Hickey, who sails from the port of Algonac, Mich. "We didn't anticipate, nor have we ever experienced, such bad ice conditions before the actual end of the season. Ice is always present on the Great Lakes in the winter but this year was different. It came on so fast and it caused a lot more problems," stated Hickey, a 1984 Piney Point graduate. In late December, after signing off the Sam Laud for the winter, Hickey took a relief job aboard a Great Lakes Towing vessel to assist the U.S. Coast Guard in prying an iron ore carrier out of ice in the St. Clair River in St. Clair, Mich. According to news reports, the fully loaded 767-foot ore carrier Reserve slowed down when it was warned that a tanker, having difficulty in the ice, was broadside in the channel. The reduction in speed caused the Reserve to become entangled in the ice and current. It had been pushed out of the channel into shallow, icy water. The grounding put a stop to all movement on the St. Clair River for several days. "Vessels had to anchor in the Detroit River until we could get the Reserve loose," recalled the bosun. "When they were forced to slow and sit in the ice, most of them became stuck. It was incredible. "It took three harbor tugs and three Coast Guard cutters to break her out. We worked around-the-clock trying to free her. Everyone involved worked very hard," said Hickey. 12-15 Feet Thick The Reserve was not the only Great Lakes vessel having problems maneuvering in the St. Clair River where ice depths ranged between 12 and 15 feet. American Steamship Company's (ASC) Indiana Harbor was one of 14 other vessels stuck in ice near the steamer. While the tugboats and the Coast Guard worked to free the Reserve, the SIUcrewed Indiana Harbor broke from the ice and made its way to the Reserve where crewmembers distributed food, water and bread to those aboard the distressed vessel. Also, arrangements were made for the Reserve to offload 4,000 tons of taconite ore pellets into the empty Indiana Harbor. Following lightering operations, the Indiana Harbor sailed out of the St. Clair River for Duluth to deliver the Reserve's cargo. However, on the return voyage from Duluth into Lake Huron, the Indiana Harbor became stuck in the ice-choked St. Marys River near Sault Ste. Marie, Mich. "It was a harsh and bitter winter this season," recalled Bosun David Barber, who was aboard the Indiana Harbor when the vessel was surrounded by ice. "The ice was very intense, and we weren't the only ship out there to have severe problems. A lot of boats got stuck in ice everywhere around the Lakes. The radio lines were constantly jammed," stated Barber. "On the voyage back [to Michigan], we kept in close contact with the Coast Guard. We didn't expect to get stuck, but then again, who does?" said Barber. "We were stuck in the ice for four days. The ice was more than we expected. Others had made it through before us, but the temperature had dropped too fast and the ice refroze in greater depths. We just didn't have the speed we needed to break through the ice," Barber noted. ''The ice was unbearable. I have spent my whole life on the Lakes, but I have not seen it this bad in a very, very long time," he concluded. Originally scheduled to lay up for the winter in Duluth, the Indiana Harbor, which sustained some minor hull damage, retired for the season in a Michigan shipyard. Ice Catches Others The Indiana Harbor was only one of several SIU-crewed lakers to encounter problems in the last few weeks of the season. The American Republic left the port of Cleveland bound for Toledo, Ohio for winter layup when it became jammed in ice for several days just outside the Cleveland harbor. It joined 10 other vessels in the same area forced to wait outside the ice field until Coast Guard ice cutters could clear the way into the ports of Erie, Pa., Cleveland, Toledo, Lorain and Ashtabula, Ohio. "Everyone on the Lakes has had the same problems," stated Donald Pfohl, director of marine personnel for ASC. ''The lakes and rivers we all traverse are completely choked with ice. There is no way around it, and the ice has left no one unscathed," he added. "To say that we had problems with ice is the understatement of the year," proclaimed Charles Neigebauer, an ' AB/watchman who recently signed off the St. Clair. "We were sailing from Duluth to St. Clair when 63 inches of snow fell on the Soo Locks in Sault Ste. Marie. Everyone had to stop because visibility was so bad. We anchored at Thunder Bay, Canada for 28 hours until the storm cleared. "However, when we finally reached the locks, we were part of a 40-ship backup. Twenty-eight more hours passed before we were allowed to pass through the locks only to find that the Coast Guard had shut down the entire St. Marys River system because of the severe ice and poor visibility. We had to tie up at the end of the .. locks until they reopened. It took the St. Clair four days to make a 52-hour trip," The Plain Dealer, Cleveland, Ohio recalled Neigebauer. Many SIU-crewed vessels like the American Republic, shown trying to leave Cleveland, "I have seen a lot of snow in my day but plowed through deep ice during their final runs of the 1995 Great Lakes sailing season. you are talking about more than four feet of snow falling in one day. It was awful. I been busy breaking ice for Great Lakes caused, we had to set up convoys of ships. have never been so glad to get off a ship in vessels since early December. However, Breaking up the ice for one ship at a time all my life," said the AB. no sooner had they cleared the way than was both time consuming and a wasted "It was so cold and snowy that it was ice would form again. effort due to how fast the water refroze," almost unbearable. I stood watch, and the "By breaking up the ice, we expose said Wells. longest I could go was four hours at a time. more water to the freezing temperatures He noted that at the beginning of last That is a lot of time to spend outside on the and thus increase the depth of ice as the month, a 19-ship convoy was assisted by deck in white-out conditions. ships pass through," explained Wells. several ice breakers to make the passage "Even with all my heavy gear, I was "The more ice we turned over, the deeper into Lake Superior. near freezing. It was like sailing through it would form," he added. Regardless of valiant efforts put forth Alaska in the most brutal of winter condiThe heaviest concentration of ice has by the Coast Guard, some SIU-crewed vestions," recalled Neigebauer, who is spend- been in the St. Marys River near the Soo sels were unable to get through the St. Marys ing his winter layup "enjoying the sun" in Locks. (The locks control access between River and the Soo Locks for winter layup in Florida. Lake Superior and Lake Huron.) Many the port of Duluth and Superior, Wis. As mentioned, the Indiana Harbor SIU-crewed ore carriers had to sail Never Ending Story through the area in order to meet the never made it back to Duluth after deliver"It has been a very unusual winter on season-end demand for iron ore before the ing the cargo for the Reserve. The Walter the Lakes," noted Coast Guard Lt. Com- locks closed on January 15. J. McCartney, St. Clair and H. Lee White mander Kevin Wells of the Coast Guard's In the weeks prior to the closing, Coast went into layup in other, more accessible Cleveland district which oversees Great Guard and Canadian ice cutters worked ports along the lower Lakes. Lakes shipping. According to Glen Nekvasil of the endless hours attempting to keep the ship"The ice started early and came on the ping lanes free of ice long enough for the Lake Carriers' Association, an organization of U.S.-flag ship companies on the heels of a cold front that arrived in the ore carriers to sail safely through. region in late November and early DecemWells noted that more ships had to be Lakes, Great Lakes vessels moved two milber-and stayed. In addition to the freez- escorted through the ice from late Decem- lion tons less in 1995 than during the 1994 ing temperatures, strong winds swept ber to January 15 than during the 1993-94 season. "Up until November, we were across the Lakes and took what heat was season when severe ice conditions on the ahead. The early winter took all the wind out left in the water away-causing ice to form Lakes demanded the agency use every of our sails and decreased what we could very rapidly," Wells told a reporter for the available resource to help lakers navigate move. The demand was there but the weather just did not allow us to get the cargo Seafarers LOG. through the ice. U.S. and Canadian ice cutters have "With all of the ice and the problems it to its final destination," Nekvasil concluded. __ 5 �6 SEAFARERS LOG FEBRUARY 1996 Waterway Crews Combat Winter SIU members who crew NY Waterway passenger ferries did not exactly greet the Blizzard of '96 with nonchalance, but because they are accustomed to keeping the boats running no matter how bad the weather, they certainly were not rattled by the latest challenge from Mother Nature. The first and worse half of the blizzard dumped upwards of two feet of snow in New York and New Jersey on January 6-7. Despite the severe storm, all but one of the SIU-crewed ferries operated on Monday, January 8, and all of them ran throughout the rest of the week. "We still had some diehard passengers who went to work," said Captain John Willette. "A number of them work at New York University Hospital, so they had to get there. The passengers were very appreciative that we were running." For Willette and his fellow Seafarers, the first challenge was getting to the piers. Several members said they combined walking with taking whatever public transportation was available to get to work. Of course, once the Seafarers arrived at the docks in New York and New Jersey, they were faced with drifts as high as four feet. And even after they shoveled pathways for themselves and the passengers, strong winds periodically would cover the clearances again with snow. More Challenges As in years past, Seafarers this winter are facing obstacles besides snow. Ice, fog and strong ' winds haYe made the crossings of the Hudson and East rivers very challenging. "It's quite a test," said Captain Manny Rebelo. "The ice is Captain Manny Rebelo says he nowhere near as bad as it was two and his fellow Seafarers often util- years ago, but the north wind ize radar to ensure the safest pos- packs it into the New York side, sible river crossings. and that can get pretty thick." NJ Commuter Terminal To Boost Ferry System Continued from page 3 New Jersey Transportation Trust Fund, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, and private financing from NY Waterway. At various stages of completion, the project will require approvals from government. Imperatore also told a New Jersey newspaper that NY Waterway is negotiating with New York officials for a similar terminal on the Manhattan side of the Hudson. Presently, the company has a temporary terminal on two piers at 38th Street. Reliable Transportation The safe and consistent work of SIU members aboard the boats has been a key ingredient in NY Waterway's success. No matter the weather or other circumstances, Seafarers keep the ferries running in reliable fashion (see story above). Each ferry has a capacity of about 400 passengers, travels at an average speed of between 15 "We felt we couldn't let people down. We have to keep running," said AB Teddy Terzakos. Such reliability has been a hallmark of the Seafarers-crewed ferries since the service began in 1986. It particularly has been evident during severe winter storms in 1993, '94 and '96. The ferries also provided many commuters their only form of transportation • home following the terrorist attack at the World Trade Center in February 1993, when Manhattan trains and highways closed. In each case, SIU members maintained service. and 18 mph and is roughly 100 feet long. One-way trips last six to ten minutes, depending on the route, and the ferries run from 6:45 a.m. until 10 p.m. The fares average about $30 per week for customers who buy a monthly pass. For all ferry patrons, NY Waterway also offers free connecting bus service on both sides of the Hudson. In recent years, the company has added day cruises and harbor tours. Last year, it initiated lunchtime routes consisting of leisurely, 40-minute trips around the harbor-the waterborne equivalent of a stroll. Passengers may bring their own lunch or purchase food and beverages aboard the four boats that are equipped to offer snacks. "The growth has been remarkable," said SIU Representative Ed Pulver. "But it's not finished. In the next year, I believe business is really going to take off. ''This proves that when a good company and a good union work together, they give good service." Deckhands Errold Lanier (left) and Christopher Fernandez are two of the 70 Seafarers who work aboard NY Waterway ferries. Throughout the winter, SIU crews have battled icy conditions on the Hudson and East rivers, as shown in this photo. Strong winds and snow drifts also have presented challenges, but the Seafarers-crewed ferries have maintained their schedules. Rebelo noted that the boats regu1arly are fitted with new propellers to replace those damaged by ice. He also explained that, during non-daylight hours and/or in foggy conditions, crews "are getting a lot of radar time this year. Every boat is equipped with a topflight radar, and they're constantly used. "Radar can be more essential than your eyes," he added. "Every one of us has experience using radar units, which helps maintain safety." Virgin Island Hurricane Relief from Puerto Rico Seafarers recently continued their relief efforts to the residents of St. Thomas, St. Croix and St. John, U.S.V.I., who were affected by Hurricane Marilyn last September. These photos show Seafarers at the SIU hall in Santurce unloading a truck containing food, water and cleaning supplies (donated by members of the SIU and one of its affiliates, the United Industrial Workers) which then were loaded into containers bound for the Virgin Islands. SIU-contracted Crowley American Transport donated the use and transportation of the container. Pictured above are (from the left) SA Ed Figuerra, Bosun Louie Perez, AB Antonio Rodriguez and DEUs Angel Periera, Pedro Santos and Casimiro Mejias. ! AB Julio Matos (holding box) joins with fellow Seafarers in unloading relief supplies from the truck. SA Jose De Los Santos is standing at Matos' left. From left, Bosun Louie Perez, SA Angel O'Neil and AB Victor Pacheco carry cases of non-perishable foods for hurricane victims into the SIU hall in Santurce, P.A. �FEBRUARY 1996 SEAFARERS LOG Author Sailed with the SIU During the Conflict Book Recounts Mariners' Role in World War II The story of the U.S. merchant marine during W odd War II is one that has been told by one generation of Seafarers to the next generation aboard ships and in union halls. Bits and pieces of the history have been written for posterity but never has a comprehensive work been researched and published. Never before, that is, until now. In a fast, exciting read, Heroes in Dungarees, The Story of the American Merchant Marine in World War II collects the old sea stories, newspaper accounts and archival files into one book to show how Americans served their nation by sailing aboard merchant ships. Adding flavor to his research, author John Bunker includes many first-hand accounts that he collected and saved from the time he sailed as a fireman and oiler in the SIU during the war. "I felt it was time someone told a more complete story," noted Bunker, who worked with the SIU in various capacities following the war. When he was not with the union, Bunker reported on maritime and waterfront issues for many years with first the Christian Science Monitor, then the San Diego Tribune. Through all these jobs, he was able to collect information about merchant mariners' experiences during the war. Attacked Before War Declared Bunker relates in the book that the first U.S.-flag vessel to become a victim of the war was the freighter City of Flint, which was boarded by German sailors on October 9, 1939 and forced to sail to Nazi-occupied Norway. Americans did not learn of the ship's capture until January 1940 when the freighter docked in Baltimore after the German sailors were forced off the ship by armed Norwegians. Thanks to a history of the union during World War II published by Bunker in 1951, many Seafarers are aware that the SIUcrewed Robin Moor was the first U.S.-flag merchant ship torpedoed by a German submarine. This took place on May 21, 1941-almost seven months before Pearl Harbor was bombed, which officially brought the U.S. into the conflict. 'Ifelt it was time someone told a more complete story.' - John Bunker Heroes in Dungarees provides extensive coverage of the war in the North Atlantic as well as the Murmansk runs to provide arms and food to the Soviet Union. As Bunker noted in his interview with a reporter for the Seafarers LOG, these two fronts for the merchant marine were where most of the action took place. Tales of Seafarers Among the stories told in the chapters dealing with the North Atlantic are the exploits of Seafarers Gustave Alm and Rex Dickey. Alm sailed as a carpenter aboard the Angelina when a torpedo hit the freighter at night during a storm on October 17, 1942. After abandoning ship in a lifeboat, Alm and others were thrown into the water by rough seas. The carpenter and several others grabbed the railing on the overturned lifeboat and held on for dear life. When a shipmate would lose his grip or give up during the night, Alm would grab him, return him to the boat and urge him to hold on because they would be rescued. When daylight broke the next morning, a rescue vessel spotted Alm and four other survivors of the Angelina clinging to the upturned craft. Despite injuries and exhaustion, Alm tied the rescue lines around his shipmates who were lifted to the vessel before he finally was saved from the sea. Within a few weeks of his rescue, Alm returned to sailing and survived the war. In a chapter entitled "The Man Who Refused to Die," Bunker recounts the struggle waged by AB Dickey after his vessel, the Wade Hampton, was torpedoed on the night of February 28, 1943. Dickey and Bosun John Sandova remained on deck to tend the lifeboat falls. When the last lifeboat was lowered, the crewmembers in it pushed away, forgetting that Dickey and Sandova were still on the sinking ship. The pair launched a life raft, a 10-foot square wooden platform on drums. Unlike the boats, which could offer some protection from the elements based on their design, the rafts were flat Newly published Heroes in Dungarees provides a theater-bytheater account of the work of the American merchant marine during World War II. and fully exposed to rain, snow, wind, spray and the sun. The two had to jump into the frigid water to reach the raft. Once on it, they broke out the oars- an effort that proved futile in what actually was a moderate gale. Several ships went by without seeing them. Sandova died from exposure on the second day. Dickey kept alive by moving his arms and legs and by a strong mental determination to live. Dickey survived the three-day ordeal on the raft and eventually became a port agent for the SIU. A Photo: Maya Inc. John Bunker Journal. In 1942, Bunker joined the SIU and sailed in the engine department as a wiper, fireman, oiler and deck engineer, mostly aboard Waterman ships. Like many other SIU members, he saw war action against submarines and bombers. During the invasion of Sicily, Bunker's vessel, the Jonathan Grout, experienced some 40 air raids. During one, the ship next to the Grout was sunk. "The blast felt like the ship was lifted out of the water," he recalled in an interview with the Seafarers LOG. During a submarine attack, a torpedo missed the Grout and sank a transport in the next column. While sailing aboard the Waterman vessel Bayou Chico, he experienced rocket attacks on Antwerp, Belgium by German V-1 and V-2 rockets. Bunker served aboard seven ships during the war, sailing in the Atlantic, Caribbean, Pacific and Mediterranean. As an SIU member, he wrote the "Fore 'N Aft" column for the LOG. Following the war, Bunker came upon the idea to collect the stories of other mariners who had served their country aboard merchant ships during the war. After working as a reporter and feature writer for the Christian Science Monitor in Boston, Bunker moved to Washington, D.C. to work with the National Federation of American Shipping, a lobbying organization for the U.S. merchant marine. In 1951, he wrote The Seafarers in World Among the stories told ... are the exploits of Seafarers Gustave Alm and Rex Dickey. Worldwide Effort While a majority of the mer- South Atlantic and along both chant ships lost during World coasts of South America against War II took place in the North German U-boats and surface raiders. It also describes the ordeals faced by merchant seamen in the Pacific and Indian oceans versus Japanese attackers. In fact, Bunker's research War II, a 44-page journal which recounted revealed the Japanese were more the contributions of SIU members during likely to commit atrocities against the conflict. Copies of the document were American merchant mariners than sent to members of Congress to emphasize the Germans were. In the book, he describes several of the docuthe vital role played by the mariners. Bunker moved to the West Coast in the mented attacks on mariners who early '50s to work as the maritime and had abandoned their ships. military reporter for the San Diego Tribune. All the chapters are heavily He stayed with the paper for 12 years and detailed with footnotes stating came back east. how Bunker acquired the inforAt this time, SIU President Paul Hall mation. Besides the tales asked Bunker to work with the union on provided by surviving mariners special projects. Hall was very interested in and Bunker's own war experienunion history and had Bunker compile a ces, he used such sources as the history of the old International Seamen's National Archives, books written Union and the SIU. This material came from about the war, The New York many sources around the country and now Times and the Seafarers LOG, comprises a unique historical resource in among others. the Paul Hall Library and Maritime Heroes in Dungarees also Museum at the Lundeberg School in Piney provides a 16-page appendix listPoint, Md. Bunker also wrote a history of the SIU ing the 733 U.S.-flag merchant which appeared in the LOG as a continuing ships lost during the war. This 369-page book provides series from 1980 to 1983. Bunker retired from the SIU in 1980, plenty of information for those shortly after Hall's death. wanting to learn about the U.S. Heroes in Dungarees is not his first merchant marine in World War II. book. He has also written Liberty Ships: The For others who already have some Ugly Ducklings of World War II, Harbor knowledge of the action, Heroes in and Haven: An lllustrared History of the Dungarees will provide additional Port of New York and a history of the background to supplement other American merchant marine, which ap- histories of the war. peared serially in U.S. Flag, published by The book, priced at $32.95, the Transportation Institute, a Washington, may be obtained by contacting D.C.-based organization dedicated to the the Naval Institute Press at 1(800) promotion of the U.S. merchant fleet. 233-8764. Journalistic and Seafaring Careers Aid Bunker in Writing Mariners' War History UTHOR JOHN BUNKER combined the two major loves in his life to write Heroes in Dungarees, The Story of the American Merchant Marine in World War //: journalism and the sea. As a young man, Bunker made several trips to sea, after which he went to the University of Pittsburgh and wrote for several community newspapers. After graduation during the Depression years, he worked at various jobs, then became a reporter for the Louisville (Ky.) Courier- Atlantic, by no means was that the only stretch of sea where mariners saw actions. Heroes in Dungarees provides information on the fighting that took place in the Caribbean, the 7 �B SEAFARERS LOG FEBRUARY 1996 Mariners Need Additional ID by Oct. 1; USCG to Issue Document at No Cost As of October I, active deep-sea mariners-including those who sail as ABs, pumpmen, tankerman assistants and any other seamen with a rating who hold a lifeboat ticket-must possess a supplemental form of shipboard identification in order to comply with an international agreement covering maritime certification and safety. There is no charge for this identification. The U.S. Coast Guard recently published its policy for issuing the form prescribed by a regulation of the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for mariners (STCW). Seafarers who need the STCW form may get it through the mail or at a Coast Guard Regional Exam Center (REC). Seafarers should note that the STCW form automatically will be issued to mariners who renew their z-cards or test for an upgrade before October 1. However, a mariner who renews a document or license strictly for continuity purposes will not be issued the STCW form until he or she shows proof of being ready to sail. The form simply is a letter-size piece of paper listing a mariner's ratings and any applicable limitations including medical waivers. It utilizes terminology to create a universal form of identification as called for by the STCW convention, but it essentially provides the same information found on a z-card. The standard format was adopted by the nations signatory to the STCW (including the U.S.) in order to facilitate port-state control functions. Ship inspectors will check the standard form rather than reviewing each nation's version of a z-card. This is expected to simplify the inspectors' jobs and thereby bolster shipboard safety. The STCW form does not have an expiration date, although it only is valid when accompanying a valid z-card or license. A photo is not required, but may be used. According to the Coast Guard, the following deep-sea mariners need the STCW form by October 1: • Any rating qualified as lifeboatman • Tankerman-person in charge (PIC), tankerman-assistant and tankerman-engineer • ABs and some specially qualified ordinary seamen • Operators of uninspected towing vessels with an ocean or near coastal route and operators of uninspected passenger vessels with a near coastal route •Masters and mates holding a license valid for service on vessels on ocean or near-coastal routes, regardless of any tonnage limitation • Engineer officers licensed for service on vessels of 1,000 horsepower or more. Mariners who go to an REC to get the STCW form should bring their z-card or license. However, there is no guarantee the form will be issued the same day. Those who want to secure the STCW form via mail should send a letter stating that he or she is applying for the form. The letter should include the mariner's full name as shown on the license or z-card, social security number, return address and copies of each valid z-card or license. U.S. Coast Guard Regional Examination Centers [Editor's note: Address correspondence to: "Commanding Officer (REC), U.S. Coast Guard, Marine Safety Office, "fallowed by the address] 510 L. Street Suite 100 Anchorage, AK 99501-1946 (907) 271-6733 or 6735 Customhouse Baltimore, MD 21202-4022 (410) 962-5132 455 Commercial Street Boston, MA 02109-1045 (617) 223-3040 196 Tradd Street Charleston, SC 29401-1899 (803) 724-7693 433 Ala Moana Blvd., Rm 1 Honolulu, HI 96813-4909 (808) 522-8258 8876 Gulf Freeway Suite 210 Houston, TX 77017-6595 (713) 947-0044 2760 Sherwood Lane Suite2A Juneau, AK 99801-5845 (907) 463-2450 165 N. Pico Avenue Long Beach, CA 90802-1096 (310) 980-4483 or 4485 200 Jefferson Avenue Suite 1301 Memphis, TN 38103-2300 (901) 544-3297 Claude Pepper Building 6th Floor 51 S.W. First Avenue Miami, FL 33130-1608 (305) 536-6548 1440 Canal Street Eighth Floor New Orleans, LA 70112-2711 (504) 589-6183 Battery Park Building New York, NY 10004-1466 (212) 668-6395 6767 N. Basin Avenue Portland, OR 97217-3992 (503) 240-9346 1222 Spruce Street Suite 211 St. Louis, MO 63103-2835 (314) 539-2657 Building 14 Coast Guard Island Alameda, CA 94501-5100 (510) 437-3092 or 3093 1519 Alaskan Way S. Building 1 Seattle, WA 98134-1192 (206) 217-6115 Federal Building, Room 501 234 Summit Street Toledo, OH 43604-1590 (419) 259-6394 or 6395 'Santa' Stresses Need for Strong U.S. Fleet Christmas Card a Hit on Kainalu Seafarers aboard the containershi p Kainalu recently received a unique Christmas card from Chief Engineer Bill Tracy. Using double-exposure photography as well as creative writing skills, Tracy put together more than 100 editions of a 51/2by-4 l,4 inch booklet recounting a visit by Santa Claus to the Seafarers-crewed Matson vessel. Each greeting featured 11 photos and a verse that emphasized the need for a strong U.S.-flag merchant marine. Tracy, who began his sailing career in 1965, is pictured in a Santa suit and in work clothes. Also featured is Recertified Steward Carl Poggioli, who insisted on serving breakfast to St. Nick. "I think Carl went overboard in making Santa sign a meal voucher," Tracy said with a laugh. "Actually, Carl was a tremendous help in doing the card. He's also one of the best unlicensed department heads I've ever seen." Tracy distributed the booklets to shipmates on the Kainalu and to maritime union officials who are involved in the vessel'soperations. "Most of them didn't know I was doing it, but it was wellreceived," he said. "Everyone was very supportive." . The_ cover feature~ color tllustrations of the ship and of Tracy dr~ssed as Santa, hold~ng an Am~ncan flag. Each four-line stanza IS follow~d by a photo. The complete verse IS as follows: Twas The Nite Before Christmas Hawaii This Year Off-Loading The Ship Alongside The Pier We Doubt He Could Come No Snow For His Sleigh But We Didn't Know He Was Riding Our Way (Note: Santa is pictured on a union-made Harley Davidson) Then What To My Wondering Eyes Did Appear But Santa On Top The Reduction Gear Then Out Of His Bag He Slowly Did Hump A Gift For The Ship A Hydrazine Pump A New Mandolin He Gave To Me Too For Last Year's Guitar Did Not Make It Through For Him Coveralls A Gift From The Ship For Work lfThe Sleigh Broke Down On His Trip The Galley, I Called To Make Him A Snack So He Would Be Fed Before Heading Back The Steward Said, "Milk And Cookies Won't Do!" And Sat Us Both Down For Breakfast For Two Of Foreign Flag Ships Santa Spoke His Concern And Hoped Of This Threat That Congress Soon Learn Then Up By The Boat A Hawaiian Hymn He Strummed While I Picked The New Mandolin Then Proudly He Hoist A Gift From His Bag For Matson Ships Fly The American Flag "Merry Christmas!" He Called As He Left The Scene "And May The Lord Save Our Merchant Marine." A M h tt ·d t ass.ac use s rest en (who does, m fact, play the mandolin), Tracy said he also mailed copies of the booklet to his senators and congressman. "To see these foreign [companies] come in here and dominate shipping, it hurts," said Tracy, a veteran of the Persian Gulf War. "I didn't pick the message of the card by accident, and I thank the SIU for the use of the 'Save Our Fleet' poster" which is featured in one photo. The engineer, who formerly sailed on tugboats in the New York area, added that he started doing the Christmas booklets about 10 years ago. "One year, I was having trouble getting (items for) a repair list, so I put it in the form of a poem. The next year, I added the photos and turned it into a Christmas card. I've done them every year since." Recertified Steward Carl Poggioli (standing) serves pancakes to Chief Engineer Bill Tracy (left) and a guest. In this double-exposed photo, Santa (a.k.a. Tracy) is signing a meal voucher. Wnrle much of the tone of Tracy's Christmas booklet is lighthearted, his message to keep the American flag on the high seas is no laughing matter, the author noted. �FEBRUARY 1996 SEAFARERS LOG 9 Deadline Nears to Apply for '96 Scholarship "I'll get around to it." How many times have those words been uttered? "There's plenty of time. I don't have to hurry." This is another familiar refrain to many. For some projects, there may be no deadline. However, to apply for a Seafarers Welfare Plan scholarship, that is not the case. All completed applications for those qualified individuals planning to attend a college or university in the fall must be mailed and postmarked ON or BEFORE April 15, 1996. That means time is of the essence. With the cost of higher education going up each year, there is no time like now to plan for the future. Applying for a Seafarers Welfare Plan scholarship could provide an answer to the question of how to pay for future schooling. S i nce the SIU began its scholarship program in 1952, a total of 242 members and their spouses and dependent children have been awarded higher education grants. Thisyear,theSeafarersWelfare Plan will present seven scholarships. Three of the awards go directly to Seafarers. One of these grants is for $15,000 for use at a four-year institution of higher learning. The other two awards designated specifically for SIU members are $6,000 each for use toward two years of study at a community college or vocational school. The Seafarers Welfare Plan presents the remaining four scholarships to the spouses and dependent children of Seafarers . Each of these stipends is for $15 ,000 foruse at a four-year college or university. I '1' II \ I I a 1996 scholarship is nearing its end. As noted above, scholarships are available to Seafarers (no matter if they sail deep sea, inland or Great Lakes), their spouses and dependent children. . . In order to be ehg1ble, a Seafarer mu.st: 0 be a high school graduate or its equivalent, 0 have a total of 730 days of employment with an employer Who Is Eligible who is obligated to make conWhile the new year is just tributions to the Seafarers Welbeginning, the time to apply for fare Plan on the Seafarer's !II' i'..:' :·; l I · ~ij f!\ " g ~ ,(), · Materials Needed Despite the fact that the April 15 deadline is drawing near, there still is plenty of time to gather the other needed pieces of information. Among the paperwork required of all applicants so they can be considered for a scholarship are: 0 transcripts and certificates of graduation. Some schools are slow in handling transcript requests, so the sooner an applicant seeks copies of his or her transcript, the sooner the scholarship selection committee will receive them. 0 letters of recommendation should be gathered from individuals who have knowledge of the applicant's character, personality and career goals. 0 scores from either the College Entrance Examination Boards (SAT) or American ~ College Tests (ACT) exams, which should be taken no later Wi than this month to be sure that ~ the re~ults reach_ the s~h~larship select1~n comnnttee m time for evaluation. 0 a photograph of the applicant. 0 a certified copy of the while receiving the award, he or applicant's birth certificate. she will not have to forfeit the grant by reason of such marDeadline Nears riage.) The completed applications 0 be a high school graduate MUST be mailed and or its equivalent, although ap- postmarked ON or BEFORE plications may be made during April 15. Because the Welfare thesenioryearofhighschool, Planreceivesmanyapplications and for the grants, it is sometimes 0 be under the age of 19-or very difficult to determine the be under the age of 25 and be a seven recipients for the scholarfull-time student in a program ships. Therefore, all applicants leading to a baccalaureate or should be sure to fill out the higher degree at an accredited scholarship request form as institution authorized by law to thoroughly as possible and progrant such degrees. vide all the requested informaThe following conditions tion by the due date. must be met for either a spouse Those who have previously or dependent child to be con- applied for a _Seafarers Welfare sidered for a scholarship: Plan scholarship and were not 0 the sponsoring Seafarer selected are encouraged to must have credit for 1,095 days apply again this year, provided of covered employment with an they still meet all the requireemployer who is obligated to ments. make contributions to the In order to prepare for the Seafarers Welfare Plan on the future, do not put off until Seafarer's behalf prior to the tomorrow what can be done date of application and today. The time is now to apply 0 the sponsoring Seafarer for a Seafarers Welfare Plan must have one day of employ- scholarship. h Q ul'f'J f10 l.l.ll , -' behalf prior to the date of application, 0 have one day of employment on a vessel in the sixmonth period immediately prior to the date of application, and 0 have 120 days of employmentonavesselintheprevious calendar year. (Pensioners are not eligible for scholarships.) For a spouse to be considered for a scholarship, he or she must: 0 be married to an eligible Seafarer or SIU pensioner and 0 be a high school graduate or its equivalent. For a dependent child to be considered for a grant, he or she must: 0 be an unmarried child of an eligible Seafarer or SIU pensioner for whom the member or pensioner (and his or her spouse) has been the sole source of support during the previous calendar year. (However, should a dependent child win an SIU scholarship and marry r---------- ment in the six-month period preceding the date of application and 120 days of employment in the previous calendar year (unless the eligible parent is deceased). tJ n I • ---------------------, lease send me the 1996 SIU Scholarship Program booklet which contains eligibility information, procedures for applying and a copy of the application form. P City, State, Zip C o d e - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Telephone N u m b e r - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - This application is for: 0 Self L ____ _ 0 Dependent Mail this completed form to Scholarship Program, Seafarers Welfare Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. 2196 I ----------------- - ----------~ �10 SEAFARERS LOG FEBRUARY 1996 d ~· r Safety Remains Top Concern For ITB Baltimore Tankermen From the crystal clear waters of the U.S. Virgin Islands to ports located along the East Coast, 1j rr I : Seafarers aboard the /TB Baltimore take special ~. ij:::: care loading and unloading petroleum products. ~! Iit Safety is a p~me concern for. the _crewmembers • • : '.'i aboard the Shendan Transportation mtergrated tug ~ ' J and barge. Because of the volatile nature of the I 1 cargo, every precaution is taken aboard the Bal_ C timore to make sure there are no problems in load~ ing, transporting or discharging the products. 1 The tug/barge makes the roundtrip between the f.. .· , ·.if·····id . . il! N / .---: V.irgin ~sl~ds and New York in just under 13 days. Lightenng m Stapleton Anchorage takes about 12 hours, while the offloading operations at the terminal involve another 18 hours. The Baltimore is able to hold 360,000. barrels _of refined petroleum products such as gasoline and Jet fuel. When it is not on the New York run, the 691-foot vessel delivers cargo from the refinery in St. Croix to the ports of Port Everglades and Jackson ville, Fla.; Charleston, S.C.; Savannah, Ga. and Baltimore. Maintaining lookout on the /TB Baltimore is AB Anthony Heinholdt. Steward/Baker Walter Hansen prepares lunch for crewmembers aboard the /TB Baltimore. Bosun Joseph Caruso prepares for a deck safety inspection on board the tug/barge. Cleaning up after dinner is the responsibility of Assistant Cook Utility Gerald Hyman. Seattle Seafarers Receive A Shot in the Arm Above, Pensioner Enos ' Ott was first in line to receive his flu shot, adm in i ste red by Lori Faubert at the Seattle hall last November. Taking advantage of a one-day opportunity at the Seattle union hall, more than 50 Seafarers and pensioners received their annual flu shot on November 20. For four years, nurses from the Virginia Mason Clinic in Seattle have come to the union hall to administer the shots that help protect Seafarers from the flu. (The clinic is a Seafarers Welfare Plan preferred Provider health care organization.) Influenza is a highly contagious viral disease marked by respiratory inflammation, fever, muscular pain and often intestinal discomfort. Be- cause Seafarers live in close quarters aboard ships, the vaccine helps contain the infectious disease while at sea. "We offer the shots at the hall as a convenien·ce for the membership," Assistant Vice President Bob Hall told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG. ·'This is the fourth year that we have administered the vaccine from the union hall, and each year we have a good turnout. No one wants to get sick, especially at sea, and this is a way to ensure that our members stay as healthy as possible," said Hall. ...._ Above, AB Ray Nowek (left) and Bosun Dan Seagle sign in at the Seattle hall prior to receiving their flu shots. At left, Steward/Baker Lori F. Smith makes sure she will stay healthy while at sea by getting inoculated against the virus. Checking in at the counter to receive his flu shot is Bosun Charles "Sonny" Herrera. Bosun Bob Wood turns his head as he receives his influenza vaccine. �SEAFARERS LOG FEBRUARY 1996 11 A member of the American Queen hotel staff practices putting out a flammable liquid fire with a fire extinguisher as instructor Byran Cummings looks on. The paddlewheeler is in the background. SIU Safety Training Continues Aboard Delta Queen Riverboats On-site safety and firefighting training will resume this month for Seafarers aboard Delta Queen Steamboat Co. vessels. Presented by instructors from the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, these classes are designed to provide basic information for new crewme m b ers aboard the Delta Queen, Mississippi Queen and American Queen. Other classes are held to provide refresher and updated training to Seafarers who have attended previous sessions. As was done last year, instructors Byran Cummings and Bob Carle will conduct the week-long training sessions with the Seafarers while the vessels ply the Mississippi River and its tributaries. "Each year we advance our curriculum a little more. We have to continue to expand so that the training is not redundant," explained Cummings who, like Carle, has years of experience as a firefighter and paramedic. Many deck and engine department Seafarers regularly sail aboard one or more of the three Delta Queen vessels. This fact allows the instructors to build on the safety program from year to year, Cummings noted. "I cannot overpraise these crews. They really get into the training and are very gracious to us when we board the boats. They are like one big family and treat us as a part of it,'' said Cummings. Each year, the instructors provide training throughout the day and evening, interspersed be- tween regular crew duties and various shifts. Depending on their ratings aboard the riverboats, Seafarers receive anywhere from 15 to 120 hours of instruction during the year, including plenty of hands-on training. "They have to continue to work while we are there and must find time to go through the drills. However, crewmembers are always welcoming us aboard," stated Cummings. ''The fact that our arrival and the training is eagerly anticipated by the crewmembers creates an atmosphere that makes teaching easy and enjoyable," the Lundeberg School instructor noted. new-and our training was more detailed and intense in order to bring them up to the same level as crewmembers aboard the other two boats who have gone through the training several times," noted Cummings. The American Queen, which carries a crew of 170, can accommodate 436 passengers, more than either of the other two vessels. "Live" Rescue Performed Included in the safety training is a session on rescuing people who go overboard from the riverboats. However, the emergency squad (composed of deck and engine department crewmembers) Advanced Training received a slight twist to their In 1995, more than 500 crew- drill. Last spring, Seafarers aboard members aboard the Delta Queen, Mississippi Queen and the Mississippi Queen were tested American Queen took part in by the instructors with a surprise "man overboard" drill. While a classes. The 1995 sessions included dummy is usually used, after getcrewmembers from the new 418- ting permission from the master fo o t American Queen, which of the Mississippi Queen, Cumbegan sailing in June. In Septem- mings decided to simulate the ber, Cummings boarded the emergency situation himself. "I put on a life vest and jumped steamboat and conducted the vessel's first on-site training ses- into the Ohio River and waited to sion while the riverboat was un- see how the crew would react," derway on the Mississippi River. recalled Cummings. ''The chief ''The addition of theAmerican mate and captain, who knew what Queen brought some new chal- was going on, alerted crewmemlenges, but our goals remain the bers of a man overboard, and their same as far as educating and response was outstanding. They training the members is con- did an excellent job coming to my cerned," Cummings told a rescue and there isn't a doubt in reporter for the Seafare rs LOG. my mind that they would respond ''The only change for us is that in much the same way if it were the American Queen has a much an actual emergency," the inlarger crew-many of whom are structor noted. , ,,.~ #fl!:. ( Vast Curriculum Firefighting classes, like the simulation shown above, continue to be an important part of training for riverboat crews. with both children and adults," said Cummings. Crewmembers learn how to report and identify emergencies and how to care for an individual until the shipboard emergency squad arrives. They earn certification or recertification in CPR and first aid by passing practical and written tests. Other aspects of the training that have been implemented in recent years include learning how to identify and contain hazardous materials, learning the aspects of chemical safety, practicing water survival and rescue and more. "Our program just gets better and better each year," Cummings added. Firefighting A Must Because of the construction of the riverboats, which includes plenty of wood, firefighting is constantly provided for the crewmembers. Seafarers use fire hoses and extinguishers and participate in drills using a non-toxic smoke generator which simulates conditions of a shipboard fire. "With the smoke generator, we are able to create an atmosphere very similar to an actual fire. Visibility is severely limited and crewmembers must rely on their other senses just as would happen in the event a fire broke out on board one of the vessels," said Cummings. Also during firefighting training, Seafarers spend time ashore working with various hose lines and other equipment. Damage Control Taught During the damage control classes, SIU members draw a complete "pre-plan" of their respective vessels. The pre-plan marks the exact locations of all cabins, fire-main systems, radios and escape hatches and routes. The members practice making patches which would cover ruptures in various parts of the boats' hulls. Also covered in the damage control section of training, crewmembers pra~tice using life rafts to shuttle other crewmembers (acting as passengers) from the boats to shore. In another drill, crewmembers use a modified breathing apparatus to go underwater, where they identify simulated damage to the hull. "All of the training we provide in our program is very beneficial in that it gives crewmembers a sense of security," stated Cummings. The training program on the Delta Queen vessels began in 1990. At that time, the Lundeberg School staff provided basic firefighting and lifesaving instructions. However, the program was so well received that additional training was added. In 1993, infant, child and adult CPR classes were added to the training program, as well as advanced first aid procedures. "There are more and more families with small children taking cruises on the riverboats. Some Seafarers learn the proper use of underwater breathing equip- Crewmembers need to know how Upcoming sessions on the paddlewheelers will include passenger ment to identify damaged areas on the vessels' hulls. to handle medical emergencies rescue training, as demonstrated by an earlier class. �12 SEAFARERS LOG FEBRUARY 1996 TAX TIPS FOR SEAMEN ., • • • • Presented on these two pages of the Seafarers LOG are handy tax tips that have been prepared especially for mariners. Included are updated telephone numbers and new deduction amounts for 1995 as well as a form for filing extensions and where to get additional information. HOW TO PREPARE A TAX RETIJRN Step 1. Get all records together. • Income Records. These include any Forms W-2, W-2G and 1099. • Itemized deductions and tax credits. Medical and dental payment records. Real estate and personal property tax receipts. Interest payments records for items such as a home mortgage or home equity loan. Records of payments for child care so an individual could work. Step 2. Get any forms, schedules or publications necessary to assist in filing the return. IRS Publication 17 entitled "Your Federal Income Tax for Use in Preparing 1995 Returns" is the most comprehensive guide the agency has issued this year. Most IRS offices and many local banks, post offices and libraries have publications designed to provide individuals with information on correctly filing tax returns. Step 3. Fill in the return. Step 4. Check the return to make sure it is correct. from 50 to 99 cents to the next dollar. For example, $1.39 becomes $1 and $2.50 becomes $3. Step 5. Sign and date the return. Fonn 1040 is not con- Fast Refund: sidered a valid return unless signed. A spouse must also Previously, only taxpayers filing electronically could sign if it is a joint return. get their refunds deposited directly into their bank accounts. As of this year, however, taxpayers will be able Step 6. Attach all required forms and schedules. Attach to fill out Form 8888 to request direct deposit of their the first copy of Copy B of Forms W-2, W-2G and refunds. 1099R to the front of the Form 1040. Attach all other When tax returns are filed electronically, a refund will schedules and forms behind Form 1040 in order of the attachment sequence number. If tax is owed, attach the be received in about 3 weeks, or in 2 weeks if it is depayment to the front of Form 1040 along with Form posited directly into a savings or checking account. For 1040-V (original only). Write name, address, phone a charge, many professional tax return preparers offer number, social security number and form number on electronic filing in addition to their return preparation services. If an individual prepared his or her own return, your check or money order. a preparer or transmitter in their area can file the return electronically. For a list of who can file a tax return Rounding Of/to Whole Dollars: electronically in any given area, call the IRS toll-free Cents may be rounded off to the nearest whole dollar on number, 1-800-829-1040, and ask for the Electronic the tax return and schedules. To do so, raise amounts Filing Office. m WHAT ARE CONSIDERED DEDUCTIONS AND CREDITS Personal Exemption Amount: The deduction for each exemption-for the individual, his or her spouse and dependents has increased to $2,500 per person. In 1995, the exemption deduction for high income taxpayers may be reduced or eliminated if their adjusted gross income exceeds certain threshold amounts. Standard Deducation Has Increased: The standard deduction, or dollar amount that reduces the amount that is taxed, has increased for most people (see box below to the right). Because of this increase, it may be to an individual's benefit to take the standard deduction this year even if that person has itemized deductions in the past. PersonallnterestDeductions: For 1995, personal interest cannot be deducted. Personal interest includes interest on car loans, credit cards and personal loans. Interest on Secured Loans Deductible: Interest paid on mortgages or investments is 100 percent deductible. Union Dues Deduction: Union dues, including working dues, are deductible only if they exceed 2 percent of adjusted gross income. If they do, only the portion over the 2 percent is deductible. SPAD contributions have never been deductible. Deducting Work-Related Expenses: Expenses associated with a seaman's work may be considered tax deductible. However, no expense can be deducted for which a seaman has been reimbursed by the employer. Travel to the union hall to register or travel to the union's designated medical facility to take the required physical and drug tests are examples of expenses which are work-related but not reimbursed by the company. Members of the galley crew may deduct the costs of knives and other equipment they personally own but use when on a ship performing their work duties. The purchase of work-related clothing and other gear, as long as it is truly for work and not paid for by the employer, are likely to be considered tax-deductible. Deducting Work-Related Car Expenses: Use of a personally-owned automobile in work-related travel can result in deductible expenses. Two methods can be used to compute automobile expenses-either listing a standard mileage rate or determining actual cost. On the tax return due April 15 of this year, the IRS is accepting a standard mileage rate of 30 cents per mile. Parking fees and tolls can be added when using the standard mileage rate. If using actual expenses, information must be available on all operating-related costs for the vehicle, including interest, insurance, taxes, licenses, maintenance, repairs, depreciation, gas, oil, tolls and parking. In either the standard mileage rate or the actual cost method of determining car expenses, accurate records should be kept. The IRS recommends keeping a log book or diary listing all expenses related to travel. Only work-rel~ted expenses not reimbursed by an employer can be claimed. Deducting Work-Related Meals When Traveling: Workers in transportation are allowed a special rate on the meal allowance of $32 per day in the continental U.S. and $36 per day outside the continential U.S. Otherwise the IRS standard meal allowance is generally $28. In some locations it is $36, and in Hawaii and Alaska it is computed differently. Travel expenses, including meals, can only be deducted if directly related to one's work and if they have not been reimbursed from any other source. Limit on Itemized Deductions: In 1995, itemized deductions may be limited for individuals earning more than $114, 700 of federal adjusted gross income (or $57 ,350 if married and filing separately). Earned Income Credit: A refundable earned income credit (EIC) is available to certain low income individuals who have earned income and meet certain adjusted gross income thresholds. Effective for tax year 1995, an individual does not have to have a qualifying child to be eligible for this credit if certain conditions are met. Different credit percentages and phase-out percentages are provided based on the taxpayer's income level and the number of qualifying children eligible, if any. The maximum credit allowed is as follows: Taxpayers with income less than $9,230 and no qualifying children - $314 maximum credit; taxpayers with income less than $24,396 and with 1 qualifying child - $2,094 maximum credit; taxpayers with income less than $26,673 and with 2 or more qualifying children $3, 110 maximum credit. If the earned income credit reduces the income tax liability below zero, a refund will be granted by the IRS. Taxpayers should use form 1040, schedule EIC to see if they are eligible for the credit. Dependent's Social Security Number: Each dependent must have a social security number (SSN) unless the dependent was born in November or December of 1995. An individual may get an SSN for their dependent by filing Form SS-5 with their local Social Security Administration office. It usually takes about two weeks to receive an SSN. WHICH RECORDS TO KEEP Keep records of income (such as receipts), ded ucti ons (for example, canceled checks) and credits shown on the tax return, as well as any worksheets used to figure them, until the statute of limitations runs out for that return, usually 3 years from the date the return was due or filed, or 2 years from the date the tax was paid, whichever is later. However, it is recommended that all records be kept for about 6 years. Change of Address: If an individual has changed his or her address from the one listed on that person's last tax return, IRS Form 8822 should be filJed out and filed with the agency. Death ofa Taxpayer: If a taxpayer died before filing a required return for 1995, the taxpayer's personal representative (and spouse, in the case of a joint return) must file and sign the return for that person. A personal representative can be an executor, administrator or anyone who is in charge of the taxpayer's property. WHAT TO DO WHEN OVERSEAS AT TAX TIME Should a seaman find himself or herself overseas and seeking IRS forms or IRS assistance, U.S. embassies and consulates are equipped to provide some taxpayer-related services. At a minimum, IRS forms are available at all U.S. embassies and consulates. The U.S. embassies and consulates located in the following cities can provide IRS assistance: Bonn, Germany; Caracas, Venezuela; London, England; Mexico City, Mexico; Nassau, Bahamas; Ottawa, Canada; Paris, France; Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; Rome, Italy; Sao Paulo, Brazil; Sydney, Australia; and Tokyo, Japan. WHERETO GET INFORMATION General Information: 1-800-829-1040 can be called for general information. IRS staff answer questions from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Publications: 1-800-829-3676 operators will take orders for publications. "#17 Your Federal Income Tax" and "#552 Record Keeping for Individuals" are two publications that many people find especially useful. Walk-In Help: IRS representatives are available in many IRS offices around the country to help with tax questions that cannot be answered easily by telephone. To find the location of an IRS office, look in the phone book under "United States Government, Internal Revenue Service." Telephone Help: The IRS is prepared to answer questions by phone. Through the agency's taxpayer information service, publications covering all aspects of tax-filing can be ordered. The federal Tele-Tax system has recorded tax information covering about 150 topics. 1-800-829-4477 is the IRS's automated Tele-Tax system. When calling from a touch tone phone, the letter "R" or number "7" will repeat the topic and the letter "C" or number "2" will cancel the message. To listen to a directory of topics after the introductory message finishes, dial 123. This telephone service is available from 7:00 a.m. until 11:30 p.m. Send IRS Written Questions: Written questions regarding the tax returns can be sent directly to an IRS District Director (listed on the tax form). Include a social security number with the letter. STANDARD DEDUCTION This is the standard deduction chart for most people. If a taxpayer is 65 or older or blind, there are additional standard deductions. (Note that the personal exemption deduction is $2,500.) Filing Status Single . Married filing joint return or Qualifying widow( er) with dependent children . Married filing separate return . . Head of household Standard Deduction . .. $3,900 . $6,550 . $3,275 . . $5,750 �SEAFARERS LOG FEBRUARY 1996 - ~~~~- HOW TO FILE AN EXTENSION IRS Form 4868 can be used to ask for a fourmonth extension to file IRS Form 1040A or Form 1040. An individual requesting an extension is under no obligation to explain why the additional time is needed. Filing of the form gives an individual until August 15, 1996 to file his or her 1995 federal tax return. The IRS will contact the individual directly only if the request for an extension is denied. To extend the period of time in which one can file his or her tax return, that individual must correctly fill out Form 4868 and pay all of the tax monies due (as noted on line 6c of the form). If the filing of Form 4868 and the subsequent four-month extension to file does not provide the individual with enough time, he or she can then file Form 2688, known as "Application for Additional Extension of Time to File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return." Another option open to the person seeking more time in which to file is to write a letter to the IRS stating the reason the REPORT In addition to wages, salaries, tips, unemployment compensation, capital gains, dividend payments and other income listed on the federal tax return, the following kinds of income must be reported. • Jones Act settlements for lost wages. • Amounts received in place of wages from accident and health plans (including sick pay and disability pensions) if employer paid for the policy. • Life insurance proceeds from a policy cashed in if the proceeds are more than the premium paid. • Profits from corporations, partnerships, estates and trusts. • Endowments. • Original Issue Discount. • Distributions from selfemployed plans. • Bartering income (fairmarket value of goods or services received in return for services). • Tier 2 and supplemental annuities under the Railroad Retirement Act. • Lump-sum distributions. • Gains from the sale or exchange (including barter) of real estate, securities, coins, gold, silver, gems or other property (capital gains). • Accumulation distributions from trusts. • Prizes and awards (contests, raffles, lottery and gambling winnings). • Earned income from sources outside the United States. • Director's fees. • Fees received as an executor or administrator of an estate. • Embezzled or other illegal income. Hii~or UBE REPORTED The foJlowing kinds of income do not need to be reported on the federal tax return: • Benefits from government welfare programs. • Jones Act settlements for injuries, pain, suffering, medical costs. • Maintenance and Cure. • Workers' compensation benefits, insurance damages, etc. for injury or sickness. • Disability retirement payments (and other benefits) paid by the Veterans' Administration. • Child support. • Gifts, money or other property inherited or willed. • Dividends on veterans' life insurance. • Life insurance proceeds received because of a person's death. • Amounts received from insurance because of loss of the use of a home due to fire or other casualty to the extent the amounts were more than the cost of normal expenses while living in the home. • Certain amounts received as a scholarship. 13 4868 Form Department of the Treasury Internal Revenue Service 1 extension is necessary. An individual seeking an extension is advised by the IRS to file Form 4868 before filing Form 2688. Below is Form 4868 which may be used by Seafarers to file for an extension. This form will be recognized by the IRS. Additional copies of Form 4868 are available by calling the agency's toll-free number which is dedicated to tax form requests. That number is 1-800-829-3676. Also, Form 4868 is available from all main IRS branch offices. And if a Seafarer finds himself or herself overseas, he or she can obtain the form from anyU.S. embassy or consulate. It is important to bear in mind that the filing of Form 4868 requesting an extension does not get one off the hook from having to pay any taxes due. Form 4868, when sent in, must be accompanied by all tax monies due the U.S. government from the individual filing the extension. The deadline for filing the form and the taxes due is April 15. Application for Automatic Extension of Time To File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return OMS No. 1545-0188 ~®95 Your name(s) (see instructions) 2a Amount dueAdd lines 6c, d, Address (see instructions) 3 Your social security number : City, town or post office, state, and ZIP code 4 Spouse's social security no. and e . ~ $ b Amount you are paying ~ $ 5 I request an automatic 4-month extension of time to August 15, 1996, to file my individual tax return for the calendar year , 19 , for the fiscal tax year ending , 19 1995 or to 6 Individual Income Tax-See instructions. a Total tax liability for 1995 . . . b Total payments for 1995. . . . c Balance due. Subtract 6b from 6a Gift or GST Tax Retum(s}-See instructions. Check here ONLY if filing a gift or GST } Yourself ..,.. 0 tax return . . . . . . . . . Spouse ..,.. 0 d Amount of gift or GST tax you are paying $ _ _ _ _ _ __ e Your spouse's gift/GST tax payment $ $ $ $ Under penalties of perjury, I declare that I have examined this form, including accompanying schedules ana statements. and to the best of my know1edge and belief, it is true, correct, and complete; and. if prepared by someone other than the taxpayer, that I am authorizeo to preoare this form. ~ ~ Your signature ~ Date Spouse's signature. 1f filing jointly Date Preparer's signature (other than taxpayer) ll Date WHY SEAFARERS MUST PAY STATE INCOME TAX The law prohibits employers from withholding state and local taxes from the wages of seamen working aboard U.S.-flag ships. Specifically, the law (46 USCA 11108(11)] provides that "no part of the wages due or accruing to a master, officer or any other seaman who is a member of the crew on a vessel engaged in the foreign, coastwise, intercoastal, interstate or noncontiguous trade shall be withheld pursuant to the provisions of the tax laws of any state, territory, possession or commonwealth, or a subdivision of any of them, but nothing in this section shall prohibit any such withholding of the wages of any seaman who is employed in the coastwise trade between ports in the same state if such withholding is pursuant to a voluntary agreement between such seaman and his employer." The law, however, does not exempt seamen from paying state and local taxes. Aseaman,justlikeanyothercitizenofany given state, must meet his or herobligations to the government of the area in which he or she lives. Each state has a set of criteria to determine whether an individual is a resident of that state. A seaman should check with a state tax office if he or she is unsure as to his residency status. For example, in California during the early 1970s, a case before the California State Board of Equalization stated that a merchant seaman--despite the fact that he was on a ship for210 days of the year-was a resident of the state for tax purposes. The board took into consideration the fact that the seaman owned a home in California and maintained a bank account in a Califomiabased bank. Additionally, each state has established conditions under which non-residents of that state must pay a portion of state tax if such an individual earned income from a source based in that state. Many states allow a credit in the amount an individual must pay the state if that person has already paid taxes in another state. If any questions arise regarding residency and state tax issues, seamen should telephone the office in the state in which they reside (see chart below). WHERE TO GET ADDITIONAL STATE INCOME TAX INFORMATION STATE LOCAUTOLL·FREE # Alabama . . . . . . . (334) 242-26n Alaska . . . . . . . . {907) 465-2320 Arizona ........ (602) 255-3381 Phoenix (602) 628-6421 rucson *(800) 352-4090 Arkansas ....... (501)682-1100 (800) 882-9275 California ....... **(916) 854-6500 (Bbo) 852-5711 Colorado . . . . . . . (303) 534-1209 Connecticut . . . . . i203) 566-8520 (800) 382-9463 Delaware . . . . . . . 1302) 5n-3300 (800) 292-7826 District of Columbia . (202) 727-6103 (202) 727-6104 Florida ........ {904) 488-6800 (800) 352-3671 Georgia ........ {404) 656-4071 (800) 338-2389 Hawaii ........ (808) 587-6515 (800) 222-3229 Idaho . . . . . . . . . 1208) 334-3660 {800) 972-7660 ~; lllin.ois . . . . . . . . (217) 782-3336 Indiana ........ (317) 232-2240 Iowa ......... {515)281-3114 (800) 367-3388 Kansas . . . . . . . . (913) 296-0222 North Carolina . . . . {91 733-4682 North Dakota . . . . (701) 328-3450 (800)638-2901 Ohio ......... {614) 846-6712 {800) 282-1780 Kentucky ....... (502) 564-4580 Oklahoma · · · · · · i(g86)5l~2~J{3 Lo~isiana ...... (504) 925-4611 Maine . . . . . . . . {20J6 626-8475 (8 ) n3-7895 Oregon . . . . . . . {503) 378-4988 (800) 356-4222 Pennsylvania .... (717) 783-1405 Rhode Island . . . . (401) 2n-2905 Maryland · · · · · · · 1(J86)9J:S~~~J i 7 Massachusetts . . . . 617) 727•4545 (800) 392-6089 Michigan ....... (800)487-7000 . Minnesota ...... (612) 296-3781 (800) 652-9094 Mississippi . . . . . . (601) 359-1141 . . Missouri ....... (314) 751-7191 Montana . . . . . . . (406) 444. 2837 Nebraska · · · · · · ~~~~ ~~J~~~~~ 5 South Carolina . . . (800) 763-1295 South Dakota .... (605) 773-5141 Tennessee ..... (615) 741-2594 (800) 342-1003 Texas . . . . . . . . (800) 252-5555 Utah . . . . . . . . . (801) 297-2200 (800) 662-4335 Vermont . . . . . . . (802) 828-2865 Virginia ....... (804) 367-8031 Washington ..... (360) 786-6100 Nevada ....... (702) 687-4892 West Virginia . . . . ifgri6)5~:2~li1 New Hampshire ... (603) 271-2191 New Jersey . . . . . 1609) 588-2200 1(800} 323-4400 Wisconsin . . . . . . (608) 266-2486 wyommg · · · · · · · {307) m -7952 New Mexico ..... (505) 827-0700 New York ...... 1518) 438-8581 (800) 443-3200 *within state only ...outside of U.S. Note: states listed in italics do not require state income taxes be paid of their residents. -- �14 SEAFARERS LOG FEBRUARY 1996 Shipboard Band Boosts Morale on Sea Wolf Following days of rough seas, high winds and heavy rain-brought on by the aftermath of Hurricane Luis-Seafarers aboard the Sea Wolf were treated to several hours of music and fellowship by three multi-talented crewmembers who put on a musical jam session aboard the vessel. In a letter to the Seafarers LOG, Chief Cook Joey Gallo detailed a Sunday afternoon in September when crewmembers gathered to witness the musical talents of QMED Greg Eastwood, QMED Bob Ott and DEU Tommy Brooks, who assembled their respective instruments and performed for several hours in the crew lounge. Gallo noted that the trio affectionately became known to their shipmates as "The Black Gang Band." "The weather had been pretty rough for a few days, and all of our shipboard activities were downsized as we waited for the storm's effects to pass. The weather put us all on edge," stated Gallo, who is currently attending steward upgrading classes at the Lundeberg School. According to Gallo, as soon as the bad weather had cleared, Captain Ed Sica and Chief Engineer Dave Roy asked the trio to perform. He organized an entire afternoon for crewmembers to relax and enjoy each others company. "The guys were excited to be asked to play, and what followed was a wonderful time for all," reported Gallo. While each musician claims his own musical style, the three united to play country, blues and rock-and-roll songs as well as several requested originals. Eastwood, who was featured in the November 1993 issue of the Seafarers LOG, is recording an album during his shoretime. The Philadelphia native plays the guitar and writes his own lyrics to country and pop music. Reports from his shipmates have noted that Eastwood's music is popular aboard the vessel. Many times crewmembers have asked him to play. Some have even provided ideas for new songs. "A favorite of many of the crewmembers is Greg's song 'America.' He wrote and composed it himself, and he brought down the house with the ballad. The crew is in accord that this song should be one of inspiration for our nation and for the future of the United States merchant fleet," recalled Gallo. Ott, who also sails from the port of Philadelphia, entertained the Sea Wolf crew with his rendition of rock-and-roll and rhythm-and-blues tunes. Brooks joined Ott, and the two engine department members thrilled crewmembers with several harmonica and acoustic guitar duets. "The session was a great success in inspiring a renewed sense of camaraderie among the licensed and unlicensed members of the crew. The crew has expressed special thanks to the captain and chief engineer for initiating a day well-enjoyed by all," Gallo said. Following the musical session, galley gang members Gallo, Chief Steward Phil Paquette and SA Mike Bonsignore 1--"f"' , 8. tf l~ · Members of the Sea Wolf's "Black Gang Band" are (from left), QMED Bob Ott, QMED Greg Eastwood and DEU Tommy Brooks. - - - - - -- - - - - - - - - - prepared a special dinner for the mariners. and the east coast of the U.S. Maintaining high morale among crew"Greg, Bob and Tommy, together with members while at sea is important, said the officers and other SIU crewmembers Gal1o, who recently signed off the Sea aboard the Sea Wolf, embody the best that Wolf. shipboard life offers. The most important The chief cook noted that crewmem- virtue they represent is one of fellowship, bers aboard the Crowley vessel make con- and that is the essence of the credo 'The stant efforts to enjoy their non-working Brotherhood of the Sea,"' concluded time while sailing between South America Gallo. Sea-Land Crew Accepts Challenge Of Transferring Ship to West Coast From exotic Caribbean waters to the warmth of the Aloha State, Seafarers aboard the Sea-Land Challenger are ready for any new assignment and challenge that may come their way. According to AB Kevin Gatling, who sent a letter and the accompanying photos to the Seafarers LOG, the ship recently was transfered from an Atlantic-Caribbean run to a West Coast assignment. The 700-foot Challenger and its sister ship, the Sea-Land Discovery, are now sailing between the West Coast ports of Oakland and Long Beach, Calif. and Honolulu. Preparing a hearty breakfast for Sea-Land Cha/lengercrewmembers The two Sea-Land Service containerships are Chief Steward Jimmy Harper (left) and Chief Cook Pedro formerly sailed the 28-day "Crescent Run" between Rodriguez. East Coast ports and Kingston, Jamacia; Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic; and San Juan, P.R. "With the responsible leadership of Captain Paul For Starters on the SL Developer Skoropowski and the finest SIU crew ever as-··-~-~-~~--.--~ sembled, the change of schedule has been handled with extreme professionalism," noted Gatling . .;;C: It talces the Challenger 24-hours to sail from the port of Oakland to Long Beach. It then takes the vessel about 5 days to sail to Hawaii where cargo operations are completed in roughly two days. Gatling noted that the return trip to Oakland is a slightly shorter voyage, being completed in just four and a half days. The AB added that the containership' s new route is much shorter than the Crescent Run and the vessel is able to get into and out of the ports much faster. "However, one thing remains the same. The Sea-Land Challenger and her crew continues to pursue perfection," Gatling concluded. . '' l j - An attractively laid out tray of hors d'oeuvres was one of many festive platters created by the steward department onboard the Sea-Land Developer during the holiday season. From the left are Chief Stewad Scott Opsahl, Chief Cook Don Flunker and Steward Assistant Thomas Currey. The Sea-Land Challenger offloads cargo in the containership's newly assigned port of Honolulu. Relaxing in the crew lounge at the end of a shift are (from left) Engine/Utility Plese Russ 111, Oiler Marshall Sanford, AB Michael Ortiz and Chief Steward Jimmy Harper. �SEAFARERS LOG FEBRUARY 1996 March &April 1996 Membership Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, Inland Waters Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea DECEMBER 16, 1995 -JANUARY 15, 1996 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Port New York 33 Philadelphia 0 BalJimore 9 Norfolk 9 Mobile 13 New Orleans 20 Jackson ville 24 San Francisco 28 Wilmington 20 26 Seattle Puerto Rico 15 Honolulu 6 27 Houston 2 St. Louis Piney Point l Algonac 1 234 Totals 16 5 7 5 7 26 14 14 20 13 4 16 19 0 1 2 169 4 1 0 3 1 1 3 1 3 1 1 2 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Cla~ C DECK DEPARTMENT 17 19 3 1 3 1 8 8 9 17 26 20 16 19 6 3 21 1 2 6 0 9 11 20 0 20 15 14 14 2 13 24 0 3 5 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 4 3 0 0 0 23 174 174 17 2 0 0 Trip Reliefs **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Cla~ B Class C 12 64 0 4 4 3 10 23 18 38 2 5 7 6 7 50 41 33 42 19 10 8 3 3 12 0 0 0 2 73 399 44 1 1 33 5 7 14 21 39 26 30 29 29 7 19 29 0 3 Piney Point Monday: March 4, April 8 New York Tuesday: March 5, April 9 8 1 0 6 1 3 7 3 5 1 3 7 8 0 3 0 1 294 54 15 Philadelphia Wednesday: March 6, April 10 Baltimore Thursday: March 7, April 11 Norfolk Thursday: March 7, April 11 Jacksonville Thursday: March 7. April 11 Algonac Friday: March 8, April 12 Houston Monday: March 11, April 15 New Orleans Tuesday: March 12, April 16 Mobile Wednesday: March 13, April 17 San Francisco Port New York 17 l Philadelphia Baltimore 2 Norfolk 7 8 Mobile New Orleans 6 Jacksonville 14 San Francisco 12 Wilmington 6 12 Seattle Puerto Rico 5 Honolulu I Houston 10 l St. Louis Piney Point 2 Algonac I 105 Totals Port New York 14 Philadelphia l 4 Baltimore 4 Norfolk 4 Mobile New Orleans 13 Jacksonville 9 San Francisco 20 14 Wilmington 16 Seattle Puerto Rico 4 Honolulu 9 Houston 5 0 St. Louis Piney Point 3 Algonac 0 120 Totals Port 4 New York Philadelphia 1 Baltimore 0 0 Norfolk 4 Mobile New Orleans 3 Jacksonville 3 San Francisco 12 Wilmington 6 Seatt]e 6 Puerto Rico 3 Honolulu 10 2 Houston St. Louis 0 Piney Point 0 Algonac 0 54 Totals Totals All De~artments 513 13 2 11 6 3 11 14 15 10 12 5 14 14 2 0 1 0 0 0 2 0 1 2 0 0 3 5 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 7 11 0 3 1 2 8 0 1 6 3 7 5 0 2 10 5 1 15 15 0 8 8 2 8 6 3 15 0 0 0 0 3 0 133 15 89 1 l 4 11 4 12 10 4 1 0 0 3 2 2 0 0 0 0 109 10 Thursday: March 14, April 18 4 29 31 2 0 1 0 l 5 9 7 15 0 0 l 4 1 0 1 0 2 0 2 0 1 5 0 4 5 7 1 0 0 36 196 219 30 28 13 2 2 13 0 1 0 1 1 9 3 0 8 1 3 5 0 8 13 17 24 22 15 28 9 26 23 19 16 17 6 15 10 4 17 20 1 2 Wilmington Monday: March 18, April 22 Seattle Friday: March 22, April 26 San Juan Thursday: March 7, April 11 St. Louis Friday: March 15, April 19 Honolulu Friday: March 15, April 19 Duluth Wednesday: March 13, April 17 Jersey City Wednesday: March20, April 24 New Bedford Tuesday: March 19, April 23 Each port's meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. STEWARD DEPARTMENT 8 I 2 5 5 10 8 7 8 6 4 14 3 0 1 0 82 29 1 3 12 11 11 16 11 0 3 5 0 9 1 2 0 0 0 1 1 4 6 9 3 4 3 1 0 0 1 3 1 9 9 0 1 0 0 12 7 11 5 12 4 2 10 4 7 14 11 21 52 23 37 0 1 0 0 0 0 7 0 0 0 0 10 4 0 0 5 17 14 3 35 2 10 6 6 6 1 3 75 5 1 0 0 11 1 0 10 11 0 3 5 0 1 3 0 1 0 0 11 0 0 0 0 0 0 101 61 17 1 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 2 20 4 0 0 0 4 0 0 9 9 0 1 8 1 5 4 9 17 9 1 1 12 3 4 2 9 14 0 6 2 6 1 45 80 6 1 8 0 1 0 0 1 0 6 6 2 2 9 1 9 5 0 0 0 48 0 0 0 0 0 0 9 18 14 1 4 0 244 15 2 1 2 3 10 5 5 1 13 7 13 8 3 4 15 10 3 11 2 0 0 2 0 1 0 111 27 57 2 2 20 24 27 28 30 31 18 6 53 18 15 0 4 19 2 18 8 13 10 6 7 89 7 2 1 1 1 1 4 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 185 119 32 168 111 0 104 340 200 569 167 396 512 155 157 943 964 311 21 12 13 7 10 3 0 0 0 20 2 0 * "Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. ** "Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. Personals 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 15 I ALBERTO CRUZ Please contact your sister-in-law, Ruth Ruditha Amoradie, at 6 Sperrago Street, San Jacinto Massbate, Philippines. MICHAELANTHONYJOHNSON Please call Judy Johnson at (334) 457-0732. RAYMAGNESON Please contact Megan Carroll at 1751 Rohr Road, Lockbourn, OH 43137. GEORGE B. McCURLEY Please contact Gene T. Lachapelle at P.O. Box 208, Big Bay, Ml 49808; or telephone (906) 345-9549. MICHAEL SANTANA Please contact your sister, Arleen Santana, at Edificio42, Apt. D, Bayamon Country Club, Bayamon, PR 00957; or telephone (809) 279-1721. ~ YourSPAD contribution helps keep Congress informed OHhe neeck of Maritime �16 SEAFARERS LOG FEBRUARY 1996 Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes Seafarers International Union Directory DECEMBER 16, 1995 - JANUARY 15, 1996 CL-Company/Lakes L-Lakes NP-Non Priority Michael Sacco President *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP John Fay Secretary-Treasurer TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP Joseph Sacco Executive Vice President Augustin Tellez Vice President Contracts George McCartney Vice President West Coast Roy A. "Buck" Mercer Vice President Government Services Jack Caffey Vice President Atlantic Coast Byron Kelley Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters DeanCorgey Vice President Gulf Coast HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St Clair River Dr. Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 BALTIMORE 1216 E. Baltimore St. Baltimore, MD 21202 (410) 327-4900 DULUTH 705 Medical Arts Building Duluth, MN 55802 (2 L8) 722-4110 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St. Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St. Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St. Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JERSEY CITY 99 Montgomery St. Jersey City, NJ 07302 (201) 435-9424 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy. Mobile, AL 36605 (334) 478-0916 NEW BEDFORD 48 Union St. New Bedford, MA 02740 (508) 997-5404 NEW ORLEANS 630 Jackson Ave. New Orleans, LA 70130 (504) 529-7546 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St. Norfolk, VA 23510 (804) 622-1892 PIDLADELPHIA 2604 S. 4St. Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75 Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave. Ft Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St. San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Government Services Division (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 161.h Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac 0 21 1 0 4 0 0 3 0 0 16 6 DECK DEPARTMENT 0 13 3 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 7 2 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 8 3 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 0 31 7 0 14 3 0 3 1 0 27 23 44 Totals All Departments 0 7 28 8 0 0 75 * "Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. **"Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. 34 Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters DECEMBER 16, 1995 - JANUARY 15, 1996 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals 4 1 43 2 0 2 9 1 0 5 0 4 50 12 9 3 1 0 14 0 1 0 0 2 8 0 14 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 8 0 9 2 0 0 3 0 7 10 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A ClassB Class C DECK DEPARTMENT 5 0 0 1 10 25 1 1 0 1 0 0 41 2 1 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 1 0 0 1 0 1 1 0 0 1 0 0 4 0 1 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 l 0 0 0 0 0 l 1 0 1 1 1 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 13 2 0 2 32 2 13 10 12 3 59 20 37 47 0 2 1 4 0 0 1 8 0 14 10 6 2 0 11 0 0 0 2 0 2 0 4 0 11 13 Totals All Departments 73 21 46 32 13 3 3 86 * "Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. **"Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. 1 15 19 72 Are You Missing Important Mail? In order to ensure that each active SIU member and pensioner receives a copy of the Seafarers LOG each month-as well as other important mail such as W-2 forms, pension and health insurance checks and bulletins or notices-a correct home address must be on file with the union. If you have moved recently or feel that you are not getting your union mail, please use the form on this page to update your home address. Your home address is your permanent address, and this is where all official union documents will be mailed (unless otherwise specified). If you are getting more than one copy of the LOG delivered to you, if you have changed your address, or if your name or address is misprinted or incomplete, please complete the form and send it to: Seafarers International Union Address Correction Department 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 r------------------------------------------------------------, HOME ADDRESS FORM {PLEASE PRINT} 2/96 Name Phone No. ( ) Santurce, PR 00907 (809) 721-4033 SEATTLE 2505 First Ave. Seattle, WA 98121 (206) 441-1960 Social Security No. ____ / _ _ _ / _ _ __ Book No. _ _ _ _ _ _ __ ST.LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave. St Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave. Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 D Active SIU D Pensioner D Other This will be my permanent address for all official union mailings. This address should remain in the union Ji.Le unless otherwise changed by me personally. ----------------------------------------------------------- _J �SEAFARERS LOG FEBRUARY 1996 17 Welcome Ashore ' T hree recertified bosuns are among the 24 Seafarers who are announcing their retirements this month. With a combined 92 years of experience at sea, the trio of John B. Noble, Alvie S. Rushing and Arlond E. Weaver all graduated bosun recertification classes at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. This course offers the highest level of training for deck department members of the SIU. Including the three bosuns, 16 of those signing off shipped in the deep sea division. Six others sailed on inland waterways vessels and two worked on Great Lakes ships. Fourteen of the retiring merchant mariners served in the U.S. military-six in the Army, three in the Navy, three in the Air Force and two in the Coast Guard. On this page, the Seafarers LOG presents brief biographical accounts of these 24 pensioners. DEEP SEA JOHNJ. ASHLEY, 65,began sailing with the Seafarers in 1964 from the port of New York. Brother Ashley shipped in the engine department, last sailing as an electrician. He upgraded frequently at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. Born in New York, Brother Ashley now makes his home in Texas. MARTIN BALAGTAS, 76, joined the SIU in 1973 in the port of San Francisco. Sailing in the engine department, he upgraded his skills at the Lundeberg School. Born in the Philippine Islands, Brother Balagtas now resides in California. JUAN I. GONZALEZ, 55, graduated from the Andrew Furuseth Training School in 1963 and joined the Seafarers in the port of New Orleans. Brother Gonzalez sailed in both the engine and steward departments and upgraded in the engine department to QMED at the Lundeberg School. Born in Puerto Rico, ne presently resides in Louisiana. CAREY V. HAYWOOD, 65, started his career with the SIU in 1951 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Sailing in the deck department, the Virginia native last shipped in 1992 aboard the Flickertail State, operated by Interocean Management. From 1948 to 1952, he served in the U.S. Air Force. Brother Haywood has retired to his native Virginia. · WILLIAM D.HOLMES,56, joined the Seafarers in 1974 in the port of Philadelphia. He sailed as a member of the deck department. Brother Holmes served as a union official for nine years in the port of Philadelphia, from 1976 to 1985. The New Jersey native returned to sea and last worked for Crowley Maritime in March 1995. From 1955 to 1958, he served in the U.S. Army. Brother Holmes continues to live in New Jersey. r.:::=:::===----:----::--i WALTER G.KAULBACK,69, began his career with the SIU in 1978 in the port ofNori..======::...i folk, Va. following 31 years of service in the U.S. Navy. The Pennsylvania native sailed as a member of the deck department. Brother Kaulback presently makes his home in Alabama. DOUGLAS R.LAUGHLIN, 62, started his career with the Seafarers in 1969 in the port of Hous- ._____ _ _ ____, ton. The Mississippi native sailed in the engine department and upgraded frequently at the Lundeberg School. From 1950 to 1953, he served in the U.S. Air Force. Brother Laughlin has retired to Florida. HENRYM. NOEL,63, joined the Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S)in 1968, before that union merged with the SIU's Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District (AGLIWD). Brother Noel last shipped in September 1992 aboard the Maui. operated by Matson Navigation. Brother Noel sailed during Operation Desert Shield/Desert Stonn. He served Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. in the U.S. Air Force from 1951 to 1953. Brother Noel makes his home in California. HARRY E. MESSICK, 63, began sailing with the SIU in 1951 from the port of Baltimore. Brother Messick was a member of the engine department and worked his way up to chief electrician. He last sailed aboard the Sea-Land Crusader in August 1995. The New Jersey native also sailed in the steward and deck departments. Brother Messick presently resides in Florida. JOHNB. NOBLE, 63,joined the Seafarers in 1967 in the port of New York. As a member of the deck department, the New York native upgraded at the Lundeberg School and completed the bosun recertification course there in 1989. From 1952 to 1956, he served in the U.S. Coast Guard. Brother Noble presently lives in Alaska. , ALVIES. RUSHING, 65, graduated from the Andrew Furuseth Training School in 1959 and began his career with the SIU in the port of Houston. The Texas native sailed in the deck department. Brother Rushing upgraded frequently at the Lundeberg School and completed the bosun recertification course there in 1981. From 1948 to 1952, he served in the U.S. Navy. Brother Rushing calls Texas home. MANFRED SCHAUB, 62,joined theMC&S in the 1960s in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU' s AGLIWD. Brother Schaub has retired to California. - -==-__J FRANCIS ff.SMITH, 72,began his career with the Seafarers in 1966 in the port of Houston. Brother Smith sailed in all three departments: engine, deck and steward. He settled on sailing in the engine department. He upgraded his engineering skills at the Lundeberg School. From 1950 to 1953, he served in the U.S. Anny. Brother Smith continues to Ii ve in his home state of I Pennsylvania. GEORGE w. THAYER, 72,joined the SIU in 1952 in the port of Mobile, Ala. and sailed as a member of the steward department. From 1941to1942, he served in the U.S. Army. Born in Connecticut, Brother Thayer presently lives in the state of Washington. ARLOND E. WEAVER, 65, started his career with the Seafarers in 1965 in the port of Jackson ville, Fla. Sailing in the deck department, the Georgia native upgraded at the Lundeberg School and graduated from the bosun recertification course there in 1976. Brother Weaver now makes his home in Florida. CLARENCE C. WILLEY,61, began sailing with the SIU in 1959 from the port of Norfolk, Va. The Virginia native sailed as a member of the steward department. Brother Willey continues to live in Virginia. leans. The Alabama native sailed as a member of the deck department. From 1951 to 1956, he served in the U.S. Army. Boatman Jarman continues to live in Alabama. ERNEST E.GIBBS JR., 69, joined the Seafarers in 1977 in the port of Houston. The ~------' steward department member sailed primarily on vessels operated by Sheridan Companies. From 1944 to 1946, he served in the U.S. Navy. Born in Alabama, Boatman Gibbs presently resides in Florida. RICHARD J. KESTLER, 62, started his career with the Seafarers in 1965 in the port of Baltimore. Sailing in the deck department, the Maryland native held the rating of master and first class pilot. From 1954 to 1956, he served in the U.S. Army. Boatman Kestler has retired to his native Maryland. JOSEPHR. WILLARD,62, joined the SIU in 1962 in the port of Toledo, Ohio. Born in Ohio, Boatman Willard sailed as a member of the deck department. From 1952 to 1954, he served in the U.S. Army. Boatman Willard still calls Ohio home. ' - -- INLAND ROBERT D.BASNETT JR., 62,joined the Seafarers in 1972 in the port of Norfolk, Va. after serving 20 years in the U.S. Coast Guard. Licensed as a chief engineer, the North Carolina native sailed in the engine department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. Boatman Basnett still calls North Carolina home. MARTIN J.CHAMBERS,62, started his career with the SIU in 1961 in the port of Cleveland. Born in North Carolina, he sailed as a member of the deck department. Boatman Chambers has retfred to his native North Carolina. BRYANT JARMAN, 62, began sailing with the SIU in 1984 in the port of New Or- -----J GREAT LAKES ALIB. FITAHEY, 69,began sailing with the Seafarers in 1965 from the port of Detroit. Brother Fitahey shipped as a member of the deck department. Born in Arabia, he became a U.S. citizen and presently makes his home in Michigan. I WILLIAM J. TAYLOR, 62, started his career with the SIU in 1957 in the port of l - - - - " " " - - " " = - - - - ' Buffalo. The New York native sailed as a member of the deck department. Brother Taylor continues tolive in New York. - �! 18 SEAFARERS LOG FEBRUARY 1996 Meinories of St. Patrick's .Day by Henri B. Starckx Editor's Note: Brother Starckx joined the SIU in 1943 and participated in the invasion of Europe on June 6, 1944. He arrived at Omaha Beach, one of five beaches taken by U.S., British and Canadian forces, a day after the initial assault. On November 1, 1995, Brother Starckx joined a group of WWII veterans in helping bury a time capsule (containing memorabilia from WWII) in Port St. Lucie, Fla. The capsule will be opened in November 2045. The creative works of SIU pensioners and their thoughts will appear from time to time In the Seafarers LOG. The newspaper welcomes submissions from retired Seafarers and their families. Articles, letters, drawings, photos and cartoons maybe sent to the LOG for publication. Every St. Patrick's Day brings back unforgettable memories because of what happened tome on that day, March 17, in 1943. I was a merchant seaman, and at 1:00 in the morning, while I was steering a ship in convoy in the North Atlantic, German submarines torpedoed and sank four ships. Later, at 12 noon, a tremendous explosion shook my ship . We were hit by a torpedo. My lifeboat was smashed while launch- ing. The other lifeboat capsized while getting away from the ship, spilling everyone into the ·1.0-degree water. The captain told me to launch the life rafts on the fore deck, which I did. The ship was sinking fast; the main deck was now level with the sea. A fire started in one hold which was loaded with gasoline in barrels. It was time to go. I boarded a raft with two men and cast off. We drifted away while the ship went down with the bow and stem in the air like a huge V. A few hours later, a British warship, the HMS Lavender, arrived and picked up survivors. About4:00 p.m. we set off, leaving death and destruction behind. At 10:00 that evening, the Lavender spotted a submarine on the surface and attacked with her 4-inch gun. The sub crash-dived-and the hunt was on. Contact was made and 10 depth charges were dropped on the sub. It was close to midnight now. And so ended my St. Patrick's Day in 1943. SORRY CHARLIE, WE'RE OUT OF 55- GALLON DRUMS. Nothing But Good Thoughts by Walter Karlak Editor's Note: Brother Karlak began sailing with the SIU in 1951. He retired in 1987, having attained the rating of chief electrician. He often reminisces about being an SIU member and has "nothing but good memories. " I can honestly say there weren't any bad trips as far as crews were concerned. And I was lucky that the SIU had the best there were. One of the memorable crews I sailed with was aboard the Steel Flyer, maldng a round-the-world trip of four months. From the captain on down, it was like a big, happy family. There were plenty of ports and time in them, and plenty of overtime.... Taldng an active part in fire and boat drills once a month was great. It helped those of us in the engine department to learn to save others, if need be. Instead of a crewmember being cast over the side, the drill used a 55-gallon drum as the victim. It had many holes punched in it so it would sink after a short period of time, thereby not creating a shipping hazard. "Man overboard" would be called out after the drum was thrown out. And the amazing part is that the ship never stopped. It merely changed course into the shape of a figure "8." It sailed the upper part of the "8," and at the central point was the loca- SIU Pensioner Walter Karlak has many fond memories of his sailing days, including fire and boat drills. The cartoon above, inspired by one of Brother Karlak's drawings, humorously shows what might have happened if no 55-gallon drums were onboard. tion of the drum. Once the drum had been spotted, the ship continued to form the lower part of the "8" and pick up the vietim. It's a wonderful fee1ing knowing that if anyone falls overboard on an SIU ship, it would be but a matter of a few minutes before being picked up. Crewmembers: always have a drum at the ready, because if there aren't any, it could be real-with you being tossed overboard (see cartoon above). Celebrating Thanksgiving at Sea and Ashore Across the United States, in American homes and facilities overseas, on board ships at seaThanksgiving Day was celebrated in the traditional and not-so-traditional ways. Turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce and pumpkin pie all made for the typical feast in most celebrations. Delicacies such as fresh lobster and cheese cake were added to the bounty at other tables. For Seafarers, many away from home, the holiday did not go unnoticed. In San Francisco, for example, the SIU hall held its sixth annual Thanksgiving Day dinner. Attended by Seafarers and their families and friends, as well as by representatives of other local maritime and building trades unions, Port Agent Nick Celona described it as a wonderful celebration. Table decorations, 18 turkeys, 30 pies and lots of music helped the 300 persons in attendance observe the holiday in grand fashion. Steward department members aboard SIU-crewed ships at sea and in port also took care to ensurethattheirshipmateswouldbe able to partake in traditional Thanksgiving Day foods. The Sea-Land Atlantic was paying off in Port Elizabeth, N.J. that day, and crew members aboard the Sea-Land Service vessel were treated to lobster in addition to the typical holiday fare. Enjoying Thanksgiving Day dinner at the SIU hall in San Francisco are (from left) Louis Shedrick, retired MC&S chief cook; Romy LumanIan, an accountaint at the San Francisco hall; Anna Lee Henseley, an employee with the Pacific Maritime Association; and Dolly Talaga, third cook. -- Aboard the Sea-Land Atlantic, Chief Cook Ali Hydera (left) and Those members responsible for the delicious holiday fare at the San Francisco hall are (from left) Messman Steward Edward Porter display a table filled with desserts of all kinds Sean Sullivan, Pantryman Kwan Joi Siu, Chief Cook Jon Blasquez, Chief Steward Burt Richardson, Chief to complete the Thanksgiving Day dinner. Cook Louella Sproul, Chief Cook Steve Valencia, Chief Steward E. Gomez and Messman Eddie Kasa. �SEAFARERS LOG FEBRUARY 1996 DEEP SEA EULOGIO ALVAREZ Eulogio Alvarez, 44, passed away December 24, 1995. Brother Alvarez began sailing with the Seafarers in 1986 from the port of Honolulu. Born in Honduras, Brother Alvarez worked in the steward department. He upgraded at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md., advancing from messman to chief cook. SHANE M. BLECHLE Shane M. Blechle, 22, died December?, 1995. A native of Missouri, he graduated from the Lundeberg ~'------' School in 1991 and joined the SIU in the port of Piney Point, Md. The engine department member upgraded his skills at the school. PANTALEON DE LOS SANTOS Pensioner Pantaleon De Los Santos, 92, passed away December 20, 1995. He joined the Seafarers in 1947 in the port of New Orleans after serving 23 years in the U.S. Navy. Brother De Los Santos sailed as a member of the steward department. Born in the Philippine Islands, he began receiving his pension in August 1968. Pensioner Irv\ ing Futter. \ man, 86, died December 13, 1995. He began his career with the SIU in 1958 in the '----====-----' port of San Francisco and sailed as a member of the engine department. Born in Poland, Brother Futterman retired in July 1977. ~------ CECIL C. GATES Pensioner Cecil C. Gates, 73, passed away December 22, 1995. Anative of Alabama, he started his career with the Seafarers in 1941 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Brother Gate!; last sailed as a bosun in the deck department. From 1940 to 1941, he served in the U.S. Anny. Brother Gates made his home in California and started to receive his pension in August 1978. SAMS.GOINS Pensioner Sam S. Goins, 70, died November 11, 1995. Brother Goins joined the SIU in 1968 in the port of New Orleans. The Tennessee native sailed in the deck department. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to 1945. Brother Goins retired in May 1990. HARRIS H. PATTERSON tic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District (AGLIWD). Brother Hammonds lived in the state of Washington and started receiving his pension in March 1975. Pensioner Harris H. Patterson, 68, passed away August 25, 1995. A native of Alabama, he joined the Seafarers in 1946 in the port of Norfolk, Va. The engine department member upgraded his skills at the Lundeberg School. He last sailed as a chief electrician. From 1951to1952 he served in the U.S. Army. Brother Patterson retired in November 1992. RICHARD M. HARP Pensioner Richard M. Harp, 73, died December 27, 1995. He began sailing with the Seafarers in 1948 from the L__----=...=::="'--_J port of Baltimore. Brother Harp sailed as a member of the steward department. A native of Baltimore, he retired in August 1984. DONALD W. PLUMMER Donald W. Plummer, 38, passed away December 30, 1995. He graduated from the Lundeberg School's -=====-i entry level program for seamen in 1975 and joined the Seafarers in the port of Piney Point, Md. The New York native shipped in the deck department and returned to the school for upgrading. JAMES KENO · Pensioner ; James Keno, 78, passed away December 16, 1995. Born in Alabama, he joined the SIU in 1943 t==----==-..J in the port of Norfolk, Va. The steward department member upgraded at the Lundeberg School and completed the bosun recertification course there in 1981. He began receiving his pension in January 1989. TROYB.POPE Troy B. Pope, 59, died November 22, 1995. Born in Oklahoma, he started his career with "' the SIU in 1961 in the port of Wilmington, Calif. Brother Pope sailed in the steward department and upgraded to chief steward in 1987 at the Lundeberg School. From 1955 to 1958, he served in the U.S. Navy. STEPHEN LOSTON Pensioner Stephen Loston, 74, died December 15, 1995. Brother Loston started his career with the Seafarers in 1952 in the port of New York. The Pennsylvania native sailed in the deck department. A World War II veteran, he served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to 1945. Brother Loston retired in January 1986. HARRELD F. REED Pensioner Harreld F. Reed, 70, died November 20, 1995. Born in Indiana, he began sailing with the SIU in 1955 from the port of New York. Brother Reed shipped in the engine department and upgraded his skills at the Lundeberg School. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to 1945. Brother Reed began receiving his pension in March 1990. CARLO MARINO Carlo Marino, 58, passed away December 3, J995. Born in Louisiana, he began sailing with the SIU in 1956 from the port of New Orleans. Brother Marino sailed as a member of the steward department. SIDNEY S. SHELLEY ROBERT L. MITCHELL Sidney S. Shelley, 38, passed away August 13, 1993. Anative of New York, he graduated from the Lundeberg School's entry level program for seamen in 1976 and joined the Seafarers in the port of Piney Point, Md. Brother Shelley sailed in the deck department. He upgraded at the Lundeberg School. Pensioner Robert L. Mitchell, 83, died October 30, 1995. A native of Texas, he joined the MC&S in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Mitchell began receiving his pension in December 1972. ======= RAMON MORAN Pensioner Ramon Moran, 88, passed away November 5, 1995. He was a charter , memberof the Seafarers, ___c::::....__ __ _ , having started his career with the union in 1939 in the port of New York. Brother Moran sailed as a member of the engine department. Born in Peru, he became a U.S. citizen. Brother Moran retired in September 1972. RAYMOND C. STEELE Pensioner Raymonde. Steele, 66, passed away December 30, 1995. Born in Florida, he began sailing .n with the 1._--=-===---__J Seafarers in 1947 from the port of Mobile, Ala. Brother Steele worked in both the deck and steward departments. He retired in August 1990. i..:::__ WILLIAM A. PADGETT EDDIE HAMMONDS Pensioner Eddie Hammonds, 74, passed away November 6, 1995. Born in South Carolina, he began his career with the Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S), before that union merged with the SIU' s Atlan- Pensioner William A. Padgett, 67, died December 29, 1995. Born in Florida, he began sailing with the SIU in 1948 from the port of New York. Brother Padgett sailed in the engine department. He retired in October 1972. GERALD D. SNYDER I Pensioner Gerald D. Snyder, 78, died September 22, 1995. Brother Snyder joined the MC&S before that union merged with the SIU' s AGLIWD. He began receiving his pension in May 1978. FRANCIS A. STOCK Pensioner Francis A. Stock, 73, died October 2, 1995. A native of California, he started his career with =---==-== the MC&S in 1952 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Stock served in the U.S. Navy from 1941 to 1947. He started to receive his pension in July 1987. WILLIAM A. TA TUM JR. Pensioner William A. Tatum Jr., 75, passed away November 5, 1995. Born in Georgia, he joined the Seafarers in 1951 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Brother Tatum sailed as a member of the engine department. He retired in May 1983. JOHN M. THOMPSON Pensioner John M. Thompson, 86, died December 10, 1995. He started his career with the SIU in 1950 in the port of New York. Brother Thompson last sailed in the engine department as an electrician. He began receiving his pension in May 1974. BERGER WILHELMSEN ~ , Pensioner Berger Wilhelmsen, 82, passed away October 12, 1995. Brother Wilhelmsen began sailing L..C. ::,c;...;:_-===c.--=::::::._=.-.JWiththe Seafarers in 1943 from the port of New York. He shipped as a member of the engine department. Born in Norway, Brother Wilhelmsen lived in the state of Washington. He retired in January 1978. JOHN A. WILLIAMS 19 CECIL L. WINSTEAD Cecil L. Winstead, 53, died October29, 1995. Bornin Florida, he began sailing with the Seafarers in 1986 from the port ~~~~~!!!!!!!!!!~ ofNewOrleans. Brother Winstead sailed in the deck department, most recently as bosun. He is survived by his wife, AB Charlotte Winstead. At Brother Winstead's request, his ashes will be scattered at sea. INLAND DENISE MILAN CALAMIA Denise Milan Calamia, 37, passed away August24, 1995. Born in Mississippi, she joined the SIU in 1994 in the port of L...---=.o- " ' - - - - - - - ' New Orleans. Sister Calamia sailed as a member of the deck department. QUINTILIO A. IEZZI Pensioner Quintilio A. Iezzi, 87, passed away December9, 1995. He joined the SIU in 1961 in the port of ..___ _ __ ___, Norfolk, Va. The Pennsylvania native sailed in the steward department. He served in the U.S. Anny from 1942 to 1945. Boatman Iezzi retired in September 1973. I JOHN L. MOORE John L. Moore, 78, died recently. Boatman Moore began sailing with the Seafarers in 1957 in the port of L___,__="'-""-"-=-=-...:..; Phil ad el phia. The North Carolina native last sailed in the deck department as a captain. Boatman Moore began receiving his. pension in July 1985. '· Pensioner ' John A. Williams, 77, died November 14, 1995. A native of Louisiana, he ( started his L. ~ career with ~-----'-~, the SIU in 1947 in the port of New Orleans. Brother Williams sailed in the steward department and began receiving his pension in July 1969. Lucio C. Sala, 63, passed · away December 28, 1995. Born in Italy, he joined the SIU in 1981 in the port of Wilmington, ~~=~~-=_J Calif. Boatman Sala sailed as a member of the steward department. THOMAS H. WILLIAMS GREAT LAKES Pensioner 1bomas H. Williams, 81, passed away December 22, 1995. As one of the charter members of the Seafarers, .___ _ _ _ _____, Brother Williams joined the union in l 938 in the port of Mobile, Ala. He sailed in the steward department, most recently as a chief steward. Born in Alabama, Brother Williams retired in September 1982. MUSSED A. ALA SRI LUCIO C. SALA Mussed A. Alasri, 50, passed away October28, 1995. Born in Yemen, he became a U.S. citizen and joined the Seafarers in 1966 in the port of Buffalo, N.Y. Brother Alasri sailed as a member of the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. �20 FEBRUARY 1996 SEAFARERS LOG SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR SEAFARERS PENSION TRUST This is a summary of the annual report of the Seafarers Pension Trust EIN 13-6100329, Plan No. 001, for the period January 1, 1994 through December 31, 1994. The annual report has been filed with the Internal Revenue Service, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Basic Financial Statement Benefits under the plan are provided by the trust fund. Plan expenses were $31,555,653. These expenses included $3,587 ,348 in administrative expenses and $27 ,968,305 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 24,006 persons were participants in or beneficiaries of the plan at the end of the plan year, although not all of these persons had yet earned the right to receive benefits. The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $476,026,127 as of December 31, 1994, compared to $507,295,192 as of January 1, 1994. During the plan year, the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $31,269,065. This decrease included unrealized appreciation and depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the value of assets at the end of the year and the value of assets at the beginning of the year or the cost of assets acquired during the year. The plan had a total income of $286,588, including employer contributions of $6,971,809, a realized gain of $717,009 from the sale of assets; and losses from investments of $(7 ,402,230). Minimum Funding Standards An actuary's statement shows that enough money was contributed to the plan to keep it funded in accordance with the .minimum funding standards ofERISA. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: 1. an accountant's report; 2. assets held for investment; 3. service provider and trustee information; 4. transactions in excess of 5% of plan assets; and 5. actuarial information regarding the funding of the plan. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of Mr. Lou Delma, who is the plan administrator, Board of Trustees Seafarers Pension Trust, 5201 Auth Way, Ca.mp Springs, MD 20746; telephone (301) 899-0675. The charge to covercopying costs will be $3.50 for the full annual report or $.10 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan (Board of Trustees Seafarers Pension Trust, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746) and at the U.S. Department of Laborin Washington, D.C., or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the DOL should be addressed to: Public Disclosure Room N-5638, Pension and Welfare Benefit Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20210. ----·- Cruzan Rum is produced by members of the United Industrial Workers (UIW), a union affiliated with the Seafarers International Union. But no matter the product, when Seafarers purchase union-made goods, they put their dollars to good use by supporting fellow trade unionists. Of course, they also get the best-made products. Company: Cruzan Rum Products made by UIW members: Light and dark rums UIW members at Cruzan: Handle all facets of production, including distilling, barrelling and bottling, as well as maintenance and more Distribution: Available in northeastern U.S., as well as some southern states and the Virgin Islands Facilities: Distillery on St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands That's a fact: Cruzan Rum is aged in oak casks, for up to 12 years Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership's money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the ' - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - ' headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member's shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Boardbycertifiedmail,retumreceiptrequested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 207 46 Full copies of_con~ts as refe~ to~ available to members at all tunes, either by wntmg directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are Crewmembers aboard the USNS Antares have reported nothing available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the but praise for the galley gang aboard the fast sealift vessel, which wages and conditions under which an SIU member recently docked in Baltimore. Above, Chief Cook Victor Jimenez pours a bowl of soup while, below, Chief Steward Pancho Lagasca works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members prepares a salad. should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. Lunchtime Aboard the Antares ED ITO RI AL POL ICY THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG tradition- - ally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaf~by_ members~p ~tion at the September_ I??<> meetmgs mall constI~tI~nal ports: The r~ns1bility for ;>eafarer:s WGpolicy 1s yested man editon~ board which consISts of the executive board of the UI?on. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to cany out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION - SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION-If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 207 46. �-------------- ----- ----- -- FEBRUARY 1996 SEAFARERS LOG Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships minutes first are reviewed by the union's contract department Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. AMERICAN MERLIN (Osprey Shipping), December 17-Chairman Antonio Trikoglou, Secretary Wayne Wilson, Educational Director Peter Stein, Deck Delegate Marius Louw, Engine Delegate Jason Jaskierny, Steward Delegate Jeff Sanchez. Chairman thanked crew for outstanding work during long voyage to Durban, South Africa. He commended crew for keeping ship clean and safe and extended special thanks to steward department for delicious Thanksgiving dinner. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade at Lundeberg School. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested heavy-duty microwave for galley. CAPE WASHINGTON (Amsea), December 13-Chairman Robert Johnson, Secretary Kyle White, Educational Director Hardin Chancey, Deck Delegate John Gibbons, Engine Delegate J. Yaber, Steward Delegate C. Green. Chairman announced ship scheduled to remain in Persian Gulf. Bosun reminded crew of no smoking area designated by the master for sanitation and health reasons. Educational director distributed information on pension plan and Piney Point upgrading schedule. He stressed importance of improving skills at Lundeberg School. Treasurer reported $181 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed purchasing new movies and thanked steward department for great Thanksgiving holiday meal. Next port: Bahrain. LIBERTY SUN (Liberty Maritime), December 24-Chairman Joseph Moore, Secretary Blair Humes, Educational Director Chormer Jefferson, Deck Delegate Joseph LeBeau, Steward Delegate James Swart. Chairman reported ship's water allowance has not been received. He announced payoff and room inspection dates. Educational director reminded members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. All department delegates reported disputed OT and beefs. Crew requested videotape rewinder, new VCR and refrigerator for lounge. OM/ STAR (OMI), December 3Chairman Melvin A. Santos, Secretary H.S. Manning, Deck Delegate William Edwards, Steward Delegate Alan Bartley. Bosun advised crewmembers to carry flashlights on deck at night while ship is docking and undocking. Educational director stressed importance of attending tanker operation/safety course at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crewmembers discussed need for holding shipboard union meetings. Crew thanked steward department for job well done. OVERSEAS NEW ORLEANS (Maritime Overseas), December l~hairman Jerry McLean, Covering the radar mast of the Sea-Land Hawaii with a fresh coat of paint are (from top) AB Ahmed Mihakel, AB Angel Roman and AB Greg Jenkins. Secretary Jonathan White, Educational Director John Trent, Deck Delegate Randall Hanke, Steward Delegate John Rapoza. Chairman reminded crewmembers to attend tanker operation/safety course at Piney Point as soon as possible. Engine delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT noted by deck or steward delegates. Next port: Pascagoula, Miss. SEA-LAND ENDURANCE (SeaLand Service), December 22Chainnan Chris Christensen, Secretary Rickie Juzang, Educational Director Michael Powell, Deck Delegate Ron Owens, Steward Delegate Bob Racklin. Bosun thanked crew for good shipyard stay and noted ship is in excellent condition. Educational director urged members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. Engine delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT noted by deck or steward delegates. Captain and crew extended special vote of thanks to galley gang for excellent job-both in and out of shipyard. Paul Hall Center this year. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked steward department for good meals. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. SEA-LAND SPIRIT (Sea-Land Service), December 17-Chainnan Howard Gibbs, Secretary Gerald Lunt, Educational Director Mike Wells, Steward Delegate Mario Finne Jr. Bosun noted ship's shuttle schedule to be posted. Secretary discussed importance of SPAD donations. Educational director urged members to take advantage of upgrading opportunities available at Piney Point. Treasurer announced $530 in ship's fund. Deck delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegates. Crew discussed creating movie fund. Crewmembers thanked galley gang 21 Delegate Daniel Payne. Chairman noted ship scheduled to arrive in New Orleans January 7 and pay off upon arrival. Educational director advised members tp upgrade at Piney Point. Deck delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT noted by engine or steward delegates. Crewmembers discussed upcoming contract negotiations. Crew extended vote of thanks to galley gang for great holiday meals. PFC EUGENE A.OBREGON (Waterman Steamship), January 14-Chainnan Henry Bouganim, Secretary Patrick Helton, Educational Director Robert Farmer, Deck Delegate Edward Gerena, Engine Delegate Ronald Lukas, Steward Delegate Leslie Davis. Educational director reminded crewmembers to upgrade at Paul A Victorious Catch SEA-LAND HA WAI/ (Sea-Land Service), December 24--Chairman James Carter, Secretary Don Spangler, Educational Director Daran Ragucci. Chairman announced end-of-year payoff and possible layup in shipyard. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next port: San Juan, P.R. SEA-LAND INDEPENDENCE (Sea-Land Service), December 24-Chairman Teodulfo Alanano, Secretary James Prado, Educational Director Tommy Hogan, Deck Delegate Louis Talarico, Engine Delegate Richard J. Mullen, Steward Delegate Terrence Stowall. Chairman announced he will sign off at end of voyage. He Fresh fish may not be a typical menu item aboard deep sea vessels, informed crewmembers that ship is but crewmembers aboard the T-AGOS ship USNS Victorious recently scheduled to begin Hong Kong taxi were treated to such a catch. Chief Cook Vince Grande reeled in this shuttle in February. Captain Kentuna while the vessel was traveling between the West Coast and the neth Montagne declared January 2, Hawaiian Islands. 1996 as "Richard J. Mullen Day" in recognition of the QMED's 50 . for job well done. Next port: OakHall Center as often as possible. years with SIU. In honor of land, Calif. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Mullen's last voyage before beginCrew thanked steward department ning retirement, crewmembers SEA-LAND TACOMA (Seafor special efforts to make holiday presented him with special certifiLand Service), December 6season a good one for entire ship. cate, crew list and plaque and enChairman Ray Nowak, ·s ecretary Crew thanked galley gang for exjoyed dinner and cake prepared by Harry Lively, Educational Direccellent food with special mention galley gang. Educational director tor George Ackley, Deck Delegate for SA Faith Davis' unique discussed importance of upgrading Steven Baker, Engine Delegate cookies. Next port Rota, Spain. at Lundeberg School. Treasurer Randall Firestine, Steward noted new movies purchased in Delegate Reynaldo Telmo. ChairRANGER (OMI), January 15Kaohsiung, Taiwan. No beefs or man reported telephone installed Chairman Daniel Laitinen, disputed OT reported. Next port: on dock in port of Kodiak, Alaska Secretary Neville Johnson, EducaHong Kong. for crewmembers. He advised crew tional Director Rafael Prim, Deck to use caution when using phone Delegate Richard Thomas, SEA-LAND INNOVATION (Sea- due to dim lighting and heavy trafSteward Delegate Stephanie Land Service), December 17fic in telephone location. Crew exSmith. Chairman called union Chairman Tommy Benton, pressed safety concerns related to meeting to inform crewrnembers Secretary Gregory Melvin, Educa- walking to and from ship in port of he must leave ship immediately tional Director Rex Bolin, Deck Tacoma, Wash. and asked condue to death in family. He said Delegate Joerg Witte, Engine tracts department to look into bosun will meet ship in next port. Delegate Harry Kinsman, company providing reliable Bosun thanked crewmembers for Steward Delegate Anderson Jor· transportation to and from dock. their expressions of sympathy and dan. Chairman reported new TV, Bosun noted receipt of new extended his appreciation to entire VCR, washer and dryer have been microwave for galley. Bosun crew. Educational director enordered. Educational director advised reminded crew of importance of couraged crew to attend tanker crew to be ready to vote for canattending tanker operaoperation/safety course at Lundidates who support U.S. merchant tion/safety course at Paul Hall deberg School. No beefs or dismarine in 1996 elections. No beefs Center. Treasurer announced puted OT reported. Next port: or disputed OT reported. Crew $942 in ship's fund. No beefs Panama. asked contracts department for or disputed OT reported. Next clarification on emergency leave SEA-LAND INTEGRITY (Seaport: Tacoma. from ship. Crew thanked steward Land Service), January 7- Chairdepartment for job well done. CHAMPION (Kirby Tankships), man Leon Jekot, Secretary January 2-Chainnan Inocencio Charles Fincher, Educational SEA-LAND INNOVATOR (SeaDesaville, Secretary Raymond Director Daniel Cameron, Deck Land Service), December 30Delegate Spencer Lyle, Engine Connolly, Educational Director J. Chairman John Stout, Secretary Delegate A.M. Santos, Steward McDaniel, Deck Delegate John Jose M. Bayani, Educational Delegate Robert Wilcox. ChairNichols, Engine Delegate Edward Director Cliff McCoy, Deck man announced ship payoff in Ezra, Steward Delegate John Delegate Thomas Ryan, Engine Foster. Chairman announced Charleston, S.C. Educational direcDelegate Crescendo Suazo, payoff time and date. Secretary dis- tor advised members to take adSteward Delegate Sylvester vantage of upgrading programs at cussed union correspondence with Mason. Chairman informed crewcrewmembers. No beefs or disPiney Point. No beefs or disputed members ship is scheduled to go OT reported. Bosun reminded puted OT reported. Crew thanked into shipyard for 10 days in Korea. steward department for job well crewmembers to turn off TV and Secretary extended special vote of VCR after use and rewind all done. Bosun encouraged crew to thanks to bosun, deck and engine continue working well together. videotapes before placing them departments for jobs well done. He back in library. Steward asked also thanked electrician for repairLIBERTY SPIRIT (Liberty crew not to smoke during meal ing and welding steel cabinet doors Maritime), January 3-Chairman hours and crew thanked galley in galley. Educational director adTerry Cowans Sr., Secretary gang for job well done. Crew vised crewmembers to attend Randy Stephens, Educational thanked wiper for keeping crew tanker operation/safety class at Director J. Badgett, Steward lounge neat and clean. �22 - FEBRUARY 1996 SEAFARERS LOG Lundeberg School Graduating Classes -··~- -=-· :..::.· _...... : .- Trainee Lifeboat Class 54~raduating from trainee lifeboat class 544 are (from left, kneeling) Candido Molina, Erik Leibold, Ricardo Casaine, Davon Brown, Third Mate-completing the third mate course on December 11 are (from left, William Michael Ill, George Burgos, (second row) Jeff Swanson (instructor), Dale kneeling) Donald McGraw, Char1es Booher, Scott Costello, Royce Kauffman, (second row) Gomes, Johanny Gonzalez, Edward Maymo Jr., Edward Maciejko Jr., Thomas Jim Brown (instructor), Richard Gordon, Gavina Octaviano, Oliver Babajko, Mark Blom and Scott Kreger. Scheider Ill, Michael Jones, Joseph Butasek Jr. and Lee Holbert. Fireman, Oiler, W atertender-Working their way up the engine department ratings on December 15 are (from left, kneeling) Roy Scott, Brian Lu, Lawrence Brown, Daren Nash, (second row) Alexis Frederick, Sean Adkins, James Donohue, Stephen Basic Inland-Upgrading graduates of the December 11 basic inland class are (from Stepanski, Carlos Perez, Steven Cortez, (third row) Jeffrey Spradlin, Christopher Duffy left, kneeling) William Cornwall, Wallace Duffield, Dennis McGeady, Tom Gilfila 1 Jr., Brian Hulstrom, Thomas White, Lloyd Marsh, Castel Blunt and Mark Roman. Not tor), (second row) J.B. Harris, Mike Hom, Josh Eckert, Brian McDermott, Gheorghe Popa pictured are Jason Bonefont and Rafael Comesana. and Paul Stepien. Cook and Baker-SIU members completing the cook and baker class on January Celestial Navigation-Graduating from the celestial navigation course on 26 are (from left) Brian Schmeer, Thomas Cyrus Jr., Dorothy Pizzuto, Michael Briscoe, December 8 are (from left) Stanley Williams, John McClinton, Andre Skevnick, Edward Simone Solomon and Willie Crear (instructor). Brooks Jr., Cari Moor and Jake Karaczynski (instructor). Tanker Operation/ Safety-Designed for members who sail on tankers, this course provides instruction to prevent potential problems aboard the ships. Seafarers completing the tanker operation/safety course on December 11 are (from left, kneeling) Andrew Vanbourg , ldowu Jonathan, Terry Smith, Pedro Santiago, Willie Marsh Jr., Robert Santos, (second row) Miguel Guity, • Lee Laffitte, Thomas Keenan Jr., Mato Anzulovich, Robert Hines Jr., Milton Israel, Raymond Leak, Troy Wood, Fred Winder, (third row) Nelson Lazo, Daniel Mitchell, Paul Dormes, James Rush, Calvin Miles, Donal Swanner, Joseph Laine and Raul Guerra Jr. �SEAFARERS LOG FEBRUARY 1996 LUNDEBERG SCHOOL 1996 UPSRADlllG COURSE SCHEDULE The following is the schedule for classes beginning between March and August 1996 at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship located at the Paul Hall Centerfor Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. All programs are geared to improve the job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American Steward Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Assistant Cook/Cook and Baker, Chief Cook, Chief Steward March2S June3 August 12 June 14 August23 Novemberl maritime industry. ' , Please note that this schedule may change to reflectthe needs of the membership, the matitime industry and-in times of conflict-the nation's security. . Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course's start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. Safety Specialty Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Tanker Operation/Safety March4 April 1 April29 May27 June24 July 22 August 19 March29 April 26 May24 June21 July 19 August16 September 13 Tankerman Recertification August 19 August30 Advanced Firefighting April 29 MaylO Deck Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Bridge Management May6 August19 May17 August30 Limited License July 1 August 9 Able Seaman April 29 June28 Radar March 18 April29 June24 August12 March22 May3 June28 August 16 Lifeboatman March25 April 5 Third Mate August26 December 13 Inland Courses Engine Upgrading Courses Date of Completion Course Start Date Radar Observer/Inland (see radar courses listed under deck department) Engineroom Troubleshooting & Casualty Control March4 March 15 DDFJLicense Prep April22 May31 Course Start Date Date of Com~letion QMED ·Any Rating June 17 September6 Fireman/Watertender & Oiler April29 June28 Refrigeration Systems Maintenance & Operations April29 June7 Course Start Date Date of Completion Engine Technology March 18 August12 April 26 September 20 Bosun Recertification Marine Electrical Maintenance I March18 July 15 April 26 August23 March4 Augusts April 5 September6 Steward Recertification July 1 August2 Marine Electrical Maintenance Il August26 October4 Basic Electronics April22 May17 Marine Electronics Technician I June3 July 12 Course Start Date Date of Completion Marine Electronics Technician Il July 15 August23 GED Preparation April29 June7 April 22 July 22 July 13 October 12 Di / 23 geration Systems Recertification Programs Additional Courses & Maintenance English as a Second Language (ESL) April 1 MaylO Marchll March22 Refrigerated Containers JunelO Julys Lifeboat Preparation Welding July 15 August9 Introduction to Computers to be announced Pumproom Maintenance April 1 August19 May 20 April 12 August30 June 28 Developmental Math - 098 June3 July 1 July26 August3 Developmental Math - 099 July 1 August 3 Power Plant Maintenance ~--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- UPGRADING APPLICATION Name _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ (Last) (Middle) (First) Address _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ (Street) (City) (State) (Zip Code) Date of Birth _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Telephone___.__ ___.__ _ _ _ __ (Arca Code) (Month/Day/Year) Deep Sea Member D With this application, COPIES of your discharges must be submitted showing sufficient time to qua.lify yourselffor the course(s) requested. You also must submit a COPY of each of the following: the first page ofyour union book indicating your department and seniority, your clinic card and the front and back of your z-card as well as your Lundeberg School identification card listing the course(s) you have taken and completed. The admissions office WILL NOT schedule you until all of the above are received. Lakes Member D COURSE BEGIN DATE END DATE Inland Waters Member D If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security# Book# _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Seniority Department _ _ _ _ _ __ U.S. Citizen: DYes D No HomePort _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now h e l d - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Are you a graduate of the SHLSS trainee program? DYes DNo LAST VESSEL: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Rating: _ _ _ __ Date On: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Date Off: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ If yes, class# - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Have you attended any SHLSS upgrading courses? DNo DYes If yes, course(s) taken _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? D Yes D No Firefighting: D Yes D No CPR: D Yes D No Primary language spoken - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - SIGNATURE.~-------------DATE _ _ _ _ _ __ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. RETURN COMPLETED APPLICATION TO: Lundeberg School of Seamanship, Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075. 2196 �SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT The summary of the annual report for the Seafarers Pension Trust may be found on page 20 in this issue of the LOG. Volume 58, Number 2 February 1996 Boa Constricts Life Aboard LNG Libra In the early morning hours of Wednesday, September 20, the Libra dropped the hook in the waters off the LNG port of Bontang (Indonesia), on the east coast of Kalimantan (Borneo). No one aboard knew just how exciting these several days at anchor were going to be. Later in the day, the tug Sea Puli came alongside and deposited the usual cadre of customs and immigration officials. In about one hour, when all the formalities had been completed, the tug returned to take the officials off the vessel. The sea had picked up a little, and so the tug, in order to maintain stability for the boarders, made up to the side of the Libra with more than usual force. As the powerful engines pressed the Sea Puli against the side of the Libra, the space inside one of the large tires, which make up the bumpers on the tugboat, apparently became a little too cramped for a large boa constrictor which had taken up residence inside the tire. As the tug moved away from the ship, the snake slithered out of the tire and into the sea. On the Libra's deck, Bosun Bert Gillis spotted the snake dangling by its tail from the Sea Puli and dropping into the water. He Around 1700, the Sea Puli returned in her role as the ship's liberty launch. As she rounded the stern, the snake was seen in the water once again. This time the snake was swimming toward the Sea Puli and seemed to be intent upon reboarding the tugboat! After the tug left, however, the snake was seen swimming around the Libra as before. That night it was seen on several occasions where the ship's lights illuminated the waters. Thursday, the bosun and AB Tom Grose spent every spare moment trying to capture the snake. They devised poles with rope loops on them, several baskets and buckets, etc. Nothing worked to lure the snake into their clutches. At one point, Gillis observed the snake attempting to climb the anchor chain. It soon failed and fell back into the water. He described the serpent as being eight to 10 feet in length and perhaps four inches in diameter at its thickest point, with a large head which was wide and tapered down to a flat nose. The bosun has had some experience with snakes, being a diver and veteran of the Army's Special Forces, which make it their business to know snakes. His opinion was that it was indeed a boa constrictor or something very similar and NOT a sea snake. Late on Thursday, the snake was no longer seen swimming around the ship. Speculation about the snake's fate varied. Some thought it couldn't stand the salt water and had drowned. Others thought it had swum ashore, in spite of the fact that tried to signal the tugboat, but they misinterpreted the gestures and grinned and waved back, unaware that they had just lost a passenger. For the remainder of Wednesday, the reptilian visitor was seen swimming in the waters around the Libra. Much speculation ensued as to whether it actually was a boa constrictor, as the bosun insisted, or some sea snake, which seemed much more likely. By midaftemoon, the snake was no longer seen and was thought to have drowned or perhaps was clinging to the rudder post. we were anchored seven to 10 l• miles from the nearest land. A few insisted that a barracuda ;::· i; !'j. .: had eaten it. Several days went by with no sightings of the snake being reported. The crew of the tug Sea Puli was informed that the boat had brought the boa (Indonesian: san'cha) to the Libra. They were adamant that it was not possible, could not have happened, etc. No snake had ever been spotted on the tugboat and none had been seen in the port area. We were advised that it Snake expert and bosun Bert Gillis displays the surprise stowaway found aboard the LNG Libra last could possibly be a sea snake September. Looking at the 9-foot boa constrictor from a safe distance is AB John Lefavour. but could not possibly be more by Jerry Hale Editor's note: Radio Officer Jerry Hale offers the following eyewitness account of a most unusual visitor aboard the SIUcrewed LNG Libra, which is operated by Energy Transportation Corp. What follows is his letter to the Seafarers LOG. He also provided the photograph. than about one meter in length or bigger in diameter than oneand-a-half inches or maybe two. I had missed the early sighting but put out the word that whenever the snake was again spotted to please let me know IMMEDIATELY so that pictures could be taken of what was looking like a very unusual incident. Days went by with everyone checking the water for the snake. John Hartono, the first engineer, and Keith Larson, the second mate, even lowered the lifeboats (for in-water maintenance) so they could check out the rudder post. People were snake's reaction to the prodding. ABs Ralph Neal and Norman Armstrong were standing WAY back. Ralph had had a real scare when he started the winch and saw a REALLY BIG snake start to come out of it! The fan hit the snake when the winch was started. The blade cut him rather severely and he decided to get out of there. Soon all the noise and horrified screams changed the snake's mind and he retreated back inside the winch. As the crowd gathered, various implements were inserted into the winch in an attempt to dislodge the snake but nothing seemed to be working. Gillis send AB Gene Aruta to the bosun's locker for some solvent. When a little of the solvent was poured onto the snake, he decided the had to make his getaway and dropped down onto the deck under the winch. As the snake started to make its getaway, Gillis placed the big stick on him and stopped his walking all around the ship look- progress. He then turned the ing down over the rail every stick over the Grose, who held several feet, hoping to see the the snake in place. The bosun snake again, but no one saw any- put a deck scraper on the thing after Thursday. snake's head and then grabbed On Wednesday, September the snake right behind the head 27, exactly one week after the and picked him up. first sighting, the phone rang in Gillis paraded the snake the radio room. An excited around so that everyone could voice informed me that the get a good look at it. Of course, snake was aboard the ship and he had everyone's attention and was presently between cargo had no problem with crowding! After the captain, the mate, SA tanks 1 and 2 ! The snake had finally learned to climb the Tom Williams and others had anchor chain! their chance to handle the snake I grabbed my video and still and everyone had a chance to cameras, stopped long enough take pictures, the bosun marto make a quick call to Captain ched off to the fantail for the Legnos and one to EOS (engine end game. He had the snake firmly behind the head, and the office space) before I dashed snake had Gillis even more firmdown the ladder. I called to everyone I saw and urged them ly by the right arm, clutching so to pass the word; this was some- tightly that he was cutting off thing not to be missed. the bosun's circulation. By then, When I arrived on the scene, though, the snake's options I found the bosun armed with a were few and his chances of surlarge stick and Grose armed vival only two: slim and none. with a hatchet. They were cirThere was some discussion cling the winch and prodding at as to what should be done with the snake. The people who capan unseen snake which had tured him were adamant that the crawled inside it. AB John Lefavour was perched atop the snake be taken out of his misery and his skin used for some pracwinch, keeping an eye on the tical purpose. Actually, Grose was enthusiastic about the prospect and can be heard on the videotape exclaiming, "Let's cut off his head" over and over! He kept swiping at the snake's head, scaring the bosun, who seemed much more afraid of being chopped by the AB than of being bitten by the snake! Some said the snake should be spared and just returned to the water. That idea was not enthusiastically received since he wouldn't stay in the water, and if he did, he would not survive because of the injuries he received in the winch. Since nobody was very forceful in the snake's defense, Grose finally had his way and the snake's head was chopped off (quickly and mercifully, I assure you) and his skin was removed. The captain of the Sea Puli insisted that snake meat was delicious. That idea did not get a majority vote, however, and so the meat was disposed of. The curing and tanning process is under way, and Gillis informs us that the skin will make approximately 10 men's wallets, souvenirs of the great snake caper LNG Libra. In the final analysis, the snake was exactly 9V4 feet (2.82 meters) long. He was 7V4 inches (18.42 cm) in diameter at the largest point. Although no official weight was taken, he was estimated at 101/z pounds. And so ends our tale of adventure. I've always maintained that a sailor's life is anything but boring, but this has to be the most unusual sea story I've ever encountered. Hopefully, this is the final chapter, although the natives assure me that these snakes always trav~l in pairs, which means that his mate is sure to be nearby. We don't really believe that, but there seems to be an extraordinary delay in getting the winches serviced, and flashlight batteries have become a commodity! Watch where you step on the LNG Libra, and use the buddy system if you go on deck at night! � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 1990-1999 Description An account of the resource Volumes LII-LXI Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993; Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource February 1996 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES SIU-CREWED RRF SHIPS RETURN FROM BOSNIA CREWS BRAVE BRUTAL WEATHER TO DELIVER MATERIAL TO NATO FORCES SENATE READY TO CONSIDER U.S. SHIP BILL NEW TERMINAL PLANNED FOR NY FERRY SERVICE SEAFARERS LET SENATORS KNOW IMPORTANCE OF U.S.-FLAG FLEET CONGRESSMAN CALLS FOR STREAMLINING FEDERAL DREDGING PERMIT PROCESS SEVERE ICING CLOGS SHIPPING ON LAKES WATERWAY CREWS COMBAT WINTER NJ COMMUTER TERMINAL TO BOOST FERRY SYSTEM BOOK RECOUNTS MARINERS’ ROLE IN WORLD WAR II JOURNALISTIC AND SEAFARING CAREERS AID BUNKER IN WRITING MARINERS’ WAR HISTORY MARINERS NEED ADDITIONAL ID BY OCT. 1; USCG TO ISSUE DOCUMENT AT NO COST ‘SANTA’ STRESSES NEED FOR STRONG U.S. FLEET SAFETY REMAINS TOP CONCERN FOR ITB BALTIMORE TANKERMEN SIU SAFETY TRAINING CONTINUES ABOARD DELTA QUEEN RIVERBOATS SHIPBOARD BAND BOOSTS MORALE ON SEA WOLF SEA-LAND CREW ACCEPTS CHALLENGE OF TRANSFERRING SHIP TO WEST COAST BOA CONSTRICTS LIFE ABOARD LNG LIBRA Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 02/01/1996 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 58, No. 2 1996 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/523131d0ab3495af9e7b42566a647e13.pdf 3cde4f99f891fe09068db90de3f6186d PDF Text Text 1996 Lundeberg School Course Guide and Schedule _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Pages 11-14 Volume 58, Number 1 January 1996 Measure Now Before Senate _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Page3 The SIU-crewed Cape Rise is one of the RRF Seafarers Crew RRF Vessels shi~ps~~I-l Deployed for U.S. Bosn1·a Effort broken out toin support peacekeepers Bosnia. U.S. troops serving as _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Page3 Severe Weather Does Not Hamper Great Lakes Finale Maritrans Adds Tug/Barge to Lightering Fleet _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Page4 _ _ _ _ _ _ Pages �2 JANUARY 1996 SEAFARERS LOG President's Report Ongoing Goal: Job Security Job security was the number one goal of the SIU during 1995-as it has been in the past and will be in the future. Looking back on the year, it is evident that nearly all the .. . SIU' s activities involved jobs-either the push to create new ones or the fight to keep what we have. One of 1995's highlights was the launching of Delta Queen Steamboat Company's American Queen, a big, beautiful boat that carries passengers along the Mississippi River. When that vessel was christened on a hot June day in New Orleans, it marked the addition of hundreds of new jobs in the SIU. SIU members also crewed the first two Michael Sacco U.S. Anny prepositioning vessels during year. Just a few months after the LTC Calvin P. Titus and SP5 Eric G. Gibson broke out, SIU-contracted Bay Ship Management received an award from the Military Sealift Command to crew five more Army support ships presently being refitted in American shipyards. The U.S.-flag independent tanker fleet received a tremendous boost when Congress passed and President Clinton signed legislation that will allow the export of Alaskan North Slope oil as long as it is carried aboard U.S.-flag vessels. The SIU fought hard for this legislation, knowing the measure would provide jobs for Seafarers into the next century. Last month brought more good news when five SIU-crewed bulkers operated by Liberty Maritime received a five-year extension of their operating contract from the Maritime Administration (MarAd). In approving the extension, the Department of Transportation agency noted the action ensures the U.S.-flag bulk fleet will continue to play a vital role in America's international bulk trades. The SIU legally challenged the move by American President Lines (APL) to operate six new ships under foreign flag in competition with the company's U.S.-flag vessels. And although court rulings allowed APL to operate the ships under runawayflag registry, the union will continue the fight for the ships to sail under the American flag-where they belong! In the wake of APL' s threats to flag out, Matson acquired six U.S.-flag containerships from that company. This action secured the jobs of many members who sail aboard these vessels. The ships are being used in Matson's Pacific Coast Shuttle service as well as sailing from the West Coast to Hawaii, Guam and Asia. Boatmen acquired new jobs when Penn Maritime built two new tug/barges for its fleet of petroleum-hauling vessels and Maritrans added a tug/barge to its operations. Of course, the SIU has no intention of slacking off in 1996. In the year ahead, the union will continue working with Congress to enact a maritime revitalization program, legislation that ensures America will maintain a strong merchant fleet. So far, the House of Representatives has passed the bill (H.R. 1350) creating the 10-year program that will help fund approximately 50 U.S.-flag containerships. Full attention now has been shifted to the Senate. SIU members, pensioners and their families continue to write, call and visit with elected officials informing them of the importance of this bill. The fight for this measure has been going on since early last year, but thanks to the strong effort being exerted by our membership, maritime revitalization should become law this year. Likewise, the SIU will forge ahead with our allies who are turning back misguided attempts to dismantle the Jones Act, which provides economic and national security for America while preserving tens of thousands of jobs. The 1920 law declares that cargo carried between two domestic ports must be carried on U.S.-built, U.S.-crewed and U.S.-owned vessels. This battle for the Jones Act is being waged by deep sea, inland and Great Lakes members because the stakes are high for all Seafarers. Just as the union will ensure the Jones Act remains the law of the land, the SIU will continue its fight to preserve the Passenger Services Vessel Act, which was enacted in 1886 and calls for U.S.-crewed, U.S.-built and U.S.-owned vessels to transport passengers between American ports. The new year also may bring a challenge to the nation's cargo preference laws when Congress considers a new agriculture bill. When the measure was last debated in 1990, legislators from both parties stood up for the U.S. merchant fleet. With so many new members of Congress elected since then, the SIU will be working to inform them on the need and value of America's cargo preference laws. These are just a few of the subjects the union will be working on in 1996. You can be assured that no matter the issue, the SIU will be willing and able to fight for our livelihoods. I am confident in this union's members, and I know that, together, we will continue to make gains in our job security and the welfare of our families. · Seafarers Answer the Call As they have done in the past, Seafarers continue to show they are ready to answer their nation's call when, last month, they crewed and sailed Ready Reserve Force ships to Bosnia in support of international peacekeeping forces. The SIU stands ready to work with our nation's troops by transporting their vehicles, ammunition, food and other materiel and will do its part to ensure the mission is successful. Coast Guard lmp_lements Records Check Program Documents Issued After Driving, Criminal Review The U.S. Coast Guard will implement its program of checking the driving and criminal records of anyone applying for or renewing a merchant mariner's document, license or certificate of registry, effective January 18. In announcing the start of this effort, the Department of Transportation agency outlined the criteria it would use in determining if an application is accepted or rejected. Published in the Federal Register on December 19, 1995, the program brings the Coast Guard into compliance with aspects of the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (OPA '90), which called for the agency to check the background of mariners seeking or renewing documents, licenses and certificates. OPA '90 allows the Coast Guard to use the National Driver Register because it may show a record of alcohol- or drug-related offenses. The agency stated that although a person's motor vehicle record is not directly related to ·one's maritime career, it could indicate that the individual may have a disregard for his or her safety or the safety of others, which may make the person unsuitable for work aboard a vessel. Before the implementation of this rule, the Coast Guard checked the National Driver Register only after an applicant voluntarily admitted to a driving violation. Among the items the Coast Guard will be looking for in its review of the register are recent convictions involving the operation of a motor vehicle while under the influence of, or being impairedby,alcoholoracontrolled substance; or any traffic violations connected with reckless driving, racing on the highways or a fatal traffic accident. Additionally, the Coast Guard will use fingerprints to check the criminal record through the FBI of an applicant who seeks a new or renewed document, license or certificate. The prints will be taken when the individual submits his or her application. Previously, the agency ran a criminal check on original applications for documents, licenses and certificates. According to the Federal Register, the Coast Guard may disqualify an applicant if a criminal record shows he or she "cannot be entrusted with the duties and responsibilities of the merchant mariner's document." Listed among the types of criminal activity the agency will look for are crimes against persons, vehicular crimes, crimes against public safety, crimes involving national security and dangerous drug offenses. If the Coast Guard determines that an applicant should be denied a document, license or certificate, the individual would have the right to appeal the decision to a board established by the Coast Guard. Congress passed OPA '90 following the 1989 Exxon Valdez oil spill. Besides allowing the Coast Guard to check driving and criminal records of applicants, the law also called for the agency to renew documents and certificates of mariners every five years. Other provisions of OPA '90 mandated that tankers and tank vessels sailing in U.S. waters be double-hulled by certain date~ established a national oil spill response system along America's coastlines and limited the amount of continuous hours mariners could work on U.S.-flag tankers. Indonesian Mariners Tour Paul Hall Center [ 1 r 1 ' ~PAUia ' MALL UBIARY AND MARITIME MUSEUM Taking a break outside the Paul Hall Library and Maritime Museum during their tour of the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship are Indonesian crewmembers from the passenger ship Meridian. SIU Representative and ITF Inspector Edd Morris provided the tour for these mariners when their ship recently docked in Baltimore. MarAd Extends Operating Contract For SIU-Crewed Liberty Bulkers Five SIU -crewed bulkers received an extension of five years on their operating contract from the Maritime Administration (MarAd) last month. In announcing the decision, MarAd noted the Liberty Star, Liberty Sun, Liberty Wave, Liberty Spirit and Liberty Sea will receive funds that previously had been unused. The action ensures "continued operation in the international trade, under American registry with American-citizen crews, of the five largest, most efficient drybulk carriers in the U.S.-flag fleet/' according to the Department of Transportation agency. ''The action provides for the retention of 250 seafaring jobs for American inerchant mariners, helping to maintain the skilled employment base available to crew government-owned reserve ships during emergencies. It also ensures a continued American shipping presence in the nation's vital bulk trade," the Mar Ad Volume 58, Number 1 ~ 11 statement added. The five ships were built between 1984 and 1986. Each can hold approximately 64,000 tons of cargo. The vessels are capable of sailing throughout the world. January 1996 The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District; AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone(301) 899-0675. Second-class postage. paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998 and at additional offices. POS1MASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Managing Editor, Daniel Duncan; Associate Editor/Production, Deborah A. Hirtes; Associate .Editors, Jordan Biscardo and Corrina Christensen Gutierrez; Art, Bill Brower; Administrative Support, Jeanne Textor. L----------------------- �SEAFARERS LOG JANUARY 1996 3 House Passes U.S. Ship Bill Bipartisan Vote Sets Stage For Senate to Take Action The House of Representatives passed legislation that would create a 10-year, $1 billion maritime revitalization program. By a voice vote on December 6, members of the House debated, then approved H.R. 1350 (the Maritime Security Act of 1995). The Se_nate is expected to consider the SIU-supported legislation at any time. Money for the program is being considered within a different bill. Both the House and Senate have included the program's first-year funding within the Commerce, Justice and State departments appropriations bill. (Funding for maritime programs falls under the jurisdiction of this bill in Congress.) The appropriations bill was passed by Congress but was vetoed by President Clinton last month for reasons other than the maritime program. The president has noted his support for a maritime revitalization program, stating he would sign the legislation when it is passed by Congress. Under federal law, the outline of a new program, like maritime revitalization, must be approved by Congress before any money can be spent on it. Thus, in order for maritime revitalization to become law, Congress must pass and the president sign both the authorization bill (H.R. 1350) and the appropriations bill (the Commerce appropriations measure). Even if the appropriations legislation clears Congress and the president, no dollars can be spent on maritime revitalization until the authorization bill becomes law. Introduced in March Congress has been working on the maritime revitalization program since it was introduced by Transportation Secretary Federico Pefia in March 1995. The legislation calls for dollars to be provided from the Department of Transportation budget to help fund approximately 50 U.S.-flag containerships. In return for the money, the U.S.-flag shipping companies that are scheduled to receive it will make the vessels available to the Department of Defense during times of national emergency or war. H.R. 1350 calls on Congress to appropriate the funds for the program each year, rather than providing all the dollars at one time. The program is scheduled to start in Fiscal Year 1996, which began October 1, 1995. Seafarers Sail in Support Of Peacekeeping Mission Taking a break from galley preparations in Norfolk, Va. are (standing from left) Steward Assistant Alfred Everett, Chief Steward Margie Mack and Steward Assistant Stanley Ingram, part of the Cape Race crew assisting NATO peacekeeping forces in Bosnia. Seated is SIU Port Agent Mike Paladino. Two SIU-crewed Ready Reserve Force (RRF) ships are sailing in support of NATO peacekeeping troops in Bosnia. The Cape Race and the Cape Rise, rollon/roll-off cargo ships, each 648 feet in length, were activated by the U.S. Defense Department' s Transportation Command last month. They sailed from Portsmouth, Va. in early December, ahead of their fourday activation schedules. Operated for the U.S. Maritime Administration (MarAd) by OMI Ship Management, Inc., the Cape Race and Cape Rise delivered materiel to the Croatian port of Split in late December. They picked up the cargo at Antwerp, Belgium and Marchwood, England. At press time, the vessels, which have stem and side ramps enabling military vehicles to be loaded and unloaded without cranes, remained overseas in support of the peacekeeping mission. On January 3, the Cape Rise was in Bremerhaven, Germany, taking on cargo for U.S. troops. It was scheduled subsequently to go to Marchwood for more materiel, then back to Split. The Cape Race, meanwhile, was slated to arrive in MarchwoodJanuary 5, then return to Split. "Once again, America's maritime industry and merchant mariners have answered the call to duty," stated U.S. Secretary of Transportation Federico Pefia in announcing the breakout of the vessels. "America's skilled merchant mariners and theentiremaritimeindustryremainvitalto our national defense, peacekeeping and humanitarian efforts." Most of the Seafarers crewing the two RRF vessels, part of a fleet of 92 ships maintained by MarAd to quickly provide sealift support for military forces, were from the SIU's hall in Norfolk, Va. "We got notified (of the call-up) on Friday, December 1 at approximately 5 p.m. We had everyone on board by 8 o'clock the Continued on page 4 Legislators Hit Deck, Advocating the Need For Merchant Fleet · The need for a strong U.S.-flag merchant fleet was not lost on the members of the House of Representatives when they approved H.R. 1350 (the Maritime Security Act of 1995) by a voice vote on December6. Members of both political parties rose to speak in support of the 10-year, $1 billion maritime revitalization program that will help fund approximately 50 militarily useful U.S.-flag containerships. The SIU spoke in favor of the measure during hearings held last year. "No one who really thinks about our national security could possibly make an argument that our country is secure if we do not have an American-flag merchant Herbert H. Bateman marine," stated U.S. Representative Herbert H. Bateman (R-Va.). As chairman of the House Merchant Marine Oversight Panel, Bateman steered the legislation through its series of hearings and debates in the chamber during 1995. Others noted that American forces would soon be deployed in Bosnia, which would again demonstrate the need for U.S.-flag • ships crewed by · ~ American mariners to supJames Quillen ply them. "Without passage of this bill, the United States will have to rely on foreign-flag shipping to conduct foreign commerce and for any future military operations," noted Rep. James Quillen (R-Tenn.). "We cannot stand by and allow this to happen. "The future of our merchant marine fleet is at stake. We owe it to our country to see that all of our defense components-in cl u ding our sealift capabilities-are second to none," he added. Representative Duncan Hunter (R-Calif.) reminded his colleagues of testimony given earlier in the year by the head of the military's logistics command. Duncan Hunter " Genera1 Robert Rutherford, commander of the U.S. Transportation Command, told Congress that we had to have our own, and maintain our own, sealift capability," Hunter stated. Also pointing out the need for U .S.-flag merchant ships to be available to provide American troops their needed mat~riel was Representative Gerald Solomon (R-N · Y .), Gerald Solomon chairman of the House Rules Committee. "When our troops go into harm's way, they need the assurance that their supplies will be there for them. We owe them nothing less," said Solomon. Other elected officials pointed out the economic effect the U.S.-flag fleet has on the nation as well as workers around the world. "A vital U.S. commercial fleet means jobs for Americans," Representative Neil Abercrombie (D-Hawaii) informed his colleagues. "U.S.flag ships abide by U.S. tax, en- Neil Abercrombie vironmental, safety and labor laws and standards. American-crewed, American-made ships support U.S. interests." Picking up on this theme was Representative William 0. Lipinski (D-111.), who had served as chairman of the former House Merchant Marine Subcommittee from 1993 to 1994. Lipinski noted that "foreign-flag vessels have absolutely no obligation to comply with the health and safety standards established by our government. In contrast, U.S. shipowners hire U.S. citizens and must comply with the federal laws protecting the welfare of the crewmembers." Representative Patsy Mink (DH aw a ii) stated passage of the maritime revitalization bill would not only help American mariners, it also would have a residual effect on mariners of Patsy Mink other nations. "Preservation of the U.S. maritime industry will encourage better working conditions on foreign vessels," she said. "The United States is among the highest in health, safety and labor standards on board maritime vessels. Workers on foreign vessels are often envious of the humanitarian protections afforded to crews of U.S. vessels. "If the U.S. maritime industry is allowed to dwindle, there will be little pressure on foreign ships to improve their standards." Representative Randy (Duke) Cunningham (R-Calif.) emphasized that H.R. 1350 had nothing to do with "partisan politics. It is about American jobs, it is about American security, it is about national security and it is about the betterment of this country." '--~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~--- �4 JANUARY 1996 SEAFARERS LOG Lakes Season Continues Despite Ice, Snow, Winds Braving 70-mile-per-hour gales, sub-zero windchills, icy harbors and snow-filled inlets, Seafarers aboard SIU-contracted lakers continue to move cargo along the Great Lakes in order to meet the high demand for various commodities in the region. Blustery conditions on the Lakes have dumped an abundance of ice and snow on the Midwest and Northeast regions of the U.S., but a majority of SIU members will continue to sail until the middle of this month when the Soo Locks in Sault Ste. Marie, Mich. close and bring a halt to most shipping on the Great Lakes. By federal regulation, the locks will close at midnight on January 15 and are not expected to reopen until March 25. Wild Winter Delays Blowing snow and freezing rain closed schools, businesses and brought an end to Christmas travel plans for many in the Lakes region last month. A total of 41 inches of snow fell on Buffalo, N.Y., where SIUcontracted Kinsman Lines vessels deliver grain. While the 'd d" 1 ~" heavy snow d1 not rrect Yauect Seafarers aboard the Kinsman Independence and its sister ship, the Kinsman Enterprise, the 70-mileper-hour gale winds that accompanied the storm and swept across the Lakes did. The Kinsman Independence had to anchor in Thunder Bay, Canada only hours after leaving the port of Duluth, Minn. to escape the dangerous winds. Dolly Audette, a second cook who recently signed off of the KinsmanEnterprisewhenitcame into the Duluth/Superior, Wis. harbor for winter layup, recalled, "It was one of the worst trips I ever had in my lOyearsofsailing. "I don't usually get scared but on that trip I was. I even had my survival suit out and ready to wear for the first time. The winds and waves were incredible. The ship started rolling in the morning and didn't stop until well into the next day. When the storm was finally over, the galley and the storeroom were trashed. Nothing was left untouched," Audette added. A three-day snow storm dropped a record-breaking 62 inches of snow in Sault Ste. Marie. According to local press reports, more than 40 ships were backed up at the Soo Locks because the U.S. Coast Guard closed the St. Marys River (which connects lakes Huron and Superior at the locks) due to poor visibility. Unusually cold temperatures have produced dangerous broken ice formations three to four feet thick in critical stretches of the St. Marys River which connects the iron ore loading ports of Lake Superior to the steel mills located along the lower Lakes. U.S. and Canadian icebreakers have been assisting lakers through the St. Marys since mid-December. Clearing the Way Seafarers also are playing a vital role in busting ice in the harhors and inlets around the Lakes. Vernon Gimpel, a deckhand who works aboard Great Lakes Towing Co. tugs in the port of Duluth, has had his share of winter work. "It is really getting icy out there. We are primarily busting ice so that the lakers can come into port and make turns to get out of port," the deckhand noted. "We will be busy until the close of the locks at midnight when the very last vessels come through into Duluth for winter layup. Right now there is no end to the work we must do to make it safe for the ships to come in and out. No sooner can we clear the way before it refreezes and we need to come in and break it up again and again," said Gimpel, who joined the union in 1961 in the port of Duluth. Despite such conditions, Seafarers are working hard to make sure that customers receive all the cargo they need to make it through the winter months. This end-of-the-season rush has been dubbed "Operation Taconite" by the Coast Guard because the massive ice-breaking operations ensure that domestic steelmakers receive their iron ore stockpiles before the Lakes close for the winter. Steamin' On American Steamship Company (ASC), which had originally announced it would lay up several ships at the end of last month, is still operating at full capacity until the locks close. "Even though many of the ships are now being delayed with ice in the harbors and rivers, we are still working on gett~g a l~~ of scheduled cargo d~hvered, stated Donald Pfohl, director of marine personnel for ASC. "The weather is not cooperating, but we are still continuing to do the best we can. We will operate until the locks close or untiltheiceandsnowprohibitus from doing so," Pfohl added. Other SIU-contracted companies are operating in much the same manner. Inland Lakes Management already has laid up two vessels for the winter-the E.M. Ford and Paul H. Townsend. The S. T. Crapo, J.A. W. Iglehart and Alpena will continue operating through the ~ ~ Evenin_gNewsSauttsunday At the beginning of December, a record-breaking 62 inches of snow fell on the Soo Locks in Sault Ste. Marie, Mich., causing a three-day delay for ships scheduled to traverse into Lake Superior. first weeks of this month. For Hann.ah M~rine/OLS, many boats will continue operating all winter despite the closing of the Soo Locks-which they do nottraverse.TheDonaldC.Hannah will carry oil along Lake Erie all winter long while the Mark Hannah will transport calcium chloride between Ludington, Mich. and Chicago until spring. Continuing operations in the Chicago River area will be the Mary Page Hannah, Hannah D. Hannah, Margaret M. Hannah, Peggy D. Hannah and Daryl C. Hannah. Of the Chicago-based fleet, the Mary E. Hannah,James A. Hannah, Susan W. Hannah, Kristin Lee will tie up for the winter. Atpresstime,thePresqueisle, a Litton Great Lakes vessel, was still in service on Lake Michigan. However, the company noted that major ice delays in port areas were causing Litton to consider laying up for the winter during the first weeks of this month. As for Erie Sand Steamship Co., all four company vessels were laid up by mid-December. Hall Center Develops Courses for Inland Tankermen Instructors at the Paul Hall Center are finalizing the curricula for two new inland courses that will be available to upgraders later this year. The tankerman recertification class is being developed to assist SIU boatmen who have a tankerman endorsement comply with new federal regulations that take effect March 31, 1997. The new regulations will change the present tankerman rating to tankermanperson in charge (barge). (Person in charge is abbreviated as PIC.) After the March 31, 1997 date, the U.S. Coast Guard will issue merchant mariner's documents (z-cards) with the new tankerman-PIC (barge) rating. In order to have the tankerman-PIC (barge) rating placed on a z-card renewed after that date, an inland tankerman will have to show proof that he or she has successfully completed a Coast Guard-approved course on the subject, such as the Lundeberg School's old tankerman .class. At this time, the Paul Hall Center is applying to have the Coast Guard approve the tankerman recertification curriculum in order that its graduates will receive the rating. The tankennan recertification course will review aspects of loading, transferring and unloading various cargoes carried by tank barges, as well as revisiting diesel engine operation and repair. It also may include somefirefightingtrainingtoensurefullcompliance with the new regulations. The first tankerman recertification class is scheduled to be offered at the school on August 19. Future class dates may be found on page 14 in this issue of the Seafarers LOG. Additional Offering For boatmen who do not hold a tankerman endorsement but want to become tankermen, the Lundeberg School is creating a course especially for them. That class will be called tankermanc (b PI arge)-original. This updated course is replacing the inland tankermanclass that had been offered by the school. The length of the tankerman-PIC (barge)-original class has not been determined, but probably will last three or four weeks. Because this course will be designed for mariners'who have not sailed as tankermen, it will offer a more detailed study of transferring bulk liquid cargo, tank barge firefighting and handling of dangerous liquids or liquified gasses. As soon as the curriculum is finalized, the Paul Hall Center will apply to have the course approved by the Coast Guard so that these upgraders also will receive the tankennan-PIC (barge) endorsement. This will mean that completing either course will enable Seafarers to secure the tankermanPI<; (barge) endorsement when renewing therr z-cards after March 31, 1997. The Coast Guard regulation creating the new tankerman-PIC (barge) endorsementprimarilystemfromtheOilPollution Act of 1990 and an international treaty known as the Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping. Proposed Inland Tankerman Classes Tankerman Recertification For b t h I d h Id · I d oa men w 0 a rea Y 0 in an tankerman endorsement and want new tankerman-PIC (barge) rating. 1-------------1--------------------11 Tankerman-PIC (barge) Original Replaces old inland tankerman class. For boatmen wanting to acquire new tankermanPIC (barge) endorsement. SIU Ships Support Bosnia Peacekeepers Continued from page 3 next morning," said Norfolk Port Agent Mike Paladino. He added that some Seafarers were from New York, "and the rest came from the Norfolk area. The members were all happy to do the job, happy to get the work and show they could come through on such short notice," Paladino observed. ''They all turned to when they were called." The Cape Race departed Virginia on December3, whiletheCapeRiseleftaday later. The vessels delivered cargo to support Dutch and British soldiers who are among the tens of thousands of men and women (including U.S. troops) participating in the mission. For a numberofthe SIU members who made the most recent voyages to Bosnia and Croatia, the journey is familiar. That is because the Cape Race also was activated last June for a two-month mission known as Operation Quick Lift to support the deployment of NATO forces in the war-tom countries. (NATO, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, was created after World War II as a support mechanism to maintain peace in Europe. The United States, Canada and nations of Western Europe are among its members.) Many of the Seafarers who took part in that operation also sailed in the current venture, dubbed Operation Joint Endeavor. In fact, just one month before the most recent call-up, crewmembers from the Cape Race were honored by MarAd for their efforts in crewing and sailing the vessel for Operation Quick Lift. Bosnia is located in southeastern Europe near the Adriatic Sea in the former Yugoslavia. Fighting raged in the mountainous region for years between Bosnian Serbs, Croats and Muslims. NATO now aims to enforce a peace treaty reached last month by the warring factions. �JANUARY 1996 SEAFARERS LOG 5 New 3-Year l'act Reached Far C.6. Willis Boatmen SIU boatmen who navigate C.G. Willis Barge Lines tugboats and barges along the A tlan tic Intracoastal Waterway have ratified a new contract that improves wages, benefits and working conditions into 1998. Included in the pact for the first time is outpatient medical coverage for the spouses and dependents of SIU members who sail aboard the three family-owned tugboats. The Seafarers also will benefit from wage increases and improved working conditions throughout the life of the agreement, which wentintoeffectNovember 1. Joint negotiations were conducted between the company and representatives of the SIU and the American Maritime Officers (AMO) at the firm's headquarters in Paulsboro, N.J. The SIU represents the captains, deckhands and mates aboard the tugs Patricia, C.G. Willis and Chauncey; AMO represents the engineers. Delegates to the negotiations included Deckhand Scott Lamb, Captain Steve Waters, Engineer David Harris, SIU Assistant Vice President David Heindel and AMO Representative Robert Kiefer. "Negotiations went very well. It was an interesting experience to be a part of ironing out a new contract," recalled Lamb, who sails aboard the Patricia. "I think we got a good contract and I really appreciate the insight that being a part of the negotiating process gave me," Lamb added. "Many of our guys were really pulling for the medical coverage for their wives and children. I feel good that we were able bring back a contract that many of us will benefit from." Deckhands aboard the tugboats make up the barges, handle all lines and help in docking operations. The captains and mates aboard the tugs navigate the vessels, ensuring that the cargo is delivered safely. The principal ports to which the tugboats sail are Paulsboro; Philadelphia; Wilmington, Del.; Baltimore; Hampton Roads, Va.; Georgetown and Charleston, S.C.; Savannah and Brunswick, Ga. and Jacksonville, Fla. Cargoes transported on the barges inelude steel, coke, ores, slag, fertilizers, stone, steel scrap and various specialty items such as fabricated steel structures and heavy machinery. Photo© 1995 John McGrail Seafarers move the Liberty and Maritrans 300 down the Delaware River to lighter fuel from large tankers at the Big Stone Anchorage in the Delaware Bay and transport it to refineries in the Philadelphia area. Seafarers Crew New Tug/Barge For Maritrans Lightering Fleet Refurbished with a double hull and a new design that allows the unit to sail without lines and cables, the SIU-crewed tug Liberty and barge Maritrans 300 began operations for Maritrans last fall. In mid-October, following major renovations in a Mobile, Ala. shipyard, the unit began lightering crude oil from large tankers at the Big Stone Anchorage in the Delaware River and transporting the petroleum to refineries in the port of Philadelphia. • "I'm very impressed with all the upgrades to the new barge. It is really state-of-the-art," noted ABffankerman Bill Lehew who, with other crewmemhers, had been aboard the tug and barge for rev~alweebprim~com~etion~the refurbishing to familiarize themselves with the new unit. ''This is one of the largest barges in the entire fleet. We can take on up to 260,000 barrels of fuel and 70,000 barrels of ballast. The new design allows for the steady transfer of the petroleum without movement by the unit. It really is nice," added Lehew, a 1977 Piney Point graduate. Seafarers boarded the Liberty and Maritrans 300 before the combination left the shipyard. "As renovations neared completion, we got the entire crew on both the tug and the barge so that they could become intimately familiar with the inner workings of both. The more you are educated, the better you can perform your specific job," said Jeff King, a vice president of operations for Maritrans. Built in 1979, the barge was purchased by Maritrans in late 1994 and refurbished to comply with the latest laws and regulations affecting the industry. In addition to the new design, which allows the tug and barge to act as one unit without attaching lines and cables, other modifications ineluded lightering fenders and steel repairs. ''The unit as a whole has been com- After completing work on a new three-year contract for C.G. Willis boatmen, the SIU pletely modi~ed to fit all U.S. C?~st Guard negotiating committee poses in the Philadelphia hall. The team includes Deckhand standards. It is an excellent add1t10n to our Scott Lamb (center), SIU Assistant Vice President David Heindel (second from right) lightering fleet. It is large enough that an and Captain Steve Waters (right). They are joined by AMO Representative Robert Kiefer entire ship lightering can be completed (left) and Engineer David Harris, who also took part in the negotiations. wilh one m two barg~ where~ with~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ smaller units more than two are needed to Making a Fender for "Little Toot" finish the job," King noted. As the second largest barge owned by the Philadelphia-based company, the Maritrans 300 is 585-feet long and has a double hull. In addition to the barge renovations, the tug Liberty had to have its upper wheelhouse raised to handle the larger unit. Maritrans, whichoperatesafleetoftugboats and ocean-going tank barges, is the largest independent U.S.-flag marine transporter of petroleum products in the Gulf and Atlantic coastal trade. Following extensive renovations to the Liberty and Maritrans 300 in a Mobile, Ala. Prior to its first voyage, ABfTankerman Bill shipyard, ABfTankerman Bill Lehew loads Jacobs takes linens aboard the Liberty. fresh stores aboard the Liberty. Lundeberg School students from class 539 of the entry level training program practice the intricate rope work involved in making a fender for one of the school's training vessels, Little Toot. From the left are Orlando Sierra, Justin Vieira and Josh Cannizzaro. �6 SEAFARERS LOS JANUARY 1996 .. ,.., -· ·- ~ ./dt .t//oll / ~· . he heavy tan cover is stained and worn, carrying lumber. Goren also sailed during T but the smooth, white pages beneath it World War II. belie their age. He acquired the book from another Yet the writing inside confirms that the 17-by-10-inch log, simply titled "SHIPS CASH," is 92 years old. This historic book lists the expenses of dozens of lumber-carrying steam schooners that sailed on the West Coast and to Hawaii between January 1904 and November 1907. Apparently kept by an accountant in Arcata, Calif. (now a small lumber milling town in the northern part of the state, roughly 80 miles south of Oregon) during its use, the chronicle this month will become the property of the Paul Hall Memorial Library at the Harry Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. Retired SIU Port Agent Joe Goren, a former longtime member of the Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S), is donating the volume. . "I've had it for about 10 years. But I realized I am not going to be around forever, so I thought I'd better send it now," the 75-year-old former chief steward and chief cook said with a laugh. "It's really a wonderful book. I read it over and over, I showed it to every seaman I knew, and now I want those documents to be with the SIU rather than (giving it to) a local museum. The SIU means a lot more to me." Goren sailed from 1938 to 1953 before coming ashore as an MC&S port agent in Los Angeles from 1953 until 1978, when that union merged with the SIU. He then worked as an SIU port agent for two years before retiring. His sailing career mostly consisted of runs between the West Coast and Alaska, including one trip on a wooden schooner MC&S retiree, Bill Meagher, who in turn had received it from a friend "who didn't know the value of it, but knew an old seaman might," explained Goren. "The book was discovered in Arcata, but I don't know who kept it or where it was kept prior to the mid-1980s. Bill gave it to me just becausehe'safriendandheknewlwould Among the expenditures listed are treasure it." payoffs and advances to crews, stores, The primary bookkeeper apparently telegrams, taxes, tolls, shipowners aswas hired by several companies whose sociation dues and payments to chandlers ships carried lumber during the early for materials such as canvas and rope. 1900s. Nearly all the handwriting is from Additionally, several references are one person, and he or she kept records of made to Crowley tug and launch services, expenses (based on mailed receipts) the which were used by some of the lumber ships incurred up and down the coast. ships. The launch service was a forerunner .-------------------------------. When 17-year-old Joe Goren headed for the Seattle waterfront in 1938, he had no idea that he was about to begin a lifelong maritime career. ''The adventure of it led me there, kind of wanderlust, I guess. Plus my father died when I was 15, and I wanted to make some income for my mother," recalled Goren, who will turn 76 this year. "But I sure didn't think I'd stick with it my whole life." Nevertheless, he joined the Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S, which merged with the SIU 40 years later) and started a 15-year routine of going to • sea, including voyages to the South Pacific during World War II. "I also was supposed to go to the Okinawa invasion. But I was on an old Hog Islander (a ship built during World War I) that was so slow, [the U.S. military] decided they didn't want us because we'd hold up the convoy," Goren remembered with a chuckle. "So they took all our food, leaving us enough to get back to California. That night, we ran across a Japanese submarine that was refueling, so we turned and headed back (to an Allied-secured area) as fast as we could go." In 1953, Goren became the MC&S port agent in Los Angeles. He held that position for the union through its merger with the SIU in 1978, and stayed on the job until his retirement in 1980. "When we were about to merge, (then-SIU president) Paul Hall called me and talked to me. I said, 'Paul, you don't have to convince me. I want to join the SIU!' I knew him well," Goren said. Goren also served as the first president of the San Pedro Port Council of the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department (MTD} in the mid-1950s. That port council later merged with the one in San Diego. These days, the former galley gang member is spending his retirement in Rancho Palos Verdes, Calif. with his wife, Norma. They live a few miles from the SIU hall in Wilmington, and Goren still visits the hall and stays abreast of matters affecting the U.S. maritime industry. "Once [maritime] is in your blood, you never really leave it," he explained. of the present SIU-contracted Crowley Maritime Corp. ''The names of the ships that carried the lumber are mostly Hawaiian-Mahuhone, Koko-head and La.hania, for example," observed Goren. "In those years, Hawaii was building up, so lots oflumber was sent there. "But by the time I sailed, 90 percent of it just went up and down the coast. The lumber at the mills was cut in different sizes and placed on the schooners. Winches would lift and drop the lumberon the docks." Goren added that Arcata's port business eventually was eliminated by competition from railroads. "But when that port was busy, 10 or 12 ships would call there in a day." The former port agent said he did not do anything special to preserve the expense book. "I kept it on a bookshelf and I didn't let anybody fool with it. That's all," he noted. While all the vessels listed in the ledger now are out of existence, Goren said he hopes active and retired Seafarers will enjoy the book as much as he did. "It was history for me, and I think it will brink back a few memories for some other people, as well as showing a part of history to the younger generations." Lumber-carrying steam schooners, like the one pictured here, were prevalent on the West Coast in the early 1900s. �JANUARY 1996 SEAFARERS LOG "F Gains Back Pay For Stranded Crew On Bahamian Ship More than 250 crewmembers from 38 countries stranded aboard a runaway-flag cruise ship received their back pay and repatriation funds following intervention by SIU Representative Spiro Varras. Besides working with the union, Varras serves as an inspector for the International Transport Workers Federation (ITF), a London-based organization made up of more than 400 transport unions located throughout the world. (The SIU is a member of the ITF.) The seafarers sector of the federation works to improve the lives and working conditions of mariners, particularly those aboard runaway-flag ships. Runaway-flag vessels are those registered in nations that operate ship registries with lower safety and working standards than those of traditional maritime countries, like the U.S. The runaway registries provide ship owners with a method to escape tax payments and the ability to hire crews from anywhere in the world. Ship Arrested The crewmembers were sailing aboard the Bahamian-flag cruise ship Regent Rainbow when it tied up on October 27 in the port of Tampa, Fla. At that time, the vessel was arrested by U.S. marshals because the company that operated it, Regency Cruises of New York City, owed more than $800,000 to a food service firm. Regency Cruises then canceled all future voyages on the ship and two others in its fleet, the Regent Sun and Regent Sea. The crewmembers were left without any word of when they would receive their pay, acquire new jobs or be sent home. Also stranded on the docks were hundreds of passengers anticipating a two-day cruise in the Gulf of Mexico. Varras received a call from the Regent Rainbow asking him to intercede on the crew's behalf. "Everything had collapsed around them, and they did not know what to do," V arras recalled of his first meeting with the crew of the Regent Rainbow on October 31. Four-Day Process Varras discovered the crewmembers still aboard the cruise ship were trying to get nearly two months of wages, overtime and repatriation funds due them. Some of the crew had received promotions since signing on but had not seen an increase in their paychecks. He was involved in meetings with the crewmembers for 19hourshisfirstdayon the ship. When Varras telephoned Regency Cruises' office in New York, he was answered by a SIU Representative and ITF Inspector Spiro Varras (in suit) poses with the Greek officers of the Bahamianflag Regent Rainbow while working to obtain their pay after Regency Cruises shut down operations. recording that stated the business was not open. He was told the officers had contacted the Bahamian embassy for help, but no official appeared at the ship. After getting no response from the operating company or the Bahamian government, V arras contacted the ship's owner, Kawasaki of Japan, who started making arrangements for the crew's money. In the meantime, he advised the crew to stay aboard the Regent Rainbow because provisions for pay were being made. On November 2, the ship was notified that V.Ship's o{Monaco had been hired by Kawasaki to maintain the Regent Rainbow and take over all responsibilities associated with the vessel. Varras negotiated the overtime and backpay situation for the crew with the new management company. Later the same day, checks totaling nearly $420,000 arrived for those on board. Arrangements were made to send most of the crewmembers home. However, a skeletal crew remained aboard the Regent Rainbow to keep it in operating condition. Varras noted they have received their pay and provisions without any problems. According to Varras, Regency Cruises was being monitored by the ITF because crewmembers had complained previously about low wages and reduced safety standards on its vessels. The amounts the crewmembers received reflected the low rates paid to mariners on runaway-flag vessels. Copies of contracts collected by Varras showed the ship's electrician, who was from Poland, was to be paid a salary of $1,000 a month. A quartermaster from Indonesia had signed a contract for $440 a month. The monthly salary for a fire patrol member from Bulgaria was $400. All of these figures include Sunday and holiday pay. Paul Hall Center Begins 2nd Year of Tanker Safety Course The Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education this month kicks off its second year of offering the four-week tanker operation/safety course to up graders. Nearly 500 Seafarers completed the class in 1995. This year, the course again will be conducted in consecutive four-week blocks. The back-to-back course offerings will provide Seafarers with enrollment opportunities throughout the year. (For registration information and a schedule of upcoming classes, see page 23 of this issue of the Seafarers LOG. Additional information about the course appears in the special Paul Hall Center supplement, located on pages 11-14 in this edition.) Developed by instructors at the Paul Hall Center's Harry Lun- deberg School of Seamanship, the course features hands-on training and classroom instruction. It is designed primarily for Seafarers who sail aboard tankers, but is open to all SIU members. (Steward department members who sign up for the class are required to take only the first two weeks of the course.) Praised by Graduates Seafarers who took the course in '95 described it as informative and challenging. Many praised the practical training, while others noted the value of reviewing basic tanker construction and safety as well as the potential hazards involved in sailing aboard tankers. The course curriculum includes confined-space safety and rescue operations practical training Hands-on training is a key element of the Paul Hall Center's four-week tanker operation/safety class. Pictured above, upgraders work on the deck of a tank barge during an oil spill prevention seminar. aboard the Empress II, which is a part of the school's fleet of training vessels. Successfully completing this portion of the course results in Seafarers obtaining certification from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) via the school. Hands-On Training Upgraders also practice fittests using respirators and other breathing apparatus and emergency equipment as part of the tanker operation/safety class. Additionally, they review how to correctly monitor tanks for oxygen deficiency and take other meter readings with atmospheric monitoring gear. Another highlight cited by many students is learning how to use the "Chemical Data Guide for Bulk Shipment by Water" and the "Emergency Response Guidebook." Both publications are put out by the U.S. Department of Transportation and in part were created as aids for mariners. SIU members who take the course also are introduced to the chemical and physical properties of petroleum products, along with flammability traits, toxicity/asphyxiation characteristics and health hazards associated with exposure to petroleum products. Other topics and exercises include: • Creating site-specific shipboard safety plans. • Reviewing final rules on benzene products. • Troubleshooting and basic maintenance of monitoring gear. • Reviewing key points of the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (OPA '90). • An introduction to fire chemistry and other aspects of firefighting, including fire hazard awareness and identification; fire prevention via vapor control; fire prevention by ignition source control; fire extinguishing equipment; firefighting techniques and fire/emergency duties. Additional areas of study incl ude different t~pes of oils, medical surveillance, vessel oil pollution prevention, national pollution contingency plans, water pollution, water program requirements and removal of oil and other hazardous substances. Students also cover regional oil removal contingency plans; rules for protecting the marine environment; vessel pollution prevention equipment design and approval requirements; site safety, organization and coordination and more. Reminder: New Shipping Rule Gives Priority to Tanker Safety Course-Graduates Seafarers are reminded that a change in the shipping rules took effect the first of the year regarding members who have graduated from the tanker operation/safety course. The Seafarers Appeals Board (SAB) last year promulgated a change in the shipping rules as a result of agreements reached during contract negotiations in 1993 between the SIU and its contracted tanker companies. As of January 1, 1996, SAB Action #376 gives priority (within each level of seniority) for jobs aboard tank vessels to Seafarers who successfully complete the tanker operation/safety course, for as long as the course is being offered. Priority Given For instance, if two A-book members each throw in for an AB job aboard a tanker, but only one has completed the tanker operation/safety course, then the member who graduated from the course would get the job, all other things being equal. The change is intended "to enhance and protect the job security of the membership," according to the SAB. Consistent with those objectives, one of the course's main goals is illustrating the need to prevent oi] 8pills, shipboard fires and other potential problems related to tanker operations. The curriculum emphasizes that such prevention is important from safety and environmental standpoints, as well as because a single hazardous materials marine disaster can cost literally hundreds of millions of dollars. 7 �8 SEAFARERS LOG JANUARY 1996 Standing oh tlje dee~ of the Westward t enture, at left, reC\dY to begin ; ures ~1'1\the port of ~nchar,~ge is AB Ken Craft. At right, docki,.,Q;i · su dderlytmspects the Imes aboard the Westward Venture to have not been damaged byJ he severe weathef,:,.between and Anohora ~. Alaska. ¥;.# ·~ :~ ,. I . . ;I ~ ,.<;.I Icy Waters Prove No Match For Westward Venture AB Tom Banks throws a line from the Westward Venture to the shore in Anchorage. While much of the nation struggles with January's plummeting temperatures and blankets of snow and ice, Seafarers aboard the Westward Venture, a Totem Ocean Trailer Express (TOTE) roll-on/roll-off vessel, continue to shuttle cargo-laden trucks and trailers to and from Alaska while battling the sub-zero temperatures they have faced for months. Because such conditions can be dangerous for both the vessel and its crew, Bosun Michael Kadderly and members of the deck department take exceptional care of the deck by attempting to keep it clear of snow and ice as well as taking other special safety precautions in docking and undocking the vessel in Anchorage-a tedious task which can take up to 10 hours in the ice-filled port. Departing from Tacoma, Wash., the Westward Venture makes its way to the 49th state to deliver everything from food and machinery to circus animals for special events. The Westward Venture and its sister ships, the Northern Lights and Great Land, are designed to carry freight of various types and dimensions. They can handle machinery, tractors and military equipment as well as containers and trailers. Upon leaving Tacoma, the Westward Venture sails through the Puget Sound and the Strait of Juan de Puca into the North Pacific Ocean. The vessel then must venture into the frigid waters of the Gulf of Alaska and Cook Inlet before reaching the port of Anchorage. With a cruising speed of 24 knots, the Westward Venture makes the voyage in an average of 66 hours. Two or three times a year, TOTE sponsors a "Crew Appreciation Dinner'' aboard the Westward Venture and its other ships to thank the crew for doing a good job in the sometimes adverse conditions between Tacoma and Anchorage. During a recent run, the company provided crewmembers with lobster, shrimp, salmon and T-bone steaks for the special dinner. Chief Steward Rick Sanderson and members of the galley gang prepared the entrees (as well as several special homemade desserts), and crewmembers enjoyed the elaborate dinner in style while sailing to the northwest comer of North America to deliver their varied cargo. Enjoying lobster, shrimp, salmon and t-bone steaks during a recent "Crew Appreciation Dinner" are Bosun Mike Kadderly (left), AB Ken Craft (middle) and SA Mike Curley. Galley gang members stop to pose for a photo while preparing a "Crew Appreciation Dinner." From the left are Saloon Messman Ali Muther, Chief Steward Rick Sanderson, Chief Cook Rang Nguyen and SA Saleh Alsinia. GUDE Nasser Ali adjusts a valve in the engineroom aboard the Westward Venture. Checking the refrigerated trailers Working to keep the Westward F/ aboard the vessel is Chief Venture's decks clear of dangerous OMU Jim Smart checks the gauges in the engineroom. Electrician Chris Cunningham. ice is AB Rich Patek. Cleaning cargo gear aboard the roll-on/roll-off vessel is GUDE Sal Nasser. �SEAFARERS LOG JANUARY 1996 Up §AllowsGal~~~be~ To Prepare for Future Holidays venture in his life. Upon graduating from his upgrading class, Grey plans to head west and prepare for his February 24 wedding. Part of the training he is receiving at the Lundeberg School will allow the galley gang member to "make my own wedding cake." If all goes well, he will transport the cake from his home in Flagstaff, Ariz. to the wedding site in Las Vegas. Following the wedding, he and his bride will have a few days together before he ships out. Grey noted the cook/baker upgrading class at the Lundeberg School is preparing him with new recipes and dishes that he plans to serve to cerwmembers when he returns to sailing. "I am learning a lot while in Piney Point. I can't wait to cook for others and try out my new skills." While Grey made plans to celebrate with family during early 1996, Chief Cook Thomas Cyrus spent Christmas at home and upgraded at the same time. His family lives in Southern Maryland, just a few miles from the Paul Hall Center. Cyrus considers himself for- - - tunate to be able to be home for the holidays. Since joining the union in 1989, he has experienced several holidays at sea. "It can be lonely," Cyrus recalled. "The steward department plays a big part in keeping spirits up during this period by making special dishes and treats." Among the items he enjoys preparing for fellow crewmembers are prime rib, seafood, cheese cakes and pastries. Like Cyrus, Chief Cook Carmelita Henry does not need a special reason for cooking. She enjoys preparing meals for others. "Growing up, I was always around food," Henry recalled. Her first jobs were in food-related businesses. The Philadelphia native also enjoyed being near the ocean. So, when she chose a career, she put her two loves together. "I decided to do the things I desired as a child-cooking and going to sea. Five steward department members who upgraded during December took time from their busy course schedules to share some of their thoughts about the holidays and shipping. To these Seafarers, and for many others, the holidays represent a time of the year when they can create special dishes and meals for their fellow crewmembers. For Cook/Baker Edward Grey, the skills he is acquiring at the school in Piney Point, Md. are just a stepping stone for a new "I joined the SIU in 1991 and have not looked back," Henry added. She, too, realizes what it means to spend the holidays at sea. Among her seasonal specialties for crewmembers are "exotic dishes, cranberry bread, canapes. I like to make everything nice and delicious. It makes the crewmembers feel special." No stranger to the galley during her lifetime is Chief Cook Deborah Koen. Growing up in a large family in Mobile, Ala., she started cooking at age 7. "That's all I knew-how to cook," she remembered. She not only prepared meals for her family, but also was involved in kitchen activities for her church and other groups. When Koen first sailed in 1990, she stated she did not know what to expect. She still thanks Chief Steward Kyle White for showing her the ropes and teaching her how to be a good member of the galley gang. Shortly after that initial trip, Koen signed on aboard the prepositioning ship PFC Dwayne T. Williams, where she spent the holidays serving in Operation Desert Storm. She learned what it was like being away from home and how the steward department plays a major role in lifting the spirits of a crew. Among her holiday specialties are "cookies of all kinds-and I bake a BAD sweet potato pie," Koen says with pride. Another upgrader at the Lundeberg School learning more about what he can do in the galley is Steward Malcolm Holmes. Holmes also has combined his love for the sea and for cooking into a career with the SIU. Holmes gives his mother the credit for teaching him how to cook. Coming from New Orleans may explain why he specializes in cajun foods like gumbo, red beans and rice, and jambalaya. However, for those not accustomed to the spices of Louisiana, Holmes enjoys making turkey, prime rib and apple and pecan pies for the holidays. Specialties for Holiday Seasoning Steward department upgraders take advantage of their time together at the Lundeberg School during the holidays to swap recipes and learn how to make special dishes. Among the specialties discovered by galley gang members this year are the three listed below, according to Chef Allan Sherwin, who oversees classroom and galley training of steward department upgraders at the school. The Seafarers WG would like to hear from other stewards, as well as from any other members who enjoy cooking, with their favorite recipes. The LOG will publish these in a future issue. Bacon Wrapped Scallops Yield: 25 Scallops 25 sea scall<?ps, large ked and cut in half 13 bacon st_nps pre-coo 3 oz. rice wine vinegar 3 oz. bourbon or rum 1 oz. sugar 1 t. cornstarch d d Marinate scallops Method: Rinse scallop~ an pat :J.·and cornstarch for in rice wine vinegar, lizu~';;lt:Jin a half strip of baco_n one hour. Then roll ea~ s ick. Di each scallop m and fasten sec'!rely wl ith) tc:iJ~~ke in oJ'enfor 20 minutes sauce (see recipe be ow a at 375 degrees. sauce for Scallops 3 oz. honey 3 oz. brown sugar 2 oz. Dijon mustard 2 oz. rum or bourbon 1 T. soy sauce . each scallop prior to baking Mix all ingredients ~nd co:J hicken livers can be subin oven. Note: Shrimp a c stituted for scallops. crabmeat Balls Yield: 24 balls 1 lb. backfin crabmeat (pick~~ ~~~~a~~ and shell) 2 oz onions finely diced . 1 oz: green pepper, ~inely diced 2 oz. celery, finely diced 1 T. parsley, finely chopped 3 oz. cracker meal 3 whole eggs . t Old Bay seasoning - to tas e Pepper flakes - to taste Tabasco sauce -da~h 2 ounces .· 2 oz. heavy mayonnaise . ther Form into 1-ounce Method: Mix ~ll ingredients toge rme.al or bread crumb~. balls and ~oll i~ se~oned craC:,.~wn. Note: If mixture_ is Deep fry moil until gold~~ "t ·s too loose, tighten with too dry, add whole eggs. 'J i i cracker meal. crabmeat Salad Yield: 5 servings . crabmeat (picked well of all cartilage and shell) . 2 oz celery, finely diced . d 2 oz. green pepper, finely dice d 1 t. f~esh parsley, fine!Y choppe 4 oz. heavy mayonnaise 2 oz cream cheese Old Bay se~s~:ming - to taste Y2 t lemon 1u1ce . Red pepper flakes - pinch Cayenne pepper - dash . d. ts thoroughly. Chill well Method: Mix all mgr~ ie;alad is desired, add more before using. Ifdc~eami~r is wanted, decrease mayonmayonnaise. If rier mix naise. 1 lb.backf 1n ----· Adding her touch to some festive Preparing for a holiday meal at the Chief Cook Thomas Cyrus, who canapes is upgrading Chief Cook Lundeberg School is Steward sails from Piney Point, slices a Deborah Koen. Malcolm Holmes. ham during dinner preparations. 9 �10 SEAFARERS LOG JANUARY 1996 SIU Members, Companies Provide More Hurricane Relief Recovery from 'Marilyn' Is Ponderous Process in Virgin Islands Seafarers ap.d SIU-contracted Earlier, the unions joined in companies last month continued the AFL-CIO' s relief efforts conproviding relief for victims of ducted through the American Red Hurricane Marilyn in the U.S. Cross. Additionally, several Virgin Islands, including 4,000 UIW-contracted companies members of the United Industrial donated other food items, and a Workers (UIW), an SIU affiliate. number of individual members Although substantial progress who are employed at SIU headhas been made in the recovery quarters contributed clothing, from the storm-which hit the is- food and flashlights. lands of St. Thomas, St. Croix and In addition, several SIUSt. John in mid-September- crewed ships, including the complete restoration of water, Maersk Constellation, OM/ Star phone and electrical services on and Charles E. Brown, have St. Thomas (the hardest-hit of the delivered aid to the islands, inthree islands) will take many eluding fresh water and canned more months, as will repairs to food. The crew of the Brown also homes, businesses and govern- worked to help rebuild the ment buildings. The homes of telephone system on St. Thomas. many residents on St. Croix and "I would like to thank our St. John also still need repairs. union brothers who took time out "This is a long, long way from to see that some type of aid was over," said Warren Hendrickson, sent to the Virgin Islands," stated a UIW shop steward who lives Hugh Daly, an electrician and with his wife and their two sons UIW shop steward who lives on on St. Thomas. "Our house is un- St. Croix. livable, so we've been staying in Slow Recovery one bedroom (in the home of a Recent news articles reflect relative) and living out of a suitPhoto courtesy of Maersk case since the storm hit. . . . the slowness of the mending The SIU-crewed Maersk Constellation, operated by the U.S. Military Sealift Command, discharges Realistically, you can't give an process on the Caribbean islands. emergency aid cargo at St. Thomas following Hurricane Marilyn. estimated time of when things Reports advise readers about will be back to normal." "cooking without a stove," apply- some instances, unfair. Others since so many have in-ground ly undamaged, while others right Meanwhile, the SIU and UIW ing for "disaster loans," helping believe that local builders and swimming pools. He was looking next to them were wiped out or severely impacted. In some cases, continued their relief efforts last children cope with the storm's contractors are engaging in price- at the blue tarps from above. Meanwhile, in late November this was due to weather patterns; month when a container, whose aftermath, getting rid of ants and gouging, the articles state. In any case, there is no doubt and early December, some resi- but in others, the cause was difuse and transportation was roaches (which have a proclivity donated by Seafarers-contracted forinhabiting piles of debris), and that demand for construction dents quietly were celebra~ing the ferent design and construction. In light of that, the V.I. Crowley American Transport, disinfectingtapwater,justincase labor and materials now exceeds restoration of electricity to their respective homes. But they were government in October passed was delivered from Philadelphia contaminated ground water has supply. To date, most relief efforts on among the first to reacquire such legislation that bolsters building to St. Croix, via Puerto Rico. seeped into pipes. Marilyn battered St. Thomas St. Thomas have consisted of service; full electrical restoration codes in the territory. Seafarers in the port of San Juan, P.R. moved the container onto a and also hit St. Croix and St. John clearing debris, restoring electri- on St. Thomas is not expected FEMA is one of a dozen federal agencies or territorial ofCrowley barge. The trailer· con- on September 15. Total damage cal power as well as water and until sometime this month. Similarly, phone service will fices assisting in the reliefefforts. tained non-perishable foods, (including economic losses) on phone services, and covering not be restored completely until Others include the following water, cleaning supplies and the islands has been estimated at damaged roofs with tarpaulins. The blue tarpaulins, provided April, although 80 percent of the UIW -contracted offices, folchildren's footwear donated by more than $3.5 billion. Very little rebuilding has by FEMA, are part of a local lines are slated to be operational lowed by listings of the work they SIU members and SIU- and UIWtaken place on St. Thomas, which anecdote that illustrates the as of January 31. have performed: contracted companies. Although the wreckage on St. • Department of Public "We had the container here at has more than 50,000 residents. prevalence of roof damage. It the Philadelphia hall for about a According to local newspaper seems that in mid-November, a Thomas received most of the Works-cleared roads and coormonth so that people could make reports, many homeowners claim newly arriving guest marveled media coverage, Marilyn also dinated engineering, utilities and donations," noted SIU Patrolman that insurance payments have from a helicopter that most St. forced hardships on thousands of construction services to affected been frustratingly slow and, in Thomas residents must be wealthy, residents on the other U.S. Virgin government agencies; Joe Soresi . . . - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Islands whose homes were ruined • Virgin Islands Port AuthorRenewing Friendships in the New York Hall or damaged. On St. Croix and St. ity-lead agency for repair of airJohn, many homes still need port and port facilities; repairs, some traffic lights remain • Department of Human SerWhile waiting to ship out, many out, and not all phone lines have vices-managed Individual and Seafarers have time to catch up been restored. Family Grant Program for hurwith former shipmates and find out the new things that are hap"You hear about it and you see ricane victims, plus operation of pening in their lives. In photo at it on TV, but it's north~ same as emergency food stamp disburseright, posing in front of the shipli vi ng it," said Karen Encar- ment program. ping board in the New York hall nacion, a UIW shop steward on As for what is open on St. are (from left) SA Luis GonSt. Croix. "Roofs were flying like Thomas, oruy a few hotels-inzalez, Wiper Maurice Ayuso, a genie's carpet during the storm. eluding the UIW-contracted SA Edison Rodriguez and SA Trees that had stood for years Ramada-are operational, and Jerson Toro. In photo below, were uprooted. It's amazing what even those are undergoing or in taking a break from ·their connature can do." need of repair. As of November versations are (from left) SA 27, all public schools had Rodrigo Jimenez, AB Victor Damage Varies reopened. The downtown area, Ojea, AB Igor Kravtchenko, One of Marilyn's oddities is remarkably, is almost fully funcChief Cook Julio Guity, AB that, on all three islands, some tional, and most roads on the isRoberto Flores and SA Wilfredo Zuniga. buildings survived the storm virtual- land have been restored. Twisted steel beams are all that remain of a grocery store in St. Thomas following the wrath of Hurricane Marilyn. �SEAFARERS LOS JANUARY 1996 11 This handy version of the Lundeberg School's catalog is printed in the Seafarers LOG as a convenience to SIU members. Please keep for reference. 1996 Lundeberg School Course Guide As the 21st century rapidly expanded to help Seafarers approaches, new technologies when they return to their vesand machines are repla.cing the : sels. The calendar of cla.sses ways many American busifor the new year appears on nesses have operated for page 14. However, courses decades. and class dates are subject to The maritime industry is no change due to manpower stranger to these changes. needs of SIU-contracted Sea/arers-whether they sail operators. Seafarers should on a deep sea containership, an consult the la.test issue of the Seafarers LOG for the most inland tug and barge or a Great Lakes ore carrier-have a up-to-datescheduleofclasses. powerful tool for dealing with Listed in this guide is a these advancements and inbriefsummaryofthecourses . being offered in the deck, ennovations. That tool is the Paul Hall Cen- The instructors at the Paul Hall Center's Lundeberg School offer upgrading Seafarers the latest gine and s tewa~d departter for Maritime Training and information through classroom and hands-on training in a beautiful campus-like setting in Piney Point, Md. ments as well as inland and Education in Piney Point, Md. specialty courses. The basic Seafarers who upgrade their skills at the center's Harry Lundeberg School eligibility for upgraders includes 120 days seatime in the previous year and of Seamanship receive the very ·latest information through classroom and one day seatime in the la.st six months prior to the date the class starts. If the hands-on training. Thanks to a wide variety of courses available during the course mandates a U.S. Coast Guard test to acquire the endorsement, the year, deck, engine and steward department members can find the class and upgrader must meet all Coast Guard requirements prior to taking the class. time that best.fits into their schedules. Some courses have other specific requirements which are printed in bold. The school is available to all Seafarers. Courses reflect the needs of deep For more information about the school or any of its courses, contact the Admissions Office, Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, sea, inland and Great Lakes members. The 1996 curriculum reflects both new courses and others that have been P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075 or call (301) 994-0010. Deck Departntent Courses Able Seaman This nine-week course leads to endorsement as an able seaman (AB). It consists of hands-on training and. classroom work covering deck seamanship, rules of the road, marlinespike seamanship, helmsmanship, cargo handling, safety, firefighting, emergency procedures, first aid, underway and vertical replenishment, and crane and forklift truck operations. The course also includes extensive sections on oil spill containment and cleanup, as well as sealift operations and maintenance. Students must have a lifeboat ticket in order to take the AB course. Ufeboat/Water Survival Students in this two-week course can earn lifeboatman certification by passing a U.S. Coast Guard exam at the end of the class. Featuring a mix of practical training and classroom instruction, the course covers emergency drills, lifeboat construction, lifeboat launching and recovery, basic compass navigation, life raft construction, life raft launching and maintenance, and use of all lifeboat and life raft equipment. Additionally, students learn different survival methods and the use of emergency radio and distress signals. A minimum of three hours per day is spent outdoors in lifeboats conducting practical exercises such as rowing/coxswain training and davit operations. UmHed Ucense/Ucense Prep . . Ai.m~d at prepann~ student~ to. test for any limited t?nnage license, t.h1s s1x-~e~k course consists of cla.ssroom. ms~ruct1on m all areas .of terrestnal nav1gat10~, d~ck ~eama~sh1p, ~~les of the road,. sh1pbu1ld- ing, ship stability, cargo handling, federal regulations, first aid, CPR and firefighting. Students must have an AB endorsement and 540 days of seatime on an SIU-contracted vessel OR equivalent inland experience in order to take the limited license/license prep exam. Celestial Navigation --------------The six-week course covers the areas of celestial navigation required for licensing as a second or third mate unlimited and Steward Department Courses for all limited licenses. Students are in- Assistant Cook/Cook and Baker structed in latitude observations by sun This 12-week course combines classand Polaris, celestial running fixes by sun, stars and planets, compass error by room instruction with on-the-job training amplitutde and azumuth, star iden- and other practical exercises. During the assistant cook section, tificaiton, and care and use of the sextant. topics covered are the preparation, cookBridge Management ing and serving of vegetables, cooked salads, sandwiches, breakfast foods and The U.S. Coast Guard-approved night lunches. Emphasis is placed on the shiphandling simulator course provides basics of food preparation, including realistic bridge watchstanding training for sanitation, dietary values, work organizadeck personnel aboard both deep sea and tion, weighing and measuring, and the use inland vessels. of recipes. Successful completion of this two-week Topics covered during the cook and course is accepted as credit for 60 days of baker section include the baking of breads, seatime on vessels of unlimited tonnage. Special areas of skills development in- rolls, pies, cakes, cookies and breakfast c I u de general shiphandling and pastries. Students also focus on dessert helmsmanship, river and channel transits, and breakfast preparations. entering and departing various ports, coastal navigation, U.S. Navy-related opera- Chief Cook tions such as convoy and underway Leading to certification as a chief cook, replenishment, hawser towing, pushboat this 12-week class is designed to help stutowing and emergency shiphandling. dents fine-tune their skills by learning and practicing some of the more difficult Radar Observer/UnlimHed aspects of the art of cooking. Topics inThe one-week radar observer/unlimited clude cooking methods, seasonings and class leads to a radarobserver endorsement flavorings, recipe and menu planning, stocks, sauces and soups, meat and that is good on vessels of any tonnage. Approved by the U.S. Coast Guard, the game, poultry, seafood, starches, course features hands-on training and class- vegetables, breakfasts, salads, room work, including radar theory, observa- sandwiches and hors d'oeuvres. tion, operation and use, interpretation and Students also focus on nutrition and plotting, advanced radar plotting, collision diet, with special emphasis on low-fat and avoidance and navigational exercise. low-salt cooking. Students operate modern audio-visual and radar simulation gear, as well as the Chief Steward full shiphandling simulator, as they pracThis 12-week course includes classtice controlling and maneuvering a vessel, plotting courses and safely guiding a ship room instruction supplemented by on-thewithout jeopardizing the safety of other jo b training. Menu planning, work vessels. Also included are practical exer- organization, typing, inventory control and cises and lectures covering inland water- requisitioning procedures are among the way and river navigation and piloting. topics covered. Sanitation, nutrition and safety also are highlighted. Third Mate Leadership and communication skills - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - also are stressed in the intensive 12-week Upgraders in the third mate course will course. study all subject areas found on the U.S. Eligibility requirements for steward Coast Guard License exam for third mate. The 16-week curriculum includes instruc- department courses: ·tion in all areas of terrestrial navigation, deck seamanship, rules of the road, shipbuilding, ship stability, cargo handling, federal regulations, first aid, CPR and firefighting. OR Students must have 12 months sailing in the steward department. • Chief Cook Students must have one year of seatime sailing in any rating above steward assistant and hold a certificate of completion for the Paul Hall Center's new Assistant Cook/Cook Baker program OR Students must have two years of seatime sailing in the steward department OR Students must have equivalent experience to be evaluated by the director of the steward department and the admissions office. • Chief Steward Students must have three years of seatime sailing in the steward department, with at least one year as chief cook (school time wilfcount toward the one year) OR Students must have two years of seatime in the steward department and hold a Paul Hall Center certificate of completion for the chief cook course OR Students must have equivalent experience to be evaluated by the director of the steward department and the admissions office. • Assistant Cook/Cook Baker Students must have eight months sailing in the steward department and Classroom instruction combined with onhold a certificate of completion for the the-job training is part of the steward department curriculum. Paul Hall Center entry rating program �12 SEAFARERS LOG En~ne JANUARY 1996 Department Courses and a wide variety of other shipboard sys- Marine Electronics Tech I & II tems. The curriculum for certification and enThe marine electronics technician proUpon completion of the course, a Lundorsement as a Qualified Member of the deberg School certificate of graduation will be gram consists of two six-week courses Engine Department (QMED)-Any Rating issued. which are run consecutively. Students may consists of a 12-week course leading to the take the entire program in one stay or take the two courses of study separately. Topics following ratings: pumpman, refrigeration Basic Electronics engineer, electrician, machinist, deck en- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - · included in the course are AC and DC gineer, junior engineer and deck engine Designed to help Seafarers develop an circuits, active and passive components, mechanic. understanding of what goes on inside the amplifiers, power suplies, antenna sysThe course of instruction leading to an electronic boxes found aboard ship, this tems, satellite and radar systems, endorsement in each of these ratings con- four-week course covers principles of microprocessor control systems, digital sists of classroom work as well as practical analog electronics, active devices and control systems and systems troubleshoottraining. basic digital electronics. The student also ing. will learn all aspects of circuit diagrams, and the instructor will work with each stu- Power Plant Maintenance Diesel Engine Technology dent individually to ensure a working This four-week course, leading to cer- knowledge of all shipboard electronic The majority of this new, six-week tification in diesel engine technology, con- devices. course features hands-on training, coversists of classroom instruction and ing a variety of topics. Some classroom hands-on training. Topics of instruction in- Marine Elecbical work also is included. Subjects include clude diesel engine theory; two- and four- Maintenance I pipefitting, thermal insulation, valve repair, stroke cycle operating principles; and the pump repair/overhaul, hydraulic system The six-week course of instruction lead- repair, drilling/machine thread fabrication, constfuction, operation, maintenance, repair and troubleshooting of low-, ing to certification in Marine Electrical use of various epoxies and similar commedium- and high-speed diesel engines. Maintenance I consists of practical training pounds for emergency and temporary Also covered are associated auxiliaries and classroom instruction aimed at provid- repairs, maintenance of power transmisincluding intake and exhaust systems, ing the basic skills required of shipboard sion equipment (such as flexible coulubrication and cooling systems, and fuel electricians. The range of topics includes plings), use of proper oils and greases for basic electrical theory, DC and AC circuits, bearing maintenance and lubrication, injection and starting systems. Students receive practical training in the electrical safety, electrical test equipment reconditioning shell and tube heat exoperation and repair of diesel engines on and troubleshooting, electrical protective changers, centrifugal lube oil/fuel oil and switching devices, electrical wiring purifier maintenance, and removal of board school training vessels. Course entry requirements are diagrams and schematics, control and heavy equipment in the engineroom. QMED-Any Rating or equivalent inland power circuits, batteries, AC generation and distribution equipment, transformers, Pumproom Maintenance experience. lighting systems and fixtures, galley and Leading to certification in pumproom Fireman/Watertender and Oiler miscellaneous heating equipment, singlespeed AC motors and across-the-line maintenance and operations, this twoThis 11-week course leading to endor- starters, and wiring techniques. week class includes hands-on training and sement as fireman/watertender and oiler classroom work. The curriculum consists of (FOWT) features new and expanded segcargo properties and emergency proceMarine Electrical ments of hands-on training, as well as dures, operation and maintenance of valves II Maintenance classroom instruction. Topics covered inand pumps, loading procedures, cargo pump clude the parts of a boiler, engineroom Aimed at providing the more advanced operations, cargo measurement, dischargequipment, engineroom procedures, skills required of the shipboard electrician, ing procedures, ballasting procedures, tank operating auxiliary equipment, this six-week course features hands-on cleaning, inert gas systems and more. watchstanding, starting and securing main training and classroom instruction and Upon completion of the course, a Lunengines, firefighting, first aid, safety proce- leads to certification in Marine Electrical deberg School certificate of graduation will be dures, sealift operations, oil spill prevention Maintenance II. issued. and containment and more. Among the subjects covered are interIn order to take this class, students The class prepares students for U.S. pretation of the National Electrical Code, Coast Guard general safety, oiler and specialized electrical test equipment, ad- must already have taken the four-week Tanker Operation/Safety course fireman/watertender tests. vanced application of circuit protection and QMED-Any Rating I Hydraulics The curriculum in the four-week hydraulics course blends practical training with classroom work. Fluids, actuators, control devices, pumps, reservoirs, symbols and hydraulic systems in marine equipment are among the subjects covered in this class. Also addressed are principles of electrical control of hydraulic systems, cargo winches, deck cranes, anchor windlasses, ships' steering systems, ramps, fire doors switching devices, relay logic, complex control circuits, DC and AC generators, voltage regulators, electrical distribution hardware, DC motors and controllers, AC motors and controllers, deck machinery, motor generator sets, converters, inverters and rectifiers, electric propulsion systems and interior communications systems. Also, the course will include an introduction to solid state electronic controls and their applications, and the general maintenance responsibilities of the electrician, as well as troubleshooting and repair. ponents, accessories, cycle controls, refrigerants and oils , and applied electricity. Standard service techniques are emphasized, such as the operation, troubleshooting and maintenance of ships' stores plants, air conditioning plants, cargo ventilation and dehumidifying equipment, as well as pantry refrigerators, water coolers and ice machines. Hands-on shop training includes the complete fabrication of a working refrigeration system from basic system components. An introduction to refrigerated container units also is presented. Students must be certified as QMEDAny Rating or have equivalent inland experience or hold Coast Guard endorsements as refrigeration engineer and electrician In order to enroll for this course. Refrigerated Containers This four-week course leads to certification in refrigerated containers maintenance and consists of both classroom and practical shop training. The training experience enables students to assume the duties of a maintenance electrician on board ships carrying refrigerated containers. Students receive training in all phases of refrigerated container unit operation, maintenance, repair and troubleshooting. This includes the various types of engines, refrigeration and electrical systems. The course is designed to help students develop a systematic approach to troubleshooting, as well as to acquaint them with specific maintenance procedures. Welding --------------Classroom instruction and on-the-job training comprise this four-week course, which features practical training in electric arc welding and cutting and oxy-acetylene brazing, welding and cutting. Upon completion of the course, a Lundeberg School certificate of graduation will be issued. Third Assistant Engineer (described on next page) and be cerThe course of instruction leading to tified as a QMED-Any Rating or have equivalent inland experience, or hold licensing as a third assistant engineer consists of classroom instruction in such topics endorsement as a pumpman. Refrigeration System Maintenance and Operations Now an elective, this six-week class blends practical and classroom instruction leading to certification in refrigeration system maintenance and operations. Among the topics covered are theory of mechanical refrigeration, major system com- It' as diesel propulsion plants, steam propulsion plants, engineereing safety, auxiliary boilers and diesels, water systems, electricity generating plants, eiectrical distribution and electrical devices. The 12week course, which meets U.S. Coast Guard requirements for licensing , atso includes American Red Cross-approved classes in first aid and CPR as well as basic and advanced firefighting. Additional Courses-Study Skills Program Proficiency in one's occupation can come not only from courses covering the technical aspects of one's job, but also from advancing one's study skills and knowledge of the language. The Paul Hall Center offers a number of courses to assist Seafarers with basic study skills and basic learning procedures. GED Preparation - This 12-week program will help students prepare for and take the GED exam. Areas of study include math, writing, social studies, science, literature and the arts. Adult Basic Education (ABE) - Basic skills in this eight-week course include indiv idualized instruction to increase vocabulary, reading comprehension, writing ability and math skills. English as a Second Language (ESL) - If English is not a student's primary language, this eight-week course can help him or her master the fundamentals. Several other classes in math (including fractions, decimals, percents, measurements, and an introduction to algebra) as well as a two-week lifeboat course and an On-the-job training in all shipboard departments is an important part of a thorough education at the Lundeberg School, whether it introduction to computers are included in is learning to use a bosun's chair, practicing oil spill containment, preparing a meal or working with hazardous materials on deck. this year's Lundeberg School curriculum. �JANUARY 1996 SEAFARERS LOG 13 All Departments: Upgrading and Specialty Courses All students attending upgrading programs at the Paul Hall Center participate in certain courses as part of their regu larly scheduled program . Sealift operations ·and maintenance, physical fitness, first aid and CPR, industrial relations and firefighting either are required or may be ·taken as elective courses by upgrade rs in all departments. Additionally, completing the Tanker Operation/Safety course gives priority · · ) f · b (WI'th·m eac h Ieve I 0 f sernonty or JO s aboard tank vessels to SIU members, for as long as the course is being offered (see description below). Oil Spill Prevention and Containment This one-week course consists of classroom, laboratory and on-the-job training exercises. Topics of instruction include types of oil and petroleum products and their behavior on water, pollution prevention regulations, spill prevention, and small boat operations. Students also receive instruction in spill containment booms and boom towing configurations and anchoring operations. Also covered are selection of absorbents, suction equipment and skimmers and their proper use. Oil Spill Safety Recertification materials and techniques for using them safely. Upgraders receive 16 hours of classroom training and eight hours of practical training. Upon successful completion of the course, students receive a U.S. Coast Guard-recognized certificate of graduation from the Lundeberg School. Advanced Firefighting --------------After receiving a refresher in basic firefighting to start the two-week course, students learn how to blueprint a vessel and organize emergency squads for firefighting. The class covers how to give concise orders using the different types of communications with crewmembers and land-based fire units. Students also study how to inspect and service various shipboard fire extinguishing equipment before going through shipboard simulations and actual firefighting drills. lndusb'ial Relations While attending upgrading courses at the Lundeberg School, all SIU members attend industrial relations courses for one week. Seafarers learn about the maritime industry and the role of U.S. shipping in the economy and in times of crisis. Also, participants review the role of the SIU within the industry and the rights of Seafarers as outlined by the SIU constitution. Students gain an understanding of the various laws and legislative programs which promote a U.S.-flag merchant marine . . Courses also are conducted to provide Seafarers with full information on the many benefit plans available to qualifying members through the union's collective bargaining agreements. Available for personnel who have completed 40- or 24-hour hazardous materials (hazmat) courses and who must be annually recertified, this one-day class includes a regulatory overview of Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) requirements, as well as reviews of toxology terminology, medical monitoring instruments and techniques, site-control and emergency preparedness, proper use of respiratory protection and monitoring equipment and General Physical Fitness new technology. First Aid and CPR Students in this two-hour class learn the principles and techniques of safety and basic first aid, as well as cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) according to the accepted standards of the American Red Cross. After successful completion of each phase of this course, students are awarded a certificate from the American Red Cross. The U.S. Coast Guard places certain physical requirements on all mariners. To ensure the U.S.-flag fleet physically fit crewmembers, the SIU encourages Seafarers to exercise properly. At the Paul Hall Center, workout programs are individually designed to meet the needs of the student. Students may participate in free weight, Nautilus or Universal weight training, which can be used to gain, lose or maintain body weight. Aerobic and swimming programs also are available. Basic Firefighting Tanker Operation/Safety Most courses combine hands-on training with classroom instruction-including everything from computer training to study skills to planning menus. valuable for all personnel sailing aboard tankers. Steward department personnel will attend the first two weeks of the course; deck and engine personnel will complete all four weeks. The class blends hands-on training with classroom instruction. Topics include tanker construction and safety, the chemical and physical properties of petroleum products, flammability characteristics, toxicity/asphyxiation characteristics and health hazards associated with exposure to petroleum products, how to correctly monitor tanks for oxygen deficiency and take other meter readings with atmospheric monitoring equipment, creating sitespecif ic shipboard safety plans and reviewing final rules on benzene products. Students also will learn troubleshooting and basic maintenance of monitoring gear, extensive confined-space safety training and rescue operations, fit-tests using respirators and other breathing apparatuses and emergency equipment, an introduction to fire chemistry and other aspects offirefighting (including fire hazard awareness and identification), fire prevention via vapor control and ignition source control, fire extin- guishing equipment, firefighting techniques and fire/emergency duties. Other areas of study include different types of oils, medical surveillance, vessel oil pollution prevention, national pollution contingency plans, water pollution, removal of oil and other hazardous substances, rules for protecting the marine environment, and more. Tankennan Recertification This two-week course is geared toward the individual who holds a tankerman endorsement issued before March 31, 1996, and who wants to continue to serve as a tankerman until the first renewal of his or her Merchant Mariner's Document that occurs after March 31, 1997. Tankennan-PIC (Barge) - Original Students in this course will learn the specific requirements for obtaining an original endorsement as a tankerman-PIC (Barge). Included in the curriculum are transferring bulk liquid cargo, tank barge firefighting and handling of dangerous liquid or liquefied gas. Inland Courses Radar Observernnland The basic firefighting course provides students with general knowledge of the This four-week course is open to all This one-week radar observer class chemistry of fire, firefighting equipment and ratings and departments and is particularly leads to a radar observer endorsement that i1 " is good on vessels of any tonnage. Approved by the U.S. Coast Guard, the course features hands-on training and classroom work, including radar theory, observation, operation and use, interpretation and plotting, advanced radar plotting, collision avoidance and navigational exercises. Students operate modern audio-visual and radar simulation gear, as well as the full shiphandling simulator, as they practice controlling and maneuvering a vessel, plotting courses and safely guiding a ship without jeopardizing the safety of other vessels. Also included ·are practical exercises and lectures covering inland, waterway and river navigation and piloting. Engineroom Familiarization Designed for prospective tugboat engineers, this two-week class provides instruction in the following areas: engineroom safety, engineering plant nomenclature, piping system hardware, a functional description of main propulsion and auxiliary machinery and associated piping systems, plant operations and watchkeeping, and safe handling of fuels and oil spill prevention. Engineroom Operations & Maintenance Engineroom Troubleshooting & casualty Control This two-week course is an advanced skills program designed to upgrade the skills of the chief engineer for handling emergencies and non-routine operating conditions. ODE/Limited License Preparation The two-week curriculum preparing students to take the exam for Designated Duty Engineer consists of both classroom instruction and practical training in all aspects of the duties of the tugboat engineer. System and component theory, operating procedures, maintenance and repair techniques and troubleshooting are emphasized. Main propulsion plant instruction includes diesel engine theory and construction, watch operations and engine maintenance, engine governing and automation, fuel injection, starting and reversing, intake and exhaust, lubrication and cooling systems, as well as reduction gears, clutching, shafting and propellers. Auxiliary equipment instruction includes piping systems, pumps and compressors, heat exchangers, hydraulics and pneumatics, steering systems, deck machinery, boilers, refrigeration and air conditioning equipment, evaporators, basic electricity, generators and motors, switchboards, batteries and electrical maintenance. This course is designed for inland personnel with intermediate skills to prepare assistant engineers for all phases of engineroom operations and routine maintenance. Additionally, the two-week Additional instruction is offered in all Safety at sea is of prime concern to all Seafarers. To help students attain this goal, the curriculum prepares students to assume aspects of engineering safety. Lundeberg School offers such courses as lifeboat operation, firefighting and oil spill safety. the duties of the chief engineer. �14 SEAFARERS LOG JANUARY 1996 LUNDEBERG SCHOOL 1996 UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE he following is the course schedule for the entire new year-January through December 1996 of the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship, located at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, in Piney Point, Md. The course schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the industry or the national interest. Seafarers should continue to consult each monthly edition of the Seafarers LOG for the most up-to-date course schedule. For additional information, contact the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD. 20674-0075; telephone (301) 994-0010. Additionally, once an upgrader takes a class or classes at the Lundeberg School, he or she will not be permitted to take additional upgrading classes before showing proof of at least 90 days' seatime since completing the previous course(s). Please note that students should check in the Friday be/ore their course's start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. T Engine Department Courses Start Date Date of Completion QMED - Any Rating January 15 June 17 April 5 September6 Diesel Engine Technology March 18 August 12 April 26 September 20 Fireman/Watertender & Oiler April 29 October 14 Hydraulics Course Safety Specialty Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Advanced Firefighting February 12 April 29 September 30 February23 MaylO October 11 Tanker Operation/Safety January 8 February S March4 April 1 April 29 May27 June24 July 22 August 19 September 16 October 14 Novemberll February 2 March 1 March29 April26 May24 June21 July 19 August 16 September 13 October 11 Novembers December6 Tankerman Recertification August 19 September 16 October 14 November 11 August30 September 27 October2S November 22 Tankerman-PIC (Barge)- Original to be annoucned Inland Courses Course Start Date June28 December 13 Radar Observer/Inland (see radar courses listed under deck department) Novemberll November29 Engineroom Familiarization January 8 January 19 Basic Electronics April 22 May17 February S February 16 Marine Electrical Maintenance I March 18 July 15 April 26 August23 Engineroom Operations & Maintenance March4 March 15 Marine Electrical Maintenance II August26 October4 Engineroom Troubleshooting & Casualty Control Marine Electronics Tech I June3 July 12 DDE/Limited License Prep. April 22 May31 Marine Electronics Tech II July 15 August23 Power Plant Maintenance February S May20 September9 November4 March 15 June28 October 18 December13 Pumproom Maintenance April 1 August 19 April 12 August30 Refrigeration Systems & Maintenance April 29 June7 Refrigerated Containers June 10 Julys Welding January 29 July 15 February23 August9 Third Assistant Engineer September 23 December 13 Date of Completion Recertification Programs Course Start Date Date of Completion Bosun Recertification March4 Augusts April 5 September6 Steward Recertification January 29 July 1 March 1 August2 Steward Department Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Assistant Cook/ Cook and Baker, Chief Cook, Chief Steward January lS March25 June3 August12 April 5 June 14 August23 November 1 Deck Department Courses Start Date Date of Completion April 29 October 14 June28 December13 Bridge Management (Shiphandling) February 26 May6 August 19 March8 May17 August30 Lifeboatman March25 September9 April S September 20 Limited License/License Prep. July 1 August9 Radar Observer/Unlimited February 19 March 18 April 29 June24 August 12 September 16 Novemberll February 23 March22 May3 June28 August 16 September 20 NovemberlS Third Mate January 29 August26 May17 December 13 Celestial Navigation September 30 Novembers Course Able Seaman Additional Courses Stud.I Skills Course Start Date Date of Completion GED Preparation January22 April 22 July 22 April 13 July 13 October 12 Adult Basic Education (ABE) January lS Augusts October 14 February 23 September 13 November22 English as a Second Language (ESL) February S April 1 September2 March 15 MaylO October 11 Lifeboat Preparation March 11 August26 March22 September6 Introduction to Computers to be announced Developmental Math - 098 (fractions, decimals, percents, measurements) June3 July 1 July 26 August3 Developmental Math - 099 (introduction to algebra) July 1 August3 �SEAFARERS LOG JANUARY 1996 Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea NOVEMBER 16 - DECEMBER 15, 1995 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Cl1m C Port 34 New York 1 Philadelphia 8 Baltimore 16 Norfolk 11 Mobile New Orleans 20 Jacksonville 39 San Francisco 21 Wilmington 27 Seattle 23 Puerto Rico 10 Honolulu 3 21 Houston St. Louis 3 1 Piney Point Algonac 0 Totals 238 Port 13 New York 2 Philadelphia 2 Baltimore Norfolk 3 Mobile 6 New Orleans 11 Jacksonville 14 San Francisco 8 Wilmington 8 Seattle 17 Puerto Rico 9 Honolulu 6 14 Houston St Louis 0 Piney Point 1 Algonac 0 114 Totals Port 15 New York Philadelphia 1 4 Baltimore Norfolk 5 Mobile 9 New Orleans 3 Jacksonville 12 San Francisco 24 Wilmington 17 18 Seattle 2 Puerto Rico 17 Honolulu Houston 9 St. Louis 0 3 Piney Point Algonac 0 Totals 139 Port New York 10 1 Philadelphia 0 Baltimore Norfolk 3 0 Mobile New Orleans 9 2 Jacksonville San Francisco 7 Wilmington 9 Seattle 5 Puerto Rico 5 Honolulu 7 1 Houston 0 St. Louis Piney Point 0 Algonac 0 Totals 59 Totals All De2artments 550 16 5 5 14 16 24 19 15 8 14 4 10 22 0 2 1 3 3 0 8 0 4 5 1 1 0 0 7 7 1 0 1 175 41 15 8 5 14 8 15 16 9 2 0 0 4 0 9 7 4 13 12 1 1 0 1 0 0 TOTAL SIDPPED AU Groups Class A Class B Class C DECK DEPARTMENT 3 26 15 l 1 5 4 14 23 8 15 17 7 6 16 3 0 0 146 5 1 18 8 23 10 16 14 13 0 7 16 2 1 2 151 12 8 63 1 7 0 3 0 2 2 9 3 18 8 8 8 4 10 26 19 41 54 41 36 40 0 0 0 0 1 5 1 0 0 26 5 3 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 142 15 78 85 13 2 0 0 **REGISTERED ON BEACH AU Groups Class A Chm B Class C 2 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 1 13 3 1 0 4 2 0 2 2 12 5 0 1 5 0 7 7 2 7 10 8 0 9 4 0 11 0 6 5 2 0 5 11 6 2 12 2 9 0 0 Trip Reliefs 0 2 12 0 1 0 94 4 Philadelphia Wednesday: February 7, March 6 21 29 8 Baltimore Thursday: February 8, March 7 0 2 5 Norfolk Thursday: February 8, March 7 5 5 Jacksonville Thursday: February 8, March 7 Algonac Friday: February 9, March 8 3 2 3 10 9 0 0 1 359 59 33 29 36 8 19 42 404 New York Tuesday: February 6, March 5 1 0 8 1 3 1 Piney Point Monday: February 5, March 4 8 13 44 February &March 1996 Membership Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, Inland Waters 45 4 8 33 38 0 11 15 Houston Monday: February 12, March 11 New Orleans Tuesday: February 13, March 12 Mobile Wednesday: February 14, March 13 San Francisco Thursday: February 15, March 14 5 0 2 0 0 1 7 4 2 6 1 4 9 29 10 5 2 0 0 6 18 3 13 0 San Juan 27 26 14 12 17 3 Thursday: February 8, March 7 0 2 6 0 4 St. Louis Friday: February 16, March 15 13 17 28 21 10 31 11 7 26 6 ;o 16 18 4 *change created by Presidents' Day holiday Seattle Friday: February 23, March 22 Honolulu Friday: February 16, March 15 Duluth 7 Wednesday: February 14, March 13 5 Jersey City Wednesday: February 21, March 20 2 8 1 0 0 0 0 0 41 205 223 33 7 2 30 0 14 0 0 1 7 5 9 16 2 14 5 8 9 15 0 0 0 0 0 Wilmington Tuesday, February 20*; Monday: March 18 26 2 5 New Bedford Tuesday: February 20, March 19 Each port's meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. STEWARD DEPARTMENT 5 2 1 9 5 6 5 0 0 0 4 1 3 7 1 5 2 1 3 4 2 0 3 2 7 14 8 4 2 1 9 2 0 1 1 0 2 0 0 11 0 0 61 23 0 0 28 5 1 0 2 20 1 1 12 11 18 18 17 14 5 4 47 15 1 14 7 6 6 1 2 2 82 4 1 0 1 0 206 140 584 219 10 9 1 2 5 3 7 6 5 2 3 1 7 1 0 1 0 3 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 9 0 258 119 40 0 0 0 17 62 1 1 1 4 0 0 0 2 2 14 4 19 24 33 33 35 32 22 11 19 2 5 25 2 17 15 12 15 6 9 104 10 1 1 0 73 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 1 6 16 0 1 0 1 0 0 13 2 10 2 0 1 1 5 1 3 9 2 0 10 3 0 4 6 0 4 9 4 0 2 50 2 27 1 0 10 0 0 1 0 12 0 0 0 0 404 3 69 123 I 4 1 5 1 27 0 45 318 6 4 1 5 4 5 1 0 17 2 0 0 0 15 0 67 123 9 0 0 0 0 0 27 54 24 34 22 20 1 6 0 0 0 0 1 0 2 12 6 10 21 3 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 20 14 13 6 7 2 0 4 15 13 0 68 25 0 0 0 3 21 2 0 103 395 243 12096 375 208 970 * "Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. ** "Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. Personals JOHN GOUGIDRNI BALLENTINI JR. Anyone knowing the whereabouts of John Loughirni Ballentini Jr., please contact Genevieve Ann Garcia, c/o Nice As New Shop, 5800 Zuni South East, Albuquerque, NM 87108; or telephone (505) 268-5666. LESLIE COVERT Your niece, Donna Rogers, is trying to locate you. Please write her at 11612 llthPlace West, Everett, WA 98204; or telephone (206) 347-8650. NA THAN WILLIS A former shipmate is trying to make contact. Please get in touch with Murphy P. Laurent at 256 E. 68th Way, Long Beach, CA 90805; or telephone (310) 632-4876 TIMOTHY ROBERSON, JOSEPH M. MAHER, DIONM.PAPAS and STAN GARNET Please contact Robert E. Poore at 125 Maplewood Drive, Hanover, MA 02339; or telephone (617) 8263692. REMEMBER SPAD NEED>1oa (arr/ you needSfAr>) �JANUARY 1996 16 SEAFARERS LOG Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes Seafarers international Union Directory NOVEMBER 16 - DECEMBER 15, 1995 CL-Company/Lakes L-Lakes NP-Non Priority Michael Sacco President John Fay Secretary-Treasurer Joseph Sacco Executive Vice President Augustin Tellez Vice President Contracts George McCartney Vice President West Coast Roy A. ''Buck" Mercer Vice President Government Services Jack Caffey Vice President Atlantic Coast Byron Kelley Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters DeanCorgey Vice President Gulf Coast HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-067 5 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr. Algonac, NII 48001 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP Port 0 16 0 9 0 2 0 Algonac 0 5 11 Totals All Departments 0 32 18 Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac Port (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St. Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JERSEY CITY 99 Montgomery St. Jersey City, NJ 07302 (201)435-.9424 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy. Mobile, AL 36605 (334)478-0916 NEW BEDFORD 48 Union St. New Bedford, MA 02740 (508) 997-5404 NEW ORLEANS 630Jackson Ave. New Orleans, LA 70130 (504) 529-7546 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St Norfolk, VA 23510 (804) 622-1892 PHILADELPHIA 2604S. 4St. Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75 Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave. FL Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St. San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Government Services Division (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 161h Santurce, PR 00907 (809) 721-4033 SEATTLE 2505 First Ave. Seattle, WA 98121 (206) 441-1960 ST.LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave. St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave. Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP DECK DEPARTMENT 0 44 21 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 21 7 0 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 7 5 0 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 0 72 33 0 33 13 0 16 3 0 5 3 0 25 37 0 79 56 *''Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers wh? actually registered for shipping at the port. **"Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters NOVEMBER 16 - DECEMBER 15, 1995 (810) 794-4988 BALTIMORE 1216 E. Baltimore St. Baltimore, MD 21202 (410) 327-4900 DULUTH 705 Medical Arts Building Duluth, MN 55802 (218) 722-4110 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St. Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St. Houston, TX 77002 6 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast 4 5 51 4 Totals Region 64 Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast 3 1 16 0 20 1 0 9 0 10 0 3 8 1 12 0 5 0 7 12 0 0 1 0 1 0 2 0 0 2 0 1 0 3 0 1 4 2 0 3 16 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A ClassB Class C DECK DEPARTMENT 5 0 0 2 1 1 14 2 0 2 38 0 1 58 6 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 1 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 4 0 0 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 0 0 2 0 0 1 1 3 63 7 4 0 13 4 41 11 69 2 1 14 4 21 7 0 30 37 2 1 13 0 16 1 0 7 0 1 3 0 1 8 5 2 0 11 0 13 0 0 4 0 4 33 0 3 0 14 17 59 Totals 98 94 18 Totals All Departments * ''Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. ** "Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. SIU Scholarship Applications Due on April 15 All Seafarers and their spouses and children who plan to attend college next fall are encouraged to apply for one of seven scholarships being awarded in 1996 by the Seafarers Welfare Plan. Three of the grants will go to SIU members; the other four will be given to the spouses or dependent children of eligible Seafarers or SIU pensioners. The scholarships may be used by the recipients for studies at both two- and four-year institutions of higher learning. Eligiblity Requirements Eligibility requirements for Seafarers and their spouses and unmarried dependent children are spelled out in a booklet which contains an application form. The booklet is available by filling out and returning the coupon (below right) to the Seafarers Welfare Plan. It also is available at all SIU halls. Amount of Awards One of the scholarships reserved for SIU members is a $15,000 four-year college stipend; the other two are $6,000 twoyear awards to study at a vocational school or community college. Four scholarships in the amount of $15,000 each will be awarded to the spouses and dependent children of Seafarers and SIU pensioners. Candidates should indicate on the application form whether they are planning to attend a two-year or a four-year program. The $15,000 college scholarships will be paid at the rate of $3,750 per year over a four-year period. The $6,000 awards will be paid at the rate of $3,000 per year. fill out. What may take some time, however, is the collection of other paperwork which must be submitted along with the form. This includes: o Autobiographical Statement. Space ~ · ded th b k f h or this is provi on e ac o eac application form. 0 Photograph of Applicant. This should be a black/white or color passporttype picture. 0 Certified Copy of Birth Certificate if it is not already on file with the Seafarers Welfare Plan. (Only applicants for a dependent' s scholarship are required to furnish this item.) 0 High School Transcript and Cerlift.cation of Graduation. Request both of these items from your high school and ask that they be sent directly to the Scholarship Com- mittee. school diploma by taking the General Education Development (GED) test, have the Department of Education in the state where you took the exam or, if you were in the military' the appropriate military agency send an official copy of your scores directly to the Scholarship Committee. 0 Letters of Reference. At least three letters are required for all applications. D SATorACTResults. TheACTorSAT test must be taken no later than February 1996. Deadline April 15, 1996 is the last day in which applications are being accepted for this year's scholarship program. This is a great financial opportunity for all SIU members and their families who are thinking about college. Apply now! r---------------------------, 1996 lease send me the SIU Scholarship Program booklet which contains Peligibility information, procedures for applying and the application form. City, State, Zip Code - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Telephone Number_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ This application is for: Application Checklist The scholarship application form must be completed by all applicants. It is easy to 0 Official Copy of High School Equivalency Scores. If you earned a high L __ D Self D Dependent Mail this completed form to Scholarship Program, Seafarers Welfare Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. - 1~ �JANUARY1996 SEAFARERS LOG 17 Welcome Ashore! Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. Listed below are brief biographical sketches of those members who recently retired from the union. The brothers and sisters of the SIU thank those members for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. A s a new year begins, the Seafarers Welfare Plan announces the retirements of 21 SIU members. Sixteen of the new pensioners sailed in the deep sea division, one navigated the inland waterways, three shipped on the Great Lakes and one worked in the Railroad Marine division. Among those joining the ranks of SIU pensioners are James H. Chaney and Bobby E. Fletcher, both of whom completed the steward recertification course at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. This course is the highest level of training available for steward department members at the Lundeberg School. Thirteen of the retiring Seafarers served in the U.S. military-six in the Navy, four in the Army, two in the Marine Corps and one in the Air Force. On this page, the Seafarers LOG presents brief biographical accounts of this months' s pensioners. DEEP SEA JAMESH. CHANEY, 61,attended the Marine Cooks&. Stewards Training School ~~---~ (MC&S) in Santa Rosa, Calif. in 1966 and joined MC&S in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU' s Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District (AGLIWD). Brother Chaney upgraded at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md., and graduated from the steward recertification program there in 1991. From 1954 to 1957, he served in the U.S. Army. Born in Texas, Brother Chaney now makes his home in California. BENJAMIN CORPUS, 67,began his career with the Seafarers in 1969 in the port of Norfolk, Va. following 23 years of service in the U.S. Navy. Brother Corpus sailed as a member of the steward department. Born in the Philippines, Brother Corpus presently Jives in Virginia. -., WILLIAM R.DAVIS, 65, started sailing with the SIU in 1969 from the port of New York. .____ _ _ ___, The North Carolina native worked in the .------::::---- deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. From 1946 to 1947, he served in the U.S. Army. Brother Davis has retired to his native North Carolina. LEROY EDMONDSON,62, joined the Seafarers in 1 1969 in the port of San Francisco. Brother Edmondson sailed in both the engine and steward departments and upgraded in the engine department at the Lundeberg School. From 1951to1955, he served in the U.S. Navy. Born in Texas, he now resides in California. BOBBYE. FLETCHER, 62,began his career with the SIU in 1964 in the port of Houston. The Alabama native sailed in the steward department, most recently as a chief cook. He upgraded at the Lundeberg School and completed the steward recertification program there in 1985. From 1951 to 1954, he served in the U.S. Navy. Brother Fletcher presently lives in Texas. RAULL. GUERRA SR., 63, started sailing with the Seafarers in 1968 from the port of ~"--"=""" Houston. The Texas native sailed in the engine department. From 1949 to 1951, he served in the U.S. Marine Corps. Brother Guerra has retired to Texas. DAVIDE. HARTMAN, 69,joined the SIU in 1966 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Brother Hartman sailed as a member of the deck department. From 1943 to 1965, he served in the U .S. Navy. Born in New York, Brother Hartman now makes his home in Virginia. THOMAS C. JOHNSON, 61, graduated from the Andrew Furuseth Training School in 1958 and began his career with the SIU in the port of New York. The Virginia native shipped in the engine department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. From 1952 to 1955, he served in the U.S. Marine Corps. Brother Johnson presently resides in North Carolina. GEORGE L.LUGO, 61, started sailing with the SIU in 1960 from the port of Houston. Brother Lugo shipped as a member of the deck department. From 1952 to 1956, he served in the U.S. Navy. Born in Mississippi, Brother Lugo now calls Texas home. PETER LUP,61, graduated from the MC&S Training School in Santa Rosa, Calif. in 1967 and joined that union in the port of Wilmington, Calif., before it merged with the SIU' s AGLIWD. Brother Lup frequently upgraded his culinary skills at the Lundeberg School. The Michigan native served in the U.S. Air Force from 1951 to 1955. Brother Lup presently lives in California. GEORGE ' B.McCURLEY, 66,joined · the Sea, farers in 1953 in the port of New '--"'"---....;.;;....;;_ ____, York. Born in Texas, he sailed in the deck department and upgraded his skills at the Lundeberg School. Brother McCurley retired to his native Texas. HERBERT NIXON, 65, graduated from the Andrew Furuseth Training School in 1959 and started his career with the SIU in the port of Mobile, Ala. The Alabama native sailed as a member of the steward department. From 1951to1953, he served in the U.S. Army. Brother Nixon continues to live in Alabama. ALFREDO PANICO, 65,began his career with the Seafarers in 1965 in the port of Wil.___ _ _~-=--__. mington, Calif. Brother Panico was a member of the steward department and last sailed as a chief cook. Born in Italy, he became a U.S . citizen and presently resides in Florida. JUAN J. PATINO, 65, began sailing with the SIU in 1953 from the port of Lake Charles, La. Brother Patino shipped in the engine department and upgraded frequently at the Lundeberg School. From 1947 to 1951, he served in the U.S. Navy. Born in New York, Brother Patino now makes his home in Washington. KIMS. QUAN,62, joined the MC&S in 1958, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Quan last sailed aboard the Matsonia, operated by Matson Navigation Co. in August 1994. Born in China, he became a U.S. citizen and makes his home in California. GILBERTO RODRIGUEZ,65, began his seafaring career with theMC&S in 1958 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU' s AGLIWD. Brother Rodriguez last shipped in January 1995 aboard the Matsonia. From 1947 to 1957, he served in the U.S. Army. Born in Texas, Brother Rodriguez now lives in California. INLAND , --;:;:=;;:;;;;;;;---,LEONARD C.PAUL, 60,joined the SIU in 1966 in the port of Nor. folk, Va. The North L---'-:..:===~ Carolina native was a member of the engine department, last sailing as a chief engineer. Boatman Paul continues to live in his native state of North Carolina. GREAT LAKES DANIELL. MEYERS, 61,began sailing with the Seafarers in 1966 from the port of Detroit. He shipped as a member of the deck department. Brother Meyers retired to his native state of Wisconsin. MUS LEH MUHSIN, 65,started his career with the SIU in 1968 in the port of Detroit. ,___=-o...;__ ___;._--= Brother Muhsin sailed in all three departments: steward, engine and deck. Born in Arabia, he now makes his home in Michigan. JIMMYN. PITSAS, 62,started his career with the Seafarers in 1967 in the port of Chicago. Brother Pitsas sailed as a member of the deck department. Born in Greece, he became a naturalized U.S. citizen and has retired to Indiana. RAILROAD MARINE FLOYDM. FOSTER, 64,joined the Seafarers in 1960 in the port of Norfolk, Va. =~=======-.;:~ He sailed in the deck department and worked prifnarily for the Pennsylvania Railroad. Brother Foster continues to reside in Virginia. Not Your Ordinary Fire Drill What started out as a regular fire and boat drill aboard the Overseas Vivian on August 31 ended with a surprise retirement party for AB Al Bertrand. Brother Bertrand, who started sailing with the SIU in 1961, says it is now time for the younger generation to take over. His fellow shipmates wish him a healthy and happy well-deserved retirement in his hometown of Pasadena, Texas. �18 JANUARY 1996 SEAFARERS LOG While docking in Guam, OS Richard Russell, AB Jesus Torres and OS Mohammad Atif handle the lines. Seafarers Keep 'Stick-Ship' Sailing the High Seas Cookouts occasionally take place on the beach while the vessel is at anchor in Guam or Diego Garcia. Enjoying one of these meals in Diego Garcia are, from left, OS James Fekaney, AB Carl Townson, OMU Steve Sanchez, Bosun Dave Garoutte and GSU Dustin Wilson. The Cleveland's crew appreciates the weekly barbecues which Steward/Baker Dave Alexander (left), GSU Kim Vaughn (middle) and Chief Cook Carlos Sierra are in the process of preparing. As a reward for hard work, weekly barbecues on deck are becoming a routine part of life aboard the Cleveland. From left are OMU M. Ponatowski, Electrician I. Samra, Radio Officer Mike Stone, Chief Cook Carlos Sierra and Steward/Baker Miguel Vinca. Maintaining a 27-year-old breakbulk freighter is no easy task. Just ask Seafarers aboard the Cleveland, a Sealift, Inc. C-5 cargo ship. In a letter to the Seafarers LOG, Bosun David J. Garoutte reported that the crew is constantly hard at work keeping the ship in "immaculate condition." "Realizing there are not many of these "stick ships" left afloat, the Cleveland crew takes great pride in keeping her clean and in good working order," explained Garoutte, who also provided the accompanying photos. Contracted by the Military Sealift Command, the Cleveland is one of only a handful of breakbulk freighters that remain in operation. (The Cleveland and vessels like it are known as stick ships because the cranes and booms built aboard the vessels are designed to load and unload cargo.) Due to the speed that containerships have brought to the process of handling cargo, the use of breakbulk freighters has declined. Now, the only SIU vessels which still have cranes on board capable of self-loading and unloading in port are military contracted ships. While shuttling cargo between ports in Guam, Diego Garcia and Singapore, Garoutte and members of the deck department take special care of the booms to keep them in proper working order. They also perform regular maintenance on the vessel's winches and hatches. "There is much more technical and demanding work that needs to be done on a regular basis aboard the Cleveland than would be necessary aboard any other type of ship," noted Garoutte. "At the beginning of my career at sea, I learned so much on these and similar ships," said the bosun. "Twentythree years later, I'm still learning a thing or two about them! I'm glad I've had the chance these last few years to wqrk on this type of ship, whose technology-but definitely not its usefulness-seems to be becoming a thing of the past," Garoutte concluded. While hard work is a regular part of the daily shipboard routine for Seafarers aboard the Cleveland, barbecues have become a weekly ritual. Garoutte stated that while the work is demanding and the hours long, "the officers and crew look forward to the weekly barbecues on board as well as the occasional cookout on the beach while at anchor in Guam or Diego Garcia. Getting together as friends when the week is through is often our payoff," the bosun wrote. The Cieveland's jumbo boom-capable of lifting 70 tons-unloads a military vehicle in the port of Guam. �SEAFARERS LOG JANUARY 1996 19 Final Departures DEEP SEA SALVATORE AMATO Pensioner Salvatore Amato, 78, passed away October 6. Born in Nebraska, he joined the Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S) in 1960 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU' s Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District (AGLIWD). Brother Amato began receiving his pension in July 1982. CHESTER L. ANDERSON Pensioner Chester L. Anderson, 69, died October 12. He began sailing with the Seafarers in 1955 from the port of New York. Born in Canada, Brother Anderson worked as a member of the deck department. He retired in May 1991. ALEXANDER BENZUK =--=----.., Pensioner Alexander Benzuk, 70, passed away October 19. Born in New Jersey, he joined the SIU in 1944 in the port of Savannah, Ga. Brother Benzuk sailed in the engine department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. He began receiving his pension in June 1987. ANGEL C. BURGOS Pensioner Angel C. Burgos, 99, died October4. A native of Puerto Rico, he began sailing with the Seafarers in __ _ _ ___, 1941 from the port of New York. Brother Burgos sailed as a member of the engine department. During his union career, he participated in various union organizing drives and beefs. Brother Burgos retired in May 1969. CHARLES R. BURNS • Pensioner Charles R. Burns, 67, passed away October 19. Brother Burns started his career with the SIU in 1961 in the port of New Orleans. He shipped in the engine department and upgraded his rating to QMED at the Lundeberg School. Born in Florida, Brother Bums began receiving his pension in February 1992. FRANCISCO CARABBACAN JOHNJAPPER Pensioner Francisco Carabbacan, 93, passed away November 7. He began his career with the SIU in '------=-------' 1947 in the port of New York. Brother Carabbacan sailed as a member of the steward department. Born in the Philippines, Brother Carabbacan lived in California. He retired in February 1969. John Japper, 64, passed away November 5. Anative of New York, he began sailing with the SIU in 1962 from the port of New York. The deck department member upgraded frequently at the Lundeberg School and graduated from Lhe training facility's bosun recertification program in 1975. JAMES J. JOHNSON JR. ANTONIO L. DOS SANTOS Pensioner Antonio L. Dos Santos, 82, died October 16. Born in Brazil, he joined the Seafarers in 1951 in the ~-----'---'---=--' port of Baltimore. Brother Dos Santos sailed as a member of the engine department. He resided in Maryland and began receiving his pension in April 1972. Pensioner James J. Johnson Jr., 76, died October 14. He started his career with • the Seafarers as a charter ==='--'===i member in 1939 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Brother Johnson sailed in the steward department and began receiving his pension in July 1985. VINCENT D. LARIMER Vincent D. Larimer, 29, passed away October 6. ,..._ He graduated ~ . from the Lundeberg School program for entry level seamen in 1988 and joined the SIU in the port of Piney Point, Md. The Alabama native sailed in the engine department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. Brother Larimer was a resident of Alabama. / Pensioner Gerald L. Garrity, 90, passed away October 10. The Louisiana native began sailing with the SIU in 1951 from the port of New Orleans. Brother Garrity shipped as a member of the engine department and began receiving his pension in September 1974. I~ ....... ...i\ .... ' ALAN F. LAUTERMILCH EMIL A. GOMEZ Pensioner Emil A. Gomez, 70, died October 15. A native of New York, he started his career with the Seafarers in 1944 in the port of New York. Brother Gomez sailed in the steward department. He retired in August 1995. Alan F. Lautermilch, 46, died October 3. Born in New Jersey,_ he began sailing with the SIU in 1977 from the port _ __ __ __, of New York. Brother Lautermilch shipped in the deck department. He upgraded at the Lundeberg School and completed the bosun recertification course there in 1989. From 1968 to 1971, he served in the U.S. Army. FRANCIS E. HENSEN Francis E. Hensen, 73, passed away October 18. Born in California, he began sailing with the SIU in 1988 from ==:::......==-=== the port of San Francisco. Brother Hensen shipped as a member of the deck department. DIOSDADO CAMPOS BRUCE R. HUBBARD Diosdado Campos, 51, died August 26. Born in Puerto Rico, he started sailing with the Seafarers in 1979 from the port of New York. Brother Campos shipped in both the engine and deck departments and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. ~-----~ Pensioner Bruce R. Hubbard, 75, died October 8. Brother Hubbard joined the Seafarers in 1953 in the port of Gal' - - - - - - - - - ' veston, Texas. He sailed as a member of the engine department. Born in Washington, he began receiving his pension in September 1985. LUTHER PATE r;:;:;;;;;;;;;;;;;::;;:;:;;;;;;;:::;;;:;;;:;;i Pensioner Luther Pate, 74, passed away October 6. Brother Pate joined the SIU in 1947 in the port of New L - - - - - - - - ' Orleans. The deck department member upgraded at the Lundeberg School. In 1975, Brother Pate graduated from the school's bosun recertification course. From 1942 to 1947, he served in the U.S. Navy. A native of Alabama, he retired in June 1986. ERNEST W. PIERCE ~~~'.'":::==:::::~·~ Pensioner ErnestW. Pierce, 77, died October 23. Born in Massachusetts, he began sailing with the Seafarers in 1959 from the port of New York. Brother Pierce shipped as a member of the deck department and began receiving his pension in April 1985. JOSE H. RODRIGUEZ Jose H. Rodriguez, · 59, passed away October 23. He started his career with the SIU in 1972 in the port of New '-----'---'--'-'--'------'Orleans. Brother Rodriguez shipped in all three departments: engine, deck and steward. He upgraded his engine department ratings at the Lundeberg School. Born in Honduras, he became a U.S. citizen. JOSE A. SILVA Pensioner Jose A . Silva, 90, died October 19. Brother Silva joined the Seafarers in 1946 in the · port of "'='2==-~---"--""" Philadelphia and sailed in the deck department. Born in Peru, he became a U.S. citizen. Brother Silva was a resident of Florida and began receiving his pension in March 197 5. JOSEPH F. SPIRITO Pensioner Joseph F. Spirito,.72, passed away October 8. Born in Pennsylvania, he began sailing with the SIU ~"'-"""'~~"'-=-=in 1957 from the port of New York. Brother Spirito shipped in the steward department, last sailing as a chief cook. From 1943 to 1946, he served in the U.S. Navy. Brother Spirito retired in April 1991. RAYMONDE. WATERFIELD Pensioner RaymondE. Waterfield, 74, died October 16. He started sailing with the Seafarers in 1958 from 1..:...-=-...::=~'---',,__, the port of Norfolk, Va. Brother Waterfield shipped in the engine department and retired in December 1972. f..- WILLIAM H. WEST Pensioner WilliamH. West, 64, passed away October 19. A native of New York, he graduated from the Andrew Furuseth Training School in 1960 and joined the SIU in the port of New York. Brother West sailed in the deck department. He served in the U.S. Army from 1948 to 1952. Brother West began receiving his pension in September 1991. ~-------. CARLOS WILLIAMS Pensioner Carlos Williams, 54, died October 3. Brother Williams I graduated in 1968 from the Marine Cooks & Stewards Training School in Santa Rosa, Calif. and joined the MC&S in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. The Missouri native upgraded at the Lundeberg School. Brother Williams retired in December 1991. JESSIE WINFIELD Pensioner Jessie Winfield, 72, passed away October 11. He started his career with the Seafarers in 1944 in the L-----=-=~-'--_J port of Baltimore. Sailing in the steward department, Brother Winfield advanced through the ranks of the galley crew. He accomplished this by upgrading at the Lundeberg School. Born in Virginia, he retired in April 1985. VINCENT YOUNG Pensioner Vincent Young, 80, died October 7. He began sailing with the SIU in 1963 from the port of New York. The steward department member shipped in both the inland and deep sea divisions. He upgraded at the Lundeberg School, last sailing as a chief cook. Born in Japan, Brother Young began receiving his pension in February 1983. INLAND LESLIE F. HAYNIE Pensioner Leslie F. Haynie, 78, passed away October 26. Boatman Haynie started his career with the SIU in 1961 in the port of Norfolk, Va. The Virginia native most recently sailed in the deck department as a tugboat captain. Boatman Haynie was a resident of Virginia and retired in August 1986. CHARLESB.RAYBURN Pensioner Charles B. Rayburn, 90, died September 20. He joined the Seafarers in 1961 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Sailing in the deck department as a mate, the North Carolina native worked primarily on vessels operated by Curtis Bay Towing. Boatman Rayburn began receiving his pension in June 1971. ADOLF W. THORING Pensioner AdolfW. Thoring, 87, passed away September 16. Boatman Thoring began sailing with the SIU Continued on page 20 �20 SEAFARERS LOG SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR SEAFARERS WELFARE FUND JANUARY 1996 Know Your Rights This is a summary of the annual report of the Seafarers Welfare Fund, EIN 13-5557534, Plan No. 501, for the period January 1, 1994 through December 31, 1994. The annual report has been filed with the Internal Revenue Service, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). The trust has committed itself to pay claims incurred under the terms of the Plan. FINANCIAL REPORTS. The constitution of paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters unless an official union receipt is given for same. District makes specific provision for safeguarding Under no circumstances should any member pay the membership's money and union finances. The any money for any reason unless he is given such constitution requires a detailed audit by certified receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any public accountants every year, which is to be sub- such payment be made without supplying a receipt, mitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A or if a member is required to make a payment and Basic Financial Statement yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was elected by the membership, each year examines the should not have been required to make such pay$(32,317,520) as of December 31, 1994, compared to $(33,736,389) as finances of the union and reports fully their findings ment, this should immediately be reported to union of January 1, 1994. During the plan year, the plan experienced an increase and recommendations. Members of this committee headquarters. in its net assets of $1,418,869. This increase includes unrealized appreciaCONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND tion and depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU constitution between the value of the plan's assets at the end of the year and the value TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU are available in all union halls. All members should of the assets at the beginning of the year or the cost of assets acquired during the year. During the plan year, the plan had a total income of Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District are obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize $41,27 5,841, including employer contributions of $40,792,399 and earn- administered in accordance with the provisions of themselves with its contents. Any time a member various trust fund agreements. All these agreements feels any other member or officer is attempting to ings from investments of $238,243. Plan expenses were $39,856,972. These expenses included specify that the trustees in charge of these funds deprive him or her of any constitutional right or $4,199,572 in administrative expenses and $35,657,400 in benefits paid shall equally consist of union and management obligation by any methods, such as dealing with to participants and beneficiaries. representatives and their alternates. All expendi- charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the tures and disbursements of trust funds are made member so affected should immediately notify headYour Rights To Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. quarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. 1. an accountant's report; SlllPPING RIGHTS. A member's shipping These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU constitution 2. assets held for investment; rights and seniority are protected exclusively by and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with 3. loans or other obligations in default; contracts between the union and the employers. the employers. Consequently, no member may be dis4. transactions in excess of 5% of plan assets; and 5. service provider and trustee infonnation. Members should get to know their shipping rights. criminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or Copies of these contracts are posted and available national or geographic origin. If any member feels that call the office of Mr. Lou Delma, who is plan administrator, at 5201 Auth in all union halls. If members believe there have been he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746-4211; telephone (301) 899-0675. The violations of their shipping or seniority rights as con- she is entitled, the member should notify union charge to cover copying costs will be $1.50 for the full annual report or tained in the contracts between the union and the headquarters. 10 cents per page for any part thereof. employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on Board by certified m~l: return receipt requested. The DONATION - SPAD. SPAD is a separate request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the . segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of proper address for ~s is: Augustm Tellez, Chamnan objects and purposes including, but not limited to, the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the Seafarers Appeals Board furthering the political, social and economic interests full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and 5201. Au th Way of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to . Camp Spnngs, MD 207 46 . of the American merchant marine with improved cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying Full copies of.contra~ts as refe~ to~ available to employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without m~mbers at all tnnes, either by wnting directly to the and the advancement of trade union concepts. In charge. connection with such objects, SPAD supports and You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report umon or to the Seafarers Appeals Board CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are contributes to political candidates for elective office. at the main office of the plan at 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746-4211 and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, D.C., available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) upon wages and conditions under which an SIU member be solicited or received because of force, job dispayment of copying costs. Requests to the DOL should be addressed to: works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members crimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conPublic Disclosure Room - N-5638, Pension and Welfare Benefits Ad- should know their contract rights, as well as their duct, or as a condition of membership in the union or ministration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue NW, obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the of employment If a contribution is made by reason of Washington, DC 20210. proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any the above improper conduct, the member should time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by other union official fails to protect their contractual certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest investigation and appropriate action and refund, if inFinal Departures SIU port agent. voluntary. A member should support SPAD to protect EDITORIAL POLICY THE and finther his or her economic, political and social Continued from page 19 SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG tradition- interests, and American trade union concepts. in 1957 from the port of Philadelof World War II, he served in ally h~ .refrained from publis~~ ~y ~cle sen:ing NOTIFYING TIIE UNION-If at any time a phia. He shipped in the deck depart- the U.S. Army from 1942 to the political purposes of any m~VIdual m the ~ru?n, member feels that any of the above rights have been ment and advanced from mate to 1945. officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing violated or that he or she has been denied the captain. Born in Norway, he bearticles ~med ~ ~o the ~on or its collective constitutlonal right of access to union records or came a naturalized U.S. citizen and membership. This ~tablis~ed policy has been reaf- information, the member should immediately FRANCIS M. MADIGAN retired in January 1973. by. members~p ~tion at the September. l??O notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headPensioner meetmgs mall const:J.~n~nal ports: The r~~ns1b1lity quarters by certified mail, return receipt reFrancis M. WILLIAM R. WALLEN for ~eafarer:s WG policy IS ~ested man editon~ board quested. The address is: Madigan, 76, Michael Sacco President which consISts of the executive board of the uruon. The .--------__,Pensioner died July 5. executive boan:l may delegate, from among its ranks, Seafarers Intematlonal Union WilliamR. A native of 5201 Auth Way Wallen, 77, New Yorlc, he one individual to cariy out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be Camp Springs, MD _207 46. died Septemjoined the ber 21. Born Seafarers in in New Jer1961 in the sey, he started ~------' port of BufVA Merchant Marine Vets Map Out the New Year his career falo, N.Y. Brother Madigan sailed with the in the deck department. From 1944 to 1946, he served in the U.S. i...:.._'-=====::..J Seafarers in 1966 in the port of Philadelphia. Navy. Brother Madigan was a resiBoatman Wallen sailed in the endent of New York and retired in gine department and upgraded at September 1982. the Lundeberg School. He began receiving his pension in January ARTHUR MARTIN 1984. Arthur Martin, 76, passed away February 11. Brother Martin GREAT LAKES started sailing with the SIU in 1962 in the port of Chicago. The Illinois JOSEPH M. LAFRENIERE native sailed in the deck department. Brother Martin was a resiPensioner dent of Indiana. Joseph M. Lafreniere, 77, passed NORBERT S. WERDA , away Novem- Pensioner Norbert S. Werda, 67, ber 3. The died July 5. He joined the Michigan naSeafarers in 1950 in the port of Altive began pena, Mich. Brother Werda sailing with shipped in the engine department, Members of the Hampton Roads (Va.) chapter of the American Merchant Marine Veterans are busy the SIU in last sailing as a conveyorman. planning this year's schedule of events-including the election of officers. Pictured above at a recent 1962 from the port of Chicago. From 1946 to 1947 he served in meeting are (seated, left to right) retired MFOW member John K. Dover; retired Seafarer Max Simerly, Brother Lafreniere sailed as a mem- the U.S. Army. Born in Michigan, clerk-recruiter of the chapter; Bobby Kennedy, Williamsburg, Va. representative; W.8. Huffer, ber of the deck department and Brother Werda retired in March Richamond, Va.-area recruiter; (standing, from left) Billie Leggett. vice president; and Captain James retired in August 1980. A veteran 1993. H. Price, executive officer. For more information on the chapter, please call (804) 247-1656. furne:<l �SEAFARERS LOG JANUARY 1996 OVERSEAS JUNEAU Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships 17!lnutes first are reviewed by the union's contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. SEA-LAND EXPLORER (SeaLand Service), October 15-Chairman Jack Kingsley, Secretary Eva Myers, Educational Director G. Pollard-Lowsley, Deck Delegate J. Henry. Chainnan reminded crew to separate plastics from regular garbage. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew extended special vote of thanks to AB Henry for going ashore to purchase new movies for crew lounge. Chainnan thanked crew for keeping noise down in hallways at night. Next port: Oakland, Calif. reported upcoming payoff and advised crewmembers to donate to SPAD and upgrade at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked galley gang for job well done. /TB JACKSONVILLE (Sheridan Transportation), November 26Chainnan George Diefenbach, Secretary R.E. Crawford, Educational Director S. Penn, Steward Delegate Louis Escobar. Chairman announced payoff in Jacksonville upon arrival in port and urged members to upgrade at Lundeberg School. No beefs or disputed OT noted. All three delegates reported smooth sailing. Crew extended special vote of thanks for job well done. SEA-LAND HA WAI/ (Sea-Land Service), October 29-Chainnan J.L. Carter, Secretary Brenda Kamiya, Engine Delegate A. Yahmed, Steward Delegate John Padilla. Chainnan thanked entire crew for job well done preparing ship for annual Coast Guard inspection. Educational director urged crew to continue upgrading at Lundeberg School. Treasurer reported $165 in crew movie fund. Deck delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegates. Crew requested new dryer. Galley gang thanked for job well done. CHARLESTON (Apex Marine), November 26-Chairman Mark Holman, Educational Director Clarence Langford, Engine Delegate Christopher Clements. Chainnan advised crew of payoff in port of Charleston, S.C. Educational director urged members to attend upgrading courses at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked for new speakers and radio for lounge and, if possible, new movies every 30 days. GALVESTON BAY (Sea-Land Service), November 27--Chairman James Davis, Secretary Janet Price, Educational Director Robert Whitaker, Deck Delegate Doug Jones. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked steward department for fine Thanksgiving Day feast. GUAYAMA (NPR, Inc.), November 20-Chainnan Gerald Kidd, Secretary J.P. Speller, Deck Delegate Mott Arnold, Engine Delegate Gary Doyen, Steward Delegate A.H.Azez. Chainnan LEADER (Kirby Tankships), November 26-Chainnan Patrick Rankin, Secretary Norman Duhe, Educational Director R. Gracey, Deck Delegate Carson Jordan, Engine Delegate Patrick Carroll. Educational director advised crewmembers of the importance of attending tanker operation/safety course at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. NUEVO SAN JUAN (NPR, Inc.), November 25-Chainnan Ronald Dailey, Secretary K.L. Marchand, Educational Director James Williams, Steward Delegate Joseph Brooks. Chairman announced payoff in port of San Juan, P.R. and advised crewmembers on importance of attending tanker operation/safety course at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Cre~ requested increased dental coverage be included in next contract. Crew extended thanks to steward department for great food at all times and nice Thanksgiving Day dinner. OM/ STAR (OMI), November 9Secretary Leonard Murray. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed importance of getting enough rest prior to watch standing. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang members L. Murray and Al Bartly for jobs well done. Crew addressed issue of writing members of Congress to encourage them to keep the Jones Act Next port: Savannah, Ga. Guess What's for Dinner ... '-. f ~ QMED Sam Addo (left) and AB Julius Udan help pull in a 100-pound tuna, caught off the coast of Guam from aboard the Sea-Land Pacific. The photo was taken by AB Tillman Churchman. (Maritime Overseas), November 14-ChainnanJohn T. Baker, Secretary Michael Meany, Educational Director Coy Herrington, Deck Delegate Sean O'Doherty, Engine Delegate Robert Dehlbom, Steward Delegate Saleh Kassem. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested new furniture in crew lounge. Crew thanked captain and chief engineer for TV, antenna and new washer in crew laundry. SEA-LAND CHALLENGER (Sea-Land Service), November 13-Chainnan J.R. Wilson, Secretary James Harper, Educational Director D.R. Connell, Deck Delegate Mike Ortiz, Engine Delegate Michael Veigel. Secretary noted smooth sailing with everyone doing a fine job in keeping ship in good condition. Educational director reminded crew to donate to SPAD. Treasurer reported $192 in ship's fund. Deck delegate requested movie cabinet to store videotapes. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested company have ship fumigated. Crew thanked galley gang and DEU Ahmed Hassan for jobs well done. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. SEA-LAND EXPLORER (SeaLand Service), November 19Chainnan Jack Kingsley, Secretary Eva Myers, Educational Director G. Pollard-Lowsley, Deck Delegate James Henry. Chairman noted dryer in crew laundry repaired by chief electrician. Educational director reminded crewmembers to enroll in tanker operation/safety course at Lundeberg School before end of 1996. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chainnan discussed pending maritime revitalization legislation and encouraged crew to write members of Congress to urge its passage. Bosun requested crewmembers keep noise down in passageways so others can sleep. SEA-LAND INNOVATOR (SeaLand Service), November 18Chainnan Joe Salcido, Secretary Jose Bayani, Educational Director Cliff McCoy, Deck Delegate Charles Howell, Engine Delegate Lonnie Carter. Chairman reported extra pillows, blankets and mattresses available for crew through steward delegate. Secretary thanked deck and engine departments for jobs well done and extended special thanks to wiper for his hard work. Educational director urged members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. Engine delegate reported beef. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck or steward delegates. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. SEA-LAND NAVIGATOR (SeaLand Service), November 27Chairrnan Oscar Wiley, Educational Director George Cruzen. Chairman discussed importance of attending tanker operation/ safety course at Lundeberg School. He reminded crewmembers to make sure they are registered to vote in the 1996 presidential election. No beefs or disputed OT reported. SEA-LAND PRODUCER (SeaLand Service), November 26Chainnan Jack Edwards, Secretary David Cunningham, Educational Director Jim Smitko, Deck Delegate G.D. Carter, Engine Delegate Ronald Giannnini, Steward Delegate Ernest Polk. Bosun noted arrival and departure times in ports of Long Beach and Oakland, Calif. He also advised crew of Coast Guard inspection and fire drill. Educational director reminded crewmembers of importance of attending tanker operation/safety course at Piney Point. He also advised crew to check renewal dates on z-cards. Treasurer announced $1,850 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked steward department for excellent Thanksgiving dinner, homemade cookies and "makeyour-own-pizza night." Next port: New Orleans. SEA-LAND SPIRIT (Sea-Land Service), November 14-Chairman Howard Gibbs, Secretary Steve Apodaca, Educational Director David Bautista, Deck Delegate Gary Smith, Engine Delegate A. Dambita, Steward Delegate Mario Firme Jr. Chairman announced arrival time in port of Tacoma, Wash. Secretary stressed importance of donating to SPAD. Educational director reminded crewmembers to attend tanker operation/safety course at Lundeberg School. Deck delegate 21 reported. Crew thanked galley gang for serving an interesting and varied menu. USNS POTOMAC (Bay Ship Management), November 26Chairrnan David Zurek, Secretary E. Cordova, Educational Director P. Fergoson, Deck Delegate Wayne Powers, Engine Delegate James McParland, Steward Delegate Matthew Schilling Sr. Chainnan asked crewmembers to attend all union meetings and take tanker operation/safety course offered at Paul Hall Center. Secretary advised crew to consider safety above all else and report any unsafe conditions. Educational director encouraged crewmembers to participate in Piney Point upgrading programs. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed beginning ship's fund. Crew com- Keeping Up-to-Date Aboard the Matthieson : ~ro· . J: (i,/, _., ,, (~ t I ;--~ T~ere is good, open communication aboard the Richard G. Matth1eson, according to Bosun Harry A. Johns (right), as he posts a new letterfr?m headquarters on the ship's bulletin board following a recent payoff in the port of Baltimore. With him aboard the Ocean Shipholdings, Inc. vessel is Steward/Baker Dante F. Slack. reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT noted by engine or steward delegates. Crew extended special vote of thanks to AB Michael Dunn for going ashore to purchase movies for crew. Crew thanked galley gang for job well done. Next port: Oakland, Calif. SEA-LAND SHINING STAR (Sea-Land Service), November 17-Chairman Giovanni Vargas, Secretary Robert Hess, Educational Director Ramon Borrero. Chairman distributed Seafarers WG and informed crewmembers ship headed for dry dock January 31. Steward delegate noted he was able to attend Maritime Trades Department convention in New York while upgrading at Lundeberg School in October. He informed members of topics discussed and distributed sample letters to send to individual congressmen, urging them to support maritime revitalization legislation. In additon, steward advised crewmembers of fund being set up for children of El Nino Hospital in port of San Juan as gift from crew of Shining Star. Disputed OT reported by engine delegate. No beefs or disputed OT raised by deck or steward delegates. Crew extended special vote of thanks to steward department for job well done. One moment silence observed for departed SIU brothers and sisters. Next port: Elizabeth, N .J. SEA-LAND TRADER (Sea-Land Service), November 19-Chairman Loren Watson, Secretary Vainu Sill, Educational Director Milton Sabin, Deck Delegate R~ Caruthers, Engine Delegate Saleh Guans, Steward Delegate Kenneth Clark. Chairman noted ship going into Hong Kong shipyard on December 18 until December 30 and bus service will be provided for crew into town. Treasurer reported $100 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT mended steward department for doing an excellent job. Next port: Souda Bay, Crete. SEA-LAND DEVELOPER (SeaLand Service), December 13Chairman Dana Cella, Secretary Scott Opdshl, Educational Director John Ross, Deck Delegate Sal Lagare, Engine Delegate Ahmed H~ain, Steward Delegate Don Flunker. Chairman commended crew on excellent trip and gave special thanks to deck department for job well done. He reminded members to rewind videotapes before returning them to library. Bosun advised crew that in today's political world, SPAD donations are very important. Secretary urged crewmembers to continue writing members of Congress for their help in passing maptime revitalization legislation: Educational director asked crew to continue reading Seafarers WG and take advantage of upgrading opportunities available at Lundeberg School. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crewmembers asked contracts department to look into increased dental benefits and wages in next contract agreement. Galley gang thanked for job well done with special thanks to Chief Cook Flunker for showing pride in work and putting out great meals. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. SEA-LAND PACIFIC (Sea-Land Service), December 7-Chainnan Tim Fitzgerald, Secretary George Bronson, Educational Director Gary Dohl, Deck Delegate Theodore Doi, Steward Delegate Charles At.kins. Secretary reminded crewmembers to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. Deck delegate reported disputed OT and steward delegate raised beef. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine delegate. Crew thanked steward department for extra efforts in preparing delicious meals. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. �22 SEAFARERS LOG JANUARY 1996 Lundeberg School Graduating Classes SEAFARERS HARRY LUNDEBERG SCHOOL ;~~ , ~ LIFEBOAT CLASS .. J~ s4 3 l rrvq.. -~£ E?'~~~--; QMED-Eaming their QMED endorsements on October 24 are (from left, kneeling) Brian Gelaude, Benny Orosco, Robert Nelson, John Fichter Jr., Allen Ward, (second row) Lucien Pierson, Michael Rueter, Kroeger lobst, Joseph Perry, Bruce Wright, Robert Brown Jr. and Kurt Jacobsen. Trainee Lifeboat Class 543-Graduating from trainee lifeboat class 543 are (from left, kneeling) George Burgos, Robert Barrett, Omar Carey, David Heindel, Gerald 1 ·· miijijjii.Ji!i-~aB~~~=;E Bollinger Jr., April May, (second row) Johanny Gonzalez, Aaron McBride, Corey Benesh, Chester Wheeler 111, Frank Ortiz, David Page, Michael Henry Jr. and Bob Boyle (instructor). Limited License-Receiving their certificates of completion on October 26 are (from left) Jose Lopez, Nick Moramarco, Jim Brown (instructor), James Anderson, Dave Chesson Jr., Kenneth Heller and Brian Thibodeaux. Chief Steward-SIU members completing the chief steward class on November 15 are (from left) Andre Zene, Ruti DeMont, Peter Crum, Stanley Krystosiak and Glenn Taan. Not pictured is Martin Carrico. Chief Cook-completing the chief cook course on November 15 are (from left, kneeling) Paul Guzman, Robert Arana, Daniel ldos, Wagner Pellerin, (second row) Abraham Martinez, Jioia de Leon, Oren Parker, Kristen Swain, Paula Kaleikini, Ernest Dumont Sr., Vincent Alonzo, (third row) Santiago Martinez, Daniell Wehr, James Boss and Donald Garrison. Not pictured are Wadsworth Jarrell and Blair Humes. Upgraders Lifeboat-certificates of training were received by the November 8 class of upgraders: Carlos C. Boiser Jr. (left) and Salah Asabahi. Welding-Receiving their certificates on November 13 for successful completion of the welding course are (from left, kneeling) Colin Murray, Luisito Balatbat, (second row) Roberto Flauta, Troy Wood, James Larkin Jr., Miles Copeland, Andrew VanBourg and Jim Shaffer (instructor). Tanker Operation/ Safety-Seafarers completing the tanr<er operation/safety course on November 16 are (from left, kneeling) Nick Moramarco, Chris Earhart, Joseph Saxon, Bill Dendy, Robert Nelson, Sal Tomeo, Eric Lund, Allen Ward, Jack Davis, (second row) Richard Lewis, Larry Lopez, Amado Abaniel, Bob Carle (instructor), Marjorie Harris, Garry Feurtado, Jim Scheck, (third row) Freddie Hudson, Floyd Patterson, James Lewis, Mahendra Singh, Franklin Akins, Sinclair Wilcox, Frank Bolton, Rodney Aucoin, Neil Matthey, John Fleming, (fourth row) Ernest Perreira, Kenneth Heller, Theodore Bush Ill, Gregory White, Ronald Dewitt, Rodney Pence, Zinnonnon Jackson, Winton Rich, John Osburn, John Dean, (fifth row) David Campbell, Robert Rudd and John Bennifield. �JANUARY 1996 SEAFARERS LOG LUNDEBERG SCHOOL 1996 UPSllADING COURSE SCHEDULE The following is the schedule for classes beginning between February and July 1996 at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship located at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. All programs are geared to improve the job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and-in times of conflict-the nation's security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course's start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. Deck Upgrading CoutSeS Start Course Date Date of Completion Bridge Management February 26 May6 Julyl April29 March8 May17 August9 June28 February 19 March18 April29 June24 February23 March22 May3 June28 March25 April S Limited License Able Seaman Radar Lifeboatman Engine Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion QMED ·Any Rating Fireman/Watertender & Oiler Refrigeration Systems • Maintenance & Operations Diesel Engine Technology Marine Electrical Maintenance I June 17 April 29 April29 September6 June28 June7 March 18 March 18 July 15 April 22 June3 July 15 June 10 July 15 April 1 February S May20 April26 April26 August23 May17 July 12 August23 JulyS August9 April 12 March 15 June28 Basic Electronics Marine Electronics Technician I Marine Electronics Technician II Refrigerated Containers Welding Pumproom Maintenance Power Plant Maintenance Inland Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Engineroom Operations February 5 February 16 Engineroom Troubleshooting March4 March 15 DDE/License Prep Apri122 May31 Safety Specialty Courses Course Tanker Operation/Safety Advanced Firefighting Start Date Date of Completion February5 March4 April 1 April29 May27 June24 July22 Marchl March29 April26 May24 June21 July 19 August16 February 12 April29 February23 May10 Recetfltlcatlon Programs Course Start Date Date of Completion Bosun Recertification March 4 AprilS Steward Recertification July 1 August2 Additional Courses Course Start Date GED Preparation April22 July 13 October 12 July 22 Febraury 5 March 15 April 1 MaylO March 11 March22 to be announced June3 July26 July 1 August 3 July 1 August 3 English as a Second Language (ESL) Steward Upgrading Courses Cook and Baker, Chief Cook, Chief Steward 23 Start Date Date of Completion March25 June 14 Lifeboat Preparation Introduction to Computers Developmental Math - 098 Developmental Math - 099 Date of Completion ----~--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- UPGRADING APPLICATION Name _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ (First) (Last) (Middle) Address _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _~ (Street) (City) (State) Telephone__..__ ___.__ _ _ _ __ (Monlh/Day/Y ear) (Arca Code) Deep Sea Member 0 (Zip Code) Dare of Birth _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ With this application, COPIES of your discharges must be submitted showing sufficient time to qualify yourselffor the course(s) requested. You also must submit a COPY of each of the following: the first page ofyour union book indicating your department and seniority, your clinic card and the front and back of your z-card as well as your Lundeberg School identification card listing the course(s) you have taken and completed. The admissions office WIU NOT schedule you until all of the above are received. END BEGIN DATE COURSE DATE Inland Warers Member 0 Lakes Member 0 If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security # Book# _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Seniority _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Department _ _ _ _ _ __ U.S. Citizen: D Yes D No Home Port - - - - - - - - - - - Endorsement(s) or License(s) now h e l d - - - - - - - - - - - - - Are you a graduate of the siass trainee program? DYes DNo LAST VESSEL: - - - - - - - - - - - - - Rating:----Dare O f f : - - - - - - - - - - If yes, class# - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Date O n : - - - - - - - - - - DYes DNo Have you attended any SHLSS upgrading courses? If yes, course(s) taken _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ SIGNATURE_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _DATE _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? D Yes D No Firefighting: D Yes D No CPR: D Yes DNo Primary language spoken _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. RETURN COMPLETED APPLICATION TO: Lundeberg School of Seamanship, Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075. 1196 �SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT The summary of the annual report for the Seafarers Welfare Fund may be found on page 20 in this issue of the LOG. Quest for Jobs Dominated Seafarers' Agenda in 1995 ff one word could describe 1995 for members of the Seafarers International Union, that word would be jobs. From pushing for maritimerelated legislation on Capitol Hill to the launching of a new passenger riverboat, the effort of the SIU throughout the year was on maintaining the U.S.flag merchant fleet while gaining new jobs for union members. Legislation Secures Jobs The year began with a new Republican-led Congress coming to Washington. Seafarers, pensioners and their families made sure these newly elected officials knew how important maritime is to America's economic and national security. Work soon began in both the House and Senate on bills that would provide jobs for merchant mariners into the next century. Union members worked with the SIU's legislative office in helping to secure passage of these measures. Jobs aboard tankers were provided for years to come when President Clinton signed legislation on November 28 that allows Alaskan North Slope oil to be exported as long as it is carried aboard U.S.-flag tankers. In announcing its support for the bill during Senate and House hearings, the SIU told Congress that the measure would keep the U.S.-flag independent tanker fleet sailing into the next century while providing economic and national security. SIU members wrote, called and visted with elected officials to push for this bill. Tankers loaded with the oil for export could be sailing by the summer of 1996. Another measure that was making it way through Congress in 1995 was maritime revitalization legislation ..This bill, introduced by the Clinton administration and supported by Republicans and Democrats alike, would help fund approximately 50 U.S.flag containerships over a 10- year period. Seafarers have been very active in the campaign to enact this legislation because of its importance to the maritime industry and the nation's security. By the end of the year, both chambers of Congress had approved funding for the first year of the maritime revitalization program. However, the bill to create the program had only cleared the House. Vessels Break Out While congressional legislation will help to secure jobs for mariners, the SIU also acquired new employment opportunities aboard vessels that joined the fleets of union-contracted companies during 1995. Hundreds of jobs were created in June when the American Queen began service in the SIU-contracted Delta Queen Steamboat Co. fleet. Like the Delta Queen and Mississippi Queen, the American Queen takes passengers along the Mississippi River and its tributaries. The 418-foot pad- In March, SIU President Michael Sacco told the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee that allowing the export of Alaskan North Slope oil on U.S.-flag tankers would create jobs for mariners. dlewheeler was the first overnight passenger vessel built in a U.S. shipyard in the last 40 years. Also breaking out of the yard during 1995 were two new integrated ·tug-barges for the SIUcontracted Penn Maritime fleet. The tug Eliza and barge Atlantic came on line in March, while the sister vessels, the tug Lucia and barge Caribbean, started moving petroleum along the Atlantic coast in June. During 1995, the U.S. Army launched its fleet of prepositioning ships, modeled after the sue- cessful program implemented by the U.S. Marine Corps. (The SIU already crews 13 of the vessels in the Marine Corps' fleet.) Seafarers sailed the first two of the Army's vessels from Baltimore in March after the rollon/roll-off ships were refitted to meet U.S. standards and the militmy's specifications. The SP5 Eric G. Gibson and LTC Calvin P. Titus will be joined during 1996 by five more support ships, also to be crewed by SIU members, presently being converted in American shipyards. In August, SIU-contracted Securing jobs was the top priority of the SIU during 1995. Seafarers filled a variety of positions. Clockwise from top center are Pilot Operator Steve Jean; ABs Michael Williams and lsh. mael Bryan; DEUs Walter Laux and Lupe Campbell, Bosun Tyrone Burrell and ABs Wilfred Rice and Bruce Robinson; Wiper Mohamed Omer; Tankerman William L. Matthews; and Server --...-•,rn~ Beverly White. U.S. Marine Management Inc. (USMMI) was awarded a fiveyear pact to operate the U.S. Navy's Military Sealift Command oceanographic vessels. The award meant Seafarers would crew two more vessels in the USMMI fleet, which increased to 10. New Contracts Signed New contract agreements ensured Seafarers would remain aboard their vessels in the deep sea, inland and Great Lakes divisions. · SIU members who sail aboard Crowley American Transport roll-on/roll-off vessels approved a 10-year pact that covered wages, medical and fringe benefits. Boatmen who work on tugboats and barges along the Gulf of Mexico waterways between Florida and Texas agreed to separate three-year accords. Among the companies that reached new pacts were Sabine Transportation, Moran, Higman Towing and Red Circle . Along the Atlantic coast, SIU boatmen sailing with Cape Fear Towing and Allied Towing saw to their own job security by signing independent three-year contracts. Meanwhile, on the Great Lakes, boatmen aboard Great Lakes Towing harbor tugs inked a five-year agreement. Security Through Upgrading Upgrading at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education not only prepared members to improve their skills and upgrade to new jobs, it also prepared Seafarers for the maritime jobs of the future. In addition to regularly scheduled courses to become able seamen, QMEDs and chief cooks, the center offered specialty classes at its Piney Point, Md. campus in tanker operation/safety and refrigeration technician certification, while providing harbor radar in Norfolk, Va., lifeboat training in Throughout the year, upgrading at the Lundeberg School gave mem- During 1995, Seafarers crewed several new ships. Among these were Honolulu and fire prevention bers, including (from left) Cooks Pam Johnston, Helen Brown and the U.S. Army prepositioning roll-on/roll-off vessel SP5 Eric G. Gibson, aboard Delta Queen Steamboat vessels. Nancy Avery, additional job security. which is now stationed in Saipan. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 1990-1999 Description An account of the resource Volumes LII-LXI Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993; Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource January 1996 Description An account of the resource Headlines: COAST GUARD IMPLEMENTS RECORDS CHECK PROGRAM MARAD EXTENDS OPERATING CONTRACT FOR SIU-CREWED LIBERTY BULKERS HOUSE PASSES U.S. SHIP BILL LEGISLATORS HIT DECK ADVOCATING THE NEED FOR MERCHANT FLEET SEAFARERS SAIL IN SUPPORT OF PEACEKEEPING MISSION LAKES SEASON CONTINUES DESPITE ICE, SNOW, WINDS HALL CENTER DEVELOPS COURSES FOR INLAND TANKERMEN NEW 3-YEAR PACT REACHED FOR C.G. WILLIS BOATMEN SEAFARERS CREW NEW TUG/BARGE FOR MARITRAINS LIGHTERING FLEET RETIRED PORT AGENT DONATES HISTORIC LOG TO UNION ICY WATERS PROVE NO MATCH FOR WESTWARD VENTURE UPGRADING ALLOWS GALLEY MEMBERS TO PREPARE FOR FUTURE HOLIDAYS SEAFARERS KEEP 'STICK-SHIP' SAILING THE HIGH SEAS QUEST FOR JOBS DOMINATED SEAFARERS' AGENDA IN 1995 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Vol. 58, No. 1 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 58, No. 1 1996 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/9f38d28274bf877c1ca18caf454461f2.pdf a53e220b14f7d6c33cfd955996383bc6 PDF Text Text December 1995 • Page3 Photo by AP/Wide World Photos �2 SEAFARERS LOG DECEMBER 1995 President's Report MarAd Honors Cape Race Crew RRF Ship Delivered Materiel to Croatia Grassroots Effort Delivers Last month, Seafarers received an early holiday present because of their persistent, strong, hard work. On November 28, President Clinton signed legislation supported by the SIU that will allow the export of Alaskan North Slope crude oil only aboard U.S.-flag tankers. What does this mean for Seafarers? Purely and simply, this measure will provide jobs into the next century. In passing the legislation for the president's signature, Congress realized the importance of the U.S.-flag merchant marine to America's national and economic security. The elected officials of the House and Senate Michael Sacco did not realize our industry's importance all by themselves. They had help. That assistance came from the outpouring of letters and telephone calls in support of the legislation made by Seafarersactive and retired-and their families to senators and representatives. It came from those who took the time to meet with their elected officials, visits which mean a lot to elected officials. The strong grassroots support demonstrated by Seafarers, pensioners and their families played a key role in the passage of this bill. While we take time to reflect on this legislative victory, let us not forget that there are many other battles still to fight. Seafarers must continue making phone calls and writing letters to Washington urging Congress to pass maritime revitalization legislation. Both the House and Senate have completed committee work, but neither bill has had a floor vote. With the president announcing his intention to send 20,000 U.S. troops into Bosnia as peacekeepers, America again will discover why its merchant marine is vital. The men and women who crew the U.S.-flag merchant ships will be providing the soldiers with the food, armaments, supplies and other materiel they need to successfully complete their mission. Seafarers answered their nation's call in the Persian Gulf, Haiti and Somalia earlier this decade. They are ready to serve again. Members, pensioners and their families also need to continue informing their elected officials about the importance of the nation's cabotage laws. Simply put, the cabotage laws reserve the movement of cargo and passengers within the United States to U.S.-owned, crewed and built vessels. The Jones Act, the best known of these cabotage laws, was adopted in 1920 and affects boatmen plying the rivers and inland waterways, crews on harbor tugs, members sailing the Great Lakes and mariners operating coastwise aboard deep sea vessels. The Passenger Services Act of 1886 stipulates that movement of passengers between American deep sea or inland ports be done only aboard U.S.-owned, crewed and built ships. Despite the fact Congress-from its very first session in 1789-has sought ways to protect the movement of goods between American ports, there are those on Capitol Hill attempting to overturn the Jenes Act. They would rather see foreign-flag, foreign-crewed, foreign-built vessels with their lower safety standards sailing in American waters than to keep U.S. citizens gainfully employed on boats and ships and in the yards. Seafarers already have shown what they can do in making exports of Alaskan oil aboard U.S.-flag ships the law of the land. Our continued grassroots efforts in support of maritime revitalization and the Jones Act will ensure future successes. Happy Holidays to One and All Let me take this opportunity to wish all Seafarers, whether active or retired, and their families the best this holiday season has to offer as well as a healthy and happy New Year! Volume 57, Number 12 December 1995 The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 0160-2047) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District; AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Second-class postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998 and at additional offices. POS™ASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. ~7' In compliance with the Statement of Ownership Management and Circulation (required by 39 U.S.C. 3685), PS Form 3526, October 1994, the following information is published in the December 1995 edition of the Seafarers LOG: (The first number will reflect the average number of copies of each issue during the preceding 12 months; the number in parentheses will be the actual number of copies of single issues published nearest to the filing date.) Net press run-49,967 (49,000); mail subscriptions (paid or requested)-34,479 (34,445); other free copies-12,899 (12,936); total distribution-47,378 (47 ,381); copies not distributed (for office use)-2,589 (1,619); total-49,967 (49,000). Managing Editor, Daniel Duncan; Associate Editor/Production, Deborah A. Hirtes; Associate Editors, Jordan Biscardo and Corrina Christensen Gutierrez; Art, Bill Brower; Administrative Support, Jeanne Textor. Cape Raoo crewmembers participate in a shipboard ceremony commending them for their efforts in readying the ship quickly for activation to the Bosnia area. From the left are QMEDs Joe Crute and Kevin Quinlan, SIU Port Agent Mike Paladino, AB Billy Farris and Bosun Joe Murphy. The SIU-crewed Cape Race last month received the Professional Ship Award from the U.S. Maritime Administration (MarAd) at a shipboard ceremony conducted in Portsmouth, Va. Seafarers and members of the American Maritime Officers were commended for their efforts in crewing and sailing the Ready Reserve Force (RRF) vessel for Operation Quick Lift. The Cape Race was activated June 23 for the two-month mission to support the deployment of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization's (NATO) Rapid Reaction Force in the Bosnia con{l ict. (NATO was created after World War II as a support mechanism to maintain peace in Europe. Its members include nations of western Europe, Canada and the U.S.) Crewmembers had the rollon/roll-off (RO/RO) ship ready for sea trial 23 hours after its activation, and the vessel subsequently sailed for Europe. The Cape Race carried military vehicles, ammunition and support equipment from Emden, Germany, and Marchwood, England, to Ploce, Croatia. In two trips, the vessel transported 14,400 metric tons of materiel in support of Britain's 24th Air Mobile Brigade. ''We had to hustle," said Bosun Kenny Cooper. "It was hectic. They called us Friday morning, and we got under way Saturday evening." At the October 30 ceremony, Secretary of Transportation Federico Peiia presented the award to the Cape Race crew. U.S. Representatives Owen Pickett (D-Va.) and Robert Scott (D- Va.) also were on hand to honor the mariners. Pena praised the crew for "exemplary and professional performance in support of NATO peacekeeping efforts in Bosnia, bringing honor and pride to all American merchant mariners." The secretary briefly recounted the U.S. merchant marine's long history of service to the country and added, "We must be sure they will continue to be available to serve our nation's sealift needs. He then called on Congress to complete favorable action on the Clinton administration's proposed maritime revitalization program, which has been approved by key committees in the House and Senate. Additionally, Vice Admiral Philip M. Quast, the head of the U.S. Navy's Military Sealift Command (MSC), which has operational control of the RRF ships when activated, sent a congratulatory message to the Cape Race. Quast noted the "professionalism of the officers and crew" and rated their performance as "exceptional and time, plus extras, said Mack, who commendable." has three family members who also belong to the SIU, including her 'Fascinating' Call-Up brother, Recertified Bosun When AB John Carlos, Jr. Andrew Mack. "But everything ran smoothly. reported to work aboard the Cape Race on June 23, he and the other We do our best to take care of the crew members had little crew, especially because they're away from home." foreshadowing of the call-up. "It was fascinating, the way War-Torn Country everything happened so quickly," said Cartos, 48, who has been a Quinlan and other crewmemSeafarer for 30 years. "I thought the hers agreed that the voyage, includcrew was pretty efficient. It was ing time spent ashore in Croatia, unbelievable how we got out of opened their eyes to the severity of here so fast." the conflicts in Bosnia-a war-tom The deck crew worked 19 hours country located in southeastern "securing this thing for sea," Cartos Europe near the Adriatic Sea in the noted in an interview with a LOG former Yugoslavia. Fighting has reporter from aboard the Cape raged for years in the area between Race. "There was a lot of lashing Bosnian Serbs, Croats and Musgearthathad to betaken care of We litns. didn't stop until we got the job "We talked a lot about it. You done." read about the fighting in the paper, Formerly an inland boatman, but maybe you don't pay close atCartos, who has upgraded at the tention. When you go there, you Paul Hall Center, added that the want to know more. We learned a school'strainingobviouslypaidoff lot of history," said Quinlan, who during Operation Quick Lift. "We joined the union 14 years ago. ha~acoupleof[fairlyrecent]Piney SIU crewmembers who served Pomt graduates on here, but there aboard the Cape Race during were.no greenhorns. !he7knewthe Operation Quick Lift besides termm~logy. W~ ~1dn t. have to Cooper, Cartos, Quinlan and Mack waste tlIIle explammg thmgs they were ABs John Holmes, James already were supposed to know. McCarthy, Rodolfo Orlanda, We also had a numbe~ 0 ~ people Omar Muhhamad and David who have upgraded. I thin~ it ~.hows Hartman; OMUs Jeff Bull, Troy that SIU men can do the JOb. Fleming and David VanNatter· . Bosun .Cooper obs~rved, ."The GUDEs Michael McGlone and b1gge~t thmg was gettmg a list of Curtis Nicholson; Steward/Baker supplies. Weweredowntothebone Robert Allen and SAs Mark befo~e the call-up." . Hayes and Jarvis Belle. Like the deck gang, the engine department "had a million and one .operated for MarAd by OMI things to do," stated Electrician ~hip Management, the Cape R.ace Kevin Quinlan, 35. "We had to is 648 feet loi:ig and 105 feet_w1de. prep the engines check oil levels Its home port is at Moon Engmeertest all the gea~, take the stack ing. Co: in Portsmouth, where it is covers off, blow the engines down !11amtamed by a reduced. operat(a process that removes moisture). mg status crew of 10 marmers. ... But once we were sailing, it was The RRF is a fleet of more than like being on any other ship." 90 vessels maintained by MarAd to For Chief Cook Marjorie provide prompt sealiftsupport when Mack and the rest of the galley needed for rapid deployment of gang, "it was round-the-clock military forces. The ships are crewed work. We served midnight meals, by U.S. merchant mariners and are we fed the British troops three kept in a state of readiness that typimeals per day. We had as many as cally enables them to be activated in 50 people on the ship at any one anywhere from four to 20 days. Transportation Secretary Federico Pena (center) praised the Cape Race crew upon its return to the U.S. for successfully delivering materiel to NATO forces in Bosnia. He is flanked at the Norfolk, Va. ceremony by SIU Port Agent Mike Paladino (left) and U.S. Department of Transportation official M. Nuns Jain. �DECEMBER 1995 SEAFARERS LOB U.S. Tankers Will Ca,, Atask.an a1·r Key House Members Overseas Seek Swift Action Pausing during their monthly meeting in the St. Louis SIU hall to write letters to Congress about the need for maritime revitalization are members of the SS Samuel Parker Chapter of American Merchant Marine Veterans. For U.S. Maritime Bill Seafarers Press for Measure The chairmen of three U.S. House of Representatives committees and panels as well as another member of Congress with a strong military background have called on the House majority leader to bring maritime revitalization legislation before the fun body as soon as possible. The action by the four elected officials comes at the same time Seafarers, pensioners and their families continue to contact members of Congress to enact the 10-yearprogram designed to help fund approximately 50 U.S.-flag containerships. Representatives Gerald Solomon (R-N.Y.), Rules Committee chairman; Herbert H. Bateman (R-Va.), Merchant Marine Oversight Panel chairman; Floyd Spence CE.-S.C.), National Security Committee chairman; and Randy "Duke" Cunningham (R-Calif.), a highly decorated U.S. Navy airman during the Vietnam War, told Majority Leader Dick Armey (RTexas) that H.R. 1350 (the Maritime Security Act of 1995) should be brought before the full House "for immediate consideration so that we can send a strong message to the president as to the importance of maintaining a strong United States-flag and crewed maritime fleet." The representatives said in the November 13 letter that passage of H.R. 1350 "will ensure that American soldiers will never be at the mercy of foreign-flag vessels that refuse for political reasons to carry our military cargo overseas." Jobs for Mariners The measure has the support of the SIU. Union members, pensioners and their families have been writing, calling and talking with members of Congress to info rm them that maritime revitalization is not only necessary for national security but also for America's economic wellbeing. Even at sea, SIU members, including those working aboard the Maui, OOCL Inspiration and Sea-Land Integrity, have written elected officials on the importance of the legislation. In testimony before both the House and Senate, SIU President Michael Sacco said the legisla- ti on would provide jobs into the nex t century for American mariners. Poll Reveals Support The letter from the four congressmen was sent to Armey on the same day that the Journal of Commerce published a poll showing nationwide support for the 10-year, $1 billion maritime revitalization program. Conducted during the first week of November, the poll of 999 registered voters from all 50 states reported that 71 percent approved of some type of funding for the U.S.-flag merchant fleet. Congressional Action Both chambers of Congress have been working on both authorization and funding legislation dealing with the 10-yearprogramsinceitwasproposedbythe Clinton administration in March. So far, legislation which would create or authorize the program have completed the committee process. H.R. 1350 has cleared the House Merchant Marine Oversight Panel and National Security Committee. Its companion bill in the Senate, S. 1139, has made its way through the Surface Transportation and Merchant Marine Subcommittee and the Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee. Both bills outline the program that would help fund approximately 50 U.S.-flag militarily useful containerships. The measures await a final vote by the full membership of each chamber. Neither bill actually appropriates any dollars for the program. However, the Senate voted in September to provide $46 million to fund the first year of the program. The money was part of a multi-billion-dollar appropriations bill for the Departments of Commerce, Justice and State and the U.S. Judiciary. That measure is before a House-Senate conference committee to iron out differences in the funding bills passed by the two chambers. Under the rules of Congress, separate legislation outlining the new program and funding it must be passed before it can become law. President Clinton has said he would sign maritime revitalization legislation. Legislation allowing the export of Alaskan North Slope crude oil as long as it is carried aboard U.S.-flag tankers became law November 28 when President Bill Clinton signed the measure. Both houses of Congress had passed compromise legislation earlier last month. The measure, which was supported by the SIU, will provide jobs for Seafarers sailing aboard the U.S.-flag independent tanker fleet. SIU President Michael Sacco praised the bipartisan effort of Congress and the administration in passing the legislation. ''The mei;nbers of the House of Representatives ~d the Sena«: as well as the president recogmze the need fo~ America to have ~ strong and v1ablemerchantfleet, Sacco stated. "Passage of this measure and the president's signature ensure that the U.S.-flag independent tanker fleet will sail into the next century. These ships play a vital role in America's economic and nationalsecurity,"theSIUpresident added. Sacco also noted the grassroots effort exhibited by members of the SIU, retirees and their families. "All Seafarers are to be praised and thanked for writing, calling and visiting members of Congress on this issue," he said. "Theyplayedanimportantrolein stressing to elected officials the need for this legislation for America's economic and national security." House and Senate crafted a compromise bill after each chamber passed separate legislation. The differences in the House version (H.R. 70) and the Senate bill (S. 395) did not concern either the export sale of the oil or the use of U.S.-flag tankers, both of which had received bipartisan support in committee hearings and floor debates. In order to craft compromise legislation, the conference committee had to deal with such issues as the sale of the Alaska Power Administration, funding for West Coast shipyards and offshore oil drilling in the Gulf of Mexico. The Senate had al?proved S. 395 by a 74-25 margm on May 16, while t?e House had cleared H.R. 70 with a 324-77 vote on July 24. The House considered the legislation crafted by the conference committee first. On November 8, representatives voted to pass the legislation 289134. TheSenateapprovedthecompromise bill 69-29 on November 14. Congress then sent the measure to the president for his signature. Bipartisan Effort During the debate, RepresentativeDon Young(R-Alaska), chairman of the House Resources Committee, stated, ''There can be little doubt that Congress has a 'Vital' Legislation "This legislation is important because it is vital to preserving the independent tanker fleet and the cadre of skilled men and women who proudly sail under our flag," he told his colleagues. When the Senate debated the compromise bill, Senator Frank Murkowski CR-Alaska) said passage of the legislation would mean "more U.S. ships and more jobs" · . The chrurman of the Senate Energy_ and Natural .~esour~es C?mmittee add~d, Workrn~ with small a~d 1 ~tegrated 011 rro~ucers, wi:h mdepdend~~~ an .e~ opera ors an wi maritime labor? ~e . have d.emonstrated that .1t still is possible to get som.~thing good done for the country· With the law going into effect, the 22-year ban on the export of Alaskan North Slope crude oil comes to an end. The ban originally was enacted by Congress in 1973 as a result of the Arab oil embargo. Progress of Legislation For the Export of Alaskan Oil On U.S.-Flag Tankers Deliveries Next Year Press reports following Clinton's signing of the bill noted the first export shipment may not take place until spring or summer of 1996. Companies involved in the drilling of Alaskan North Slope oil have said it will take approximately six months to find markets and arrange for the sale of the oil. Even though Alaskan North Slope oil now can be sold overseas, most of the crude will continue to be delivered to refineries along the U .S. West Coast. This means U.S.-flag tankers involved in this trade will continue to handle the loads. The oil companies that pump the Alaskan crude have said the excess oil drawn from the North Slope would be made available for export sale. Prior to the bill reaching the White House, members of the compelling interest in preserving a fleet essential to our nation's military security, especially one vital to moving an important natural resource such as [Alaskan] oil." Showing the Democrats' concern for the U.S.-flag merchant fleet was Representative Gerry Studds (D-Mass.). To Do: Completed: D Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Hearing, March 1 D Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Mark-Up, March 15 D D D D D D D D House Resources Committee Hearing, May 9 Senate Approves Bill (S.395), 74-25, May 16 House Resources Committee Mark-Up, May 17 House Approves Bill (H.R. 70), 324-77, July 24 Conference Committee Irons Out Differences in Bills, Fall House Passes Compromise Bill, 289-134, November 8 ~-=Senate , Passes Compromise Bill, 69-29, November 14 President Signs Measure, November 28 L------------------------" 3 �4 SEAFARERS LOG DECEMBER 1995 ABs, Pumpmen Can Get Tankerman-Assistant Endorsement by Carrying Letter or Discharges . U!llicensed mariners wh~ assist m tanker cargo operat10ns m~y secure t~e soon-to-be-reqm~ed, ne~ ratmg of t~erma~assistant witho?t r~newmg theu merchant manner s document (MMJ?, also kn?wn as a z-card) and without paymg any fees. . After March 31, 1~9.6, ~nlicensed personnel · d tank part1c1patmg 1!1 eep-sea er cargo operatlons (ABs and pumpmen) must .fi d tank · b e certi ~e as erman-assistant. Marmersmay getthatendor. . . semen~ by keepmg, .rn t~eir possession proof ofhavmg sailed . at 1east 30 days aboard tankers m the past five years, between April 1, 1991andMarch31,1996. This is considered a grandfather provision to the regulation requiring the endorsement. The verification may be in the form of either an explanatory letteror appropriate discharges (see separate story, "Getting the TankennanAssistant Endorsement"). Because of concerns raised by the SIU, the U.S. Coast Guard agreed not to require mariners to renew their z-cards solely in order to secure the new endorsement. Instead, the agency consented to the union's request that mariners be allowed to use either the letter or discharge until the z-card ex- pires. Then, when renewing his or her z-card, a rr_iariner who poss~sses the ~eqwred letter or discharge will have the endorsement a_dded t~ the ~ocument (see s1deb.~, Renewmg after March 1997 ). Generally, the same proof-ofcert~fication rules will apply for manners who need any of. the newly cr~ated tankerman ~atm¥s, all of which stem from an mtenm fi al . . . rn rule issued m Apnl. by the Coast Guard. The others . mclude tankerman-perso~ rn charge (PIC)(barge), restncted tanker. man-PIC, restncted tankermanPIC (barge) and tankermanengineer. Each endorsement is valid for five years. (Inland mariners currently endorsed as tankennen automatically will become tankermen-PICs as of March 31, 1996.) "A mariner who meets the 'grandfather' requirements for [the tankerman-assistant] endorsement may sail from March 31, 1996, until their MMD is endorsed if they provide evidence of qualifying service ... ," said Capt. J.E. Schrinner, who heads tlie Coast Guard's Compliance Division, in a November 29 letter to Bill Eglinton, director of vocational education at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. The final rule may not be published until December 1996. But, Schrinner added in the letter, "The Coast Guard will publish soon a Navigation and Vessel Inspection Circular concernin the im lementation of th tank g re:ulations. . . . [~ean:~!] pleas e aI e rt your memb ers th a t' the must be careful to meet the d ydl" r , df th , ea mes ior gran a er endorsements" (namely that each · · manner sh ow proor' o f h avmg sailed aboard tankers for at least · th e pas t f.1ve 30 d ays d urmg ) years · ABs and P.umpmen who need to renew theu z-cards betwee.n n?w an~ ~hen the C~ast Guard crrcular i~ issued (possibly by the end of this ~onth), and w~o have a lett~r or disc.barge showmg appropnaf1?expenenceforthetanker~an:ass1stanten~orsement, should mqurre at the ti.m~ _and place of renewal about rece1vmg the endorsementontheMMD. The rule establishing the new ratings stems from the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (OPA '90), the 1978 Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW), and the Port and Tanker Safety Act of 1978. SIU's 'Buck' Stephens Dies at 18 Casper J. "Buck" Stephens, former longtime SIU port agent in the Gulf Coast region, died of natural causes November 14 at Mercy-Baptist Medical Center in New Orleans. He was 78. Brother Stephens began his sailing career in the mid-1930s, before the SIU' s founding. He became a charter member of the Seafarers and eventually held all engine department ratings. He sailed in the deep sea, inland and Great Lakes divisions. The lifelong New Orleans area resident first came ashore in 1940 to work as a patrolman. He returned to sea during World War II and sailed in all combat zones. After the war, Brother Stephens again came ashore to work for the Seafarers, in the Gulf Coast region. He served as a dispatcher and an engineroom patrolman from 1947 until 1960, when he was elected port agent. He served in that capacity at the SIU' s hall in New Orleans until he retired in December 1978. "Buck was a great union man. He believed in the SIU and maritime workers," said SIU PresidentMichaelSacco. "He participated in everything. He devoted his whole life to his union and his family, and he loved both. He will be sorely missed by all of us." "He was a very dedicated and compassionate person. I worked withhimformanyyears,"recalled SIU Executive Vice President Joseph Sacco. "He understood seamen and their plight. Outside of his immediate family, the SIU was his home and his second family." Brother Stephens was a veteran of many SIU organizing drives and strikes. He hit the bricks as early as the Bonus Strike of 1939, when Seafarers refused to sail without war risk insurance and bonus provisions. He also was active in the 1946 General Strike, when the SIU executedacomplete work-stoppage on all vessels to convince steamship companies to negotiate new contracts. (Among other things, the union sought establishment of a 40-hour work week.) Additionally, he actively participated in the Isthmian organizing drive and strike from 1945-47. That effort culminated in the company signing a full SIU contract. In addition to his activities with the SIU, he served as secretarytreasurer of the Greater New Orleans Port Council of the Maritime Trades Department. He held that same position in the Greater New Orleans AFL-CIO. After he retired, he still attended port council meetings and the SIU's monthly membership meetings. He also did extensive volunteer work to help secure veterans' status for U.S. merchant mariners who sailed during World War II. Active Seafarers and retired officials alike remember Stephens as a hard-working individual dedicated to the SIU and the U.S.-flag maritime industry. "Hebroughtmeintothisunion in 1959. I knew him for a long time. He's good people," said OMU Rafael Duran. Pumpman William Dunklin said he knew Stephens "for about 20 years. He was a good fellow. He treated everybody fair." Several active and retired officials mentioned that Brother Stephens and Joe DiGiorgio, late secretary-treasurer of tfie SIU, were raised in the same orphanage (Hope Haven) near New Orleans. They also began their respective sailing careers at the same time. "I knew Buck my whole life. He was an amazing person, one of the most efficient port agents I've ever known," said Jim Martin, retired SIU port agent who worked with Stephens in the Gulf Coast region for 10 years. "He had a knack for keeping records that you just wouldn't believe.... I spoke Buck Stephens, pictured here at the New Orleans hall in 1972, was a charter member of the SIU and a longtime port agent. with him two or three times a week until he passed away." "He was a terrific official. He had a great rapport with the members, and he also had the respect of the steamship companies," said Angus "Red" Campbell, retired SIU vice president contracts. "When I was still sailing and the ships were running into New Orleans, he was always there when you needed him. No problem was too small to resolve." "Buck was a man of his word," said Ed Mooney, retired SIU headquarters representative and assistant secretary-treasurer. "He was well-thought of by the members and the shipowners." Brother Stephens is survived by his daughter, Carol Stephens Zanca; two brothers, Andrew H. and Ashton L. "Steve" Stephens, a retired Seafarer; and two grandchildren. Funeral services took place at Lamana-Panno-Fallo Funeral Home in Metarie, La. Burial occurred at Lake Lawn Mausoleum. Brother Stephens' family requests that in lieu of flowers, contributions be made to the charity of one's choice. • • Getting the Tankerman-Ass1stant Endorsement: What Mariners Need In order to be considered certified under the grandfather provision as a tankerman-assistant, mariners will need one of the following: • a letter on company letterhead or • discharges. • The mariner must keep the letter or discharge in his or her possession while aboard ship. The letter must be from the owner, operator, master or chief engineer of the vessel. It should state the applicant assisted in the transfe_r of liquified gas (LG) or dangerous liquid (DL) or both on tanksh1ps before March 31, 1996, and dtd so within five years of the date of application. The letter also should indicate that the mariner served at least 30 days as an AB or pumpman on tankships certi!ied to carry LG or DL or both (appropriate to the endorsement applied for) before March 31, 1996, and did so within five years of the date of application. The other option is to use certificates of discharge proving at least 30 days of service as an AB or pumpman on tankships certified to carry DL or LG (or both) before March 31, 1996, with a dischar9e date within five years of the date of application. Applicants for the tankerman-assistant endorsement who do not meet the grandfather provision requirements must do the following: pass a physical exam; be at least 18 years of age· complete a basic firefighting course (such as the one offered at PaLI:I Hall Center); speak af'!d understand English; show proof of having completed a course m DL or LG; and present evidence of at least 90 days of deck service on tankships. the Renewing after March 1997 Mariners who secure any of the new tankerman endorsements via a grandfather provision initially will not have to have the endorsements listed on their z-cards. However, when a mariner renews his or her document after March 31, 1997, the endorsement must be added. When renewing after that date, a mariner must show proof of having qualified for the endorsement under the grandfather provision. Based on the interim final rule issued by the Coast Guard that requires the new tankermen endorsements of ABs. pumpmen and inland tankermen involved in tanker cargo operations, it also seems likely that when those mariners renew their z-cards after March 31, 1997, they will need to show proof of having completed a Coast Guard-approved course relative to the respective rating. The SIU has requested that if the final rule requires passage of a course in order to secure any of the new endorsements after March 31, 1997, then the Paul Hall Center's four-week tanker operation/safety class should count toward getting the rating of tankerman-assistant. Additionally, passage of the Paul Hall Center's four-weektankerman course (a different class from tanker operation/safety) already would meet the requirement for the tankerman-person in charge (PIC)(barge) endorsement for boatmen. The Seafarers LOG will continue to publish updates on this situation. USCG Asks for Input On Effect of Upcoming International Regs In July, a two-year series of meetings culminated in the updating of an international agreement that sets minimum standards for certification, training and skills needed by mariners worldwide. Now, the Coast Guard and other affected parties in the U.S. face the task of determining how much it will cost to comply with the new rules, known as the 1995 Amendments to the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and W atchkeeping (STCW). The STCW is a 17-year-old pact that has 113 signatory countries (including the U.S.) whose fleets represent nearly 95 percent of the world ' s merchant-ship tonnage. The STCW amendments take effect in February 1997, and in part will be enforced by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). Randall Crenwelge of the Coast Guard's Standards Evaluation and Development Division noted that assessing the various costs for different training, evaluation and certification of merchant mariners will enable the agency to issue a rulemaJcing that allows for cost-effective compliance. ''The U.S. must comply with the STCW, ·but the more efficient we are in the rulemaking, the less money it should cost the government, the individual mariners, unions, training institutions, employers and other affected members of the maritime industry," said Crenwelge. "A key part of that process will be determining exactly what kinds of training are needed to meet the STCW requirements, and does such training already take place in the U.S.?" Among the many measures that will be implemented on which the Coast Guard wants input as to the cost of putting them in place are: • Requiring mariners to demonstrate their competence both through written tests and practical exams. • Requiring all crewmembers of seagoing vessels to complete training in basic survival skills. The SIU will be reviewing all aspects of the STCW and submitting comments to the Coast Guard in behalf of the union and its members. Seafarers who would like to provide input to the SIU' s comments should contact Bill Eglinton, director of vocational education at the Paul Hall Center, at P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674. �DECEMBER 1995 SEAFARERS LOG Task Force Forms to Retain Jones Act Coalition of Labor, Industr and Others Launches Grassroots Effort Representatives of Congress, American maritime labor, U.S.flag carriers, domestic shipyards and pro-national defense coalitions reaffirmed their total support of the nation's cabotage laws when they introduced the formation of a group to keep the Jones Act and other cabotage laws in place. " T h e basic need for enactMichael Sacco ing the 1 o n e s Act-namely, national and economic security-is as valid today as it was 75 years ago," SIU President Michael Sacco, who also is president of the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department (MTD), said at a meeting of the Washington Propeller Club on November 30. "Simply put, this law has worked!" Joining Sacco in calJing for the retainment of the Jones Act were Rep. Herbert Bateman (R-Va.); C. Bradley Mulholland, president and CEO of the SIU-contracted Matson Navigation Co.; John Dane, president of Trinity Marine Group, which owns and operates 22 shipyards in the southern U.S.; and retired U.S. Navy Rear Ad- miral Robert H. Spiro Jr., former under secretary of the Army and current vice president of the American Security Council Foundation, one of the country's preeminent pro-defense groups. They spoke to an audience of more than 250 people on Capitol Hill, including other congressmen and members of the maritime industry. The meeting marked the announcement of the formation of the Maritime Cabotage Task Force, a coalition of more than 300 shipbuilding and repair yards, labor organizations (including the SIU), rail, trucking and airline groups, pro-defense coalitions, maritime vendors, equipment manufacturers and ship operators in every U.S. trade. The task force has been formed to combat efforts of organizations trying to overturn the Jones Act, a 1920 law that states cargo moved between domestic ports must be carried aboard U.S.owned, crewed and built vessels. Thousands of Jobs Sacco noted that because of the Jones Act, "120,000 American citizens-employed on the domestic waterways of the United States, in domestic shipyards, and in related industries-are able to earn a decent living. With these earnings they pay taxes to all levels of government, and they can purchase the goods and services offered by other sectors of the economy." He informed the group that the MTD and four other AFLCIO trade Herbert Bateman and industrial departments have joined the task force "and are actively engaged in spreading the message to America's working people ... The MTD also will utilize its network of port maritime councils to generate grassroots activity to urge Congress to reject this shortsighted repeal effort." Bateman, whose district includes the Newport News (Va.) shipyards, stated, "I look upon the Jones Act as vitally important to the continued existence and, hopefully, the rebuilding of a greater merchant marine and shipbuilding industry." He added that the threat by international conglomerates who are financing the campaign to ruin the Jones Act comes at "a critical juncture in the history of the American merchant marine. It alarms me that I've had to say this more than once, but we' re not Seafarers March in Support Of Striking Boeing Machinists Scores of Seafarers hit the as at factories in Wichita, Kan. bricks on November 12 with and Portland, Ore. As of press more than 2,000 other trade time, the strike was entering its unionists to demonstrate their third month with no settlement in support for Seattle-based mem- sight. bers of the International Associa"Our members wanted to let tion of Machinists (IAM) who are the Machinists know we stand on strike against the Boeing Com- with them," noted SIU Assistant pany. Vice President Bob Hall. "We In a fight over job security and had an excellent turnout of the preservation of health care Seafarers along with the memberbenefits, nearly 33,000 ship of many other unions based Machinists walked off the job in Seattle." against the world's largest comPledging their continued supmercial jet manufacturer on Oc- port at the unity rally for the striktober 6. ing workers was the newly Machinists are manning picket elected president of the AFLJines outside Boeing facilities in CIO. the Seattle area (where the com"We' re going to spend pany has its headquarters) as well whatever it takes, work as hard as it takes and stick with it as long as it takes to help Boeing workers win the respect you have earned and deserve," John 1. Sweeney told the crowd of trade unionists at the rally. "All we're looking for is a partnership with practical solutions to keep aerospace jobs and technologies here," added IAM President George J. Kourpias. "Not just because we are Americans, but because we've worked too long and too hard to build the Boeing Company." The IAM has noted Boeing has been outsourcing manufacturing work to overseas and nonunion U.S. companies for the last decade. The amount of components used in Boeing jets made by the company's workers has decreased from 75 percent in the late 1980s to 48 percent today. During this time, the company recorded profits of more than $6 billion. Machinists also object to health care ideas proposed by the company. Boeing has sought to dealing in this session of Congress with the revitalization of the American merchant marine. We're dealing with its survival, and it must survive. This is too vital to America's security to allow otherwise." Mulholland, whose company operates ships sailing between the West Coast and Hawaii, pointed outthatMatsonandotherJonesAct carriers pay U.S. taxes and "reinvest profits back into the U.S. economy. Over the last 10 years, Matson has invested $360 million in new vessels and vessel reconstruction in the Hawaiian trades." He noted that while American operators, U.S.-flag vessels and their crews must comply with a myriad of safety and environmental regulations, foreign-flag ships cannot be held similarly accountable. "They're not subject to these laws, and they can pay Third W or 1 d rates to their crews and make Bradley Mulholland them work under unsafe conditions," Mulholland observed. "It would be grossly unfair to allow foreign- flag operators, who do not have to abide by U.S. laws and regulations, to ply the dome st i c trades in c o mp et i tion with U.S. operJohn Dane ators who play by the rules. "This is a matterof fundamental fairness to American industry." 'Misinformation' Trinity's Dane described the efforts of the enemies of the Jones Act as "a campaign of misinformation. There is no more vital piece of legislation to the maritime industry as a whole." Dane explained that the Jones Act "doesn't cost the federal government anything." He also cautioned that repeal of the cabotage laws, which would allow subsidized foreign-flag vessels to sail between American ports, eventually would force the closings the majority of U.S. shipyards. "Without the Jones Act, the federal governm e n t would be forced to shoulder the full cost of mainRobert Spiro taining a national shipbuilding and repair base. So in fact, the 1 Jones Act saves the government money." Spiro stressed that any erosion of the domestic trades threatens America's security. "Cabotage is essential to U.S. national security. It lies at the root of maritime power," he said. "Simply put, we believe that the United States must not allow foreign interests to dominate the waterborne side of our national transportation system-neither international, nor domestic. The Showing the SIU colors atthe rally American fleet is our lifeline of are AB Jose Frometa and his wife, freedom." Kathleen. Pledge to Fight The Maritime Cabotage Task Force has pledged to provide elected officials and the public with information on the economic, national security, commercial, safety and environmental benefits of the nation's cabotage laws. Among the facts brought out by the group was the U.S.-flag domestic fleet, excluding fishing vessels, accounts for nearly $15 billion in economic activity and moves one billion tons of cargo annually. The task force plans to provide SUPPORTS speakers around the country to show how America's transportation systems are interrelated. Philip Grill, who heads the task force, noted, "Similar laws apply to America's domestic trucking, railroad and airline industries-indeed to virtually all work done in the country." Grill, an official with Matson, Moving to their position in the march are (from left) DEU Mark Mullen, pointed out that more than 40 of Ready to march with Boesing Bosun Vern Poulsen lets others Chief Cook Robert Shaw, OMU Joe Laguana, Bosun Ernie Duhon, the world's maritime nations Machinists is AB Mitchell French. know he is behind the Machinists. OMU Tom Steinke and Patrolman Joe Mieluchowski. have cabotage laws in place. discontinue health care coverage promised to pensioners who left the company under early retirement plans. For its present workforce, the aerospace giant has sought substantial increases in both the premiums and deductibles paid by the workers. 5 �6 NOVEMBER 1995 SEAFARERS LOG Appeals Court Hears SIU Case Against Z-Card, License Fees In a spirited exchange during a November 7 hearing before three federal district appeals court judges, the SIU' s attorney insisted that the history of merchant mariner's licenses and documents proves that these items were developed for the benefit of shipping companies, cargo, passengers, communities, the national defense and the environment-and not for individual seamen and boatmen. This point is critical to the SIU's position that a U.S. Coast Guard applied fee for the issuance of merchant mariner's documents and marine licenses is impermissible because no private benefit is accrued by the individual seaman or boatman. The U.S. Coast Guard, on the other hand, which was authorized by the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1990 to charge so-called user fees for merchant mariner's documents (z-cards) and licenses, argued before the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia that the individual mariner enjoys a private gain by holding a z-card or a license and thus the agency can charge the seaman for his or her document or license. Case First Filed in '93 The November 7 hearing is the most recent step in the SIU' s court challenge of fees imposed on Coast Guard-issued z-cards and marine licenses. Labeling the fees a "work tax" on seamen and boatmen, the SIU filed its original court challenge April 15, 1993 in the United States District Court for the District of Columbia shortly after the Coast Guard's regulations spelling out the fee structure went into effect. On November 23, 1994, Federal District Court Judge Louis F. Oberdorfer ruled on the SIU's lawsuit. He found in favor of the union's position that the Coast Guard could not charge a mariner $17 for the FBI background check necessary to obtain a z-card or license. Judge Oberdorfer noted that the seaman or boatman does not retain a private benefit from this check; the investigation is done in behalf of public safety. The judge also ordered the Coast Guard to recalculate the fee schedule, agreeing with the SIU' s contention that the charges imposed by the agency had been calculated in a flawed manner. However, Judge Oberdorfer ruled in favor of the Coast Guard position that under the law, seamen and boatmen can be charged for z-cards and licenses. In his written opinion, Judge Oberdorfer stated that it "is not irrational" to assume that such documents confer "the benefit of professional employment." He added, "A professional license for a seaman is not materially different from a license for any number of professions." It is this part of the federal district judge's decision that the SIU is challenging in the U.S. 485 f!pgraders Complete Tanker Safety Class in 195 With the graduation this month of more than 50 upgraders from the Paul Hall Center's tanker operation/safety course, the total number of Seafarers who have completed the class this year in Piney Point, Md. will increase to 485. Designed especially for all Seafarers who sail aboard tankers, the four-week course blends practical training with classroom instruction. (Steward department members who sign up for the class are required to take only the first two weeks of the course.) It is open to all SIU members. Recently, the Paul Hall Center's Lundeberg School announced that the course will be available to Seafarers throughout 1996. As has been the case this year, each class in '96 will be held in consecutive four-week blocks. The 1996 schedule for the first seven courses is as follows: For registration information and a schedule ofupcoming courses, see page 23 of this issue of the Seafarers LOG. Next month's issue will include course dates for the entire year. Earlier this year, the Seafarers Appeals Board (SAB) promulgated a change in the Shipping Rules as a result of agreements reached during negotiations in 1993 between the SIU and its contracted tanker companies. Effective January 1, 1996, SAB Action #376 gives priority (within each level of seniority) for jobs aboard tank vessels to Seafarers who have successfully completed the tanker operation/safety course, for as long as the course is being offered. For example, if two A-book members each throw in for an AB job aboard a tanker, but qnly one has completed the tanker operation/safety course, then he or she would get the job. The change is intended "to enhance and protect the job security of the membership," according to the SAB. Along those lines, one of the course's main goals is highlighting the need to prevent oil spills, shipboard fires and other potential problems related to tanker operations. The curriculum emphasizes that such prevention is important from safety and environmental standpoints, as well as because a single hazardous materials marine disaster literally can cost hundreds of millions of dollars. Seafarers who take the course receive detailed instructions on how to prevent accidents, as well as whatto do in case a mishap occurs. The SIU is seeking to invalidate the U.S. Coast Guard's so-called user fees for merchant mariner's documents and licenses. That challenge was taken up by the U.S. Court of Appeals last month. Entering the federal courthouse in Washington, D.C. to attend the hearing are (from left) FOWT Larry Brown, Bosun Jack Davis, Chief Steward Colleen Mast, Chief Steward Malcolm Holmes, SIU Representative Edd Morris, Cook/Baker Jeannie Wilson, Chief Steward Deborah Koen, SIU Executive VP Joseph Sacco and Chief Cook Carmelita Henry. public safety, a draft system to be used in the event the nation's defense interests were mobilized and for the environment. He cited the most recent example of the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 which Appeals Court Review required that z-cards be renewed The appeals of both parties every five years. were filed in the early part of 1995. Subsequently the SIU and How Far Can An Agency Go? the U.S. Department of Justice, The Justice Department attorwhich is representing the Coast ney argued that legal cases for Guard in this case, filed written over 20 years established a briefs before the Appeals Court. government agency's ability to At the November 7 hearing, set a fee. He also argued that "the which was attended by 12 Court has never asked whether Seafarers, the SIU and the public justification of a licensing government presented oral argu- requirement itself ultimately ments where three judges had an benefits the licensees." opportunity to ask questions of He continued, "The court is each side. Hearing the case were looking to see does the agency Chief Judge Harry T. Edwards, r~quire ea:h individu~l t? _get a Circuit Judge Karen LeCraft hcense. ~fit does, the mdlVldual, Henderson and Circuit Judge not the mdustry as a whole, the Judith W. Rogers. individual gets the primate benefit of permission to engage in Public vs. Private Benefit the activity." In his opening statement, the After this remark, Chief Judge S I U' s attorney stated that Edwards interrupted, "The prob"mariners represent a special lem is you can go too far with that class of workers against whom because you could throw things the occupational licensing fee and say, well, this is just incident cannot be charged" based on the to our licensing process, when, in legal criteria that exists for im- fact, if anyone looked carefully, posing user fees. you would say it is not necessary The SIU attorney told the in order to make the inquiry that panel of judges that prior legal is reasonably related to what this cases prevented a fee from being license is about." assessed "when the identification In response, the government's of the ultimate beneficiary is attorney argued that as Jong as the obscure ant the service can agency has authority to require primarily be considered as the license, the government does benefitting broadly the general not question the fees established. public." Chief Judge Edwards asked He noted that laws calling for the government's lawyer, documenting and licensing "Doesn't it have to be reasonable seamen have been imposed since fees that are reasonably related to, the 1800s. In every case, the pur- as it turns out, the public interest pose has been far different from justifying the license requirement the kinds of licensing that exist in in the first place?" a self-regulated sector such as The chief judge explained that those involving doctors and this line of questioning was lawyers. relevant to the case because the Chief Judge Edwards chal- District Court had determined lenged the contention of the that the fee of $17 passed on to a SIU' s attorney noting that mariner for an FBI background lawyers, doctors, even public check was not reasonably related broadcast stations, all of which to the public interest inquiry juspay a fee for their licenses, tifying the license. receive their licenses with some Following up on his point, public interest in mind. "There is Chief Judge Edwards a.>ked the a public interest in knowing those Justice Department attorney to people can do their job and do it address a hypothetical situation. correctly." "So you think you can put the fee The SIU' s lawyer observed of testing the [boat's] equipment that mariners, unlike those oc- on the individual as a condition of cupations, were federally regu- licensing?" lated and licensed. Among the The government's lawyer reasons Congress enacted laws answered, "If there is substantive establishing licensing regimes, authority to do that, yes." the SIU' s lawyer said, were Chief Judge Edwards asked Court of Appeals. The Coast Guard, on the other hand, appealed Judge Oberdorfer's ruling that $17 could not be charged for an FBI background check. incredulously, "The government says we have substantive authority to make sure these boats are safe, and that is going to be from - now, we decided it makes a lot of sense to make it part of the licensing requirement, so anyone who is going to work on the boat is going to pay for maintenance and inspection of the boats as well. That is another $3,000 per person for your license." The Justice Department attorney noted that theoretically this would be permissible if the limit was not "excessive." Chief Judge Edwards noted that the U.S. Court of Appeals would have to take up the issue of under what conditions an agency could set a license fee once it had the authority to do so. The chief judge told the government attorney, "I am talking about how you draw the line between what is in and what is out" as found in the issue of whether the Coast Guard can charge $17 for an FBI investigation. Joining the Suit Joining the SIU, which includes the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District; the Marine Firemen's Union and the Sailors Union of the Pacific, in the case against the z-card user fees are four other unions: District 4~National Maritime Union/ MEBA, District No. I-Marine Engineers Beneficial Association, American Maritime Officers and the International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots. Additionally five individual mariners serve as plaintiffs. Meeting with the 12 Seafarers who attended the hearing, the SIU' s attorneys said a decision from the Appeals Court would be made next year. Because any decision of the court will establish case law that could impact have a widespread impact on the use of user fees by the government in many areas, the SIU attorneys believe the Appeals Court will carefully consider all aspects of the union's challenge. Asked by the Seafarers present at the hearing to estimate a time in which the Appeal Court would act, SIU attorneys calculated somewhere between six months and a year. In the meantime, the Coast Guard will continue to charge between $35 and $300 for z-cards and licenses, depending on the ratings and levels involved. �DECEMBER 1995 SEAFARERS LOG Runaway1s Scant Food, ad H20 Provokes Speedy ITF Operation The 26-man Ukrainian crew of the runaway-flag ship Inzhener Parkhonyuk was expected to make an 18-day trans-Atlantic voyage on three dozen eggs, a few vegetables, a bag each of sugar and flour and contaminated drinking water. While in port, the crew was expected to subsist on fish caught by the steward in the Baltimore harbor. This plan was brought to a halt by the quick intervention of the International Transport Workers Federation (ITF), the Londonbased organization comprised of more than 400 transport unions around the world, including the Seafarers International Union (SIU). ITF Inspector Edd Morris, an SIU representative who assists the worldwide trade union group in its campaign to ensure that substandard ships are caught, visited the Liberian-flag bulk carrier on November 6 after a crewmember contacted the SIU hall in Baltimore complaining of the deplorable conditions aboard the 18-year-old vessel. During an inspection of the vessel, Monis witnessed the ship's depleted stores and polluted water supply. The ITF inspector advised the U.S. Coast Guard of the situation and contacted the ship's agents in Baltimore. Additional1y, he advised the Liberian ship registry'soffice,basedinReston, Va., of the dire problems aboard the Inzhener Parkhonyuk. Pay Disappears Monis also met with the crew to investigate grievances that no pay had been received for three months. Following up on the crew's wage complaints, Morris met with the captain of the lnzhener Parkhonyuk, whaclaimed that despite his requests none of the parties responsible for the ship had forwarded funds for salaries. In this interview, Morris learned of the vessel's switch of ownership and registry, a tactic often employed by runaway-flag vessel owners to avoid costs and dodge legal actions. (Runaway-flag vessels are those registered in nations that operate ship registries with very lax conditions and requirements. Essentially, in exchange for paying a fee to register a vessel in that country, a shipowner is allowed to pay no taxes, meet only minimal safety requirements and hire crews from anywhere in the world. Runaway registries allow shipowners to avoid the more stringent regulations of traditional maritime nations.) According to the Inzhener Parkhonyuk captain, over the summer, the vessel operated under the Ukrainian flag, sailing for the Black Sea Shipping Company of Odessa In September, the captain received notice that the /nz)umer Parklwnyuk had been sold to a company called Pacific Seafarers and the vessel would be transferred to Liberian registry. Additionally, crewing arrangements under the new operation were handled by Tor Shipping Limited ofLimassol, Cyprus. Adding to the confusion of who was providing what for the crew, the captain noted that the ship had been chartered by the East Asia Company of Copenhagen, Denmark and was time chartered from East Asia by Blue Deck Marine of Canada. The captain advised Morris that he had contacted all the companies involved but had not received direction from any of them regarding the pay of the crew. Morris also learned that the captain believed crewmembers '' Switching registries is a device often used by runaway-flag shipowners to evade expenses. As the newly painted port of registry indicates, the ship swapped from the Ukrainian flag to that of Liberia. In the three months since the vessel has been operating under Liberia's ship registry, crewmembers have not received any pay. would be facing a reduction in pay because of the flag switch from Ukrainian to Liberian ship registry. Under the Ukrainian pay scale, the master was paid $1,335 per month, the AB received between $380 and $445 per month, and the chief cook's salary was $410 per month. (All salaries inelude overtime.) To assist the crewmembers in tracking their three months of back wages, Morris contacted the ship's Baltimore agent, the various companies connected to the vessel and the Liberian ship registry office. The day after Morris inspected the lnzhener Parkhonyuk, the U.S. Coast Guard placed a hold on the ship's departure. Authorities Arrest Ship The agency found that not only was the ship's drinking water contaminated, but also the vessel lacked a financial responsibility certificate which is required of all ships entering U.S. waters. The certificate of financial responsibility (CFR) verifies the ship has insurance coverage in the event of an accident. The agency also determined that insufficient stores were aboard for the ship to make its 18-day Baltimore-to-Alexandria, Egypt voyage. The Coast Guard quickly held the vessel, preventing it from departing, until the lnzhener Parkhonyuk showed proof of insurance coverage, clean water and enough food for an 18-day trip. On November 12, the Coast Guard released the vessel after verifying the ship's water purifier had been repaired so that clean drinking water was produced, adequate stores were aboard for With paltry stores aboard, SIU's ITF inspector Edd Morris found an 18-day trip and a CFR had crewmembers on the lnzhener Parkhonyuk subsisting on fish caught been obtained. While the ship's Baltimore in the Baltimore harbor. ITF Inspector Edd Morris confirmed the complaints of the ship's Ukrainian crew about insufficient food supplies and contaminated drinking water. Photo at left shows only one bag of flour and one bag of sugar for the crew's upcoming 18-day trip. The boxes above do not contain any food. The middle photo shows the three dozen eggs which were to keep the crew fed druing the ship's voyage to Egypt. At right is the empty meat locker. agent came up with a CFR, additional stores and funds to repair the water purifier, no monies appeared with which to pay the crewmembers. Morris contacted the ITF' s London office which has pledged to use its global network of ship inspectors to continue to visit the ship whenever it comes into port. The ITF also is pursuing the back pay claim with the ship's owners. Classic Case Morris noted that the /nzhener Parkhonyuk case is a classic example of the kinds of abuse crewmembers on runaway-flag ships face. "Shipowners use runaway registries to layer responsibility between lots of different companies," said Morris in an interview with the Seafarers LOG. "That way they try to get away with cheating on wages, skimping on food and any other thing they can do to cut costs." The ITF' s campaign against runaway shipping is dedicated to catching these kind of abuses, added Morris. The SIU participates actively in the ITF' s campaign to improve working conditions and pay for seamen working on runaway-flag ships. 7 �8 SEAFARERS LOG DECEMBER 1995 High Demand lor Cargo Extends '95 Lakes Season nounced they will continue operations past the traditional layup date. Operating on an "extended season," American Steamship Company (ASC) plans to keep several of their lakers in service until midnight on January 15, the date that the Soo Locks in Ste. St. Marie, Mich. close. (The closure of the Soo Locks brings an actual end to most shipping on the Great Lakes since the locks are the only entrance into Lake Superior from the lower four.Lakes.) . ~ccordmg to Donald Pfohl, director of mann e personnel ~or ASC, t_he SIUcrewed bulkersAmencanRepublzc,~ohnJ. Bo~nd and Walter 1. McCarthy will run until !he end o_f December. Ho'Yever, the Amencan Manner, Buffalo, Indiana Harbor, Sam Laud, St. Clair, H. Lee White and Charles E. Wilson will continue transporting iron ore, coal and stone until the Soo Locks close.. . . Meanwhile, SIU members sallmg aboardtheS.T. Crapo, E.~. FordandPaul Work into January H: Townsend rece!ltly signed off for _the In order to meet the booming demand wmter. after prepanng the cement earners for commodities on the Lakes, several for wmter layup. Other Inland Lakes SIU-contracted companies have an- Management vessels, the J.A. W. Iglehart Even though the traditional end to the 1995 navigational season on the Great Lakes is December 20, many Seafarers who sail aboard SIU-contracted vessels on lakes Michigan, Huron, Ontario, Superior and Erie will continue sailing into the new year, possibly surpassing 1994's recordbreaking cargo moving figures. "There has been a gang-buster demand on the Lakes this season," said Glen Nekvasil of the Lake Carriers' Association, an organization of U.S.-flag shipping companies on the Great Lakes. "Every serviceable vessel has been running strong all year long to meet the tremendously high demand for iron ore, coal, stone and other commodities in the Great Lakes region," he stated. Should such a good shipping season continue into 1996, Nekvasil noted the 1995 navigational season will surpass last year's record total of 115 million tons of cargo transported. ·- Because of great demand for cargo and a mild autumn, the 1995 sailing season for Great Lakes vessels, like the SIU-crewed Sam Laud, has been extended into January. and Alpena, wil1 continue operating on the Lakes until the end of the month. Because they never have to pass through the Soo Locks, several SIUcrewed Hannah Marine tugboats will continue transporting petroleum products along lakes Michigan, Huron and Erie. Five of the 12 Hannah tugs will continue to fill the demand for petroleum during the winter months. They are the Susan W. Hannah Mary Page Hannah Mark Hannah vdnald c. Hannah and' the Hannah D. Hannah. Other SIU-crewed Hannah tugs will run until the end of 1995 when they will go into their respective winter ports until the spring. They are the James A. Hannah, Mary E. Hannah, Margaret M. Hannah, Kristin Lee, Peggy D. Hannah and Daryl c. Hannah. SIU Boatmen's Skilled Care Results In 'Good as New' 57-Year-Old Tug Erie Sand Steamship Co.' s Richard Reiss will enter the port of Erie, Pa. for the winter on December 18 while the small dredges John R. Emery, Day Peckinpaugh and J.S. St. John will be laid up at the beginning of this month. Ralph W. Biggs Jr., vice president and general manager of Litton Great Lakes, noted that his company will keep the SIUcrewed Presque Isle in service "as late into the present shipping season as practical." The vessel will moor in the port of Sturgeon Bay, Wis. The vast majority of SIU-crewed lakers have sailed without interruption throughout this season, which began in early March. Ships have been removed from service only for repairs or for hull inspection in drydock (required by federal regulations for U.S.flag lakers once every five years). Gulf Seafarers Tee Off in Texas Seafarers who keep the 57-year-old Contenderoperating like a champion include, from left, Tankerman Billy Badgley, Dec~hand Dougie Ambrose and Captain Allen Thomas Sr. Navigating and maintaining the tug Contender is an acquired skill for Seafarers who sail aboard the 57-year-old boat. However, most SIU members working aboard the Piney Point Transportation Co. tug have been with the company for at least two decades and are accomplished in the intricate details of operating the diesel electric powered tugboat. One such member is Captain Allen Thomas Sr., who joined the SIU in 1969 in the port of Norfolk, Va. While he began his inland career aboard Allied Towing tugboats, many of his 26 years with the union have been spent sailing the waterways aboard Piney Point Transportation tugs. "The Contender is very seaworthy for a boat her age," Boatman Thomas told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG. "I have personally sailed aboard the tug for more than 20 years. It takes experienced engineers and crewmembers to help keep her in excellent shape. We all know the Contender both inside and out," noted the captain. Thomas added it is sometimes hard to get parts for the Contender's engines because it is rare to find such a tugboat still in operation. According to the captain, when it was built by the U.S. Army in 1938, the Contender was the most modem of tugs. Now many of her parts are practically obsolete. 'That is why it is important to have engineers who know how to keep the engines in top form," he said. A typical day aboard the Contender takes crewmembers and their petroleum and asphalt-filled barges to ports located along the Chesapeake Bay and the banks of the Potomac River. Norfolk, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Quantico, Va. and Piney Point, Md. are common ports of call for the tugboat. "I think that staying in the bay and river helps keep the Contender in good shape," said Thomas. "We used to run coastwise, but now we stick to the Chesapeake and Potomac. There is more than enough work to keep us busy," he recalled. The Contender and sister tugs, the Triumph and M. Jeanne Dudley, push the company's seven barges to ports along the two bodies of water all year round. Thomas noted that in January and February ice is mild and succumbs easily to the tugboat's 1,000 horsepower engines. "We just keep going, only much more carefully," he said. Piney Point Transportation Company was owned by Steuart Transportation/Petroleum located in Piney Point, Md. until 1991. The three tugboats and seven barges were bought and are now owned by the Dudley family. The family maintained the Piney Point site until late 1992 when they decided to move the office to their Norfolk corporate headquarters. The tugboats still transport petroleum products for Steuart Petroleum of Piney Point. In September, Seafarers who work aboard G&H tugboats participated in the annual G&H golf tournament held in Galveston, Texas. The event allows Seafarers a time to relax and meet their fellow G&H boatmen. From the left are Quartermaster Craig Newkirk, who sails aboard the Judge; Quartermaster Bobby Sullivan, who sails aboard the Mars; Captain C.R. Branch, who sails aboard the Judge; and Quartermaste~ Larry Roth who sails aboard the Gretchen. Virginia Pilots Ratify Three-Year Agreement - Meeting to discuss the new contract for the Virginia Pilots Association are (from left, kneeling) Deckhand Patrick Standing, Operator Randy Carlson, (standing) Operator A.J. Hudgins, Operator Dean Everton, SIU Port Agent Mike Paladino, Deckhand Alesia Lozito, Deckhand Jerry Jagger and Operator Lyman Lawrence. Virginia Pilots Association operators and deckhands are sailing under a new three-year contract following their vote to ratify the pact last month. The agreement, retroactive to October 1 and negotiated by Operators Dean Everton (who served as the fleet delegate) and A.J. Hudgins, Deckhand Jerry Jagger and Norfolk Port Agent Mike Paladino, calls for increased wages and improved benefits. Seafarers working for the Lynnhaven, Va.-based company now have, through the new contract, dependent medical coverage for the first time. The pact also allows members to work toward an uncapped pension and changes the way in which sick leave is accumulated. The operators and deckhands shuttle pilots to and from vessels in the Norfolk, Va. harbor and Chesapeake Bay area. �SEAFARERS LOG DECEMBER 1995 With more than 140 years of sailing time among them, seven newly recertified bosuns advised those attending the November membership meeting in Piney Point, Md. to advance as far as the union can take them by returning to upgrade their skills at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. Calling himself "a true product of this school," Teddy Bush, a 1978 Lundeberg School graduate, urged others to "keep coming back. It is all we can do to keep up with an ever changing industry. Take my lead and go as far as you can with this union. We have to be prepared, educationally, to deal with the changes." Bush, who has returned to Piney Point numerous times since his graduation from trainee class 298, called the Lundeberg School a "top priority" for Seafarers. "Coming back to this school and upgrading constantly is vital to our industry. It is up to us to keep informed and well trained, and the only way to do that is to return to this fine facility," Bush added. Gregory White, who also joined the union in 1978 in Piney Point, noted he has taken every course offered at the school for members of the deck department. ''This union has taken me from A through Z as far as education goes. I recommend all Seafarers take advantage of the excellent learning opportunities available to us here in Piney Point," the 43year-old Maryland native stated. "The first time I came through the school's gates, I was a college student looking for a part-time job," recalled White. "Since that first time, I have.~ade it my number one priority to come .through those same gates as many times as possible," the bosun told those attending the Piney Point membership meeting. Well-Rounded Education In graduating from the highest curriculum available to Seafarers sailing in the deck department, Bush, White and five fellow bosuns completed advanced classes in firefighting, safety and emergency first aid as well as deck skill courses in wire-splicing, knot-tying and navigation. "I found the course to be a good refresher on many things I had not had formal training on in many years. It will really help me out," said Mike Carrano, who sails from the port of Jacksonville, Fla. Addressing upgraders in the audience, Carrano, who joined the union in 1978, said, "To you all out there, I say support this union in any way you can. It is all up to us to support the SIU the 9 and 20. At this meeting they were able to listen to administration and military officials as well as members of Congress call for a maritime revitalization program. Political Awareness Following graduation ceremonies, members of the bosun recertification course pose for a photo with SIU officials. They are (from left, kneeling) John Michols, SIU Assistant Vice President Contracts Tony Sacco, (second row) Teddy Bush, SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez, G. Israel Bonefont, SIU President Michael Sacco, Amado Abanieal, SIU Executive Vice President Joseph Sacco, Thomas Trehern, (back row) Gregory White and Mike Carrano. same way the union supports us by allowing us to return as much as possible to upgrade here in Piney Point." The five-week bosun recertification course also focused on training for military sealift operations such as helicopter landing and tanker underway replenishment exercises, damage control procedures, forklift handling and Hagglaud crane operation. In addition, the bosuns received advanced shiphandling classes using the Paul Hall Center's simulator, which reproduces sailing conditions in ports around the world. Following an extensive series of drills, exercises and classroom work in each area of study, the bosuns were tested on their proficiency and had to pass either a written exam or a demonstration drill, or both. "The instructors were very info rm a ti v e and presented the material they taught well," said John Mickols, 40, who graduated from the Piney Point trainee program in 1977 as a member of class 238. "I'm not done yet. I still plan to come back. This is the most up-to-date training equipment that I have ever seen," continued Michols, who resides in and sails from Jacksonville. Adding his praise for the school's instructors was G. Israel Bonefont. ''There was excellent communication between the instructors and our class. I learned much more about the union than I ever knew before," stated Bonefont, who sails from the port of New York. Thomas Trehern, 61, noted the many changes made to Piney Point since his first visit to the facility. "I was here before there was anything here. I am very impressed with the facility and the progress that has been made over the years. I will encourage all my crewmembers to come to the Paul Hall Center now that I have seen and experienced it for myself. It really is worth it for all SIU members to come and upgrade," said Trehem, who joined the union in 1951. The bosuns spent one day in Washington, D.C. to see the legislative process in action. Amado Abanieal, 53, said he appreciated being updated on the political activities of the SIU and the AFL-CIO maritime Trades Department (MID). "I really learned a lot. I learned the importance of SPAD contributions. With SPAD, we have a voice in Washington, D.C. and our brotherhood is strong-we speak with one voice," said the bosun who joined the Seafarers in 1980. In addition, the Seafarers had the opportunity to attend the 1995 biennial convention of the MTD held in New York on October 19 Air the bosuns agreed that attending the MTD convention was a bonus to their Lundeberg School education. "I was really impressed by the speakers at the MTD convention. It helped me a lot to listen to all the support that the merchant marine has," Carrano stated. When the group visited SIU headquarters, they were briefed by representatives of each department within the SIU. The bosuns discussed union organizing and contract enforcement with officials from the SIU' s collective bargaining department. They were updated on the benefits of the welfare, vacation, training and pension funds. Additionally, they were instructed by communications department representatives on how to contribute photographs and information for use in the Seafarers LOG. "We have a lot of seatime and a lot of SIU history among us," noted Bosun Bush. "We are all great friends, and I think I speak for each of us when I say that we became very close while here in Piney Point. We were great as a group. We all came in together, put our all into it and learned together. We will leave at the gates of the Paul Hall Center, but we will carry what we learned back out to sea," concluded Bush. IUpgrading Is a Family Affair for Bonefonts I When G. Israel Bonefont walked across the stage at the November membership meeting in Piney Point to accept his graduation certificate from the bosun recertification course, he became the first of five generations of Bonefonts sailing with the SIU to achieve the highest curriculum available to Seafarers in the deck department. A 1964 graduate of the Andrew Furuseth Training School in New York, Bonefont has upgraded his skills at every available opportunity in his 31year SIU career. However, Israel was not the only family member to be attending classes at Piney Point last month. Sitting in the audience as Israel gave his graduation remarks were his son Jason, who is upgrading to FOWT, and his nephew, Edwin, a member of the chief cook upgrading course. A fourth member of the family in the audience and the first woman in the Bonefont clan to become a Seafarer, was Israel's niece, Johanny Gonzales, a member of trainee class 543. "I am proud of my dad and his ambition to continue upgrading," said Jason, 25. "With all of this education available to us we should take advantage of it. I am learning a lot and I plan to keep coming back until I have gone as far as I can go. I'm going for it all," said the fifth generation Seafarer. "I am very proud of Jason and he has told me he is proud Bosuns Amado Abanieal (right) and Gregory White (middle) practice of me which makes it all worth knot-tying skills with Lundeberg School instructor Bill Hellwege. Gathered for a family portrait in front of the Harry Lundeberg bust at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. are (from left) Jason Bonefont, G. Israel Bonefont, Johanny Gonzales and Edwin Bonefont. while," said Israel. "I want him women, have passed through to continue with his SIU educa- union halls and have sailed the tion and go as far and as high as world's oceans aboard SIU-conhe possibly can-just as I have. I tracted ships since the union can't get any higher than this. My began in 1938. "We are a family of words to him are to keep on Seafarers," said Israel. "If you going and advancing as far with have been on any kind of SIU the SIU as possible," the elder ship during the last 50 or more Bonefont stated. years, chances are you have While the father and son have not sailed together, Israel either sailed with one of us or hopes that someday they will heard the family name. The SIU is in our blood," the newly recerhave the opportunity to do so. tified bosun stated. Bonefont men, and now �10 SEAFARERS LOG DECEMBER 1995 Goals Come True for '92 Scholarship Winner "Being an SIU member for the rest of my life and using all the opportunities to better myself through continuing my education" is what Bill Collins Jr., now 42, wrote in his application for a Seafarers Welfare Plan scholarship back in 1992. And so far, he has been true to his goals. Following high school graduation in Evansville, Ind., Collins joined the U.S. Navy in 1971 "to see the world" and was shipped off to Vietnam. Upon his return to the U.S. with an honorable discharge in 1973, he tried his luck in the music industry in Southern California and also in the food service industry, which he uuly enjoyed. . Started on Riverboat He joined the SIU in 1988, starting as a dishwasher aboard the Mississippi Queen. Collins continually upgraded at the Lundeberg School, and it was a steady rise up the culinary ladder-first to cook, then to porter, and eventually to chief steward on both deep sea and inland vessels. In 1992, Collins applied for-and received-one of the seven annual scholarships given by the Seafarers Welfare Plan. His aim was to attend the prestigious Culinary Institute of America (CIA) in Hyde Park, N.Y. and become an executive chef. He began the Associate in Occupational Studies program at the culinary school in 1993. Upon graduation in September of the following year, Collins returned to the Lundeberg School to work as an instructor of baking, pastry and breakfast cookery. Following his stint at the Piney Point, Md. facility, he returned to New York and continued his studies at the CIA in December 1994 to start the Bachelor of Professional Studies program-a new 17-month curriculum focusing on food service management. He expects to graduate with a bachelor's degree in April 1996. In addition to his studies, Collins is quite active in other campus activities, ineluding being president of the CIA's cultural society. "I must admit, none of this success would have been possible without the confidence, support and guidance that the Sill has given me," Collins wrote the Seafarers Welfare Plan recently. "The SIU has been very good to me, and my career has moved in a positive direction . . . and I will never forget the support the SIU has given me." While working as an instructor of baking, pastry and breakfast cookery at the Lundeberg School in 1994, Bill Collins (right) met Maryland State Senator Roy Dyson, whose jurisdiction included Piney Point. Collins has since returned to his undergraduate studies at the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, N.Y. 'Tis the Season to Apply for a Scholarship As 1995 comes to a close, and a new year is about to begin, many people begin to take a closer look at themselves, at their lives, at their dreams, at their hopes for the future. One regret some people may have is that they were not able in the past, for any number of reasons, to continue with their education. Well, in this season of hope, there is no excuse not to reach for the stars. What better way to celebrate the holiday season than by giving yourself the gift of knowledge by applying for one of seven scholarships to be awarded in 1996 by the Seafarers Welfare Plan. The deadline for receiving the complete application package is April 15, 1996, so make your •I Jllli'~~~ d-c.'!ll\lllll~ LOG·A·RHYTHM New Year's resolution now, and get the process in A Tugboatman's Christmas motion. As in past years, three of the 1996 scholarships by Harry T. Scholer are reserved for Seafarers. One of these awards is .___ _ _ _ __ for $15,000 for use at a four-year institution of Christmas on a tugboat higher learning. The other two stipends for Can be kind ofpretty, Seafarers are in the amount of $6,000 each and may be used for study at a community college or Especially when anchored vocational school. The four remaining scholarNear the lights of the city. ships are earmarked for children and spouses of Seafarers. Each of these scholarships is for $15,000 to be used at a four-year college or univerThe shoreline is twinkling, sity. The houses aglow, Eligibility requirements for Seafarers and their spouses and unmarried dependent children are Most everyone's celebrating spelled out in a booklet which contains an applicaHis birthday, I know. tion form. It is available at any SIU hall or by filling out the coupon below and returning it to the Seafarers Welfare Plan . The nights cold and clear, But the application form is just one part of the The stars shining bright, entire application package. Other items that need Makes you think how it was to be included with the form are: On that Bethlehem night. Autobiographical statement, Photograph, Certified copy of birth certificate, You step out on deck, High school transcript and certification of The wind makes you shiver, graduation or official copy of high school The moonlight reflecting equivalency scores, $ College transcript, The ice on the river. Letters of reference and SAT or ACT results. A tugboat's a workboat It will take a little time to gather all this inforThroughout the whole year, mation. While between ships or on holiday vacation, take the time to complete the application And though working we try printed below to begin the process. Some schools To find holiday cheer. are notoriously slow in handling transcript requests, so be sure to ask for the transcripts as soon as possible. Also, now is a good time to start Some boats carry big wreaths, thinking about who should be asked to write letters Others bright colored lights, of recommendation. As they steam 'cross the harbor Give yourself the gift of knowledge. 1996 could be the year dreams do come true. A most cheerful sight. :'\ ** * * mu~''\ :~~~~~~ * * r---------------------------------------, lease send me the 1996 Sill Scholarship Program booklet which contains eligibility information, Pprocedures for applying and the application form. Name ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~- Book Number~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Address~~~~~~~~~~~------~~~-----~~ City, State, Zip Code _______________________ D Self D Dependent Mail this completed form to Scholarship Program, Seafarers Welfare Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. 12195 L--------------------------------------~ The sun's coming up, Sail our barge on the tide, The wind will be blowing, We're set for the ride. I think of my family So far 12way, Isendthemmylove On this good Christmas Day. (Harry T. Scholer of Orlando, Fla. sails as an AB/tankerman on Maritrans inland tugs. He joined the SIU in 1980. Brother Scholer dedicated this poem to his wife, Lila; his son, Christian; and his daughter, Alice; as well as to the crew of the tug Honour/Ocean States.) �SEAFARERS LOG 11 The holiday greetings appearing on this page and the following three pages were written by Seafarers, pensioners, friends and family members. They are listed in alphabetical order by ,1 the name of the individual sending the message. The Seafarers LOG joins with those pearing below in extending season's greetings to all Seafarers and their families. ~,,_... '•' ,'",'' To Lito G. Acosta Thank you for making my life so wonderful for the past 13 years. Happy holidays and happy anniversary. As we promised, we will grow old together. Love you always, Minda (Luzviminda V. Acosta) To Tar and Mohamed Ahmed Happy holidays and a Happy New Year. God bless you all and good luck. I love you, my brother. Your brother, Nasser (Ahmed) To all my SIU brothers and sisters In Diego Garcia, Guam, Saipan, Hawaii and, of course, the Great Lakes Fair winds and following seas this holiday season. Mele Kalikimaka and Hau'oli Makahiki Hou. Mark E. Aiken To Sea-Land Shoregang and their families Merry Christmas, Happy New Year. Mr. and Mrs. Eddie Almodovar To Lydia and Gennifer Almodovar Merry Christmas. I love you always. Love and kisses, Daddy (Eddie Almodovar) To Jose Guzman Happy. holidays to you and your family. You are special to me. See you soon. Greg Alvarez To all LNG Seafarers My family-Sal, Lina, Antonio, Sal and Elisabetta-wish all our brothers and sisters on the LNGs the best of the holiday season and a prosperous New Year. SalAquia To Lisa and Vito Happy holidays to you. I wish you happiness always. Sal Aquia To Nick Celona, Aniello and family May you and your family have the best of the holiday season. SalAquia To Frank Adams To all brothers and sisters at sea and in To Kim May God be with you and may you have a great year. Merry Xmas and Happy New Year. Rex Bolin port Happy holidays to all and have a great '96! Dorothy Carter To all members of the Bonefont family Thank you for the many years of wonderful friendship. You're the best friend I've ever had. God bless you during these wonderful holidays. Paul (Coursey) To Sergio Castellanos Christmas greetings. G. Israel Bonefont To all Great Lakes members, port agents and LOG staff Remembering the good old days of 1962 through 1982 when shipping out of Chicago hall was plentiful! Wishing you a joyous holiday with all your loved ones. Merry Christmas! Smooth sailin' in '96! Gerry Borozan To Anna Happy holidays, happy 13th. To a good wife and my best friend. Thank you for the best years we've had and the ones ahead. Love ya, Bones (Tim Brenno) To Chuck and Josie Menard Happy holidays to my wonderful parents in Ogdensburg, New York, who have had many heartaches in life but are always there whenever I need them. I love you, Anna (Brenno) We wish you a good holiday season, even though you're not home to celebrate with us. We all love you. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Your family (the Cateils) here. Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year. Jack Chapin Kane. Hope you all have a good holiday. Willard Chuggins I wish you all the best year ever in health, wealth and happiness. Willie Cichocke To Lanette and Jeremy Hohl May all the joy and love of Christmas be yours. I wish you a Merry Christmas. Love, Danny (Brown) Merry Christmas. Steward Danny Brown To Tony McQuay and Sal To Kenny Boffa May you have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Tom Benton and family What's happening in Hawaii, brother? Don't forget where you came from. There are people here who need to hear from you. Happy holidays. Lawrence R. Brown To LUZ·E·Sons May your holidays be filled with joy and laughter. May you always know I'm thinking of you. Remember, I love you all. Lawrence R. Brown To Charlie Darley I hope you'll be home this Christmas, but whether you're home or at sea, I love you more with each year that passes. Forever yours, Dee Darley Hope our Christmas is as wonderful as our life together will be, because I love you oh so very much!!!! With much love, DanaDarval To Gomer To Capt Murphy, Joe Jenkins and Mosshle Levey Greetings to the crew of the USNS To all Seafarers To Mrs. Roderick Bright and family We wish you all the best, not only today, but all year long. Thank God for giving us the greatest gift of all: life and being together as a family. Peace unto you, and Happy New Year. Glad to be home with you, and I appreciate you all for being there for me. Love always, Rod (Bright) Iii»' To my love, Tracy Crum To Debbie, Eric, Cory and Chelsea I wish I was there or I wish you were Happy holidays to my precious husband who has given me so much throughout our long separations and lonely nights. I love you. Your wife, Anna (Brenno) E.Lee May your homes be filled with happiness and good cheer during the holidays and all through the coming year. Merry Christmas! Mr. and Mrs. Andelair Betties Sr. ToEdCateil To Tim Brenno To the crew and families of the SS Robert To all Seafarers and their families Merry Xmas, honey! And happy birthday! Can't wait to see you. School's almost over. There is something special under the tree. Don't peek! Love you, Jioia de Leon Castellanos To all employees of HLSS Happy holidays from both of us to all of you. We miss you, and you will be in our hearts during the holiday season. Merry Christmas, Motor Pool! Bob and Ruth Clinton To Vanessa, Rodd and Nita Love you all. Have a Merry Xmas. Wish I was there. Roderick J. Coleman To Bradford L Mack and Richmond C. Collins The Collins family would like to extend warm holiday wishes to the SIU family and friends. May God bless you and keep you. Love you always, Bradford Mack. In loving memory of our Dad, Richmond Charles Collins. Love, Shannon and Shareta Collins Hey babe. Merry Christmas! Elsie David To Jacquelyn Maclaurin Happy holidays. Hope all is well for you. Will always remember you from school. Bosun Billy Dean To Anne Carlson Happy belated Halloween. Please write with new address. Sandra Deeter-McBride To Mabel, Dee Dee and Jason Hoping your Christmas will be a white one. Won't be long 'til we're celebrating in Honolulu! Jioia de Leon To Georgia and Brent Merry Christmas. I hope this year brings you much deserved happiness! Love, Jioia de Leon To my family, friends and fellow Seafarers Wishing you the happiest, healthiest and most prosperous of holidays thrughout the new year and in the years to come. Merry Christmas! Karen DenneY. To Ellen L Miller To Michael Eaton Thanks very much for all the help you've given me throughout my life. I love you very much. Philena Cosby Merry Christmas, bug! I wish we could be together, but know you're always in my thoughts and, most of all, in my heart. Love you, Karen (Denney) To Eranee Luster I'm sorry I can't be there for Christmas, but I'll make it up to you when I get home with a very special surprise. I love you, Philena Cosby To all my shipmates To Adam To all the ships that call on the port of Honolulu To the most wonderful son on earth, I love you. God bless you now and always. Paul (Coursey) Happy holidays to all. May all your trips be smooth sailing. I'm still in Lake Charles, La. Jimmie Dies Mele Kalikimaka from your friends in the port of Honolulu. Neil Dietz To John Holt Schlag Merry Christmas from your son-in-law! Neil Dietz To Laurie Lee Cates This winter the heat is working great! Stop by for a visit. Happiest of holidays! Neil and Sally Dietz Happy holidays from the Betties. To all our Seafarers To Kevin M. Dougherty We wish you all Mele Kalikimaka Hau'oli Makahiki Hou and God's blessin gs. Feliciano, Shawn, Linda and Betty S. Canon Merry Xmas, Kevin. We all wish you were in Minnesota to celebrate the holidays with us. Mom, Dad, Pam and Brian (Dougherty) Greetings from Paul and Adam Coursey. �12 SEAFARERS LOG To Matt Dunn Merry Christmas, Matt! We would all love to hear from you soon. Call home. Mom, Dad, Erica, Adam and Chris (Dunn) DECEMBER 1995 To Brian Fountain Daddy is home, how can that be? We thought he would stay out at sea. We must have been good, Look at our present Daddy is what Santa sent us!! Merry Christmas to all! Love, Rachel, Justin, Cody and Emily Fountain To Dwayne Riles Happy holidays, old bean. You'll be happy to know we're making progress with the U.S. Olympics regarding ocean photo. Hang in there. Best to Kelvin. I'll write. Scott Edington To my wife, Fabla To Casey Byron Edwards I love you, and these days I'm the happiest man alive because of you. Happy holidays. Merry Xmas, son. Hope you have a beautiful time. Sorry I can't be there with you. My love and prayers are with you always. Smooth sailing to you. I'll be standing on lookout for you, sailor. Blair Greene To Carole and Marc lsenstadt Hope you have a wonderful holiday. Stay warm. Hope to see you before winter's end. All my love, Daddy (Brian lsenstadt) Henry Edwards To Ms. Ruby Warren and Mia Diamond Hope you have an excellent Xmas. Sorry I couldn't be there this year. I love you all very much. Happy New Year. Henry Edwards Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from the Fountain family. To Rachel, Justin, Cody and Emily Santa has given me the best gift of all, and that's spending the holidays with the ones I love the most in this world. Merry Christmas, kids. Love always, Dad (Brian Fountain) To Patrick D'Alessandro May the joy of the season be with you now and always. As in my heart, I will always be with you. Merry Christmas! Love, Wendy (Fearing) To Simeon "Sammy" Ureta Good health and happiness, especially during the holidays. We miss you. Love, To Jeannette Fountain Merry Christmas and a healthy New Year to the strongest woman I know. Happy New Year, babe. Love forever, Your husband (Brian Fountain) To the rrs Groton Hope Santa brings good spirits to all, and a happy and safe New Year. See ya! Brian Fountain Flaspoller family To all of my seafaring brothers and sisters To beloved brothers and sisters of the SIU, SUP, MC&S and MFOW I want to wish all of my seafaring brothers and sisters and all of our union officials a Merry Xmas and a Happy New Year. I really am enjoying my retirement. Thank you, SIU, very much. Peace and greetings this holiday season. Blessings to all brother and sister Seafarers. May you sail with bountiful joy. Much love always, Richard J. Fuller John Forbes Have a good · holiday always, and please contact me at home. Everyone is fine. Phone (313) 282-2641, or write 170 Bondie St., Wyandotte, Ml 48192. God bless, Paula and Bob (Haller) To Lee Hardman To my wonderful husband: wishing you the best Christmas and New Year's ever. And hoping we will be together for the holidays. I love you. Shari Hardman To Mrs. Athalia Hickman and family May God bless each of you in more ways than one. I'm especially happy to be home with you, because I love you all so much. You all are my favorite holiday, 365 days a year. With God in our lives, every day is Xmas. And to my son, Alton Jr., peace unto you, and I'll always wish you smooth sailings. Love always, Alton Hickman Sr. To the Hill family May God bless you all this blessed season. I miss and love you all. See ya in the spring. Enjoy your gifts. To Billy G. Hill Sr. Keep your faith and hope in the Lord and He will make your holiday be as full as you make them. We love you. Richard "Uncle Ben" Forgays To all Crowley Tugboatmen To my nephew, Jeff, and shipmates. Just a few lines to send the very best, and hope you all get home for the holidays. God bless, To mom, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. You took good care of the SIU's four best Seafarers for 20-plus years! God bless you, mother, for you're the best mom a man could ever wish for. Bill Hill Sr. To William Burke and famlly To Jeff A. Lalande To Mom Haller Just a quick hello to you guys. Good luck in 1996. Visit me in Evansville. Cousin John, call me in Florida. Thomas Gancel To all Seafarers aboard ship and retired Richard "Uncle Ben" Forgays To Vic and Kate Weber, fellow seamen and friends on the John J. Boland I wish a happy holiday to you and your families. I am retired, but wish I was back aboard ship. But after 40 years, it's time for a rest. Keep up the good work. Hope you all have a good Xmas and New Year. God bless you all. Love, "Uncle Ben" (Richard Forgays) Season's greetings from Sidney Gamer. Sidney Gamer Alice Kay, Michael, Laura and Billy Hill Jr. To all Seafarers Best wishes for a great holiday season. You are my favorite people. God bless you. Hubert "Red" House To Peter Schuetz Hi, it's me-your best buddy! Happy New Year! Ken Huddleston To Johnnie Williams and all Seafarers We wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. To Mike Jackson Wanted to wish you a very Merry Xmas, and our thoughts and prayers are with you. You won't be home for Xmas because you're out at sea, but wanted you to know we are thinking about you always. Merry Xmas, love you, Mom and Pop (Jackson) To all SIU members, officials and to the finest brotherhood of them all Back in 1942 we were small. We worked together, sailed together and grew. Holiday greetings to the finest bunch of men I ever knew! F.H. "Johnny" Johnson To Hector Guilbes Season's greetings. John G. Katsos To Donald Irvine Hi, honey. Remember that good fun we had? Merry Christmas! Holly Kear To Koon Lau My dear friend, may this holiday be filled with happiness and good health and wishing this New Year will come with a lot of blessings for you and your family and friends. I will never forget you. You are a wise man, and I look forward to seeing you again some day. Love, Veronika Kim To Connie, Jessica, Amy and Heather Even though we won't be together this Christmas, all my thoughts and love will be with all of you . Have a Merry Christmas. Love you all. Phil/Dad Kleinebreil To Capt. Dave Ling and family Hope that you and your family have a very Merry Christmas and smooth sailing through the New Year. Phil Kleinebreil Rose and Addie Hunt To the crew of the dredge Long Island To Mohamed Jobah God bless the Islamic sheik of Jerusalem! Merry Christmas! A Merry Christmas to all of you, and a very prosperous New Year! Capt. Phil Kleinebreil Jennifer Hussong To Mike and Joe Sacco, all SIU vice presidents and port agents and their families To all members I sailed with Wishing all a very Merry Xmas and a healthful, prosperous and happy New Year. The best to all. Happy holidays! William "Flattop" Koflowitch To Ken Conklin Ernie Gibbons To Billy Gigante All the best from William Burke and Richard Forgays. Merry Christmas. Happy New Year. We miss you, love you and want you home for the holidays in the future. Hugs and kisses from your family, Ivy, Kathleen and Samantha To all Seafarers and their families Happy holidays to all. God bless those who help those in need. Domingo Gordian and family To Brian lsenstadt Dear Brian, missing you and wishing you were here. Just keep sending those checks. Love, Carole (lsenstadt) To Brian lsenstadt Dear Daddy, I hope you have a wonderful time at sea. I miss you. Come home soon. Love, Marc (lsenstadt) Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to my good buddy. From your adopted son, William "Flattop" Koflowitch �DECEMBER 1995 SEAFARERS LOG 13 To our daddy, Kerry Roby Sr. Daddy, we miss you and want you to come home. We hope God gives you a very Merry Christmas and joyful New Year. Much love!! To all my old friends Holiday greetings and a healthy, safe and happy year to come. and Happy New Jean La.Corte Tommy Mac To Brett Lammers Whether you are home or away this holiday season, you are always in my heart. Merry Christmas, baby. Love you always, Lynn La.mmers To George "Trey" Owen Christmas is here and we are blue because your baby and I sure miss you. Merry Christmas! We love you, Deonna and Ivy Owen To Chris Mattair Although you're not with us, we will still be thinking about you. We'll miss you on Christmas. Merry Christmas from us all. Love ya, Your children, Kerry Jr. and Jessica (Roby) To my beautiful husband, Kerry Roby Sr. For every minute that passes, my love for you grows stronger. Stay alive in Christ and this holiday and every day will be blessed. Happy holidays, baby!! Your forever love, Mignonette (Roby) Mom, Dad and Shelley (Mattair) To all SIU members and officers Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Hi to everybody. Lee Roy La.rent To Lucien Landreville and all my friends on the H. Lee White Hope all of you have a safe and Merry Christmas and the very best of the New Year. Shirley La.tour To Kasandra "Casey" Lechel Happy holidays, honey! It's great to be around home with you over the holidays. It seems like it just gets better. Things are really coming together for us! I love you. Merry Christmas. Joel "Ole"' Lechel To Judy and Puppy Lewis and the kids Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. I miss y'all. Richard L. Lewis To officers and crew of cable ships, all friends and former shipmates Season's greetings to all of you and yours. I miss you but am happy and well in retirement. Keep up the good work. Bosun Libby To Navieras Puerto Rico officers and crew To Chris Mattair We love you. Have a wonderful Christmas. This year we get Christmas twice. Just think, you're half-way through, it won't be long now. Miss you. Theresa, Ashley and Christina (Mattair) To ex-crewmembers of the Mariposa Season's greetings. I would like to hear from anyone. Call me at (619) 363- 6041. Mac McDivitt To Jim Miller Merry Christmas. Give me a call at (619) 363-6041 if you are ever down. Mac McDivitt We want to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a happy and safe New Year. Hope to see you over the holidays. Dave Ling and family Peter and Lee Patrick To SIU members, officers and LOG staff Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all. Thanks for an excellent year. Continued prosperity and success in the coming years. Peter and Lee Patrick To QMED/Electrician Dave Patterson Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and to all aboard the Cpl. Louis). Hauge Jr. Dick and Sara Patterson Happy New Year from Mignonette and To Clifford "Scratchy" Kreft To Dick Pascoe This is wishing all of you on the American Republic a very Merry Xmas and a Happy New Year. Have a safe season. Thank you for the wonderful year and a special thanks for answering the phone. Looking forward to the new year. You're the best. Have a happy holiday season. Your pals, Danny Mc/nnes "Day Boy" To Jim Miiier, John G. Merlo Merry Xmas, Happy New Year! Edward Merchant To the Ling families Merry Christmas, Happy New Year -with health and prosperity in the coming years. To Rosario, Alicia, Chelita Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Carlos Mojica To Phil Kleinebreil and family To all SIU members Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you and your family. Hope the New Year brings you joy and good health. Merry Xmas and Happy New Year to all at the Plans offices and to Janice at the Houston hall. Kerry Roby Sr. Mike Peck and Dean Compter To Sindi Ordenes Sindi, wherever I am, home or at sea, I love and miss you. If it's a boy, Joseph is a good name. Joseph R. Perry Season's greetings to the hard-working members of the St. Louis hall. Tharik you for your great help. God bless you all. Bernard L Pogue Lester Moore I'll miss my family on Christmas and New Year's Day, but I take comfort from the knowledge of my joyous return. To all Seafarers and their families Merry Xmas to all members and office personnel and especially to all tugboat workers in Baltimore. Charlie Morris To all Seafarers and all my shipmates I wish all of you a Merry Christmas and a healthy, happy and prosperous New Year. Jimmy Moye ~~!! ~~tit« To SIU members and families Merry Xmas to you and to me too. On Christmas day I will be 93 years old. My wish is that you all live a thousand years. I love you. C. "Nick" Nickerson Mama and Daddy (Thomas & Juliette Roby) To Tony and Sal Edwin Rivera To Billy Gigante Happiness and joy are my wish for you and your family. I hope we'll both be home for Christmas this year! Thanks for being a great friend and shipmate. John Russell To my wife, Marla Moreira, and children and a joyous Happy holidays, son. You are loved and missed very much. Keep up the good work and keep God on your side. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Best wishes in the holidays, and a happy one with your families. To the St. Louis union hall Dave Ling and family Filiberto Moreira To Kerry T. Roby Sr. To Ronnie Shulman, Joe Cornwell, Carlos Dominguez To Mom, Bruce, Bob, Marylee, Beverly and Aunt Florence Mabuhay from the Philippines! And from across the sea, we both wish all of you back in Bayonne a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Bill and Vilma Rackley To Charlotte Canion We would like to wish you and your family a Merry Christmas and a great New Year from the Philippines. "Mahal Kita," I love you all. I hope we'll all be home with our families this year. Best regards to the world's best shipmates and friends. John Russell To Michael Watson Merry Christmas to a great friend who always has a smile for everyone. You will be a great chief steward. John Russell Bill and Vilma Rackley To Peter Schuetz Hi there, Mr. Handsome. Did you get your A-book yet? Well, Happy Thanksgiving!!! Nikki Riborozo To active and retired Seafarers Happy holidays to all of you . A smooth sailing into the New Year. God bless you all. Kassim "Sam" Samat To Ronald R. Rizzuto Dear Ron, may you and your shipmates have a safe and happy Christmas. Leo says to send a postcard when you can. Love, Your mom (Mary Rizzuto) To all Seafarers One of the joys of this season is remembering those who sailed throughout the war years to bring freedom to the world. Happy holidays. Arnold Santos To Tibby, Christian and Alice May your Christmas holidays be merry, cheerful and bright, and the New Year a happy and rewarding one. I love you, my little family. Merry To Becky Hedge Christmas Hi, honey, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! from Jessica Patrick Olin and Kerry To the captain, officers and crew of the Global Sentinel Roby Jr. 'Tis the season to be jolly: ho!ho!ho! Wishing everyone aboard a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Hope Santa is good to all of you! To Mrs. Jackie L. Seim Mom, thanks for always being there for me. God bless you. Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy New Year. Yoor loving son, Rob (Robert T. Seim) To all Thigpen employees, Bid. #1610 I want to wish the most wonderful holiday wishes for yourselves and your families. Merry Christmas. Love, Roxanne Olson Bobby Shadowens ______ ............................ ~~~;.;.;._;..--------.. Pop (H.T. Scholer) _, I �SEAFARERS LOG DECEMBER 1995 To WalterW. Oswald To our daddy, Kerry Roby Sr. Best of holiday wishes to you. Hope we'll see you and Sandra for Christmas. Daddy, we miss you and want you to come home. We hope God gives you a very Merry Christmas and joyful New Year. Much love!! Mom and Mike (Oswald) To all my old friends To Kathy Parent To George "Trey" Owen Holiday greetings and a healthy, safe and happy year to come. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Christmas is here and we are blue because your baby and I sure miss you. Merry Christmas! We love you, Tommy Mac Jean LaCorte Deonna and Ivy Owen To Brett Lammers Whether you are home or away this holiday season, you are always in my heart. Merry Christmas, baby. Love you always, Lynn Lammers 13 To Chris Mattair Although you're not with us, we will still be thinking about you. We'll miss you on Christmas. Merry Christmas from us all. Love ya, Your children, Kerry Jr. and.Jessica (Roby) To my beautiful husband, Kerry Roby Sr. For every minute that passes, my love for you grows stronger. Stay alive in Christ and this holiday and every day will be blessed. Happy holidays, baby!! Your forever love, Mignonette (Roby) Mom, Dad and Shelley (Mattair) To all SIU members and officers Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Hi to everybody. Lee Roy Larent To Lucien Landreville and all my friends on the H. Lee White Hope all of you have a safe and Merry Christmas and the very best of the New Year. Shirley Latour To Kasandra "Casey" Lechel Happy holidays, honey! It's great to be around home with you over the holidays. It seems like it just gets better. Things are really coming together for us! I love you . Merry Christmas. Joel "Ole"' Lechel To Chris Mattair We love you. Have a wonderful Christmas. This year we get Christmas twice. Just think, you're half-way through, it won't be long now. Miss you. Theresa, Ashley and Christina (Mattair) To ex-crewmembers of the Mariposa Season's greetings. I would like to hear from anyone. Call me at (619) 363- 6041. Mac McDivitt To Jim Miller Merry Christmas. Give me a call at (619) 3 63-6041 if you are ever down. Mac McDivitt To Judy and Puppy Lewis and the kids Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. I miss y'all. Richard L. Lewis To officers and crew of cable ships, all friends and former shipmates Season's greetings to all of you and yours. I miss you but am happy and well in retirement. Keep up the good work. Bosun Libby We want to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a happy and safe New Year. Hope to see you over the holidays. Dave Ling and family Peter and Lee Patrick To SIU members, officers and LOG staff Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all. Thanks for an excellent year. Continued prosperity and success in the coming years. Peter and Lee Patrick To QMED/Electrician Dave Patterson Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and to all aboard the Cpl. Louis J. Hauge Jr. Dick and Sara Patterson Happy New Year from Mignonette and Kerry Roby Sr. To Dick Pascoe This is wishing all of you on the American Republic a very Merry Xmas and a Happy New Year. Have a safe season. Thank you for the wonderful year and a special thanks for answering the phone. Looking forward to the new year. You're the best. Have a happy holiday season. Your pals, Danny Mcinnes "Day Boy" Mike Peck and Dean Compter To Jim Miller, John G. Merlo Merry Xmas, Happy New Year! To Rosario, Alicia, Chelita Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Carlos Mojica To Phil Kleinebreil and family To all SIU members Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you and your family. Hope the New Year brings you joy and good health. Merry Xmas and Happy New Year to all at the Plans offices and to Janice at the Houston hall. Dave Ling and family Merry Christmas, Happy New Year -with health and prosperity in the coming years. To Clifford "Scratchy" Kreft Edward Merchant To the Ling families To Navieras Puerto Rico officers and crew To Sindi Ordenes Sindi, wherever I am, home or at sea, I love and miss you. If it's a boy, Joseph is a good name. Joseph R. Perry Season's greetings to the hard-working members of the St. Louis hall. Thank you for your great help. God bless you all. Bernard L Pogue To all Seafarers and their families Merry Xmas to all members and office personnel and especially to all tugboat workers in Baltimore. Charlie Morris To all Seafarers and all my shipmates I wish all of you a Merry Christmas and a healthy, happy and prosperous New Year. Jimmy Moye Mama and Daddy (Thomas & Juliette Roby) To Tony and Sal Edwin Rivera To Biiiy Gigante Happiness and joy are my wish for you and your family. I hope we'll both be home for Christmas this year! Thanks for being a great friend and shipmate. John Russell To my wife, Maria Moreira, and children I'll miss my family on Christmas and New Year's Day, but I take comfort from the knowledge of my joyous return. and a joyous Happy holidays, son. You are loved and missed very much. Keep up the good work and keep God on your side. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Best wishes in the holidays, and a happy one with your families. To the St. Louis union hall Lester Moore Filiberto Moreira To Kerry T. Roby Sr. To Ronnie Shulman, Joe Cornwell, Carlos Dominguez To Mom, Bruce, Bob, Marylee, Beverly and Aunt Florence Mabuhay from the Philippines! And from across the sea, we both wish all of you back in Bayonne a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Bill and Vilma Rackley To Charlotte Canion We would like to wish you and your family a Merry Christmas and a great New Year from the Philippines. "Mahal Kita," I love you all. I hope we'll all be home with our families this year. Best regards to the world's best shipmates and friends. John Russell To Michael Watson Merry Christmas to a great friend who always has a smile for everyone. You will be a great chief steward. John Russell Bill and Vilma Rackley To Peter Schuetz Hi there, Mr. Handsome. Did you get your A-book yet? Well, Happy Thanksgiving!!! Nikki Riborozo To SIU members and families Merry Xmas to you and to me too . On Christmas day I will be 93 years old. My wish is that you all live a thousand years. I love you. C. "Nick" Nickerson To active and retired Seafarers Happy holidays to all of you. A smooth sailing into the New Year. God bless you all. Kassim "Sam" Samat To Ronald R. Rizzuto Dear Ron, may you and your shipmates have a safe and happy Christmas. Leo says to send a postcard when you can. Love, Your mom (Mary Rizzuto) To all Seafarers One of the joys of this season is remembering those who sailed throughout the war years to bring freedom to the world. Happy holidays. Arnold Santos To Tibby, Christian and Alice May your Christmas holidays be merry, cheerful and bright, and the New Year a happy and rewarding one. I love you, my little family. To Becky Hedge Hi, honey, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Patrick Olin To the captain, officers and crew of the Global Sentinel 'Tis the season to be jolly: ho!ho!ho! Wishing everyone aboard a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Hope Santa is good to all of you! Roxanne Olson Merry Christmas from Jessica and Kerry Roby Jr. Pop (H.T. Scholer) To Mrs. Jackie L. Seim Mom, thanks for always being there for me. God bless you. Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy New Year. Yoar loving son, Rob (Robert T. Seim) To all Thigpen employees, Bid. #1610 I want to wish the most wonderful holiday wishes for yourselves and your families. Merry Christmas. Love, Bobby Shadowens ,, �SEAFARERS LOG DECEMBER 1995 Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea OCTOBER 16 - NOVEMBER 15, 1995 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C 3 2 2 3 4 0 0 0 33 DECK DEPARTMENT 4 21 26 4 0 11 7 0 9 2 19 13 0 8 6 2 20 9 2 11 19 0 17 9 3 13 7 1 21 22 1 8 9 2 9 9 4 28 30 1 0 3 5 1 1 1 0 0 23 176 195 0 1 0 2 0 0 2 1 3 0 4 9 3 0 0 0 25 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 17 0 11 3 0 2 0 2 13 5 8 10 4 0 8 4 12 10 15 0 9 0 8 9 7 1 3 14 0 11 0 4 3 4 4 9 7 0 12 4 0 1 4 0 1 0 0 0 14 129 96 Port New York Philadelphia Baltimore Norfolk Mobile New Orleans Jacksonville San Francisco Wilmington Seattle Puerto Rico Honolulu Houston St. Louis Piney Point Algonac Totals 31 6 4 16 8 25 37 8 7 19 17 24 26 22 18 20 17 6 27 24 24 3 11 11 28 25 1 12 2 263 2 3 0 221 7 0 0 5 0 2 3 2 Port New York Philadelphia Baltimore Norfolk Mobile New Orleans Jacksonville San Francisco Wilmington Seattle Puerto Rico Honolulu Houston St. Louis Piney Point Algonac Totals 17 2 6 8 9 12 19 17 5 13 8 4 16 1 1 0 138 18 4 3 9 8 20 22 11 8 18 6 13 16 5 3 0 164 Port New York Philadelphia Baltimore Norfolk Mobile New Orleans Jacksonville San Francisco Wilmington Seattle Puerto Rico Honolulu Houston St. Louis Piney Point Algonac Totals 16 1 1 5 9 11 15 32 16 21 4 7 13 2 2 0 155 9 3 1 7 2 7 0 1 0 2 0 5 9 2 5 1 3 9 11 1 2 0 75 2 I 2 2 0 12 2 0 0 0 26 Port New York 10 Philadelphia 0 Baltimore 1 Norfolk 0 Mobile 3 New Orleans 9 Jacksonville 5 San Francisco 10 Wilmington 7 Seattle 10 Puerto Rico 3 Honolulu 3 1 Houston St. Louis 0 0 Piney Point 1 Algonac Totals 63 Totals All Departments 577 * 31 2 4 13 16 16 21 12 18 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C 3 0 3 9 0 11 12 Trip Reliefs 1 15 4 3 1 6 1 7 1 0 0 1 37 0 2 21 8 33 15 0 11 1 222 4 7 3 4 93 5 0 0 0 154 12 7 17 6 0 155 724 238 416 534 22 1 2 70 15 3 4 1 6 6 15 14 3 6 4 9 23 1 2 0 112 64 5 4 18 16 42 48 38 29 46 13 11 43 2 3 1 382 57 5 3 26 25 37 39 40 42 40 5 17 43 3 19 6 407 10 34 2 6 5 6 14 17 4 3 4 8 13 0 1 0 66 Norfolk Thursday: January 11, February 8 Jacksonville Thursday: January 11, February 8 Algonac Friday: January 12, February 9 Houston Tuesday: January 16*; Monday: February 12 •change created by Martin Luther King birthday New Orleans Tuesday: January 16, February 13 Mobile Wednesday: January 17, February 14 3 5 2 4 11 7 3 6 0 13 7 3 0 0 76 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 27 29 10 24 8 4 25 0 3 0 212 Wilmington Monday, January 22; Tuesday, February 20* 0 *change created by Presidents' Day holiday 4 4 St. Louis Friday: January 19, February 16 Honolulu Friday: January 19, February 16 17 24 11 4 Duluth Wednesday: January 17, February 14 3 8 1 205 l 0 0 47 Jersey City Wednesday: January 24, February 21 3 0 3 3 2 7 2 . Seattle Friday: January 26, February 23 San Juan Thursday: January 11, February 8 New Bedford Tuesday: January 23, February 20 Each port's meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. 30 0 3 8 21 3 2 11 11 4 15 19 53 23 28 4 11 10 20 3 8 0 235 16 1 1 1 3 12 17 10 5 2 17 16 1 6 0 138 64 1 7 19 21 33 0 3 0 5 0 3 3 3 3 3 0 16 2 0 0 0 41 20 39 34 32 13 60 3 5 17 2 20 17 14 18 9 7 81 2 0 28 11 4 0 0 0 225 379 10 5 18 11 13 6 5 29 102 152 317 921 1,161 0 1 2 4 6 Baltimore Thursday: January 11, February 8 5 2 0 92 0 12 0 0 8 1 Tuesday: January 9, February 6 Philadelphia Wednesday: January 10, February 7 20 3 2 16 12 22 22 18 15 18 25 2 411 2 1 8 Piney Point Monday: January 8, February 5 San Francisco Thursday: January 18, February 15 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 10 January & February 1996 Membership Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, Inland Waters New York STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 8 5 9 1 2 0 1 0 0 5 0 0 1 6 7 0 1 0 2 4 0 8 9 7 6 0 5 7 20 6 0 4 2 2 10 7 1 18 2 2 0 3 3 82 6 9 6 6 4 0 10 1 0 1 0 2 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 129 13 107 55 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 4 5 20 1 0 1 0 0 6 11 12 0 0 2 10 5 8 8 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 15 Personals WILLIAM BURKE Please contact your friend, Richard W. Forgays, at 170 Bondie Street, Wyandotte, MI 48192; telephone (313) 282-2641. ROBERT GORBEA Please contact Charles Martin at I Susquehanna Ave., Cooperstown, NY 13326. MICHAELANTHONYJOHNSON Please call Judy Johnson at (304) 457-0732. KENNETH L. THORPE Anyone knowing the whereabouts of Kenneth L. Thorpe, please contact Bob Woods at P.O. Box 1331, Hedgesville, WV 25427. Correction The Seafarers LOG incorrectly identified a photograph on page 12 of the November 1995 issue as being Michael Goodwin, president of the Office and Professional Employees International Union. Pictured at left is Goodwin attending the 1995 AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department convention. 1 Notice REGISTRATION REMINDER "Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. **"Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. In order to maintain your seniority, when registering at SIU halls, bring proof of 90 days seatime. This proof may be in the form of vacation pay stubs or vessel discharges. �16 SEAFARERS LOG ·Seafarers International Union Directory · · DECEMBER 1995 Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes OCTOBER 16 - NOVEMBER 15, 1995 CL-Company/Lakes L-Lakes NP-Non Priority Michael Sacco President John Fay Secretary-Treasurer *TOTAL REGISTERED AH Groups Class CL Class L Cl~ NP Josepb Sacco Executive Vice President Augustin Tellez Vice President Contracts George McCartney Vice President West Coast Roy A. "Buck" Mercer Vice President Government Services Jack Caffey Vice President Atlantic Coast Byron Kelley Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters DeanCorgey Vice President Gulf Coast HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr. Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 BALTIMORE 1216 E. Baltimore St. Baltimore, MD 21202 (410) 327-4900 DULUTH 705 Medical Arts Building Duluth, MN 55802 (218) 722-4110 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St. Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St. Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St. Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JERSEY CITY 99 Montgomery St. Jersey City, NJ 07302 (201)435-9424 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy. Mobile, AL 36605 (334)478-0916 NEW BEDFORD 48 Union St. New Bedford, MA 02740 (508) 997-5404 NEW ORLEANS 630 Jackson Ave. New Orleans, LA 70130 (504) 529-7546 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St. Norfolk, VA 23510 (804) 622-1892 PHILADELPHIA 2604S.4St. Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box75 Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac 0 11 6 0 10 3 0 2 1 0 11 17 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class CL ~ L Class NP DECK DEPARTMENT 43 0 5 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 4 0 17 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 6 0 ENTRY DEPARTMENT ••REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class CL Cu L Class NP 0 42 13 0 20 4 0 7 5 0 32 41 Totals All Departments 0 27 34 0 66 9 94 0 * ''Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. **"Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. 63 0 0 0 Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters SEPTEMBER 16 - OCTOBER 15, 1995 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals 3 0 0 6 47 4 60 4 10 7 I 0 15 12 25 3 0 11 0 14 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 TOTAL SHIPPED AU Groups Class A ClassB Class C DECK DEPARTMENT 2 0 0 2 1 2 16 0 0 32 2 2 52 4 3 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 1 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 4 0 0 7 0 0 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 0 2 0 6 8 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 15 4 0 14 0 58 2 3 17 4 26 2 0 9 0 0 0 0 0 I 11 1 4 2 1 6 0 9 0 0 30 9 l 33 47 1 2 0 0 6 0 16 4 22 Totals All Departments 81 12 59 78 34 3 10 31 *''Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. ** "Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. 73 6 0 7 0 0 0 0 6 6 4 Are You Missing Important Mail? In order to ensure that each active SIU member and pensioner receives a copy of the Seafarers LOG each month-as well as other important mail such as W-2 forms, pension and heal th insurance checks and bulletins or notices-a correct home address must be on file with the union. If you have moved recently or feel that you are not getting your union mail, please use the form on this page to update your home address. Your home address is your permanent address, and this is where all official union documents will be mailed (unless otherwise specified). If you are getting more than one copy of the LOG delivered to you, if you have changed your address, or if your name or address is misprinted or incomplete, please complete the form and send it to: Seafarers International Union Address Correction Department 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 r------------------------------------------------------------, HOME ADDRESS FORM (PLEASE PRINT) 12/95 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave. Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St. San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Government Services Division (415) 861-3400 Phone No. ( ) SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 161/2 Santurce, PR 00907 (809) 721-4033 SEATILE 2505 First Ave. Seattle, WA 98121 (206) 441-1960 ST.LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave. St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 WILMINGTON 5lON. Broad Ave. Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 Social Security No. ____ / _ _ _ / _ _ __ D Active SIU Book N o . - - - - - - - - D Pensioner D Other --~~~~-~~~~~~--~~~~~~~~-----------This will be my permanent address for all official union mailings. This address should remain in the union file unless otherwise changed by me personally. ___________________________________________________________ _J �SEAFARERS LOG DECEMBER 1995 17 The SIU Wishes Our New Pensioners The Wind to Their Backs and Harbor from Storms Each month in the Seafarers LOG, the names of SIU members who recently have become pensioners appear with a brief biographical sketch. These men and women have served the maritime industry well, and the SIU and all their union brothers and sisters thank them for jobs well done and wish them happiness and health in the days ahead. J oining the growing number of SIU pensioners this month are five Seafarers who have retired to the beach after many voyages on the world's oceans and waterways. Four of thos~ signing off sailed in the deep sea division while the remaining members navigated the inland waterways. Three of the retiring merchant mariners served in the U.S. military-two in the Navy and one in the Army. Among those joining the ranks of retirees is Royce D. Bozeman, who graduated in 1984 from the steward recertification course at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. This course offers the highest level of training for steward department members at the Lundeberg School. On this page the Seafarers LOG presents brief biographical accounts of this month's pensioners. DEEP SEA ~~~~~MIGUEL A. AGUILAR, 66,began sailing with the Seafarers in 1972 from --~~~~~theportof New Orleans. Brother Aguilar sailed in the steward department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. Born in Honduras, he became a naturalized U.S. citizen and presently resides in Louisiana. BILLY JOE BALL,65, started his ii' :, ~~Jff[~ J7 port of Houston. Sailing in the engine department, the Texas native shipped in both the deep sea and inland divisions. Brother Ball upgraded at the Lundeberg School and advanced through the ranks from oiler to chief electrician. From 1947 to 1949, he served in the U.S. Navy. Brother Ball continues to live in his native Texas. ROYCE D. BOZEMAN, 61, graduated from the Andrew Furuseth Training School in 1958 and joined the Seafarers in the port of Mobile, Ala. Brother Bozeman sailed in all three departments: steward, deck and engine. The • -- _J Alabama native upgraded at the Lundeberg School and completed the steward recertification course there in 1984. Brother Bozeman has retired to Alabama. ALBERT M. REEVES, 69,began sailing with the SIU in 1966 from the port of Houston. The Alabama native shipped in the steward department, last sailing as a chief steward. During World War II, he served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 until he retired in 1963. Brother Reeves presently resides in Texas. INLAND ALLEN SEGREST, 62, started his career with the Seafarers in 1968 in the port of New L____...lllliliL_~___, Orleans. Sailing in the steward department, Boatman Segrest shipped primarily on Delta Queen Steamboat Co. vessels. The Tennessee native served in the U.S. Anny from 1954 to 1956. Boatman Segrest still calls Tennessee home. Membership Meeting Dates Set for 1996 The year 1996 will be very important for Seafarers and their families. Business to be handled during the next 12 months ranges from contract talks and union elections to maritime legislation and national politics. Therefore, it is vital that SIU members stay up to date on what is happening within the union and the maritime industry. A good way to do that is by attending the monthly membership meetings held in SIU halls around the country. The meetings will provide Seafarers with the opportunity to discuss issues they believe to be important as the union negotiates new standard freightship and standard tanker agreements during 1996. As the talks take place, members will be advised on the latest developments in the negotiations. Also slated for 1996 are the election of officers for the SIU. The balloting will ta1ce place late in the year, but members will be made aware of the voting procedures through the membership meetings and the Seafarers LOG. Of course, maritime issues will continue to be addressed by the members of Congress. Through the monthly membership meetings, Seafarers will be kept abreast of the latest happenings on Capitol Hill and what they and their families can do to help pass measures favorable to the industry. Finally, national elections will take place on November 5, 1996. Scheduled to be on the ballot will be the U.S. presidency, onethird of the U.S. Senate and all of the U.S. House of Representatives. Voters also will determine their choices in numerous state and local races. Seafarers may ask questions and learn more about the candidates supporting maritime by attending the monthly meetings. Members are asked to clip the schedule below and post it on their ships' bulletin boards or keep it for personal reference. Also, Seafarers may refer to each issue of the Seafarers LOG which lists the dates of the next two meetings scheduled for each port. 1996 Membership Meetings Port Traditional Date January February March April May June July August Piney Point Monday after first Sunday 8 5 4 8 6 3 8 5 3* 7 4 2 New York Tuesday after first Sunday 9 6 5 9 7 4 9 6 3 8 5 3 Philadelphia Wednesday after first Sunday 10 7 6 10 8 5 10 7 4 9 6 4 Baltimore Thursday after first Sunday 11 8 7 11 9 6 11 8 5 10 7 5 Norfolk Thursday after first Sunday 11 8 7 11 9 6 11 8 5 10 7 5 Jacksonville Thursday after first Sunday 11 8 7 11 9 6 11 8 5 10 7 5 San Juan Thursday after first Sunday 11 8 7 11 9 6 11 8 5 10 7 5 Algonac Friday after first Sunday 12 9 8 12 10 7 12 9 6 11 8 6 Houston Monday after second Sunday 16* 12 11 15 13 10 15 12 9 14 12* 9 New Orleans Tuesday after second Sunday 16 13 12 16 14 11 16 13 10 15 12 10 Mobile Wednesday after second Sunday 17 14 13 17 15 12 17 14 11 16 13 11 Duluth Wednesday after second Sunday 17 14 13 17 15 12 17 14 11 16 13 11 San Francisco Thursday after second Sunday 18 15 14 18 16 13 18 15 12 17 14 12 St. Louis Friday after second Sunday 19 16 15 19 17 14 19 16 13 18 15 13 Honolulu Friday after second Sunday 19 16 15 19 17 14 19 16 13 18 15 13 Wilmington Monday after third Sunday 22 20* 18 22 20 17 22 19 16 21 18 16 New Bedford Tuesday after third Sunday 23 20 19 23 21 18 23 21* 17 22 19 17 Jersey City Wednesday after third Sunday 24 21 20 24 22 19 24 21 18 23 20 18 Seattle Friday after third Sunday 26 23 22 26 24 21 26 23 20 25 22 20 * September October November December Piney Point change created by Labor Day holiday; Houston change created by Martin Luther King's birthday and Veterans Day holidays; Wilmington change created by Presidents' Day holiday; New Bedford change created by Paul Hall's birthday holiday. - �18 SEAFARERS LOG DECEMBER 1995 Seafarers Keep American Queen in Top Form As the American Queen steams up the Mississippi, Ohio and Tennessee Rivers, the Seafarers who sail aboard the vessel combine hard work and a spirit of camaraderie to keep the world's most luxurious steamboat in peak condition. "The crew of the American Queen is what makes it great to work here. It is a lot of hard work, but it is worth it when crewmembers work as well with one another as we all do," said Bartender Sharon Geoffroy. "We are like one big happy family," Cocktail Waitress Rhonda Mayon added. With regular departures from cities such as New Orleans, St. Louis and Pittsburgh, SIU members work in the engineroom, on the decks and in the stately dining areas aboard the Delta Queen Steamboat Co.'s 418-foot steamboat. Members of the engine department keep the vessel in top form-operating boilers, monitoring oil pressure and working on generators. Cabin attendants and food-service personnel ensure that the passengers' needs are met; and deck department members keep the steamboat in excellent physical shapeworking the lines as well as performing general maintenance. The paddlewheeler is six decks high and accommodates 436 overnight passengers and 170 crewmembers-making it the largest overnight passenger vessel built in a U.S. shipyard since the 1950s. The American Queen joined her sister steamboats, the Delta Queen and Mississippi Queen, on June 2 when the U.S.flag passenger vessel was christened in New Orleans and began service later in the month. The three vessels are the only authentic overnight paddlewheel steamboats operating in the United States. - Working for Delta Queen Steamboat Co. is a family tradition for Porter Steven McCullough. His sister, uncle, motherin-law and brother-in-law also work for the New Orleans-based company. In the port of St. Louis, above, McCullough brings passengers' luggage up the gangway of the American Queen. In the Engine Room Bar, Bartender Kerri Curtin Cabin Attendant Paula explains the mural of riverboats steaming up the Hays tidies up one of the Mississippi River. steamboat's cabins. '"""~ita1 Cabin Attendant Tracy Owens keeps the hallway well-vacuumed. Creating a smoked trout platter for Utility/Galley workers Karl Brooks one group of guests is First Cook The galley is a busy place aboard the American Queen as First Cooks (from left) Aron Markham, James (left) and Raymond Gibson careKelly St. Clair. Harris, Kelly St. Clair and Phil Sunde constantly prepare special dishes for passengers. fully take a hot pan to the sink. �SEAFARERS LOG DECEMBER 1995 Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships minutes first are reviewed by the union's contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. AMERICAN MERLIN (Osprey Shipping), August 6-Chairman James Keenan, Secretary W. Wilson. Crew asked contracts department for clarification of pay rates for high pressure water blasting. Educational director reminded crewmembers to attend tanker operations course at Lundeberg School. Deck and engine delegates reported beef and disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by steward delegate. Steward delegate requested new microwave for galley. Chairman announced letter from contracts department posted in crew mess area. Letter concerns day workers in engineroom. SEA-LAND CHALLENGER (Sea-Land Service), September 17--Chairman Roy Williams, Secretary Herbert Scypes, Educational Director Angel Hernandez, Deck Delegate Francisco Caceres, Steward Delegate Pedro Rod riguez. Chairman reported payoff upon arrival in port of Long Beach, Calif. and discussed matters to be taken up with boarding patrolman. Secretary requested help in loading stores in Long Beach. Educational director advised crcwmcmbcrs signing off to attend upgrading courses at Piney Point to keep skills updated. Deck delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next port: Oakland, Calif. USNS ALGOL (Bay Ship Management), September 12Chairman Robert Walker, Secretary Calvin Hazzard, Educational Director David Claypool, Deck Delegate Clinton Resh, Steward Delegate Aristide Langlois. Chairman advised crew keep pay vouchers. Educational director stre.ssed importance of upgrading at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer reported $602 in ship' s fund and discussed purchase of new videotapes and books for crew lounge. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next port: Alexandria, Delegate A.H. Azez. Chairman announced payoff and commended crew for job well done on separating plastics from other recyclables and garbage. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked galley gang for job well done. LEADER (Kirby Tankships), October 1-Chairman Patrick Rankin, Secretary Norman Duhe, Educational Director Richard Gracey, Steward Delegate Arthur Aguinaldo. Chairman advised crewmembers who have not yet attended tanker operations course at Lundeberg School to do so. Engine delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck or steward delegates. Crew gave vote of thanks to steward department. LIBERTY SUN (Liberty Maritime), October 8--Chairman Calvin Miles, Secretary F .L. Washington Sr., Deck Delegate Anthony Douglas, Engine Delegate Chormer Jefferson, Steward Delegate Rudolf Xatruch. Chairman noted payoff in port of Portland, Ore. Secretary reminded crewmembers to clean rooms and refrigerators when leaving ship and turn in keys. He asked crew to clean shoes before entering mess halls. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman announced lounge and laundry room will be locked while ship is in port. Egypt. MAUI (Matson Navigation), October 4--Secretary Don Dwyer, Steward Delegate Nasar Alfaqih. Secretary advised crew to write members of Congress and urge them to support maritime revitalization program. He also reminded crew to apply for tanker operations course at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Secretary encouraged members to read Seafarers LOG for union and industry news. Crew extended special vote of thanks to galley gang for great barbecue. Next port: Los Angeles. GUAYAMA (NPR, Inc.), October 16-Chairman G.R. Kidd, Secretary J.P. Speller, Deck Delegate Arnold Mott, Engine Delegate Gary Doyen, Steward NUEVO SAN JUAN (NPR, Inc.), October 23-Chairman William Card, Secretary Kevin Marchand, Deck Delegate A. Machado, Steward Delegate Tribute to Brother Willis Cape Rise crewmembers paid their last respects to pensioner Earl D. Willis on October 1, 1995 as his remains were committed to the deep. Capt. C.T. Shaw conduct.ed t.he servic~ aboard the 9MI vessel. It was held on a beautiful morning m the Caribbean Sea Just off t-:to.nduras. Brother Willis died September 16, 1995 at the age of!~· He_Jomed !he SIU in 1956 in the port of Baltimore and began rece1v1ng his pension in 1988. Joseph Brooks. Chairman reminded crewmembers to separate plastic items from regular garbage. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested new movies. Steward delegate announced doors to mess halls will be locked while in port. Crew thanked galley gang for job well done. Next port: San Juan, P.R. OMI COLUMBIA (OMI), October 28--Chairman Joseph Lisenby, Secretary Julianne Abernathy, Educational Director George Lockett, Deck Delegate Richard Barnes, Engine Delegate Richard Groening, Steward Delegate Ernesto Avila. Chairman advised crew to do its best to keep vessel sailing with minimum of problems. He noted this is a good opportunity for Seafarers since this vessel is coming out of layup. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew advised of telex from headquarters concerning contract changes posted in mess hall. Next port: El Segundo, Calif. OOCL INSPIRATION (Sea-Land Service), October 29--Chairman Mark Trepp, Secretary Ekow Dof• foh, Educational Director Doug Greiner, Deck Delegate Douglas Hodges, Engine Delegate Todd Smith. Educational director discussed importance of upgrading at Piney Point, donating to SPAD and writing members of Congress to support maritime revitalization bill. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crewmembers thanked galley gang for job well done. Next port: Elizabeth, N.J. OVERSEAS ALICE (Maritime Overseas), October 10--Chairman Samuel Reed, Secretary Daniel Payne, Educational Director Alex Resendez, Deck Delegate Randall Shearer, Engine Delegate J. William Jr., Steward Delegate Randell Porter. Chairman informed crew that tanker operations course at Paul Hall Center has been extended into 1996. Educational director urged all members to upgrade at Lundeberg School. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked galley gang for good food. Next port Beaufort, N.C. OVERSEAS HARRIETTE (Maritime Overseas), October 22Chairman Jerry Borucki, Secretary D. Touchstone, Educational Director Stephen Treece, Deck Delegate Raymond Leak, Steward Delegate P.R. Mena. Chairman thanked crew for safe and pleasant voyage. Secretary announced payoff upon arrival in port of New Orleans. Educational director urged all crewmembers to attend tanker operations course at Lundeberg School. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked steward department for job well done. Crew reported OMU Jose Rodriguez was taken ashore in Cape Verde for heart problems and, two days later, passed away. Crewmembers report ship's flag being flown at half mast in memory of their friend and shipmate. "Brother Rodriguez will be missed by all. He was a true SIU brother." OVERSEAS VALDEZ (Maritime Overseas), October 22--Chairman Roberto Zepeda, Secretary Tyler Laffitte, Educational Director Earl Macom, Deck Delegate John Ellias, Engine Delegate Kenneth Biddle, Steward Delegate Juan Gonzalez. Chairman told crew ship scheduled to pay off upon arrival in next port. Educational director discussed importance of going to Paul Hall Center and taking tanker operations course. No beefs or disputed OT. Crew thanked steward department for job well done. ROBERT E. LEE (Waterman Steamship), October 16-Chairman Sherman Hudson, Secretary D.A. Brown, Educational Director Joe Burkett, Deck Delegate Michael Stein, Engine Delegate Michael S. Novak, Steward Delegate Jimmie Hill. Chairman announced payoff scheduled for port of New Orleans. Secretary urged members to donate to SPAD. Educational director stressed importance of upgrading at Paul Hall Center. Deck delegate reported crew unable to contact union without going through captain. He also disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward deiegates. Crew sought clarification for transportation needs of crewmembers paying off in Morehead City, N.C. and returning to port of Norfolk, Va. Bosun thanked all departments for great 19 man Enrique Velez, Secretary R.L. Scott Sr., Educational Director Dann Manthei, Engine Delegate G.T. Johnson, Steward Delegate Keith Riddick, Steward Delegate Gina Lightfoot. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested second washing machine and new chairs for crew mess hall. Steward reminded crewmembers of no-smoking rule in mess hall and crew lounge. SEA-LAND RELIANCE (SeaLand Service), October 5--Chairman Dennis Brown, Secretary Gene Sivley, Educational Director Steve Bigelow, Engine Delegate P. Pless Rates as Good Feeder - AB George Dean Sr. recently sailed aboard the Stephen W. Pless and snapped this photo of some of the steward department members. He notes that the galley gang aboard the Waterman vessel, headed by Chief Steward Susan Sanderson, provides excellent food and great service to the crew. From the left are Chief Cook Albert L. "Big Al" Hendricks, SA Eric V. Mose and 3rd Cook Lee F. Russell. voyage. Crew extended special thanks to galley gang for great food and excellent service. Next port: Morehead, N.C. SEA-LAND DISCOVERY (SeaLand Service), October 22--Chairman Nelson Sala, Secretary J.R. Coils, Educational Director Robert Martinez, Deck Delegate Monte Grimes, Engine Delegate Julio Reyes, Steward Delegate Camilo Camarena. Chairman commended crew for smooth voyage. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked contracts department for update on upcoming contract negotiations. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang for good food and job well done. Next port: Oakland, Calif. SEA-LAND INTEGRITY (SeaLand Service), October 29--Chairman Leon Jekot, Secretary Pedro Laboy, Educational Director Dennis Baker, Engine Delegate An· tonio Santos, Steward Delegate Stephanie Torres. Chairman reported Integrity crew sent 38 letters to members of Congress, reminding them of the importance of U.S.-flag shipping. Secretary urged members to upgrade at Piney Point. Deck and engine delegates reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by steward delegate. Crew thanked steward department for job well done. Steward thanked crewmembers for help in keeping recreation room in good order. SEA-LAND PACER (Sea-Land Service), October 22--Chairman Rafael Clemente, Secretary W. Wroten, Educational Director Raymond Macbaj, Deck Delegate George Holland, Steward Delegate Donald Irvine. Captain commended crew for professional manner displayed in responding to and containing recent fire in engineroom. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman reported ship payoff in Yokohama on November 3. Crew observed moment of silence in memory of Bosun Frank Hansen who died while ship was in the port of Pusan, Korea. SEA-LAND QUALITY (SeaLand Service), October 15-Chair- Smith, Steward Delegate Dien Short. Chairman noted payoff in port of Tacoma, Wash. and requested all crewmembers clean quarters before signing off. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked members of steward department for job well done. SEA-LAND SPIRIT (Sea-Land Service), October 15-Chairman Donald Morrison, Secretary Steve Apodaca, Educational Director David Bautista, Deck Delegate Gary Smith, Engine Delegate A. Bombita, Steward Delegate Mario Firme Jr. Chairman thanked all departments for hard work during voyage. Secretary advised crewmembers to upgrade at Lundeberg School and donate to SPAD. Educational director reminded crewmembers to attend tanker operations course at Paul Hall Center as soon as possible. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked galley gang for job well done. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. SEA-LAND TRADER (Sea-Land Service), October 17--Chairman M. Willis, Secretary Vainuu Sill, Educational Director Angelito Francisco, Deck Delegate Russell Caruthers, Engine Delegate Jorge Bonnelli, Steward Delegate Ken Clark. Chairman reported smooth sailing. Steward delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck or engine delegates. Entire crew extended special vote of thanks to galley gang for excellent food and job very well done. USNS BELLATRIX (Bay Ship Management), October 19--Chairman Joseph Sauzek, Secretary Michael Kozak, Deck Delegate Gerald Beuk, Engine Delegate Greg Jones. Chairman reported shortage of paper cups, paper towels and laundry soap. He congratulated OS Arturo Rodriguez for applying to Lundeberg School for upgrading and encouraged others to do same. No beefs or disputed OT reported. �20 DECEMBER 1995 SEAFARERS LOG Final Departures JAMES D. EVANS DEEP SEA GEORGE A. ALLEGADO Pensioner George A. Allegado, 91, passed away August 28. Brother Allegado began sailing with the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1948 from the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU' s Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District (AGLIWD). Born in the Philippine Islands, he began receiving his pension in February 1973. KAUCHAN Pensioner Kau Chan, 83, died August 28. He graduated from the Marine Cooks ~' and Stewards / (MSC) training school in 1965 in Santa Rosa, Calif. , and joined the MCS before that union merged with the SIU' s AGLIWD. Born in China, Brother Chan lived in North Carolina and retired in September 1980. JAMES F. DEWITTY ' Pensioner , James F. De·· ..., ,/ Witty, 80, passed away September 4. Brother DeWitty began his sailing career with the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1945, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother DeWitty upgraded at the MCS training school in Santa Rosa, Calif. Born in Texas, he made his home in California and began receiving his pension in July 1973. ..,... MERLE S. DUCKWORTH Merle S. Duckworth, 60, died August 25. A native of Maryland, he completed his entry level training at the Andrew Furuseth Training School in 1965 and started his career with the SIU in the port of Baltimore. Brother Duckworth sailed in the engine department and upgraded his skills at the Lundeberg School. From 1952 to 1954, he served in the U.S. Navy. HAROLD P. DUCLOUX SR. Pensioner Harold P. Ducloux Sr., 79, passed away September29. Brother Ducloux joined the Seafarers as a charter member in 1938 in the port of Mobile, Ala. He participated in a number of union organizing drives. The Alabama native sailed in the steward depar.tment and advanced from messman to chief steward. Brother Ducloux began receiving his pension in September 1973. NA THAN C. EDWARDS Pensioner Nathan C. Edwards, 83, died May 24. Born in Florida, he began sailing with the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1948 from the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Edwards resided in Alabama and retired in June 1971. James D. Evans, 43, passed away March 5. Brother Evans started his career with the SIU in 1991 in the port of Honolulu. The deck department member lived in Hawaii and sailed primarily aboard American Hawaii Cruises' vessels. JAMES E. GIBSON James E. Gibson, 43, passed away June 23. He joined the SIU in 1991 in the port of Wilmington, Calif. The Arizonanative was a member of the engine department, last sailing as a QMED. ROBERT W. GOWER Pensioner Robert W. Gower, 77, died June 1. Born in Texas, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1945, before that union merged with the SIU' s AGLIWD. Brother Gower lived in Texas and retired in April 1979. JOSEPH B. HAWKINS JR. 'v' Pensioner ;)~ Joseph B. l:; 78, Hawkins Jr., passed away September6. He began his career with the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1944, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Hawkins resided in Texas and began receiving his pension in March 1969. EUGENE V. HAYDEN Pensioner Eugene V. Hayden, 74, died September 22. Anative of Mississippi, he began sailing with the ,,,,,,,,,,;, Seafarers in 1947 from the port of New Orleans. Brother Hayden shipped in the steward department and retired in December 1985. GEORGE A. JACKSON JR. George A. Jackson Jr., 49, died August 27 . He graduated from the Andrew Furuseth Training . JJI. ·· School in 1964 and joined the Seafarers in the port of New York. Born in Louisiana, Brother Jackson sailed in both the engine and steward departments. He also upgraded in both departments at the Lundeberg School. LIONEL JACKSON Lionel Jackson, 47, died March 25 . Brother Jackson graduated from the Lunde berg School in 1968 and joined the SIU in the port of New York. The Louisiana native shipped in the en- gine department and upgraded to QMED at the Lundeberg School. IDELOACH:::7~!sioner JOHN J. KAVANAGH I Pensioner John J. Kavanagh, 79, passed away August 16. A native of Massachusetts, he began sailing with the SIU in 1947 from the port of Boston. Brother Kavanagh shipped in the steward department and was active in union organizing activities. He retired in October 1980. 1 'V, . g~~~~~h passed away May 12. Born in Texas, he began sailing with the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1950, before that union merged with the SIU' s AGLIWD. Brother O' Neil upgraded at the MCS steward training school in Santa Rosa, Calif., and retired in September 1975. He was a resident of California. ·· BEN F. PARKER RICHARD E. KEEFE Pensioner Richard E. Keefe, 70, died recently. Brother Keefe started his career with the Seafarers in 1963 in the port ofWilmington, Calif. The New Hampshire native was a 16-year veteran of the U.S. Navy prior to joining the union. Brother Keefe sailed as a member of the steward department and began receiving his pension in August 1989. LUIS MARIN SR. Luis Marin Sr., 61, passed away August 1. Brother Marin started his career with the SIU in 1965 in the port of New York. Born in Puerto Rico, he shipped as a memher of the engine department. PAULL.McBRIDE Pensioner Paul L. McBride, 82, passed away May 20. Brother McBride joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. From 1941 to 1945, he served in the U.S. military. Brother McBride was a resident of California and retired in May 1978. CHARLES MCCLEARY Pensioner Charles McCleary, 75, died April 22. Born in Maryland, he began sailing with the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1948, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother McCleary resided in Nevada and began receiving his pension in December 1970. RORY A. MCLEOD Pensioner Rory A. McLeod, 76, passed away September 25. He began his career with the Seafarers in 1962 in the port of New Orleans. Born in Minnesota, Brother McLeod sailed as a member of the deck department. He retired in May 1990. Pensioner Ben F. Parker, 87, passed away July 31. A native of Georgia, he began sailing with the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1945 from the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Parker was a resident of New York and began receiving his pension in January 1978. FRANK RODRIGUEZ Pensioner Frank Rodriguez, 62, died Augustl3 . Brother Rodriguez started his career with the Seafarers in 1964 in the port of New York. The New York native sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School where he completed the bosun recertification course in 1975 . During his union career, Brother Rodriguez participated in many union organizing drives and beefs. He lived in New York and retired in February 1990. MANUEL G. SANCHEZ Pensioner Manuel G. Sanchez, 82, died May 27. Born in Hawaii, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1939, before that union merged with the SIU' s AGLIWD. Brother Sanchez lived in California and began receiving his pension in August 1968. EDGAR D. SCHROCK Pensioner EdgarD. . Schrock, 67, passed away September 29. Brother Schrock started his career with the SIU in 1966 in the port of San Francisco. The steward department member upgraded to chief cook at the Lundeberg School. From 1946 to 1947, he served in the U.S. Army. Brother Schrock retired in October 1993. FRED MEDIN AS Pensioner Fred Medinas, 74, died September20. Anative of Hawaii, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1965 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU' s AGLIWD. Brother Medinas upgraded al the Lundeberg School and began receiving his pension in April 1986. CARLOS SY Pensioner Carlos Sy, 87, passed away September 19. He joined the Seafarers . in1955inthe port of New York. Sailing in the steward department, Brother Sy advanced from messman to chief cook. Born in the Philippine Islands, he retired in August 1980. WILLIAM SHAW Pensioner William Shaw, 83, died December 22, 1994. He started his career with the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1936, before that union merged with the SIU' s AGLIWD. Brother Shaw. was a resident of California and retired in August 1975. JOSEPH TAYLOR Pensioner Joseph Taylor, 75, died March 28. A native of Maryland, he started his career with the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1946, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Taylor was a resident of Maryland and retired in August 1974. JUAN V. Vll.LAFANE Pensioner Juan V. Villafane, 82, passed away March 20. Born in Puerto Rico, he began sailing with the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1951 , before that union merged with the SIU' s AGLIWD. Brother Villafane began receiving his pension in July 1974 and resided in Puerto Rico. HELEN V. URSIN WINETEER Pensioner Helen V. Ursin Wineteer, 82, passed away September 23. Born in West Virginia, she started her career with the Marine Cooks and Stewards, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Sister Wineteer began receiving her pension in June 1972. HARRY H.Q. WONG Pensioner Harry H.Q. Wong, 78, passed away April 10. Brother Wong joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1948, before that union merged with the SIU' s AGLIWD. He began receiving his pension in November 1970. BEN YEE Pensioner Ben Yee, 93, died July 20. Born in China, Brother Yee started his career with the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1945 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU' s AGLIWD. Brother Yee lived in Californi~ and retired in September 1967. INLAND KENNETH S. BEL YEW ....... '.,::;{\\ Kenneth S. Belyew, 34, ··:· died September4. BoatmanBelyew graduated from the entry training program in 1979 at the Lundeberg School and joined the SIU in the port of Piney Point. Md. Born in California, he shipped in the deck department. Boatman Belyew lived in California. ·'.~· HOMER J. "MOOSE" DYMOCK Homer J. "Moose" Dymock, 54, passed away July 31. Born in Ohio, Boatman Dymock graduated from the Lundeberg School's entry level program for seamen in 1974 and started his career with the SIU in the port of Piney Point, Md. Continued on page 21 �DECEMBER 1995 SEAFARERS LOG 21 Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership's money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretmytreasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member's shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively Final Departures Continuedfro page20 Boatman Dymock sailed in the deck depattment and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. He shipped primarily with Crowley Marine Services on the West Coast. From 1959 to 1963 he served in the U.S. Navy. Boatman Dymock lived in California. JOHN A. EVANS Pensioner John A. Evans, 68, died June 30. He joined the S<:afarers in 1957 in the port of Baltimore. Boatman Evans upgraded at the Lundeberg School. He most recently sailed as a captain and pilot. From 1944 to 1946, he served in the U.S. Navy. Boatman Evans began receiving his pension in August 1989. RICHARD K. FEAGUE Richard K. Feague, 39, passed away August 31 as a result of a motorcycle accident. Born in Texas, he started his career with the SIU in 1990. Boatman Feague sailed in the deck department and resided in Delaware. JULIUS D. GELPI Julius D. Gelpi,49, died July 12. A native of Louisiana, he began his career with the union in 1977 in the = = == ===.i port of New Orleans. Boatman Gelpi sailed in both the engine and deck departments. AUSTIN T. HAAS Pensioner Austin T. Haas, 67, passed away August 6. He began sailing with the Seafarers in 1967 from the port of New Orleans. Boatman Haas upgraded at the Lundeberg School. He last sailed as a captain. From 1944 to 1946, he served in the U.S. Anny Air Force. Boatman Haas retired in November 1989. by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights . Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full .copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Boanl. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY - THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individualintheunion,officerormemher. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1%0 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers WG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the exe.cutive board of the union. 1be executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money foranyreason unlessheisgivensuch receipt In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not havebeenrequiredtomakesuchpayment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. C 0 NS TIT UT I 0 NA L RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU constitution are available in all union halls. All MICHAEL J. JAGER Michael J. Jager, 50. died August 2. Boatman Jager joined the SIU in 1972 in the port of Philadelphia. = =-----' He sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. Born in Maryland, he served in the U.S. Army from 1962 to 1965. Norfolk, Va. Sailing in the engine department, Boatman Nelson upgraded at the Lundeberg School. He began receiving his pension in December 1990. LEONARD O. KENNEDY Pensioner Leonardo. Kennedy, 79, passed away September 29. A native of Alabama, he joined the Seafarers in 1971 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Boatman Kennedy saj.led in the deck department in both the inland and deep sea divisions. He served in the U.S. Army from 1942 to 1945. Boatman Kennedy retired in November 1979. JAMES A.LEE Pensioner James A. Lee, 70, died August 4. He started his career with the Seafarers in 1972 in the port of Houston. Boatman Lee upgraded at the Lundeberg School and last sailed as a captain. Born in Florida, he began receiving his pension in April 1992. NORRIS C. MANN Pensioner Norris C. Mann, 68, passed away June 18. A native of North Carolina, he joined the SIU in 1960 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Boatman Mann, an engine department member, last sailed as an engineer. From 1944 to 1946 he served in the U.S. Army. Boatman Mann resided in North Carolina and retired in December 1993. CECIL G. NELSON Pensioner Cecil G. Nelson, 73, died September 18. A native of Virginia, he became a member of the Seafarers in 1975 in the port of WILLIAM F. QUINN Pensioner William F. Quinn, 63, passed away September 18. Born in Pennsylvania, he started his career with the SIU in 1977 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Boatman Quinn sailed as a member of the steward department and retired in November 1993. From 1951 to 1955 he served in the U.S. Navy. HOMER SALTER Homer Salter, 61, passed away May7. Boatman Salter began sailing with the SlU in 1960 from the port of Mobile, '-------""'=~-_, Ala. The Alabama native last shipped in February 1974. STANLEY J. STEFANSKI Pensioner Stanley J. Stefanski, 72, died June 21. A native of Pennsylvania, he joined the Seafarers in 1963 in the port of Philadelphia. Boatman Stefanski resided in Pennsylvania and began receiving his pension in April 1985. GREAT LAKES WILLIAM K. HUGHES Pensioner William K. ' Hughes, 73 , passed away August 7 . Brother Hughes " started his career with the union iu 1964 in the port of Duluth, Minn., sailing as a member of the deck department. A World War II veteran, he served in the U.S. Navy from 1943 to 1945. Brother Hughes retired in October 1987. members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the politi~al, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boat- men and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received beca~se of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her e.conomic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNIONIf at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Au th Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. SUMMARYANNUALREPORTFOR GREAT LAKES TUG AND DREDGE PENSION PLAN This is a summary of the annual report of Great Lakes Tug and Dredge Pension Plan, EIN 13-1953878, for the year ended December 31, 1994. The annual report has been filed with the Internal Revenue Service~ as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Basic Financial Statement Benefits under the plan are provided by the trust. Plan expenses were $1,037,249. These expenses included administrative expenses of $171,221 and benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries of $866,028. A total of 572 persons were participants in or beneficiaries of the plan at the end of the plan year, although not all of these persons had yet earned the right to receive benefits. The value of the plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $17,817,324 as of December 31. 1994, compared to $18,914,665 as of January 1, 1994. During the plan year, the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $1,097,341. This decrease included unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the value of the plan's assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year or the cost of the assets acquired during the year. The plan had a total netloss of $60,092. This included employer contributions of $245,546, employee contributions of $110,725, loss of $251,780 from the sale of assets, earnings from investments of $1,018,697, unrealized depreciation in assets of $1, 187 ,368 and miscellaneous income of $4,088. Minimum Funding Standards An actuary's statement shows that enough money was contributed to the plan to keep it funded in accordance with the minimum funding standards of ERISA. Your Rights to Additional Information You have a right to receive a copy of the full annual report or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: 1. an accountant's report, 2. assets held for investment, 3. actuarial information regarding the funding of the plan and 4. transactions in excess of 5 percent of plan assets. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of Mr. Lou Delma, who is the plan administrator, at 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746; telephone (301) 899-0675. The charge to cover copying costs will be $1.50 for the full annual report, or $. l 0 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for copying these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office~ the plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746, and at the Department of Laborin Washington, D.C. or to obtain a copy from the U.S . Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to Public DisclosureRoom, N5507, Pension and Welfare Programs, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20210. - �22 SEAFARERS LOG DECEMBER 1995 Lundeberg School Graduating Classes j SEAFARERS LUNDE BERG LIFEBOAT CLASS 542 Trainee Lifeboat Class 542-Graduating from trainee lifeboat class 542 are (from left, kneeling) Steven Johnson, David Wakeman, Louis Rapisarda, Philena Cosby, (second row) Bruce Burroughs, Eric Gerstmann, Charles Chambers Ill and Bob Boyle (instructor). Able Bodied Seaman-Receiving their certificates of completion on October 5 are (from left, kneeling) Warren Smith, Tom Gilliland (instructor), Wilbert Patterson, (second row) Robert Daniels, Ray Wood and Theo Niang. Celestial Navigation-Upgrading members graduating from the celestial navigation course on October HJ are (from left, kneeling) Jake Karaczynski (instructor), Char1es Booher, Mark Blom, Gavin Octaviano, Scott Kreger, (second row) Richad Gordon, Christopher Conlin, Oliver Babajko, Donald McGraw, Scott Costello and Royce Kauffman. Upgraders LifeboatReceiving their lifeboat endorsement on October 19 are (from left) Esther Wilkes, Lambert Brown, Nathalie Norie and Troy Wood. ~ ;~~~ ., ;~~~i h, Able Bodied Seaman--Certificates of completion were awarded to the October 20 class of upgraders. They are (from left, kneeling) Eric Lund, Mariann Harris, John Dawson, Willie Pettway, Tom Gilliland (instructor), Chad Cuningham, KissinforTaylor, Salvador Abreu, (second row) Chris Edyvean, Robert Couvillon, Abdul Karim Ahmed, Eric Gogue, Oliver Bohannon, Steven Westfall, Don Stringer, (third row) Justin Cook, Cyrus Brewster, William Stringer, Spencer Kreger, Joseph Latham and Jerome V. Williams. Tankerman Operations-SIU members completing the tankerman operations course on September 1 are (from left, front row, seated) Bryan Iverson, Shawn Clark, Dale Sierra, Ervin Bronstein, Mario Romero, Mark Stewart, Inocencio Desaville, Harold Caldeira, Jake Karaczynski (instructor), (second row, kneeling) Kenneth Mclamb, Napoleon San Martin, Jeff Turkus, Paul Szalus, Joseph Carrillo, William Deloach, (third row, standing) Davon McMillan, Reginald Williams, Rafael Atehortua, Carlos M. Soto, Angelo Persica Jr., James Cunningham, Spiridon Perdikis, Ferdinand Gongora, Ralph Broadway, Clay Brown, Hilario Martinez, Melvin Layner, Davis Garoutte, (fourth row) Paul Honeycutt, Earl Macom, Patrick Rankin, James Long, James Martin, Floyd Acord, Roy Blankenship and Fortan Martinez. Tankerman Operations-On October 17, Winter, Mitchell French, Matilde Zuniga, Conrado Maranother group of Seafarers graduated from the tankerman tinez, Carlos Boiser, (second row) James Barrett, Bennie operations course. They are (from left, kneeling) Mark Hobbs, Wilfredo De Leon, William Burke, Ahmed Salim, Flores, Stanley Williams, Ann Cabasag, Terry Allen, Abdul Gharama, Kevin Wray, (third row) William BegenStanley Golden, Bob Carle (instructor), Cindy dorf, Todd Homer, Reginald Abrams, Grover Dillman, Thomas Beathard, Steven Tebbe, Jose Loureiro, Mark Lawrence, Steve Copeland, George Saltz, Joel Lechel, David West, Bob Hamil, (third row) Kirk Kolar, Harry Lively, Dan Fleehearty, Rick Burgess, John Trent and Angel Correa. �SEAFARERS LOG DECEMBER 1995 LUNDEBERG SCHOOL 1996 UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE Steward Upgrading Courses The following is the schedule for classes beginning between January and Cook and Baker, Chief Cook, · Chief Steward June 1996 at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship located at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. J\!1 prog~ams are geared to improve job skills of Seafarers and to promote the i\therican maritime industry. The next issue of the WG will carry a complete listing of all upgrading classes scheduled for 1996 as well as a brief description of each course. Please . note ~ba~:thi~ §Chedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the Able Seaman Date February26 May6 March8 May17 April29 June28 Jannary15 March25 April S June 14 Date of QMED -Any Rating January15 June17 Aprils September6 Firemao/Watertender & Oiler April 29 April29 June28 April26 April26 May17 July 12 Refrigeration Systems - Completion June7 Maintenance & Operations Deck Upgrading Courses Course Date of Completion Start Date Course " · <)'% Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course's start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. Date of Completion Start Date Engine Upgrading Courses m~tlllie industry and-in times of conflict-the nation's security. Start 23 Diesel Engine Technology March18 Marine Electrical Maintenance I March 18 Basic Electronics Refrigerated Container April22 June3 June 10 Julys Welding January29 February23 ARfil 1 . . Apt:il 12 February5 MarchlS June28 Marine Electronics Technician I · Pi11nproom Maintenance ,~· February19 March 18 ApriJ29 June24 Radar Power Plant Maintenance February23 March22 May20 May3 All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. June28 ~.· Third Mate . ·"' Inland Courses Start Date of Completion January19 February .1 6 MarchlS . .l•1!!!8ry,;,tt > May31 ''. F~6tuary S March4 March29 April 26 May24 Aprill April2? May27 June24 June21 July 19 February 12 April29 R11t:e1llllt:allon Programs February23 May1D . Course Start Date Date of Completion Bosun R.ece,rtification March4 April 5 Steward Recertification January 29 March3 ----~ --------- -·-:..;; :.. . _ ------ -------- -------- ---- --------- -- ---··-- --·----- ------· .............. ;. ____ ... -- -- ----- ...... -- --..... -..... -........ --.. --- -- .... --- ------- -- ---- .. -.. UPGRADING APPLICATION With this application, COPIES ofyour discharges must be submitted showing suffi;__ Name _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ ~ (Last) (Middle) Address _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _(First) ___________ _ __ (Street) (City) Telephone__.__ __,__ _ _ _ __ Date of Birth _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ (Area Code) Deep Sea Member D (Zip Code) (State) cient time to qualify yourselffor the course(s) requested. You also must submit a COPY of each of the following: the first page ofyour union book indicating your department and seniority, your clinic card and the front and back of your z-card as well as your Lundeberg School identification card listing the course(s) you have taken and completed The admissions office WILL NOT schedule you until all of the above are received. (Month/Day/Year) Lakes Member D COURSE BEGIN END DATE DATE Inland Waters Member D If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security # Book # _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Seniority -------------Department - - - - - - U.S. Citizen: D Yes D No Home Port - - - - - - - - - - Endorsement(s) or License(s) now h e l d - - - - - - - - - - - - - Are you a graduate of the SHLSS trainee program? DYes DNo LAST VESSEL: - - - - - - - - - - - - - Rating:----- If yes, class# - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Date O n : - - - - - - - - - - Date O f f : - - - - - - - - - - Have you attended any SHLSS upgrading courses? DYes DNo If yes, course(s) taken _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ SIGNATURE_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _DATE _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? if you present original receipts and successfu.lly complete the course. If you have NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only D Yes D No Firefighting: D Yes D No CPR: D Yes D No Primary language s p o k e n - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. RETURN COMPLETED APPLICATION TO: Lundeberg School of Seamanship, Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point. MD 20674-0075. 12195 �SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT The summary of the annual report for the Great Lakes Tug and Dredge Pension Plan may be found on page 21 in this issue of the LOG. Once a Coast Guard helicopter reaches the Guayama, the ill yachtsman is placed in the chopper's basket to be hoisted up to the craft. Assisting are (left to right) AB Angel Camacho, GUDE Mohsin A. Yafai, · Bosun Richard Kidd, AB Terry Thomas, Chief Mate William Prip, AB ~ , .. Mott Arnold and Third Mate Cart Rode. Guayama Recovers Ailing Sailor With U.S. Coast Guard cutters and helicopters out of range, the SIU-crewed Guayama speedily stepped in to assist in the rescue of a yachtsman with a medical emergency. Diverting from its route to Puerto Rico from Elizabeth, N.J. on October 31, the NPR Inc. ship sailed next to the 40-foot Spindrift sailboat, allowing the yachtsman to board the Guayama through the starboard side port at approximately 7:25 a.m. "The captain (Egon K. Stage) maneuvered the Guayama so that the pickup was very smooth," explained Tony Mohammed, the chief electrician aboard the ship. "Everyone was worried about the mast of the sailboat getting banged up on the ship because it had to come so close," added Mohammed, who supplied the photos of the rescue operation to the LOG. "But there wasn't a scratch because of the way the captain positioned the ship. He did an excellent job." To prepare for the transfer of the yachtsman, Bill Hoblitzelle, from the sailboat to the ship, and then from the ship to a Coast Guard helicopter, Bosun Richard Kidd and the deck gang made all the necessary preparations. ''The bosun knew exactly what had to be done so there were no problems," Mohammed said. After Hoblitzelle was hauled across the space between the yawl and the Guayama through the starboard side port while his son and wife handled the After an emergency communication from the U.S. Coast Guard, the Guayama diverts from its course to aid a sailor with a potential life threatening medical condition. Participating in the rescue are (top row, left to right) GUDE Mohsin A. Yafai, Chief Electrician Tony Mohammed, AB David Brown, (second row, left to right) AB Angel Camacho, Bosun Richard Kidd, AB Terry Thomas and (third row) AB Mott Arnold. sailboat, he was made welcome aboard the NPR ship. Although his medical condition prevented Hoblitzelle from eating, he was presented with a menu signed by all crewmembers as a gesture of their best wishes. Around 1:30 p.m., a Coast Guard helicopter reached the Guayama, hovered overhead and lowered a basket. Guayama deck officers and crewmembers packed Hoblitzelle in the basket, and the yachtsman was lifted to the helicopter. The Coast Guard chopper immediately transported Hoblitzelle to a hospital in Puerto Rico. Hoblitzelle, his wife and son.were participating in a sailing event known as the Caribbean 1500 Cruising Rally, which departed from Hampton, Va., heading for Tortola in the British Virgin Islands. Developing lower abdominal pains, the yachtsman communicated with Johns Hopkins University Hospital in Baltimore, Md. for advice. Medical experts there determined that Hoblitzelle's condition would become life threatening if not attended to within 24 hours. The Coast Guard was contacted, but the agency's marine equipment was not close enough to immediately reach Hoblitzelle. The Coast Guard radioed the Guayama to serve as the interim rescue party. T.E. Bernard, captain of the U.S. Greater Anti1les Section of the U.S. Coast Guard, recognized the Guayama and its crew for participating in the rescue mission. The Puerto Rico-based Coast Guard official thanked the seamen for "diverting from your transit to render assistance to a fellow mariner." Although the recovered yachtsman cannot eat due to his medical condition, Guayama crewmembers autograph a menu for him as a sign of their good wishes. Those responsible for the menu are Chief Steward J.P. Speller (top row, right), Chief Cook Abdu H. Az.ea (bottom row, right) and Messman Pedro Alicea (top row, left). Also pictured is Engine Utility Octavio Pariama (bottom row, left). � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 1990-1999 Description An account of the resource Volumes LII-LXI Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993; Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Decemeber 1995 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES MARAD HONORS CAPE RACE CREW U.S. TANKERS WILL CARRY ALASKAN OIL OVERSEAS KEY HOUSE MEMBERS SEEK SWIFT ACTION FOR U.S. MARITIME BILL ABS, PUMPMEN CAN GET TANKERMAN-ASSISTANT ENDORSEMENT BY CARRYING LETTER OR DISCHARGES SIU’S ‘BUCK’ STEPHENS DIES AT 78 USCG ASKS FOR INPUT ON EFFECT OF UPCOMING INTERNATIONAL REGS TASK FORCE FORMS TO RETAIN JONES ACT SEAFARERS MARCH IN SUPPORT OF STRIKING BOEING MACHINISTS APPEALS COURT HEARS SIU CASE AGAINST Z-CARD, LICENSE FEES RUNAWAY’S SCANT FOOD, BAD H20 PROVOKES SPEEDY ITF OPERATION SIU BOATMEN’S SKILLED CARE RESULTS IN ‘GOOD AS NEW’ 57-YEAR-OLD TUG VIRGINIA PILITS RATIFY THREE-YEAR AGREEMENT SEVEN SEAFARERS STEP UP TO TOP OF DECK DEPARTMENT UPGRADING IS A FAMILY AFFAIR FOR THE BONEFONTS SEAFARERS KEEP AMERICAN QUEEN IN TOP FORM GUAYAMA RECOVERS AILING SAILOR Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 12/01/1995 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 57, No. 12 1995 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/5fbce37fd868037b986a9adc40261c5b.pdf 5366ca756c4c3994febdc0c14bb6537a PDF Text Text Speaking Before the MTD Convention Administration, Congress and Military Officials: r • Key legislators, administration officials and military officers pledged their support in the effort to enact a new U.S. shipping program to ensure American sealift capability in times of conflict and to promote economic security. Speaking to the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department were, from the top, clockwise, Transportation Secretary Federico Pena, Vice Admiral William A. Earner, Representative Herbert H. Bateman, Maritime Administrator Albert Herberger, Representative Charles Rangel, Representative Neil Abercrombie and New York Mayor Rudolph Giuliani. Pages 11-14. �2 SEAFARERS LOG NOVEMBER 1995 President's Report Nuevo San Juan Crewmembers Fighting a New Anti-U.S.-Worker Scheme Up to now, to escape American labor laws and pay scales, U.S. businesses have located factories overseas. In the shipping industry, American operators have transferred their vessels to bargain-basement ship registries operated by cash-starved nations, thereby bypassing American taxes, safety regulations and wage rates. Traditionally, to avoid paying American scales, companies have had to transfer production offshore by some means. That is changing. A loophole in the nation's immigration laws lets American companies avoid paying American scale salaries and benefits by Michael Sacco hiring skilled professionals from around the globe and bringing them to the United States. Instead of transferring production overseas, the companies simply import their cheap labor to work in the U.S. Here's an example of what is happening: A Washington Post article recently reported that a giant insurance company based in New York laid off 250 of its computer programmers in New York, New Jersey and New Hampshire, replacing them with temporary workers from India. Of course the so-called temporary programmers from India worked for a fraction of what the 250 American computer professionals earned. The same article reports that a Chinese company has offered to provide software companies with Chinese computer programmers willing to work for $500 a r.1onth in jobs held by Americans being paid $5,000 per month. The reason U.S. companies can get away with this practice is an immigration law. On the books is a provision that allows skilled workers in specialty occupations to enter the United States under "non-jmmigrant" status. The purpose of the law is to allow scientists, engineers, programmers and others to come to the U.S. in order to lend their particular expertise to an American company. But what was supposed to be a rarely used practice to allow American businesses to hire the world's best and brightest on a temporary basis has become a scam for importing thousands of workers from countries where individuals will work for a fraction of American wages. Secretary of Labor Robert B. Reich has asked Congress to close this loophole by preventing businesses from hiring foreign professionals to replace laid-off American workers. The administration's plan deserves the support of Congress and the American public. While this loophole affects professional employees, if allowed to stand, it establishes a dangerous trend for all workers. Imagine the impact on American jobs if companies are allowed to import individuals from lesser developed countries to take on factory jobs, service work or, closer to home, transportation positions such as truckers, airline pilots, railroad engineers and boatmen. No longer will American companies have to go offshore to escape U.S. scale wages, benefits and working conditions. By importing foreign labor willing to work for wages a scrap of what Americans earn, U.S. companies could continue to enjoy the advantages of being based in the U.S., close to their markets, while reaping the benefits of paying foreign wage rates. The SIU will be working with the AFL-CIO and its Maritime Trades Department as well as many unions to try and close this immigration loophole before it spreads. The security of all American workers is at stake. Working With New AFL-CIO Officers Last month, the delegates to the AFL-CIO convention in New York City elected John J. Sweeney as the national labor federation's president, Richard Trumka as secretary-treasurer and Linda Chavez-Thompson as executive vice president. I have worked for several years with each of them on the AFLCIO Executive Council and know them all to be truly dedicated to the cause of all working men and women. All of us in the SIU look forward to working with them in their new roles. Also, we extend our best wishes to Thomas Donahue and Barbara Easterling for their hard work and commitment as they leave the president and secretary-treasurer's positions. Volume 57, Number 11 November 1995 The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 0160-2047) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District; AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone(301) 899-0675. Second-class postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998 and at additional offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Managing Editor, Daniel Duncan; Associate Editor/Production, Deborah A. Hirtes; Associate Editors, Jordan Biscardo and Corrina Christensen Gutierrez; Art, Bill Brower; Administrative Support, Jeanne Textor. Help Kids' Dreams Come True When it comes to helping children, especially children in the intensive care unit (ICU) at the Hospital Pediactrico Central in San Juan, P.R. during the holidays, SIU members have been very generous. A Seafarers LOG article last year (October 1994) reported on the many acts of kindness performed by SIU crewmembers aboard theNuevo San Juan of the Navieras NPR Inc. fleet, whose vessels are operated and managed by NPR, Inc. According to a recent letter from the ship's chief steward, K.L. Marchand, the efforts have grown and have had a real impact on the lives of some very sick children. ·How It Began NPR, Inc. had, for many years, held an annual fundraising drive to collect money for toys for children in the hospital. But in October 1993, Capt. E. Powell of the Nuevo San Juan and Santiago Carrero, terminal manager at NPR, Inc., thought about ways to increase donations. Realizing that children are in the hospital every day, they initiated a year-round program which has become "Amigos de los Ninos" (friends of the children), and has grown into a non-profit foundation that allows for tax deductible donations. Crewmembers aboard the Nuevo San Juan joined Powell's effort, each pitching in a portion of his salary (usually one hour of premium overtime per pay period) to purchase toys, clothing, medical equipment and other the campaign provisions. spread, first And to crews on other NPR, Inc. vessels and then to the shoregangs in Elizabeth, NJ. and San Juan, P.R. much," he noted. And so a Thanksgiving Day party has been planned for this year in addition to the annual Christmas party. Marchand has seen the results of this program to help sick children. "I didn't really realize how far a little help can go until I sawitwithmyowneyes,"hesaid. "Doctors and staff members from the intensive care unit at the hospital recently were invited aboard the Nuevo San Juan for lunch. I must say, [the vessel] was filled with smiling faces and gratitude to everyone," the chief steward related. Marchand said that as the Some of the "Amigos de las guests were leaving, they all came Niflos" aboard the Nuevo San by the galley and personally Juan are (above, from left) Chief thanked the steward department Steward K.L. Marchand, Chief for the delicious food, good ser- Cook B.T. McEleney and (below) vice and help given to the hospi- AB Edmundo D. Cruz. tal. "It was a great feeling to know that we can make a difference if we stop to look around to see how we can help," the chief steward said. It is hoped the campaign will grow and continue to spread to other ships in the SIU. Anyone interested in helping expand the scope of the "Amigos de los Ninos" campaign may contact Santiago Carrero at NPR, Inc. at GPO Box 71306, San Juan, PR 00936. In the New York area, one may contact Edward Powell, 253 Princeton Dr., River Edge, NJ 07661; telephone (201) 3420231. ------------------------ I Congress Ready to Rev1·e·w Bl.II Allow1·ng Alaskan 01·1 Exports Aboard U.S. Sh1·ps �NOVEMBER 1995 SEAFARERS LOG 3 Senate O.K. s Funds For U.S. Ship Bill 1 The U.S. Senate took a major step in passing a 10-year maritime revitalization program when it approved funds for the first year of the measure. By a voice vote on September 29, legislators approved an amendment offered by Senators Trent Lott (R-Miss.), Daniel Inouye (D-Hawaii) and John Breaux (D-La.) to provide $46 million within a Fiscal Year 1996 appropriations bill to be used for a U.S.-flag ship program, which is being supported by the SIU. The vote by the Senate was the first time since Photo by Bill Burke/Page One After addressing their goals of organizing more workers, newly elected maritime revitalization legislation was introduced AFL-CIO President John Sweeney, Executive VP Linda Chavez- in 1992 that money actually has been appropriated Thompson and Secretary-Treasurer Richard Trumka receive the ac- for the measure. The funds were included in an colades of delegates to the 1995 national labor federation convention. appropriations bill for the Departments of Commerce, Justice and State and the U.S. Judiciary. (Although the merchant marine and U.S. Maritime Administration fall under the purview of the Departrnent of Transportation, maritime funding comes within the commerce appropriations bill.) Sweeney Elected AFL-CIO President Sacco Re-Elected to Council John J. Sweeney became the fourth president of the AFL-CIO on October 25 when he was elected to the position during the 21st constitutional convention of the national labor federation held last month in New York City. Sweeney, president of the Service Employees International Union (SEIU), defeated Thomas Donahue with 56 percent of the more than 13 million votes cast on October 25. Donahue had served as president of the AFLCIO since Lane Kirkland retired in August. Besides Sweeney, convention delegates elected Richard Trumka as the federation's secretarytreasurer and Linda ChavezThompson to hold the newly created constitutional position of executive vice president. Delegates approved another change in the federation's constitution, increasing from 33 to 51 the number of people who will serve on the AFL-CIO executive council. SIU President Michael Sacco retained his seat on the council. (He was first elected an AFLCIO vice president in 1991.) Immediately following his election as the head of the AFLCI O, Sweeney called for unity within the labor movement in order to fight for causes important to all working Americans. "To the more than 13 million workers we represent and to the millions more who are not represented, our commitment is firm and clear. When you struggle for justice, you will not struggle alone," Sweeney told the convention. Among Sweeney's priorities as president will be organizing. During his campaign for the position, he outlined a program to spend more money on organizing and to train more people to work in the field to bring non-union shops and workers into the AFLCIO. "I'm here to tell you that the most important thing we can do starting right now, today, is to organize every working woman and man who needs a better deal and a new voice," the newly elected AFL-CIO president said. Sweeney also noted the need for state and local central labor councils to be more involved in the federation's work. He pointed out these councils serve as the AFL-CIO's grassroots workers and should be an active part of the federation's efforts. Sweeney began his labor career in the Ladies' Garment Workers Union immediately after graduating from Iona College with a degree in economics. In 1960, he became contract director for SEIU Local 32B. After rising through the local, Sweeney became its president in 1976. The following year, Local 32B merged with Local 32J to create a 70,000-member local of which Sweeney served as president. In 1980, the New York City native was elected president of the entire SEIU. The next year, he became a member of the AFLCIO executive council. Trumka, 46, defeated Barbara Easterling in balloting for the position of secretary-treasurer. Easterling, the first woman to hold the position, was named as secretary-treasurer in August when Donahue moved up to replace Kirkland. A third-generation coal miner from southwest Pennsylvania, Trumka went to work in the mines when he was 19 and was active in Local 6290 of the United Mine Workers (UMWA). Following his graduation from Penn State and earning a law degree at Villanova University, he worked on the UMWA's legal staff for four years. Trumka went back to the mines in 1978 and was elected to the union's executive board in 1981. A year later, he became the union's president, a position he held at the time of his election as AFL-CIO secretary-treasurer. Chavez-Thompson became the federation's first executive vice president after delegates to the convention approved creation of the post in the AFL-CIO' s constitution. She began her 27-year career in the labor movement as a local secretary in Texas for the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME). She worked her way through the union's ranks and was elected an AFSCME vice president in 1988. Chavez-Thompson, 50, became the AFL-CIO's first Hispanic woman vice president when she was elected to the executive council in 1993. Goes to Conference The funding bill now goes to a joint HouseSenate conference committee. A similar House appropriations bill did not include money for maritime revitalization. Under the rules of the Congress, the conference committee may accept the Senate or the House version, or it may take pieces of both and craft its own legislation. The compromise bill is then presented to both chambers for their approval before it goes to the president for his signature or veto. President Clinton has stated he is in favor of maritime revitalization; however, other measures in the multi-billion-dollar appropriations bill could cause him to veto the measure which would force Congress to create a new piece of legislation. Although the federal fiscal year of 1996 began on October 1, Congress has not completed work on all the appropriations bills. Congress approved a continuing resolution in September to operate the government through November 15 using Fiscal Year 1995 funding levels. In August, the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee _marked up S. 1139, while the House version (H.R. 1350) cleared the National Security Committee in May. Both bills call for a 10-year, $1 billion program to fund approximately 50 militarily useful U.S.-flag containerships. However, neither of these bills actually appropriated any money; they only outlined the program. Both S. 1139 and H.R. 1350 are pending consideration by their respective chambers. In order for Congress to create the maritime revitalization program, it must pass both an authorizations bill (like H.R. 1350 and S. 1139) and an appropriations bill. The legislators are working on both these measures. The Senate approved the $46 million for FY '96 following a vigorous floor debate in which legislators from both parties promoted the U.S.-flag merchant marine. After stating maritime revitalization is needed, Lott, the chairman of the Senate Surface Transportation and Merchant Marine Subcommittee, noted, "From the sea battles of the American Revolution through the Persian Gulf, our seafarers and merchant marine courageously supplied and sustained our troops in combat and conflict. "In times of national emergency or war, I want to know that we will continue the finest tradition of the U.S.-flag fleet and merchant marine-secure in the knowledge that our sealift capability is assured and confident that our troops will be supplied." Provide Jobs In announcing his support for the measure, Inouye stated maritime revitalization would provide jobs for American mariners while aiding the nation's economic and national security. "This is a bargain," he told his fellow senators. "This has bipartisan support. It is a popular program. It is an American program." Maryland's Barbara Mikulski said the maritime revitalization program follows her belief "in public/private cooperation to encourage govemBipartisan Support ment savings: "It provides a rainy day maritime infrastructure Prior to the Senate's approval of funds within the commerce appropriations bill, committees in both the for U.S. defense needs while, at the same time, HouseandSenatehadexpressedtheirbipartisansup- stimulating private sector enterprise," the port for creating a maritime revitalization program. Democrat noted. MTD Delegates Call for Passage Of Maritime Revitalization Effort The need for Congress to pass a maritime revitalization bill was the primary theme of speakers addressing the delegates to the 1995 biennial convention of the AFLCIO Maritime Trades Department (MTD) in New York on October 19 and 20. For more about the Maritime TradesDepartmentconvention, f:s~~':f,~~1 k!~~~~i~ Lida.this .....__ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ ____. America's cabotage laws, extension of veterans benefits to all World War II-era merchant mariners, promotion of a U.S.flag cruise industry and protection for America's commercial fishermen. Convention delegates also received updates from officials of various unions on the plight of striking workers at sites across America. They heard about battles for good-paying jobs, decent benefits and safe working conditions still being waged in Decatur, Ill. by the Auto Workers union against Caterpillar, by the Paperworkers union against Staley and by the Rubber Workers union against Bridgestone/Firestone. They also listeµed as representatives from the Machinists union told about the strike against Boeing, and Detroit's newspaper workers explained the situation against the Michigan city's journals. Through resolutions, the delegates called on Congress and the administration to honor the protections and hard-won benefits provided for American workers at their job sites. The call for a U.S. ship bill came from administration officials, the military and members of Congress. Among those making the case for the U.S.-flag merchant marine were U.S. Transportation Secretary Federico Pefia, Maritime Administrator Albert Herberger, House Merchant Marine Panel Chairman Herbert H. Bateman (R-Va.), New York Mayor Rudolph Giuliani, Representatives Neil Abercrombie (DHawaii) and Charles Rangel (D-N.Y.) and Vice Admiral William A. Earner, head of the U.S. Navy's logistics operations. The delegates to the two-day convention, who represented the 40 unions and 28 port councils that make up the MTD, also New York Mayor Rudolph Giuliani outlines his plans to revitalize the debated and passed resolutions city's port facilities during his address at the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades calling for the retention of Department biennial convention. �4 SEAFARERS LOG NOVEMBER 1995 New USCG Tankerman Regulations Affect ABs, Pumpmen and Inland Tankermen Boatmen with tankerman ratings and unlicensed seamen who assist in tanker cargo operations are affected by recently issued U.S. Coast Guard regulations that require new tankerman' s endorsements. After March 31, 1997, merchant mariners who renew their z-cards and who need one of the four new tankermen endorsements must show proof of satisfactorily completing a Coast Guard-approved tankerman assistant or tankerman-person in charge (PIC) course. This includes all unlicensed mariners involved in the handling, transfer and transportation of oil and other hazardous liquid cargoes aboard ships and barges. parts involved in transport and transfer of hazardous materials, tankermen who renew their zcards after March 31, 1997 must show evidence of satisfactorily completing either a Coast Guardapproved tankerman-PIC (barge) course or an approved tankerman course. Passage of the four-week tankerman course (not to be confused with the tanker operation/safety course) offered at the Paul Hall Center meets this requirement. Defines Qualifications Published in April as an interim final rule, the new regulation requiring the tankermen endorsements defines qualifications of tank:ermen and other seamen involved in cargo operations. The Key Grandfather Clause rule requires such mariners to obHowever, effective March 31, tain from a Coast Guard-approved 19%, unlicensed personnel as- testing facility one of the following sisting with tanker cargo opera- four endorsements: tankermantions (ABs and pumpmen) must PIC (barge), restricted tankerhold the new endorsement of man-PIC (barge), tankermantankerman assistant. Mariners assistant or tankerman-engineer. can secure that endorsement by Mariners will have to meet standshowing proof of having sailed at ards established by the Coast least 30 days aboard tankers in the Guard (with input from the inpast five years, between April 1, dustry) for amounts of ex1991 and March 31, 1996 (this is perience, completion of training considered a grandfather courses and physical fitness in provision). The endorsement then order to obtain such certification. would be added to the z-card, According to the regulation, which automatically would be the Coast Guard no longer will renewed. conduct tankerman exams. InBy contrast, inland mariners stead, the agency will certify currently endorsed as tankermen schools (such as the Paul Hall automatically will become Center's Harry Lundeberg tankermen-PICs as of March 31, School of Seamanship) and pos1996. Like their deep sea counter- sibly operators to give the tests. --------------------------. SIU Opposes Fees Attached To Tankerman Endorsements The SIU challenged the U.S. Coast Guard's plan to charge boatmen and seamen a fee to modify their current merchant mariner's documents with the newly-required tankerman endorsement. In a communication to the agency, the SIU asked that the Coast Guard not charge seamen and boatmen the $80 (unlicensed) and $95 (licensed) fees assigned to the new endorsement. (Since the Coast Guard instituted so-called user fees for the issuance of merchant mariner's documents and marine documents in 1993, the SIU has fought the measure in the U.S. courts. At this time, the SIU's law suit against the user fees is before the U.S. Court of Appeals.) In a letter to Coast Guard Captain George N accara, deputy chief, Office of Marine Safety/Security and Environmental Protection, Bill Eglinton, director of vocational education at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, pointed out that qualified deep sea mariners who recently renewed their z-cards and who need any of the new tankerman' s endorsements will need to use the grandfather provision to secure the endorsements and, therefore, will incur the fees involved with updating their zcard, even if they recently renewed their document. ''The grandfathering provision will allow them to receive these endorsements based solely on prior sailing knowledge and experience. However, they will be required to have these endorsements placed on their documents at a cost of $80 (unlicensed) or $95 (licensed), even if the mariner recently paid to have his document renewed! This is absolutely unfair," wrote Eglinton. "In order to alleviate this unfair financial burden, the SIU requests the Coast Guard accept one of two alternatives," Eglinton continued. "The first would have the Coast Guard consider the issuance of these newly required endorsements as part of the renewal process left over from when the mariner renewed his or her document. Retroactively, the issuance fee from that procedure would cover [the issuance of the new endorsements]. ''The second option would require the regional examination centers to provide qualified applicants with letters certifying the seafarer for the new endorsement(s) until that document expires." Additionally, the union requested that the Lundeberg School's four-week tanker operation/safety course be considered valid for obtaining any of the new ratings, either via the grandfather clause or when a mariner renews his or her z-card after March 31, 1997. At press time, the Coast Guard had not rendered a decision on these matters. In another change from the current system, the new tankerrnan tests will include practical (handson) testing, so that mariners will have to demonstrate their skills in transferring liquid cargoes. quids course, a 40-hour tankship/liquified gases course, a 40-hour tank barge/dangerous liquids course, a 40-hour tank barge/liquified gases course and a 16-hour firefighting course. The Coast Guard has proposed the following courses (a tankerman would need to take one or more, depending upon which type of vessel he or she sails): a 40-hour tankship/dangerous Ii- The rule stems from the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (OPA '90), the Port and Tanker Safety Act of 1980 and amendments to the International Convention of the Standards for Training, Certifica- tion and Watchkeeping (STCW), to which the United States is a signatory nation. Its intent is to improve safety in the handling, transfer and transport of hazardous liquid cargoes. According to the Coast Guard, the agency's Regional Examination Centers are ready to begin issuing the tank:erman assistant endorsement to those individuals presenting 30 days of seatime aboard tankers in the last five years. Next month's edition of the Seafarers LOG will provide more detailed information on the new regulations and the procedures for compliance. Delta Queen Head Denounces Attacks On U.S.-Flag Passenger Ship Laws Attacks on the U.S. Passenger Vessel Services Act of 1886 and other U.S. laws orchestrated by foreign-flag interests threaten to throttle a potentially burgeoning American-flag passenger vessel industry, the head of the U.S.-flag American Classic Voyages told members of the Washington Propeller Club last month. BY contrast, the U ·S ·-flag cruise ship business "not only can exist, but also grow and thrive undercurrentU.S.passengervessel laws," stated Philip Callan, president and CEO of the company, which operates five U.S.flag passenger vessels. U.S. Cruise Industry Can Grow American Classic Voyages is the parent company of The Delta Queen Steamboat Co. (which operates the SIU-contracted riverboats American Queen, Mississippi Queen and Delta Queen) as well as American Hawaii Cruises (which operates the Seafarers-crewed cruise ships SS Independence and SS Constitution). "We have proven that the U.S.-flag passenger vessel industry is capable of functioning and growing within existing laws," Calian stated at the luncheon, which took place on Capitol Hill. "We pay our crews U.S. wage rates, we use U.S. shipyards and we still provide our shareholders with a return on their investment. "But [proposed changes to the Passenger Vessel Services Act and other laws] would force us into an arena where the rules are so biased in favor of foreign-flag companies, we and our 2,000 employees could never survive. All we ask is an even playing field" Approximately 130 foreignflag passenger ships call on U.S. ports, many on a year-round basis. That number is expected to grow in the near future. With these formidable resources, foreign cruise lines have launched an aggressive campaign aimed at the following: • Amending U.S. laws in order to operate without restriction between U.S. ports utilizing foreign subsidy-built, untaxed floating resorts; • Allowing U.S. tax deductions for business meetings taking place on foreign-flag ships, even if the vessels never call on a U.S. port; • Limiting passenger lawsuits and eliminating current access to U.S. courts by foreign crewmembers; • Exempting foreign-flag employees (U.S. citizens or foreigners) from withholding taxes on wages earned in U.S. waters; and • Exempting foreign-flag operations from fair-hiring, accommodation laws and regulations that apply to all U.S. hoteliers and travel-service providers. With lower capital costs, cheap foreign labor in many positions and no federal corporate tax, these foreign vessels would be able to sail into any U.S. port during the peak tourist season and seriously undercut not only hotel and resort business in coastal communities, but also U.S. leisure destinations farther within the country-only to sail away at season's end. Legislation already has been introduced in the House to expand tax breaks for foreign-flag ships, and other legislation is being drafted to repeal the Passenger Vessel Services Act. Foreign Passenger Ships Get Breaks The act prohibits foreign-flag vessels from transporting passengers between U.S. ports. (The U.S. also has similar laws regarding domestic passenger travel by air, rail and road.) It was passed by Congress in 1886. Foreign-flag cruise ship operators already enjoy an exemption of sorts from the Passenger Services Act, in that the U.S. Customs Service (the agency responsible for interpreting U.S. cabotage laws) has ruled that foreign-flag cruise vessels may carry passengers on so-called "cruises to nowhere" (cruises that begin and end at the same U.S. port and do not sail to any other port). Taking advantage of this ruling, numerous foreign-flag gaming vessels are operating in the lucrative and expanding U.S. cruise-to-nowhere market. In fact, the fleet of foreign-flag cruise ships-supported by massive foreign government shipbuilding subsidies-that call on U .S. ports steadily has grown during the past 15 years. None of those vessels pay U.S. corporate or gaming taxes. With a reported investment of at least $8.5 billion for ships on order, foreign cruise lines need new itineraries and markets for their ships. The U.S. remains the prime target. Hence, the lnternational Council of Cruise Lines (ICCL)-the registered foreign agentwhichlobbiesintheUnited States for foreign cruise-ship companies-has publicly stated its objective of seeking changes to U.S. cabotage laws as well as Philip Calian, president of American Classic Voyages, says his company "has proven that the U.S.-flag passenger vessel industry is capable of growing under existing laws." expanding tax breaks to allow foreign cruise ships to host conventions. "All cruise lines with operations in the U.S. should pay U.S. taxes," said Callan. "They should be subject to :U.S. labor laws, U.S. construction laws, U.S. environmental laws, and U.S. health and safety laws. "As long as foreign-flag cruise lines aren't subject to those laws, they shouldn't be allowed to operate in U.S. waters. They don't want to play by our rules, and they haven't had to, to date." American Classic Voyages Invests in Future Callan recounted the painstaking steps taken by American Classic Voyages during the past nine years to improve their products and services while substantially increasing the number of passengers. He noted that the company has invested approximately $75 million to refurbish the Independence and soon the Constitution. Millions more were spent to upgrade the Delta Queen and Mississippi Queen. And, earlier this year, the company launched the American Queen-the world's largest riverboat,builtatanapproximatecostof $65 million. The American Queen is the first overnight cruise vessel built in the U.S. in 37 years. If the foreign-flag interests succeed in reworking U.S. laws affecting passenger ships, "we will be delivering an entire industry that we have built to foreign companies who have made no investment," said Callan. "We want our industry, we want our jobs. Please, don't legislate us from rescuing and revitalizing this industry." �SEAFARERS LOG NOVEMBER 1995 5 Seafarers Aid V.I. Hurricane Victims Thousands of UIW Members' Homes Destroyed, Face High Losses The "Brotherhood of the Sea" has sprung into action to aid victims of Hurricane Marilyn, which demolished the U.S. Virgin Islands on September 16. The deadly storm left thousands of members of the United Industrial Workers (UIW), an SIU affiliate union, with severely damaged or destroyed homes and property. (The UIW represents 4,000 government and private sector employees who reside on the islands of St. Thomas, St. Croix and St. John.) Additionally, at press time, no word had been obtained as to how the seamen who make their homes in the U.S. Virgin Islands had fared during the storm. To date, members of the SIU and the UIW-as well as their contracted companies-have col1ec te d an abundance of humanitarian aid to help the victims of Marilyn's brutality. Relief Efforts Under Way Seafarers in Philadelphia and Santurce, P.R. are conducting relief drives to secure food items, building materials and other much needed supplies for UIW members whose lives have been turned around following the hurricane. In Philadelphia, union memhers have been busy filling a container, donated by Crowley American Transport, with thousands of gallons of bottled water as well as batteries, flashlights, clothing and other relief items to ship to the Virgin Islands. San Juan Port Agent Steve Ruiz noted that Seafarers from the port of Santurce have been loading barges provided by Crowley to transport the relief supplies to St. Thomas and St. Croix, the two islands which took the brunt of the damage. A number of UIW-contracted companies from around the country also have donated food and water to union members on the devastated islands. arrived in St. Thomas to deliver equipment and supplies to aid in the cleanup of the battered island. TheSIU-crewedTransoceanic Cable Ship, the Charles E. Brown, sailed from St. Thomas on September 13 to ride out Hurricane Marilyn at sea Upon the ship's return to St. Thomas, the crew of the cable ship has been working to rebuild the telephone and communications systems on the island as well as providing water and other supplies to those affected by Marilyn. Sea-Land, Navieras NPR, Inc. and Crowley also have donated plywood, water and non-perishable foods to help aid the Caribbean island residents rebuild their homes and businesses. Companies Ship Supplies Marilyn Mangled Islands Many SIU-contracted shipping companies also have been instrumental in the relief effort. The day before Hurricane Marilyn slammed into St. Croix, the OM/ Star was discharging cargo in the island's port. The tanker was ordered out to sea to escape the storm. AB Gabriel I. Bonefont was aboard the vessel during that voyage and saw the devastation on the island upon the ship's return to St. Croix 18 hours later. "lt was incredible," said Bonefont. "You couldn't tell where the wind had stopped and the mud slides had begun. There was damage everywhere." In the weeks since Hurricane Marilyn, the OM/ Star has returned to the Virgin Islands with cases of food and water to help those who have been affected by the storm. Other SIU-contracted shipping companies that have been involved in the relief efforts includeOceanShipholdings,Inc.of Houston, which has sent 80 cases of canned food, and American Overseas of Quincy, Mass., which donated five pallets of various goods. A week after the storm hit. the SIU-crewed Maersk Constellation Hurricane Marilyn had sustained winds of more than 115 miles per hour when the most destructive part of the storm swept over St. Thomas. Marilyn also damaged property on St. Croix and St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands, as well as parts of Puerto Rico. The U.S. Virgin Islands lost power, phone service and water. St. Thomas and St. Croix have not yet had their utilities fully restored. Estimates put the damage on St. Thomas, St. Croix and St. John, including economic losses from Hurricane Marilyn, at $3.5 billion-twice the estimated loss from Hurricane Hugo (which devastated the islands in 1989). President Clinton declared the Virgin Islands a disaster area, which made that area eligible for federal emergency aid. . The U.S. Virgin Islands is home to 4,000 members of the SIU's affiliated union, the United Industrial Workers (UIW). The Septem~er 16 hurricane passed directly over St. Thomas, leaving thousands with homes that were damaged or destroyed. UIW members on that island report extensive damage that will take months to clean up. Vast Devastation Eighty-five percent of the St. Thomas Hospital, where a number of UIW members are employed, was destroyed. A 104bed U.S. Army combat hospital has been set up on the island to house patients while parts of the medical facility are rebuilt. Ten people died as a result of Hurricane Marilyn: five on St. John, three on St. Thomas and two on St. Croix. St. Thomas, home to 51,000 residents, was completely flattened by Hurricane Marilyn. Amos Peters, vice president of the UIW' s Caribbean region, said, "You have to understand. At least 90 percent of the residents of this · island have sustained major damage to their homes. Most homes are inhabitable. There are many, many more who have completely lost everything. We have been devastated." Peters noted that plywood, tarpaulins and nails are some of the most needed materials on St. Thomas. (See accompanying list on this page.) Both the St. Thomas and the St. Croix UIW halls suffered minor damage. The UIW office on St. Croix was back in operation after losing power and phone service for about one week. The St. Thomas hall, like most of the island, is still without electricity, water and phone service. Peters stated that the union hall remains open during daylight hours and is providing whatever assistance possible to UIW memhers who have been destroyed by Hurricane Marilyn. "We're in a very serious position," Peters said. ''The majority oftheislandiswithoutpowerand telephone. We're really hurting on St. Thomas." UIW Representative James Bennerson estimated that more than a dozen UIW members on St. Croix lost their homes. He reported that "people are back to work, though not under normal conditions-the majority of people are helping in the cleanup of the island." It will take months just to clear all the debris left by fallen trees and collapsed buildings on St. Thomas, said Peters. More than 80 percent of the housing and buildings on St. Thomas have been destroyed, and the economy is not expected to recover for quite some time. # At the SIU hall in Santurce, P.R., Seafarers unload relief supplies sent to the hall to aid UIW members living on the U.S. Virgin Islands who were affected by Hurricane Marilyn. From the left are Mechanic Rene Pedraza, OS Jorge Borges and QMED John Lange Virgin Islands Seeks Donations of Goods Approximately 4,000 members of the United Industrial Workers (UIW), an SIU affiliate union, live on the U.S. Virgin Islands of St. John, St. Croix and St. Thomas, which were devastated by Hurricane Marilyn in September. The following items, compiled by UIW Caribbean Vice President Amos Peters, are needed by union members whose homes were badly damaged or completely destroyed by the storm. To contribute any of the items listed below, please bring the donated goods to an SIU haJI. The union will arrange to have the items shipped to SIU and UIW members on the islands of St. Thomas, St. Croix and St. John. Urgently Needed Items Towels Insect repellant Medicine - Insulin Pots and pans Buckets Toothpaste Toilet Paper Heavy duty extension cords Plywood Nails Other Needed Items Baby food. diapers and formula Glass for window repairs Refrigerators Nonperishable food items Stoves Generators Dinin~ room sets Clothes (both children and T elev1sions adult sizes) Curtains Shoes Rugs Flashlights Tiles Batteries Cribs Lamp Oil Dressing Tables Mattresses Night Stands Linens Water Propane Stoves Lanterns/lamps Blankets Radios Soap/detergents Tarpaunns Washing machines and dryers �.------------------ ........- -- - - - -·- 6 -· -- SEAFARERS LOG NOVEMBER 1995 Barer Calls Jones Act Attacks 'Dangerous and Flawed' Totem Executive Says Cabotage Ltlw Valuable Component of U.S. Transportation Proclaiming that one of the major functions of any nation is to provide domestic job opportunities for the citizens of that nation, the head of Totem Resources Corporation blasted recent efforts to repeal the nation' s cabotage laws as "ill-conceived, dangerous and deeply flawed." Stanley H. Barer, co-chairman and CEO of Totem Resources, presented his remarks October 17 to the annual meeting of the American Association of Port Authorities. (A subsidiary firm of Totem Resources is the SIU-contracted Totem Ocean Trailer Express (TOTE), which provides roll-on/roll-off service between the U.S. Pacific Northwest and Alaska.) In his address, Barer outlined many of the positive aspects provided by the Jones Act, the 1920 law that calls for cargo transported between two domestic ports to be carried on U.S.flag , U.S.-crewed and U.S.-built vessels. Provides Jobs and Taxes He pointed out that vessels covered by the Jones Act provide jobs for more than 120,000 U.S. citizens, including 80,000 inland, Great Lakes and deep sea crewmembers, all of whom pay federal, state and local taxes. All of this would be lost if the Jones Act were removed and foreign-flag vessels with foreign crews were allowed to sail America's waterways. Also, Barer noted that the foreign companies and their crews would be exempt from "the National Labor Relations Act, federal hours of service requirements, child labor laws, Coast Guard safety regulations, the U.S. Civil Rights laws, our national laws relating to health insurance, pension and other benefits and all other state and federal legal requirements, such as OSHA, environmental regulations, etc." Wages Comparable Stanley H. Barer outlined the many positive effects of the Jones Act on the U.S. economy during the recent meeting of the American Association of Port Authorities. He is pictured above when he was the guest speaker at the Paul Hall Memorial Lecture in May. ing, communications, health care, education and, I guess, we could even fire all of our government workers and bring in low-cost people to work in our government and to man our armed forces." Source of Attacks More than 500 members of Sugar Workers Union Local No. 1., an affiliate of the SIU, returned to work last month following a month-long strike against the California and Hawaii (C&H) Sugar Company in Crockett, Calif. Union members voted 164 to 152 to end the walkout and accept a new three-year contract after management withdrew take-away demands first presented to the workers in negotiations. Louie Benavidez, the union's business agent, said all of the Sugar Workers regained their jobs after the picket line came down. "We look at the company's withdrawing its demands for a two-tier wage system and reductions on medical and pension benefits as a victory," Benavidez told the Seafarers LOG. "We are happy to be back at work." On September 8, union members rejected a contract proposal that called for a three-year wage freeze, a more than 100 percent increase in employees' insurance premium payments, elimination of retiree medical benefits, and a reduction in wages and benefits for new hires. When C&H refused to withdraw the take-aways, union members overwhelmingly voted to strike. Members of the International Longshoremen Warehousemen's Union honored the picket lines in the walkout. The previous agreement expired on May 31, but the union members worked through the summer while negotiations continued. The C&H employees work as machine operators, packers, sugar boilers and maintenance personnel. �SEAFARERS LOG NOVEMBER 1995 7 New SIU Office Opens In Port Everglades, Fla. South Florida Seafarers now have a new facility where they can go to talce care of union business. The new office, located at 1221 South Andrews Avenue in Fort Lauderdale, officially opened its doors to SIU members on October 2, when renovations were completed. Seafarers will be able to file their vacation, health and pension paperwork at the office. The facility also is set up to provide Seafarers with the their clinic cards. However, the nearest hiring hall still is located in Jacksonville, Fla. Situated approximately five miles from the old SIU office in Dania, Aa., the building was selected because of its location. Only blocks from downtown Fort Lauderdale, the office also is conveniently located just minutes from Port Everglades, the airport, rail service and other mass transit systems. ''It is in an excellent location for Seafarers," said SIU Representative ----.......,...,~"""' Ambrose Cucinotta. "There is ample parking, and the building itself is in good condition. Everyone seems to really like it." Seafarers helped get the building ready for business. They put up walls, cleaned carpets, painted and plastered. The old lettering on the front of the building had to be talcen down and the Seafarers International Union logo put in its place. Minor construction and landscaping chores also were done by SIU members. ving gfass from a s booth in the former insurance office is OMU Tom Goldsbmy. Laying down joint compound for the creation of a wall in the new facility is QMED James Broderick. OMEO E~it MUHiS in~ stalls a new vent fan.. motor in the mech.. anical room of the Port Everglades office. AB Jeff Gilbert removes the old sign from the front of the Fort Lauderdale building. After landscaping the grounds surrounding the new office, AB Mike Williams sweeps up the hedge clippings. Helping renovations are, from left, Bosun Edward Doruth, SIU Rep. Before the opening of the Ambrose Cucinotta new SIU office, AB Mark and AB Jeff Gilbert. Ramsey repairs a window. At the counter of the new SIU facility in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., SIU Representative Ambrose Cucinotta (right) helps Cook/Baker Leon Grant make travel arrangements to the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, �.....----~----~--~----~~~~- --- ~-----------------------------.......~ B SEAFARERS LOG NOVEMBER 1995 Safety Drills: Standard Fare ·Aboard SIU-Crewed Ranger W eeldy lifeboat and fire drills are held aboard the Ranger to ensure the readiness of the crew in case of an emergency. Chief Steward Neville Johnson, who took the photos accompanying this article, noted that the Ranger crewmembers also attend regularly scheduled safety meetings where they are updated on the latest regulations governing Seafarers who sail aboard tankers. At the time the below photos were taken, the OMI Corp. tanker was en route to Puerto Cabello, Venezuela with approximately 34,000 tons of soybean and sunfloweroil. After partially discharging the vegetable oil in Venezuela, the ship then sailed for Columbia and Guatemala, where the balance of the cargo was offloaded. Captain Mike Herbein, master onboard the Ranger, complimented the crew for a smooth voyage. "Crewmembers were very cooperative and got along excellently," the captain told the Seafarers LOG. Celebrating the ratification by Seafarers of a new three-year pact between the SIU and Higman Towing are negotiating team members, from left, Houston Port Agent Jim McGee, Tankerman Mark Elmore, SIU Rep. Don Anderson and Captain Chris Spivey. Not pictured is Captain Mike _M_c_N_e_e_le_y_ . _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Higman SIU Members Ratify Three-Year Pact Seafarers who navigate Higman Towing tugboats and barges along the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway have ratified a new contract that improves wages, benefits and working conditions into the year 1998. Included in the new pact is a first-time provision to provide a bonus to Seafarers based on their years of service to Higman Towing. "For each year of service the members have sailed with Higman, they will receive a yearly bonus," noted SIU Houston Port Agent Jim McGee. "While the longevity pay bonus has a threeyear service requirement. it benefits not only those members who have been with the company for 30-plus years, but also those who have recently begun their inland sailing care~rs," added McGee, who served on the union's negotiation comnuttee. "We reached a very fair and equitable contract that benefits us all. We gained a lot of things that we deserve," said Captain Chris Spivey, who also was a member of the negotiating team. Within the new agreement were significant wage increases throughout the life of the three- year agreement, outpatient care for dependents of SIU members and pension improvements. The contract-which began Fire and lifeboat drills are a regular part of shipboard life aboard the Ranger. Pictured at left during a October 1-also made vast im- recent safety drill are crewmembers (kneeling, from left) Bosun Daniel Laitinen Jr., AB Albert Ellis, provements in working condi- (standing, from left) Chief Mate Thomas Conlon, OMU Al Hickman, AB Jesus Vergar, Chief Pump-man Ray Prim, 1st Ass. Eng. Joe Mahar and AB Austin Howard. tions for the Seafarers. In calling the contract between Higman and the union "one of the finest contracts in the inland industry," SIU Executive Vice President Joseph Sacco noted that the gains made in the new agreement can be used as a "springboard for other SIU inland contracts." Negotiations between the Houston-based company and the union began in August and concluded September 29. Besides McGee and Spivey, SIU negotiators for the Higman contract included Union Representative Don Anderson, Captain Mike McNeeley and Tankerman Mark Elmore. "They were good, hard and long negotiations. In the end, we Standing on the stern of the Ranger fol- After a safety drill aboard the Ranger, Chief Steward Neville were all able to come up with a lowing a fire and lifeboat drill is SA Arnulfo Johnson (left) and Chief Cook Stephanie Smith stand on contract that benefitted Lacayo. deck for a photo before returning to the galley. everyone," concluded McGee. Seafarers crew Higman· s 18 tugboats which transport petroleum products primarily between Corpus Christi, Texas and Mobile, Ala. SPAD Posters Hit Union Halls Seafarers Maintain RRF Ships For Seafarers who work aboard the Cape Lobos and Cape Lambert, maintaining two Ready Reserve Force (RRF) vessels is Posters reminding Seafarers of the importance of the Seafarers Political Action Donation (SPAD) are being displayed in union halls around the country as well as aboard SIU-crewed ships. Admiring one of the posters hanging in the New York SIU hall are (from left) Wiper Maurice Ayuso, AB Terrence Kane and Recertified Steward Ed Haber. hard work. . The two ships, ?perated by Amsea and docked m Eagle Island, N.C., are ready to be fully crewed and sent to any area of crisis in the world at a moment's notice. This means that when the ships are on reserve status, they must be kept in excellent working condition at all times. SIU members maintain the ships' engines by keeping them greased and oiled and constantly check the electrical systems by monitoring and changing wires as needed. Most important, the Seafarers keep the ramps of the roll-on/roll-off ships working properly so that cargo can be brought on and taken off the Military Sealift Command vessels. Keeping the ramps of the Cape Lobos in excellent condition is vital to the defense of the United States. Seafarers responsible for maintaining the Ready Reserve Force vessel are, from left, Bosun Chris Lightfoot, SIU Norfolk, Va. Port Agent Mike Paladino, QMED K. Pell, UDE Frank Washington and Electrician William Ryan. SIU Norfolk, Va. Port Agent Mike Paladino meets with Seafarers who keep the Cape Lambert ready to sail at a moment's notice. From left are QMED Robert Ramsey, Paladino, Bosun Robert Woodson, QMED T. Migliara, UDE John Watkins and Electrician J. Crist. �SEAFARERS LOG NOVEMBER 1995 9 Action by Alton Belle Seafarers Sares Rirerboat Crewmembers Stave Off Runaway Barge Headed for Entertainment Area Quick action by Seafarers who sail aboard the Alton Belle II kept a runaway barge from smashing into the riverboat and its staging barge. On the morning of August 30, the runaway barge, filled with 50,000 bushels of grain, was tied up at the Con Agra loading dock, several hundred yards upstream from the Alton Belle facility, when a passing towboat's wake snapped a three-inch line and set the barge floating toward the riverboat. Barge First Spotted Captain Jerry Wendie spotted the barge shortly after 7 a.m. while the riverboat was preparing for its 7:30 a.m. cruise up the Mississippi River from Alton, m. Mate Dave Wendie was on the bridge with the captain when the barge was spotted and immediately notified security to quickly evacuate the passengers waiting aboard the riverboat' s staging barge, known as the Alton Landing. Captain Wendie next dis- patched deck department members to launch rescue boats to capture and maneuver the runaway barge away from the Alton Landing, which serves as the riverboat's entertainment and boarding complex. Chief Engineer Jack Norris started the Alton Belle II' s engines, and Captain Wendie diverted the riverboat away from the dock and out of the path of the barge. "We had to move the boat to avoid being hit," Captain Wendie said. Deckhands Cliff Jones and Don Garrett manned one rescue boat while Deckhands John Cooper and Greg Pritchett boarded the other. "While in constant communication with the bridge, we proceeded to the location of the loose barge," recalled Jones. Cooper recalled the tense situation. "The barge was headed straight for the Landing. It was incredibly scary trying to get it under control and away from the area," Cooper stated. "Our first attempt was to catch Alton Belle crewmembers who helped bring a runaway barge loaded with two million pounds of grain under control are, from left, Mate Dave Wendie, Captain Jerry Wendie, Chief Engineer Jack Norris, and Deckhands Don Garrett, Cliff Jones, John Cooper and Greg Pritchett. a line from the rescue boat to the barge and guide it away from the Belle facility," noted Jones. "However, with the arrival of the Alton Belle II' s second rescue boat and direction from the bridge, we were able to straighten Rare Pearl Harbor Call Marks SS Independence V-J Day Trip World War II veterans, guest lecturers and members of the U.S. armed forces who were in command positions at Pearl Harbor in 1941 were among the full load of passengers aboard American Hawaii Cruises' SS Independence as it sailed on a memorial cruise through Pearl Harbor in remembrance of the SOth anniversary of V-J Day (Victory over Japan)-the day the Japanese surrendered. Even Maxine Andrews of the singing Andrews Sisters (ofWWII-era fame) came aboard for part of the cruise which began September 3. The passenger ship sailed through the harbor on a slow bell as it passed the USS Arizona memorial (resting place for hundreds of crewmembers who ~e aboard the vessel when it was sunk during the December 6, 1941 surprise attack on Pearl Harbor) where 'President Bill Clinton was attending a service in remembrance of those brave men and women who were killed during that attack. The SS Independence then sailed counterclockwise around Ford Island (site of the former Hickam Army Airfield) and other points of interest from World War II before heading to Kona (on the big island of Hawaii) to continue its regular seven-day cruise of the Hawaiian Islands. Due to the solemn nature of the memorial, this OS Sean Stout climbs the mast to untangle a fouled was only the third time a civilian merchant ship has signal flag on the SS Independence before the vessel sails into Pearl Harbor. been allowed into Pearl Harbor. the loose barge with the current and push it toward the center of the river-away from the Alton Belle Landing facility," Deckhand Jones continued. A towboat arrived soon after and took the barge safely back to the Con Agra dock. 'Too Close for Comfort' "It was a scary situation but between the two rescue boats, we were able to head the barge off. Our rescue boat was only about 10 or 15 feet from the dock, trying to hold the barge back until a towboat could reach us. It was too close for comfort," Cooper recalled. "It was one of those days where you were thankful for the calm conditions of the river. If the Mississippi had been running harder or had been choppy, we would have really been in trouble," Cooper said. "It was a pretty hectic and frightening situation, but we all saw it clearly and reacted to it. It was a total group effort by everyone involved. All of our safety features were in force. That barge could have done a lot of damage. We were really very lucky," Cooper concluded. Sam Houston Crew Feted For Two Years of Safety Two years of safe operation aboard the Sam Houston were recognized by a plaque bearing the names of all officers and crew on the vessel during that time. From the left are (front row) OS Stephen Yursha, Bosun B. Riddick, Capt. Hugh McEachern, Radio Officer William Dailey, QMED Alton Hickman, OS Ahmed Madari, SB William Winters, (back row) Chief Engineer David Janes, Chief Mate Mike Mara, Waterman Vice President Erik Johnson and Capt. William Niemeyer. A special awards ceremony was held October 1, 1995 in New Orleans by Waterman Steamship Corporation aboard the Sam Houston in recognition of the outstanding achievement by the officers and crew in completing two years of service with no loss of time due to crew-related injuries. Programs were printed listing all the officers and crewmembers who have sailed on the vessel ,.__._...,~,,_..."., from August 31, 1993 to September 1, 1995; and Erik L. Johnson, vice president at Waterman, presented the crew with a wooden ........._ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _..:..__...;;;;;;..;__......;:.;~~;;:;.;;;;:;z..._..;;,_ _ _ _ - - - - - - · plaque onto which brass plates The SS Independence sails past the USS Arizona memorial in Pearl Harbor on the 50th anniversary of bearing the names of all the crewV-J Day. Being allowed into Pearl Harbor is an extremely rare honor for a civilian merchant ship. members aboard the Sam Hous- ------= ton during the two-year period had been affixed. The company also presented the crew with a celebratory cake on which was written, in icing, "Thanks for a job well done!" The Sam Houston is replicated in icing on a cake which reads, "Thanks for a job well done!" �10 SEAFARERS LOG NOVEMBER 1995 Aboard the Long Lines, Seafarers Make History For Longest Cable Lay Celebrating his birthday at sea during the cable operation is SA Miguel Hidalgo. Seafarers aboard the Long Lines recently helped create a world record for the longest cable laying operation in history when a month-long cable installation was completed between Guam and Hawaii. SIU members aboard the Transoceanic Cable Ship Co. vessel prepared for the operation for six weeks by loading cable while docked in Hitachi, Japan. The vessel sailed for Guam. From there, the Long Lines began the operation-which took approximately 30 days-to place the 6,580 kilometers of fiber-optic cable along the floor of the Pacific Ocean to Hawaii. Robert Wells, an AT&T engineer in charge of overseeing the operation of deep water installations, stated, "The essence of the Guam-Hawaii project is that it was the longest cable lay operation done by anyone, anywhere--ever." As the largest ship in the Transoceanic Cable Ship fleet of five cable-laying vessels, the Long Lines was chosen to install the fiber-optic cable between Guam and Hawaii because of the ship's capacity to carry the large amount of cable needed to complete the operation. The Long Lines holds the world record for total cable miles installed as well as for cable miles installed in a single year. While loading the cable in Hitachi, SIU members enjoyed cookouts with the Japanese workers who assisted in the massive loading operation. Steward department members, led by Chief Steward Thomas Wybo, prepared hamburgers, hot dogs and chicken while the Japanese workers shared their various stir-fry recipes with the Long Lines crew. "Because the Long lines has operated in the AT&T cable ship fleet longer than any other vessel, it is still affectionately referred to as 'The Queen of the Aeet.' The Long Lines, which is based in Honolulu, is an impeccably kept ship, and that is a credit to the crew," Wells told the Seafarers LOG. Seafarers have crewed Transoceanic vessels since the early 1960s. The company operates a total of five cable ships: The Long Lines, Charles L. Brown, Global Sentinel, Global Link and Global Mariner. Members of the Long Lines' steward department prepared special foods for crewmembers and Japanese workers while the ship took on cable in Hitachi, Japan. l: Long Lines' Oiler Joe Perry enjoys the cookout in Hitachi, Japan with fellow crewmembers Chief Purser Bruce Steinle (left) and Second Assistant Engineer Andy Ackerman (right). !, (middle) tfl Cable AB Lee Hardman (left) and Steward Storekeeper Shari Smithson take a quick break from work loading cable aboard the ship in Hitachi, Japan. Smithson provided the photos on this page. �NOVEMBER 1995 SEAFARERS LOG 11 Delegates Hear Officials Announce Their Support for U.S. Ship Bill Whether the words came from officials of the Clinton administration, members of Congress, the logistics chief for the U.S. Navy or the mayor of New York, the message delivered to the delegates of the 1995 AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department (MTD) convention was the same: America needs its merchant fleet. The speakers at the two-day meeting held in New York City all provided words of support to back up resolutions passed by the delegates, who came from the MTD's 40 member unions and 28 port councils. Working for Enactment While those attending the convention called on Congress to pass legislation enacting a 10-year, $1 billion maritime revitalization program, the chairman of the House Merchant Marine Oversight Panel said he is doing everything he can to pass the measure. "I can assure you we will fight to get as much for the survival of the American merchant marine as possible," Representative Herbert H. Bateman (R-Va.) announced to the delegates. Herberger, who was a member of the operating the program during Fiscal Year 1996 in its commerce appropriations bill. Masters, Mates and Pilots before joining (That bill now is before a House-Senate - - - - - - - - - - - - - - conference committee. Both the authorizaMaritime Administrator tion and appropriations bills have to pass Albert Herberger: Congress for the program to become reality.) 'The centerpiece Bateman said he was assured by the of [our transleadership of the House that H.R. 1350 portation system] "will come to the floor this session. So, we has been the are no longer talking about if; we are talkmerchant marine.' ing about when." Bipartisan Support stating that he would work with . Bateman to get Democratic support · for N the . measure was R epresentattve et 1 Abercrombie (D-Hawaii), who urged those listening to continue fighting for the legislation. the U.S. Navy and retiring as an admiral, said the merchant fleet is an important part of America's transportation needs. "We have the times t transportau· on syst · th Id" h tat d "It· tti em m e wor • es e · . is ge ng better day by day. The cen~erp~.ece of that has been the merchant manne. Needed by Military administration's support for the merchant marine is not limited to passing maritime revitalization. "There's something else that the president and I strongly support and that is the Jones Act," Pena proclaimed. (The Jones Act is a 1920 law that states any cargo moved between two American ports must be carried aboard a U.S.crewed, U.S.-flag and U.S.-built vessel. There have been some efforts recently to try to get Congress to look into repealing the nation's cabotage law.) "Here we have a law that provides jobs for Americans, protects the environment, insures our national security, does it at no expense to the taxpayers without a dime of subsidies from Washington. So why should anyone want to repeal it?" the secretary remarked. The delegates, through several resolutions, urged fellow trade unionists to support the Jones Act and inform elected officials of the law's importance to the nation's economy and transportation systems. Pena noted the Clinton administration holds firm to its belief that given a level playing field America's working men and women "could compete in any market in the world." Herberger told the audience that U.S. Representative America's military forces will continue to Neil Abercrombie: need the commercial fleet well into the next century, in order for the nation to 'We 're trying to retain its superpower status. get this bill "Ninety-five percent of the tonnage that through.' has to go to any engagement for the U.S. Representative foreseeable future-I'm saying the year "' Herbert H. Bateman: "How are Herb Bateman and myself 2025-95 percent of it will go by sealift. 'The important and other people who want to put the Wen~theskilledlaborthatwillmanour point is to get a Rebuild City's Ports maritime [revitalization] bill [through] fleet. . , . program going to succeed if we can• t get 218 votes? Supporting Herberger s contention that Representative Charles Rangel (D' authorized, funded That's what it's about," Abercrombie said. the armed forces need a stron~ mer~h~t N.Y.) recalled the important role the U.S. and operating.' (In order for a bill to pass the House of fleet ~as the head of the Navy s log1st1cs merchant fleet played in his youth growing Representatives 218 of the 435 possible operations. up in New York. "We still d~pend o~ the ~ner fleet to ''The important point is to get a program votes are needed.) U.S. Representative Abercrombie praised Bateman for meet th~ sustamment ~ft, !Ilam.~y ~ause authorized, funded and operating." Charles Rangel: The chairman told the convention that working with Democrats and Republicans m?st of 1.t ~an be contamenzed, Vice Adbills to authorize the creation of amaritime in order to craft maritime revitalization mrral Wilham A. Earner told the conven'The merchant _o_n_._ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ revitalization program (H.R. 1350 in the legislation and work for its passage.ti marines were a Adding his support for the legislation House and S. 1139 in tl1e Senate) have pla.ce we could go cleared the committee process and await was Maritime Administrator Albert Herand become Vice Admiral William action by their respective chambers. He berger, who noted passage in Congress is somebody.' Earner: also noted the Senate had gone a step "closer at this point in time than we cer- , beyond by providing $46 million for tainly have been in the last three years." 'We strongly "The pride we had when we saw those support that ships moving out there with an American program in DOD.' flag there, to know that in every neighborAdmiral Salutes World War II Merchant Mariners hood, no matter what the training or lack l .... of training, the merchant marines were a 'This is what we did in Desert Stom1, place we could go and become someand this is what we plan to do in the fu- body," the congressman said. ture." ''That ship could dock in any port, and Earner noted the vessels covered by a the men that got off of those ships were maritime revitalization program would ambassadors for the United States of "be more than adequate to meet our sus- America, and they would set the standard tainment and resupply lift requirements for the entire world as to what a good ship into the future. was," Rangel remembered. "We strongly support that program in In an attempt to recapture that spirit as the Department of Defense," said the ad- well as provide jobs along the New York miral. waterfront, Mayor Rudolph Giuliani told the convention that his office will be workJones Act Endorsed ing to rebuild the city's port facilities. Those words almost echoed the New York Mayor remarks of the convention's keynote Rudolph Giuliani: speaker, Transportation Secretary Federico Pena, who said, "The president 'Healthy ports and I believe in the maritime industry. wor1U """' 11 111 Transportation Sec'y Federico Pena: create opportunities in the maritime industry and ... other industries. ' 'The president and I believe in the The mayor noted that maritime has maritime industry. ' played an important role throughout the Ray CrowelVPage One Vice Admiral William A. Earner, head of the U.S. Navy's logistics operations, talks with retired SIU contracts vice president Angus "Red" Campbell following the admiral's salute to merchant mariners who served during World War II. Campbell saw duty on a merchant ship off Normandy Beach during D-Day operations, June 6, 1944. Behind the pair is a display of World War II maritime-related posters brought to the MTD convention from the exhibit on display at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. "I contended from the very first day I took office that revitalizing the maritime industry was essential for our country. The maritime industry is essential to rebuilding the economy, essential to our transportation infrastructure, essential to fortifying our n~tional security," Pena stated. The secretary added that the history of the city and he plans to revive the industry in Brooklyn, Staten Island and Manhattan. "Healthy ports create opportunities in the maritime industry and it creates opportunities in other industries as well," Giuliani said. "I'm telling you all this because I want you to know that my administration and the city of New York has a major commitment to this industry." �12 SEAFARERS LOG Richard L. Trumka, · President. United Mine Workers of America �NOVEMBER 1995 SEAFARERS LOG 13 �p-i!----------------------------------------------------- ·- --14 SEAFARERS LOG NOVEMBER 1995 Unionists Fight for Job Security Whether in Detroit, Seattle or Decatur, Ill., American workers are ta1cing on giant corporations in an effort to ensure a decent living for themselves and their families, reported the presidents of three unions affiliated with the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department (MTD). Speaking to the biennial convention of the MTD meeting in New York City October 19-20, the union presidents discussed strikes stemming from bitter disputes with employers bent on breaking the pay levels, benefits and job security of the trade unionists who built their companies. Responding to the reports of George J. Kourpias, president, International Association of Machinists (IAM); Wayne E. Glenn, president, United Paperworkers Intemational Union (UPIU) and James J. Norton, president, Graphic Communications International Union (GCIU), the MTD delegates, representing 40 national unions and 28 port councils, unanimously voted to support the striking workers and provide all assistance possible. Boycott Detroit Newspapers In Detroit, where six unions are on strike against two newspapers-the Detroit Free Press and the Detroit News, union members are boycotting the two publications, theGCIU president reported. The2,500unionmemberswhoworkas reporters, press operators, printers, engravers, copy editors, drivers, circulation employees, photographers, mailers, artists and graphic workers went on strike July 13. The six newspaper unions have made an "unconditional offer to return to work, followed by 30 days of intense bargaining and a commitment that any unresolved issue at the end of the 30 days will be sent to binding arbitration," said Norton. The GCIU president also noted that the striking unions had made proposals to the companies that would have resulted in a savings of $15 million dollars. But the two papers, owned by Gannett Co. and Knight-Ridder, are intent on eliminating 200 full time jobs and 1,600 newspaper carrier positions. The publications also insist on eliminating benefits and allowing increases in pay solely at the discretion of management. Thus, the strike goes on, Norton concluded. Lock Out in Decatur In Decatur, ID. the British-owned Staley Corporation has locked out members of the UPlli for two years, reported Glenn. GCIU President The sweetener-producing company James J. Norton: demanded elimination of an 8-hour 'If you engage and workday and the 40-hour week, gutting the cooperate in a seniority provisions of the union contract and complete freedom to subcontract boycott of the adwork. Glenn explained that when Staley vertisers who go unionists refused to roll over, the company into the Detroit newspapers •..you forced a lock out and brought in replaceworkers. will help bring an ment To aid the 700 Paperworkers on strike, end to this strike.' trade unionists have urged Staley's largest customers to do business elsewhere. To date, the company's number one customer-Miller Beer- has taken its business away from Staley. Glenn urged all trade unionists to assist in the campaign to convince Pepsi-Cola, the company's second largest customer, to stop ordering sweetener from Staley. -------------UPIU President Wayne E. Glenn: 'Sometimes we have to trans/er the fight from the pla,nt gate to wherever we can make company CEO's and stockholders the most Kourpiassaidtheunion'sgoalis"toget the company back to the table" in order to "start talking about both the cuts in health care and also about job security." The IAM president noted the significance of the fight with Boeing. This struggle is "about whether or not the United States will continue to be number one in the aerospace industry and whether or not we will build airplanes in America or just sell them," Kourpias said. And it also is about whether America will have the kind of industries that can support highly skilled and well paid workers, he added. --------------- L 'What is involved here is whether or uncomfortable.' Rally With Boeing Workers Kourpias informed the delegates that in Seattle members of the IAM went on strike last month against Boeing Corporation, a leading aerospace company known for building airplanes. Machinists' members also are on strike at other Boeing facilities in Wichita, Kan.; Portland, Ore. and Spokane, Wash., he said. The central issue of the Boeing strike is job security, Kourpias said. Union memhers seek an opportunity to do the work before the company makes subcontracting decisions. Boeing also is seeking cuts in health care coverage that are unacceptable to the union. To support the more than 32,000 striking Boeing Machinists, union members are joining picket lines and participating in rallies around the country. IAM President George J. Kourpias: not we are going to remain a highwage, high-skilled society.' MTD Pledge of Support Noting that the struggle of one group of workers is a fight for all American trade unionists, MTD President Michael Sacco pledged the full cooperation and assistance of the MTD and its affiliated unions in the labor fights in Decatur, Detroit and Seattle. "We'll be there on your picket lines, we'll make calls to CEOs, we'll stop buying goods advertized in scab newspapers. In short, we'll do whatever it takes to help the trade unionists in these struggles win and win big," Sacco said. Sacco, Zenga, Pecquex Elected to MTD Posts By a unanimous vote, the delegates to the 1995 AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department (MTD) biennial convention re-elected Michael Sacco as the department's president. Also by acclamation, the delegates returned William Zenga as vice president and Frank Pecquex as executive secretary-treasurer to fill executive officer posts that will govern the MTD for the next four years. Sacco, who serves as the president of the Seafarers International Union, was appointed by the department's executive board as president of the MTD in 1988 . He was elected to his first full fouryear term during the 1991 convention. As MTD president, Sacco heads an organiza- tion composed of 40 different national unions and 28 port councils located in the United States and Canada The membership of the MTD represents 8.5 million workers in fields related to the maritime industry. William Zenga originally was elected vice president of theMIDatthe 1987biennial convention and has been reelected to the office at each successive convention. A member of the International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE) since 1941, Zenga currently serves as the business manager of IUOE Local 25, Marine Di vision, based in Metuchen, N .J. Zenga also serves as vice president of the Delaware Valley and Vicinity Maritime Port Council. In his duties as vice president, Zenga assists the president during meetings and presides in the president's absence. Frank Pecquex was appointed executive secretary-treasurer in 1993 following the retirement of Jean Ingrao. This will be Pecquex' s first full term. The job of executive secretary-treasurer ineludes keeping records of MTD meetings and conventions, tracking the department's financial matters and conducting the correspondence pertaining to the office. Priortohisappointment, Pecquex served from 1991 to 1993 as the MTD' s administrator. In that post, the New York native coordinated activities between the MTD and its network of port maritime councils. In 1985, Pecquex was maritime and labor-related designated the depart- issues on Capitol Hill. ment's legislative director. The MTD president, In that post, he promoted vice president and execu- tive secretary-treasurer are elected every four years during the department's convention. • ~ Being sworn in as officers of the Maritime Trades Department are, from the left, William Zenga, Michael Sacco and Frank Pecquex. Administering the oath is MTD General Counsel Leslie Tarantola. Each officer received a nomination and second from the convention floor. From the left who nominated William Zenga. The final two pictured are Ed Panarello of the Maritime are Byron Kelley and Joseph Sacco of the Seafarers, who nominated Michael Sacco. Port Council of Greater New York and Vicinity and Dennis Lundy of the Port Maritime The next two photos are of Wayne Gyenizs and Jack Webb of the Operating Engineers, Council of Southern California, who nominated Frank Pecquex. �Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea SEPTEMBER 16 - OCTOBER 15, 1995 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Port 34 New York Philadelphia 5 Baltimore 3 Norfolk 11 Mobile 9 New Orleans 19 Jacksonville 27 San Francisco 13 Wilmington 7 Seattle 25 Puerto Rico 9 Honolulu 11 Houston 27 St. Louis 2 Piney Point 0 Algonac 2 204 Totals Port New York 19 Philadelphia 6 Baltimore 2 Norfolk 7 Mobile 9 New Orleans 8 Jacksonville 12 San Francisco 13 Wilmington 5 14 Seattle Puerto Rico 3 Honolulu 3 8 Houstol! St. Louis 0 2 Piney Point Algonac 0 Totals 111 Port New York 17 Philadelphia 0 Baltimore 6 Norfolk 6 Mobile 3 New Orleans 7 Jacksonville 9 San Francisco 23 Wilmington 13 12 Seattle Puerto Rico 3 11 Honolulu Houston 10 St. Louis 0 Piney Point 4 Algonac 1 Totals 125 Port New York Philadelphia Baltimore Norfolk Mobile New Orleans Jacksonville San Francisco Wilmington Seattle Puerto Rico Honolulu Houston St. Louis Piney Point Algonac Totals Totals All De(!artments TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Trip Reliefs **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 8 3 4 s 21 0 5 4 17 3 6 10 10 0 3 0 7 11 7 22 0 17 18 21 15 9 18 12 16 1 22 20 5 4 17 8 2 1 12 4 28 3 0 10 0 3 1 33 221 9 3 10 13 9 10 10 8 1 0 0 1 0 5 0 12 1 11 10 5 0 0 5 5 11 10 3 3 1 130 1 8 8 4 3 0 2 7 1 4 17 0 135 0 0 3 15 26 45 35 16 1 I 8 20 2 2 5 7 39 28 36 32 45 4 2 11 11 4 12 51 2 23 8 8 14 1 55 3 15 1 382 5 407 1 86 2 0 0 36 23 3 13 6 1 2 10 15 12 18 23 5 0 1 5 0 0 0 66 0 12 15 11 2 6 7 1 10 5 14 0 2 6 24 19 6 1 1 6 1 4 11 21 10 17 7 22 2 6 8 9 0 0 21 0 0 0 6 1 4 4 16 18 0 7 2 3 14 0 2 1 1 2 3 3 4 17 20 22 6 6 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 20 0 4 0 95 12 36 202 2 0 1 1 0 29 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 2 0 10 0 1 2 4 0 4 2 1 0 0 0 0 9 9 5 16 1 222 23 2 l 13 5 15 43 1 2 0 4 0 24 7 4 0 3 0 0 0 18 1 3 0 15 8 8 12 3 15 1 23 0 0 0 7 0 2 3 0 0 0 0 0 4 19 15 0 0 1 0 0 0 10 0 1 7 0 15 41 233 159 36 15 68 24 2 1 11 0 102 6 32 7 1 0 0 9 2 1 1 15 9 1 5 1 2 48 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 13 8 9 1 2 2 11 56 20 29 4 17 20 9 7 3 2 2 4 2 1 14 1 0 5 9 7 3 3 3 9 11 1 3 27 19 19 7 10 8 8 5 3 0 6 48 75 45 89 0 9 1 0 0 0 7 3 26 5 5 0 0 0 2 0 4 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 46 1 256 0 0 132 0 0 0 88 436 1 221 486 700 210 905 1~24 386 8 17 18 1 7 0 0 0 0 0 3 10 0 0 3 0 2 4 3 0 10 9 3 2 2 0 1 40 134 112 0 0 0 394 412 154 143 I 5 17 27 4 19 2 11 4 26 17 28 12 51 35 35 15 57 28 14 18 17 1 2 3 7 11 9 5 31 l San Juan Thursday: December 7, January Friday: December 15, January 19 Honolulu Friday: December 15, January 19 Duluth Wednesday: December 13, January 17 Jersey City December 20, January 24 New Bedford Tuesday: December 19, January 23 Wednesday~ Each port's meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. 8 12 70 9 0 1 1996 Scholarships Open To Seafarers, Dependents Seven scholarships will be awarded next year to three SIU members and four dependent children (or spouses) of Seafarers. Of the three SIU scholarships, one is a four-year stipend in the total amount of $15,000; two are two-year scholarships, each totalling $6,000. Each of the dependent scholarships is for $15,000. One hint: In order to win one of the scholarships, an application form must be filled out and sent to the Seafarers Welfare Plan on or before April 15, 1996. That leaves just five months to collect all the necessary paperwork that must be included with the application package. The first step is to get an application form (either by mail using the coupon bdow or from any SIU hall). The next step is to fill out the form and gather the other items that accompany the form. These include an autobiographical statement, a photograph, a certified copy of applicant's birth certificate, high school transcripts and certification of graduation or official copy of high school equivalency scores, college transcripts, letters of reference and SAT or ACT score results. Another hint: Five months may seem like a lot of time to complete the application package, but it should be noted that some schools often are very slow in handling transcript requests. There is no time like the present to start the process. r--------------------------~ please send me the 1996 SIU scholarship program booklet which contains eligibility information, procedures for applying and the application form. Name Book Number Address City, State, Zip Code Telephone Number This application is for * "Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. ** "Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. 11 St. Louis 0 13 l 0 Mobile Wednesday: December 13, January 17 San Francisco Thursday: December 14, January 18 Wilmington Monday, December 18, January 22 Seattle Friday: December 22, January 26 1 7 4 10 6 Norfolk Thursday: December 7, January 11 Jacksonville Thursday: December 7, January 11 Algonac Friday: December 8, January 12 Houston Monday: December 11, January 15 New Orleans Tuesday: December 12, January 16 1 1 8 0 1 6 Baltimore Thursday: December 7, January 11 0 2 3 25 6 Piney Point Monday: December 4, January 8 New York Tuesday: December 5, January 9 Philadelphia Wednesday: December 6, January 10 7 4 26 55 0 0 1 15 7 20 50 9 6 30 2 8 0 0 2 1 7 7 7 71 4 1 88 11 1 0 2 2 0 0 14 I 5 3 5 20 0 1 6 16 0 10 1 0 1 0 16 2 1 0 1 3 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 12 0 9 3 0 0 0 1 10 2 3 3 3 8 9 19 12 7 16 1 0 1 164 1 9 5 December 1995 & January 1996 Membership Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, Inland Waters DECK DEPARTMENT 24 1 3 1 93 4 3 15 SEAFARERS LOG NOVEMBER 1995 D Self D Dependent Mail the completed form to tJu Sclw/arship Program, Seafarers Welfare Plan, 5201 AUlh Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. 11195 --------------------------~ �16 SEAFARERS LOG Seafarers International Union Directory NOVEMBER 1995 Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes SEPTEMBER 16- OCTOBER 15, 1995 CL-Company/Lakes L-Lakes NP-Non Priority Michael Sacco President John Fay Secretary-Treasurer Joseph Sacco Executive Vice President Augu~tin Tellez ViCe President Contracts George McCartney Vice President West Coast Roy A. "Buck" Mercer Vice President Government Services Jack Cafl'ey Vice President Atlantic Coast Byron Kelley Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters DeanCorgey Vice President Gulf Coast HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr. Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 BALTIMORE 1216 E. Baltimore St. Baltimore, MD 21202 (410) 327-4900 DULUTH 705 Medical Arts Building Duluth, MN 5580'2 (218)722-4110 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St. Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St. Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St. Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JERSEY CITY 99 Montgomery St. Jersey City, NJ 0730'2 (201) 435-9424 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy. Mobile, AL 36605 (334)478-0916 NEW BEDFORD · 48 Union St. New Bedford, MA 02740 (508) 997-5404 NEW ORLEANS 630 Jackson Ave. New Orleans, LA 70130 (504) 529-7546 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St. Norfolk, VA 23510 (804) 622-1892 PIDLADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St. Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215)336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75 Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave. Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac 0 21 7 0 8 0 0 5 2 0 2 17 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP •*REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class CL Clas.s L Class NP DECK DEPARTMENT 0 39 9 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 5 20 0 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 2 5 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 0 11 13 0 20 5 0 9 5 0 38 11 0 36 26 0 64 16 0 78 Totals All Departments *"Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. ** "Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. 34 Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters SEPTEMBER 16 - OCTOBER 15, 1995 Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals 2 1 37 2 42 3 0 5 0 8 0 3 0 1 9 5 11 0 0 2 0 2 DECK DEPARTMENT 0 0 3 1 1 1 ·10 1 0 18 1 5 0 6 5 0 2 0 0 2 *•REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C 32 3 3 19 7 2 2 21 5 27 40 30 42 3 1 1 0 5 0 1 11 6 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 1 0 0 1 0 0 6 0 0 3 0 0 11 0 0 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 0 0 0 5 2 0 5 1 0 2 5 6 5 0 9 0 15 0 1 0 1 6 3 0 1 0 0 6 0 13 12 19 ·u 48 60 49 5 12 20 58 Totals All Departments * "Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. **"Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. 64 1 0 7 0 8 0 0 1 0 1 0 2 0 5 7 e1u BULLETIN BOARD ~ ~ ~ ~ ? FLU SHOTS BEING GIVEN IN PORT OF SEATTLE Virginia Mason Clinic will again offer flu shots this year to members who qualify under the rules of the Seafarers Welfare Plan. The inoculations will be given on Monday, November 20, 1995, between 9:00 a.m. and 12:00 noon and again between 1:30 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. at the Seattle union hall, located at 2505 1st Avenue. In order to expedite the necessary paperwork, it is requested that any member intending to receive a flu shot call the hall one week prior to November 20. The telephone number is (206) 441-1960. To utilize this benefit, a member must be qualified under the rules of the plan. He or she must bring proof of 120 days seatimefor 1994 and one day of covered employment on or after May 15, 1995. (There are no exceptions to this rule.) 3 1 7 0 11 11 ~ UPDATE YOUR ADDRESS In order to ensure that SIU members and pensioners receive a copy of the Seafarers LOG each month-as well as other important mail- a correct home address must be on file with the union. If you have moved recently and have not yet notified the union, go to your nearest SIU hall and fill out a change of address form or send your new address (along with your name, book number and social security number) to: Address Control, Seafarers International Union, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St. San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Government Services Division (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 161h Santurce, PR 00907 (809) 721-4033 SEA TILE 2505 First Ave. Seattle, WA 98121 (206) 441-1960 ST.LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave. St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave. Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 SEAFARERS MUST RENEW Z-CARDS BY 1999 Issuance Year Merchant seamen must renew their z-cards every five years, according to U.S. Coast Guard regulations. In order to keep their merchant mariner's documents up to date, Seafarers can use the chart on the right. Renewal dates are determined by the issuance date on the z-cards. The exact date of expiration matches the month and date when the document was issued. Renewal Year 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1985 1980 1975 1970 1965 1960 1955 1950 1945 1940 1986 1981 1976 1971 1966 1961 1956 1951 1946 1941 1987 1982 1977 1972 1967 1962 1957 1952 1947 1942 1937 1988 1983 1978 1973 1968 1963 1958 1953 1948 1943 1938 1989 1984 1979 1974 1969 1964 1959 1954 1949 1944 1939 1995 1996 1997 199$ 1999 Source: Federal Register, September 27, 1994 �SEAFARERS LOG NOVEMBER 1995 J,. J,. mong the 19 Seafarers joinA ing the ranks of pensioners this month is Bosun Billie B. Darley. His 50 years with the union began aboard a Liberty ship and ended when he signed off the LNG Capricorn. He is one of 13 pensioners who sailed in the deep sea department; another five navigated the inland waterways, and one shipped in the Atlantic Fishermen's division. Nine of the retiring SIU members served in the U.S. military-four in the Navy, three in the Army, one in the Marine Corps and one in the Coast Guard. Among those joining the ranks of the retirees, Paul M. Butterworth, Harold F. Eady and Darley completed the bosun recertification course at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md., while Marvin Deloatch graduated from the steward recertification course there. These courses offer the highest level of training for deck and steward department members at the Lundeberg School. On this page, the Seafarers LOG presents brief biographical accounts of this month's pensioners. The SIU Wishes Our New Pensioners The Wind to Their Backs and Harbor from Storms Each month in the Seafarers LOG, the names of SIU members who recently have become pensioners appear with a brief biographical sketch. These men and women have served the maritime industry well, and the SIU and all their union brothers and sisters thank them for jobs well done and wish them happiness and health in the days ahead. deberg School. Born in Massachusetts, Brother Craig presently resides in Florida. BILLIEB. DARLEY, 67, first sailed for the SIU in 1945 aboard the Charles W. Warfield. The deck department member upgraded at the Lundeberg School and graduated from the bosun recertification course there in 1984. Since 1980, he has sailed primarily aboard LNG vessels. Born in Florida, Brother Darley continues to live in that state. Carolina. Brother Escobar upgraded at the Lundeberg School. He has retired to his native Puerto Rico. MOHAMED A. ELJANNY, 65, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1971 from the port of Detroit. Brother Eljanny sailed in both the deck and engine departments and shipped in all three divisions: deep sea, inland and Great Lakes. Born in Arabia, Brother Eljanny now resides in Michigan. ROBERT J. KOTECKI, 65,joined the SIU in 1962 in the port of JackMARVIN sonville, DEWATCH, '-'---====...J Fla. Brother 57,began Kotecki sailed in both the sailing with steward and engine departthe Seaments. He served in the U.S. farers in Army from 1950 to 1953. 1964 from Born in Illinois, Brother the port of Kotecki now calls Florida = "--====="'--' Norfolk, Va. Brother Deloatch shipped in the home. steward department. He upgraded at the Lundeberg PABLO School and completed the RAMOS, steward recertification program 59, started there in 1980. He also was inhis career volved with union organizing with the activities. Born in North Seafarers in Carolina, Brother Deloatch 1966 in the makes his home in New York. port of New York. DEEP SEA Brother Ramos sailed in the KENNETH RAYMOND DYKSTRA, deck department and upgraded V. BAKER, 65, started at the Lundeberg School. Born 65,began in Puerto Rico, Brother Ramos his career sailing with now lives in New York. with the SIU the Seai.:1 1968 in farers in .-----=---...., ANTHONY the port of 1948 from Detroit. The S.ROTUNthe port of Michigan na- ~~~~ DA, 59, ==~===Norfolk, Va. tive shipped in the deck departgraduated Brother Baker shipped as a ment in both the deep sea and from the member of the engine departGreat Lakes divisions. Brother Andrew ment. He served in the U.S. Dykstra has retired to Michigan. Furuseth Army from 1954 to I 956. Training Born in Georgia, Brother Baker School in HAROLD makes his horn~ in Texas. 1961 and joined the union in F.EADY, the port of New York. Brother 65,joined PAULM. Rotunda sailed as a member of the union in the engine department and was BUTTER1967 in the WORTH, actively involved in union orport of San 70, started ganizing activities. From 1956 Francisco. to 1960, he served in the U.S. his career The deck with the SIU Navy. A native of West Vir~--'--'~=~department in 1968 in ginia, Brother Rotunda conmember upgraded his skills at tinues to live there. the port of the Lundeberg School and Baltimore. graduated from the bosun recerThe deck department member tification course there in 1990. GEORGE upgraded at the Lundeberg From 1951to1954, he served S. THOMPSchool in Piney Point, Md., and in the U.S . Navy . Born in IlSON, 65, completed the bosun recertifica- linois, Brother Eady presently began sailtion course there in I 982. lives in Texas. ing with the From 1943 to 1945, he served union in in the U.S. Navy. Born in West 1968 in the ROBERTO Virginia, Brother Butterworth port of ESCOBAR, now lives in Georgia. Philadel53, graduphia. The Pennsylvania native ated from shipped in the engine departLAWRENC the Andrew ment and upgraded at the LunCRAIG,66, Furuseth deberg School. From 1947 to Training began sail1951, he served in the U.S. School in ing with the Navy. Brother Thomas con1960 and Seafarers in tinues to live in his native state started his career with the 1948 from of Pennsylvania. union in the port of New York. the port of Born in Puerto Rico, he sailed Seattle. He in the steward department, last PAUL F. WHALEN, 67, =-==---:::.-"'==c....==-= shipped in sailing as a chief cook aboard started his career with the the engine department and the NPR, Inc. vessel, the Seafarers in 1958 in the port of upgraded to QMED at the Lun- New York. The New York native sailed in the engine department. He attended upgrading courses at the Lundeberg School. From 1951to1952, he served in the U.S. Army. Brother Whalen now calls California home. INLAND WILFORD W.HOPKINS,62, joined the Seafarers in 1966 in the port of Norfolk, Va. During his union career, Boatman Hopkins sailed as a launch operator, relief captain and captain. Born in North Carolina, Boatman Hopkins has retired to that state. ~--~l CARLTON A.SHANNON,62, started his career with the Seafarers in 1977 in the port of Piney Point, Md. Boatman Shannon sailed as a member of the engine department. From 1951to1972 he served in the U.S. Coast Guard. A native of North Carolina, Boatman Shan- 11 J,. J,. non continues to live in his home state. NORMAN W. SAWYER, 62, started his career with the SIU in 1956 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Boatman Sawyer sailed in both the steward and engine departments. Born in Virginia, he presently lives in North Carolina. WOODROW W. STOKLEY, 56, joined the SIU in 1972 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Boatman Stokley shipped in the engine department, last sailing as an engineer. Born in North Carolina, Boatman Stokley now makes his home in Virginia. ATLANTIC FISHERMEN LEOJ. SABATO, 67,joined the Atlantic Fishermen's Union in 1946 in the port of Gloucester, Mass. Born in Massachusetts, he shipped in the deck department. In 1968 Brother Sabato became an official for the union and served as a port agent in the port of Gloucester, Mass. As a rank-and-file member, he participated in a number of organizing drives and beefs. Brother Sabato continues to live in his native state of Massachusetts. I LOG-A-RHYTHM by Edme Dale Sessions Ill Song of the Tradewinds Oh I am the wind the sailors love, I am steady and strong and true. They follow my track by the clouds above, Over the fathomless tropic blue. Through daylight and dark, I follow the bark, I keep like a hound on the trail. I'm stronger at noon, yet under the moon I stiffen the bunt of the sails. Yes I am the wind, your next of kin, Race with me o'er the top of the waves. I love all the sailors and ships upon the seas, The dolphins, the whales and the bays! Ships on Canvas Now I don't care from which way the winds shall blow, north-south-the Gulf, from the bays or the China Sea! Just paint me a ship that's like a ship, and that'll do for me! (Eddie Dale Sessions III sailed with the SIU from 1987 until 1990, last shipping as an AB aboard the M. V. Faust. He presently resides in Phoenix, Ariz. where he wrote these poems.) �18 NOVEMBER 1995 SEAFARERS LOG Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships minutes first are reviewed by the union's contract department. Those Issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. LNG GEMINl(ETC), July 16Chairman Ramli Mohamad, Secretary Dana Cunningham, Educational Director D. Wise, Deck Delegate Paul Jagger, Engine Delegate Kevin Conklin. Secretary thanked crew for keeping lounge in order and reminded those signing off to leave quarters clean. Educational director advised members to upgrade at Lundeberg School as soon as possible. Treasurer announced $331 in ship's fund. Deck delegate noted lack of air conditioning aboard ship while in shipyard. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Bosun reported telex from SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez about deck crew work received and posted on crew bulletin board. Crew discussed purchase of snorkeling equipment, dictionary and world atlas from money in ship's fund. Crewmembers extended vote of thanks to steward department for job well done. Crew reported LNG Gemini responded to distress signal from crew of Minral Dampier. Following five-hour search of area, nothing was recovered. Next port: Nagoya, Japan. PAUL BUCK(Ocean Shipholding), July 2-Chainnan Luke Wells, Secretary Dwight Wuerth, Educational Director James Robbins, Engine Delegate Jonathan Newhouse, Steward Delegate Al Young. Chairman stated new washer and dryer needed for crew laundry. He advised crew of return flight arrangements being made which will be relayed once ship arrives in port. Bosun thanked galley gang for excellent cookouts. Educational director reminded crew to attend tanker operations course at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked contracts department to look into issuing members insurance photo I.D.s so they can go to hospitals without problem. Chairman asked crew to consider others on board by using Hook-up on the Hudson proper washing machines and dryers for work clothes. /TB JACKSONVILLE (Sheridan Transportation), August 27-Chairman Walter Petty, Secretary Rayfield Crawford, Educational Director Jurgen Gottschlich, Deck Delegate Hans Gottschlich, Steward Delegate Luis Escobar. Chairman urged crewmembers to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman advised crew of new regulations for tankennen and stressed importance of taking Lundeberg School's tanker operations course. Crew thanked steward department for job weU done. LAWRENCE H. GIANELLA (Ocean Shipholding), August 29Chairman Rudy Santos, Secretary James Lewis, Deck Delegate Scott Snodgrass, Engine Delegate Joe Walker, Steward Delegate S. Suraredjo. Chairman reported $170 in ship's fund. Secretary asked contracts department to make sure company provides adequate supply of fresh fruit and vegetables and sufficient amount of milk to last entire trip. Chairman reminded crew to attend tanker operations course at Piney Point. PAUL BUCK (Ocean Shipholding), August 27-Chairman John Koneles, Secretary Dwight Wuerth, Educational Director James Robbins, Deck Delegate Todd McClane, Engine Delegate Lionel Lee, Steward Delegate David Smith. Chairman noted new mattresses would come on board in Houston, while dryers and VCR would be requested upon arrival. He reminded crewmembers to attend tanker operations course by next year. Secretary informed crew that reports of tanker operations course being offered at Paul Hall Center have been very favorable. Educational director encouraged all members to attend upgrading classes at Lundeberg School. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next port: Norfolk, Va. SEA-LAND DISCOVERY (SeaLand Service), August 28-Chairman J.R. Wilson, Secretary Brenda Kamiya, Educational Director Robert Martinez, Deck Delegate Monte Grimes, Engine Delegate Jorge Bermeo, Steward Delegate Jorge Salazar. Chairman discussed sending letter to contracts department concerning sailing days per trip. Bosun thanked all unlicensed crewmembers and stated he hoped to sail with such outstanding SIU members again. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward delegate thanked crew for separating plastics from other trash. Crew thanked steward department for job well done. Next port: Oakland, Calif. Bosun Jerry Borucki operates the OM/ Hudson's crane during hook-up of the aft cargo hoses at Union Oil Co. in Richmond, Calif. SEA-LAND EXPLORER (SeaLand Service), August 28-Chairman William Lough, Secretary William Burdette, Educational Director Bozidar Balic. Engine delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT noted by deck or steward department delegates. Crew reported water in crew's quarters too hot for comfortable showers. Crew noted captain ordered gangway secured in position that blocks lifeboats. Crew thanked galley gang for job well done. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. SEA-LAND RELIANCE (SeaLand Service), August 27-Chairman Dennis Brown, Secretary Gene Sivley, Educational Director Steve Biglow, Deck Delegate George Vukmir, Engine Delegate Prentiss Smith, Steward Delegate Dien Short. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew extended vote of thanks to steward department for job well done. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. CHARLESTON (Apex Marine), September 21-Chainnan Anthony Maben, Secretary German Rios, Educational Director G. Demetropoulos, Steward Delegate James Harris. Chairman noted patrolman to meet ship in Charleston, S.C. for payoff. Secretary discussed importance of SPAD in upcoming elections and asked members to support union in all activities. Educational director urged crew to take tanker operations course at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Educational director gave special vote of thanks to galley gang for fine job. Next port: Jacksonville, Fla. CLEVELAND (Sealift, Inc.), September 17-Chainnan D.J. Garoutte, Secretary M. Vinca, Educational Director I.S. Samra, Deck Delegate Paul Cadran, Engine Delegate Steve Sanches, Steward Delegate Carlos Sierra. Chairman discussed Alaskan oil legislation and noted passage will mean more jobs for American seamen. He reminded crewmembers if they have shipboard problems to report them to department delegates. He advised crew to dispose of trash in proper containers. Secretary asked crew to separate plastic items from other refuse. Educational director urged members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer announced $105 in ship's fund . No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman asked crew to keep laundry room clean and noise down. Next port: Diego Garcia. LNG CAPRICORN (ETC), September 24-Chainnan Charles Kahl, Secretary Dana Paradise, Educational Director Otis Sessions, Deck Delegate Richard Lewis, Engine Delegate Robert Rice. Chairman commended crew for fine voyage. He thanked all hands for performing in "best SIU tradition." Secretary informed crew that vacation forms are on board ship. Educational director encouraged crewmembers to upgrade and better their skills at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Treasurer announced $220 in ship's fund. Crew asked for improved communications with union headquarters. Crew thanked galley gang for delicious steak dinner. Next port: Nagoya, Japan. LNG GEMINI (ETC), September 3-Chairman Philip Parisi, Secretary Kris Hopkins, Educational Director William Twiford, Deck Delegate Paul Jagger, Engine Delegate Thomas Flynn, Steward Delegate Patricia Ballance. Secretary explained sanitation process for ship's second deck. Educational delegate urged members to upgrade and take advantage of educational oppor. tunities at Piney Point. Treasurer announced $400 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman asked crewmembers to help keep lounge clean and avoid slamming doors, which disturbs those sleeping on first and second decks. Next port: Bontang, Indonesia. OVERSEAS OHIO (Maritime Overseas), September 24-Chairman Gregory Hamilton, Secretary Earl Gray Sr., Educational Director Scott Wilkinson, Deck Delegate Bill Barrett, Engine Delegate Gregory Johns, Steward Delegate R. Lee. Chairman told crewmembers there will be ice forming on deck this trip and advised them to use extra care. He informed crew arctic gear would be issued soon. Bosun encouraged crewmembers to remain politically active by writing congressmen and urging them to support H.R 1350, the maritime revitalization bill. Secretary explained that survival of maritime depends on members staying politically active. He spoke to crew about need for members to write Congress to support maritime bills. Educational director noted importance of upgrading at Paul Hall Center and attending tanker operations course. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew reminded to read monthly President's Report in LOG. Crew extended vote of thanks to galley gang for job well done. Next port: Valdez, Alaska. OVERSEAS PHILADELPHIA (Maritime Overseas), September asked contracts department to look into more timely reimbursement of medical expenses for members and families. SEA-LAND ATLANTIC (SeaLand Service), September 24Chairman William Stoltz, Secretary Edward Porter, Educational Director Ralph Garner. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked that new ice machine be fixed upon arrival in port of Port Elizabeth, N .J. SEA-LAND CONSUMER (SeaLand Service), September 5Chairman Norberto Prats, Secretary Mark Holley. Educational director advised crewmembers of importance of upgrading at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed Service With a Smile Aboard the Bobo Adding a few last-minute ingredients is all that remains to complete preparations for another meal aboard the 2nd Lt. John P. Bobo. Chief Steward Dorray Saberon took this picture of his fellow galley gang members on the Amsea vessel. They are (from left, front row) Chief Cook Santa Paturzo, SA Darlene Cherry, Cook/Baker Sharon Herner, (back row) SA Toro Jerson and SA Bruce Davidson. 10-Chainnan Tim Olvany, Secretary Mark Flores, Educational Director Patrick Coppola, Deck Delegate Justo Lacayo, Engine Delegate Spencer Smith, Steward Delegate Angel Correa. Chairman announced upcoming payoff and asked crewmembers to clean rooms before leaving ship. Bosun encouraged members to donate to SPAD to keep maritime a high priority in Congress. Secretary reminded crew to remain aware of union and maritime activities by reading Seafarers LOG. Educational director urged crew to write congressmen for their support for maritime legislation. He also stressed importance of upgrading skills at Lundeberg School. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chafrman reminded crewmembers not to smoke in mess hall during meal hours. Crew asked contracts department to look into reducing time needed for pension. Crew thanked steward department for job well done. Crewmembers observed moment of silence for departed SIU brothers and sisters. PAUL BUCK (Ocean Shipholding), September 17-Chairrnan John Koneles, Secretary Dwight Wuerth, Educational Director James Robbins, Deck Delegate Gary Nogel, Engine Delegate Lionel Lee, Steward Delegate David Smith. Crew discussed upgrading lounge VCR to multisystem model so American movies can be purchased and viewed overseas. Chairman noted payoff in Norfolk, Va. Secretary reported reliefs due aboard ship on October 4 in Puerto Rico. Educational director reminded members to attend tanker operations course at Piney Point. He also discussed U.S. Coast Guard tankerman's endorsements. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman read crew latest tanker operations course information in Seafarers LOG . Crew OT reported. Steward delegate asked crew to keep doors to mess room locked while in port. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang for job well done. Next port: Elizabeth, N.J. SEA-LAND PRODUCER (SeaLand Service), September 3Chajrman Ken McGregor, Secretary George Boop, Educational Director Robert Hamil, Deck Delegate Larry Reiner. Chairman reported entire Sea-Land Producer crew sent letters to their senators and representatives in Congress, urging support for H.R. 1350 and S. J 139, the maritime revitalization bills. Bosun.· thanked deck delegate Reiner for promoting shipwide letter-writing campaign. He additionally stressed importance of contributing to SPAD. He also thanked deck department for job well done in cargo holds. Educational director stressed importance of tanker operations course at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew extended "very well deserved" vote of thanks to steward department for excellent food and smiling faces. SGT. MATEJ KOCAK(Waterman Steamship), September 3Chairman Angelo Urti, Secretary Lonnie Gamble, Educational Director Donald Peterson, Engine Delegate Robert Hines Jr., Steward Delegate Kenneth Greenidge. Chairman announced payoff upon arrival in Morehead City, N.C. on September S. Educational director advised crewmembers to upgrade skills at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked union headquarters for sending ship copies of Seafarers LOG, which keeps them informed on union news. Chairman gave personal thanks to galley gang, engine and deck departments for jobs well done. �SEAFARERS LOG NOVEMBER 1995 19 Final Departures DEEP SEA JAMES W. CARTER Pensioner James W . Carter, 91, died August 7 . The Alabama native started his career with the SIU in 1944 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Brother Carter shipped in the steward department, last sailing as a chief cook. He began receiving his pen sion in March 1968. HOWARD F. CLARK Howard F. Clark, 60, passed away September 10. Born in South Dakota, he joined the Seafarers in 1966 in the port of San Francisco. Brother Clark sailed in the steward department. He graduated from the bosun recertification course in 1979 at the union's training facility, the Lundeberg School, in Piney Point, Md. From 1953 to 1957, he served in the U.S. Navy. EDWARD ''EDDIE" DALE Pensioner Edward "Eddie" Dale, 68, passed away August 27. Brother Dale graduated from the Andrew Furuseth Training School, which provided entry-level skills, in 1962 and joined the Seafarers in the port of New York. The Alabama native sailed in the steward department and completed the steward recertification course in J980 at the Lundcberg School. From 1945 to 1955, he served in the U.S. Army. Brother Dale retired in November 1989. JACOBO ENRIQUEZ Pensioner Jacobo Enriquez, 88, passed away July 21. He began his sailing career with the union in ====== 1941 in the port of New York. Brother Enriquez shipped in the steward department and was active in various union organizing drives. Born in Puerto Rico, Brother Enriquez began receiving his pension in September 1972. LYNWOOD FITZGERALD Pensioner Lynwood Fitzgerald, 71, passed away July 11. Born in Virginia, he -1 b~gan sailing ·, with the - Seafarers in 1948 from the port of Baltimore. Brother Fitzgerald sailed in the engine department and upgraded frequently at the Lundeberg School. From 1944 to 1946, he served in the U.S. Navy. Brother Fitzgerald began receiving his pension in June 1981. 1957. He began receiving his pension in February 1986. ALBERT J.MARTINELLI Pensioner Albert J. Martinelli, 73, passed away June 7. Brother Martinelli joined the SIU in 1943 in the .___ _ _ ___, port of Baltimore. He sailed in the engine department and upgraded to QMED at the Lundeberg School. EDWARD S. FRIEDERICK The Pennsylvania native was acPensioner Edward S. Friederick, tive in union organizing drives. 88, passed away February 17. He began receiving his pension Brother Friederick started his sail- in December 1984. ing career with the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1945, before that RAYMOND V. McDONALD union merged with the SIU' s Raymond V. AGLIWD. Born in South McDonald, Dakota, Brother Friederick lived 55, died in Oregon and retired in June April 20. He 1969. began his career with WILLIAM A.C. GRAVES the SIU in Pensioner William A.C. Graves, the 1960s in 68, died August 28. A native of the p01t of Canada, he started his career Boston. The with the Marine Cooks and Massachusetts native sailed in Stewards in 1959 in the port of the deck department in the inland New York, before that union division. He completed the towmerged with the SIU's boat operator course in 1978 and AGLIWD. Brother Graves received his towboat operator's retired in October 1977. license. From 1979 to 1983, Brother McDonald served as a union representative in the GEORGE E. HAYS Tampa and Jacksonville, Fla. George E. ports. Afterwards, Brother McHays, 44, Don ald returned to shipping on passed away deep sea vessels. From 1958 to July 21. 1961 , he served in the U.S. Born in KenMarine Corps. tucky, he began sailing DONALD C. McGLYNN with the Seafarers in Donald C. 1980 from McGlynn, the port of Honolulu. Brother 22, passed Hays shipped in the engine away July 25 deprutment and upgraded to as a result of QMED at the Lundeberg School. a drowning He served in the U.S. Navy from accident with 1972 to 1976. Seafarer Bryan Terry '---'--===----=~-=--;;,_,J near Hilo, HERBERT 0. LEAKE Hawaii. Brother McGlynnjoined I Pensioner the Seafarers in 1992 in the port HerbertO. of Honolulu. He sailed in both Leake, 63, the steward and deck departpassed away ments aboard American Hawaii September Cruises' ships. 17. Brother Leake SILAS M. McGOWAN graduated from the Pensioner Silas M. Mc----'===----' Andrew Gowan, 66, Furuseth Training School in died July 8. I 961 and joined the union in the Born in p011 of New York. Born in VirTexas, he ginia, he sailed in the deck began sailing department and completed the with the bosun recertification course in union in l 975 at the Lundeberg School. L___.!!!o_~'----~__Jl945from During his career with the SIU, he was active in several union or- the port of New Orleans. Brother McGowan shipped as a member ganizing drives. From 1949 to of the deck department, last sail1952, he served in the U.S. Army. Brother Leake retired in ing as a bosun. From 1950 to 1952, he served in the U.S. February 1992. Army. Brother McGowan retired in July 1991. JOSEMADUREI ELIAS MENDOZA Pensioner Pensioner Jose Elias MenMadurei, 78, doza, 84, died August passed away 13. Brother July 18. He Madurei started his , started his ~ / career with - · career with the Seafarers the Seafarers in 1952 in -~==== in 1944 in '---"------~--=-..~ the port of the port of Baltimore. He sailed Galveston, Texas. Brother Mena s a member of the deck departdoza sailed as a member of the ment. Born in Brazil, he became engine department. Born in a naturalized U.S. citizen in JIRODEWA Pensioner Jiro Dewa, 77, died August 7. He started sailing with the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1939 from the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District (AGLIWD). Born in Hawaii, Brother Dewa began receiving his pension in February 1980. • .v-, Mexico, he became a naturalized U.S. citizen. He began receiving his pension in November 1983. union merged with the SIU' s AGLIWD. Brother Reed began receiving his pension in June 1969. CHEEMOHAT LEWIS W. ROBERTS Pensioner LewisW. Roberts, 77, passed away August 3. He joined the Seafarers in 1946 in the port of Bos=='---=~~~ ton. Brother Roberts last sailed as a bosun in the deck department. From 1942 to 1944, he served in the U.S. Marine Corps. Born in Pennsylvania, he retired in November 1984. Pensioner Chee Mohat, 94, died August 6. Born in the Philippines, Brother Mohat joined the SIU in '-""""'---'"'-==-'-'-~~~ 1943 in the port of New York. He last sailed as a bosun in the deck department. Brother Mohat began receiving his pension in January 1967. BENJAMIN RUCKER Pensioner Benjamin Rucker, 77, died August 4. Bornin Georgia, he began sailing with the SIU in 1944 from the port of New York. Brother Rucker shipped in the steward department, last sailing as a chief steward. He lived in Texas and retired in July 1983. SERGIO MORALES . Pensioner I Sergio Morales, 69, passed away ' September 4. Brother , _ . · Morales started his career with = === the Seafarers in 1979 in the port of New York. He sailed in the steward department and upgraded his skills at the Lundeberg School. Brother Morales last sailed as a chief cook during the Gulf War. Born in Puerto Rico, Brother Morales retired in June 1992. GENE J. RUSSELL Pensioner Gene J. Russell, 74, passed away August 14. Brother Russell joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards (MCS) in the port of New York, before that union merged with the SIU' s AGLIWD. He sailed during World War II, then returned to New York as an MSC union representative. After the New York MSC port closed, he returned to sea. Born in Pennsylvania, Brother Russell began receiving his pension in January 1992. BERNARD MOSES Pensioner Bernard Moses, 87, died August 7. He joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU' s AGLIWD. Born in New York, Brother Moses began receiving his pension in July 1968. LOUIS NAVARRO Pensioner Louis Navarro, 92, passed away May 28. Born in South America, he began his career with the Marine Cooks and Stewards in the late 1940s, before that union merged with the Sill's AGLIWD. Brother Navarro began receiving his pension in March 1971. WILLIAM H. PARISH Pensioner William H. Parish, 72, died August 31. Brother Parish joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1946 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. He served in the U.S. Army from 1941to1944. Brother Parish retired in October 1979. RAFAEL D. SANTIAGO Pensioner Rafael D. Santiago, 84, died August 10. A native of Puerto Rico, he started his career with the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1958, before that union merged with the SIU' s · AGLIWD. Brother Santiago retired in June 1969. I I ' SAMUEL A. SEAGER ! Pensioner Samuel A. Seager, 78, i passed away September 30. 'I Brother Seager joined the Marine ; Cooks and Stewards (MSC) in I 1952 in the port of San Francis! co, before that union merged i with the SIU's AGLIWD. He sailed in both the steward and . deck departments. From 1964 to · 1966, Brother Seager served as a KARLJ.RANA port agent for the MCS and he Pensioner was a member of the merger comKarl J. Rana, mittee in 1978 which advanced 90, died Sep- the plan for bringing the MCS tember 3. into the SIU's AGLIWD. Born in He joined the New York, he began receiving Seafarers in his pension in January 1986. 1947 in the port of New ALFREDO SICAN SR. Orleans. Alfredo Brother Rana Sican Sr., 88, sailed as a member of the died August steward department. Born in 21. He began Norway, he became a naturalized sailing with U.S. citizen. He retired in the Seafarers February 1970. in 1961 from the port of Seattle. SAMUEL A. REED SR. Born in the Pensioner Samuel A. Reed Sr., Philippines, Brother Sican 74, passed away June 19. Born shipped as a member of the deck in Texas, he started his career department. with the Marine Cooks and Co11tiliued on page 20 Stewards in 1945, before that 1 1 �,....-------- - - - 20 -- - - -~-- - NOVEMBER 1995 SEAFARERS LOG Final Departures Continued from page 19 MARTIN SIERRA 1945 in the port of New Orleans. The engine department member upgraded at the Lundeberg School. Born in Estonia, Brother Taska retired in August 1971. BRYAN TERRY Pensioner Bryan Terry, Martin Sier20, drowned ra, 71, July 25 with passed away Seafarer August 11. Donald McBorn in PennGlynn near sylvania, he Hilo on the joined the island of union in 1.---=====--_J 1941 in the .....____,......_ ~~_J Hawaii. Brother port of New York. Brother SierTerry graduated from the Lunra sailed in the steward departdeberg School's entry level proment. From 1941to1947, he gram for seamen in February served in the U.S. Navy. Brother 1995 and joined the SIU in the Sierra retired in September 1986. port of Piney Point, Md. He sailed as a member of the deck FRANCIS E. SMITH department. Born in Oregon, he Francis E. made his home in Washington Smith, 71, state. died July 25. A native of MANUEL N. TIGMO Maryland, he Pensioner began sailing ·Manuel N. with the SIU Tigmo, 79, in 1947 from died August the port of 17. He .__=.;:__===-==-___, Baltimore. began sailing Brother Smith sailed in the with the SIU steward department and comin 1947 from pleted the steward recertification the port of course at the Lundeberg School in 1980. A World War II veteran, =----=.:---~-f> New York. Brother Tigmo shipped in the he served in the U.S. Marine steward department, last sailing Corps from 1942 to 1945. as a chief cook. Born in the Philippine Islands, he began his JOSEPH W. SPEARMAN retirement in August 1982. Joseph W. Spearman, RICARDO E. VASQUEZ 42, passed Ricardo E. away June Vasquez, 58, 22. Brother passed away Spearman July 27. graduated Brother from the LunVasquez deberg started his School's career with entry program in 1978 and joined the Seafarers the SIU in the port of Piney = - - - - ' in 1968 in Point, Md. The Maryland native t he port of New York. The sailed in the engine department. Panamanian native sailed in both the engine and steward departGLEN C. STANFORD ments. Pensioner Glen C. StanHAROLD L. WEA VER ford, 68, passed away Pensioner July 27. He Harold L. began sailing Weaver, 72, with the died July 11. Seafarers in Born in Mis1948 from sissippi, he the port of began sailing New Orleans. The Mississippi nawith the SIU tive shipped in the deck departin 1951 from ment and completed the bosun ---"'--"--"-"=~__Jtheportof recertification course in 1975 at Mobile, Ala. Brother Weaver the Lundeberg School. From shipped in both the deep sea and 1945 to 1946, he served in the i nland divisions. As a member of U.S. Army. Brother Stanford the deck department, he comretired in January 1989. pleted the bosun recertification course at the Lundeberg School i n 1974. Brother Weaver lived JOHNR. TALBOT i n Alabama and began receiving Pensioner his pension in September 1986. John R. Talbot, 73, died August 18. RAYMOND K. WEEDEN Born in Penn- RaymondK. sylvania, he Weeden,45, joined the passed away SIU in 1943 April 3. in the port of Brother Baltimore. 1 Weeden Brother Talbot was a member of .. began sailing the deck department. He last with the sailed as a bosun before retiring ' · union in in July 1977. I_c..::.::.===== 1968. He shipped in the steward departNICKOLAI TASKA ment, last sailing as a chief Pensioner s teward. Born in California, Nickolai Brother Weeden made his home Taska, 79, 111 Nevada. passed away July 10. EARL WILLIS Brother p ensioner Earl Willis, 70, passed Taska started away September 16. Born in his career West Virginia, he began sailing with the with the SIU in 1956 from the Seafarers in port of Baltimore. Brother Willis shipped in the engine department and served as a delegate to the SIU's 1970 educational crew conference held at the Lundeberg School. From 1945 to 1950, he served in the U.S. Army. Brother Willis began receiving his pension in November 1988. INLAND ROBERT J. ALDRIDGE Pensioner RobertJ. Aldridge, 70, passed away July 30. Born in Kansas, he began sailing with the Seafarers '------"'="---====in 1957 from the port of Houston. Boatman Aldridge sailed as a mate and captain. From 1943 to 1946, he served in the U.S. Navy. Boatman Aldridge began receiving his pension in July 1983. PATRICK E. DYEL PatrickE. Dyel, 34, passed away August 18 after a long fight with cancer. He graduated from the Lun......__.........._ .......~... deberg School's entry level program for seamen in 1979 and began sailing with the Seafarers from the port of Piney Point, Md. BoatIJlan Dyel sailed in the deck department. Born in New York, he resided in Florida. Boatman Dyel' s wish to have his ashes scattered in the Gulf of Mexico was honored and carried out by his shipmates aboard the Energy Altair on September 1. DONALD H. KIRK Pensioner DonaldH. Kirk, 72 passed away August24. Born in New York, he started his career with the Seafarers in 1968 in the port of Baltimore. Boatman Kirk was a licensed master. He advanced in the deck department from mate to captain and worked primarily aboard Curtis Bay Towing Co. vessels in Baltimore. He began receiving his pension in November 1984. ALEX LeBLANC Pensioner Alex LeBlanc, 76, died May 23. He joined the SIU in 1970 in the port of Port Arthur, Texas. The Louisiana native sailed as a tugboat captain. Boatman LeBlanc retired in March 1984. L:.._-====== HOLMES S. MORRISON JR, Holmes S. Morrison Jr., 53, passed away August 30. Born in New York, he started his career with the Seafarers in 1977 in the port ofHous ton. Boatman Morrison sailed as a member of ..__~~.;;.;;....~.;...;....;...___,thedeck department. BACHE G. PARKS Boatman Warmack shipped in the deck department • in both the inland and deep sea divisions. From 1942 to 1945,he served in the U.S. Navy. Born in G~orgia, he began receiving his pension in March 1989. BacheG. JOHN WOZUNK JR. Parks, 58, Pensioner died SeptemJohn ber 3. BoatWozunkJr., man Parks 61, died ' joined the August 1. SIU in 1982 Born in New in the port of Jersey, he Piney Point, joined the Md. The Vir' SIU in 1964 ginia native sailed as a member <.::.-==-----==--~' in the port of of the deck department. From Philadelphia. Boatman Wozunk 1955 to 1958, he served in the sailed in the deck department and U.S. Navy. upgraded at the Lundeberg School to earn his pilot's license. REGINAL M. PASUR From 1952 to 1954, he served in Pensioner the U.S. Navy. Boatman Wozunk ReginalM. retired in November 1990. Pasur, 70, passed away GREAT LAKES September 30. A native KIRK D. BUSHELL of Texas, he started his KirkD. career with Bushell, 33, the Seafarers died June 14. in 1957 in the port of Houston, The Michisailing as a member of the deck gan native department. He served in the joined the U.S. Navy from 1944 to 1946. SIU in 1980 Boatman Pasur began receiving in the port of ' his pension in September 1990. Piney Point, ! Md. Brother Bushell sailed in the engine deJOHN R. SHORES partment and upgraded his skills Pensioner regularly at the Lundeberg School. John R. · ·Shores, 86, died Septem- EDWARD J. GALLAGHER ber 4. Born Pensioner Edin Maryland, ward J. Galhe started his lagher, 75, career with passed away the Seafarers September 5. ..___ _ _ _~__, in 1960 in Born in the port of Philadelphia. BoatOhio, he man Shores sailed in the deck began sailing department and began receiving with the SIU his pension in January 1974. ======:=:::...:-~===--=in1968from the port of Cleveland. Brother Gallagher shipped as a member SYDNEY A. SIMMONS of the deck department. From Sydney A. 1943 to 1945, he served in the Simmons, U.S. Navy. Brother Gallagher 73, passed began receiving his pension in away June March 1983. 16. A native of Maryland, CURTIS L. SOUTHWICK he joined the SIU in 1972 Pensioner in the port of Curtis L. .___ _ _ _ ___, Baltimore. Southwick, Boatman Simmons was a 69, passed licensed pilot. He sailed in the away August deck department and advanced 11. Born in from mate to relief captain. He Pennsyllived in Maryland. vania, he lo started sailing with the ELLIOTT H. STEVENS Pensioner El- union in 1944 from the port of New York. Brother Southwick liott H. shipped in the deck department. Stevens, 63, He was a resident of Indiana and passed away r etired in October 1990. August 5. Born in VirRAILROAD MARINE ginia, he started bis career with T.W.FORREST the SIU in Pensioner 1966 in the port of Norfolk, Va. T.W. Forrest, Boatman Stevens sailed primari74, died Seply as a launch operator aboard tember 14. boats operated by the AssociaA native of tion of Maryland Pilots . From Virginia, he 1950 to 1956, he served in the joined the U.S. Army. Boatman Stevens SIU in 1960 retired in June 1990. in the port of -----'----~ Norfolk, Va. SIDNEYM. WARMACK B rother Forrest sailed in the deck department. From 1942 to 1946, Pensioner Sidney M. Warmack, he served in the U.S. Navy. 71, passed away August 6. He B rother Forrest began receiving started his career with the SIU in hi s pension in October 1981. 1971 in the port of Philadelphia. l ~ 1 �SEAFARERS LOG NOVEMBER 1995 Heinz Pet Products Company: Heinz Pet Products Products made by UIW members: Pet foods. Brand names include 9-Lives, Skippy, Gravy Train, Ken-L Ration and others. UIW members at Heinz: Involved in all facets of producing and canning pet foods. Distribution: Nationwide Facilities: Two adjacent plants in Terminal Island, Calif. covering 1 million square feet. That's a fact: The popular success of Heinz's pet foods recently led the company to hire hundreds of new UIW members at the Southern California plant. 21 Summary Annual Report for MCS Supplementary Pension Plan This is a summary of the annual report of the MCS Supplementary Pension Plan, EIN 51-6097856, Plan No. 001, for the period January 1, 1994 through December 31, 1994. The annual report has been filed with the Internal Revenue Service, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Basic Financial Statement Benefits under the plan are provided through a trust fund and insurance. Plan expenses were $952, 188. These expenses included $181,280 in administrative expenses and $770,908 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of l,771 persons were participants in or beneficiaries of the plan at the end of the plan year, although not all of these persons had yet earned the right to receive benefits. The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $11,202,695 as of December 31, 1994, compared to $11,963,391 as of January 1, 1994. During the plan year, the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of$760,696. This decrease includes unrealized appreciation and depreciation in the value of the plan assets: that is, the difference between the value of the plan's assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year or the cost of any assets acquired during the year. The plan had a total income of $191,492, including realized losses of $144,485 from the sale of assets and earnings from investments of $335,977. Minimum Funding Standards An actuary's statement shows that enough money was contributed to the plan to keep it funded in accordance with the minimum funding standards of ERIS A. w. hen Seafarers purchase products made and packaged at the Heinz Pet Products plant in Terminal Island, Calif., they not only buy the best pet foods but also put their dollars to work for themselves and their fellow trade unionists. That's because the factory workers at Heinz Pet Products are members of the United Industrial Workers (UIW), a union affiliated with the Seafarers International Union. UIW members handle a number of responsibilities at Heinz, many of which are labor-intensive. They work as canners, forklift drivers, mechanics, quality control inspectors and more. Their duties include stacking cases and moving pallets; maintenance and repair of modem equipment used for cooking, cooling, packaging and labeling; lab-testing of the pet food for proper content (including nutrients); operation of presses which are used to form can-lids; operation of lining machines which produce the remainder of the can; checking to make sure the cans are properly labeled, sealed and dentfree; loading the products for shipment; and other work such as operating the large, continuous cookers. Your Rights to Additional Information UIW member Miro Rosini adjusts a valve at the Heinz plant in Terminal Island, Calif .The UIW is an affiliate of the Seafarers International Union. You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request The items listed below are included in that report: 1. an accountant's report, 2. assets held for investment, 3. transaction in excess of 5 percent of plan assets, 4. insurance information, including sales commissions paid by insurance carriers, 5. actuarial information regarding the funding of the plan, and 6. service provider and trustee information. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of Mr. Lou Delma, who is the plan administrator, at Trustees of the MCS Supplementary Pension Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746; telephone (301) 899-0675. The charge to cover copying costs will be $3.50 for the full annual report or $.10 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administratcr, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan (Trustees of the MCS Supplementary Pension Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746) and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, D.C., or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: Public Disclosure Room, N-5638, Pension and Welfare Benefit Administration, Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20210. Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership's money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretaiytreasmer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been vi o la tio ns of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 520 l Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred toareavailabletomembersatalltimes, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (O'I) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she SHIPPING RIGHTS. A should contact the nearest SIU port member's shipping rights and agent. seniority are protected exclusively EDITORIAL POLICY - THE SEAFARERS LOG. The members should obtain copies of men and the advancement of trade Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individualintheunion,officerormemher. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1%0 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers WG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. 'The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt. but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. C0 NST IT UT I0 NAL this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be di!aiminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furRIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. thering of the American merchant Copies of the SIU constitution are marine with improved employment available in all union halls. All opportunities for seamen and boat- union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are yoluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improperconduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNIONIf at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. �22 SEAFARERS LOG NOVEMBER 1995 Lundeberg School Graduating Classes l >:~T.>~-1 1 LIF EBOAT CL ASS ~..'"'~-'t:·\: Trainee Lifeboat Class 541-Graduating from trainee lifeboat class 541 are (from left, kneeling) Jason Taylor, Neil Bond, James White, Dustin Wilson, Anthony Sumlar, (second row) Bob Boyle (instructor), David Wakeman, Cory Cothren, Sean Connor, Grady Deaton and Theodore Hale. Refri~eration Systems-Marking their completion on "October 6 from the refrigeration systems class are Welding-Completing the welding course on (from left, kneeling) Troy Wood, Gregory Thomas, Henry August 24 are (from left, kneeling) Michael Kovach, Hall, (second row) Eric Malzkuhn (instructor), Ross Marcano Torre, (second row) Jack Caffey Jr., Richard Himebauch, Mark Lawrence, Frank Quebedeaux and FredAlrnojera and Jim Shaffer (instructor). die Hudson. Limited License-completing the two-week curriculum on August 1O which prepares students to take the Designated Duty Engineer (ODE) exam are (from left, kneeling) Tom Gilliland (instructor), Nicholas Conway, Pedro Marrero, George McClendon, (second row) Jim Brown (instructor), Randy Peterson, Richard Strongman, Joseph Whalen, Robert Funk, John Mullen, Alfredo Gonzalez and Henry Brown. Upgraders Lifeboat-Receiving their lifeboat endorsement on September 20 are (from left, kneeling) Carmelo de La Cruz, Rodrigo Jimenez, Steven Blumenthal, Fernando Onativia, Else David, Juan Green, Jaime Racpan, (second row) Noel Bocaya, Mario Ramiro, Robert Daniels, Eric Van Benthuysen, Ronald Whitefield, Theo Niang, Clarence Brown, John Venables, Silvio David and Bob Boyle (instructor). Tankerman OperationsSIU members completing the tankerman operations course on August 24 are (from left, front row) William Perry, Mario Romero, Inocencio Desaville, Bob Carle (instructor), Jerry Smith, Melvin Layner, (second row) Shawn Clark, Carlos Soto, John Hanrahan, Dale Sierra, Paul Szalus, Joseph Carrillo, Mark Stewart, Earl Macom, Jeff Turkus, (third row) Rafael Atehortua, Ervin Bronstein, Hilario Martinez, Tony Carvalho, Napoleon San Martin, Clay Brown, James Cunningham, Harold Caldeira, William Deloach, Michael Fields, Ferdinand Gongora, Rufus Hairston, James Dunne, Levi Rollins, (fourth row) Joel Trotter, Angelo PersicaJr., Bryan Iverson, Blair Humes, Michael Gramer, Spiridon Perdikis, Patrick Rankin,.- James Martin, Cleo Jones, David Garoutte, Roy Blankenship, Ronald Malozi, James Long, Davon McMillan, Forton Martinez and Paul Honeycutt. Tankerman Operations-On September 19, another group of Seafarers graduated from the tankerman operations course. They are (from left, front row) Lawrence Wright, Anthony Heinoldt, Christopher Hyatt, Neville Hughes, Guadalupe Garza, Gloria Holmes, Esther Wilkes, Mohamed Hussein, Inocencio Desaville, Luisito Balatbat, Nelson Morales, Donald Dilley, (second row) Byran Cummings (instructor), Jose Rodriguez, Anthony Garcia, Thomas Milovich, Jared Blavat, Donna DeCesare, Kenneth Long, Steve Kastel, Terry Magno, Karen Denney, Luis Escobar, Sharon Herner, John Knott, (third row) Wilmer McCants, Reginald Williams, Gerald Hyman, John Zepeda, Chartes Mispagel, Felipe Clotter, David McGrew, Shawn Williams, Jesus Gonzaga, Roberto Flauta, Andres Caballero, Tereso Rochez, Amanda Suncin, William Robles, (fourth row) Robert Seim, Rafael Matos, Mark Scardino, Frederick Meier, Curtis Dunlap, Richard Barnhart, Gregory Agren, Carson Jordan and James Willey. �NOVEMBER 1995 SEAFARERS LOG LUNDEBER6 SCHOOL 1995 -1996 UP6RADIN6 COURSE SCHEDULE Steward Upgrading Courses Start The following is the schedule for classes being held in November and December 1995-as well as some courses proposed for January, February and March of 1996-at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship located at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. All programs are geared to improve job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. Please note that 1996 courses listed here are tentative and do not include all classes planned for this period. Future issues of the LOG will carry a more complete listing for next yearJ s upgrading classes. The course schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and-in times of conflict-the nation's security. Please note that students should check in the Saturday before their course's start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. Deck Upgrading Courses Start Course Date Date of Completion Celestial Navigation November6 December15 Radar Observer/Unlimited March18 March22 Third Mate January29 May17 23 Course Date Date of Completion Assistant Cook/Cook and Baker, Chief Cook, Chief Steward November3 January26 Inland Courses Start Course Date Date of Completion Designated Duty Engineer/ Limited License/License Prep. November13 November24 Radar Obsener/lnland November6 November IO Engine Room Familiarization January 8 January19 Safely Specialty Courses Start Course Date Tanker Operations November 6 November 20 Engine Upgrading courses Start·· · January 8 Course Date Date of Completion QMED January 15 March31 Date of Completion December 1 December 15 February 2 NOTICE TO SEAFARERS March18 Welding ····"··Marine ElectriealMBintenancel April12 . · ·· March18 . April26 Diesel Engine Technology March 18 April 12 Power Plant Maintenance February S March15 ... This schedule includes a tentative list of classes for the first three months of 1996. The Lundeberg School is in the process of finalizing its complete course schedule for next year~ As soon as the dates are secured, the schedule will appear in upcoming issues of the Seafarers LOG. Meanwhile, members with any questions regarding future courses may call the school's admissions office at (301) 994-0010, ext. 5202. All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. Ul'GRADING APl'LICATION With this application, COPIES ofyour discharges must be submitted slwwing suffi- cient time to qua.lify yourselffor the course(s) requested. You also must submit a COPY Name _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ (Last) (First) (Middle) Address _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _~~~~~~~~~~~-~ (Street) (Zip Code) (State) (City) Dare of Birth _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Telephone_..__ __.__ _ _ _ __ (Month/Day/Year) (Area Code) Deep Sea Member D of each ofthe following: the first page ofyour union book indicating your department and seniority, your clinic card and the front and back ofyour ..z-card as well as your Lundeberg Sclwol identification card listing the course(s) you have taken and completed. 1he admissions office WJU NOT schedule you until all of the above are received. BEGIN END DATE DATE COURSE Inland Warers Member D Lakes Member D If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security# Book#-------- S e n i o r i t y - - - - - - - - - - - - Department _ _ _ _ _ __ U.S. Citizen: D Yes D No Home Port -~----~~~~- Endorsement(s) or License(s) now h e l d - - - - - - - - - - - - - Are you a graduate of the SHLSS trainee program? DYes DNo If yes, class# - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - DNo DYes Have you attended any SHLSS upgrading courses? If yes, course(s) taken _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? D Yes D No Firefighting: D Yes D No CPR: D Yes D No Primary language s p o k e n - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - LAST VESSEL: - - - - - - - - - - - - - Rating:----Dare On: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Dare O f f : - - - - - - - - - SIGNATURE_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _~DATE _ _ _ _ _ _ __ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. RETURN COMPLETED APPLICATION TO: Lundeberg School of Seamanship, Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075. 11/95 �SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT The summary of the annual report for the MCS Supplementary Pension Plan may be found on page 21 in this issue of the LOG Volume 57, Number 11 November 1995 By Air and by Sea Chief Steward Harris Relishes Dual Careers "Some individuals go through life never pursuing their dreams. But infallowing my dream, I have found inner peace and serenity. " (Editor's note: Chief Steward Marjorie Harris recently submitted the fallowing article and accompanying photo to the Seafarers LOG. "/would like to share a part of my unique and rewarding life with my fellow Seafarers," noted Harris, who sails from the port of Wilmington, N. C.) I have been a flight attendant with United Airlines and a member of the Association of Flight Attendants union for the past 24 years. Although it has been a very rewarding career, I have always longed to do more than just fly. I was raised in a middle-class family in San Pedro, Calif. and spent a lot of time around the sea. Many a weekend was spent sailing on my family's yacht. In retrospect, I realize those roots played a major role in what I would achieve later in life. Sailing with my father became second nature to me, and my father, by the way, was a sailmaker and an expert yachtsman who won many trophies for his sailing ability. I also occasionally used to hang around the docks with my father in Southern California as a child, watching the big ships ,, , ; come in. I always wondered what it would be like to work on one. More than once, I daydreamed about someday pulling into the harbor in Long Beach, Calif. riding on one of those big ships. But I've heard the saying, "Someday my ship will come in and I'll be at the airport!" I think it must have been written for me, because I do spend so much time at airports-and that's no place to catch a ship. Many years passed since I began working at United, but I didn't forget my seafaring dream. In fact, for quite a while, I lived it vicariously through my brother, Charles Morrison. He graduated from the California Maritime Academy and obtained a position with Sabine Towing (now Kirby). He eventually advanced to master. Finally, in the early 1990s, I decided it was time to act before it was too late. With the help of friends, I obtained my merchant mariner's document, and in 1992-at age 50-I shipped out as a member of the steward department. In order to do this, I took a four-month leave of absence from United Airlines and ventured off to my first ship, the SS Buyer. That day remains a vivid memory, something I never will forget. After several flights (starting in Long Beach), I finally arrived in Southport, N.C. It was late in the evening when I arrived. Never thinking that I would be boarding the ship by any other means than a gangway, I was in for one big surprise! Manulani from May to September. Since I began my new career with the SIU, I have worked on ships operated by The first lesson I learned Matson, OMI and IMC. I also was, don't ever wear a skirt or sailed on the cruise ship SS Indedress when meeting a ship. Inpendence. stead of climbing a gangway, I I have finally fulfilled my had to take a 30-minute ride on inner need to go to sea. It is in a rolling and surging launch. my blood, and I believe I will alThen I had to leap from the ways have this need to ride the launch onto the pilot ladder, in big ships. the black of night. I continue to take leaves from Despite the difficult start, the United every year. Sailing is a rest of that trip was great. I great change of pace fi'mn fly i:ng, reca11 feeling apprehensive, wondering if I could handle this and no matter how many times I new responsibility. But my ship- go to sea, nature is still breathtaking when you're out there. mates were wonderful, and Keeping up with both careers everything worked out. has been challenging, but very After accruing enough sea worthwhile. Some individuals time to obtain my membership go through life never pursuing book in the SIU, I traveled to ...;t_,,-' the Paul Hall Center's Seafarers their dreams. But in following my dream, I have found inner ~_,_ .., Harry Lundeberg School of ,..,,..;;;;;r-:_,......~~Seamanship . I upgraded to chief peace and serenity. ~-"""""-_:-:. ..J cook. Later, I upgraded to chief I have seen the sea when it is steward, and I am scheduled to stormy and wild, when it is take the tanker operation/safety quiet and serene, when it is dark course this month. and moody. And in all its This year I worked on the moods, I see myself. Marjorie Harris (center) has found happiness in dual careers as a flight attendant with United Airlines and a chief steward with the SIU. Above: Harris joins Chief Cook Jim Williamson (left) and Chief Steward Gerald Figg in the galley of the Manulani just prior to signing off the Matson ship. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 1990-1999 Description An account of the resource Volumes LII-LXI Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993; Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource November 1995 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES NUEVO SAN JUAN CREWMEMBERS HELP KIDS’ DREAMS COME TRUE CONGRESS READY TO REVIEW BILL ALLOWING ALASKAN OIL EXPORTS ABOARD U.S. SHIPS SENATE O.K.’S FUNDS FOR U.S. SHIP BILL SWEENEY ELECTED AFL-CIO PRESIDENT MTD DELEGATES CALL FOR PASSAGE OF MARITIME REVITALIZATION EFFORT NEW USCG TANKERMAN REGULATIONS AFFECT ABS, PUMPMEN AND INLAND TANKERMEN DELTA QUEEN HEAD DENOUNCES ATTACKS ON U.S. -FLAG PASSENGER SHIP LAWS SIU OPPOSES FEES ATTACHED TO TANKERMAN ENDORSEMENTS SEAFARERS AID V.I. HURRICANE VICTIMS BARER CALLS JONES ACT ATTACKS ‘DANGEROUS AND FLAWED’ SEAFARER SURVICES HURRICAN ABOARD 42-FOOT SAILBOAT SUGAR WORKERS END MONTH-LONG STRIKE COMPANY REMOES GIVEBACK DEMANDS NEW SIU OFFICE OPENS IN PORT EVERGLADES, FLA. SAFETY DRILLS: STANDARD FARE ABOARD SIU-CREWED RANGER HIGMAN SIU MEMBERS RATIFY THREE-YEAR PACT ACTION BY ALTON BELLE SEAFARERS SAVES RIVERBOAT RARE PEARL HARBOR CALL MARKS SS INDEPENDENCE V-J DAY TRIP SAM HOUSTON CREW FETED FOR TWO YEARS OF SAFETY ABOARD THE LONG LINES, SEAFARERS MAKE HISTORY FOR LONGEST CABLE LAY AFL-CIO MARITIME TRADES DEPARTMENT CONVENTION DELEGATES HEAR OFFICIALS ANNOUNCE THEIR SUPPORT FOR U.S. SHIP BILL AFL-CIO MARITIME TRADES DEPARTMENT CONVENTION UNIONISTS FIGHT FOR JOB SECURITY SACCO, ZENGA, PECQUEX ELECTED TO MTD POSTS BY AIR AND BY SEA CHIEF STEWARD HARRIS RELISHES DUAL CAREERS Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 11/01/1995 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 57, No. 11 1995 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/e986caaca7f51c182d48da8da326d4b0.pdf 84e47c795ea6bfbe7b21eccfc29f2e64 PDF Text Text Volume 57, Number 10 October 1995 • I • • I • • • I ID • Around the country, Seafarers are drumming up grassroots support for a national maritime revitalization bill. Above, Mobile, Ala. SIU members and local citizens sign petitions to Congress urging immediate enactment of the legislation. Page 3. An Injury to One Is an Injury to All Inside II Final Vote Looms On Bill to Export AK Oil on U.S. Tankers Page2 ... , ..' ..4 ./ ~~\.! DEMOCRACY t ;." \..o' ~ ,.,.. ,,,. /,~ \ \'.: IN . ·'' S o"' (,Y 1 Orgulf Tug Cooks Achieve High Marks At Lundeberg School Inland Culinary Class Page5 1 - po~\" foe~~ 1fi -~ I\ ~fllr . ·~\G~ t~ ~ Seafarers join in an AFL-CIO protest of the brutal practices of the Nigerian junta. Protesting the illegal imprisonment of officers of Nigeria's unions are Seafarers Auja L. Rogers, Steven A. Johnson, Justic Vierra, Eric Gerstmann and Charles Chambers. Page 6. �OCTOBER 1995 SEAFARERS LOG 3 Members Push -For Passage Of U.S. Ship Bill Joining the fight to get maritime revitalization legislation passed are Seafarers (left to right) Kurt Jacobsen, Brian Gelaude and Bob Brown, who are writing personal letters to their representatives and senators. AFL-CIO Calls on Congress To Retain Cabotage Law The AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department (MTD) is launching a grassroots campaign to reject any effort to amend or repeal the nation's cabotage law. The MTD's action follows the passage of a resolution on the issue by the AFL-CIO executive council. During the August meeting of the national labor federation's executive council in Chicago, SIU President Michael Sacco introduced a resolution that called the attacks on the 1920 maritime cargo trade law "a new tack in the campaign to get rid of American workers." (The executive council, which is made up of the president and secretary-treasurer as well as 33 vice presidents, oversees the activities of the federation between biennial conventions. Sacco has served as an executive council vice president since 1991.) The resolution noted the concem of American workers that any effort brought before Congress to gut the Jones Act (as the cabotage law is known) would lead "to an incursion of foreign interests and foreign workers exempt from U.S. protections in all forms of domestic transportationincluding rail, trucking and air." (The Jones Act states that only U.S.-crewed, U.S.-builtandU.S.owned vessels may move cargo from one domestic port to another. The cabotage law applies directly to water or combined waternand transportation.) Sacco raised the issue with the council following press reports that moves were under way to weaken the law. He advised the council that attempts to weaken the maritime cabotage law would inevitably weaken the nation's other transportation industries. "These efforts to destroy the U .S . domestic transportation work force are being led and funded by American companies with foreign-flag shipping interests and foreign workers hired" from nation's where the workforce are among the most exploited, the resolution stated. "These forces choose to ignore the fact that there are vital national security and economic factors that have long ensured that Cabotage Laws Are as Old as the Nation While the Jones Act was passed by Congress 75 years ago, the United States has had cabotage laws to protect its commerce and waterways since the first Congress met in 1789. Cabotage comes from the French word caboter, meaning to go from cape to cape. Cabotage laws are not unique to the United States. A 1993 Maritime Administration study revealed that 44 maritime nations have some type of cabotage law designed to limited the movement of cargo within its boundaries to vessels flying the flag of that nation. Among those countries are Australia, Finland, Germany, Japan, Sweden and South Korea. Knowing that the new nation of the United States depended on trade to survive, nine of the 27 laws passed by the ftrst Congress in its initial year dealt with maritime issues. Since then, Congress has worked to keep America a strong maritime nation. What follows are a series of cabotage laws passed by Congress since it first met in 1789: 1789 -Tariff act calling for a 10 percent reduction in duties on goods imported on U.S.-flag vessels passed. 1791 - Legislation enacted requiring U.S.-ftag vessels be .built by U.S. citizens in American shipyards and commanded by an Amencan. 1793 - Congress requires all vessels in the domestic coastal trades be U.S.-flag, U.S.-owned vessels. 1793 - Foreign-flag fishing vessels prohibited from landing any part of their catch in U.S. ports. 1817- Goods carried from one U.S. port to another by a foreign vessel are subject to forfeiture. 1866 - Amended 1817 law to prohibit foreign vessels from taking cargo from one U.S. port to a foreign port, then have it shipped to another U.S. port. 1874- Prohibited use of foreign-built fishing vessels In domestic fishing. 1886- Prohibited foreign vessels from carrying passengers from one U.S. port to another. 1892 - Foreign vessels could regist~r under l!.S. flag only if o~ers would build an equal amount of tonnage 1n U.S. shipyards. Also proh1b1ted formerly foreign-owned vessels from trading in U.S. domestic commerce. 1893- Reinforced 1866 amendment against split voyages after the U.S. Court of Appeals overturned the act. 1898 - All vessels engaged in domestic trade must be _built in U.S. shipyards to American specifications. Owners must be Americans. 1920 - Jones Act passed, limiting movement of domestic cargo to U.S.-owned, U.S.-crewed, U.S.-flag vessels. transportation within the physical confines of the United States has been in the hands of American companies and workers." Additionally, the resolution pointed out that American workers would be "threatened by any legislation which aims to replace workers earning U.S. wage and benefit levels with workers from underdeveloped nations who would be exempt from the nation's labor laws and protections." Immediately following the executive council meeting, Sacco, in his role as MTD president, called on the department's 40 national unions representing 8.5 million workers in maritime-related industries to contact their members of Congress. Sounds Alarm Seafarers, pensioners, their families and friends are plunging into the fight by urging Congress to enact maritime revitalization legislation. Through l etters , telephone calls , petitions and per sonal meeting s, union members, retirees and others are telling members of the House of Representatives and Senate to pass legislation that would provide funds to help operate up to 50 militarily useful U.S.-flag containerships over the next I 0 years. At hearings in both the House and Senate, the SIU has stated its support for maritime revitalization legislation. Meanwhile, SIU members have found other ways to let Congress know the importance of the U.S.-flag merchant marine. National Security Concerns George Pino, a 21-year member of the SIU, pointed out to his elected officials that America cannot depend on foreign seamen to carry U.S. troops and supplies into a war zone. He recalled how some foreign crews refused to enter the Persian Gulf during Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm. "It comes down to who is sailing the vessel. The companies don't have control of a ship when it is at sea because it is in the hands of the captain and crew on board," the recertified steward from San Francisco told his senators and representative. "If the vessel captain and crew don't want to get involved, it won' t matter what the telex from the company in New York says," noted Pino. QMED Egidio Ramos also listed national security and support for the American armed forces as a major reason for his legislators to enact a maritime revitalization bill. "I don't know what seamen from other countries will do, but I know this," the engine department member told his members of Congress. "In case of war, I'll volunteer for my country. "If I have to go, fine! If I have to die for my country, fine!" Besides writing and making phone calls, Ramos also has organized his neighborhood to do the same in support of the U.S. merchant marine. "When I explained the situation to them, they wanted to help. The response has been great." Not only have Seafarers from the port of Mobile, Ala. written to their members of Congress, they also have taken the campaign to the public. During the Southwest Alabama Central Labor Council's Labor Day festivities at the city' s fairgrounds, Seafarers manned a booth with information about maritime revitaHzation legislation. They also provided petitions calling for the enactment of the measure for fellow trade unionists and the general public to sign. More than 500 signatures were gathered on the petitions and nearly 1,500 letters were written, signed and addressed during the day to members of Congress from their constituents in Alabama, Florida and Mississippi. '"Sure I'll talk to my congressman' is what we kept hearing all day," recalled Mobile Port Agent Dave Carter. "People didn't realize American jobs would be given away to foreigners if this bill isn't passed. They wanted to do all they could to help." Members Write at Sea Seafarers aboard ships are doing their part to pass the legislation. "I took a copy of a letter I wrote aboard the Sea-Land Hawaii and posted it for the crewmembers to read," stated Recertified Steward Robert Hess of New York. "It generated a lot of interest because I told my legislators that not just my job was at stake, but other people in this country also depend on U.S.-flag shipping. I urged the others on the ship to write as well," added the 25-year union member. Recent ships' minutes received by the SIU contracts department have announced letter-writing campaigns at sea. Among the SIU-crewed vessels engaged in the efforts to have Congress pass a maritime revitalization program are the Guayama. and the Sea-Land Trader. Both the House and Senate have separate bills dealing with the 10-year, $1 billion program. Both measures call for funds to come from the Department of Transportation budget on an annual basis. Those companies receiving the federal funds would make their vessels available to the Defense Department in times of national emergencies. Sacco sounded the alarm that there are interests trying to introduce legislation that would repeal the 75-year-old law. "If enacted, this legislation will reduce American jobs in shipping, shipbuilding and related industrial pursuits," he added. He noted the importance of educating new members of Congress about why the act is needed. "It is vital that we do not let up and that we continue working to keep the Jones Act an important part of the country's economic and national security," he stated. While no bill has yet been offered in Congress, others also are involved in the fight to keep the Jones Act. A coalition of coastal and inland shipping companies has been lobbying Congress that the law is essential because of the many benefits it bestows on the country. Among those benefits are the creation of thousands of jobs in the maritime field as well as related industries, generation of millions of dollars through corporate and personal taxes at the federal , state and local levels and maintenance of a strong national defense with U.S. vessels and shipyards available in times of crisis . It also insures that thousands of coastal and inland communities are not left vulnerable to marine accidents and environmental damages caused by foreign-flag , foreign-crewed vessels operating under safety During a Labor Day celebration, Mobile, Ala. Seafarers take the laws lower than those used by campaign to pass a U.S. ship bill to the general public who signed U.S.-flag vessels. petitions for enactment of the legislation. �OCTOBER 1995 SEAFARERS LOG 3 Members Push -For Passage Of U.S. Ship Bill Joining the fight to get maritime revitalization legislation passed are Seafarers (left to right) Kurt Jacobsen, Brian Gelaude and Bob Brown, who are writing personal letters to their representatives and senators. AFL-CIO Calls on Congress To Retain Cabotage Law The AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department (MTD) is launching a grassroots campaign to reject any effort to amend or repeal the nation's cabotage law. The MTD's action follows the passage of a resolution on the issue by the AFL-CIO executive council. During the August meeting of the national labor federation's executive council in Chicago, SIU President Michael Sacco introduced a resolution that called the attacks on the 1920 maritime cargo trade law "a new tack in the campaign to get rid of American workers." (The executive council, which is made up of the president and secretary-treasurer as well as 33 vice presidents, oversees the activities of the federation between biennial conventions. Sacco has served as an executive council vice president since 1991.) The resolution noted the concem of American workers that any effort brought before Congress to gut the Jones Act (as the cabotage law is known) would lead "to an incursion of foreign interests and foreign workers exempt from U.S. protections in all forms of domestic transportationincluding rail, trucking and air." (The Jones Act states that only U.S.-crewed, U.S.-builtandU.S.owned vessels may move cargo from one domestic port to another. The cabotage law applies directly to water or combined water/land transportation.) Sacco raised the issue with the council following press reports that moves were under way to weaken the law. He advised the council that attempts to weaken the maritime cabotage law would inevitably weaken the nation's other transportation industries. ''These efforts to destroy the U.S. domestic transportation work force are being led and funded by American companies with foreign-flag shipping interests and foreign workers hired" from nation's where the workforce are among the most exploited, the resolution stated. ''These forces choose to ignore the fact that there are vital national security and economic factors that have long ensured that Cabotage Laws Are as Old as the Nation While the Jones Act was passed by Congress 75 years ago, the United States has had cabotage laws to protect its commerce and waterways since the first Congress met in 1789. Cabotage comes from the French word caboter, meaning to go from cape to cape. Cabotage laws are not unique to the United States. A 1993 Maritime Administration study revealed that 44 maritime nations have some type of cabotage faw designed to limited the movement of cargo within its boundaries to vessels flying the flag of that nation. Among those countries are Australia, Finland, Germany, Japan, Sweden and South Korea. Knowing that the new nation of the United States depended on trade to survive, nine of the 27 laws passed by the first Congress in its initial year dealt with maritime issues. Since then, Congress has worked to keep America a strong maritime nation. What foHows are a series of cabotage laws passed by Congress since it first met in 1789: 1789 -Tariff act calling for a 10 percent reduction in duties on goods imported on U.S. -flag vessels passed. 1791 - Legislation enacted requiring U.S.-flag vessels be built by U.S. citizens in American shipyards and commanded by an American. 1793- Congress requires all vessels In the domestic coastal trades be U.S.-flag, U.S.-owned vessels. 1793 - Foreign-flag fishing vessels prohibited from landing any part of their catch in U.S. ports. 1817- Goods carried from one U.S. port to another by a foreign vessel are subject to forfeiture. 1866 - Amended 1817 law to prohibit foreign vessels from taking cargo from one U.S. port to a foreign port, then have it shipped to another U.S. port. 1874-Prohibited use of foreign-built fishing vessels In domestic fishing. 1886- Prohibited foreign vessels from carrying passengers from one U.S. port to another. 1892 - Foreign vessels could regist~r under l!.S. flag only if o-.y~ers would build an equal amount of tonnage m U.S. shipyards. Also prohibited formerly foreign-owned vessels from trading in U.S. domestic commerce. 1893- Reinforced 1866 amendment against split voyages after the U.S. Court of Appeals overturned the act. 1898 - All vessels engaged in domestic trade must be .built in U.S. shipyards to American specifications. Owners must be Americans. 1920 - Jones Act passed, limiting movement of domestic cargo to U.S.-owned, u.s.-crewed, U.S.-flag vessels. transportation within the physical confines of the United States has been in the hands of American companies and workers." Additionally, the resolution pointed out that American workers would be "threatened by any legislation which aims to replace workers earning U.S. wage and benefit levels with workers from underdeveloped nations who would be exempt from the nation's labor laws and protections." Immediately following the executive council meeting, Sacco, in his role as MID president, called on the department's 40 national unions representing 8.5 million workers in maritime-related industries to contact their members of Congress. Sounds Alarm Seafarers, pensioners, their families and friends are plunging into the fight by urging Congress to enact maritime revitalization legislation. Through letters , telephone calls , petitions and personal meetings , union members, retirees and others are telling members of the House of Representatives and Senate to pass legislation that would provide funds to help operate up to 50 militarily useful U.S.-flag containerships over the next 10 years. At hearings in both the House and Senate, the SIU has stated its support for maritime revitalization legislation. Meanwhile, SIU members have found other ways to let Congress know the importance of the U.S.-flag merchant marine. National Security Concerns George Pino, a 21-year member of the SIU, pointed out to his elected officials that America cannot depend on foreign seamen to carry U.S. troops and supplies into a war zone. He recalled how some foreign crews refused to enter the Persian Gulf during Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm. "It comes down to who is sailing the vessel. The companies don't have control of a ship when it is at sea because it is in the hands of the captain and crew on board," the recertified steward from San Francisco told his senators and representative. "If the vessel captain and crew don't want to get involved, it won't matter what the telex from the company in New York says," noted Pino. QMED Egidio Ramos also listed national security and support for the American armed forces as a major reason for his legislators to enact a maritime revitalization bill. "I don't know what seamen from other countries will do, but I know this," the engine department member told his members of Congress. "In case of war, I'll volunteer for my country. "If I have to go, fine! If I have to die for my country, fine!" Besides writing and making phone calls, Ramos also has organized his neighborhood to do the same in support of the U.S. merchant marine. ''When I explained the situation to them, they wanted to help. The response has been great." Not only have Seafarers from the port of Mobile, Ala. written to their members of Congress, they also have taken the campaign to the public. Du ri ng the Southwe st Alabama Central Labor Council's Labor Day festivities at the city ' s fairgrounds, Seafarers manned a booth with information about maritime revitaHzation legislation. They also provided petitions calling for the enactment of the measure for fellow trade unionists and the general public to sign. More than 500 signatures were gathered on the petitions and nearly 1,500 letters were written, signed and addressed during the day to members of Congress from their constituents in Alabama, Florida and Mississippi. "'Sure I'll talk to my congressman' is what we kept hearing all day," recalled Mobile Port Agent Dave Carter. "People dido' t realize American jobs would be given away to foreigners if this bill isn't passed. They wanted to do all they could to help." Members Write at Sea Seafarers aboard ships are doing their part to pass the legislation. "I took a copy of a letter I wrote aboard the Sea-Land Hawaii and posted it for the crewmembers to read," stated Recertified Steward Robert Hess of New York. "It generated a lot of interest because I told my legislators that not just my job was at stake, but other people in this country also depend on U.S.-flag shipping. I urged the others on the ship to write as well," added the 25-year union member. Recent ships' minutes received by the SIU contracts department have announced letter-writing campaigns at sea. Among the SIU-crewed vessels engaged in the efforts to have Congress pass a maritime revitalization program are the··Guayama and the Sea-Land Trader. Both the House and Senate have separate bills dealing with the 10-year, $1 billion program. Both measures call for funds to come from the Department of Transportation budget on an annual basis. Those companies receiving the federal funds would make their vessels available to the Defense Department in times of national emergencies. Sacco sounded the alarm that there are interests trying to introduce legislation that would repeal the 75-year-old law. "If enacted, this legislation will reduce American jobs in shipping, shipbuilding and related industrial pursuits," he added. He noted the importance of educating new members of Congress about why the act is needed. "It is vital that we do not let up and that we continue working to keep the Jones Act an important part of the country's economic and na~ional s~urity ," he stated. ~ile no bill has yet been offered m Congress, others also are involved in the fi~~t to keep the Jone~ Act. A c?~tton of coas.tal and mland sh1ppmg comparues has been lobbymg Congress that the law is essential because of the many benefits it bestows on the country. Among those benefits are the creation of thousands of jobs in the maritime field as well as related industries, generation of millions of dollars through corporate and personal taxes at the federal, state and local levels and maintenance of a strong national defense with U.S. vessels and shipyards available in times of crisis . It also insures that thousands of coastal and inland communities are not left vulnerable to marine accidents and environmental damages caused by foreign-flag, foreign-crewed vessels operating under safety During a Labor Day celebration, Mobile, Ala. Seafarers take the laws lower than those used by campaign to pass a U.S. ship bill to the general public who signed U.S.-flag vessels. petitions for enactment of the legislation. �4 SEAFARERS LOG OCTOBER 1995 SIU, Shipping Cos. Urge Coast Guard To Reinstate Commitment Letters Representatives of the SIU and Seafarers-contracted companies last month urged the U.S. Coast Guard to reinstate a government regulation requiring an individual to obtain proof of a commitment of employment as a crewmember of a U.S.-flag vessel (known as a letter of commitment or letter of intent) before he or she could apply for a merchant mariner's document, also known as a z-card. The Coast Guard stopped requiring letters of commitment on July 5, 1994, thereby ending a practice that existed for 58 years. However, the agency is reviewing comments from organizations affected by the rule change (the comment period ended September 30). According to Coast Guard data, the number of individuals who have applied for z-cards since the letter-of-commitment requirement was lifted last year has soared by 100 percent. Yet other U.S. government data reveals that the number of shipboard entry-level jobs within the industry is declining. During a hearing September 5 at Coast Guard headquarters in Washington-conducted so that interested parties were ensured a chance to submit commentsSIU Executive Vice President Joseph Sacco outlined the reasons why the SIU believes it is vital for the Coast Guard to reinstate the letter-of-commitment requirement. First, he noted that thousands of individuals are buying z-cards who have virtually no chance of securing employment in the industry. There has been a decrease in entry-level jobs (partly due to shipboard technological changes), yet those are the only positions for which a vast majority of the new z-card holders would qualify. Additionally, Sacco pointed out that the influx of newly documented people has created a significant increase in the work load at maritime union hiring halls throughout the country. At the same time, it has harmed the industry by creating a misleading ratio of z-card holders to shipboard jobs. Finally, he noted that the fee for merchant mariner documents has not acted as a deterrent for individuals frivolously soliciting z-cards. This is evidenced by the large number of individuals with no realistic hope of employment on U.S.-flag vessels who have applied for and obtained merchant mariner documents. Sacco described the letter-ofcommitment requirement as "a simple procedure that brought stability to the industry. It was neither burdensome to administer nor costly to execute. "The current system is not working," he continued. "It is placing unnecessary burdens on the industry, causing frustration and anger among applicants and creating skewed data for the nation' s defense planners." Also testifying in favor of reinstating the letter of intent were Byron Kelley, vice president of the SIU' s Great Lakes region; Bill Eglinton, director of vocational education at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education; Bob Rogers, assistant vice president, Interocean Ugland Management Corp.; David Shultz, vice president, American Steamship Co.; Michael Roberts vice presidentgovernment relations, Crowley Maritime Corp.; and Tai Simpkins, executive director of the AFL-CIO Maritime Committee. No one spoke in support of the current system, in which a virtually limitless numberof individuals may purchase z-cards, regardless of the availability of entry-level shipboard jobs. Admiral James Card and Captain Kenneth Ervin comprised the Coast Guard panel that listened to statements and periodically asked questions of the various speakers. In a written statement sub- mitted to the Coast Guard, the SIU noted that the agency's "purpose in eliminating the letter of commitment condition for z-card seekers was to 'relieve applicants and employers of an unnecessary regulatory burden."' Yet, the termination of the requirement has proven problematic for maritime unions, shipowners, government defense logistics specialists and aspiring seamen, the Seafarers pointed out. "Since the letter of commitment requirement was lifted, the SIU's halls have been swamped with an influx of walk-in traffic of individuals with newly obtained z-cards. Additionally, the volume of calls received from individuals seeking employment on U.S.-flag ships has escalated dramatically" but without a corresponding increase in job opportunities, the SIU said in its statement. In addition to the significantly increased work load at the hiring halls, the removal of the letter-ofcommitment requirement has led to frustration on the part of new z-card holders who are attempting to enter an industry in which a limited number of jobs exists. ''There has been a major surge (of new applicants) in the Great Lakes region since the requirement for a letter-of-commitment was dropped," said Kelley. "Many of the new applicants aren't U.S. citizens and don't speak English. In many cases, they can't fill out basic forms, let alone understand spoken orders of ships' officers (as required by U.S. law)." Rogers said that shipping companies suffer under the new system. "The old way was not burdensome, and the letters allowed me to monitor some of the applicant flow into the industry," he said. He further noted that, while SIU-contracted companies feel secure in knowing that Seafarers who take courses at the Paul Hall Center "will be okay on ships," there also are non-union, un- SIU Executive Vice President Joseph Sacco (standing) tells a U.S. Coast Guard panel the reasons why the union strongly believes the letter-of-commitment requirement must be reinstated. skilled applicants for shipboard jobs who pose a potential safety risk. "In many cases, these individuals (who previously contacted Rogers to secure letters of commitment) knew nothing about the merchant marine. I at least had a chance to explain the realities of this industry to them. But whatever took place, I had an opportunity to be involved." S f C a ety oncerns Schultz expressed concern that, with no letter-of-commitment requirement and no need to demonstrate skill or experience in order to secure a z-card, "people who are totally unskilled will be flooded into the system. They are dangerous to themselves and to the environment. There is no room for the untrained, yet they can claim discrimination if they aren't allowed to ship." Simpkins touched on a separate problem that has been compounded by the rule change. "Some foreigners go to the hiring halls holding AB or QMED ratings because the (U.S.) Coast Guard counts time spent on foreign-flag ships (toward securing ratings in the U.S.). They may not have the skill or the training needed to sail on a U.S.-flag ship, but there's no safeguard to stop them." Roberts supported a point made in the SIU' s statement when he said that port security is compromised by the present systern for issuing z-cards. "If merchant mariner documents are issued on request, there is no security in the ports," he stated. "That identification (often) is all that's needed to get through the gates." The union noted that, while some individuals with newly acquired z-cards "seem sincere about desiring shipboard employment, there are many who appear less committed to seafaring work and more interested in securing a form of bona fide and well-recognized identification." Misleading Data Another concern addressed by Sacco (as well as in the union's written statement) is that American defense logistics analysts may be misled by current Coast Guard data. The result could prove devastating in a time of national emergency, because defense planners could not safely rely on Coast Guard estimates of documented mariners in planning sealift operations. ''The new system for issuing z-cards causes problems for the nation's defense planners," Sacco said. "They must determine how much sealift capacity is necessary in times of national emergency, war or conflict. "They must estimate the available pool of seagoing labor which would be needed to man the existing commercial fleet, the military' s sealift fleet and any ships broken out of the Ready Reserve Force (RRF) .... It would not be wise to count among those qualified to work on U.S.-flag vessels in a crisis, individuals who purchased their z-cards but who have never stepped foot on a ship." Hurricane Marilyn Interrupts Shipping SIU UIW-Division Mentbers On St. Thoinas Lose Hoines Hurricane Marilyn last month left unscathed most Seafarers who live in the San Juan, P.R. area while unleashing its full fury on the nearby U.S. Virgin Islands, where thousands of members of the SIU-affiliated United Industrial Workers (UIW) reside. Although Marilyn had winds of greater than 115 mph, it caught many residents of Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands off guard. The devastating storm came one week after Hurricane Luis, a near catastrophic storm which was predicted to strike the region but veered away from it. Marilyn gathered power during its final stages and slammed into St. Thomas before moving over to St. Croix and St. John in the Virgin Islands, then Puerto Rico. Some gusts reportedly were as forceful as 200 mph. On Thursday, September 14, following a warning about Hurricane Marilyn by the National Weather Service, the U.S. Coast Guard shut down the port of San Juan for the second time in 10 days. Seafarers React Seafarers in San Juan sprang into action by securing the SIU hall and assisting in operations to secure the port. San Juan Port Agent Steve Ruiz noted that SIUcontracted Crowley American Transport directed many of its docked ships to sail (to avoid the storm), discontinued all cargo operations and secured the remaining vessels in port. The Seafarers-crewed SeaLand Shining Star was docked in Members of the SIU-affiliated United Industrial Workers are among the tens of thou;;,td;~fvc1ti~~~~~n San Juan when the emergency St. Thomas who literally are picking up the pieces in the aftermath of Hurricane Marilyn. Above: A man . walks through the rubble that was once a street in Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, two days after Hurricane Continued on page 7 Marilyn devastated the U.S. Virgin Islands with storm gusts as foreceful as 200 mph. �OCTOBER 1995 SEAFARERS LOG 5 Drgulf Cooks Pass Culinary Course with Flying Colors The first class of Orgulf Towing cooks graduated from the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship's inland culinary course with high marks. "These members were very well motivated and it showed in their work," Chef Allen Sherwin said of Nancy Avery, Helen Brown, Pam Johnston and Martha Kell, who on September 15 completed two weeks of intensive training. Sherwin, who oversees the classroom and galley training of steward department members upgrading at the school, noted the students performed well on all their tests. "We concentrated our pro- gramtoprovideasmuchinformation as possible in the two-week period," Sherwin stated. "They met all the challenges and scored very well on their tests." Included in the course were sessions on menu management, food utilization, nutritional cooking as well as hands-on training in the school's lecture/demonstration galley. The four cooks also received certificates in sanitation for suecessfully completing assignmen ts and testing on such subjects as food-borne illnesses, personal hygiene and proper health practices in the galley. The National Restaurant Association recognizes the certificate, which Towboaters Bullish on Benefits of Upgrading Following the completion of their two-week inland culinary course at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship, the four Orgulf cooks planned to return to their towboats to tell fellow boatmen about the facility in Piney Point, Md. This was the first time any of the cooks bad seen and studied at the school, located on the campus of the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. "I thought this was just for deep sea members," stated Pam Johnston of Benton, Ky. "I did not know their was so much here for all of us who work on towboats. ''The school provides a very good opportunity for anyone to learn more about our industry." Martha Kell said she would definitely tell her fellow Orgulf boatmen about the school. "When they ask me what I got out of this, I plan to tell them how they can upgrade and better themselves by coming here," the Edwardsville, Ill. cook told the Seafarers LOG. Adding to that, Nancy Avery of Baton Rouge, La. said, ''I' 11 tell them they can learn a lot here. The union is there ready to help you and this is a great example. "I would like to spend more time here and will return when I can," she remarked. The fourth member of the crew, Helen Brown from St. Charles, Mo., also commented that she plans to study again at the Lundeberg School. ''This has so much for everyone. I will come hack when I can.'' New Contract Approved By Cape Fear Seafarers isgivenonlyafterpassingteston all these subjects. "Overall, they were a very group of students," Sherwin said. Adding his praise of the quartet was Tony Sacco, SIU assistant vice president for inland waterways and Great Lakes, who worked with the cooks on unionrelated matters. "We reviewed basic information on how to handle grievances aboard their boats," Sacco said. "The cooks serve as the union delegates on their vessels, so it is important for them to know what to do. "Also, we reviewed how they could help their crewmembers fill out union forms for health and pension purposes." Additionally, the cooks studied outside the galley, learning how computers can help in ordering stores and planning menus. Speaking for the Orgulf cooks, Chef Allen Sherwin, center, oversees training for the first course specifically designed for Orgulf towboat cooks. From the left are Pam Johnston, Helen Brown, Sherwin, Martha Kell and Nancy Avery, who show off some of the goods they baked. Johnston said they all found the training "very informative. All of us learned a lot." The idea for the class originated after a meeting of the school's Inland Advisory Board, where representatives from the facility, union and contracted companies meet to discuss courses that can help SIU boatmen. Orgulf officials worked with the school to create a program for the cooks that met the needs of the boatmen and company as well as fit within the crewmembers' work schedules. Additional classes are being planned for Orgulf cooks. Information on these sessions will be available through SIU Representative Becky Sleeper at the union's St. Louis hall. Red Circle Crews Ratify 3-Year Pact SIU boatmen navigating three offshore tugs between ports in the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean ratified a new agreement with Red Circle that guarantees them improved wages, benefits and working conditions into 1998. Representatives for the New Orleans-based company and the SIU held negotiations in the Louisiana city early this summer. The pact, which began June 30, includes-for the first time---outpatien t medical care for the spouses and dependents of SIU members who sail aboard the three offshore tugs. The Seafarers also will receive wage increases throughout the life of the contract. Delegates to the negotiations included Chief Cook John Ridley and AB Alex Miraglia. They were joined by SIU Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey and New Orleans Patrolman Steve Judd. "Negotiations went very well. The SIU negotiating committee for the new Red Circle contract included (from left) New Orleans Patrolman Steve Judd, Chief Cook John Ridley, AB Alex Miraglia, VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey and New Orleans Port Agent Joe Perez. I really enjoyed being part of the negotiating team," recalled Chief Cook Ridley. "Everyone really worked together to get a very good contract. We are all happy with the new agreement," Ridley added. "Everyone came out ahead," statedCorgey. "Itisafaircontract that keeps our members up with the industry." The Allison C. and Theresa F. haul phosphate rock from Tampa, Fla. to New Orleans; the Gale B. transports the mineral from Tampa to Puerto Rico. Phosphate rock is extracted from the bottom of the ocean floor and transported by Red Circle tugs and barges to refineries in New Orleans and Puerto Rico, where it is turned into fertilizer. Hall Center Exhibit Adds Two Posters Members of the SIU negotiating committee for the new three-year agreement with Cape Fear Towing include (from left) Engineer Jerry Hutto, Captain Ed Green, Norfolk Port Agent Mike Paladino, Engineer Don Todd and Deckhand David Register. The union negotiating committee for Cape Fear Towing Seafarers has announced ratification by the members who sail aboard the harbor docking tugs of a three-year agreement, effective September 1. Serving on the committee were Engineer Jerry Hutto, Captain Ed Green, Engineer Don Todd, Deckhand David Register and SIU Norfolk, Va. Port Agent Mike Paladino. The committee noted the addition of outpatient medical care for spouses and dependents was a big factor in the approval of the new pact. This is the first time that families of SIU members have received such coverage under a contract with Cape Fear Towing. "The outpatient care will really help the guys with families," Paladino told the Seafarers LOG. The Seafarers who work aboard the Fort Johnson, Fort Sumpter, Fort Fisher and Fort Caswell also will receive a wage increase each year of the agreement. The SIU-crewed vessels are responsible for bringing tankers, containerships, general cargo ships and other large vessels into and out of their individual piers at the North Carolina ports of Wilmington and Sunny Point. Negotiations between the union and the company took place at the company's headquarters in Wilmington. /(1<1i•f11 111vot:r1101/'V' t I. \. /111pl1111111mt 'terrir-, (!/fi'rr U. S. MERCHANT MARINE ep it under your TE TS ON_,_~ The collection of World War II merchant marine posters on display at the Paul Hall Center recently was enhanced by the addition of two more posters. As with the other 25, the newly acquired posters are in excellent condition and belong to the collection of former Seafarer Rendich Meola, who has loaned them to the school on a long-term basis. The poster in the photo at left was produced by the U.S. War Shipping Administration in 1942. The art for the poster in the photo at right was done by Melbourne Brindle. Seafarers are welcome to view the poster collection at the library in Piney Point. �6 SEAFARERS LOG OCTOBER 1995 LNG Taurus Recognized for Excellent Safety Record - --- -~ 1 ' Crews Maintain Injury-Free Status On Vessel/or More than FourYears Four-plus years of safe operations aboard the SIU-crewed ING Taurus have not gone unrecognized. Seafarers who have sailed on the Energy Transportation Corp. (ETC) liquified natural gas carrier during that time received special recognition for this accomplishment at a ceremony held earlier in the summer. The American Institute of Merchant Shipping (a national trade association representing U.S.-flag tankers and liners) and the National Safety Council Marine Division (a not-for-profit organization dedicated to protecting life and promoting health at sea and on the waterways) presented the ING Taurus with the 1994 Jones F. Devlin Award for shipboard safety. The award is given to any U.S.-flag vessel that can prove, at Seafarers sailing aboard the LNG Taurus stand in front of flags flown over the vessel indicating 1,506 the end of a calendar year, that it days worked without a lost-time injury-the best record in the ETC fleet. From the left are AB Todd has sailed for two years without a Hileman, AB Carlos Bonilla, Bosun Mo Rawi, Chief Cook Ron Aubuchon, QMED Steve Hoskins, SA Leon crewmember missing a watch because of an occupational injury. Rouse, QMED Joe Pomraning, SA Ivan Passapera, SA Jose Guzman and QMED Larry Pittman. SIU Protests Jailing of Nigerian Unionists SIU members joined with other trade unionists and Nigerian nationals on August 30 in an effort to help Nigerian trade unionists restore democracy to their country and to its workers' movement. Bearing signs calling for "Democracy in Nigeria," the demonstrators marched and chanted in front of the Nigerian Embassy in Washington, D .C. They were protesting the wrongful deposing of Nigerian oil union officials by the Nigerian military junta, and the jailing of the man who is thought to be lawfully elected by Nigerian citizens to lead the nation. Military regimes have ruled Nigeria for 25 of its 35 years of independence. On June 12, 1993, Nigerians went to the polls to vote in what was thought to be a free and democratic election shifting the nation from military to civilian rule. It appeared that businessman Moshood Abiola would be that country's new leader. However, the military declared the election results null and void even before the ballots were counted. The junta banned most democratic institutions (including the independent media) and eventually arrested A biol a, charging him with treason. One year after the election, the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), joined by 40 other trade unions in the country, went on strike to protest the reinstatement of military rule and the arrest of Abiola. The protest effectively shut down Nigeria's commerce, as oil accounts for 90 percent of the nation's exports. Shortly after the strike started, Nigerian officials ordered the unionists back to work. However, the workers ignored the order and stayed out on strike. The junta then fired the president of NUPENG and other union leaders, who went into hiding be- The Taurus received its original award at the group's 1993 ceremony. . However, the crewmembers have taken the challenge to operate safely and injury-free to a higher status, which was recognized by the most recent award. ING Taurus Chief Cook Ron Aubuchon noted that the entire crew is very safety conscious at all times. "We had a lot of safety meetings, and we all worked really hard to ensure that we performed our jobs in the safest manner possible," recalled Aubuchon, who recently signed off the ship. "It was an exciting time," stated the chief cook, who is from St. Louis. "We kept track of the number of days the Taurus had gone without a shipboard injury. There was one tally board outside the captain's.quarters and another outside the galley, and each day a new number was posted. We were all very proud of the ship's outstanding record," he said. ETC Vice President of Safety and Training William T. Foran noted, "The LNG Taurus has shown a great deal of motivation and drive in achieving the Devlin A ward. A safe environment has been created for all workers aboard the Taurus." Shipboard Celebration ~ SEAFARERs TS ._,h~~~':.,NAnoNAt A.CY SUPPORTS IA lEMOCRACY 2-""" IN NIGERIA , SIU members join with other trade unionists outside the Nigerian ~mb.assy in Washington, £?.C,. on .Aug~st ~O to protest the unlawful 1m~nsonment of t~ade umornsts 1n N1gena. From the I~~ are SA Ph1lena Cosby, Chief Cook Ernest Dumont Sr., QMED Phillip Greenwell, Chief Steward Ruti Demot, QMED lobst Kroeger, QMED Brian Shilts, QMED Bruce Wright and Chief Cook Robert Arana. cause they feared being arrested. has been held incommunicado Held Without Cause and without charge since July 4, 1994, when he led his union on However, Frank Kokori, strike in opposition to the general secretary of NUPENG, military's takeover, shutting down production in the country's valuable oil fields. Several other unionists have been detained along with Kokori. Although a Nigerian court ruled in favor of Kokori' s lawsuit against the junta for unlawful detention, the country's military government appealed the ruling which stopped any progress in the case. Currently, Kokori and his colleagues remain in jail. Today, government-appointed "administrators" attempt to control several of Nigeria's largest " trade unions and its national federation, the Nigeria Labour Congress. The freely elected union leaders remain in hiding. Leadersofthecountry's41 industrial unions closed ranks after the clamp down by the junta. After Kokori 's detention and the installation of the so-called administrators, the government froze the federation's assets. Also, the government has threatened to move the Seafarers march in protest outside the Nigerian Embassy in federation's headquarters (curWashington, D.C. Included in the picket line are FOWT Levi Rollins, rently located in Lagos) to Abuja, hundreds of miles away. Chief Cook Robert Arana and Chief Cook Oren Parker. Seafarers who walked in the demonstration said they were proud to support Nigerian workers in their fight for democracy and were hopeful that the rally would put added pressure on the military government to release the trade unionists in Nigeria. Seafarers Show Support . Engme department upgrader Phillip Greenwell of Seattle said, "The SIU is ~lways out there, al~ays supportu~g others. I am a furn behever m human rights. Learning about this situation in Nigeria made me realize how important it is to stand up for those who can't stand up for themselves." Eric Gerstmann of Steward, Fla. added the protest "got the point across" that Seafarers would not sit idly by while other trade unionists' rights were being abused. "It is amazing that fascism still exists," noted Joseph Perry, a QMED from Florida. "I thought it was a good demonstration of solidarity." Luke Pierson, a QMED from the port of New Orleans, said he believes "it was a peaceful demonstration that really made me feel good. We did our part." While the Devlin Award ceremony was taking place in Texas, Aubuchon noted that a special celebration was enjoyed by the crew while the Taurus was at sea between Japan and Indonesia. "We had a big cookout with everything from hamburgers and hot dogs to shrimp and pizza. Everyone was so thrilled we had received the award," Aubuchon said. During the celebration, the ship's captain ordered special flags to be flown over the vessel in recognition of the more than 1,500 days worked without an injury. ''The crew of the Taurus is excellent. From the captain on down, everyone gets along. It was a very good tour for me," added Aubuchon, who also was aboard the Taurus in 1993 when the ship was first commended for its excellent safety record. The Taurus is one of eight ETC vessels that transports liquified natural gas between Arun, Indonesia and Kobe, Japan. The annual award presentation is named after Captain Jones F. Devlin a maritime consultant and arbitrator He developed marine safety p~grams for several U.S. shipping companies. ~ VourSPAD contribution helps keep Congress informed ofiheneeds of Maritime · ·· �OCTOBER 1995 SEAFARERS LOG Tanker Safety Courses Continue Throa II 196 The Paul Hall Center's fourweek tanker operation/safety course will be available to Seafarers throughout 1996, according to Bill Eglinton, director of vocational education at the center's Lunde berg School of Seamanship. "We anticipate scheduling the course in consecutive four-week blocks for most of the year. The first class in '96 will begin January 8 and end on February 2," he stated. "Of course, we' re also running the class two more times before the end of this year." Additional 1996 course dates will be published in upcoming issues of the Seafarers LOG. (See page 19 for a schedule of upcoming Lundeberg School classes and registration information.) All SIU members who sail aboard tankers are required to take the tanker operation/safety class, which has been offered at the school in Piney Point, Md. since January. Seafarers who work in the deck and engine departments must complete all four weeks of the course, which blends hands-on training with classroom instruction. Crewmembers who sail in the steward department are required to take only the first two weeks of the course. Pumpman Ken Stratton, who has sailed aboard tankers for 22' years, was among the group of upgraders scheduled to complete the class on October 6. "It's a good course. It's important to review different types of fires, what your firefighting equipment is all about, what to do in emergencies, how to get down in the tanks (to execute a rescue)," said Stratton, 40. "It's also important to go over in detail all precautionary measures. There are procedures you have to follow. and (reviewing them) was valuable to me." Stratton added that he is a frequent upgrader at Piney Point. "I graduated from the trainee program in 1972, and I've taken QMED courses and other classes here," he stated. "In 23 years, I'd estimate I've spent a year of my life at our school." Chief Steward Luis Escobar also was among the class of 53 students in the most recent course. "This course is an excellent opportunity for everybody to learn about risks that can happen in our field," said the 42-year-old who sails from the port of Honolulu. "Even though I sail in the steward department, I think [tanker safety] is of great concern to all members of the crew." Escobar, who has upgraded fourtimesatthePaulHallCenter, said the instructors were "excellent" and covered many subjects. He added learning how to monitor tanks, reviewing emergency procedures and studying the "Chemical Data Guide for Bulk Shipment by Water" as well as the "Emergency Response Guidebook" (both published by the U.S. DepartmentofTransportation, in part as aids for mariners) were course highlights. Numerous other subjects also are covered in the class. Among them are oil spill/hazardous materials (hazmat) prevention and recovery, confined-space entry and rescue, tankerconstruction, and chemical and physical properties of petroleum products. Other topics and exercises inelude creating site-specific shipboard safety plans, trouble- Upgraders unpack oil-spill containment booms last month during the shooting and basic maintenance tanker operation/safety course at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, of monitoring gear, fit-tests using Md. The course will be offered throughout 1996. respirators and other breathing 10/95 apparatus and emergency equipment, and an introduction to fire chemistry. Establishment of the course was agreed upon during contract One month remains for Seafarers and their families and friends negotiations between the union and SIU-contracted tanker com- to send their holiday messages to the Seafarers LOG for inclusion panies. It was developed by Lun- in the December 1995 issue. The greetings must reach the LOG deberg School instructors in office by Monday, November 13. Simply PRINT or TYPE (in 25 words or less) the message in response to regulations stemming from the Oil Pollution Act of the space provided below. All legible greetings that are written in the holiday spirit will be included if they are received in time. 1990 (OPA '90). (Please, no more than three entries per person.) Photographs also are welcome. Holiday greetings should be sent to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. After November 1, facmember right after Hurricane simile copies also will be accepted at (301) 702-4407. Additionally, forms may be filled out in any union hall and Marilyn hit," said Ruiz. "He lost everything. A mud slide took his turned in to the official at the counter--0r may be given to the home away. The area where his boarding patrolman at a vessel's payoff. To ensure that your holiday greeting is published, please be house once was is wiped clean of sure all information is printed clearly. everything." LOG to Print Personal Holiday Greetings Hurricane Unleashes Fury in Caribbean Continued from page 4 procedures to secure the port began. It was sent out to sea with 18 hours of cargo operations left undone. The SIU-crewed Humacao, a NPR, Inc. vessel, was diverted from the port of San Juan until the hurricane conditions surrounding the region had cleared. On September 16, Marilyn slammed into St. Thomas with winds that ripped the roofs off of homes, devastated government buildings and local businesses, capsized a Coast Guard cutter and plunked it onto a main thoroughfare and toppled yachts as if they were toy models. According to the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), 80 percent of the homes on St. Thomas were damaged or destroyed. The island's 51,000 residents lost water, electricity and telephone service. It may take months before those services are restored. At least eight confirmed deaths have been reported on St. Thomas. At LOG press time, communications to and from the island were extremely limited, and access to the island, via air or sea, also was severely restricted. However, Amos Peters, vice president of the UIW' s Caribbean Region, communicated with union headquarters via cellular phone on September 27. He reported that the UIW' s office on St. Thomas was damaged but not wiped out. "We have an office, but we have no power, no phone lines, no fax and no water," he said. The UIW official added that he believed no UIW members perished in the storm. "But as far as specifics about personal injuries and property damage, it will take some time to gather that information. I do know that many UIW members lost their homes." Many of the UIW members who live in the Virgin Islands are government workers. Peters said a lot of them have been reassigned from their regular work in order to help with relief efforts. On the neighboring island of St. Croix (population 55,000), 20 percent of the buildings suffered damage, while power and phone services were lost completely. One person reportedly died in the violent storm. The UIW office on St. Croix reopened shortly after the storm passed. ln nearby St. John, which is less populous than St. Thomas or St. Croix, 20 percent of the buildings were damaged, and power and water services were interrupted. Initial newspaper reports indicated five deaths occurred on St. John; however, fourof the five are unconfirmed. Culebra Damaged San Juan and towns on Puerto Rico's western coast were not devastated by the hurricane, but tropical winds damaged many homes and knocked out electricity and water in some areas for several days. The SIU San Juan hall lost power and water for about a day. Trees were blown down in the area surrounding it, and broken glass from neighboring windows was strewn about. However, it was cleaned up in a matter of hours. Of Puerto Rico's 78 municipalities, Culebra, an island east of San Juan and home to 3,000 people, sustained the most severe damage from Marilyn. An SIU member who lives on Culebra lost his home but was not injured. "I first heard from the Relief Efforts Begin The SIU has joined the AFLCIO' s disaster relief efforts, being conducted through the American Red Cross, in the Virgin Islands. The Seafarers and their contracted companies as well as the UIW also have embarked on additional relief efforts. Meanwhile, on September 26, the SIU-crewed Maersk Constellation arrived in St. Thomas with equipment and supplies to aid in the clean-up efforts. The vessel unloaded U.S. Army vehicles, portable kitchens, water, four 48foot vans full of food and medical supplies and other vans carrying communication supplies. In San Juan, Ruiz noted that SIU-contracted companieli such as Sea-Land, Crowley American Transport and NPR, Inc. have joined in the relief effort. The shipping companies have donated plywood, water, nonperishable foods and other items to aid the distraught residents and help in the rebuilding of the Caribbean islands. Seafarers are encouraged to donate clothing, non-perishable food items, flashlights and batteries at SIU halls. The donated items will be forwarded to UIW members in St. Thomas, St. Croix and St. John as soon as possible. Steve Edney, the UIW's national director, said collections are under way at UIW halls throughout the U.S. "We'll do everything we can to help the members in the Virgin Islands," Edney stated. Holiday Message (Please print or type) Message: - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Check the block which describes your status with the SIU: D Active Seafarer D Family Member of Active Seafarer D Retired Seafarer D Family Member of Retired Seafarer Send your greeting to the Seafarers WG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. The greeting should be received at the WG by Monday, Nov. 13, 1995. 7 �B SEAFARERS LOG OCTOBER 1995 ·afarers Always Ready On the Cape Wrath Sailing aboard the U.S. Military Sealift Command's (MSC) fleet of prepositioning ships means constantly being ready to quickly transport American military personnel and equipment to a designated area. Seafarers who crew the roll-on/roll-off vessel Cape Wrath demonstrated such readiness and abilities a year ago this month during Operation Southern Watch, which was the U.S. response to a buildup of elite Iraqi troops near Kuwait. As part of that operation, MSC directed 19 prepositioning ships, including the Cape Wrath and other Seafarerscrewed vessels, to move troops and supplies to the Persian Gulf. The mission ended after the threat of a confrontation with Iraq receded. These days, crewmembers aboard the Cape Wrath, which is operated by Amsea, still keep the vessel ready to sail, fully loaded with materiel for the U.S. Army, at a moment's notice. They regularly take part in military exercises and also handle maintenance and repairs. SIU Assistant Vice President Bob Hall, who provided the photos accompanying this article, recently met with crewmembers aboard the ship in Guam. "The crew realizes the importance of manning the prepositioning vessels," he said. ''They're a hard-working group." The prepositioning fleet is comprised of privately owned American-flag ships under charter to MSC. The Cape Wrath is part of the U.S. Military Sealift Command's prepositioning fleet. Bosun Ed Stoetzel Ready for a union meeting aboard the Cape Wrath are (from the left) Wiper Mike Coombs, SAs reminds crew about upSergio Castellanos and Carol Lyon, AB Don Coggins and Chief Electrician H. Chancey. coming military exercise. O/SMarilyn Delivers Food To W.Africa Seafarers aboard the Overseas Marilyn recently completed a 92day voyage from Orange, Texas to Africa and back. The bulk carrier, operated by Maritime Overseas Corp., delivered grains to the African ports of Freetown, Guinea and Monrovia, Liberia. SIU Patrolman Mike Calhoun met with crewmembers upon the vessel's arrival in Orange and subsequently provided the photos accompanying this article. During a shipboard meeting, he and the crew discussed the importance of both upgrading at the Paul Hall Center and donating to SPAD. Members also talked about the status of federal legislation that, if enacted, would allow Alaskan North Slope oil to be exported only aboard U.S.flag, American-crewed ships. The patrolman reported that the entire crew wishes to extend its sympathies to the family of Chief Engineer Thomas D. Luckey, who passed away while the Marilyn was in Africa. ''The crew really liked him and enjoyed working with him," Calhoun noted. ''They wanted the family to know their thoughts and prayers were with them." Listening to a report during a shipboard meeting is AB Ron Mena. Greeted by their respective wives upon the Marilyn's arrival in Texas are AB Mike Tannehill (far left, next to his wife, Karen) and OMU Floyd Acord (far right, with wife, Aurel Marie). Catching up on union news during a meeting on the Overseas Marilyn are (from left, standing) AB Mike Tannehill, Bosun Frank Cottongin, (se~ted) Steward Juan Rivera, SA Jorge Fernandez, AB Ronnie Norwood, AB Bob Seaman, OMU E. Silver, OMU Floyd Acord and AB Dave Hawkins. DEU Victor Quito joins fellow shipmates for a meeting in the galley aboard the Overseas Marilyn. �OCTOBER 1995 SEAFARERS LOG Remembering the Seafarers of WWII Active in Every Theater, Merchant Mariners .Faced Danger and Death For the past five years, Americans have marked the 50th anniversary of special events during World War II withcelebrations,reverenceand thanks. The last of the official anniversary observations took place last month in Hawaii to mark 50 years since the Axis powers surrendered to the Allies. What remains are the memories of those brave men and women who played a vital role in securing final victory. Among those who met the call of their country were members of the Seafarers International Union. The U.S. merchant marine, including thousands of Seafarers, supplied half the world with fuel, food and the tools of battle during World War II, delivering a myriad of cargoes. SIU members also brought back vital raw materials and other industrial necessities to the U.S., an often-overlooked as~ect of wartime shipping wh1ch nevertheless proved essential to maintaining the fight. B~t w~ile the selfless, daring contnbutJon ?f the Americ~ merchan~ manner ~a~ a c~cial e~ement _m the. Alhes ultimate victory, 1t earned a severe cost · More than ~,000 U.S: merchant seamen penshe~ du~ng Wo~ld \Yar IT-often m. mghtmansh c1rcumstances-w1th a casualty rate second only to the Marine Corps. A t?tal of more than 1,500 Amencan-flag ships were lo~t through torpedoes, bombs, Illines and other war-related incidents. More than 1,200 members of the. Seafarers International Umon were among those who gave their lives in the war. But SIU me~bers were undeterred, even dunng the many voyages w~en merchant. vessels sailed without protective escorts. In spite of the lethal dangers, no merchant ships idled in port for lack of crews, and in some cases there were even more men willingtoshipoutfromSIUhallsthan there were ships for them to sail, notes retired Seafarer John Bunker, who sailed during the war and who later worked as the union's first historian. (Bunker also wrote "The Seafarers in World War II," an extensive pamphlet first published by the SIU in 1951.) In all, SIU members sailed in every theater: the Pacific; the treacherous runs to Murmansk and Archangel; the U-boat-infested Gulf of Mexico, Caribbean Sea and Atlantic Ocean; the Persian Gulf, and more. marine sank the Robin Moor in May 1941 after giving the crew 20 minutes to abandon ship. Early in 1942, German Uboats carried the war to America's Atlantic Coast. Here again, Seafarers were among the first to be affected, as the SIUcrewed City of Atlanta was torpedoed and sunk near Cape Hatteras in January. Another SIU ship, the Venore, was sunk later that month in the same region. Many more Seafarer-crewed vessels (including the Robin Hood, Alcoa Guide, Oakmar, Marore, Major Wheeler and Pipestone County) were among the 154 Allied ships sunk along the coast and in the northwest Atlantic between January and June 1942. By mid-1942, the Caribbean andGulfalsowereinfested with enemy subs. A number of SIUmanned ships (including many operated by Waterman, Bull Lines and Alcoa) fell prey to them. Still sailing without guns or armed escorts, the Barbara, Alcoa Carrier, Alcoa Partner, Edith, Lebore, Alaskan and Antinous were among those that went under. Even a passenger ship ' the SIU-crewed Robert E· ~~' wassun~o!1J~ly.30,almost ms1de the M1ss1ss1pp1 Delta. The Russian Run Nearly 350 U.S. merchant ships made the bone-chilling, high-risk run to Murmansk and Archangel to deliver goods to the Russians. Seafarers were part of the famous convoys in July and September of 1942, as well as other voyages to the arctic ports. Most of the convoys were confronted by enemy planes, subs and surface craft, and the dangers were enhanced by storms, ice and fog. The Beauregard was one of many SIU ships to successfully complete the run; the Massmar, which struck a mine was one of ' A~ a~munition ship explodes after being torpedoed on the Murmansk Run, one of the most dangerous m1ss1onsfacedbymembersofthemerchantmarine. a number that never returned was headed to Scotland from home. Russia in the winter of 1945 'Volcano Fleets' whenitlostcontactwithitsconvoy. Carrying Norwegian Of all the vessels which refugees as passengers, the ship sailed during the war, none were was attacked by 23 German tormore at-risk than the tankers pedo planes. which carried oil and gasoline. Unwilling to flee despite imThe_se ships, known among possible odds, the Bacon ma~ners as the volcano fleets, engaged the aircraft in a fierce furnished 80 percent of all ~he battle-undoubtedly surprising fuel that powered th~ Alhed the Nazi pilots, who surely must bombers, tanks and Je~p~ of have expected an easy time World W ~II-tens of Illillions against the merchant ship. of gallons mall. The Amencans · took d own Yet there was no scarcity of eight or nine planes before the mariners from the SIU and the Germans finally torpedoed the Seafarers-affiliated Sailors' vessel. Union of the Pacific to crew the . As the ship went d~wn, tankers even though the vessels always' were one attack awa Seafarers and C?fficer~ ass1s!ed from exploding into a fiery masI. the N orwegta1;18-mclu?mg ~omen and ~h1ldren-mto lifeboats and hfe rafts. There Heroes and Lifeboats also was room for some of the As Bunker notes in his essay, crew. the SIU's history in World War When the Bacon went down, II is ripe with heroes, "the survivors in the lifeboats courageous battles against the saw Chief Engineer Haviland enemy and seemingly super- leaning against the bulwarks human struggles for survival in with Bosun Holcomb Lemmon, the aftermaths of sinkings. as casually as though the ship Thosetalesaretoonumerousto wasleavingthedockforanother recount here, but Bunker cites routine voyage," Bunker wrote. the Henry Bacon as a fitting ex- "Captain Carini waved to them ample of Seafarers' bravery. from the bridge and, as he did The Bacon, a Liberty Ship, so, the Henry Bacon slid swiftly Deadly Beginning SIU members were on the front lines of global action long before there were guns or convoys to protect them. In fact, Seafarers were exposed to the deadliness of the war many months before Pearl Harbor. One of the first U.S.-flag vessels to be attacked during the war was the SIU-crewed Robin Moor, an unarmed cargo ship bound for South Africa from New York. A German sub- Pictured above are suivivors of the Robin Moor, the first SIU-crewed vessel to be sunk during 'NWll. and quietly under the sea. "A big wave rolled over the spot and soon only some floating boards and crates marked where this gallant fighting freighter of the SIU had written such a glorious chapter into the annals of the American merchant service." The Invasions SIU-crewed vessels were part of the convoys at invasion points around the world. SIU members delivered troops and materiel to Normandy, Sicily, Oran, Casablanca, Avola, Gela, Salerno, Anzio, Guadalcanal, Leyte, Okinawa and other key places. One of many SIU freighters in the combat zones was the Jonathan Grout, a Liberty Ship which helped carry British troops from Alexandria for the invasion of Sicily in May 1943. Another was the Lawton B. Evans, a Liberty carrying 4,000 tons of gasoline and ammunition when she arrived at Anzio from Naples in January 1944. SIU ships also were among the· huge fleet that landed Marines and supplies on the volcanic, bloody isle oflwo Jima. And they were in the midst of the fighting at Okinawa where, on Easter Sunday in 1945, began the last great invasion of the war, a b~ttle that lasted for 82 days and ended only after 90,000 Japanese were killed in a maniacal defense of the "last stop before Japan." Seafarers Were There Bunker summarized the SIU' s role in the war when he wrote, "No executive manifestos, no formal enlistment, no testings of loyalty or pledges of devotion to their country's service were required to put SIU crews into action or prove their willingness to face danger-and death .... "Throughout the war, SIU ships were crewed through the union's hiring halls in an efficient system of manning which dispatched thousands of men to freighters, tugs, tankers and transports .... "And the men of the Seafarers International Union are ready now as they were in '42 to write another chapter of loyalty and able performance of duty into the annals of the American merchant service." 9 �OCTOBER 1995 SEAFARERS LOG Remembering the Seafarers of WWII Active in Every Theater, Merchant Mariners .Faced Danger and Death For the past five years, Americans have marked the 50th anniversary of special events during World War II withcelebrations,reverenceand thanks. The last of the official anniversary observations took place last month in Hawaii to mark 50 years since the Axis powers surrendered to the Allies. What remains are the memories of those brave men and women who played a vital role in securing final victory. Among those who met the call of their country were members of .the Seafarers International Uruon. The U.S. merchant marine, including thousands of Seafarers, supplied half the world with fuel, food and the tools of battle during World War II, delivering a myriad of cargoes. SIU members also brought back vital raw materials and other industrial necessities to the U.S., an often-overlooked as~ect of wartime shipping which nevertheless proved essential to maintaining the fight. B~t w~ile the selfless, daring contnbutlon of the American merchant mariner was a crucial e~ement .in the. Allies' ultimate victory, 1t earned a severe cost. More than 7,000 U.S. merchant seamen perished during World War TI-often in nightmarish circumstances-with a casualty rate second only to the Marine Corps. A total of more than 1,500 American-flag ships were lo~t through torpedoes, bombs, mmes and other war-related incidents. More than 1,200 members of the. Seafarers International Umon were among those who gave their lives in the war. But SIU me~bers were undeterred, even dunng the many voyages w~en merchant. vessels sailed without protective escorts. In spite of the lethal dangers, no merchant ships idled in port for lack of crews, and in some cases there were even more men willing to ship out from SIU halls than there were ships for them to sail, notes retired Seafarer John Bunker, who sailed during the war and who later worked as the union's first historian. (Bunker also wrote "The Seafarers in World War II," an extensive pamphlet first published by the SIU in 1951.) In all, SIU members sailed in every theater: the Pacific; the treacherous runs to Murmansk and Archangel; the U-boat-infested Gulf of Mexico, Caribbean Sea and Atlantic Ocean; the Persian Gulf, and more. marine sank the Robin Moor in May 1941 after giving the crew 20 minutes to abandon ship. Early in 1942, German Uboats carried the war to America's Atlantic Coast. Here again, Seafarers were among the first to be affected, as the SIUcrewed City of Atlanta was torpedoed and sunk near Cape Hatteras in January. Another SIU ship, the Venore, was sunk later that month in the same region. Many more Seafarer-crewed vessels (including the Robin Hood, Alcoa Guide, Oakmar, Marore, Major Wheeler and Pipestone County) were among the 154 Allied ships sunk along the coast and in the northwest AtIantic between January andJune 1942. By mid-1942, the Caribbean and Gulf also were infested with enemy subs. A number of SIUmanned ships (including many operated by Waterman, Bull Lines and Alcoa) fell prey to them. Still sailing without guns or armed escorts, the Barbara, Alcoa Carrier, Alcoa Partner, Edith, Lebo re, Alaskan and Antinous were among those that went under. Even a passenger ship, the SIU-crewed Robert E. Lee, wassunkonJuly30,almost inside the Mississippi Delta. . The Russian Run Nearly 350 U.S. merchant ships made the bone-chilling, high-risk run to Murmansk and Archangel to deliver goods to the Russians. Seafarers were part of the famous convoys in July and September of 1942, as well as other voyages to the arctic ports. Most of the convoys were confronted by enemy planes, subs and surface craft, and the dangers were enhanced by storms, ice and fog. The Beauregard was one of many SIU ships to successfully complete the run; the Massmar, which struck a mine was one of ' A~ a~munition ship explodes after being torpedoed on the Murmansk Run, one of the most dangerous m1ss1ons faced by members of the merchant marine. a number that never returned home. 'Volcano Fleets' Of all the vessels which sailed during the war, none were more at-risk than the tankers which carried oil and gasoline. These ships, known among mariners as the volcano fleets, furnished 80 percent of all the fuel that powered the Allied . f b omb ers, t an k s an d Jeeps o w ld w II t f . li for ll ~ ens o rm1 ons o ga ons m a . Yet there was no scarcity of mariners from the SIU and the Seafarers-affiliated Sailors' U · f th p ifi h mono e ac ic to crew t e tankers, even though the vessels always were fr lodin one · attack away om exp g mto a fiery mass. ll Heroes and Lifeboats As Bunker notes in his essay, the SIU' s history in World War II is ripe with heroes, courageous battles against the enemy and seemingly superhuman struggles for survival in the aftermaths of sinkings. Those tales are too numerous to recount here, but Bunker cites the Henry Bacon as a fitting example of Seafarers' bravery. The Bacon, a Liberty Ship, was headed to Scotland from Russia in the winter of 1945 when it lost contact with its convoy. Carrying Norwegian refugees as passengers, the ship was attacked by 23 German torpedo planes. Unwilling to flee despite impossible odds, the Bacon . . engaged the ru.rcraft m a ~e~ce battle--:u~doubtedly surpnsmg the Nazi pilots, who surely must h t d · ave expec e an easy time against the merchant ship. The Americans took down eight or nine planes before the Germans finally torpedoed the vessel. As the ship went down, Seafarers and officers assisted th e N orwegtans-mc · · 1u d.mg women and children-into lifeboats and life rafts. There also was room for some of the crew. When the Bacon went down, "the survivors in the lifeboats saw Chief Engineer Haviland leaning against the bulwarks with Bosun Holcomb Lemmon, as casually as though the ship was leaving the dock for another routine voyage," Bunker wrote. "Captain Carini waved to them from the bridge and, as he did so the Henry Bacon slid swiftly ' 1 ~;;:....-...:;tt5.;;;:::-; Deadly Beginning SIU members were on the front lines of global action long before there were guns or convoys to protect them. In fact, Seafarers were exposed to the deadliness of the war many months before Pearl Harbor. One of the first U.S.-flag vessels to be attacked during the war was the SIU-crewed Robin Moor, an unarmed cargo ship bound for South Africa from New York. A German sub- Pictured above are survivors of the Robin Moor, the first SIU-crewed vessel to be sunk during 'IN'/11. and quietly under the sea. "A big wave rolled over the spot and soon only some floating boards and crates marked where this gallant fighting freighter of the SIU had written such a glorious chapter into the annals of the American merchantservice." The Invasions SIU-crewed vessels were part of the convoys at invasion points around the world. SIU members delivered troops and materiel to Normandy, Sicily, Oran, Casablanca, Avola, Gela, Salemo, Anzio, Guadalcanal, Leyte, Okinawa and other key places. One of many SIU freighters · t he combat zones was the m Jonathan Grout, a Liberty Ship which helped carry British troops from Alexandria for the invasion of Sicily in May 1943. Another was the Lawton B. Evans, a Liberty carrying 4,000 tons of gasoline and ammunition when she arrived at Anzio from Naples in January 1944. SIU ships also were among the· huge fleet that landed Marines and supplies on the volcanic, bloody isle.oflwo !ima. And t~ey were 1.n the rmdst of the fightmg at Okinawa where, on Easter Sunday in 1945, began the last great invasion of the war, a be:ittle that lasted for 82 days and ended only after 90,000 Japanese were killed in a maniacal defense of the "last stop before Japan." Seafarers Were There Bunker summarized the SIU' s role in the war when he wrote, "No executive manifestos, no formal enlistment, no testings of loyalty or pledges of devotion to their country's service were required to put SIU crews into action or prove their willingness to face danger-and death .... "Throughout the war, SIU ships were crewed through the union's hiring halls in an efficient system of manning which dispatched thousands of men to freighters, tugs, tankers and transports .... "And the men of the Seafarers International Union are ready now as they were in '42 to write another chapter of loyalty and able performance of duty into the annals of the American merchant service." 9 �- --- --- OCTOBER 1995 - -- - SEAFARERS LOG Children of Seafarers is the focus of this month's feature. While some of the boys and girls accompanied their parents to the union hall, others experienced a day on the waterfront. One family sent photos from a day at the park. As always, the LOG welcomes your photographs and will publish them on a periodic basis. 11 �..,...... .... _. ""-".._....._.. 12 ____ __ ..._. ....... ~--~-------~ --------~~--~~--~- ~ - SEAFARERS LOG OCTOBER 1995 The SIU Wishes Our New Pensioners The Wind to Their Backs and Harbor from Storms ~ Each month in the Seafare rs LOG, the names of SIU members who recently have become pensioners appear with a brief biographical sketch. These men and women have served the maritime industry well, and the SIU and all their union brothers and sisters thank them for jobs well done and wish them happiness and health in the days ahead. ~ T his month the Seafarers Pension Plan announces the retirements of 23 SIU members who have completed their careers as merchant mariners. Sixteen of those signing off sailed in the deep sea division, six navigated the inland waterways and one worked aboard Great Lakes vessels. Twelve of the retiring Seafarers served in the U.S. military-I 0 in the Anny, one in the Navy and one in the Air Force. Among those joining the ranks of SIU pensioners are Alphonse Johnson, who completed the steward recertification course, and Perfecto M. Amper and Donald Wagner, who both graduated from the bosun recertification program at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. These courses are the highest levels of training for deck and steward members offered at the Lundeberg School. The oldest retiring members this month are Harry J. Celkos, Emil A. Gomez and Alphonse Johnson-all of whom are 70 years old. On this page, the Seafarers LOG presents brief biographical accounts of this month's pensioners. DEEP SEA tive in union beefs and organizing drives. From 1955 to 1957, he served in the U.S. Anny as a paratrooper. A native of New York, Brother Christensen now resides in Horida. CHARLES R.ALLEN, 65, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1964 from the port of ======New Orleans. Brother Allen started his career in the inland division as a member of the deck department and later tran sferred to deep sea vessels, shipping in the engine department. From 1949 to 1952, he served in the U.S. Anny. Born in Tennessee, Brother Allen now makes his home in Louisiana. PERFECTOM. AMPER, 67,joined the SIU in 1968 in the port of Seattle. The deck department member upgraded his rating at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md., and completed the bosun recertification program there in 1982. Born in the Philippines, Brother Amper now Jives in California. NELSON R. DORADO, 66, started sailing with the union in 1964from the port of New Orleans. The deck department member was born in Colombia, South America. Brother Dorado presently lives in Louisiana. EMIL A. GOMEZ, 70,joined the union in 1944 in the port of New York. The New York native sailed as a member of the steward department. Brother Gomez currently makes his home in Japan. l GEORGE E.HARWELL,65, started his career with HARRY J. the SIU in CELKOS, 1946 in the 70,began port of sailing with L--""'---=!!:!!!!'!~--' Mobile, Ala. the SIU in He sailed in the deck depart1947 from ment. From 1954 to 1956, he the port of served in the U.S. Army. ~ PhiladelBrother Harwell continues to '---'-'-~.......__.~__,____J phia. Brother Celkos sailed as a mem- live in his native Alabama. ber of the deck department. A native of Pennsylvania, he con- ALtinues to live in that state. PHONSE JOHNSON, 70,began ROBERT sailing with A.CHRISthe SeaTENSEN, farers in 58,joined 1960 from the SIU in the port of the port of Mobile, Ala. He was a member New York of the steward department and following completed the steward recerhis gradutification course in 1989 at the ation from the SIU' s Andrew Lundeberg School. Dming his Furuseth Training School for union career, Brother Johnson entry level seamen in 1959. served as a delegate to the 1970 Brother Christensen sailed in crew conference, which the deck department, most recently as a bosun. He was ac- provided SIU members the chance to learn more about their union and the maritime industry, in Piney Point. From 1943 to 1946, he served in the U.S. Army. A native of Alabama, Brother Johnson has retired to that state. SEGUNDO S.LUNA, 65,joined the Seafarers in 1971 in the port of New Orleans. Born in Ecuador, he sailed as a member of the deck department. Brother Luna resides in Florida. ANSTEY MINORS, 58, started his career with the SIU in the port of New York following his graduation from the Andrew Furuseth Training School in 1961. Brother Minors last sailed in the steward department as a chief cook. During his union career, he upgraded at both the Andrew Furuseth Training School and its successor, the Lundeberg School. He actively participated in union organizing drives. Born in Trinidad, Brother Minors became a naturalized U.S. citizen. He presently lives in New York. GERALDO MORALES, 67,joined the Seafarers in 1962 in the port of New York. The U.S. Virgin Islands native sailed as a member of the steward department. Brother Morales makes his home in Florida. PAULB. POWERS, 65,began sailing with the Seafarers in 1971 from the port of Houston. The Oklahoma native sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. From 1951to1953, he served in the U.S. Army. Brother Powers continues to reside in Oklahoma. OSVALDO RIOS, 61, started his career with the SIU in 1959 in the port of New York. He was a member of the steward department, last sailing as a chief cook. He upgraded his ratings at both the Andrew Furuseth Training School and the Lundeberg School. From 1955 to 1957, Brother Rios served in the U.S. Air Force. He has retired to his native Puerto Rico. r=,,,.---===-----i DONALD WAGNER, 66,began sailing with the union in 1945 from the port of ·~ San Francis'--===----' co. Brother Wagner shipped in the deck department and completed the bosun recertification course in 1986 at the Lundeberg School. Late in his career, he sailed on Puerto Rico Marine and Sea- Land vessels. From 1946 to 1948, he served in the U.S. Army. Born in New York, Brother Wagner now lives in Florida INLAND GEORGE PALOUMBIS, 65, started his career with the SIU in 1971 in the port of New York. He later upgraded at the Lundeberg School. Brother Paloumbis sailed as a member of the engine department. Born in Greece, he has returned to his native country. HENRYM. CORBELL,62, joined the SIU in 1972 in the port of Norfolk, Va. The Virginia native, a licensed operator, sailed in the deck department, most recently as a relief captain. He attended upgrading courses at the Lundeberg School. From 1953 to 1955, he served in the U.S. Army. Boatman Corbell continues to make his home in Virginia. JAMESD. POSTON, 66,joined the union in 1970 in the port of New York. Brother Pos' - - - - = = = - - ' ton sailed in the deck department, most recently as a bosun. From 1946 to 1950, he served in the U.S. Navy. Brother Poston lives in his native South Carolina. THOMAS L. FARRELL, 61, joined the Seafarers in the port of Baltimore following --~_....L.....,.___, his graduation from the Andrew Furuseth Training School for entry level seamen in 1961. Boatman Farrell sailed in both the deck and steward departments and ~ ~ upgraded to AB at the Andrew Furuseth Training School. During his union career, he served as a delegate to several inland crew conferences at the Lundeberg School. Boatman Farrell retired to his home state of Pennsylvania. ROYC. HARRISON, 62, started his career with the SIU in 1973 in the port of Mobile, Ala. The Alabama native sailed as a member of the deck department. Boatman Harrison continues to live in Alabama. RONALD E. HURD, 62,began sailing with the Seafarers in 1961 from }fi;,t.., the port of --""'~i..L.--~--' Port Arthur, Texas. Sailing in the deck department, he worked his way up from deckhand to captain and earned his first class pilot/operator's license. From 1954 to 1955, he served in the U.S. Army. Boatman Hurd remains a Texas resident. JOHN RICHARD, 58, joined the SIU in 1963 in the port of Port Arthur, Texas. Boatman Richard sailed in the deck department and advanced from mate to captain. He received his first class pilot's license and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. Born in Louisiana, Boatman Richard currently makes his home in Texas. HOWARD SEGREST, 45, started his career with the · union in 1971 from the port of Port Arthur, Texas. He sailed in the engine department. From 1967 to 1970, he served in the U.S. Army. Born in Arizona, Boatman Segrest lives in Texas. GREAT LAKES JAMESH. KETTNER,65, joined the Seafarers in 1980 in the port of Duluth, L;_______:===-:= Minn. The Wisconsin native sailed primarily for Kinsman Lines as a member of the engine department. From 1951 to 1953, he served in the U.S. Army. Brother Kettner retired to his home state of Wisconsin. �[1"""9'l"'""""'--~----------------~---~~ - - .,.- - SEAFARERS LOG OCTOBER 1995 Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea AUGUST 16 - SEPTEMBER 15, 1995 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Port New York 30 Philadelphia 5 Baltimore 8 12 Norfolk Mobile 7 New Orleans 23 Jackson ville 19 San Francisco 22 Wilmington 15 Seattle 31 7 Puerto Rico 6 Honolulu 26 Houston 2 St. Louis 1 Piney Point Algonac 0 214 Totals Port New York 16 Philadelphia 1 0 Baltimore 3 Norfolk Mobile 6 New Orleans 9 Jacksonville 20 San Francisco 14 7 Wilmington 17 Seattle 4 Puerto Rico 2 Honolulu Houston 12 St. Louis 1 Piney Point 2 Algonac 0 Totals 114 Port 20 New York Philadelphia 0 1 Baltimore Norfolk 6 4 Mobile New Orleans 9 Jacksonville 9 San Francisco 22 Wilmington 10 Seattle 22 Puerto Rico 1 Honolulu 5 Houston 13 St. Louis 2 Piney Point 8 Algonac 0 Totals 132 Port New York 9 Philadelphia l Baltimore 0 1 Norfolk 1 Mobile New Orleans 9 2 Jacksonville San Francisco 8 4 Wilmington 10 Seattle Puerto Rico 5 Honolulu 5 Houston 1 St. Louis 0 Piney Point 0 Algonac 0 Totals 56 Totals All De[!artments 516 24 6 5 22 13 25 21 16 14 21 5 13 30 1 8 2 1 2 1 2 5 1 1 1 3 6 2 9 0 1 1 222 44 4 11 0 5 8 7 14 9 11 10 11 3 11 13 2 12 0 127 5 1 1 6 0 2 3 0 3 2 0 8 4 0 0 0 35 78 0 I 0 3 0 2 0 3 2 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 13 38 5 1 3 3 10 2 2 11 3 4 10 11 3 4 l 7 4 0 6 0 3 12 13 16 11 22 10 18 7 42 19 9 1 14 7 8 9 4 2 41 3 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C DECK DEPARTMENT 15 6 23 4 2 1 1 9 8 5 12 14 0 11 9 1 29 18 25 19 2 16 0 9 12 3 13 7 0 21 1 2 2 4 4 8 4 23 15 1 0 1 1 0 0 1 0 0 175 156 31 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 14 13 0 3 1 6 1 1 5 2 8 1 8 3 18 3 12 1 16 9 0 9 5 2 5 6 0 10 16 1 3 3 3 2 9 2 12 14 5 0 1 0 3 2 0 0 0 95 124 19 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 8 0 9 2 1 0 1 0 l 1 6 6 2 1 8 2 10 9 4 1 9 7 0 16 7 0 8 7 0 12 4 1 0 1 0 5 0 3 6 0 0 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 94 61 6 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 4 19 1 1 3 0 2 0 1 4 8 1 12 0 0 18 7 4 5 16 1 1 9 3 2 4 7 5 0 3 0 4 1 7 0 10 2 5 0 0 0 0 1 7 1 1 0 0 Trip Reliefs 5 66 3 0 1 2 5 16 6 14 6 1 4 11 0 5 6 20 17 24 44 43 50 11 12 25 24 39 14 28 6 6 4 4 7 12 86 0 0 0 35 34 51 6 25 40 2 9 3 74 381 394 30 51 16 10 47 1 1 2 33 27 5 1 3 11 13 1 1 2 3 6 10 3 3 8 0 6 7 24 29 24 16 27 4 4 19 56 1 2 0 211 4 30 0 0 4 0 0 0 1 1 5 5 5 13 7 5 1 1 5 0 0 0 5 9 17 19 65 20 37 2 20 19 7 10 11 23 22 1 2 7 3 5 12 0 2 1 7 1 2 6 0 4 2 28 1 20 7 21 4 18 2 0 16 12 4 0 0 0 226 0 48 21 2 2 15 1 17 1 6 12 14 21 11 7 1 19 1 1 4 0 3 1 3 4 2 1 13 12 0 14 0 6 1 1 0 2 53 260 152 37 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 23 55 25 2 1 1 12 1 18 3 27 23 3 7 21 3 19 5 20 0 19 8 15 10 11 2 0 0 0 47 27 110 425 296 962 12197 467 0 0 0 0 0 13 2 0 3 2 228 118 23 132 40 0 0 0 0 655 210 387 473 96 183 1 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 1 12 38 12 84 30 4 20 1 * "Total Registered'' means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. **"Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. 0 11 22 24 9 15 125 7 0 5 2 13 November &December 1995 · Membership Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, Inland Waters Piney Point Monday: November 6, December 4 New York Tuesday: November 7, December 5 Philadelphia Wednesday: November 8, December 6 Baltimore Thursday: November 9, December 7 Norfolk Thursday: November 9, December 7 Jacksonville Thursday: November 9, December 7 Algonac Monday: November 13*; Friday, December 8 *changed by Veterans' Day holiday Houston Monday: November 13, December 11 New Orleans Tuesday: November 14, December 12 Mobile Wednesday: November 15, December 13 San Francisco Thursday: November 16, December 14 Wilmington Monday, November 20, December 18 Seattle Friday: November 24, December 22 San Juan Thursday: November 9, December 7 St. Louis Friday: November 17, December 15 Honolulu Friday: November 17, December 15 Duluth Wednesday: November 15, December 13 Jersey City Wednesday: November 22, December 20 New Bedford Tuesday: November 21, December 19 Each port's meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals KENNITH COOPER Please contact your brother, Daniel Cooper, at (215) 726-0452. ELEFrHERIS KARAOGLANIS Please contact your sister, Christine Purvey, or your nephew, Bob Purvey, at (818) 883-1376. TO THE FRIENDS OF THOMAS LLOYD MEALEY Anyone with information concerning Thomas Lloyd Mealey, please contact his son, Thomas Hill, at 1551 Hemlock St., Eugene, OR 97404. Mealey sailed from the mid-1940s to 1968. ROBERT J. MOMENEE Please contact your mother, Helen Jeanne Momenee, at (419) 474-6148. TO THE FRIENDS OF RALPH PATTON NOELIE Anyone knowing the whereabouts of Ralph Patton Noelie, please contact Del Wasso, 774 Geneva, Romeoville, IL 60446; or call (815) 886-5052. Mr. Noelie, was a merchant mariner from 1944 to 1945. ADAM TAMMARO Please contact your sister, Gloria Luke, at (813) 842-4218, conerning your father, George Luke. �14 SEAFARERS LOG Seafarers International Union Directory Michael Sacco President John Fay Secretary-Treasurer Joseph Sacco Executive Vice President Augustin Tellez Vi(;e President Contracts George McCartney Vice President West Coast Roy A. "Buck'~ Mercer Vice President Government Services Jack Caffey Vice President Atlantic Coast Byron Kelley Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters DeanCorgey Vice President Gulf Coast HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St Clair River Dr. Algonac, MI 4800 I (810) 794-4988 BALTIMORE 1216 E. Baltimore St. Baltimore, MD 21202 (410) 327-4900 DULUTH 705 Medical Arts Building Duluth, MN 55802 (218) 722-4110 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St. Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St. Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St. Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JERSEY CITY 99 Montgomery St. Jersey City, NJ 07302 (201) 435-9424 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy. Mobile, AL 36605 (334) 478-0916 NEW BEDFORD 48UnionSt New Bedford, MA 02740 (508) 997-5404 NEW ORLEANS 630 Jackson Ave. New Orleans, LA 70130 (504) 529-7546 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6()()() NORFOLK 115 Third St. Norfolk, VA 23510 (804) 622-1892 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4St. Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75 Piney Point, MD 2067 4 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave. Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St. San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Government Services Division (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop I 6lh Santurce, PR 00907 (809) 721-4033 SEATTLE 2505 First Ave. Seattle, WA 98121 (206) 441-1960 ST.LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave. St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave. Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 OCTOBER 1995 Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes AUGUST 16- SEPTEMBER 15, 1995 CL-Company/Lakes L-Lakes NP-Non Priority *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac 0 32 5 0 14 3 0 7 3 0 17 12 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP DECK DEPARTMENT 0 31 5 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 18 0 7 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 3 7 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP 0 38 15 0 16 6 0 8 3 0 31 43 Totals All Departments 0 70 23 15 0 56 0 93 * ''Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. **"Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. 67 Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters AUGUST 16 - SEPTEMBER 15, 1995 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals 2 39 2 0 5 6 2 0 10 0 6 47 13 16 3 2 7 0 0 0 3 0 0 1 0 0 12 3 1 1 2 6 0 0 0 1 0 0 3 0 3 9 1 6 4 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A ClassB Class C DECK DEPARTMENT 3 0 0 1 1 1 9 2 0 20 1 2 33 4 3 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 1 0 0 2 1 0 3 0 0 1 2 0 1 1 8 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 1 3 0 0 1 6 0 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 11 4 16 7 38 2 3 20 0 11 0 5 28 30 39 1 0 1 0 1 1 0 0 2 2 0 3 9 0 0 11 12 15 44 47 4 56 Totals All Departments 68 17 23 6 * "Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. **"Registered on Beach'' means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. 56 3 2 3 0 8 3 2 5 0 10 4 0 Letters to the Editor Leback Offers Follow-up On SS Typhoon History I read with interest James M. Smith's article "Danger at DawnMay 1943," which appeared in the August 1995 issue of the Seafarers LOG. I thought Jim Smith and your readers might be interested in the history of the Typhoon after the 1943 incident reported in the story. She was converted to a troop transport (1,454 troops) in August 1945 and operated as a troop ship through to the end of the war. In 1946 she was returned to the Maritime Commission and laid up. In 1948 she was sold to Waterman Steamship Company and renamed Mobilian. She remained in Waterman's service through 1955, then became the Ocean Joyce. In 1961 she was renamed Overseas Joyce; 1965 saw her as the Sapphire Sandy. In 1967 she was detained under arrest, in New York. sold at public auction and renamed Richwood. In 1970 she once again was sold and renamed General Ranger. The end came on 14 June 1971, when grounded off Costa Rica. Leaking and flooded, she was abandoned and declared a total loss. She was on this last voyage from Nagoya, Japan to Paramaribo, Surinam with automobiles. She lasted 28 years. Captain Warren G. Leback Princeton, NJ. (The writer is a former United States Maritime Administrator) Writing to Congress Proves Rewarding Once again, I'm writing to encourage SIU members to write their elected representatives in Washington. I did just that many months ago concerning the declining U.S. merchant marine, and much to my surprise, I've received responses from a few senators and congressmen stating their support of the merchant marine. It seems getting started and writing that first letter is the hardest part, but it's well worth it, especially when I realize the letters are being read. The people in Congress want to hear from citizens who are affected by the laws they pass. Now, I'm writing to other representatives in Washington, plus city officials and even newspaper reporters. My advice to both active and retired SIU members is, write to your representatives. It would be especially impressive to send a letter signed by the entire crew of an SIU ship. Or, if you're a retiree (as I am), writing is a good way to keep your mind active. Walter Karlak Woodside Queens, N.Y. Merchant Mariners Deserve Respect Thanks to this nation's Freedom of Information Act, I recently saw a fact sheet that says our U.S. merchant marine of World War TI suffered a greater percentage of war-related deaths than all U .S. Armed Forces combined. We were the only all-volunteer service, yet many people still don't know there were American merchant ships sunk by enemy action before Pearl Harbor. The first SIU ship to go under was the SS Robin Moor on May 21 , 1941. A total of 833 U.S. ships were sunk, and 31 disappeared without a trace. Yet for 43 years, Congress cheated the World War TI merchant marine out of veterans' benefits, even though President Franklin D. Roosevelt promised us those benefits. Even today, some of the men who sailed in the merchant marine during the war are unfairly being denied such benefits. The American merchant seamen of World War II deserve better treatment, both then and now. Peter Salvo McKeesport, Penn. �SEAFARERS LOG OCTOBER 1995 Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships minutes first are reviewed by the union's contract department. Those Issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. GUA YAMA (NPR, Inc.), June 25-Chainnan Luis Ramirez, Secretary Mark Hoyman, Educational Director Fred Dougherty, Deck Delegate Matt Arnold, Engine Delegate Daniel Campbell, Steward Delegate Donald Williams. Chairman asked contracts department for clarification of emergency relief policy. Secretary advised crewmembers to consider safety above all else. Educational director stressed importance of upgrading at Lundeberg School. No beefs or disputed OT. Chairman urged members to help save merchant fleet by writing congressmen. Crew noted new sofa for crew lounge not yet received. Next port: Jacksonville, Fla. SEA-LAND ENTERPRISE (Sea-Land Service), June 12Chairman Hayden Gifford, Secretary Julio Roman, Educational Director Ray Chapman. Chairman advised crew to be familiar with all shipboard fire stations and fire equipment. He complimented galley gang for fine meals. Secretary underlined importance of upgrading skills at Piney Point. Educational director asked members to donate to SPAD. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew extended special vote of thanks to steward department for clean mess halls and good food. CHARLES L. BROWN (Transoceanic Cable), July 28-Chairman Roger Reinke, Secretary Kenneth Hagan, Educational Director Faustino Pereira, Engine Delegate Ernest Cox, Steward Delegate Charlfred Autrey. Chairman announced separate payoff times for cable layers and all other crewmembers. Deck delegate reminded crew of no smoking rule in crew lounge. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew notified that water coolers are now on board until new drinking water filter system is installed. Chairman informed crew three new washers and dryers were ordered and crew lounge couch being reupholstered. Crew reported starboard side air conditioning not working properly. Crew thanked steward department for midnight meals. Next port: St. Thomas, U.S.V.I. Bigger Fish to Fry? NEDLLOYD HOLLAND (SeaLand Service), July 23--Chairman Freddie Goethe, Secretary C. Jones. Chairman advised all crewmembers wishing to continue sailing aboard tankers to attend Piney Point tanker operations course. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked galley gang for job well done. LIBERTY WA VE (Liberty Maritime), August 13-Chairman Neil Matthey, Secretary Vincent Sanchez Jr., Educational Director Kelly Graham, Deck Delegate Lee Hollier, Engine Delegate Roman Niles, Steward Delegate A. Fanchini. Chairman announced ship will be loading 52,000 tons of corn in New Orleans destined for Agaba, Jordan. Bosun stated captain going on vacation and new captain signing on for next trip. Disputed OT reported by engine delegate. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck or steward delegates. Chairman announced new TV speaker, toaster, washer and dryer have been ordered. Crew thanked steward department for job well done and for preparing enjoyable cookouts. Bosun encouraged crew to keep mess rooms and crew lounge clean. He also reminded members of the importance of upgrading at Lunde-berg School. Next port: New Orleans. 2ND LT. JOHN P. BOBO (Amsea), August 6--Chairman William Bratton, Secretary Dorray Saberon, Educational Director Michael Langenbach, Deck Delegate Thomas J. Guffey, Engine Delegate James Bates. Chairman reported crew lounge TV has been repaired and returned to ship. He discussed upcoming contract negotiations between union and Amsea. He advised crew to have updated z-cards and benzene cards. Educational director discussed importance of taking upgrading courses offered at Piney Point, especially the tanker operations course. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman announced the ship's contract with U.S. government renewed for another five years. AB Steve Foster requested more frequent union meetings be held while at sea. AB Albert Austin thanked captain for prompt understanding and action when a death in his family occurred. Chairman reminded crew of importance of SPAD and MDL in keeping the union strong. Next port: Malaga, Spain. MAUI (Matson Navigation), August 25--Secretary Don Dwyer, Steward Delegate Nasar A. Alfaqih. Chairman urged crewmembers to write congress in support of pending maritime legislation. Steward delegate discussed importance of donating to SPAD and reminded crew to register for tanker operations course at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Secretary encouraged members to read Seafarers LOG. Steward delegate noted new galley gang uniforms on order. Next port: Honolulu. Patrick Maher, oiler aboard the USNS Victorious, recently spent some of his off-time fishing from the T-AGOS vessel. Here, he displays his first catch made between California and Hawaii: a 4-pound tuna. OM/ HUDSON (OMI), August 13--Chairman Oscar Wiley, Secretary Terry Allen, Educational Director L. W. Philpot, Deck Delegate Ken Gilliam, Engine Delegate Thomas Koubek, Steward Delegate Floyd Bishop. Chainnan urged crewmembers to take advantage of upgrading opportunities available at Lundeberg School, especially tanker operations and advanced firefighting courses. Secretary informed crewmembers of latest developments on Alaskan oil bill and noted details to be found in current issue of Seafarers LOG. Educational director encouraged upgrading at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked contracts department to look into improved vision and dental plans. Educational director requested crew to help keep mess hall clean. Chairman advised crew not to wear hats during meals. Steward reminded crewmembers to separate plastic trash from regular refuse. Galley gang thanked for job well done. Next port: Texas City, Texas. John Ross. Chairman and crew discussed situation dealing with flagging-out of five Sea-Land vessels. Chairman reminded crew of importance of donating to SPAD. Treasurer announced $150 in ship's fund. Deck delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT by engine or steward delegates. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. SEA-LAND ENTERPRISE (Sea-Land Service), August 23Chairman Elex Cary Jr., Secretary Julio Roman, Educational Direc- 15 Ray Agbulos, Educational Director E.B. Perreira, Deck Delegate Nick McKnett, Engine Delegate Lonnie Carter, Steward Delegate Mercurion Abuan. Chairman announced annual U.S. Coast Guard inspection. He stressed importance of fire prevention and safety on deck at all times. Educational director reminded crew to donate to SPAD and upgrade at Lunde berg School. No beefs or disputed OT rei:)orted. Crew extended vote of thanks to galley gang for job well done. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. OMI Missouri:1st U.S. Ship to Visit Nikolayev OOCL INSPIRATION (SeaLand Service), August 6-Chairman Ron Dailey, Secretary Ekow Doffoh, Educational Director Eric Bain, Engine Delegate Paul Babbin, Steward Delegate Raul Gotay. Chairman advised crewmembers to attend tanker operations course at Lundeberg School so they can continue sailing aboard tankers. Secretary also encouraged crew to participate in the Piney Point upgrading program. Engine delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck or steward delegates. Crew gave vote of thanks to steward department for delicious food throughout voyage. Next port: Boston. OVERSEAS ALASKA (Maritime Overseas), August 14Chairman John Kelley, Secretary Lincoln Pinn, Educational Director Steven Tebbe, Deck Delegate James Catlin, Engine Delegate Steve Hansford, Steward Delegate Frank Martin. Chairman reminded crewmembers to enroll in tanker operations course at Paul Hall Center. He asked members to keep crew lounge clean and rewind and put away videotapes when finished. He announced payoff date in port of Tacoma, Wash. Educational director urged crew to upgrade as often as possible at Lundeberg School and donate to SPAD. Members commemorated anniversary of Paul Hall's birthday. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked galley gang for job well done. OVERSEAS MARILYN (Maritime Overseas), August 6-Chairman Frank Cottongin, Secretary Jose Rivera, Deck Delegate Mike Tannehill, Engine Delegate W.C. Weekley Sr. Chairman announced payoff in Orange, Texas and reminded crewmembers not to leave ship until rooms are cleaned for inspection. Secretary requested additional stores in case of another extended voyage. Deck delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegates. Crew reported drinking water dirty and requested problem be fixed. PFC JAMES ANDERSON JR. (Maersk Lines Ltd.), August 17--Chairman James Keith Jr., Secretary Marvin James, Educational Director Alfred Hannman, Deck Delegate Steve Estrela, Engine Delegate Steve Cortez, Steward Delegate Flo Houquha. Chairman reported captain commended "outstanding SIU crew" for hard work done during trip. Treasurer announced $450 in ship's fund. Deck and engine delegates reminded crew to attend tanker operations course at Piney Point. Crew gave vote of thanks to steward department for job well done. Bosun and deck delegate thanked crewmembers for excellent teamwork. Crew told new VCR and TV for lounge will be brought aboard in Jacksonville, Fla. SEA-LAND DEVELOPER (Sea-Land Service), August 9Chairman Dana Cella, Secretary Frank Sison, Educational Director The SIU-crewed OM/ Missourirecently became the first American-flag ship to berth in Nikolayev, Russia, where a Russian navy base is located. The photo above, which shows AB Ron Johnson (left) and Radio Officer Ronald Dole, Jr., was taken in nearby Odessa, also part of the former Soviet Union. tor R.W. Risbeck, Deck Delegate Donald Rezendes, Engine Delegate James Spranza, Steward Delegate Cesar Lago. Chairman announced U.S. Coast Guard inspection of ship next trip. Bosun and secretary asked crew to donate to SPAD to keep union strong. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center and give to SPAD. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested additional washing machine so work and street clothes can be cleaned in separate machines. SEA-LAND INDEPENDENCE (Sea-Land Service), August 6-Chairman Jose Loureiro, Secretary William Bragg, Educational Director Lawrence Holbert, Engine Delegate Juan Garcia, Steward Delegate M. Mohamed. Chairman advised crew of payoff in Long Beach, Calif. He asked crewmembers to always ''work safe" and be cautious of possible hazards. Secretary announced latest news regarding efforts in Congress to pass an Alaskan oil bill, allowing export of Alaskan North Slope oil aboard U.S. tankers. He reminded crew to attend tanker operations course at Paul Hall Center as soon as possible. Educational director asked crew to continue upgrading at Lundeberg School. Treasurer reported $90 in movie fund and crew voted to purchase new videos in ne~t port. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward delegate asked crewmembers to report all injuries and illnesses. Chairman noted repair list to be completed. He thanked galley gang for excellent job. Next port: Kaosiung, Taiwan. SEA-LAND INNOVATOR (Sea-Land Service), August 26Chairman John Stout, Secretary SEA-LAND PACIFIC (SeaLand Service), August 13-Chairman Lothar Reck, Secretary George Bronson, Educational Director Larry Cline, Deck Delegate Pamela Taylor, Engine Delegate Michael Bautista, Steward Delegate Charles Atkins. Chairman encouraged members to contribute to SPAD to keep union strong. He reminded crewmembers to check with union patrolman and U.S. Customs upon arrival in port. Bosun asked members to keep laundry room and crew lounge clean. He also urged them to clean cabins and have fresh linens ready for next crewmember. Secretary encouraged all members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center and advised cooks to check Seafarers LOG for recertified steward course schedule. Educational director suggested crewmembers stay informed on industry happenings. He urged crew to vote in 1996 elections and upgrade skills at Piney Point. Treasurer announced 16 new movies and tape rewinder purchased from ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked galley gang for job well done. Chairman asked crew to keep new dryer clean and check pants pockets for items before washing or drying. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. SEA-LAND PRODUCER (SeaLand Service), August 6--Chairman Jack Edwards, Secretary Donna Jean Clemons, Educational Director Robert Hamil, Deck Delegate Mitchell Santana, Engine Delegate Abdul Mohamed, Steward Delegate Joseph Laureta. Chairman announced ship's arrival and departure time from Oakland and Long Beach, Calif. Educational director reminded crewmembers Continued on page 16 �f IWWW:S!Qi MW r 16 SEAFARERS LD6 OCTOBER 1995 those sleeping can rest. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. · Ships Digest Continued from page 15 now is time to take tanker operations course at Lundeberg School. He advised crew that tanker class is four weeks long for deck and engine departments and lasts two weeks for galley gang members. Treasurer announced $1,200 in ship's fund and $55 in crew emergency fund. Deck delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegates. Crew requested that steward department add more meat dishes to menu. Next port: Oakland. SEA-LAND TACOMA (SeaLand Service), August 2---Chairman Joe Artis, Secretary Harry Lively, Educational Director George Ackley, Deck Delegate Dominic Brunamonti, Engine Delegate Paul Lewis, Steward Delegate Patrick Durwin Jr. Chairman reported no news received concerning telephone service in Kodiak, Alaska. He urged members to attend all union meetings regardless of where held-in union hall or at sea. He noted participation in meetings is very important. Educational director urged all union members to take advantage of upgrading opportunities available at Paul Hall Center. He advised those wishing to continue sailing aboard tankers to attend tanker operations course at the Lundeberg School before year's end. Treasurer announced $700 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed purchase or building of cabinet for videotapes in lounge area. Chairman reminded crewmembers to keep noise down after hours so SEA-LAND TRADER (SeaLand Service), August 9---Chairman Mike Willis, Secretary Kevin Dougherty, Educational Director Milt Sabin, Deck Delegate John Williamson, Engine Delegate Brent Johnson, Steward Delegate Ken Clark. Chairman reported vessel scheduled to dock in Tacoma, Wash. on Saturday, August 12. He noted stores will be brought by barge and loaded while vessel is in port. Treasurer announced $200 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed letter received from union headquarters concerning length of time it takes to get vacation check. Crew asked contracts department to look into developing 401K plan to supplement existing SIU pension plan. Bosun thanked ship's delegates and entire steward department for job very well done. Next port: Tacoma. STONEWALL JACKSON (Waterman Steamship), August 6Chairman Eugene Grantham, Secretary C.C. Hollings ID, Educational Director Francis Quebedeaux, Deck Delegate William Fielding, Engine Delegate Mark Glinka, Steward Delegate John Bennett. Chairman noted payoff upon arrival in port of New Orleans. Secretary reported stores to be received in Morehead City, N.C. Educational director advised crew to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested new TV and thanked galley gang for fine job. Secretary Hollings thanked crew for very nice trip and commended entire crew for working well together. Scholarship Applications Due by April 16, 1996 Six months remain until April below and mail it to the Seafarers 16, 1996, the deadline for mail- Welfare Plan. Or pick one up at ing in a completed scholarship your nearest SIU hall. application to the Seafarers Welfare Plan. With the cost of a college education rising each year, the seven scholarships being awarded in 1996 will help members and their families attain their educational goals. Three of the scholarships are reserved for SIU members (one in the amount of $15,000 for a four-year grant to a college or university, and two $6,000 twoyear scholarships for study at a vocational school or community college). The other four scholarships will be awarded to spouses and dependent children of Seafarers. Each of these four is a $15,000 stipend for study at a four-year college or university. Eligibility requirements are spelled out in a booklet which also contains an application form. To receive a copy of the booklet, fill out the coupon In addition to the application form, a number of other items need to be included in the total application package. These include the applicant's autobiographical statement, a photograph, a certified copy of his or her birth certificate, high school transcripts and certification of graduation or official copy of high school equivalency scores, college transcripts, letters of reference and SAT or ACT score results. Gathering all the necessary paperwork may take some time, especially since schools often are very slow in handling transcript requests. Applicants also should sign up for the ACT or SAT exam well in advance of the deadline. Once all the paperwork has been received and the application form is filled out, the entire package should be sent to the Seafarers Welfare Plan on or be/ore April 15, 1996. lease send me the 1996 SIU scholarship program booklet which contains eligibility information, procedures for applying and the application form. P City, State, Zip Code _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Telephone Number _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ This application is for: D Self D Dependent Mail the completed f orm to the Scholarship Program, Seafarers Welfare Plan, 10/95 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 --------------------------------------------• , hen Seafarers purchase products Wmade and packaged at the Dial ____ BUY•N Company: Dial Corporation Products made by UIW members: Brillo steel-wool soap pads, Purex Toss'n Soft scented dryer sheets, Dobie synthetic scouring pads UIW members at Dial: Work as machine operators, technicians, maintenance personnel, packers, warehousemen, tool-makers, batch mixers and wire choppers Corporation plant in London, Ohio, they not only buy durable cleaning goods, but also put their dollars to work for themselves and their fellow trade unionists. That's because the factory workers at Dial's London plant (which is near Columbus, Ohio) are members of the United Industrial Workers (UIW), a union affiliated with the Seafarers International Union. The UIW members at Dial take raw materials through the complete manufacturing process, then package the finished products for shipment. The facility in London has been open since 1921 and has been a UIW shop for nearly 25 years. Four different companies have owned the plant, with Dial taking over in 1985. Distribution: Nationwide Facilities: 250,000 square-foot plant in London, Ohio That's a fact: UIW members at Dial also produce wire-related products used for concrete reinforcement as well as in automobile brake pads UIW member Mike Holton displays products made at the Dial plant in London, Ohio. Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership's money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rankand-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member's shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from piblishing articles deemed hannful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers WG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from aroong its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to furtherits objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In cqnnection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union orof employment If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contri bu ti on for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if invohmtary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING TIIE UNION-If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 . �SEAFARERS LOG OCTOBER 1995 17 Final Departures DEEP SEA GEORGE ERHARDT Pensioner George Erhardt, 86, died July 4. Brother Erhardt joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1966 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU' s Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District (AGLIWD). Born in Switzerland, Brother Erhardt lived in California. He retired in March 1974. EDWIN R. HERMANSON Edwin R. Hermanson, 60, died July 17. A native of Wisconsin, Brother Hermanson joined the SIU in 1967 ~~~~~· in the port of San Francisco. He sailed in the deck department. From 1954 to 1957, he served in the U.S. Marine Corps. ~-------. ARTHUR JOHNSON Pensioner Arthur Johnson, 81, passed away May 9. Born in the Philippine Islands, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1942, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Johnson began receiving his pension in July 1974. FRANK LEONARD ,. Pensioner 1 Frank Leonard, 81, \ died August " f , 16. The , ~ Louisiana narJ ~ tive began j ""' " sailing with . the Seafarers 1 '----"=-=-~");-~= · -= in 1947 from the port of Norfolk, Va. Brother Leonard shipped as a member of the deck department. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II. Brother Leona1d retired in June 1976. HENRY M. MURRANKA r----"!"""'"-"'='= Pensioner ,. Henry M. · ~ Murranka, 78, passed away August 18. He started his career with .. the SIU in ~ 1944 in the port of Galveston, Texas. Brother Murranka sailed in the deck department. He began receiving his pension in September 1979. JOSEPH H. NELSON Joseph H. Nelson, 51, died June 28. The Louisiana native began sailing with the Seafarers in 1968 from the port of New York. Brother Nelson sailed in the steward department. He served in the U.S. Army from 1968 to 1969. that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. He began receiving his pension in October 1972. DANIEL PALMERONE Pensioner Daniel Palmerone, 68, died May 29. A native of New York, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1957 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Palmerone shipped primarily with American President Lines and last sailed as a master chef. He retired in December 1973. EFfHIMIOS A. PAPPAS Pensioner Efth imios A. Pappas, 69, passed away August 29. Born in New Jersey, he started his career with =-c..____!~.......""' the Seafarers in 1955 in the port of New York. Brother Pappas was a member of the steward department, last sailing as a chief cook. From 1949 to 1950, he served in the U.S. Anny. Brother Pappas retired in September 1988. WILLIAM PETERSON William Peterson, 26, died February 24. Brother Peterson graduated from the Lundeberg School' s entry level program for seamen in 1990 and joined the SIU in the port of Piney Point, Md. The Alabama native shipped as a member of the steward department. JOSEPH A. RUSHEED Mlll~lllill Pensioner Joseph A. Rusheed, 76, passed away July 12. Brother Rusheed started his career with '----~--~ the Seafarers in 1941 in the port of Mobile, Ala. The Alabama native sailed in the deck department. Brother Rusheed lived in Nevada and began receiving his pension in January J985. ANDRES SUAREZ Andres Suarez, 54, died August 3. Born in Puerto Rico, he started his career with the SIU in 1971 in the .___ _ _ _ ___, port of New York. Brother Suarez sailed in al1 departments-engine, steward and deck-and upgraded frequently at the Lundeberg School. L _ __ _ _ _ ___, LOUIS OCHS Pensioner Louis Ochs, 83, passed away June 29. Brother Ochs joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards around 1950 before CHARLES 0. WEBB Pensioner Charles 0. Webb, 67, died July 4. Brother Webb began his sailing career with the Marine Cooks and Stewards in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged witl1 the SIU's AGLIWD. He began receiving his pension in May 1975. CLAYTON TARVER Pensioner Clayton Tarver, 69, passed away June 17. A native of Louisiana, he joined the union in ._____...._.,""""""'_ _____, 1957 in the port of Houston. The steward department member started sailing in the inland division and later transferred his membership to the deep sea division. From 1943 to 1946, he served in the U.S. Coast Guard. Brother Tarver retired in September 1984. GILMAN E. WILKINS GilmanE. Wilkins, 51, passed away June 6. Born in Virginia, he started his career with the Seafarers in 1968 in the port of New York. Brother Wilkins sailed as a member of the engine department. THEODORE WILSON Pensioner Theodore Wilson, 90, died August 7. He joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in the 1940s, before that union merged with the SIU' s AGLIWD. Brother Wilson retired in December 1966. I LA DELMAS A. CORNELIUS Pensioner Delmas A. Cornelius, 80, died July 19. Born in North Carolina, he joined the SIU in 1960 ~-----~ in the port of Norfolk, Va. As a member of the deck department, Boatman Cornelius advanced through the ranks from tankerman to captain. He retired in February 1979. JACK FRENCH Pensioner Jack French, 88, passed away August 3. Boatman French started his career with the union in 1946 in the port of Houston. The Texas native sailed as a member of the engine department and began receiving his pension in March 1973. LENNARD E. FULLER SR Pensioner Lennard E. Fuller Sr., 80, died July 17. He began his ' sailing career with the SIU in 1957 in the port of Houston. Boatman Fuller was a member of the deck department, last sailing as a tugboat captain. Born in Texas, he retired in August 1986. RAYMOND H. RICKARDS fiiiiiiiii~mm~ Pensioner Raymond H. Rickards, 84, died August 1. A native of Pennsylvania, he joined the Seafarers in '-------~ 1961 in the port of Philadelphia. A member of the deck department, Boatman Rickards last sailed as a captain. He began receiving his pension in June 1976. ADAM A. WENCLEWICZ Pensioner AdamA Wenclewicz, 72, passed away June6. Born in Pennsylvania, he joined the Seafarers in 1961 in the port of Philadelphia. Boatman W enclewicz sailed in the deck department and shipped primarily with aboard Curtis Bay Towing vessels. From 1943 to 1945, he served in the U.S. Army. Boatman Wenclewicz began receiving his pension in October 1980. EMORY L. WHIDBEE Pensioner EmoryL. Whidbee, 69, died June 5. He joined the SIU in 1962 in the port of Norfolk, Va. The North ~-----~· Carolina na- tive sailed in the steward department and attended an educational conference at the Lundeberg School in 1978. From 1944 to 1946, he served in the U.S. Navy. Boatman Whidbee retired in August 1982. GREAT LAKES DONALD D. MENTER Pensioner DonaldD. Menter, 59, began his sailing career with the Seafarers in 1961 in the port of Sault '--------~ Ste. Marie, Mich. The New York native shipped in the engine department and began receiving his pension in December 1990. ~-------. ATLANTIC FISHERMEN JOSEPH PARISI Pensioner Joseph Parisi, 88, passed away ..___.,...., ,,_, August 8. Brother Parisi started his career in the 1930s in the port of Gloucester as a charter member of the Atlantic Fishermen's Union. He shipped in the deck department and received the mariners medal for his part in the 1963 rescue of the St. Nicholas fishing vessel. Born in Italy, he made his home in Gloucester. He retired in January 1972. NOTICE TO SEAFARERS WHO HAVE SAILED ABOARD /OM VESSELS The following members are urged to contact Interocean Management Corporation (IOM) to claim outstanding checks which are being held for them. All Seafarers listed below should contact Linda D. Holmes at IOM at (609) 770-5637. Abobaker, Mohamed Aldridge, Larry L. Alexander, Matthew Arnold, Krista Baldwin, Walter C. Barrineau, William 0. Blunt, Castel Boyce, Jerry Cintorino, Fred Clear, Taylor Collier, Herbert Danao, Norman F. Davis, Envie Dinos, Dennis Dowdell, Thomas Dunn, Matthew Eldridge, Thomas Ewing, Larry Faller, Kenneth J. Flynn, James Foster, Stephen R. Garrett, Samuel Greenwood, Andrew Hargrave, Scott C. Harkleroad, Roger J. Harris, Marjorie Hernandez, Raul Hines, Alice Holle, Alan, Irons, Rodney Jackson, John Johnson, Joseph Leathers, Gary E. Libby, Jeffrey Louw, Marius MacGregor, Thomas M. Manandic, Jose Mcintyre, Charles S. Mohamed, Munassar Moore, Sean Muellersman, Paul Ngo, Luong Pak, Errol F. Peddell, Peter Pennick, John D. Perham, Stephen J. Phelphs, Robert Phillips, John H. Richardson, Mark Rivera, Jose Rodriguez, Jesus Rolon, Rosario Saari, Timothy Scruggs, D'Vaughn Sims, Ray F. Skidmore, Mark M. Sleeper, Rebecca J. Smith, David W. Smith, Teddy H. Stephens, Joseph W. Jr. Sykes, Lonzell Torngren, George C. Warren, Michael A. Weirauch, Jon N. Werner, Claiborne B. Whitehouse, Joel V. Williams, James Williams, Michael Williams, Washington H. Jr. Woods, William Worrell, Robert J. Zindani, Mutee Zoubantis, Apostolie E. �18 SEAFARERS LOG OCTOBER 1995 Lundeberg School Graduating Classes HARRY LUNDEBERG 1 ~'~ LIFEBOAT CLASS 1 ..~~ Trainee Life boat Class 540-Graduating from trainee lifeboat class 540 are (from left, kneeling) Kenyon Burage, Angel Gonzalez, Terry Gilliland, Nathaniel Martin, (second row) Jeff Swanson (instructor), Jason McElhaney, Karl Kirkland, Richard Russell, Patrick Cazaubon, Frank Cottongin Ill and Nicholas Joyce. Power Plant Maintenance-Completing the power plant maintenance course on August 9 are (from left, kneeling) Neil Carter, Jesus Pilare, (second row) David St. Onge, Brian Sengelaub, Dan Holden (instructor) and Joseph Jay Arnold. Chief Steward-Upgrading to chief steward on September 6 are (from left) James Bennefield, Karen Marine Electrical Maintenance I-Completing Denney, John Venables, Gloria Holmes and Terry the curriculum on September 7 are (from left, front row) Biko Hasan, Stephen Walters, Jose Rodriguez, (second row) Mark Magno. Jones (instructor), Gary Dahl, William Behan and Ken Stratton. Chief Cook-Marking their completion on September 6 from the chief cook class are (from left) Carmelo de La Cruz, Amanda Suncin, Nelson Morales, Thomas Milovich, Donald Dilley and Richard Casuga. Not pictured is Pamela Cook and Baker-Seafarers completing the cook and baker class on September 6 are (from left) Isabel Sabio, Neville Hughes, Jaime Racpan, (second row) Eric Van Benthuysen, Wadsworth Jarrell and Mario Ramiro. Upgraders Lifeboat- Certificates of training were received by the July 20 class of upgraders. They Crane Maintenance-Graduating from-the dockside crane mainare (ffom left, kneeling) Salvadore Abreu, Mariann Harris, Don Stringer, Alaa Embaby, Kurt Benjamin, Joseph tenance class on August 9 are (from left, kneeling) Willie Lee Lindsey, Van Grandinetti, James Crisler, (second row) Luis A. Gamez, Eric Gogue, Levi Rollins, James Storm, Simeon X. Pham, Peter Fried, Thomas Hartman, (second row) Eric Malzkuhn Rivas, Porfirio Alvarez, Ralph Morgan, Joel Trotter, Troy Gruber (instructor), (third row) Joaquin Martinez, (instructor), Steven Suess, Donald Wroten, Paul Keffer, Eddie Almodovar and Miles Black. Lee BoHannon, Biko Hasan and Tyrone Trotman. Tankerman Operations- SIU members completing the tankerman operations course on August 9 are (from left, front row) Levi Rollins, Israel Rivera, John Nelson, Michael Eaton, Claudio Romano, Billy Hill Sr., Joel Trotter, (second row) Scott Snodgrass, Michael Rueter, Salvatore Gilardi, Mark Blom, Eric Martinez, Patrick Carroll, Stephen Dearborn, Jerry Smith, Ben Cusic (instructor), Richard Gracey, (third row) Ross Himebauch, Edward Krebs, Sal Monella, Ramadan Elmobdy, Frank Footer, John Nichols, Wilfredo Velez, William Beatty Jr., (fourth row) Dale Kirsch Jr., Craig Perry, Elieser Montalvo, Brad Haines, Patrick Corless and James Shepherd. �SEAFARERS LOG OCTOBER 1995 LUNDEBERG SCHOOL 1995 -1996 UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE The following is the schedule for classes beginning between October and December 1995-as well as some courses proposed for January, February and March of 1996--at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship located at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. All programs are geared to improve job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. Please note that 1996 courses listed here are tentative and do not include all classes planned for this period. Future issues of the LOG will carry a more complete listing for next year's upgrading classes. The course schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and-in times of conflict-the nation's security. Please note that students should check in the Saturday before their course's start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. Deck Upgrading t:ourses Start Date Date of Completion Bridge Management (Ship handling) October9 October20 Celestial Navigation November6 December 15 Limited License/License Prep. September 25 November3 Radar Observer/Unlimited October2 March18 October6 March22 January29 May17 Course Third Mate 19 Steward Upgrading Courses Course Assistant Cook/Cook and Baker, Chief Cook, Chief Steward Date of Completion January 26 Start Date November3 Engine Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion QMED January 15 March31 Welding October23 March18 November 17 April 12 Marine Electrical Maintenance I March 18 April26 Diesel Engine Technology October9 March 18 November3 April 12 Fireman/Watertender & Oiler October2 December15 Power Plant Maintenance February S March 15 All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. Inland Courses Safety Specialty Courses Start Date Date of Completion Oil Spill Safety Recertification October 19 October 19 Sealift Operations and Maintenance October9 November3 Tanker Operations October9 November6 November20 January8 November3 December! December 15 February2 Course Start Date Date of Completion Deck Inland October23 November3 Designated Duty Engineer/ Limited LicenseJLicense Prep. November13 November24 Radar Observer/Inland November6 November 10 En ine Room Familiarization January 8 January 19 NOTICE TO SEAFARERS This schedule includes a tentative list of classes for the first three months of 1996. The Lundeberg School is in the process of finalizing its complete course schedule for next year. As soon as the dates are secured, the schedule will appear in upcoming issues of the Seafarers LOG. Ret:erllfloatlon Programs Course Start Date Date of Completion Bosun Recertification October2 November6 Meanwhile, members with any questions regarding future courses may call the school's admissions office at (301) 994-0010, ext. 5202. --~·-·············-·····-·······-··········---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------·······-·· UPGRADING APPLICATION Primary language spoken (Street) (City) Telephone__...__ _...___ _ _ _ __ (Zip Code) (State) Date of Birth _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ (ArcaCode) With this application, COPIES ofyour discharges must be submitted showing sufficient time to qualify yourselffor the course(s) requested. You also must submit a COPY of each of the fallowing: the first page ofyour union book indicating your department and seniority, your clinic card and the front and back ofyour z-card as well as your Lundeberg School identification card listing the course(s) you have taken and completed The admissions office WILL NOT schedule you until all of the above are received (Month/Day/Ycar) Deep Sea Member D Lakes Member 0 Inland Waters Member 0 .· COURSE BEGIN DATE END DATE If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security# Book# _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ S e n i o r i t y - - - - - - - - - - - - - Department _ _ _ _ _ __ U.S. Citizen: DYes D No Home Port ----------- Endorsement(s) or License(s) now h e l d - - - - - - - - - - - - - - LAST VESSEL: - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Rating: _ _ _ __ Date O n : - - - - - - - - - - Are you a graduate of the SHLSS trainee program? DYes DNo If yes, class# - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Have you attended any SHLSS upgrading courses? DYes DNo If yes, course(s) taken _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? D Yes D No Firefighting: D Yes D No CPR: D Yes D No Date O f f : - - - - - - - - - - SIGNATURE_______________DATE _ _ _ _ _ _ _ ~ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. RETURN COMPLETED APPLICATION TO: Lundeberg School of Seamanship, Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075. 10/95 �Holiday Greetings Via the LOG Volume 57, Number 10 October 1995 Where will you be for the holiday season? Whether at sea or ashore, Seafarers and their families can send holiday messages to their friends and loved ones through the LOG. Seepage 7. Matthiesen Seamen Save Sailboat Crew 'Brotherhood of the Sea' Thanked for Immediate Response Seafarers aboard the Richard G. Matthiesen battled 15-foot seas and 30-knot winds to come to the aid of a distressed sailboat crew whose risk of sinking in the turbulent Mediterranean Sea seemed imminent. On July 8, the Matthiesen was en route to Thule, Greenland from St. Theodore, Greece when Captain Severin Samuelsen picked up a distress call from the 37-foot sailboat Rapa. The two-person crew of the badly damaged trimaran was requesting help to repair their starboard hull, which had filled with water after the safety hatch was ripped off by the violent wind and waves. "We are alive and unharmed today to write you this letter, thanks to the captain and crew of the Richard G. Matthiesen," the couple from Minneapolis wrote in a letter to Ocean Shipholding, Inc., which operates the Matthiesen. On July 7, Judi Milton and Eugene Baker Jr. departed Mallorca in the Balearic Islands (located east of the Spanish coast) and were sailing across the Mediterranean Sea for Tunisia. Due to tumultuous weather, the Rapa crew decided to tie down their main sail to reduce the amount of canvas exposed to the brutal winds. Not long after the change of sails, Milton and Baker "felt something different" in the way their boat was handling. They realized that the safety hatch had disappeared and the starboard hull was flooding. Within seconds, it was filled with sea water and the Rapa began listing severely. Milton and Baker were able to maneuver the Rapa windward to reduce the chances of the sailboat immediately capsizing. However, they were in need of help and put out a dis- radio] by asking questions about our travels and other conversational topics. This did much to 'normalize' what moments ago i ll~~~~ ~~had been a desperate situation," ~~ recalled Milton. Once the hull was cleared of sea water and again on the lines, First Assistant Engineer Andrew Hayden climbed down ~~ii into the sailboat with a round metal plate and the tools and sealants required to repair the area where the safety hatch had been. ''The repairs were made quickly and efficiently, and the Rapa crew was very thankful," recalled Johns. "We were all glad to see a happy ending to what might have been a disaster. If we hadn't arrived when we did, ~~Ill!'.'-! they would have never saved their boat. In fact, if we had arrived any later, we would have had to pluck them from the sea, if they could have survived," he The sailors aboard the badly damaged trimaran Rapa sent out a distress call requesting help to repair their said. starboard hull, which had filled with water after the safety hatch was ripped off by violent winds and waves. Thankful Rapa Sails On A quick survey was done of hers of the deck department reassured the two sailors by tress call. e condition of the Rapa o en"We thought that if the began immediate preparations for radio that it would not be long sure it was seaworthy before the weather did not worsen and the an emergency rescue operation. before help arrived. Matthiesen continued its jourWorried about damaging the "We didn't know what to exboat did not break up under the ney to Greenland. pect at first because the captain sailboat's badly listing mast by enormous stresses, we could The Matthiesen crew left a corning in close to the windhold on and wait for help. How- told us we were going in to asrotary hand pump, the reward side of the boat, the capsist a small craft that had been ever, no offers were immedimainder of the sealant and a tain circled the Rapa to ately forthcoming, and we were badly damaged in the rough bag of rags on board the large seas," recalled the bosun. "How- determine the next move. beginning to think we would Rapa in case of further Bosun Johns and the deck ever, the weather conditions have to abandon the Rapa in problems. Chief Steward Dante crew were ordered to stand by were so horrible that we were favor of our lives," the two Slack offered the Rapa crew doubtful we'd find the crew still in order to secure and aid the wrote. fresh food and water for their in their vessel. We got out all of Rapa as necessary. Meanwhile, 50 miles southjourney. "We cannot describe how our rescue equipment in case east of the foundering sailboat, Captain Samuelsen provided of your huge and unwieldy one we had to get anyone out of the the Matthiesen picked up the the Rapa with an updated ships looks from four feet off water," Johns noted. distress signal and began weather fax to further advise the water. The Matthiesen put ''The ship's crewmembers preliminary measures to assist kept in constant communication herself to windward of us, offer- them of dangerous sea condithe Rapa. ing a welcome wind/wave break tions. He warned Milton and with us, and were calm, warm and tlien, in reverse, nudged its Baker that~ once clear of the and professional as they Matthiesen to the Rescue ship, sea conditions would be bow to gently meet ours," neared," recalled Milton. "In Once notified by the captain, the meantime, while I was worse than before. recalled Milton. Bosun Harry Johns and memHowever, the Rapa safely Bosun Johns threw lines warm and dry on the radio, returned to the Balearic Islands down to the Rapa, and deck Eugene was safety-strapped to 24 hours after the rescue. The the shrouds, chest-deep in break- department members handMatthiesen kept radio contact secured them to avoid ripping ing waves trying to crawl out to with the Rapa crew until they the opening-well underwater- out the sailboat's deck cleats. disappeared on the horizon. Other members of the deck to fit a [plastic] pitcher we had ''The weather continued crew were holding a rolled-up found to fit the round hole." rough for another day-and-afire hose on a rope to keep the With the Matthiesen not yet Rapa's port bow from scraping half, and we know the boat on the scene and with the incould not have survived the seas creasingly unfavorable weather the hull of the Matthiesen. if not for the captain and crew A pilot ladder was dropped conditions, Milton and Baker of the Richard G. Matthiesen by the bosun, and Chief Enlaunched their inflatable life gineer Peter Gorman went down who decided to divert and resraft, gathered the emergency cue us. It was something that radio beacon, flares, life jackets onto the damaged sailboat with would be easy to ignore, hoping water pumps, hoses and rags. and other emergency supplies someone else would go through With Baker, he began the and prepared to abandon ship. the trouble to save our lives and About three-and-a-half hours pump-out operation. After apour boat. Mediterranean proximately 30 minutes, the after initial contact with the AFRJCA "Congratulations on having of the hull began rising out tanker, Milton and Baker Sea in your employ such a responwater, and the entire crew spotted the Matthiesen on their sible and skilled captain and cheered from the Matthiesen' s radar screen. crew aboard the Matthiesen. deck above. The Matthiesen was apYou are in good hands as well," "All crewmembers were L-----~-------------...lo..-~--__, proximately three nautical miles concluded the grateful Rapa working and watching out for The Richard G. Matthiesen was on its way from Greece to Greenland from the Rapa when Captain crew. when it picked up a distress call from the Rapa, off the coast of Mallorca. Samuelsen spotted them and our safety and calmed me [by � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 1990-1999 Description An account of the resource Volumes LII-LXI Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993; Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource October 1995 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES MEMBERS PUSH FOR PASSAGE OF U.S. SHIP BILL AFL-CIO CALLS ON CONGRESS TO RETAIN CABOTAGE LAW MEMBERS PUSH FOR PASSAGE OF U.S. SHIP BILL AFL-CIO CALLS ON CONGRESS TO RETAIN CABOTAGE LAW SIU, SHIPPING COS. URGE COAST GUARD TO REINSTATE COMMITMENT LETTERS HURRICANE MARYILYN INTERRUPTS SHIPPING SIU UIW-DIVISION MEMBERS ON ST. THOMAS LOSE HOMES ORGULF COOKS PASS CULINARY COURSE WITH FLYING COLORS RED CIRCLE CREWS RATIFY 3-YEAR PACT NEW CONTRACT APPROVED BY CAPE FEAR SEAFARERS LNG TAURUS RECOGNIZED FOR EXCELLENT SAFETY RECORD SIU PROTESTS JAILING OF NIGERIAN UNIONISTS TANKER SAFETY COURSES CONTINUE THROUGH ‘96 HURRICAN UNLEASHES FURY IN CARIBBEAN SEAFARERS ALWAYS READY ON THE CAPE WRATH REMEMBERING THE SEAFARERS OF WWII REMEMBERING THE SEAFARERS OF WWII ACTIVE IN EVERY THEATER, MERCHANT MARINERS FACED DANGER AND DEATH MATTHIESEN SEAMEN SAVE SAILBOAT CREW ‘BROTHERHOOD OF THE SEA’ THANKED FOR IMMEDIATE RESPONSE Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 10/01/1995 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 57, No. 10 1995 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/7545830816e5e0d5bf545cbdc8ece805.pdf 42da9145aba799db88daceb6c78ea95c PDF Text Text Volume 57, Number 9 September 1995 • v Contract Win by Bay Ship Management Results in New Jobs tor Seafarers _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Page3 Union to Crew Two More T-AGOS Vessels USMMI Will Operate 1OOceanographic Ships _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Page3 U.S. Ship Measure Cleared For Action by Full Senate Hause Also Set ta Debate Maritime Revitalization _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Page3 �2 SEAFARERS LOG SEPTEMBER 1995 President's Report Workers Lose With NAFTA It didn't take long. Clearly, it appears that the labor movement's predictions that the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFfA) would become more of a raw deal with each passing day were on the mark. . . The losers in this tariff-removing trade deal between the Uruted States, Mexico and Canada are workers and their families. The winners are the rich heads of multinational companies that own Mexican border plants exporting goods to the U.S. under the protection of NAFfA. The AFL-CIO has closely monitored NAFfA's impact since it was enacted in January 1994. Extensive research by the American federation of trade unions spotlights NAFfA's cataclysmic effect on workers and the U.S. economy. Already, the U.S. Department of Labor has received petitions from 70,000 American citizens who are out of work because of NAFTA. And those are just the people who went through the process of a~plying Michael Sacco for retraining benefits. Undoubtedly, many others whose Jobs have been exported to Mexico haven't been counted. As for claims that U.S. exports to Mexico have increased under NAFTA, they are nothing more than statistical fraud. The bottom line is that before NAFfA, America had a big trade surplus with Mexico. Since NAFf A, that surplus has become an $8.58 billion deficit. So I say to NAFTA's supporters, don't insult the rest of us with your smoke and mirrors. You fail to acknowledge that, while NAFTA indeed has created some jobs for Americans, this country is losing a greater number of jobs because of NAFfA. It's a case of taking one step forward and three steps back. Behind the statistics are Americans who suffer because of the corporate greed that narrowly propelled NAFfA into law. As one example, take the more than 4,000 workers who used to be employed at the Zenith Corp. television plant in Springfield, Mo. According to longtime employees at the plant, the company during the 1980s strongly intimated that if workers didn't accept wage cuts and other reductions, the factory would be moved to Mexico. Since Zenith was one of the largest exporters of jobs to Mexico during the past 10 years, the workers in Springfield had every reason to believe the threat. In 1987, those employees agreed to an 8.2 percent wage cut and a five-year contract extension. Four years later, Zenith informed the workers that 75 percent of them would lose their jobs due to a "consolidation" of operations to Mexico. In that same letter, a Zenith executive had the gall to assure the remaining workers, "There is a future for Zenith in Springfield." This past February, Zenith-a prominent member of a pro-NAFfA corporate lobbying group-closed the plant and slithered off to Mexico. It's important to realize that many of the displaced American workers from Zenith and other plants had held their jobs for years, some even decades. It's almost a sure thing that if they do find new jobs, their pay and benefits won't compare to their previous levels. That means severe economic hardship for their families. Mexican workers are suffering, too. With the combination of NAFfA and the meltdown of the peso, official estimates state that as many as 700,000 Mexican people have lost jobs. Literally tens of thousands of Mexican kids known as "street children" are either homeless or are put to work begging by their parents to bring home money. The one area showing any robust economic growth is along the U.S .-Mexico border, where the maquiladora plants-notorious for their poverty-level wages and unsafe working conditions-have become Mexico's top cash generator. Most of the more than 2,100 export-to-the-U.S.-only border assembly plants are owned by Americans but are located on the Mexican side of the border. More plants are opening each week, and employment has swelled to more than 600,000. Despite all evidence that NAFfA is a disaster, its supporters insist that by the year 2000, we will see jobs created. Stick around, they say. Just give it some more time. Sorry, but those of us in the maritime industry know all about unfair foreign competition and its effect on U.S. employment. It only gets worse. We've been experiencing it-and warning of the dangers-since the end of World War Il. Ever since then, the U.S.-flag maritime industry has been fighting runaway-flag shipping. This plague hasn't gone away. In fact, it's gotten stronger. Today it affects not just the United States, but also other maritime nations like Japan, Norway and Germany. In the '70s and '80s, steelworkers and other blue-collar employees felt a similar pinch as they watched their mills shut down because of cheap, exploited foreign labor. And now, NAFfA is causing more U.S. manufacturing plants to close as the devastation of America's industrial base continues. As the SIU joins with our brothers and sisters throughout the American trade union movement in continuing the fight to revitalize this nation's blue-collar work force, remember that labor's opposition to NAFfA was not an opposition of fair trade. Rather, we maintained-then and now-that the only way free trade can be fair trade is if workers to have the right to protect themselves and to organize. The right way to engage in free trade is to allow workers to have the ability to raise their standards. That's why the AFL-CIO helps workers in other countries organize labor unions. And that's a big reason why labor opposed NAFf A. The AFL-CIO didn't want America to be involved in a treaty that fails to include meaningful provisions that would ensure fair treatment of workers. This includes being able to make a fair wage, work in a safe environment and have a voice in the workplace. Unfortunately, NAFTA will serve as a benchmark for future trade agreements. But as Congress and the administration consider expanding NAFfA to include Chile and perhaps the other South America~ countries, f!le American.la~or.movement will do everything in its power to convmce the legislators that 1t 1s time to learn from NAFTA's mistakes. Before the U.S. signs any other trade agreements, the AFL-CIO must be assured that foreign workers will have the ability to fight for fair working conditions that will make their standards higher. When that happens, then the ships and trucks will be full-whether they're entering or leaving the U.S. Senate Names Conferees For Legislation Exporting AK Oil on U.S. Tankers Five members of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee have been appointed to serve on the joint HouseSenate conference committee to iron out differences in legislation passed by the two chambers that would allow exports of Alaskan North Slope crude oil as long as it is carried on U.S.-flag tankers. Named by Senate Majority Leader Bob Dole (R-Kan.) to be members of the conference committee are Senators Frank Murkowski CR-Alaska), Mark Hatfield (R-Ore.) and Pete Domenici (R-N.M.). Appointed by Minority Leader Tom Daschle (D-S.D.)tothecommitteewereJ. Bennett Johnston (D-La.) and Wendell Ford (D-Ky.). Murkowski, who serves as the chairman of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, introduced the Senate version Volume 57, Number 9 of the bill (S. 395). The House is expected to name its members of the conference committee shortly after Congress returns to Washington, D.C. following its Labor Day recess. The conference committee is expected to meet and propose compromise legislation during September. Crafting Compromise Legislation Action by the conference committee is needed to create a compromise bill after the Senate passed S. 395 by a 74-25 margin on May 16, while the House approved a slightly different version (known as H.R. 70) 324-77 on July 24. In theiroverwhelming support for the legislation, both the House and Senate approved language ending the 22-year export ban on foreign sales of Alaskan North September 1995 The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 0160-2047) is published ~1' monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District; AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Second-class postage paid at MSC Prince Georges, MD 20790-9998 and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Managing Editor, Daniel Duncan; Associate Editor/Production, Deborah A. Hirtes; Associate Editors, Jordan Biscardo and Corrina Christensen Gutierrez; Art, Bill Brower; Administrative Support, Jeanne Textor. Progress of Legislation For the Export of Alaskan Oil On U.S.·Flag Tankers To Do: Completed: D Gr Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Hearing, March 1 D [}]"' Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Mark-Up, March 15 [M House Resources Committee Hearing, May 9 D Slope crude oil provided it is Senate Approves Bill (S.395), 74-25, May 16 transported aboard U.S.-flag D ~ tankers. [Q' D House Resources Committee Mark-Up, May 17 In testimony given to both the D LlV House Approves Bill (H.R. 70), 324-77, July 24 House and Senate, the SIU announced its support for the expor~ D Bills Sent to Conference Committee to Iron Out tation of the Alaskan oil as long Differences as it is carried on American-flag g House and Senate Consider Revised Legislation D tankers. The union dropped its long-standing opposition to ex~ D President Signs If Measure Passes House and Senate porting the oil last year when language was introduced to use a.__ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ ____. U.S.-flag vessels. The SIU noted - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - , the legislation would provide jobs Russian Maritime Workers Visit Algonac Hall for American mariners and keep the U.S.-flag independent tanker fleet sailing into the next century. The differences in the bills passed by the House and Senate deal with matters not related to the transport of the oil. The contrasts include funds for West Coast shipyards and the sale of the Alaska Power Administration. Under the rules of Congress concerning a conference committee, the legislators can accept or remove any of the provisions in the two bills. Once a new bill is crafted, it will be presented to both chambers for a vote. If passed by both the House and the Senate, the bill would go to the A merchant mariner and a dockworker from Russia recently president for his signature. President Clinton has stated he learned firsthand about U.S. maritime hiring halls and American would sign such legislation. The trade unions through a program organized by the AFL-CIO's Free Department of Energy has en- Trade Union Institute (FTUI). Conferring atthe SIU hall in Algonac, dorsed lifting the export ban as Mich. are (from left) Russian maritime workers Alexander Polovnikov and Yuri Kurnakov, Leah Nayman of FTUI and SIU VP Great long as the oil was moved on Lakes Byron Kelley. American-flag tankers. �SEPTEMBER 1995 SEAFARERS LOG 3 SIU to Crew 5 Army Support Ships Bay Ship Management Gets Contract to Operate Refitted Containerships Seafarers will begin climbing the gangways of five roll-on/rolloff U.S. Army prepositioning vessels starting next year after the Military Sealift Command (MSC) awarded an operation and maintenance pact for the ships to SIU-contracted Bay Ship Management. The five vessels, former Danish-flag Maersk containerships, are being fitted with cranes and RO/RO decks and converted to U.S. standards in two domestic shipyards. The MSC expects the conversion process to be finished during 1996, at which time Seafarers will board the ships to prepare them for their missions. The contract between the MSC and Bay Ship Management is for three years, with two oneyear options. It will begin when the vessels are in their predeli very stage, anticipated to be January. Prepositioning Fleet Experience Besides crewing 13 similar vessels for the U.S. Marine Corps, Seafarers already are serving aboard the Army's first two prepositioning ships, which are designed to carry enough supplies and materiel to outfit an Anny brigade for 30 days in the event of an immediate call to action. The LTC Calvin P. Titus and SP5 Eric G. Gibson sailed to Saipan last spring after the two former Maersk vessels were brought under U.S. registry and upgraded to American standards. In analysis conducted after the Persian Gulf War, military officials have stated they discovered how valuable the Marine Corps' prepositioning fleet proved to be when U.S. troops were ordered to Saudi Arabia in August 1990 following Iraq's invasion of Kuwait. The SIU-crewed prepositioning vessels stationed at Diego Garcia sped to the Middle East to arm the Marines as they were arriving from the United States. These ships, as well as other U.S.-flag, civilian-crewed vessels, continued to carry the bombs, bullets, tanks, food and other items necessary to sustain U.S. forces during the buildup, fighting and aftermath of the Persian Gulf War. Testifying before the Senate Surface Transportation and Mer- studies conducted by the military chant Marine Subcommittee on following the Persian Gulf War July 26, the head of the military's that cited the need for an enlarged logistics command verified the prepositioning fleet that could need for the prepositioning deliver materiel quickly in the event of a war or national emerRO/RO ships. "Prepositioning of equipment gency. He added that acquisition afloat is key to our flexibility in of prepositioning vessels responding to contingencies in "remains the Department of widely separated theaters," U.S. Defense's highest sealift Air Force General Robert L. priority." The five ships joining the Rutherford? head of the U.S. Transportation Command, told Army prepositioning fleet will be named the USNS Shughart, USNS the senators. Rutherford referred to several Gordon, USNS Yano, USNS Gil...,.........,,,,,"""""'"_..,,.........,,,..,...,_.....,......,......_ liland and USNS Soderman. Like the Titus and Gibson, they are named after Army Medal of Honor .recipients. Sustai'n 24 Knots The vessels range in length from 907 to 954 feet. Each ship will have at least 316,000 square feet of cargo space designed to transport tanks, trucks and other vehicles as well as containers loaded with supplies. They will be able to sail at a sustained speed of24 knots. After Union Company Wins Bid for T-AGOS Vessels USMMI to Run Two Additional Ships i lll ~ The USNS Yano is one of five Maersk Line ships being refitted as roll-0n/roll-off vessels for use in the Anny's afloat prepositioning fleet. The top photograph shows the USNS Yano in its current state as a Danish-flag containership. An artist's conception shows the USNS Yano after it is refitted as a RO/RO prepositioning vessel. The first of the five refitted vessels is expected to be crewed by Seafarers in early 1996. Maritime Revitalization Cleared For Consideration by Senate Painting the deck of the USNS Victorious, one of 1OT-AGOS vessels now operated by SIU-contracted USMMI, are, from left, OS Abe Alvarez, OS August Raquedan and Bosun Jeffrey Yap. By a unanimous voice vote, the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee marked up a bill designed to provide funds for U.S.-flag containerships over the next 10 years. The August 10 bipartisan action clears the way for maritime revitalization legislation to be considered by the full Senate later during this session of Congress. The Maritime Reform and Security Act of 1995 (S. 1139) is similar to a bill waiting consideration by the House of Representatives. Both bills are for 10 years and would provide $1 billion during that time to help fund approximately 50 U.S.-flag containerships. The companies receiving the money would make the vessels and intermodal facilities available to the military in times of war or national emergency. In testimony before both the House and Senate, the SIU has stated its support for such legislation. The House version (H.R. 1350) cleared the House National Security Committee on May 24. In early August, the committee submitted its report on H.R. 1350 to the House. This step was needed so the bill could be placed on the House calendar for debate and vote. Two more oceanographic vessels owned by the U.S. Navy's Military Sealift Command (MSC) will be crewed by Seafarers following the agency's awarding of an operation and maintenance contract to U.S. Marine Management Inc. (USMMI). In announcing the decision, the MSC added the USNS Loyal and USNS Effective to the fleet of eight T-AGOS vessels already operated by USMMI. The basic contract is for three years, but the MSC has the option to extend the pact twice, each time for one year, which means the SIU-contracted company could sail the U.S. Navy oceanographic vessels for up to five years. USMMI has been operating various vessels in the T-AGOS fleet since 1989. "Over the years, USMMI has run a good operation," SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez stated. ''Their work, and that of the Seafarers who crew the ships, has been rewarded with the MSC contracting two additional T-AGOS vessels to USMMI." The awarding of the T-AGOS contract to USMMI marks the third major MSC pact won by SIU-contracted companies this year. In May, Bay Ship Management received the award to continue operating the eight fast sealift vessels for up to five years. MSC named Bay Ship Management in August to operate five U.S. Army prepositioning vessels, also for up to five years. (See story above.) The first T-AGOS vessel, the USNS Stalwart, began sailing in 1984. The MSC started using civilian crews aboard the ships a year later, when Seafarers signed on the Stalwart in April 1985. SIU members have crewed that vessel ever since. According to the MSC, the T-AGOS vessels played an important role in the Navy's antisubmarine warfare program during the Cold War with the former Soviet Union. Today, the ships are used for worldwide ocean surveillance under the direction of the Navy's Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command. Provide Sealift Capability Other T-AGOS vessels operated by USMMI include the USNS During the mark-up session Able, USNS Assertive, USNS Bold, USNS Capable, USNS In(which prepares a bill for its next domitable, USNS Prevail and USNS Victorious. Commerce Committee Chairman Larry Pressler (R-S.D.) supported maritime revitalization legislation during the committee session. Senator Trent Lott (A-Miss.) introduced the U.S. ship bill for consideration by the Senate Commerce Committee. level of consideration), Senator The senator who also holds TrentLott(R-~ss.),chairmanof the second highest ranking posi- the committee's Surface tion in the chamber as the Tra~sportation a~d Mer~hant majority whip, stated, "We have Manne Subc~~tt~e, said S. 113? . would e~tabhsh a new man time secunty progralll: to preserve and promote an active, privately owned and U.S.-crewed vessel presence in international commerce. It would provide for a sustainmentofsealiftcapability." Lott noted the importance of sealift by quoting retired General Colin Powell, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff during Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm, who called the capability "the fourth arm of defense, someth in g we really do need to preserve." an opportunity after 20 years to, this year or early next year, get a real maritime reform and security piece of legislation." Support of Maritime Labor Lott introduced s. 1139 two weeks after holding a subcomittee_ ~ea~ing o~ maritime ~evitalization. D~ng tha! hearmg, SIU Pr~sident Michael Sac~?· speakmg on behalf .of mant11~1e labor,. told t~e legislators, .we remain convmced the expenditure of such funds to sup- Connnued on page 11 �4 SEAFARERS LOG SEPTEMBER 1995 Federal Court Sets Date To Hear Work Tax Appeal ---- cou&T OP AP1'EAL5 IN 11IE UNITED =---- SIU Continues Fight Against Fees for Z-Cards The fight to stop the U.S. Coast Guard from charging merchant mariners a fee for their documen ts and licenses will resume in the federal court systern in November. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia has set November 7 as the date to hear oral arguments in a case originally filed by the SIU, other maritime unions and five individual mariners in 1993. The Coast Guard is challenging U.S. District Court Judge Louis F. Oberdorfer's ruling of November23, 1994 that it cannot collect a $17 fee for background checks conducted by the FBI. The Transportation Department agency will be arguing that point in the November 7 hearing. Wh i le the Coast Guard stopped collecting the fee for the background check as of Decem- being issued z-cards and licenses. However, Judge Oberdorfer also ruled that the Coast Guard wouldhavetorecalculatetheway it charges for these items. He agreed with the SIU' s contention that the method used to determine the fees was flawed. Finally, the judge called on the Coast Guard to stop charging mariners a $17 fee for background checks, conducted by the FBI, when they apply for a documentorlicense.Henotedthebackground checks did not benefit the seamen and boatmen but were for "primarily maritime safety." Based on Judge Oberdorfer' s decision, the SIU and other plaintiffs filed on January 20 their intention to appeal with the U.S . Court of Appeals. ST!!~b OF coLt.'MBIA f0ll 'TRt DIS•.- would save the Coast Guard time and money in its process to recalculate the fees charged for documents and z-cards. (The agency still has not finished its work to create a formula to calculate the fees despite assurances earlier this year that such work would be completed by July.) Feeslmplementedin'93 The federal agency began collecting fees for z-cards and licenses on April 19, 1993 . The charges ranged from $35 for an entry-level merchant mariner's document to $250 for an upperlevel license. Four days earlier, the SIUalong with District 4-National Maritime Union/MEBA, District No. I-Marine Engineers' Beneficial Association, American Seek Overturn Maritime Officers, International The plaintiffs, in a brief sub- Association of Masters, Mates ber 5, 1994, it still refuses to issue mitted on September 1, asked the and Pilots, Sailors' Union of the refunds to mariners who were appeals court to overturn Judge Pacific, Marine Firemen's Union charged such the $17 prior to that Oberdorfer' s decision permitting and five individual marinersdate. The SIU continues to call on the Coast Guard to charge a fee filed a suit in the U.S. District the Coast Guard to issue refunds for z-cards and licenses. They Court for the District of Columbia based on the decision made by the repeated the stand made in the to stop such an effort, claiming it district court judge. lower court "that licensing and was an illegal work tax on Meanwhile, the SIU and the documenting is 'related primarily mariners. otherplaintiffsinthecaseareap- to the safety of merchant The Coast Guard claimed its pealing a decision issued by vessels"' rather than a benefit be- justification for such fees came Judge Oberdorfer that the Coast stowed upon the mariners. from the Omnibus Budget ReconGuard could even charge a fee to In the appeal, the plaintiffs ciliation Act of 1990. That bill, seamen and boatman for mer- also point out that this would be which was designed to reduce the chant mariner's documents (also the firsttime that a federal agency federal deficit, removed a known as z-cards) and licenses. has been allowed to charge a fee longstanding prohibition on The judge determined that such a for issuing an occupational charging fees for z-cards and fee could be collected by the license. licenses. In 1991, the agency anagency because the seamen and The plaintiffs noted that an nounced a proposal to charge boatmen derived a benefit from early decision in their favor fees which the SIU challenged. ---------------------------·---------- l ~ ' The SIU continues to challenge the Coast Guard's ability to charge merchant mariners for their z-cards by proceeding with a lawsuit in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia. ======================== Coast Guard Probes Cruise Ship Safety The U.S. Coast.Guard has The task force also will iden- mvesttgatton ts m response to fo_ur recent pa~senger vessel !llishaps that required the offloadmg of those o~ board. Rear Adrmral James C. Card, the Coast Gu~d' s chief <;>f marine safety, secunty and env1ronmental protection, formed a cruise ship safety review task force that the U.S. Coast Guard. And finally, the task force will make recommendations for improvements as required and work with the industry to implement the adopted recommendations. On June 10, the Royal Majesty ran aground eight miles east of Nantucket Island, Mass. More than 1,500 passengers and crewmembers had to be evacuated from the Panamanian-registered vessel when it grounded in sand some 17 miles west of its normal shipping lane. On June 18, 1,759 passengers and 600 crewmembers were taken off the Celebration, a Carnival Cruises vessel, when a fire in the cruise ship's engineroom control panel knocked out electrical power and the propulsion system. Passengers and crew remained on the disabled vessel for days before another cruise ship arrived to rescue them. On June 23, the Star Princess, a Princess Cruises passenger ship, ran aground on a rock near Juneau, Alaska, forcing the evacuation of 2,226 passengers and crew. On July 22, the Regent Star of Regency Cruises, suffered a engineroom fire while cruising Alaska's Prince Wi1liam Sound. All 1,280 passengers and crew had to be taken off the ship. launch~d a probe •!Ito saf~ty tify possible safety system inconre~ulat10_ns governmg cru1~e sistencies within the cruise ship ~hips ?alh!lg a.t l!.S. ports. This industry and issues of concern to • Matson I 0 Purchase 6 APL Sh1ps :e~~!~~;s~:isthJo~~~i ~tf f;~~ MarAd Ap~nroves 3fior Domestic Trades l:' . . . The U.S. Maritime Administration (MarAd) last month approved the transfer of three American President Lines (APL) vessels to Matson Navigation Co. Matson also agreed to purchase three other containerships from APL. Both companies have manning contracts with the Seafarers. Their respective boards this month are expected to finalize the transfer agreement for the C-8 containerships President Hoover, President Grant and President TylerandtheclassC-9Presidents Lincoln, Monroe and Washington from APL to Matson. Matson reportedly will pay nearly $170 million under terms of the agreement, which is to include the sale of certain APL assets on the island of Guam, as well as a spacesharing arrangement on some of the ships. Since APL is in the process of breaking out six new foreign-flag ships and has threatened to reflag its entire fleet unless Congress and the administration pass a maritime revitalization bill this year, the transfer probably saved hundreds of U.S. shipboard jobs. Matson intends to operate the Ready for Next Pick-Up I Captains Alva Holmes (left) and Mike Stamm prepare to take their Pilot Services' vessel out to the mouth of Mobile (Ala.) Bay to pick up an outbound pilot . por:ifective immediately, the task force, comprised of Coast Guard vessel inspection, investigation, analysis and standards specialists, will begin inspection reviews of all cruise ships currently operating in U.S. waters and embarking from U.S. ports. Approximately 125 cruise ships will be under review by the federal agency. Under present federal regulations and international agreements, cruise ships operating in U.S. waters are examined four times each year, and the crews are subjected to comprehensive drills. If a vessel or the crew on board does not meet the standards, the ship is prohibited from sailing until it can comply. The Coa')t Guard task force will review the trends within the cruise ship industry to identify possible factors leading up to the four recent incidents. C-8.ships rn the domestic trades December. 1, for a penod not to exceed six months per ves~el. Th~ c<;>mpany needed MarAd s penruss10n to d~ so ~ecaus~ the vessels w~re bu_Ilt with ~e aid ~f construction differenttal subsidy (CDS). Under U.S. law, subsidy-built ships may ternporarilr enter the domestic trad~s only ~1th MarAd approval and 1f the shipowner.repays the CDS on a prorated basis. B.ecause each of th~ C-8s is neanng 25 years of service, Matson soon won't need MarAd's further approval to operate them in the ~omesti~ trades. In accordance with section 506 of the Merchant Marine Act, MarAd determined that the vessels reach 25 years ?n the following dates (after wh1c~ ~o f~her ~overnment penruss1on is reqmred to operate in the domestic trades): President Hoover, July 15, 1996; President Grant, September 19, 1996; and President Tyler, March 2, 1997. Matson reportedly will place two of the C-8 ships into its Pacific Coast Shuttle service. Meanwhile, the C-9s and one C-8 will operate between the West Coast and Asia, including port calls in Hawaii and Guam. As part of the sale agreement, Matson will use most of the cargo space on voyages to the islands, The Coast Guard will be stepping up inspections of foreign-flag cruise while APL will use the majority ships like this one leaving San Francisco Bay, following a series of of space on the return trips. mishaps on other ships that departed from American waters. be~mnmg �SEPTEMBER 1995 SEAFARERS LOG 3 More Tanker Safety Courses Coast Guard Finalizing Are Open to Seafarers in_1995 New Tankerman Reg Rule Changes Testing Methods Future tanker operation/safety courses will feature oil spill/hazmat prevention and recovery training (as in photo above). These sessions have been praised by Seafarers as extremely worthwhile. While the Paul Hall Center is finalizing its 1996 course schedule, Seafarers aheady have the opportunity to take the Harry Lundeberg School's tanker operation/safety class before the end of this year. Three more sessions of the four-week course are scheduled for 1995, beginning on October 9, November 6 and November 20. A complete Lundeberg School course schedule and registration information appear on page 23. The tanker operation/safety class also will be included in next year's schedule. Last month, 56 Seafarers completed the tanker operation/safety class. Fifty-two other upgraders currently are enrolled in the course, which blends hands-on training with classroom instruction. The class is mandatory for all Seafarers who sail aboard tankers, as specified in Seafarers Appeals Board (SAB) action number 376, which was published in the April issue of the Seafarers LOG. (An amendment to the SAB appears on page 8 of this issue.) Students often have cited the confined-space entry and rescue segment as well as the oil spill/hazardous materials (hazmat) prevention and recovery training as course highlights. Each of those week- long sections features extensive practical training. Many other topics also are covered, including the study of tanker construction, general tanker safety, and chemical and physical properties of petroleum products. Seafarers also review sections of the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (OPA '90) and examine the flammability traits, toxicity/asphyxiation characteristics and health hazards associated with exposure to petroleum products. Additionally, upgraders practice monitoring tanks for oxygen deficiency and taldng other meter readings with atmospheric monitoring equipment; create shipboard safety plans; perform fit-tests using respirators; and receive an introduction to fire chemistry, firefighting and fire/emergency duties. Other subjects include oil-removal contingency plans, use of federal information guides designed to aid mariners, and rules for protecting the marine environment. Lundeberg School instructors developed the class in response to regulations stemming from OPA '90. It is open to all Seafarers and, as was agreed during negotiations between the union and SIU-contracted tanker companies, includes handson training and classroom instruction. The U.S. Coast Guard early this month is expected to finish reviewing comments regarding a new regulation that affects the training and certification of unlicensed merchant mariners involved in the handling, transfer and transportation of oil and other hazardous liquid cargoes in bulk aboard ships and barges. As part of that final review, Coast Guard officials were meeting with representatives of the SIU when the Seafarers LOG went to press. The main purpose of the meetings was to help finalize the new testing and certification procedures. Published in April as an interim final rule, the new regulation is scheduled to take effect March 31, 1996. It defines qualifications of tankermen and other seamen involved in cargo operations. The rule requires such mariners to obtain from a Coast Guard-approved testing facility one of the following four endorsements: tankerman-person in charge (PIC)(barge), restricted tankerman-PIC (barge), tankerman-assistant or tankerman-engineer. Mariners will have to meet standards established by the Coast Guard (with input from the industry) for amounts of experience, completion of training courses and physical fitness in order to obtain such certification. The Coast Guard Regional Examination Centers have not yet begun issuing the new endorsements. They are expected to start issuing them in the near future. The Seafare rs LOG next month will publish specific information about when the endorsements may be obtained. According to the regulation, the Coast Guard no longer will conduct tankerman exams. Instead, the agency will certify schools (such as the Paul Hall Center's Harry Lunde berg School of Seamanship) and possibly operators to give the tests. In another change from the current system, the new tankerman tests will include practical (hands-on) testing, so that mariners will have to demonstrate their skills in transferring liquid cargoes. The Coast Guard has proposed the following courses (a tankerman would need to take one or more, depending upon which type of vessel he or she sails): a 40-hour tankship/ dangerous liquids course, a 40hour tankship/liquified gases course, a 40-hour tank barge/dangerous liquids course, a 40-hour tank barge/liquified gases course and a 16-hour firefighting course. The agency also is strongly considering what amounts to a grandfather clause, through which a mariner could obtain one or more of the new endorsements by either submitting discharges proving at least 30 days of deck service on a tanker (with a discharge date within five years of the date of application), or submitting a letter on company letterhead from the owner, operator or master of a vessel attesting that the applicant has served at least 30 days of deck service on tankships within five years of the application date. The new tankerman endorsements will be valid for five years. It is likely that if the grandfather clause is utilized, then a mariner who obtained certification through that clause would be required to successfully complete one of the new courses in order to renew the endorsement. For those who initially secure an endorsement by successfully completing a new course, the procedure for renewal probably will consist of producing evidence of having performed two cargo transfers within a specified period. The rule partly stems from the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (OPA '90), but also has roots in other legislation (the Port and Tanker Safety Act) dating back approximately 15 years. Its intent is to improve safety in the handling, transfer and transport of hazardous liquid cargoes. Although the rule's full effect on the Paul Hall Center's curriculum will not be known until the Coast Guard finalizes it, the school aheady offers a number of hazardous materials courses and firefighting training which seemingly could be adapted to f\Illy meet the new requirements. In accordance with the regulation, the school also may request that certain classes or parts of classes be counted toward a Seafarer's fulfillment of the new requirements. In the confined-space training portion of the tanker course, Seafarers SIU members who plan to take the four-week tanker operation/safety course will practice proper use of simulate a rescue of a fellow crewmember. protective equipment, including breathing gear. 5 �---------------~-------- · -- - -- - 6 - SEAFARERS LOG SEPTEMBER 1995 Lease Extension for Queen Mary Keeps Jobs for SIU Affiliate Union • The SIU-crewed Osprey is one of six ocean-going Allied tugboats covered by the new three-year contract. Allied Seafarers Ratify New Three-Year Pact SIU members who navigate Allied Towing tugs and barges ratified a new three-year contract that includes wage and benefit increases as well as improved working conditions. The new agreement, which began September 1, covers Seafarers who sail aboard the company's six ocean-going tugboats and one coastal tugboat. Representatives for the Norfolk, Va. based company and the SIU held three negotiating sessions at the Norfolk union hall in August. The union's delegates to the talks were able to secure, for the first time, out-patient medical care for the spouses and dependents of the SIU members who sail aboard the Allied Towing vessels. The Seafarers also will receive wage increases throughout the life of the contract. Delegates to the talks included Captain Bobby O'Neill, Captain Dexter Moore, Chief Engineer Richard Naigle, Mate Carl Moore, Deckhand/Cook Bill Hudgins and Deckhand/Cook George Bourcier. They were joined at the negotiating table by SIU Port Agent Mike Paladino. "Negotiations went excellently," Paladino told the Seafare~s LOG. "We got everything that we asked for. All across the board this is an excellent contract. The membership was extremely satisfied and voted accordingly. They got it~·" the port ag~nt added. . . While the company's operations are based m Norfolk, its eqmpment can be found along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts. The six ocean-going tugs include the Falcon, Sea Ha~k, ~ea Robin, Sea Tern, Socrates and Osprey. The Petrel operates pnmanly between Philadelphia and Hopewell, Va. but can be called to other coastal ports along the Atlantic seaboard if needed. The tugs transport raw sugar, gasoline, oil, Phe!lol (a che~cal used in a variety of items from cough syrup to plastics) and vanous other chemicals and petroleum products. A Meeting of the Cooks A 20-year extension of the lease for the Queen Mary Seaport will keep members of the United Industrial Workers Union (UIW), an affiliate of the Seafarers International Union, working aboard the famous ocean liner and its surrounding complex well into the next century. The UIW represents housekeepers, chefs, waiters and waitresses, hostesses, bartenders, hotel clerks, operators, cashiers, bellhops, doormen and maintenance and groundskeeping personnel at the seaport, which includes the Hotel Queen Mary· The City Council of Long Beach, Calif. last month authorized the lease extension following two hours of debate over the historic ship's future. Thecurrentfive-yearleaseforthe passenger liner-turned-hotel, where hundreds of UIW members are employed, expires in February 1998. "The new lease puts us all at ease?" stated Housekeeper Dee Manneau, who. has been a ~W member for eight years. We know now that 'Ye have steady employment with the queen Mary for the next 20 years. "I am hopeful that now that we have a 20-year lease, we can put the Queen Mary and the surrounding acreage on sound footing," stated Joseph Prevratil, presiden.t of the .non-profit RMS Founda~1on, which operates the seaport m ~ng Beach. PrevratH noted that the long term l~as~ was needed to l.ure potential i~vestors to the cityowned tounst complex and to add much-needed attractions. . The 55 acres surroundmg the seaport will be develop~d by Prevratil. Part of the area is the Spruce Goose Dome, a la~ge ~tructure next to the hotel which is the former home of Howard Hughes' Spruce Goose airplane. The complex would be perfect f~r a special-event center, Prevrattl said. While Prevratil provided few details of his plans for development, he did note that he intends to add new attractions to the ship, bring special events to the dome, build a maritime museum and attract more merchants to the marketplace area of shops next to the ship. At the city council meeting last month, some opposition to the lease extension was raised, I Hundreds of members of the SIU-affiliated United Industrial Workers work at the Queen Mary Seaport, which includes the Hotel Queen Mary. but supporters of the Queen Mary spoke out in overwhelming support of the deal. "If ever there were a piece of American heritage that is in our hands, it's right here in Long Beach harbor," Linda Howell, president of the Long Beach Convention and Visitors Bureau said. The new lease contains safeguards giving the city power to approve Prevratil' s subleases and financial partners. After hearing that such provisions were included in the lease,thecitycouncilunanimously approved the 20-year extension. Immediately following the vote, a group of about 200 people, including UIW members Long Beach Chamber of Co~merce members merchants and other supporte~ of the Queen Mary, burst into applause and gave the city council a standing ovation. "The council really listened to us. It is all about jobs, and this is a really good deal. I think that in time the Queen Mary Seaport has the power to double-maybe even triple-the current number of Queen Mary workers," UIW National Director Steve Edney said. Marineau added, ''The meeting was fantastic. The entire council believes in the Queen Mary. We are all very happy." Prevratil' s Queen's Seaport Development Inc. will hold the lease through December 2015. He will pay $300,000 a year or a percentage of gross receipts of the seaport, whichever is the greater amount. The lease also calls for the establishment of a maintenance fund with a beginning balance of $5 million. All of the lease payme!1ts would be deposited into the mamte!lance fun?. . While Prevratil will pay for all regular maintenance, the city will assist in any repairs over $1 million by drawing on the established maintenance fund. "The union has al ways believed in Mr. Prevratil because he has always been true to his word and he has always listened to what the union has to say," Edneypointedout. 'Wesaidthatthe area needs jobs and this deal will help us create more jobs by building up the Queen Mary complex." Queen Mary Seaport features the Hotel Queen Mary (the former ocean liner, now permanently docked) and also ineludes a shoreside gallery of boutiques and restaurants. The Queen Mary reopened in June 1993, following a lengthy, intense struggle during which UIW members joined with other local residents, businessmen and elected officials in protesting the possible sale and overseas relocation of Long Beach's only major touri~t a~ction. . Smee its grand reoperung, the Queen Mary has established itself as a major attraction. In fact, the RMS Foundation released a financial statement earlier this year which verifies the success of the Queen Mary Seaport. It reported that the complex earned a profit of nearly $800,000 during the final three months of 1994. For the year, the operation's revenues reached almost $19 million. . In arguing for the extens10n ~f the Queen Mary's lease, Prevratil pointed out that the Queen Mary produces hundreds of jobs and an $8-10 million yearly payroll. The majority of the employees live in Long B~ach and ~erefo~. boost local .tax revenue, m ~d~tton to spendmg. money on th~ city s goods and services, Prevratil added. Tying Up a Turecamo Tug The wearing of life vests is mandatory on the docks at Mo~re's Landing, Mo., from which location Orgulf tugs and barge~ navigate up and down the Mississippi River. On a recent servicing call by SIU Rep. Becky Sleeper (left), the cooks aboard two of the tied-up tugs meet with her on the pier. They are Terry Godden (center), cook aboard the Olmstead, and Barry Cheeks, cook on the JD Geary. Deckhand Bill McDourgh ties up the tug Carly A. Turecamo at the Hess f?il terminal i~ Delran, N.J., near Philadelphia. The boat is operated by Turecamo Coast/Harbor Towing Corporation. �SEPTEMBER 1995 SEAFARERS LOG Refrigeration Technician Course Still Available at Piney Point The Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education periodically is offering its two-day refrigeration technician certification course at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. The class, which is approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), is for SIU members who handle refrigerants. Passing the exam that immediately follows the course will result in a Seafarer obtaining government-mandated certification for handling refrigerants. The deadline for securing such certification was November 14, 1994. During the six months prior to the deadline, and for several months afterward, the Lundeberg School repeatedly conducted the refrigeration technician course at SIU halls throughout the country and at Piney Point. However, if an SIU member who sails as a QMED, electrician, refrigeration engineer, junior engineer or any other rating involved in the repair and servicing of shipboard refrigeration equipment and air conditioning systems has not obtained the certification, he or she should take the class as soon as possible. Bill Eglinton, director of vocational education at the Paul Hall Center, noted that when possible, the center has been conducting the course after regular school hours for students who already are attending upgrading courses at Piney Point and who are required to have the certification. "If an upgrader is here for another course, we will try to accommodate him or her by making the refrigeration certification class available on week nights or weekends," he stated. However, any members who need to take the refrigeration technician course at the Paul Hall Center but are not taking another upgrading class must pay their own expenses. Members who want to take only the refrigeration technician class should contact J.C. Weigman at the school at (301) 994-0010 for the latest information on course dates. In addition, Seafarers who plan to take another upgrading course and who also need the refrigeration technician class are requested to indicate this on their Lundeberg School enrollment application. As part of the refrigeration technician class, Lundeberg School instructor Eric Malzkuhn (left) and QMED Gary Frazier review proper procedures for maintenance work on air conditioning equipment. Nedlloyd Holland Crewmembers Come to Aid of Lone Boatman While many people celebrated the Independence Day holiday with barbecues and fireworks, Seafarers sailing aboard the Nedlloyd Holland did much more. They became heroes. In a letter sent to the Seafarers LOG, Chief Mate M .P. Shoemaker described a quick and efficient rescue by the Nedlloyd Holland crew of a Jone boatman who had been drifting for four days, 300 miles off the coast of Maryland. Shoemaker wrote that AB Larry Garvin was on the bridge of the Sea-Land Service vessel when the Seafarer spotted what he thought to be a sea buoy adrift. Because Garvin was unsure of what was floating in the distance, he notified the captain. The captain decided to turn the ship in the direction of the object and sail closer to investigate. "As we got closer, we saw one man aboard a small boat, frantically waving a red shirt in an attempt to gain our attention," recalled Garvin. AB Jim Rush was painting on the deck when he and other deck department members were notified that a small craft had been spotted on the port side of the ship and they were to prepare for a rescue. "I don't know how Larry spotted it," said Rush. "It was so far away and it took a while for us to recognize the boat as being more than just trash or debris floating in the sea. Larry was really on top of it. I'm not sure if I would have thought it was anything," the AB said. Garvin noted that after VHF contact proved futile, speed was reduced and the ship was manuvered beside the 30-foot craft. Under the direction of Bosun Freddie Goethe, a line was passed to the boat by ABs Rush, Serafin Milla and Wayne Driggers. AB Milla climbed down the pilot ladder onto the boat and assisted the passenger, who had only one arm, uptothedeckoftheNedlloyd Holland. "It was a strange situation," recalled Garvin. "He said his engines got flooded and he had been drifting for days. The place he said that his engines flooded was about 100 miles off the coast of Maryland. That means he drifted for more than 200 miles. "When we found him, he didn't have anything. No life jackets, no survival devices. It was a disgrace. Even his radio was without batteries. It was pure luck that we saw him and were able to help," said the Garvin. According to Rush, after the man had been brought safely aboard the Nedlloyd Holland, the chief mate and Milla were sent down into the craft to salvage what was left of the boater's belongings. They found only assorted fishing equipment and a few articles of clothing. Once all crewmembers were back on deck, the U.S. Coast Guard was contacted, and the bosun was told to cut the lines to the boat. The rescued boatman was given dry clothes by Rush and Driggers, and the galley gang prepared a special meal. "It was a really fast rescue. Everything went perfectly," recalled Garvin. "Everyone did a great job and worked hard together to bring him to safety. From the captain and the chief mate to the bosun and the rest of the crew ... we all pulled together and did an exceptional job," said Garvin. Rush echoed Garvin's statement concerning the speed and efficiency of the crew, and they both complimented each other's role in the rescue. While Garvin called Rush "the real hero," Rush noted that it was Garvin who first spotted the distressed boat and brought it to the attention of the captain and crew. "I'm just an ordinary seaman," said Rush. "But the captain and entire crew of the Nedlloyd Holland are the best, and it takes a situation such as this to prove what I have known all along." The rescued boatman remained on board the Nedlloyd Holland until the vessel arrived at the port of Rotterdam. He thanked the crew and boarded a plane for home, 10 days after the rescue. Seafarers who work for Crowley in Puerto Rico prepare for a rally protesting the newly enacted labor measure. From the left are Louis Ferrer, Pablo Navarro and Pascasio Rivera. Seafarers Join Protests Against Puerto Rican Labor Law Reversals Seafarers have joined with thousands of other Puerto Rican trade unionists to protest a measure passed by the island's assembly and signed by the governor that turns back 50 years of worker advancements. Dubbed the '1abor reform law'' by the elected officials, the legislation changes the way Puerto Rican workers are paid and modifies their working conditions. Protests, rallies and information campaigns have been held weekly by the Puerto Rico AFL-CIO since Governor Pedro Rossello signed the bill on June 30. The legislation reverses more than a half-century of rights fought for and won by Puerto Rican trade unionists. The new measure will cut overtime, reduce rest periods between shifts and eliminate cash payments on payday among other things. 'The SIU has really become involved in this fight," said Santurce Port Agent Steve Ruiz. ''While the law will not directly affect our deep sea union members, it will certainly affect many of our union brothers and sisters in Puerto Rico. We must stick together for the rights of the workers," the port agent stated. According to Marilu Sanchez, a representative for the SIU of Puerto Rico, Caribe and Latin America (a shore-based union affilitated with the SIUNA), the concentrated protests staged by Puerto Rican workers have caused the Rossello administration to take notice and re-think their policy toward labor laws. The governor has said he will give the new measure six months to work. If the people still are opposed to it, Sanchez said the governor may be willing to reconsider the legislation. Sanchez, whose union would be affected, added that the law is part of Governor Rossello's plan to make Puerto Rico a more competitive marketplace. "The workers are very unhappy," noted Sanchez. "After 50 years of fair labor laws, this government wants to change everything." Labor officials have referred to the Rossello administration as being anti-labor and anti-worker, according to The San Juan Star. The officials also have said they are considering other actions to call attention to the plight of workers in Puerto Rico. In late June, more than 1,000 delegates representing more than 50 Puerto Relaxing in the crew lounge following the rescue of a boatman 300 miles off the coast of Maryland Rican-based unions unanimously approved a general work stoppage to protest the "labor reform" legislation. are (from left) Bosun Freddie Goethe, AB Jim Rush, AB Serafin Milla and AB Wayne Driggers. 7 �8 SEPTEMBER 1995 SEAFARERS LOG NAnA Nightmare Comes True in America ~~!~~l:~~I~::~;;:~~ The North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFfA) and Mexico's economic crisis already have combined to cost tens of thousands of U.S. jobs and devastate America's former trade surplus with Mexico while enriching the owners of Mexicanbased border plants that assemble goods for export to the U.S. Those are some of the conclusions recently put forth in a report by the AFL-CIO Task Force on Trade. The analysis is based on official U.S. government data. NAFfA is the tariff-removing trade deal among the U.S., Mexico and Canada. It was enacted in January 1994, over the vehement objections of American trade unions (including the SIU) and many other groups. The report reveals that since NAFfA's enactment, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has received petitions involving more than 70,000 dislocated American workers who believed NAFfA caused their unemployment. The DOL already has certified more than 35,000 citizens as experiencing NAFTA-related unemployment, and other certifications are expected to follow. Moreover, an AFL-CIO economist described the 70,000 figure as "the tip of the iceberg, because not everyone who loses a job because of NAFTA goes through the trouble of applying" for retraining benefits. Another point concerns America's pre-NAFTA trade surplus with Mexico. Since NAFTA's enactment, that surplus has become an $8.58 billion deficit, according to the report. (Meanwhile, Mexico continues to receive funding from a $20 billion emergency U.S. credit line.) However, at least one group has benefitted from NAFfA, the AFL-CIO study notes: the owners of the more than 2,100 exportonly border assembly plants known as maquiladoras. Those plants are characterized by extremely low wages and unsafe working conditions. Most are owned by Americans. And they have become Mexico's top cash generator-an average of three new maquiladora plants is opening every week. Last year, maquiladora employment grew by 6.2 percent to more than 600,000 employees, according to the report. Economic Crisis The huge devaluation of the peso late last year and early in 1995 spotlig~ts ~ne of NAFTA:s many defic1enc1~s .. The peso s plunge also ~ultiplie~ .many of the trade deal s provlSlons that are ~ost harmful to U.S. workers. Nme months before NAFTA becan:ie law, .AFL-CIO representatives testified before Congres~ that "the recent histo~ of Mex1can ~xchange r~te policy, together with economI~ pressure, suggests that devaluation (of the peso) is inevitable." Despite .such warnings, NAFTA spec1fically.e~cludes exchange rate po1Ic1~~ from cover~ge. If s~ch policies had been mcluded m NAFTA, then the U.~. would ~a~e had more ~f a say m e~tabhshing the peso s value relative to the dollar, because America "would have been in a position to dampen the volatility of the currency markets," observed Mark Anderson, director of the AFL-CIO's Task Force on Trade. Instead, as the AFL-CIO analysis notes, ''The peso became grossly overvalued in large part because it was effectively pegged against the dollar even as Mexican rates of inflation were much higher than rates of inflation in the U.S. Thus, while the real value of the peso declined relative to the dollar, Mexican governmentpolicy did not allow this to be reflected in the official exchange rate. The overvalued peso contributed to a surge in imports to Mexico by making them artificially inexpensive, and contributed to an accountdeficitforMexicoinexcess of $29 billion in 1994." The man behind _the eff~rt ~o prop up the peso is Mexico s fo~er p~es.iden~ Carlos Salinas. His admm~st_ration spent 1?-1o~e than. $21 b~llion from ~eXJco s fore1gn capital reserves 1_I1 order to ~ur ~esos to ~eep therr valu~ art1f1cially high. As Rudi Dornb~sch, a professor of eco~omics at the Massachu~etts Institute of Techn.ology who is an expert on ti;~de .issues, told the A~-c;m. Sahnas I>«?r.severed with .his strategy of politics first, re ah ty later, and the peso remai~;d disastrously overvalued. L~s~ Decem.b~r, . w~en Mexico s new adm.imstration 1mplemented a long-overdue devaluation of the peso, it touched off a free fall. By midJanuary,thevalueofthepesohad fallen nearly 50 percent. American exports to Mexico and thus eliminating thousands of jobs in U.S. export industries, states the AFL-CIO report. The devalued peso increased the price of U.S.-made products beyond what millions of Mexican consumers can afford. Meanwhile, since goods made in Mexico became cheaper in dollars, imports from Mexico significantly increased. As a result, America's pre-NAFfA surplus has become a huge deficit. This year, from January to June, U.S. exports to Mexico dropped by 12 percent compared to that period in 1994. By contrast, Mexican exports to the U.S. skyrocketed 29 percent. The pattern is expected to continue. "For U.S. workers, especially in manufacturing industries, devaluation can only mean the loss of more jobs" points out the report by the fed~ration of U.S.based trade unions. "At the new exchange rate, the Mexican real hourly compensation for production workers in manufacturing would be only about one-twelfth of that of the United States." The report further notes that for the U.S. worker whose job moves to Mexico, "it is unlikely More Lost Jobs that he or she will find employAs a result, the price of U.S.- ment opportunities that pay made products bought with pe~os wages and be~efits anJwhere has increased, thereby reducmg near the level paid by the JOb lost. Efforts Under Way to Stop Bill Reducing Runaway-Flag Liability Runaway-flag companies are seeking to undo one of the few protections crewmembers and passengers have who sail on foreign-flag vessels: the ability to take advantage of the United States legal system to redress grievances. SAB Issues Seniority Clarification For Graduates of Tanker Ops Class The Seafarers Appeals Board (SAB) has issued a clarification regarding seniority status to action number 376 which was printed in the April 1995 edition of the Seafarers LOG. Action number 376 calls for shipping priority to be given to members who have successfully completed the tanker operation/safety course given at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. However, the action did not specifically note that priority would be given only within each class of seniority. The amendment to action number376, which was signed on July 11, specifies that as of January 1, 1996, priority for jobs aboard tankers and tank vessels will be given within each class of seniority to those members who show proof of graduating from the tanker operation/safety course. The SAB, which is composed of representatives from the union and its contracted companies, also implemented two new additional actions. Action number 379 modifies the trip reliefs, permanent ratings provision of the shipping rules. The new action allows a member with a permanent rating to retain his or her job if the mariner is taking a training class to comply with federal law or regulations that runs longer than the normal timeoffthevessel. Finallr, action number 380 ineludes time away from work while being treated on an outpatient basis to reduce the amount of days needed during a calendar year to keep seniority status. Until the action was taken, only inpatient care was listed within the shipping rules. The three proceedings undertaken by the SAB are reprinted in their complete text. hardship and a. re.ductlon m ~e sta~~ar~ of hvmg for theu fanuhes. Such is the case in Springfield, Mo., where Zenith Corp. earlier this year shut down a television plant that once employed more than 4,000 citizens. Zenith, which lobbied in support of NAFfA, sent most of those jobs to Mexico. U.S. workers in non-manufacturing fields are affected, too. For instance, in Laredo, Texas, daily truck crossings to Mexico carrying American exports have plummeted almost 25 percent. Not coincidentally, the unemployment rate in Laredo has reached a 16year high of 14 percent. Press reports state that this example is emblematic of what is happening all along the American side of the border. The AFL-CIO has asserted that the pending negotiations to possibly expand NAFfA to inelude Chile provide an opportunity to redress some of the defects in the current agreement. In particular, the federation insis ts that policies on worker rights,laborstandardsandcapital markets must be improved. At the same time, the AFLCIO will continue both monitoring the effects of NAFTA and making the~ ~ow!l to Congress and the adlTilmstration. all departments, priority for jobs aboard tanker and tank vessels covered by these rules shall be giventothoseseamenpossessing a cer:tificate of satisfactory completwn of the Tanker Safety Course offered by the Seafarers Harry Lu_nd~berg School of Sea_~ns~zp, . zn the eve!!t such traznmg is being offered. Action #379 A provision slipped into the Coast Guard Reauthorization Act (H.R.1361) shortly before the bill was passed overwhelmingly by the House of Representatives in May would prevent foreign mariners access to U.S. courts, blocking their ability to enforce time-honored rights to wages and necessary medical treatment for injuries. The language also reduced the liability of runawayflag passenger ships' owners sailing out of U.S. ports with regard to injuries and injustices to passengers traveling on the vessels. The main purpose of H.R. 1361 was to provide funds for the activitiesoftheU.S.CoastGuard. Many members of the House wereunawareofthecontroversial language added to the bill, so H.R. 1361 passed without debate or discussion. The Senate now is considering its own funding bill (S. 1004) for the Coast Guard. As the Seafarers LOG went to press, the language reducing the liability of runawayflag ship owners had not been ineluded in the Senate measure. 13. Trip Reliefs. Permanent Ratings (a), add the following to paragraph 7. By mutual agreement, the Union and the Employer may Amendment Action #376 modify the seaman's tour of duty If the Senate agrees with the Whereas the Seafarers Ap- when assigned to a training pro- House language, foreign peals Board promulgated a gram that conflicts with the marinersworkingaboardforeignchange in the Shipping Rules as a vessel's operational schedule. registered ships that dock in U.S. h d ports would no longer be able to if result o Agreements reac e at Action #3SO file a suit in a U.S. court for comthe 1993 negotiations with the pensation caused by work-related AMA Standard Tanker negotiaTo be consistent with the intent tions, and and purpose ofShipping Rule 1 F. injuries or to seek back wages. Whereas, the Board promul- concerning employment credit The provision (known as section fi · ds he · Ni 430) of the House bill would d gates rules that are intende to or peno w n a seaman zs ot reverse maritime law that has enhance and protect the job FitForDuty; thesecondsentence security oifthe membership, and should be amended to read as fol- been upheld by U.S. courts since this nation was founded and Whereas, after farther review lows. the Board has decided to amend "Forexample,four(4)months repudiate decisions in foreign the Shipping Rules as follows. in- or out-patient time during a lands going as far back as the Article IX, Shipping Rules, 5 given calendar year reduces the creation of English common law. Preferences and Priorities, will ninety (90) day employment reThis point was made by be amended by adding a new 13, quirement for that year by one- Maritime Trades Department which shall read as follows. third to sixty (60) days." (MTD) President Michael Sacco "Effective January 1, 1996; in a letter urging the Senate to not within each class of seniority in July 11, 1995 adopt Section 430 in its bill to Senator Larry Pressler (R-S .D. ), chairman of the Senate Commerce Committee. (The MID is composed of 40 unions and 28 port councils representing 8 million workers.) Sacco, who also is president of the SIU, noted that section 430 reverses two centuries of maritime law which has recognized the right of all seafarers to pursue claims for wages and necessary medical treatment in U.S. courts. "Time and time again, the U.S. Supreme Court has zealously guarded this minimum level of protection for seafarers at sea or in foreign ports. Without continued access to_U.S. courts, foreign seafarers Will have few, if any, alternative means of protecting their basic rights," Sacco continued. Sacco added, "Section 430 will exacerbate the disadvantages that American-flag operators face when they compete against convenience flag carriers employing cheap, foreign labor." Father Sinclair Oubre, a member of the SIU and president of the North American Maritime Ministry Association, an association of 175 agencies serving seafarers in North America, also wrote expressing his concern with the section to Sen. Pressler. In urging the chairman to exclude section 430 from the final bill, Oubre noted, "Since maritime law was first recorded, seafarers have been assured that if they fell ill or were injured while in the service of the ship, it would be the duty of the ship to provide the best care possible as well as salary during their recuperation, up to a specified length of time; and this protection has been enforced by the courts of the port states into which the vessel sails." �SEAFARERS LOG SEl'TEMBER 1995 9 Leaming Is the Key, Graduating Stewards Tell Fellow Seafarers Six members of the steward department advised their fellow Seafarers to learn everything they can about their jobs in order to be prepared for the future. The galley gang members, who were taking part in the August membership meeting at Piney Point, Md., had just completed five weeks of steward recertification training at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. The steward recertification course is the final rung in the SIU steward department educational ladder. Speaking to the other Seafarers gathered in the school's auditorium, Oswald Stoiber, the oldest member of the class at 54, from the port of San Francisco, told the audience, ''It is never too late to learn something new. You have to keep an open mind and bend with the wind, or you will break." Following up on Stoiber' scornments was Matthew Scott who sails from the port of Houston. After noting that some representatives of the government and maritime industry are scrutinizing everything done by mariners, Scott stated Seafarers need to maintian their reputation as the best. "Don'tjustdo a good job," the steward stressed to those Seafarers in the audience, "Do the best job you can to ensure a job for tomorrow!" Adding to the importance of Seafarers knowing how to perform their jobs aboard ship was Francis DiCarlo Jr. "If we don't do the best job we can out there, they won't want us," the steward from Brooklyn said. I Showing off their entries in a chili cook-off are recertified steward class members (from the left) Instructor Ed White, Matthew Scott, Vainuu Sili, Ozzie Stoiber, James Harper, Instructor Allan Sherwin, Dorothy In order to do the best possible Carter and Francis Dicarlo Jr. Learn New Recipes jobs while at sea, the six stewards added new recipes and cooking techniques to their repertoire through classroom and hands-on training while at the school. Among the ideas passed along by instructors Allan Sherwin, Ed White and others were ways to prepare healthy menus for crew- members as well as utilizing base sauces and soups to create variety in meals. The six Seafarers also received special classes on the handling and preparation of seafood, poultry, meats and produce. To assist them when ordering stores, the stewards received training in the school's computer center. With many SIU-contracted companies tracking their stores through computer programs, stewards now are able to place orders through the machines rather than writing them out by hand. While specialists in galley procedures and cooking, the stewards recognize their responsibilities as members of a crew. To this end, the six galley gang members took refresher courses in CPR, first aid and firefighting. They also received instruction in communication skills. The six conducted questionand-answer sessions with repres en ta ti v es of the union• s contracts, communications, government affairs and welfare, training, vacation and pension fund departments. These meetings provided the Seafarers with the latest information from each department that they could take back to crewmembers aboard ships. 'Do Your Best' After thanking the union for the opportunities it bas provided him since he finished the trainee program at the school in 1982, James Harper, who sails from Wilmington, Calif., informed the assembled Seafarers, "I encourage every member to press on and do your best.•• The other stewards also stated their appreciation to the school and the union for making upgrading courses available. ''This has been the biggest step of my life,,, Vainuu Sili of Honolulu told the audience. "I hope and pray it will continue forever." Sili, who began his seafaring career in 1969 as a graduate of the old Marine Cooks and Stewards training school in Santa Rosa, Calif., noted, "We must support our union. Your support will help us keep our jobs." Dorothy Carter took the time to thank all of the instructors involved in the course. "This has been fantastic," recalled the steward from Jacksonville, Fla. "I have been able to learn so much and can't wait to get back to work.,, Like Father, Like Son Recertified Steward DiCarlo Follows in Father's Footsteps James Harper (right) practices his CPR technique as classmate Matthew Scott takes notes. When he walked across the stage last month at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship to receive his certificate as a recertified steward, Francis Dicarlo Jr. is believed to have been the first steward department Seafarer to follow in the steps of his father. Fifteen years earlier, Francis DiCarlo Sr. graduated as a recertified steward. That same year, 1980, DiCarlo Jr. was finishing his work in the trainee program at the school. Before his fellow Seafarers, DiCarlo Jr. stated how proud he was to be the second generation in his family to reach the highest level of training offered to galley gang members by the SIU. "I want to thank my father, who really got me started," said the 34-year-old steward from Brooklyn. "I was born SIU and will probab1y die SIU." He remembered that on his third ship, the Sea-Land Long Beach, he was able to sail with his father. "I didn't get any special privileges. He didn't cut me any extra slack, but I en- joyed it," DiCarlo said of his father. The younger DiCarlo said he will work hard to uphold the family name within the union. Francis Dicarlo Jr. thanks his father, Francis DiCarlo Sr., for helping him get started in the SIU. The father and son (inset) sailed together in 1981 aboard the Sea-Land Long Beach. �10 SEAFARERS LOG SEPTEMBER 1995 Fishing Is a Favorite Off-Time Hobby in Diego Garcia I RIGHT: The American Merlin is part of the U.S. Military Sealift Command's prepositioning fleet. Dozens of privately owned fishing boats, which carry up to five passengers apiece, may be rented in Diego Garcia by American Merlin crewmembers in their time off. When sailing in Diego Garcia, Recertified Bosun Tony Trikoglou (left and above) spends some of his off-time fishing for red snapper and other catches. During a recent trip in Diego ' Garcia aboard the prepositioning ship American Merlin, Recertified Bosun Tony Trikoglou found some time to engage in one of his favorite hobbies. A number of his shipmates joined him in the fishy (but not peculiar) activity. "We don't have much spare time, working seven days a week," noted the 33-year member of the SIU. "But when we do get a few hours off, a lot of us like to grab a fishing rod and play." Trikoglou and other crewmembers from the U.S. Military Sealift Command's (MSC) fleet of prepositioning ships based in Diego Garcia occasionally rent one or more of the dozens of privately owned fishing boats at the small island in the British Indian Ocean Territories. ''There are two sizes of boats. The bigger ones can take five people. They provide the rods, you provide the lures," noted Trikoglou, who graduated from the Paul Hall Center's bosun recertification program in 1985. Last spring, Trikoglou and other unlicensed mariners as well as officers from the American Merlin (which is operated by Osprey Acomarit) enjoyed a number of bountiful catches. Trikoglou's hauls included a 32pound barracuda and an 11pound red snapper. He and others also caught wahoos and jacks. Most of the catches were cleaned and cooked by members of the ship's steward department, and consumed by all who wished to partake. "I've fished all my life," said Trikoglou, 62, who joined the SIU in Baltimore and who provided the photos accompanying this article. "It's something I truly enjoy." But the bosun emphasized that he and his fellow Seafarers who sail aboard the ship anchored in Diego Garcia spend the vast majority of their time working, even as the temperatures there routinely exceed 100 degrees. "We have (military) exercises every two weeks and practiceconvoys once a month. We do maintenance, repairs and other upkeep. Butnomatterwhatwe're doing, safety is our top priority." Trikoglou added that all crewmembers realize the importance of manning the prepositioning vessels, which must be ready to sail, fully loaded, at a moment's notice. The military' s prepositioning fleet is comprised of privately owned Americanflag ships under charter to MSC. Many of the ships are loaded with cargo for the U.S. Marine Corps. During a recent visit to SIU headquarters, Trikoglou stated that he would like to continue sailing for "at least another year or two," even though he already has accumulated enough seatime to retire with a full pension. "I'm still healthy," he said. ''What shall I do if I retire, sit and watch TV all dayT' Chief Cook Jeff Sanchez displays 70 lbs. worth of catch after a recent fishing trip. Bosun Tony Trikoglou lifts a 32-pound barracuda that he caught in May. Oiler Fred Gibson hoists a 40-pound wahoo. AB Tim Duggan tests his grip as he lifts a 30pound barracuda. ABOVE: Grilling the day's catch and other food is Chief Steward Wayne Wilson. RIGHT: Chief Cook Steve Dickson keeps an eye on dinner. Heading for the galley with a snack is Chief Steward Charlie Roldan. Crewmembers American Merlin enjoy the fruits of their fishing labors during a cookout on deck. , AB Jim Keevan makes his contribution to the crew's fishy activity. Pleased with catching a 15-pound red snapper is OMU Pete Rice. �SEPTEMBER 1995 Ii Maritime Briefs SEAFARERS LOG 11 Sacco and Fay Meet With Seattle Membership 11 USCG Designates Lightering Zone In Gulf for Single-Hull Tankers The U.S. Coast Guard recently ruled that single-hull tankers formerly banned from U.S. waters are now allowed to transfer their cargoes to smaller ships in a designated zone near Houston, Texas refineries. Single-hull tankers would be allowed to lighter their cargoes in the South Sabine Point, a zone located 60 miles off U.S. shores. The Coast Guard also designated three other lightering zones in the Gulf of Mexico. In the recent ruling, the Coast Guard stated that single-hull tankers will be allowed to transfer their cargos in the South Sabine Point onto smaller, double-hull vessels that will take the imported oil into U.S. waters until 2015. Under the Oil Pollution Act of 1990, single-hull tankers are being phased out gradually from use in U.S. waters. The other three zones are called Gulfmex, Offshore Pascagoula and Southtex. Gulfmex is located south of Louisiana, Offshore Pascagoula is south of the Alabama and Florida coasts, and Southtex is off the southern coast of Texas. Zebra Mussels Threaten California Agriculture Zebra mussels have invaded California waters and could spread to the state's vast agricultural irrigation system, according to a recent Washington Post report. During the past nine months, state border checkpoint inspectors have found two instances where live zebra mussels have been attached to the water intakes of yachts being transported from the Great Lakes to California. The speed at which the mussels breed may create a big danger to the Golden State's irrigation systems by getting into water lines and clogging them. Scientists report that zebra mussels would do very well in the warm waters of California. The tiny, hard-shelled organisms first arrived in the United States via the Great Lakes from Europe's Caspian Sea in 1986 in the ballast of a European tanker. Within a few years they had infiltrated all the Lakes. While the zebra mussel problem persists in shipping circles, it has spread to the waters across the country. They have caused numerous difficulties, including disrupting navigation by causing marker buoys to sink, ruining fishing nets and grounds, fouling beaches with sharp shells, and blocking water intake systems of many municipalities, utilities and factories. The mussels impede ships by causing increased drag, thereby lowering fuel efficiency. In addition, they harm native mussels and fish by consuming large amounts of algae. Agricultural inspectors at the California border have found live or dead zebra mussels attached to a half-dozen boats arriving by truck from the Midwest since 1993. Unsafe Ships Detained In British Ports SIU President Michael Sacco and Secretary-Treasurer John Fay met with Seafarers in the Seattle hall during the July membership meeting. Gathered for a picture following the meeting are (from left) Fay, AB Joe Frometa, Patrolman Joe Mieluchowksi, DEU Katherine Rivera, AB Allan McCoy, Sacco, AB Tillman Churchman, VP West Coast George McCartney and Asst. VP Bob Hall. Blessings for a Bountiful Year .'' ; Warm weather brought thousands of spectators to the New Bedford, Mass. waterfront and dozens of boats into the harbor for the 26th annual ritual which pays tribute to those fishermen who have died during the past year and asks for protection, good luck and safe and bountiful seas for the year ahead. The highlight of this year's annual blessing of the fleet in New Bedford was the awarding of prizes for the best boat decorations. Following a parade of vessels, the top two places were captured by Seafarers-crewed fishing boats. The first prize went to the Blue Seas II, (above), owned and captained by Antonio Pereira. (It came in second place in last year's contest.) Second place this year was won by the T. Luis, owned and captained by Tony Santos. Eleven foreign ships were detained by British authorities in July after they failed safety checks. Three of those detained were registered in Malta. Of the 11, three were general cargo ships, two were bulk carriers, one was a gas tanker and one was a chemical carrier. Most of those vessels held in port had faulty life-saving equipment or expired certificates of operation. While the number of ships detained last month was lower than usual, Britain's Marine Safety Agency published the names of the ships in an effort to shame the owners into raising the safety standards of their ships. The agency began the practice of publishing the names of unsafe ships last year. Continued from page 3 port the merchant marine will enhance the Pulver Commissions Statue economic, political and military security of our nation." As was done when the House Merchant Marine Oversight Panel held a hearing on the subject on April 6, Sacco told the senators that maritime labor would work with them to pass maritime revitalization legislation. Senate Committee Clears U.S. Ship Bill SIU Representative Ed Pulver (right) and artist Mykola Holody view the bust honoring Filipinos who fought side-by-side with American troops during World War II. Pulver received assistance from Carpenters' Local 6, which donated the base for the memorial. The statue, located in Jersey City, N.J., was unveiled July 30. Vital for ilitary Also testifying during the July 27 Senate subcommittee hearing was the head of the U.S. Transportation Command, which oversees the movement of military cargo by land, sea and air. . U.S. Air Force Gener~ Ro1?frt L. Rutherf~rd rnfo_r~ed. the subcomnntte~, Th~ commercial m~tune i~dustry has and will conti!1ue to play a maJor role m th~ Defense Transport;ation Syst~ma go~emment/mdustry partnership for national secunty. . . . "Just as we did m the [Persian] Gulf War, Somalia and, most rec:ently, back to the Persi.an Gulf, we rely extensively o~ our co~merci~l partners to support our worldwi~~ comrrutments. Rut~erf?~d also n~ted ~~ ~htruJ: depends on the av~1!ab1l~ty of tr~~ c.lVlhan manners to cr~w tht? nnlttary s prepos1t10mng vessels, fast sealift ships and Re~dy Reserve Force vessels. When he mtroduced S. 1139 to the Senate, Lott pointed out the legislation already had strong bipar- tisan support from the bill's sponsors. They include Senators Ted Stevens (R-Alaska), Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas), Olympia Snowe CR-Maine), Ernest Hollings (D-S.C.), Daniel Inouye (DHawaii), John Breaux (D-La.) and Barbara Mikulski (D-Md.). He added the proposal also is backed by the Clinton administration. Snowe deemed the S. 1139 "very, very essential" during the committee session. "It is certainly long overdue and much needed. We need to have a strong maritime industry in this country, essential to our economic well-being," the Maine senator added. Hutchison noted that she supported the bill because of the strong maritime influence in her state of Texas. "We do want those jobs to remain American jobs," she told the committee. Breaux stated that several administrations had worked on maritime revitalization legislation. ''There is no other justification for having a strong merchant marine operating assistance program other than it is partofournational security. It's just that simple. "It is much more efficient, much better, in every sense to have these commercial private ships available than having to have the Defense Department and Navy have these ships just sit up in dry dock and spend millions of dollars keeping them there so they can be used in times of national emergency," he told his fellow senators. No date for Senate action has been set. �12 SEAFARERS LOG SEPTEMBER 1995 World War II Maritime Poster Art Exhibit While the World War II battlefields were located in Africa, Asia and Europe, Americans back home were made aware that they also were part of the war effort, thanks to the thousands of posters displayed in factories, businesses and many other locations. A collection of 25 of these World War II-era posters dealing specifically with the merchant marine is on display at the Paul Hall Memorial Library at the Seafarers Harry Lunderberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, Md. The posters are on loan from the collection of former Seafarer Rendich Meola, who sailed for three years as a deck engineer during the war. The posters involved all aspects of the war-from urging workers to produce top quality goods for the soldiers in the field, to purchasing war bonds, to keeping quiet about any knowledge of troop or convoy movements. Many citizens of that era remember the posters for their graphic and colorful portrayal of life during the war years. The exhibit, which opened at the library in July, will be on display indefinitely. The Sea/are rs LOG will highlight some of the posters from the exhibit in this and upcoming issues. Filling in the coupon below to receive a copy of the 1996 SIU scholarship program booklet just might be the start of something big-the opportunity for Seafarers and their spouses and dependent children to realize their educational goals. Since the inception of the program in 1952, 242 scholarships have been awarded to Seafarers and their dependents, some of whom have gone on to become doctors, lawyers, engineers, pharmacists, librarians, teachers, computer specialists and scientists-most of whom have pointed out that without the SIU' s help, they never would have had the opportunity to pursue their education. This year, as in the past, the union will offer seven scholarships. Four $15,000 awards will be set aside for spouses and dependent children of Seafarers and may be used at four-year colleges or universities. The other three will go to Seafarers; one in the amount of $15,000, to be used over a four-year period, and two for $6,000, which can be applied over a twoyear time frame. Eligibility requirements for all applicants are spelled out in the scholarship program booklet which also contains an application form. Scholarships are awarded on the basis of secondary school records; the college entrance tests (Scholastic Aptitude Test or American College Test); college transcripts, if any; the applicant's autobiography, character references and extra-curricular activities. One recurring theme in the poster art was to alert citizens that enemy spies and saboteurs always were lurking nearby, and that even a seemingly small bit of information regarding convoys could prove useful to the enemy-and fatal to the Allies. Although history shows such warnings to have exaggerated the prevalence of enemy spies, the "don't talk" posters were among the most-often utilized throughout the war. This particular poster was printed by the Office of War Information (OWi). Remember, it will take time to gather all the necessary information and paper- work by the April 15 deadline, so plan ahead. Applicants should also remember that in order for SAT or ACT test results to be available for inclusion in the scholarship application package, the tests must be taken by February 1996. (Applicants should take the appropriate test required by the college or trade school he or she plans to attend.) April 15, 1996 is the deadline for sending in a completed application for review by the scholarship committee. This impartial panel of distinguished professional educators, appointed by the Board of Trustees of the Seafarers Welfare Plan, will-after studying the records and qualifications of all applicants-make the final awards in May or June of next year. Scholarship recipients may use their awards at the institution of their choosing, as long as it is an accredited school in the United States or its territories, and provided also that the school offers standard academic, professional or vocational degrees or certification. The scholarship program booklet describes the process in detail and contains instructions for Seafarers, their spouses and their sons and daughters who wish to be considered for one of the awards. The opportunity is here. Take the first step toward a $6,000 or $15,000 scholarship by sending away for a copy of the current program booklet for yourself or a family member. As merchant shipping was a vital tool for the Allies, some of the posters were directed at recruiting merchant mariners. Many of these posters appeared in and around SIU halls. Thousands of SIU members sailed the dangerous convoys before, during and after the war, and some 1,200 SIU members were among the 7,000-plus merchant seamen who gave their lives during World War II. No matter the danger or the destination, merchant mariners answered their nation's call. The poster at right was printed by the U.S. Government Printing Office in 1944. I I Vi I EXPERIENCED SEAMEN NEEDED! Hard at Work in Retirement r--------------------------~ lease send me the 1996 SIU scholarship program booklet which contains Peligibility information, procedures for applying and the application form. Name~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~- BookNumber~-------------------~ Address ~---------------------­ City, State, Zip Code - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Telephone Number ___________________ This application is for: D Self D Dependent Mail the completedfonn to the Scholarship Program, Seafarers Welfare Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. L __ - _:19~ Joseph "Frenchie" Fruge retired in December of 1994 in Louisiana, and is now keeping busy doing the things he likes best. The former deck department member and his wife, Geri, go fishing every chance they get. They also have a craft business. Frenchie does the cutting and assembly of wooden planters, birds and welcome signs while Geri paints the items. In photo above, Frenchie starts a new project in his home workshop. �SEAFARERS LOB SEPTEMBER 1995 13 Decatur Workers Battle Union-Busting Companies The battle for respectable wages, better working conditions and decent benefits continues to be waged by union members in Decatur, Ill. who are either on strike or have been locked out of their jobs by three major manufacturing companies. Nearly seven percent of Decatur's workforce has been affected by the union-busting actions taking place at A.E. Staley Manufacturing, Caterpillar, Inc. and Bridgestone/Firestone Tires. While members of the United Auto Workers (UAW) have been seeking a contract with Caterpillar since 1991, they walked out of the Decatur facility and three other factories on June 20, 1994 to protest illegal actions by the company. The longest continuous job action in Decatur began two years ago when Staley locked out on June 27, 1993 some 760 Paperworkers when they refused accept the company's demands for reduced working conditions and lower benefits. Rubber Workers recently announced they would end their 10-month strike against Bridgestone/Firestone and return to work without a contract. However, the company brought in thousands of replacement workers during the strike and continues to use the scabs rather than allow the striking workers to resume their jobs. Trade unionists from all over the country have contributed time, money and much more to assist the Decatur workers. Rallies of support, attended by union members, labor officials and other supporters, have been held to focus the nation's attention on the plight of the affected workers as well as how these companies treat their workforce. Thousands participated in the latest march and rally, which took place June 25. State Lifting Tax Breaks Because of the attention drawn to the unionists of Decatur, the state of Illinois has started actions designed to lift the tax breaks given to Staley for operating its plant in the city. Staley, as well as Caterpillar and Bridgestone/Firestone, is located in the town's enterprise zone, where companies receive property tax abatements and credits on their state income taxes for keeping Decatur residents employed. Last year, Staley received a tax break for purchasing new machinery. The reduction was contingent on Staley showing the equipment would save jobs. However, the machinery actually is designed to further automate the facility and reduce jobs, according to the Paperworkers. The lockout at Staley began when union members refused to sign a contract imposing 12-hour rotating shifts, cuts in health benefits and safety conditions as well as allowing work to be subcontracted. Staley, a maker of corn sweeteners and starches, imposed the lockout as part of its drive to slash hundreds of jobs. This July, the union members once again rejected a give-back contract proposal. Union leaders criticized the package for failing to address bargaining issues at the heart of the long dispute. The union was especially unsatisfied with the company's continued demands for unlimited rights to subcontract jobs as well as 12-hour rotating shifts. Seafarers join with other trade unionists, family members and friends to show their support for the 2,500 striking Detroit News and Detroit Free Press workers. On the picket line are (from left) Bosun John Hickey, Wheelsman Walter Szelag, AB Alan Maury, OS Mike Davis and OS Robert Burns. Striking Newspaper Workers Supported by SIU Members Seafarers were among a crowd of 5,000 trade unionists, families and friends who turned out in support of 2,600 striking workers of the Detroit Free Press and the Detroit News. In the sweltering heat of July 17, SIU members joined with other supporters to fill the street in front of the Detroit News building to demand a fair contract for members of six unions represented by the Metropolitan Council of Newspaper Unions. Newspaper workers on strike include drivers, circulation employees, reporters, photographers, mailers, copy editors, artists, graphic workers, press operators, printers and engravers. Algonac Patrolman Tim Kelley noted that the SIU is actively supporting all the striking newspaper workers. "The picket Consumer Campaign Begins lines are really strong," Kelly stated. F0 11owmg · the reJec · f10n of the company ' s offier, the 1ocked-ou t workers esca1ated "Many of their our members going into Detroit on time off toare walk the lines their campaign against one of Staley's biggest customers-Pepsi Cola-which acwith the striking workers. We are supportcounts for up to 30 percent of Staley's sales of corn sweeteners. In an attemptto publicize Pepsi's connection to the Staley lockout and bring an end ing the strike 1OO percent and hope that a settlement will be reached soon. to the situation, workers organized "Action on Pepsi Weekend," August 25-27. "In supporting the unions involved, we According to the union, the campaign against Pepsi has generated thousands of are showing our solidarity-an injury to one consumer protests demanding that the beverage giant stop using Staley sweeteners. is an injury to all," the patrohnan added. A similar union campaign against Miller Beer Co. led to the brewer's announcement last October that it would no longer buy sweeteners from Staley. Contract Expired April 30 Rubber Workers Seek to Return The workers went on strike July 13 after negotiations failed to formulate a new While the actions by the Paperworkers continue, members of the United Rubber agreement. Contracts expired April 30 at Workers are trying to go back to work without a contract following their 10-month the News, Free Press and the jointlystrike. owned Detroit Newspaper Agency, which The Rubber Workers stated they would return to the plant following the National is responsible for the non-editorial acLabor Relations Board's (NLRB) rejection of a union complaint that the strike was tivities of the two papers. over unfair labor practices. (Due to a loophole in the law, it is legal for an employer to Management at the two papers is permanently replace striking workers if it is decided by the NLRB that the dispute is demanding an end to overtime pay; 200 not over unfair labor practices.) job cuts; concessions on health care, sick More than half the 4,000 union workers were permanently replaced as a result of leave and vacation; restrictions on the the strike; however, the company has called back some of the former workers. There grievance procedure; shifting of some fullare still more than 20 charges filed with the NLRB against the company by the union. time jobs to part time without benefits; and Bridgestone/Firestone remains under an international AFL-CIO boycott. the elimination of 1,600 news carriers. Since the strike began, the companies UAW, Caterpillar Resume Talks SEAFARERS have continued to publish the papers using scab workers who have been recruited from around the country. Gannett owns the afternoon Detroit News and Knight-Ridder owns the morning Detroit Free Press. The two companies have hired non-union workers from other newspaper affiliates across the country to replace the striking union members. However, the newspapers have had trouble getting out to the streets. According to the striking unions, only 25 percent of the normal circulation of both papers has been delivered since the beginning of the strike. Stores Pull Ads By July 21, more than 130 advertisers (roughly 90 percent) had pulled their advertisements from the papers in support of the striking workers. Dana Houle, an SIU field representative from the port of Algonac, is currently a member of a committee assisting the striking workers. Committee members have visited more than 300 gas stations and convenience stores in the Detroit area, passing out leaflets and encouraging community support for the strike effort. Approximately 200,000 readers already have canceled their subscriptions, and most Detroit-area store owners no longer sell the papers. Council Creates Fund At its summer meeting in Chicago, the AFL-CIO Executive Council created a $1 million fund to assist the striking newspaper workers who are not currently receiving strike benefits. The federation contributed $100,000 and affiliated unions have promised to raise the remainder. The executive council also approved a plan to use the AFL-CIO' s reserve fund to provide interest-free loans of up to $1 million to any union involved in the strike whose emergency fund is depleted. In an attempt to gain a contract for the first time in four years, members of the UAW -~ INTERNATIONAL . UNION and Caterpillar in late August held their first talks in months. Thousands of UAW members at eight Caterpillar facilities in Decatur and Peoria, Ill. and Denver and York, Penn. have been on strike since June 20, 1994, to protest illegal actions by the company. f_ 'D\ ~ Four years ago, UAW members walked out of factories in the three states after their old agreement expired and contract negotiations between the union and the company stalled. That strike-the first of 11 since 1991-lasted 163 days. Union members returned to work without a contract. Union officials have been attempting to negotiate a fair contract ever since. From the time the workers returned to the Caterpillar plants without a union contract, the company's illegal campaign against the UAW and its members has resulted in a record 130 unfair labor practice charges issued by the NLRB against ~Tt.»{TIC, ()Ul..f.1.A!<ES ,\UD L'ILAND WATERS OtSl>l\Cl. .o.n.-cK> Caterpillar, the world's leading manufacturer of heavy-construction equipment. No U.S. company has ever been charged with so many violations of U.S. labor law. Since the June 1994 strike began, Caterpillar has employed a makeshift workforce of managers, retirees, temporary workers and new hires. Because the strike was called due to the company's unfair labor practices, the workers cannot be lawfully permanently replaced. In May, a U.S. Court of Appeals agreed to allow striking UAW members to participate in Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) inspections of the Caterpillar plants. OSHA has issued more than 70 citations against the company, Joining their fathers on the picket line of striking newspaper workers are Shane Thoruton (left), son of Tugman Don Thoruton, and Dan Kelley, son of SIU Patrolman Tim Kelley. with fines totalling in excess of $500,000. SUPPORTS (_)_)R.F'oRATE_ ~RE:£Di{ SEAFARERS 1JiTERAATIOllA\.1JMON �( - 14 SEAFARERS LOG SEPTEMBER 1995 Crusader Crew Keeps Ship Steaming Along Steaming into San Juan harbor is no different from entering any other port for the crew of the Sea-La.nd Crusader. Tying up means the deck crew will be busy handling loading and offloading operations, the engine department will check on the wear and maintenance of the vessel's steam power plant, and the galley gang will prepare the day's meals. Santurce Port Agent Steve Ruiz, who took these photographs after meeting with the crew, noted all was going well for SIU members sailing on the Sea-Land Crusader during its recent visit to Puerto Rico. The vessel, built in 1969, is a 700-foot containership capable of speeds of up to 21 knots. It can carry both 20- and 40-foot containers. The Sea-Land Crusader is on the "Americas' Service" run which transports cargo between San Juan, P.R.; the Dominican Republic; Kingston, Jamaica; New Orleans; Jacksonville, Fla.; and Elizabeth, N .J. every 28 days. AB Angel Toucet stands watch on the deck of the Sea-Land Crusader during cargo operations in the port of San Juan, P.R. Steward/Baker Nick Andrews checks on a cake in the oven aboard the Sea-Land Crusader. SA Luis Rivera (left) and Chief Cook Leopold Ruiz prepare dinner for crewmembers aboard the Sea-Land Crusader. Guiding an arm for a crane to unload containers from the Sea-Land Crusader while it docked in the port of San Juan, P.R. are (from left) engine department member Rafael Vergara, Chief Electrician Marcial Pedro, AB Antonio Rodriguez, Bosun Luis Perez and engine department member Jose Zayas. Seafarers Return to Sea-Land Expedition Following Layup AB Kirk Cully attends a shipboard union meeting after signing on the Sea-Land Expedition in the port of Norfolk, Va. Seafarers returned to the Sea-Land Expedition recently after the containership had been laid up in Norfolk, Va. for repairs. In preparation for the next voyage, crewmembers took on fresh stores, loaded cargo and performed routine maintenance. Port Agent Mike Paladino met with the crew shortly before the vessel returned to service. He answered questions raised by the members concerning the contract, medical benefits and other union matters. He also reviewed maritime legislation pending in Congress. The 670-foot Sea-Land Expedition then left port to resume its 28day run between the Atlantic and Gulf coasts and the island of Puerto Rico. Chief Steward Eddie Vazquez (left), SA Jose Padilla and Chief Cook Mike Robles sign on the Sea-Land Expedition in the port of Norfolk, Va. following a short layup. During a union meeting aboard the Sea Land Expedition in the port of Norfolk, Va. are (from left) AB Robert Diez, Chief Electrician Tony Negron and OMU Joe Perez. �SEAFARERS LOG SEPTEMBER 1995 Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea JULY 16 - AUGUST 15, 1995 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Cl~ C Port New York 35 Philadelphia 3 4 Baltimore 16 Norfolk 14 Mobile New Orleans 21 Jacksonville 29 San Francisco 23 Wilmington 19 Seattle 23 Puerto Rico 12 Honolulu 7 Houston 30 St. Louis 0 2 Piney Point Algonac 1 239 Totals 21 6 7 13 10 2 3 10 14 19 16 2 2 5 30 3 13 24 2 15 28 1 5 5 1 5 7 1 1 0 1 0 215 57 15 5 1 0 1 3 0 2 0 0 6 0 Port New York 14 3 Philadelphia 2 Baltitnore Norfolk 7 Mobile 6 New Orleans 18 Jacksonville 11 San Francisco 10 Wilmington 6 15 Seattle 2 Puerto Rico Honolulu 0 7 Houston St. Louis 0 1 Piney Point Algonac 0 Totals 102 Port 14 ewYork Philadelphia 0 4 Baltimore Norfolk 3 7 Mobile New Orleans 11 Jacksonville 8 San Francisco 38 Wilmington 11 Seattle 15 1 Puerto Rico 14 Honolulu Houston 12 St. Louis 0 Piney Point 4 Algonac 0 142 Totals 7 7 5 22 19 17 11 17 3 9 11 0 3 1 3 5 0 0 156 18 11 1 2 2 0 1 1 1 3 5 4 14 5 12 0 10 1 3 0 1 1 11 10 I 7 0 0 1 0 93 20 0 3 0 2 1 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Cl~ C DECK DEPARTMENT 3 15 18 4 3 0 5 1 3 15 6 17 27 20 8 25 10 7 28 0 1 1 187 7 9 24 12 8 9 18 1 11 22 I 1 1 150 107 3 6 14 12 14 3 8 18 2 2 6 3 49 12 8 18 25 26 4 2 11 2 10 2 0 2 0 0 11 11 23 23 31 53 33 44 45 31 46 17 42 0 8 39 1 1 0 25 40 107 399 3 0 41 3 2 0 0 0 20 8 2 0 0 1 5 16 4 12 6 1 11 0 1 5 1 2 4 9 3 4 11 1 4 5 5 4 36 45 3 3 6 2 406 35 5 8 11 11 12 28 23 30 12 34 18 30 18 30 24 26 3 7 6 7 9 3 8 11 10 0 1 0 94 5 0 3 5 1 6 1 2 8 0 2 9 3 4 4 5 0 0 1 19 19 5 0 0 3 0 10 0 0 52 234 264 46 8 0 0 28 20 3 1 23 0 4 1 1 4 6 5 14 23 2 12 1 October & November 1995 Membership Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, Inland Waters Piney Point Monday: October 2, November 6 New York Tuesday: October 3, November 7 P~delphia Wednesday: October 4, November 8 Baltimore Thursday: October 5, November 9 Norfolk Thursday: October 5, November 9 Jacksonville Thursday: October 5, November 9 Algonac Friday: October 6; Monday, November 13* *changed by Veterans' Day holiday Houston Monday: October 9, November 13 New Orleans Tuesday: October 10, November 14 Mobile Wednesday: October 1I, November 15 San Francisco Thursday: October 12, November 16 Wilmington Monday, October 16, November 20 Seattle Friday: October 20, November 24 San Juan Thursday: October 5, November 9 St. Louis Friday: October 13. November 17 Honolulu Friday: October 13, November 17 Duluth Wednesday: October 11, November 15 Jersey City Wednesday: October 18, November 22 New Bedford Tuesday: October 17, November 21 Each port's meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals 2 1 ELEFTHERIS KARAOGLANIS 2 Please contact your sister, Christine Purvey, or your nephew, Bob Purvey, at (818) 883-1376. 8 1 3 DAVID LEE "Sonny Boy" MULLER 4 Anyone knowing the whereabouts of David Lee Muller, please contact his cousin, Janie Bovain Jenkins, at 327 Broward Street, Jacksonville, FL 32204; or telephone (904) 388-7892. Mr. Muller shipped from the port of New York and would be approximately 65 years old. Ms. Jenkins last heard from him between the spring and summer of 1945. 2 0 1 8 71 18 12 23 1 IO 20 17 2 3 1 2 4 0 0 4 33 5 23 10 2 19 1 1 16 15 0 1 GARYW. VANSTADEN 0 Please contact the postmaster at the Aylett, Va. Post Office regarding your mail. He may be reached at (804) 769-3306. Ask for Postmaster Stewart Edwards. 1 0 0 1 0 0 2 0 0 98 34 7 0 70 2 14 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 12 5 1 0 1 0 0 1 0 2 5 11 2 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Cl~ B Class C 5 1 1 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 8 1 7 7 0 1 0 I 5 1 6 3 7 0 8 1 12 10 12 10 0 8 0 7 1 1 9 0 9 8 2 0 2 3 I 5 1 17 11 0 0 0 2 0 1 0 0 0 73 Trip Reliefs 15 0 0 8 3 0 0 0 53 20 19 0 7 0 272 5 1 167 ENTRY DEPARTMENT Port 55 23 0 1 4 19 5 25 New York 13 1 2 0 1 3 0 2 3 Philadelphia I 12 I 0 2 0 3 1 8 Baltimore I 18 1 0 8 4 I 9 1 9 Norfolk 2 33 0 4 0 0 0 2 15 Mobile 33 8 0 14 5 4 19 9 New Orleans 5 35 5 0 2 1 1 15 7 2 Jacksonville 43 21 0 2 8 3 13 25 San Francisco 6 34 2 0 11 4 3 5 11 Wilmington 3 34 10 0 1 11 8 3 17 Seattle 9 11 9 0 0 3 1 7 8 4 Puerto Rico 77 8 0 2 2 10 34 24 Honolulu 0 24 3 0 15 0 2 2 17 0 Houston 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 St. Louis 16 1 0 16 0 0 24 0 1 Piney Point 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Algonac 0 432 105 0 23 115 30 101 220 48 Totals Totals All 212 406 58 1%010 1,269 388 196 684 De2artments 531 * ''Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. **"Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. 1 2 0 38 25 3 7 21 2 23 13 24 26 12 16 126 9 0 3 0 310 488 FRANK WONG Anyone knowing the whereabouts of Frank Wong, formerly of 3rd A venue in San Francisco, Calif. and a former crewmember aboard the General Meigs, is asked to please contact Sam H. Boykin at 15055 East Highway 20, Clearlake Oaks, CA 95423. Correction A photo on page 13 of the August 1995 WG was misidentified. The caption should have read: Larayne Koide (right), secretary at the Honolulu hall, assists QMED Bob Powers with his registration. Notice NEW MERCHANT MARINE VETERANS CHAPTER BEING FORMED The High Seas Mariners Chapter of the Philadelphia area is now being formed and is looking for WWII merchant mariners, members of Public Health Services who treated U.S. seamen, Navy Armed Guards who served on merchant marine vessels, members of any U.S. armed services with a DD-214, widows of veterans with a D D-214 and present day seamen. The chapter will be a very active one with luncheon meetings, field trips, social events and other gatherings. For more information, call John J. Corbett at (215) 659-9297 or Captain Frank L. Darling at (215) 324-3486. �16 SEAFARERS LOG Seafarers International Union Directory SEPTEMBER 1995 Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes JULY 16--AUGUST 15, 1995 CL-Company/Lakes L-Lakes NP-Non Priority Michael Sacco President John Fay Secretary-Treasurer Joseph Sacco Executive Vice President Augustin Tellez Vice President Contracts George McCartney Vice President West Coast Roy A. "Buck'' Mercer Vice President Government Services Jack Caffey Vice President Atlantic Coast Byron Kelley Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters DeanCorgey Vice President Gulf Coast HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr. Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 7944988 BALTIMORE 1216 E. Baltimore St. Baltimore, MD 21202 (410) 327-4900 DULUTH 705 Medical Arts Building Duluth, MN 55802 (218) 722-4110 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St. Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St. Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St. Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JERSEY CITY 99 Montgomery St. Jersey City, NJ 07302 (201) 435-9424 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy. Mobile, AL 36605 (334) 478-0916 NEW BEDFORD 48 Union St. New Bedford, MA 02740 (508) 997-5404 NEW ORLEANS 630 Jackson Ave. New Orleans, LA 70130 (504) 529-7546 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave. BrookJyn. NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St. Norfolk, VA 23510 (804) 622-1892 PHILADELPHIA 2604S. 4 St. Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75 Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 2 West Dixie Highway Dania, FL 33004 (305) 921-5661 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St. San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Government Services Division (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop l 6V2 Santurce, PR OO'J07 (809) 721-4033 SEATILE 2505 First Ave. Seattle, WA 98121 (206) 441-1960 ST.LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave. St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave. Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class CL Class L Cla&9 NP Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac 0 16 4 0 9 4 0 5 1 0 18 23 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP DECK DEPARTMENT 52 0 12 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 12 7 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 13 13 0 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class CL Cl~ L Class NP 0 31 13 0 14 4 0 7 1 0 36 50 48 32 Totals All Departments 0 0 77 32 0 88 * ''Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. ** "Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. 68 Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters JULY 16 - AUGUST 15, 1995 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Cla&9 C Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals 3 3 34 0 2 2 14 1 0 5 0 14 42 17 19 2 0 13 0 0 0 9 0 15 9 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 2 5 0 6 3 0 0 4 6 5 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Cla&9B Class C DECK DEPARTMENT 4 0 0 1 1 0 15 3 0 32 2 8 52 6 8 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 1 0 0 0 0 0 13 1 0 0 0 0 14 1 0 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 1 0 1 0 0 2 1 2 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Cla&9 C 14 4 2 5 22 16 9 4 0 6 0 29 49 27 35 2 0 9 0 11 1 0 l2 0 0 0 0 13 1 0 3 10 0 13 0 2 0 4 0 9 0 13 1 12 14 25 68 8 73 53 Totals All Departments 31 10 63 * "Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. **"Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. LOG to Print Personal Holiday Greetings One of the more popular features in the Seafare rs LOG is included each year in the December issue: holiday greetings from active and retired Seafarers and their families to other members of the seafaring community and their families. In order to have a holiday message included in the December issue, it must reach the Seafarers LOG by Monday, November 13, 1995. Simply PRINT or TYPE (in 25 words or less) the message in the space provided at right. All (legible) greetings that are written in the holiday spirit will be included if they are received in time. (Please, no more than three entries per person.) Photographs also are welcome. Holiday greetings should be sent to the Seafarers WG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. After November 1, facsimile copies also will be accepted at (301) 702-4407. Additionally, forms may be filled out in any union hall and turned in to the official at the counter-or may be given to the boarding patroman at a vessel's payoff. To ensure that your holiday greeting is printed, please be sure all information is printed clearly. HOLIDAY MESSAGE (PLEASE PRINT OR TYPE) Message: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Check the block which describes your status with the SIU: D Active Seafarer D Retired Seafarer D Family Member of Active Seafarer D Family Member of Retired Seafarer Send your greeting to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. The greeting should be received at the LOG office by Monday, November 13, 1995. 9195 �SEAFARERS LOG SEPTEMBER 1995 ourteen Seafarers have F retired this month after having spent many years on the world's oceans and U.S. waterways. Ten of the retiring merchant mariners sailed in the deep sea division; two navigated the inland waterways, and two worked in the Railroad Marine division. Among those joining the ranks of SIU pensioners are Frank Costango, who completed the steward recertification course, and William P. Cronan, who graduated from the bosun recertification course. Both of the classes were held at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. Nine of the retiring Seafarers served in the U.S. military- four in the Army, four in the Navy and one in the Air Force. On this page, the Seafarers LOG presents brief biographical accounts of this month's pensioners. The SIU Wishes Our New Pensioners The Wind to Their Backs and Harbor from Storms Each month in the Sea/are rs LOG, the names of SIU members who recently have become pensioners appear with a brief biographical sketch. These men and women have served the maritime industry well, and the SIU and all their union brothers and sisters thank them for jobs well done and wish them happiness and health in the days ahead. deberg School. From 1947 to 1952, he served in the U.S. Navy. Brother Dobloug currently resides in Norway. ROBERT HUNTER JR., 66, graduated from the Santa Rosa, Calif. steward training school in 1969 and joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in the port of San Francisco before that union merged with the SIU' s Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District (AGLIWD). Brother Hunter upgraded to chief steward at the Lundeberg School. He served in the U.S. Navy from DEEP SEA 1945 to 1968. Born in Texas, BENITO A. Brother Hunter now makes his CAMACHO, home in California. 59,began sailing with NAJI the SeaMATRAHI, farers in 59, started 1968 from his career the port of with the SIU New York. in 1965 in He shipped in both the deck the port of and steward departments and Baltimore. upgraded at the Lundeberg --"=--= He sailed as School in Piney Point, Md. a member of the steward departBrother Camacho has retired to ment. Born in Arabia, Brother his native Puerto Rico. Matrahi became a naturalized U.S. citizen. He has retired to Maryland. FRANK COSTANG0,68, WILLIAM started his R. career with MILLER, the SIU in 65,began 1963 in the sailing with port of New the SeaYork. farers in Brother Costango sailed in the 1956from steward department. He the port of upgraded at the Lundeberg Philadelphia. He upgraded his School, completed the steward deck department rating at the recertification course there in Andrew Furuseth Training 1980 and served as manager of School in 1958. The Pennsylfood services at the facility for vania native last sailed as a a year. From 1944 to 1946, he bosun. Brother Miller calls Penserved in the U.S. Army. Born nsylvania home. in Delaware, Brother Costango now makes his home in Florida. WILLIAM P. CRONAN, 70, joined the union in 1947 in the port of New York. Brother Cronan sailed as a member of the deck department and graduated from the Andrew Furuseth Training School in 1960. He upgraded regularly at the Lundeberg School and graduated from the bosun recertification course there in 1983. Brother Cronan continues to live in his native Pennsylvania. ALIH. MOHAMED,55, joined the union in 1963 in the port of Seattle. He -=~_.=.J sailed as a member of the steward department. Born in Arabia, he became a naturalized U.S. citizen. Brother Mohamed has retired to California. INLAND as a bosun. From 1950 to 1952, Brother Ruiz served in the U.S. Army. A native of Puerto Rico, he retired to the island of his birth. CECIL J. MARLOW, 68, began his career with the SIU in 1972 in the port of Houston. The Florida native sailed in both the steward and engine departments. From 1944 to 1945, he served in the U.S. Almy. Boatman Marlow is a Florida resident. CHARLIE A. WILLIAMS,66, started his seafaring career with the union in 1966 from the port of San Francisco. Brother Williams shipped as a member of the engine department. From 1956 to 1961, he served in the U.S. Navy. Brother Williams lives in his native Philippines. SAMUEL G. MORMANDO, 62, joined the Seafarers in 1974 in the port of Norfolk, Va. He saiJed in the engine department, most recently as a chief engineer. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1950 to 1973. Born in New Jersey, Boatman Mormando now lives in Virginia. RAILROAD MARINE BERNARD BUCHANAN, 63, joined the Seafarers in 1959 in the port of Norfolk, Va. The Virginia native sailed in the deck department, working primarily for Chesapeake & Ohio Railroad. From 1950 to 1951, he served in the U.S. Air Force. Brother Buchanan continues to reside in Virginia. JOSEPHC. CASAZZA, 72, started his career with the SIU in 1959 in the port of New York. He sailed as a member of the deck department, working mainly for ErieLackawanna Railroad Co. Brother Casazza served in the U.S. Army from 1942 to 1945. Born in New Jersey, Brother Casazza makes his home in Iowa. Shipboard Meeting Provides ~ Gopher State Seafarers With Update from States Morale is good aboard the Gopher State, according to SIU Assistant Vice President Bob Hall, who recently got a chance to board the vessel in Guam and meet with its crewmembers. Being in such a remote location, Seafarers naturally were interested in hearing the latest information regarding job security for U.S. merchant mariners, particularly news about the export of Alaskan oil and maritime revitalization. Hall also answered questions posed to him on everything from benefits coverage to how SPAD can improve job security for all SIU members. Operated by Interocean Management Company (IOM), the Gopher State is one of the Military Sealift Command's fleet of prepositioning vesselsready to sail to at a moment's notice to wherever it is needed. It was standing room only on board the Gopher State during the recent union meeting. Engine department members in attendance include, from left, Wiper Chad Flunarty, Oiler Randy Pearson, Chief Electrician Jim Demouy and OMU Bill Cassel. r--~~~--, JAMES A. DOBLOUG, 65,began sailing with the Seafarers in 1969 from the port of New York. The New York native sailed in the engine department, most recently as a QMED. He upgraded frequently at the Lun- JOSE A. RUIZ,66, began sailing with the SIU in 1960 from the port of Houston. Brother Ruiz sailed in the deck department and upgraded regularly at the Lundeberg School. He last sailed 17 During a shipboard meeting in Guam, SIU Asst. Vice President Bob Hall was able to update crewmembers on the state of the maritime industry. Taking part in that meeting are, from left, AB Tony Carvalho, OS Bob Gaudreau, Bosun Bob Wilson, SA Stan Ellis and AB Milton Graham. �- 18 SEAFARERS LOG SEPTEMBER 1995 During one of the meetings held in the Honolulu hiring hall to inform Constitution crewmembers of their employment and upgrading options during the vessel's year-long layup, (from left, front row) Waiter Frank Krushinski and Cabin Attendants Rhonda Rigsby and Deidre O'Neill review paperwork. Seafarers Prepare for Year-Long Refurbishing of Passenger Ship Seafarers signing off the SS Carting their personal belongings through the passageways of the Constitution, before it began a soon-to-be-refurbished crew quarters on board the SS Constitution are (from front to rear) Cabin Attendant Rachel Schweirer, Cocktail Server year-long layup for refurbishing, received assistance on employHeidi Mclaughlin and Chief Refrig. Maintenance Tai-Ming Tung. mentand upgrading opportunities from the union's hiring hall in Honolulu. Representatives from the hall The sign at the had met with them several times entrance to the aboard the American Hawaii hall in Honolulu inCruises passenger ship to let them dicates the SIU's know they could sail aboard the preparation to asConstitution's sister cruise ship, sist crewmemthe SS Independence, register to bers disemwork aboard other SIU-crewed barking from the vessels or attend classes to laid-up Constituupgrade their skills at the tion. Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in Piney ,,___ __.__~-·,----,...,_-"""--""'----~~~-------- Point, Md. Port Agent Neil Dietz continued to hold special meetings at the union hall following the members' discharge from the cruise ship to keep them apprised of all their options. However, work did not stop for the Constitution's Seafarers when the last passengers left the vessel in early July. Approximately 200 members, from all three departments, remained aboard for about two weeks to make sure everything in their areas was cleaned, stowed and locked up. Because the vessel would still have to sail to the shipyard in Portland, Ore., a barebones crew of Seafarers in all three departments stayed aboard to carry out their normal routines while the vessel was crossing the Pacific. They remained on the ship for an additional week in the shipyard to secure all hatches, seal refrigerated areas and bring all systems down, including the main power plant. American Hawaii Cruises plans for refurbishing to begin first on the decks, swimming pools and crew quarters of the Constitution. Later, the vessel will undergo renovations and redecoration of all passenger cabins, public areas and stairways. The ship's electrical, air conditioning and plumbing systerns also will be ungraded during this period in the shipyard. The Constitution is not expected to return to servi until next summer. The Independenc underwent a similar upgrading during 1994. With necessary paperwork in hand, Dispatcher B.J. Baker (left) assists Cabin Attendant Deborah Calder- Cocktail Server Sarah Rotter-Canon The crew payoff was well organized and went very smoothly at the wood to register at the Honolulu hall after the Constitution's layup. makes her way off the vessel. company's dockside loading warehouse. Long Lines Operation Deemed 'A Memorable Experience' ·- A two-month assignment to lay and repair a trans-Pacific cable off the coast of California provided Seafarers and outside engineers working aboard the cable ship Long Lines the opportunity to learn more about each others' jobs, thus making it a more memorable trip, according to a letter from the vessel's deck storekeeper, Gary J. Rhyne. The Long Lines was loaded with an unmanned robot submarine as well as the equipment and engineers to operate it. Meanwhile, Seafarers aboard the ship were in charge of operating the Long Lines and maintaining the vessel's position when the submarine was placed in the ocean to handle the cable operation. The engineers maneuvered the submarine from its controls on the deck of the cable ship. The cable, known as Trans-Pacific Cable #5 (TPC-5), runs along the continental shelf. In order to keep it from being pulled up by other seagoing operations, the cable is buried by the remote arms of the submarine. When the cable breaks or is uncovered, the submarine is called out aboard an SIUcrewed Transoceanic Cable Ship, like the Long lines, to take care of the situation. Because of the time together on the Long Lines, the mariners and engineers got to know each other better, Rhyne reported. "By the end of the cruise, we all had nicknames. And we were calling ourselves the TPC-5 SCARABIANS." (The name SCARABIANS refers to the term used for these missionsSCARAB-which stands for Submersible Craft Assist, Repair And Burial.) "It was a tough job in the choppy winter waters off the northern California coast, but it was a memorable experience for everyone involved," Gathering on the fantail of the Long Lines to celebrate a successful mission to rebury a Rhyne stated. trans-Pacific cable are the ship's crewmembers and SCARAB engineers. �SEAFARERS LOG SEPTEMBER 1995 Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships minutes first are reviewed by the union's contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. STONEWALL JACKSON (Waterman Steamship), January 29--Chainnan Carl Lineberry, Secretary Ernest Hoitt, Educational Director Wayne McKeehan, Deck Delegate John Lewis, Engine Delegate Cres Suazo, Steward Delegate John Bennett. Chairman announced trip through Suez Canal to Newport News, Va. and New Orleans. Secretary advised members of availability of union forms on board vessel. Educational director discussed shipboard policies and encouraged members to upgrade at Piney Point. Treasurer announced $480 in movie fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested ice machine and larger refrigerator. Galley gang thanked for excellent job. NUEVO SAN JUAN (NPR, Inc.), May 18-Chairman William Card, Secretary Marvin St. George, Educational Director S. Moore, Deck Delegate Ray Fernandez, Engine Delegate Manuel Holguin. Chairman reported vessel scheduled for shipyard stay. He reminded crew to return room keys and clean quarters before signing off. Secretary advised crewmembers to "think safety" at all times. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew extended vote of thanks to steward deparunent for job well done. AMERICAN CORMORANT (Osprey Shipping), June 25Chairman Vernon Huelett, Secretary D.K. Goggins, Deck Delegate Matt Dimm, Steward Delegate Robert Wright. Crew discussed rusty water corning from ship's pipes and requested water filters for galley and wash room. Bosun advised crew that headquarters had been notified of problem and it is being looked into. Chairman asked contracts department for copy of standard agreement. Secretary asked for information concerning reflagging of Sea-Land ships and current update of union activities from headquarters. Educational director reminded crew to upgrade at Lundeberg School. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested new washer and dryer for laundry room. Members thanked galley gang members Goggins and Wright for providing excellent meals and SA Sallis Tifaro for job well done keeping house clean. CHARLES L. BROWN (Transoceanic Cable), June 23-Chairman Roger Reinke, Secretary Kenneth Hagan, Educational Director Faustino Pereira, Engine Delegate Ernest Cox, Steward Delegate Charlfred Autrey. Chairman advised crew of five-day cable exercise scheduled for end of July. Educational director encouraged members to attend tanker operations course at Piney Point. Crew requested cooler for deck. Members discussed shipboard smoking policy. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department announced bottled water received for drinking and noted chair in lounge being reupholstered. Steward department thanked for weekly cookouts. Next port: St. Thomas, U.S.V.I. CHARLESTON (Apex Marine), June 22-Chairman Anthony Maben, Secretary German Rios, Educational Director Moses Mickens Jr., Deck Delegate Juan Ayala, Engine Delegate Chris Clements, Steward Delegate James Harris. Chairman announced ship payoff upon arrival in port. Secretary urged members to write congressmen and ask them to stop flagging-out of American ships. Educational director reminded members to enroll in tanker operations course at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next port: Charleston, S.C. OOCL INNOVATION (Sea-Land Service), June 25-Chainnan Allan Rogers, Secretary Jonny Cruz, Educational Director R. Tannis, Deck Delegate Joerg Witte, Engine Delegate Martin Kimmel, Steward Delegate Benigno Santos. Chairman noted upcoming payoff in Charleston, S.C. He discussed reflagging of Sea-Land ships and encouraged crewmembers to support SPAD, giving Seafarers a voice in future of industry. Educational director discussed importance of upgrading skills at Paul Hall Center. Educational director reminded crew to wear goggles while chipping paint and use safety procedures at all times aboard ship. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked galley gang for providing excellent meals and clean house. SEA-LAND DEVELOPER (Sealand Service), June 28- Chairman Dana Cella, Secretary Hans Schmuck, Deck Delegate Norman Taylor, Steward Delegate E.J. Rue. Chairman noted change of schedule with ship sailing into Long Beach and Oakland, Calif. and returning to port of Tacoma, Wash. next voyage. Chairman encouraged members to donate to SPAD. Treasurer announced $150 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked contracts department to look into possibility of negotiating 401 K plan during next contract talks. SEA-LAND EXPRESS (SeaLand Service), June 10-Chairman Ernie Duhon, Secretary Mark Scardino, Deck Delegate Marc Cella. Educational director stressed importance of upgrading at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck, engine or steward delegates. Chairman read letter from Assistant Vice President Bob Hall concerning Seattle newspaper article about seamen. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. LIBERTY SPIRIT (Liberty Maritime), July 8-Chairman Lee Frazier, Deck Delegate Terry Dennis Cowans Sr., Engine Delegate German Valerio, Steward Delegate Roderick Gordon. Chairman reminded crew to leave rooms clean before payoff. Secretary requested fresh provisions in every port. Educational director advised members to upgrade skills at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked that mail service to ship be investigated. LIBERTY SUN (Liberty Maritime), July 26--Chairman J.W. Moore, Secretary F.L. Washington. Chairman announced upcoming room inspection. Secretary asked crewmembers to clean quarters and turn in room keys. No beefs or disputed OT reported. LNG GEMINI (ETC), July 16Chairman Ramli Mohamad, Secretary Dana Cunningham, Educational Director Daniel Wise, Deck Delegate Paul Jagger, Engine Delegate Kevin Conklin. Secretary thanked crewmembers for keeping lounge in order and reminded crew signing off to leave rooms clean. Educational director urged members to upgrade at Lundeberg School as soon as possible and contribute to SPAD. Treasurer announced $331 in ship's fund. Crew discussed purchasing snorkeling equipment with money from ship's fund. Dictionary and world atlas for crew lounge requested. Beef reported in deck delegate. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegates. Chairman noted telex from SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez received concerning ABs on watch. Engine delegate thanked galley gang for job well done. Next port: Nagoya, Japan. Chairman informed crew of upcoming payoff and ship departure. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed unemployment insurance and letter from Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez. Steward department thanked for fine food and clean ship. RANGER (OMI), July 30-Chairman Daniel Laitinen Jr., Secretary Neville Johns, Engine Delegate Willie Franks, Steward Delegate Stephanie Smith. Chairman announced ship scheduled to arrive in Argentina on July 31. He advised crew that upon arrival, ship will be lightering to another vessel before discharging remaining cargo in port. Upon comple- 19 SEA-LAND TRADER (SeaLand), July 2-Chairman Loren Watson, Secretary Kevin Dougherty, Educational Director Milton Sabin, Deck Delegate John Williamson, Engine Delegate Brent Johnson, Steward Delegate Kenneth Clark. Chairman reminded crewmembers to separate food from plastic items and place in proper storage areas. He noted this will help protect the oceans. He also stressed safety as first priority aboard ship and ashore and advised crew to ask for help when in doubt. He reminded members to check z-card expiration dates and attend tanker operations course at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Standing by Their Work -- NEDLLOYD HOLLAND (SeaLand Service), July 26--Chairman Freddie Goethe, Secretary Cleo Jones, Engine Delegate Rich Williams. Chairman reminded all crewmembers who want to continue sailing aboard tankers to attend tanker operations course at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew extended vote of thanks to steward department for job well done. OVER~EAS ARCTIC (Maritime Oven..::as), July 9-Chairman Frank Lyle, Secretary Reachell Armstrong, Educational Director Edward Self. Chairman announced payoff in port of Houston and pending shipyard stay. He urged Seafarers to write members of Congress and ask them to help stop Ameri~an ships from flaggingout. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward delegate requested non-skid pads for galley and pantry. Crew asked that bug extermination be carried out in next port. OVERSEAS JOYCE (OSG Car Carriers, Inc.), July 23-Chairman Richard Bradford, Secretary Pablo Alvarez. Chairman advised crew of payoff in port of Portland, Ore. Secretary reminded crew to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. Crew reported very smooth trip and thanked galley gang for job well done. OM/ PATRIOT(OMI), July 10Chairman Ralph Gibbs, Secretary Robert Davis, Educational Director Herman Castro, Deck Delegate Richard Nicholas, Engine Delegate Cliff Evans, Steward Delegate Bertrand Wright. Chairman reminded crewmembers to leave movies on board ship when signing off and close doors in passageways. Secretary noted news and communications posted in mess hall. Educational director advised members to sign up for tanker operations course at Piney Point. Treasurer announced $1,766 in ship's fund. Crew discussed purchase of new T.V., videos and books. Deck and steward delegates reported disputed OT. Crew stated mail service to ship very slow. Crew requested copies of contracts be sent to each department head and asked contracts department for clarification of clothing allowance for new crewmembers. Additional washing machine also requested. Steward department asked crew to help keep lounge area clean. Crew thanked galley gang for job well done. Next port: Honolulu. PFC EUGENE A. OBREGON (Waterman Steamship), July 17Chairman Henry Bouganim, Secretary Patrick Helton, Educational Director Robert Farmer, Deck Delegate Edward Gerena, Engine Delegate Ronald Lukas, Steward Delegate Leslie Davis. When a vessel is at sea and a broken part needs to be replaced, there are a number of options: replace the part with a new one; do without the piece of equipment, if possible; repair the old one; or fabricate a new one. That was the situation aboard the Mayaguez recently when a part from the ventilation fan would not operate. Fortunately, three SIU members aboard the Navieras NPR, Inc. vessel were able to remedy the situation by fashioning a new one from parts available aboard ship. The three-Engine Utility Salome Castro, OMU Gary Winter and DEU Curtis Lang-proudly stand by their work. tion, crew will clean tanks before loading vegetable oil bound for Caribbean area. Secretary noted ship to take on 90-day stores in next port. Steward department members thanked entire crew for job well done during recent voyage. Educational director encouraged members to take advantage of upgrading opportunities available at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked galley gang for excellent meals. SEA-LAND PACIFIC (Sea-Land Service), July 12-Chairman Stanley A. Gurney, Secretary George M. Bronson, Educational Director Lorance Pence. Chairman urged members to contribute to SPAD and read Seafarers LOG. He advised crew to check in with immigration, customs and patrolman upon arrival in port. Bosun asked crewmembers to keep laundry room clean. Secretary stressed importance of upgrading at Piney Point. Educational director encouraged members to attend tanker operations course and oil spill safety recertification at Lundeberg School. Steward delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck or engine delegates. Crew noted parts on order for washing machine. Crewmembers extended special vote of thanks to galley gang for wonderful job on holiday cookout. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. SEA-LAND RELIANCE (SeaLand Service), July 27-Chairman Dennis Brown, Secretary G. Sivley, Educational Director Steve Bigelow. Chairman asked all crewmembers to use tunnels when going ashore in port of Tacoma, Wash. He announced payoff upon arrival in port. Educational director encouraged members to donate to SPAD and upgrade at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked steward department for job well done. Chairman noted recent flaggingout of U.S. ships is of concern to every U.S. seaman. He urged Seafarers to write congressmen and donate to SPAD to help protect seafaring jobs. Bosun advised crew of shipyard period in February. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang for menu variety. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. SEA-LAND INDEPENDENCE (Sea-Land Service), August 6Chairman Carlos Loureiro, Secretary William Bragg, Engine Delegate Juan Garcia, Steward Delegate Munassa Mohamed. Chairman disclosed payoff date for Long Beach, Calif. and reminded crewmembers always to practice safety while working. Secretary updated crew on latest news concerning export of Alaskan oil aboard U.S. tankers. He urged members to attend tanker operations course at Lundeberg School as soon as possible. Educational director also reminded crew of importance of upgrading at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer reported $90 in movie fund and discussed purchase of new movies in next port. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward delegate reminded crewmembers to report all injuries and illnesses. Crew noted repair list to be completed and thanked steward department for excellent job preparing nutritious and delicious meals. Next port: Kaohsiung, Taiwan. WILLAMETTE (Kilby Tankships), August 5-Chairman Eugene Beverly, Secretary Oscar Angeles, Educational Director Joe Spell, Deck Delegate J.D. Foster, Engine Delegate Ernest Gibson, Steward Delegate Herbert Archer. Chairman announced payoff in Lake Charles, La. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked steward department for job well done. �20 SEAFARERS LOG hen Seafarers purchase WJuanita's Foods products, they not only buy tasty nourishment, but also put their dollars to work for themselves and their fellow trade unionists. That's because the factory and warehouse workers at Juanita's Foods are members of the United Industrial Workers (UIW), a union affiliated with the Seafarers International Union. Juanita's Foods is a family-owned business founded nearly 50 years ago. Today, Juanita's is the world's largest producer of menudo, a popular and traditional Mexican stew. The product line also includes meatball soup, various hot sauces and taco sauces, Mexican-style hominy and pozole. SEPTEMBER 1995 Company: Juanita's Foods Products: Menudo, meatball soup, taco sauces, hot sauces and more UIW members at Juanita's: Most work in canning, bottling or crating departments. Others drive trucks or forklifts, work in maintenance or operate filling machines or pressure-cookers. Distribution: Throughout most of U.S. Facilities: Packaging plant and warehouse in Wilmington, Calif. That's a fact: A number of other food manufacturers contract with Juanita's to produce canned meat products. Juanita's has U.S. Department of Agriculture and Food and Drug Administration licenses for such operations. Summary Annual Report for The SIU Pacific District Pension Plan This is a summary of the annual report for the SIU Pacific District Pension Plan [Employer Identification No. 94-6061923, Plan No. 001] for the year ended July 31, 1994. The annual report has been filed with the Internal Revenue Service, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (BRISA). Basic Financial Statement Benefits under the plan are provided by a trust arrangement. Plan expenses were $15,136,118. These expenses included $663,949 in administrative expenses and $14,472, 169 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 5,667 persons were participants in or beneficiaries of the plan at the end of the plan year, although not all these persons had yet earned the right to receive benefits. The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $150,347,276 as of July 31, 1994, compared to $166,849,849 as of July 31, 1993. During the plan year, the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $16,502,573. This decrease included unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the value of the plan's assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year or the cost of assets acquired during the year. The plan had a total income of ($1,366,455), including employer contributions of $15,599, earnings from investments of $8,310,624, stock dividends of $281,574, less investment expenses of ($382,334), unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of assets of ($9,605,306) and other income of $13,388. Employees do not contribute to this plan. Minimum Funding Standards The actuary's statement shows that enough money was contributed to the plan to keep it funded in accordance with the minimum funding standards ofERISA. Your Rights to Additional Information r Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership's money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. . TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of t~e ~ru AtlantI~, ~ulf, L~es and Inland Vi(aters Distn~t .are admu~istered m accordance with the provisrnns of van~us trust fund agree!11ents. All these agreements specify that t~e trustees. m charge of these funds shall equ~y consist umon and managem~nt representatlves and therr alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SmPnNG RIGHT& A memb~' s ili~p~g rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail,returnreceiptrequested. Theproperaddressforthis is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing forovertime (01) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY - THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the ~on, officer or member. It also~ refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the ~on or its collective membership. This established policy ~ beenreaffinned by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers WG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the sru unless o! an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment 1:-e !llade without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. RIGHTS AND C 0 NS TIT UTI 0 NA L OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as wellasallotherdetails,themembersoaffectedshould immediately notify headquarters. You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: 1. An accountant's report, 2. Assets held for investments, 3. Actuarial information regarding the funding of the plan, 4. Transactions in excess of five (5) percent of plan assets and 5. Fiduciary information, including transactions between the plan andparties-in-interest(thatis,persons whohavecertainrelationshipswith the plan). To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of the plan administrator, SIU Pacific District Pension Plan, 522 Harrison Street, San Francisco, CA 94105; telephone number (415) 495-6882. You also have the right to receive fITrm. tb.e plan mstrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabi e plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses o the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements will be included as part of that report. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan, 522 Harrison Street, San Francisco, CA 94105, and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, DC or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department of Labor should be addr to: Public Disclosure Room, N4677, Pension and Welf e 1t Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 2 tlon Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20216. EQ~AL_ RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal ~ghts m employment an? as members ~f ~SIU. These nghts are clearly set forth m the SIU const:ttutmn and in the~~~hthe~oo~~~~-----------------------~ e~p~oyers. C:onsequently, no member may be ~s­ crumnated ag~t ~use of race, creed, color, sex, nat:tonal or. geo~hic ongm. If 3;11Y member. feels that he ~r she. 1s derued the equal nghts to w~ch h~ or she is entitled, the member should notify uruon headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION-SPAD.SPADisaseparatesegregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. L-------------------------American Pride NOTIFYING THE UNION-If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. There's no doubt about the loyalties of the crewmembers aboard barge Ocean 215. The U.S. flag-painted on a fuel tank of the Maritrans Gulf Division barge (which works as a married unit with the tug Freedom)-measures approximately 13' x 30'. It was designed and laid out by Seafarer and Mate Stephen Rhodes. The actual painting was done by SIU members AB'Tankerman Steven Brundage, pictured sitting atop the fuel tank, and AB!fankerman Greg Luce. Brundage sent this photograph to the LOG. �SEPTEMBER 1995 SEAFARERS LOG 21 Final Departures Pensioner Joseph DiGrazia, 91, passed away June 15. Born in Argentina, he became a naturalized U.S. citizen. Brother DiGrazia began sailing with the union in 1947 from the port of Norfolk, Va. He was a member of the deck department. Brother DiGrazia retired in February 1972. MITCHELL J. ABDO Pensioner Mitchell J. Abdo, 81, passed away June 18. Brother Abdo graduated from the Marine Cooks and Stewards training school in 1963, before that union merged with the SIU' s Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District (AGLIWD). Born in Minnesota, Brother Abdo retired in October 1979. THOMAS J. HEGGARTY Pensioner ThomasJ. Heggarty, 68, died June 30. Born in Ireland, he joined the SIU in 1947 in the port of New ==--===~ York. He sailed in the deck department and graduated from the bosun recertification course at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. Brother Heggarty retired in August 1976. HERBERT E. ATKINSON Pensioner Herbert E. Atkinson, 86, died June 30. Born in Florida, he started his seafaring career in 1951 in the port of Baltimore. Brother Atkinson sailed as a member of the steward department and began receiving his pension in August 1976. FRED F. RASHID Pensioner Fred F. Rashid, 70, passed away June5. Born in Massachusetts, he began his career with .___ _ _ _ ____, the Seafarers in 1956 from the port of New York. Brother Rashid shipped in the deck department. From 1943 to 1945, he served in the U.S. Army. Brother Rashid retired in June 1990. ARTHUR J. HEROUX .B@iJ50GV?~:--I Pensioner Ar- EHLEN. CARTWRIGHT thur J. Heroux, 82, passed away July 1. Brother Heroux Pensioner EhleN. Cartwright, 82, passed away July 3. He began sailing with the SIU in 1951 in the port of ~--------' Houston. Brother Cartwright shipped in the deck department. Born in Iowa, he retired in October 1975. MEL VIN ROBINSON union in 1956 from the port of Baltimore. He shipped as a member of the deck department and began receiving his pension in July 1979. Pensioner Melvin Robinson, 83, passed away May 3. A native of Georgia, he began sailing with the Marine Cooks and Stewards before that union merged with the SIU' s AGLIWD. Brother Robinson began receiving his pension in June 1975. JAMES C. HEYLIGER GLENN C. SOMERVILLE Pensioner James C. Heyliger, 80, died June 7. He began sailing with the Seafarers in 1948 from the port of New York. Brother Heyliger shipped in the steward department. From 1943 to 1945 he served in the U.S. Army. Born in the U.S. Virgin Islands, he retired in October 1983. Pensioner GlennC. Somerville, 73, died June 30. He joined the SIU in 1968 in the port of New York. The _ _ _ _ _ ___, Wisconsin native sailed in the deck department Brotli.er Somerville served in the U.S. Army from 1941to1954. He retired from the SIU in November 1992. His ashes were buried at sea from aboard the Sea-Land Tacoma. .:~~- .i: ~~e!!ailing .....__~ _ _ _ _ _-....___, ALLENE. CUBIC Allen E. Cubic, 51, died August 1. Brother Cubic started his career with the Seafarers in 1979 in the port of San Franci~co. Born in New Yor.lc, Brother Cubic sailed as a member of the deck department. WILLIAM E. CUMMINGS THOMAS H. HOLT Pensioner William E. Cummings, 79, passed away November 22, 1994. A nntive of New York, he joined the Mmine Cooks and Stewards before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Cummings st:r..rf.ed receiving his pension in Jme 1973. NICHOLASR. TATAR Pensioner ThomasH. Holt, 73, passed away July 22. Born in Tennessee, he joined the SIU in 1963 in the port of _ ___;..==-=::;:,:.::_~New York. Brother Holt sailed in the deck depattment. He was a 1976 graduate of the bosun recertification course at the Lundeberg School. The World War II veteran served in the U.S. Army from 1942 to 1945. Brother Holt began receiving his pension in March 1988. WILLIAM J. DONALD Pensioner William J. Donald, 75, rued June 12. A native. of Michigaa, he joined the SIU in 1944 in the p01t of L----===="-~ Norfolk, Va. Brother Donald sailed as a member of the deck department and began receiving his pension in April 1974. Pensioner Nicholas R. Tatar, 71, died May 8. Brother Tatar started his career with the Seafarers in 1947 in the port of New York. He sailed in the deck department. The World War II veteran served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to 1945. Brother Tatar began receiving his pension in January 1983. JAMES 0. THOMAS Pensioner James 0. Thomas, 73, passed away May 24. He began sailing 1, with the SIU in 1951 from the port of ·· Galveston, Texas. The Texas native sailed in the engine department and retired in August 1979. ORVILLE R. MEFFERT Pensioner Orville R. Meffert, 77, died August 2. Brother Meffert began sailing with the union in 1956 from the port ~· of New Orleans. He shipped in the deck departrnent. In 1974, he completed the bosun recertification course at the Lundeberg School. Brother Meffert retired in March 1984. BASILIO ESTRELLA Pensioner Basilio Estrella, 87, passed away June 16. He became a charter member of the Seafarers in 1939 in the port of New York. Brother Estrella sailed in the engine department. Born in Puerto Rico, he began receiving his pension in May 1971. Arkansas, he started sailing with the Seafarers in 1947 in the port of New . York. Brother Rainey shipped in the steward department, last sailing as chief cook. The World War II veteran served in the U.S. Army Air Force from 1942 to 1945. Brother Rainey began receiving his pension in March 1978. JOSEPH DIGRAZIA DEEP SEA I I I Pensioner Charles N. Stephens, 93, passed away March 24. Brother Stephens joined the Seafarers as a charter member in 1939 in the port of New York. The U.S. Virgin Islands native sailed in tlJe steward ' to 1946 he RENE M. WITTBECKER Pensioner ReneM. Wittbecker, 83, died March 19. A native of Illinois, he began his career with the SIU in :_....::=--=-_, 1954 from the port of Frankfort, Mich. Sailing in the steward department, Brother Wittbecker started out in the Great Lakes division and later sailed aboard deep sea vessels. He retired in December 1976. HARRY M. WONG Pensioner HarryM. Wong, 75, passed away April 10. · Brother Wong started sailing with the Seafarers in 1955 in the port of San Francisco. The deck department member upgraded to quartermaster at the Lundeberg School. Brother Wong began receiving his pension in October 1978. INLAND WILLIE CREDEUR Pensioner Willie Credeur, 71, passed away .July 4. Anative of Louisiana, he began sailing with the '--------"-= union in 1957 from the pod of Houston. Boatman Credeur sailed in the deck department mainly as a tugboat captain. He began receiving his pension in September 1985. HORACE E. HUDGINS Pensioner Horace E. Hudgins, 93, died April 14. Boatman Hudgins started sailing with the Seafarers in 1962 from the port of Norfolk, Va. During his career, the Virginia native advanced in the deck department from the rating of mate to captain. Boatman Hudgins retired in July 1966. FRED KELLY Pensioner Fred Kelly, 81, passed away May 28. A native of Alabama, he began sailing with the SIU in 1953 from the port of Mobile, Ala. Boatman Kelly started out in the deep sea division and later transferred to inland vessels as a member of the steward department. He began receiving his pension in August 1973. WILLIE G. MIDGETTE CHARLES N. STEPHENS THOMAS 0. RAINEY Pensioner Thomas 0. Rainey, 81, passed away June 21. Born in department and began receiving his pension in December 1967. Pensioner Willie G. Midgette, 75, passed away June 21. Boatman Midgette started his career with the Seafarers in 1957 in the port of Philadelphia. He sailed in Lhe deck department as a mate and worked his way up to captain. From 1942 Pensioner fames L. Mohan, 78, diedMay3. A native of New York, he began his career with the SIU in 1967 from the port of Philadelphia. Boatman Mohan shipped primarily with McAllister Brothers in the deck department and last sailed as a pilot. He began receiving his pension in October 1982. HAROLD MOLL .-----::-~------. Pensioner Harold Moll, 70, passed away June 12. Born in Pennsylvania, Boatman Moll started sailing with the union in 1968 from the port of Philadelphia. The deck department member held the rating of captain at the time of his retirement in February 1987. WILLIS G. SCRIBNER Pensioner Willis G. Scribner, 84, died March 28. Boatman Scribner began sailing with the SIU in 1964 from --'-'--___.;;;:::::;;; the port of St. Louis. The Illinois native was a member of the engine department and held the rating of engineer. Boatman Scribner retired in December 1978. GREAT LAKES WILLIAM M. McDOUGAL . - : - - - - - - - - , Pensioner WilliamM. McDougal, 77, died June 17. A native of Ohio, he started his shipping career with ' - - - - - -- ---' theSIUin 1961 in the port of Cleveland. Brother McDougal sailed in the deck department. The World War II veteran served in the U.S. Army from 1942 to 1946. Brother McDougal retired in December 1981. ATLANTIC FISHERMEN LA WREN CE A. SCOLA Pensioner Lawrence A Scola, 66, passed away May 20. Born in Massachusetts, he joined the Atlantic Fishermen's Union in 1966 in the port of Gloucester, Mass., and last sailed as a fishing boat captain. From 1950 to 1954, he served in the U.S. Navy. Brother Scola began receiving his pension in December 1993. �22 SEPTEMBER 1995 SEAFARERS LOG Lundeberg School Graduating Classes SEAFARERS HARRY LUNDEBERG SCHOOL :f:t\~ LIFEBOAT CLASS o~~~l Marine Electrical Maintenance I-Marking their completion on June 28 from the marine electrical maintenance course are (from left, first row) Paul Pagano, Anthony Ripoll, Tony Albright, Mark Jones (instructor), (second Trainee Lifeboat Class 539-Graduating from Upgraders Lifeboat-Receiving their lifeboat row) Scott Duckworth, Michael Martykan, Dennis Baker, Don trainee lifeboat class 539 are (from left, kneeling) Theodore enaorsement on June 27 are Gary Housman (left) and Wroten and Fadiga Koutougou. Darby, Joshua Cannizzaro, Edgar Nelson, Raul Carranza, Wittred Lambey (center) with their instructor, Jeff Swan( second row) Orlando Sierra, Justin Vieira, Richard Crutchfield, Terry Allen and Jeff Swanson (instructor). l J. DDFJLimited License Preparation-CompletBridge Management-Seafarers co · the ing the two-week curriculum on June 28 which prepares Diesel Engine-Receiving their diesel engine bridge managemem course on July 27 are (from left, kn students to take the Designated Duty Engineer (DOE) exam endorsements on July 26 are (from left, sitting) Michael ing) Tom Gilliland (instructor), Antonio Colon, (second ro~) are (from left, front row) Larwrence Clark, Ricky Shumock, Brennan, Don Hurtz, Anthony Ripoll, (second row) Allan Steven Bush, Darren Collins, Nicholas Marcantonio, Donnie William Twiford, Eric Malzkuhn (instructor), (second row) Rogers, Samuel Addo, Eric Malzkuhn Qnstructor) and Collins, Mohamed Bazina and Jim Brown (instructor). Mark Stewart. Jeffrey Potter, Rafael Campos and Michael Morrissey. Tankerman OperationsReceiving their certificates of completion for the tankerman operations course · g Monell ing on July 26 are (from Liburd Ro , eorge Carter, John 1 11 raig Perry, Israel Rivera, Byran - --'.-. Cummings (instructor), (second row) Michael Rueter, Wilfredo Velez, Mark Blom, Fernando Onativia, Michael Eaton, Ramadan Elmobdy, Eric Martinez, Juan Green, Isabel Miranda, David Alexander, (third row) Claudio Romano, Brad Haines, Salvatore Gilardi, Billy Hill Sr., Richard Gracey, David Guyton, Patrick Carr?ll, Richard Daisley, Ear1 Gray Sr., Cathenne Scott, Timothy Koebel, William Beatty Jr., Sonia Felix, (fourth row) Bertram Hickman, John Nichols, Patrick Corless, James Shepard, Elieser Montalvo, Jonathan White, Stanley Krystosia.k, Scott Snodgrass, (fifth row) Ross H1mebauch, Dale Kirsch Jr., Edward Krebs, Hamada Kasem, Dwight Wuerth, John Foster and Frank Footer. 111. Tankerman Operations- SIU members completing the tankerman operations course on July 11 are {from left, sitting) James Hagner, Richard Decker, Anthony Sabatini, Joel Spell, Peter Westropp, Teodulfo Alanano, Edwin Rivera, Mohamed Bazina, (second row, kneeling) Daniel Ticer, John Konetes •. N.eil Carter, (third row) Jake Karaczynsk1 (instructor), George Moxley, Charlie Durden, Blair Baker, Robert Caldwell, Arthur Baredian, Timothy Null, Robert Allen, Richard Daisley, Michael Hall, (fourth row) Steven Bush, Stephen Garay, Roger Plaud, Douglas Konefal, Jeffrey Phillips, Patrick Scott, Carey Heinz, Darrell Moody and Daniel Eckert. �23 SEAFARERS LOG SEPTEMBER 1995 LUNDEBERG SCHOOL 1995 UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE The following is the course schedule for classes beginning between September and December 1995 at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship located at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. All programs are geared to improve job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. The course schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and-in times of conflict-the nation's security. Please note that students should check in the Saturday be/ore their course's start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. Deck Upgrading Courses Start Date Date of Completion Bridge Management (Shiphandling) October9 October20 Celestial Navigation November6 DecemberlS Limited License/License Prep. September 25 November3 Radar Observer/Unlimited October2 October6 Course Special One-Day EPA Refrigeration Course Lundeberg School instructors will conduct a one-day Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-approved refrigeration technician certification course on Friday, September 22 at the school. The intensive program will cover all the necessary material related to the repair and servicing of refrigeration equipment and air conditioning systems and will prepare students for the EPA exam. The exam will be given in the afternoon. Call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010 for additional information. Engine Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Diesel Engine Technology October9 November3 Fireman/Watertender & Oiler October2 December 15 Welding October23 November17 All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. Safety Specialty Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Advanced Firefighting September 11 September 22 Oil Spill Safety Recertification September 21 October 19 September 21 October 19 Sealift Operations and Maintenance October9 November3 Tanker Operations September 11 October9 November6 November20 October6 November3 December! December 15 Inland Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Deck Inland October 23 November 3 Designated Duty Engineer/ Limited License/License Prep. November 13 November 24 Radar Observer/Inland November 6 November 10 Start Date September S Date of Completion October27 Course Start Date Date of Completion Session ill Septembers October27 Additional Courses Course Adult Basic Education (ABE) and English as a Second Language (ESL) Recertification Programs Course Start Date Date of Completion Bosun Recertification October2 November6 NOTICE TO SEAFARERS Steward Upgrading Courses Start Date November3 Course Assistant Cook/Cook and Baker, Chief Cook, Chief Steward Date of Completion January 26, 1996 The Lundeberg School is presently working on its 1996 calendar of courses. As soon as the dates are finalized, the schedule will appear in upcoming issues of the Seafarers LOG. Members with any questions regarding future courses may call the school's admissions office at (301) 994-0010. --~----·····---·---·---·-------------------------------·--········-····--·-····-----------------------------··------------------------------------------ UPGRADING APPLICATION Primary language spoken (Street) (City) (Zip Code) (State) Date of Birth _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Telephone~-~-----(Arca Code) (Moath/Day/Ycar) Deep Sea Member 0 Lakes Member 0 Inland Waters Member D .· With this application, COPIES ofyour discharges must be submitted showing sufficient time to qualify yourselffor the course(s) requested You also must submit a COPY of each of the following: the first page ofyour union book indicating your department and seniority, your clinic card and the front and back of your z-card as well as your Lundeberg School identification card listing the course(s) you have taken and completed The admissions office WILL NOT schedule you until all of the above are received. END BEGIN COURSE DATE DATE If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security # Book# _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Seniority _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Department _ _ _ _ _ __ U.S. Citizen: D Yes D No Home Port - - - - - - - - - - - Endorsernent(s) or License(s) now h e l d - - - - - - - - - - - - - - LAST VESSEL: - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Rating: _ _ _ __ Date On: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Date Off: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS trainee program? SIGNATURE_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _.DATE _ _ _ _ _ _~ DYes DNo If yes, class# - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Have you attended any SHLSS upgrading courses? DYes DNo If yes, course(s) taken _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? D Yes D No Firefighting: D Yes D No CPR: D Yes D No NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. RETURN COMPLETED APPLICATION TO: Lundeberg School of Seamanship, Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075. 9195 �SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT The summary of the annual report for the SIU Pacific District Pension Plan may be found on page 20 in this issue of the LOG. Volume 57, Number 9 September 1995 Ferry Crew Executes 2 Rescues in a Week; Seafarers Willette and Terzakos Honored For Captain John Willette and AB Teddy Terzakos, working aboard the commuter ferry Manhattan means adhering to a strict schedule and remaining extremely alert as the boat crosses New York's East River 72 times during their daily shift from 3:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. But as the Seafarers recently discovered, there are times when it is okay to deviate from their route between Manhattan and Queens. Two such occasions took place in midJuly, as Willette and Terzakos executed a pair of nighttime rescues. On July 13, the captain and the AB rescued five people who had been guests on a yacht that capsized. Six days later, the SIU members saved a local man who had attempted suicide by jumping from the Pulaski Bridge-but who promptly changed his mind once he hit the water. "One woman wouldn't give back a life jacket even after she had been on ltznd for an hour. Eventually I told the ambula.nce driver to let her keep it." -AB Teddy Terzakos "It's like the TV show 'Baywatch' around here," joked Terzakos, 33. The two Seafarers, as well as personnel from the U.S. .,,, . . . . ,,,.,>···~····· t>• Here We Go Again Six nights after the yacht rescue, Willette and Terzakos heard an announcement from the Pulaski Bridge operator around 10 p.m. "He put out a call that there was a jumper who seemed ready to throw himself off the bridge," said Terzakos. ''Two minutes later, ·~a..?m he came back on and said, 'He jumped, he jumped, he's in the water!' "We were two minutes _;~ away, so we went to the site Photo by Leo Belarmino d fl · d Captain John Willette (left) and AB Teddy Terzakos, who work aboard the commuter ferry Manhattan, an saw a guy oppmg aroun were involved in two rescues during a six-day period in mid-July. The Seafarers saved a total of s · µQ\.'VRl''"hi::.::-n the water. We threw him a in New York's East River. They were acclaimed "heroes" by N.Y. Mayor Rudolph Giuliani. The man, a local resi e , Coast Guard, fire department zakos. "We're constantly He and Terzakos had ressaid he was too tired to pull himand police department, were moving; we only sit on one cued three women and two self aboard the Manhattan folhonored at City Hall by New side or the other for a couple men from the life raft by the lowing his 70-foot plunge from time the Coast Guard and York Mayor Rudolph Giuliani of minutes." other rescue boats arrived. the bridge. But before Terzakos for the first rescue, in which He noticed "something "The Coast Guard and the barreached out to lift him on board, all 38 people from the yacht drifting" near the middle of the Seafarer wanted to be cerwere saved. "The Manhattan the river and shouted to Wilbor police were only about a tain that the man wouldn't pull acted quickly and bravely to lette, who was in the wheelhalf-mile away, so they adhim off the ferry. "Is · ' help those in distress," said the house. The men then aimed w , right? vised us that they would take mayor, who described Willette the ferry's spotlight toward the over," said Terzakos. "NanIT:aI.-+"'<Tou're not going to take me and Terzakos as "heroes." water, where they saw the cap- ly, they're better equipped for with you?' He said, 'No, no, I sized Other Office, a 50-foot those situations, and they res- made a mistake.' He was thankmotor yacht. cued the rest of the people." ful. I pulled him aboard." Yacht Capsizes In all, two helicopters, four "At first I saw the [yacht] Moments before the first and then I saw someone stand Coast Guard vessels, three rescue, the ferry was docked "I said, 'You want to police boats and a fire departup," said Willette, 44. on the Manhattan side of the be rescued, right? ment boat were involved in East River around 9:20 p.m. Willette sent a mayday on the rescue and search. All the You 're not going to The tide was coming in at 5 the region's emergency radio to nearby victims were taken knots, with a swift current frequency as he quickly take me with you?' guided the Manhattan toward Bellevue Hospital Center, but heading north. "We were He said, 'No, no, I no serious injuries were the stranded passengers, who ready to make our 9:22 run reported. made a mistake. "' back to Queens," recalled Ter- either were in the yacht's life Terzakos estimated that raft (which automatically in-AB Teddy Terzakos flated) or standing on the hull. fewer than five minutes elapsed between the time he "We got there in less than a The man suffered bruises but noticed the yacht and the res"Somebody minute," he said. Exploited Children at (800) otherwise appeared unbanned. 843-5678 or the Missing Per- (among the victims) had their cue of the first five passons Unit of the Anne Arundel wits about them, because they sengers. "They were only in "He said he had girl (Md.) County Police Depart- were organized. The nonthe water a few minutes. But problems," added Terzakos. ment at (410) 222-8050. swimmers were in the life lift." they were lucky their boat The Manhattan is one of 14 SIU-crewed ferries operated Willette and Terzakos said didn't sink completely, because half of them couldn't by NY Waterway. In total, the most of the passengers-the swim. They might have been ferries transport approximately majority of whom are memhistory." 20,000 passengers each day bebers of New York-area law tween lower and midtown firms-were surprisingly He added that two of the women rescued by the ManManhattan, the Colgate Center calm. The Seafarers disin New Jersey and the towns hattan initially "seemed like tributed life jackets to them of Weehawken and Hoboken, and extended a rescue ladder they were in shock. One wouldn't give back a life jack- N.J. Each boat has a capacity from the forward part of the of about 400 passengers, et even after she had been on deck as Willette asked if all travels at an average speed of the passengers were accounted land for an hour. Eventually I for and if anyone was hurt. told the ambulance driver to let between 15 and 18 mph and is roughly 100 feet long. her keep it." "Fortunately, everything The crews all take part in According to newspaper was okay," Willette said. "It safety training, which includes reports, the accident occurred was amazing that no one was practicing with the rescue ladmissing and there was no loss when the yacht's pilot turned Kristie Leigh Allen der. the craft just as a swell of life." Help Locate This Missing Child The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) has asked the Seafarers International Union to assist them in locating Kristie Leigh Allen. She disappeared last September from Glen Burnie, Md. at the age of 15. She is believed to be in the company of an adult male and took all of her belongings with her. The NCMEC considers her an endangered runaway. Now 15, the brown-haired blue-eyed girl was 5 ft. 3 in. at the time of her disappearance. She weighed 100 pounds and has a small indentation on the upper left side of her forehead. Anyone having information on the whereabouts of Kristie Leigh Allen should contact the National Center for Missing and crashed against the starboard side. ''The boat turned and everybody started to slide," one of the passengers told The New York Times. "It shifted the weight to the right, and it didn't recover. It went over." � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 1990-1999 Description An account of the resource Volumes LII-LXI Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993; Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource September 1995 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES SENATE NAMES CONFEREES FOR LEGISLATION EXPORTING AK OIL ON U.S. TANKERS SIU TO CREW 5 ARMY SUPPORT SHIPS UNION COMPANY WINS BID FOR T-AGOS VESSELS MARITIME REVITALIZATION CLEARED FOR CONSIDERATION BY SENATE FEDERAL COURT SETS DATE TO HEAR WORK TAX APPEAL COAST GUARD PROBED CRUISE SHIP SAFETY MATSON TO PURCHASE 6 APL SHIPS 3 MORE TANKER SAFETY COURSES ARE OPEN TO SEAFARERS IN 1995 COAST GUARD FINALIZING NEW TANKERMAN REG LEASE EXTENSION FOR QUEEN MARY KEEPS JOBS FOR SIU AFFILIATE UNION ALLIED SEAFARERS RATIFY NEW THREE-YEAR PACT REFRIGERATION TECHNICIAN COURSE STILL AVAILABLE AT PINEY POINT NEDLLOYD HOLLAND CREWMEMBERS COME TO AID OF LONE BOATMAN SEAFARERS JOIN PROTESTS AGAINST PUERTO RICAN LABOR LAW REVERSALS NAFTA NIGHTMARE COMES TRUE IN AMERICA EFFORTS UNDER WAY TO STOP BILL REDUCING RUNAWAY-FLAG LIABILITY SAB ISSUES SENIORITY CLARIFICATION FOR GRADUATES OF TANKER OPS CLASS LEARNING IS THE KEY, GRADUATING STEWARDS TELL FELLOW SEAFARERS RECERTIFIED STEWARD DICARLO FOLLOWS IN FATHER’S FOOTSTEPS AMERICAN MERLIN CREW REELS ‘EM IN WWII MARITIME POSTER ART EXHIBIT STRIKING NEWSPAPER WORKERS SUPPORTED BY SIU MEMBERS CRUSADOR CREW KEEPS SHIP STEAMING ALONG SEAFARERS RETURN TO SEA-LAND EXPEDITION FOLLOWING LAYUP SEAFARERS PREPARE FOR YEAR-LONG REFURBISHING OF PASSENGER SHIP LONG LINES OPERATION DEEMED ‘A MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE’ FERRY CREW EXECUTES 2 RESCUES IN A WEEK; SEAFARERS WILLETTE AND TERZAKOS HONORED Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 09/01/1995 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 57, No. 9 1995 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/453a39cfe2a5aeb97756a2589cba0e8d.pdf 4b360dbd0c7c0ceec0be962b33a6f018 PDF Text Text I OFFICIAL ORGAN OF THE SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION •ATLANTIC, GULF, Volume 57, Number 8 August 1995 House-Senate Panel Gets AK Export Bill Measure to Ship North Slope Crude On U.S. Ships Passes House 324-77 Page3 Center Dedicates Crowley Campus Transport General Needs U.S. Fleet Page3 Penn Maritime Launches Integrated Tug/Barge Page7 S?U7N~'~ 11/0ldd 11/evi I l 1'04Wt . Thomas B. Crowley Jr. watches as Seafarer Orlando Sierra raises the Crowley Maritime Corp. flag over the Thomas B. Crowley Sr. Campus for Higher Learning at the Paul Hall Center on July 11. Named for the late chairman of the company, the campus contains classrooms designed for teaching upgraders various skills needed at sea. Thomas Crowley Sr. was a firm believer that education was a continuing process. Page 3. eolteetuut E~ att4e 1'aed~a« L~ �r -- 2 AUGUST1995 SEAFARERS LOG President's Report · Paying Respect to the Mariners of World War II the Paul Hall Memorial Library, is a vibrant reminder of what the nations of the world went through to save democracy. This month, we mark the 50th anniversary of the end of hostilities during World For all of the seafaring men and women who now come to the center, the exWar II. hibit also serves as a vivid reminder of the responsibility faced by each of them. In For nearly four years, from 1941to1945, the people of our nation devoted all times of conflict, when sealift is a necessary part of this nation's strategy, mariners their resources and energy to one cause-the defeat of the Axis powers of Gerhave been and will be called on to serve. many, Italy and Japan. For most Americans, the war began on All of us in the SIU thank Brother Meola for loaning his extensive collection to December 7, 1941 when the U.S. Navy's Pacific Fleet was virthe Paul Hall Center. tually destroyed by a surprise Japanese air attack. Mariners paid a heavy price for their involvement in World War II. Except for However, there was one group of American citizens who althe U.S. Marine Corps, the U.S. merchant marine suffered the highest casualty rate ready had felt firsthand the effects of the war being waged in of any of the American forces during the war. (In fact, the fledgling Sill lost more Europe and Asia. That group was the merchant marine. than 1,200 members at sea.) Half a year before the first bomb fell on American soil, While we praise the heroic efforts of the merchant marine during World War II, Seafarers aboard the SS Robin Moor had to abandon their ship let us also salute all Americans who did their part to win the war. Everyone from when a German U-boat challenged the neutral American the members of the armed forces to factory workers to farmers knew the task vessel's right to sail the sea. Other U.S.-flag vessels also were before them was victory and accomplished this. Michael Sacco stopped and destroyed by the submarines before war was formally declared on the United States. Full Veterans Status Sought In the first months after the U.S. entered World War II, merchant mariners August 15, 1945 was a day of great relief and rejoicing in America. On that day, proved their mettle. Despite leaving port without any protection, cargo ships the fighting came to an end. However, there was still much for American forces to loaded with war materiel destined for Europe sailed from Atlantic and Gulf ports. do. Unfortunately, many ships were sunk within sight of the American shoreline by Troops remained overseas to maintain the newly won peace and establish new waiting U-boats. governments in the occupied territories. Cargo ships continued to enter mined and Yet, those who survived the sin.kings returned to other ships, ready to perform booby-trapped ports to deliver relief goods to the victims of the war. America was whatever job was needed to win the war. These acts were repeated by Seafarers the only major power not to be ravaged by war, and it was doing its part to help the throughout World War II. During the conflict. no SIU-crewed vessel was forced to other nations rebuild. stay tied up because it lacked the needed mariners. Because this extra effort was needed, Congress did not declare World War II ofThe U.S. merchant marine played its vital role as the so-called fourth arm of ficially over for the troops who participated in it until December 31, 1946. Any defense by supplying American and other Allied troops with the guns. tanks, member of the armed forces who served from the bombing of Pearl Harbor to that airplanes, petroleum, food and other items needed to win the war. There was no date was to be considered a World War II veteran and entitled to the government's theater of battle in Europe, Asia or Africa where the merchant marine was not veterans benefits. But that did not apply to the merchant marine. present. In fact, merchant mariners had to wait until 1988 before they would be provided World War II veterans status. Even then, the period for veterans status was not the Posters Recall Struggle same as for the members of the Army, Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard. The Thanks to the efforts of a former Sill member, these struggles will be rememcutoff date for merchant mariners was established as August 15, 1945, rather than bered for years to come by Seafarers attending classes at the Paul Hall Center for December 31, 1946. Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point. Md. where they learn and Bills have been introduced in both the House of Representatives and the Senate upgrade the skills needed to be today's merchant mariners. to bring full recognition to the mariners who participated in the war relief effort alongside the members of the armed forces. The Sill will continue to work with Last month, the center opened an exhibition of World War II merchant marine merchant marine veterans groups around the country to right this wrong. poster art from the collection of Rendich Meola. The posters, which were printed But, no matter what date is used to determine their status, America owes a great in the United States and England, promoted the work of the merchant marine and debt to the merchant marine veterans of World War II for the role they played in cautioned the general public not to divulge information on convoy activities. the victory 50 years ago. Brother Meola sailed with the Sill during the war. His collection, on display in Donahue Succeeds Kirkland As President of the AFL-CIO The AFL-CIO executive council elected Thomas R. Donahue president of the national labor federation in Chicago on August 1. Donahue, who has served as AFL-CIO secretary-treasurer .--------..,,,.......--. since November 1979, will finish the term of President Lane Kirkland, who retired August 1. The 66Tom Donahue year-old New York native started his career in the labor movement in 1948 as an organizer with the Retail Clerks Association. He then worked with Local 32B of the Service Employees International Union. Donahue also served as an assistant U.S. labor secretary during the Lyndon Volume 57, Number 8 Hangin' In There to Get the Job Done Johnson Administration. Later, he served as an assistant to AFLCIO President George Meany. Elected by the council to succeed Donahue as secretarytreasurer is Barbara Easterling, the first woman ever to serve in the federation's second highest position. Easterling was secretary-treasurer of the Communications Workers of America at the time of her election by the executive council. She began her career as an operator for Ohio Bell, where she became a member of CWA Local 4302 in Akron, Ohio. The AFL-CIO executive council is made up of 33 international union officials who oversee the activities of the federation between biennial conventions. SIU President Michael Sacco has been a member of the council since 1991. The AFL-CIO will meet in its regularly scheduled convention in October to elect officers for full two-year terms. August 1995 The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 0160-2047) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District; AFL-CIO; 5201 Au th Way; Camp Springs, MD 207 46. Telephone (301) 899-067 5. Second-class postage paid at MSC Prince Georges, MD 20790-9998 and at additional mailing offices. POS1MASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers WG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Managing Editor, Daniel Duncan; Associate F.ditor!Prcxluction, Deborah A Hines; Associate F.ditors, Jordan Biscardo and Corrina Christensen Gutierrez; Art, Bill Brower; Administrative Support, Jeanne Textor. ___,. Bosun Carlos Loureiro (top) and Deck Maintenance AR. Alwaseem perform some heavy-duty cleaning from bosuns' chairs over the side of the Sea-Land Independence. �AUGUST1995 SEAFARERS LOG 3 House O.K. s Export Of Alaska Crude Oil On U.S. Tankers 1 Next Step General Robert L. Rutherford, head of the U.S. Transportation Command, informs the Senate Merchant Marine Subcommittee that U.S.flag ships and American merchant mariners are needed by the Defense Department to meet its national security obligations. Military Depends On U.S. Ships: Transport General Senate Subcommittee Takes Up Maritime Revitalization Bill The leading transport logistics officer for the military told a Senate subcommittee that a strong commercial Americanflag fleet is vital to ensuring that the United States can meet the global commitments of its anned forces. U.S. Air Force General Robert L. Rutherford, who heads the U.S. Transportation Command, told the Senate Surface Transportation and Merchant Marine Subcommittee during its July 26 hearing on maritime revitalization legislation that the Department of Defense counts on the U.S.-flag fleet and the mariners that crew those vessels. The Senate subcommittee is considering a 10-year, $ 1 billion program proposed by the Clinton administration to help fund approximately 50 militarily useful U.S.-flag containerships. Importance of Mariners "The commercial maritime industry has and will continue to play a major role in the Defense Transportation System (DTS) a government/industry partnership for national security," Rutherford stated. "For the DTS to be effective, our organic military transportation assets must be integrated with the substantial transportation capacity of the commercial sector. All segments of the total system must be in balance." The general pointed out that the armed forces depend on trained and available merchant mariners to crew the ships owned by the Defense Department and the Maritime Administration (MarAd), which he called the military' s "organic" fleet. Among those he referred to within the fleet are afloat prepositioning vessels, fast sealift ships and Ready Reserve Force vessels. Civilian mariners, including Seafarers, crew these ships for the military. Rutherford pointed out that while the Defense Department is adding to its fleet of military surge vessels, "we have not forgotten the importance of the U.S. maritime industry to our overall sealift capabilities. "Just as we did in the [Persian] Gulf War, Somalia and, most recently, back to the Persian Gulf, we rely extensively on our commercial partners to support our worldwidecommitments." After stating that the Defense Department moved more than 16 ~lliont~nsofcargoonmerch~t ship~ dunng peace, he added, In wartime, we depend upon the U.S. merch~t fleet to support ~e ~ow of sustamment and ~umtion. cargoes and to provide the mar;mer~ necessarytomanourorg~c ships. . 0 . ~nsure ~onh_n~ed ava1l~?1hty of this cnttcal c~pability, the U.S. Transportat10n Command ~~pports t~e proposal for a Mantime Secunty Program, funded by ~he Dep~ment of Tr~nsportatlon, _which furth~rs na!10n.al e~normc and secunty Objectives, Rutherford stated. , ~~therfor~ s .su~port for the manttme revitalizatrnn p~ogram was echoed by representatives of shipboard labor unions, the U.S. maritime administrator and American-flag shipping companies. ! Outlines Proposal In opening the hearing, Senator Trent Lott (R-Miss.), the subcommittee chairman, outlined his framework for drafting such legislation. "l' d like to say as simply as possible what my objectives are. I want to maintain and promote a U.S.-flag fleet, built in U.S. shipyards, and manned by U.S. crews. I would like to do it in the most cost effective manner possible," Lott stated. ~o~t ~ote? a mariti111:e rev1~zat10~ bill (H.R. 1350) 1s awaiting aci:ion by the House of Representatives. H.R_. 1350 already has been considered and received bipartis~ support fr?m the H~use Natt~nal Secunty C0I1_1m1 ttee ~nhd pits M erchant 1 M arme 0 vers1g t ~ne. The senator sa1~ ~e would propose a program sun~lar to the one offered by the Clinton ad. . . d rtak b th en y e mimstratton, un e Conference Committee The House of Representatives Legislative Track overwhelmingly gave its approval on July 24 for the export Issue: Export of Alaskan Oil sale of Alaskan North Slope On U.S.-Flag Tankers crude oil as long as it is carried aboard U.S.-flag tankers. Senate Energy and Natural Resources March 1 By a vote of 324 to 77 on the Committee Hearing March 15 Senate Energy and Natural Resources Alaskan Oil Export Act (RR. 70), the House joined the Senate Comittee Mark-Up in endorsing legislation that will May 9 House Resources Committee Hearing keep the U.S.-flag independent May 16 Senate Approves Bill (S.395), 74-25 tanker fleet sailli1g into the next House Resources Committee Mark-Upcentury. The Senate had apMay 17 House Approves Bill (H.R. 70), 324-n proved a similar bill (S. 395) by a July 24 margin of 74-25 on May 16. Bills Sent to Conference Committee To Come to Iron Out Differences Because of differences in the bills passed by the two branches To Come House and Senate Consider Revised Legislation of Congress, a conference comTo Come President Signs If Measure Passes House and Senate mittee composed of legislators from both chambers has been created to craft a compromise bill. One of the concerns raised for H.R. 70, two congressmen A spokesman for Senator Frank during the House debate on H.R. noted how the bill would help the Murkowski (R-Alaska), who intro- 70 was whether the bill violated merchant marine. duced the Senate bill (S. 395), told any international agreements on "I rise in support of this imporreporters that final action on the shipping supported by the United tant initiative to authorize exports legislation could come as early as States. of Alaskan oil because it is vital Representative Don Young to preserving the independent this month. Both the House and Senatewouldhavetoapprovethe (R-Alaska), chairman of the tanker fleet and the cadre of compromise bill before it goes to House Resources Committee, skilled men and women who the White House. which voiced bipartisan support proudly sail today under the President Bill Clinton, whose forH.R. 70 in May, responded to American flag," stated Rep. Department of Energy supports that issue during the floor debate. Gerry Studds CD-Mass.) lifting the export ban as long as "There long has been concern "There can be little doubt that the oil is carried on American- in the domestic maritime com- our government has a compelling flag tankers, has stated he would munity that lifting the ban would interest in preserving a fleet essign such legislation when it force the scrapping of the inde- sential to national security, especlears Congress. pendent tanker fleet and would cially one transporting an The SIU, in testimony given in destroy employment opportunities important natural resource," he MarchbeforetheSenatecommit- formerchantmarinerswhoremain added. tee and in May before the House vital to our national security," Rep. James Traficant (Dcommittee considering lifting the Young told his colleagues. Ohio) stated the current policy of 22-yearexportban,hassupported "In recognition of this con- notexportingAlaskanNorthSlope the legislation because it would cern, our proposed legislation crude oil "keeps our tankers on tarprovide jobs for U.S. mariners. would require the use ofU.S.-flag get for a scrap heap. Lifting the The union dropped its opposition vessels to carry exports. The U.S. ban puts those tankers back into to exporting Alaskan North Slope trade representative has assured service, U.S.-owned vessels, I oil last year when legislation was Congress that this provision does might add, with U.S. crews." introducedinCongressindicating not violate our GATI [General Congress imposed the present that the product would be carried Agreement on Tariffs and Trade] ban on export sales of Alaskan to foreign ports aboard U.S.-flag obligations," Young concluded. North Slope crude oil in 1973 tankers In announcing their support during the Arab oil embargo. _ _ _· - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Hall Center Dedicates Campus In Memory of Tom Crowley Sr. The Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education memorialized the late Thomas B. Crowley Sr. by dedicating _a camp~ for highe~ ~earning in his memory at the Piney Pomt, Md. facility. Crowley, whowaschairmanandchief executive officerof the maritime company that bore his name, hadanexcellentworkingrelationshipwiththeSIU. The union has been contracted with Crowley Maritime Corporation for decades. Believed in Education Thomas B. Crowley Sr. was a firm believer in advancing training and educational opportunities for mariners. In naming the facilities on the grounds of the Paul Hall Center after Crowley, SIU President Michael Sacco recalled that the California native was a man who believed that progress means change, constant upgrading and improvement. "These classrooms are designed to keep the philosophy of Tom Crowley alive-that education is a continuing process," Sacco told the audience of more than 150 people who assembled for the ded" n· 1ca on. "With the addition of the Thomas B. Crowley Continued on page 6 Sr. Campus for Higher Learning, the [Paul Hall] center continues to expand, ready to meet and surpass the challenges of the future. ''Tom Crowley had a long and successful association with the SIU. With the opening of this campus, that association will continue for years to come," Sacco added. At the end of the ceremony, Crowley's son, Thomas Jr. (who now serves as the company's president and chief operating officer), and his widow, Molly, thanked the SIU and the Paul Hall Center for remembering Thomas Crowley Sr. by naming the campus after him. Both of them stated he would have been extremely pleased to be honored in such a fashion. SIU members have been working aboard various Crowley Maritime vessels for more than 30 years. Seafarers crew the roll-on/roll-off vessels of Crowley American Transport. They also sail aboardpcoRmppanhi"/J tudgb ohi~ts and bkarges. betwFleen Sand 1 a; 1a~ sonv111e, a. a.n 1uan, . . ; a e_p Lake C~arles, ~· Fmally, umon members are mvolved m dockil?g operatrn~s an_d t~e moveme~t of bunker and demck barges m Wilmmgton, Calif. . The classrooms within the campus dedicated to Continued on page 8 �4 SEAFARERS LOG AUGUST1995 IMO Enforcement Expands In Revised Maritime Pact The two-year series of meetings to update an international agreement that sets minimum standards for certification, training and skills needed by mariners worldwide culminated last month at a diplomatic conference conducted in London with the adoption of a number of significant revisions aimed at improving shipboard safety. Representatives of the SIU attended the conference (which lasted two weeks) to ensure that the safety of seamen was the primary consideration in the updating of the International Convention of the Standards of the United Nations in 1959 to improve safety at sea, will require reports on the efforts of signatory nations to comply with the updated STCW convention. With the IMO' s expanded enforcement authority. vessels crewed by mariners from flagstates whose training facilities and procedures for certification do not meet the STCW' s standards may be turned away from ports worldwide, the updated agreement states. With that in mind, the shipping industry should have plenty of incentive to help bolster training standards. noted a number of convention Training, Certification and participants. Watchkeeping (STCW), a 17As in the past, signatory nayear-old pact that has 113 sig- tions still may have more strin- provide marine police officials in each country with increased power to inspect vessels and also expanded the grounds on which vessels may be detained. They also voted in favor of allowing port control officials to assess the competence of watchstanders. A new regulation was adopted requiring mariners to demonstrate their competence both through written tests and practical exams. The parties also approved an amendment requiring all crewmembers of seagoing vessels to complete training in basic survival skills. • Minimum rest periods were established for watchstanders, including officers in charge of a watch and ratings forming part of a watch. According to the new requirement, these individuals must be provided a minimum of 10 hours of rest in any 24-hour period. The hours of rest may be divided into no more than two periods, one of which must be at least six hours. • The SIU contingent and other representatives of American maritime labor joined with foreign delegations in defeating a proposal that would have allowed solo bridge watch at night. Additionally, the updated convention includes both the traditional approach and an optional, functional approach (also known as alternative certification) as the means for providing mariner certification. The functional ap- proach, a new way of certifying seamen's qualifications for shipboard work, utilizes descriptions of the functions each mariner must perform to hold a particular position. In earlier international meetingsandatlastmonth'sfinale, the SIU insisted that the new certification procedure should not be used to cut comers or endanger safety. As a result. the language of the updated STCW stipulates that the new amendment governing certification will not allow the issuance of alternative certificates to be used to reduce manning levels or training requirements. Unless a specified number of states notify the IMO of their objections to the revised convention by August 1, 1996, the updated convention will remain intact. No objections are anticipated. MTJD -·r•v s11 · IJ ·1'd· A d gr• r•n'n •A .,.J •J •J ::I .,.,U. U.S. • • '~ft natory countries gentrulesthanthosesetoutinthe represent nearly 95 whose percent fleets of the STCW. In those cases, the agree- ~'hat Ha~ms world's merchant-shiplonnage. ment does not override the laws According to the STCW of countries which maintain The AFL-CIO's Maritime Trades Department amendments-which take effect higher standards and stricter (MTD), along with a number of elected officials in February 1997-the lntema- qualifications. The U.S., for in- and several shipyards, last month warned that an tional Maritime Organization stance, has more rigid laws than international agreement to end shipbuilding subsidies--as currently written-would leave American (IMO) will have the authority to the rules of the STCW. In other news from the con- yards at a severe competitive disadvantage. enforce the pact's rules on the training and certification of ference: In a joint statement submitted July 18 to the m_an_·_n_er_s_._Th_e_IM_o_.__ cr_e_a_te_d__ bY___• _M_e_m_b_er_c_o_u_n_tn_._es_ag_r_ee __ dto_ 1 Trade Subcommittee of the House Committee on Ways and Means, the MTD and the AFL-CIO (the national federation of trade unions) pointed out that the "present Organization for Economic Development and Cooperation (OECD) agreement strips away the modest U.S. government supports and protections presently in place and basically condemns American shipyards to a marginal status for the foreseeable future. With vague guarantees of compliance and questionable enforcement procedures for violations of the subsidy agreement, the MTD and the AFL-CIO do not believe that the present OECD shipbuilding agreement is in the nation's best interest." The labor groups further called for U.S. trade negotiators to seek a new agreement that "takes into consideration the longstanding unfair advantages many foreign shipyards have enjoyed through massive government subsidies." The OECD shipbuilding accord was signed in December by representatives from the U.S., Hours after a federal judge dismissed a lawsuit challenging MarAd's European countries, Scandinavian nations, Japan waiver to APL to flag-out 6 new ships, Seafarers gather at APL's and South Korea. The pact was reached after more Oakland, Calif. terminal to protest arrival of the APL China June 29. than five years of negotiations. Now, it must be ratified by each signatory nation. The SIU's Pacific District is operating a foreign-flag vessel in The OECD agreement calls for elimination of appealing a federal court decision com pe ti ti 0 n with U · S ·-flag direct and indirect subsidies to shipyards through a that supported a waiver granted operators in trade routes deemed phase-out period beginning in January; by 1999, all by the U.S. Maritime Administra- essential to America's interests. such subsidies would be terminated. The agreement tion (MarAd) to American PresiThe waiver was applied to the dent Lines (APL) to flag out six six C-11 containerships under also establishes a pricing code to prevent dumping new containerships that will be in construction in foreign shipyards. in the shipbuilding industry, sets up a dispute-setdirect competition with the The first of those vessels, the APL tlement process and spells out government financChina, docked in the United ing for exports and domestic ship sales in order to company's U.S.-flag vessels. The unions that make up the States at APL' s Oakland, Calif. eliminate trade-distorting financing. Pacific District-the Sailors' terminal for the first time just U.S. Yards Dwindle Union of the Pacific, the Marine hours after Harris' decision was Firemen's Union and the SIU At- announced. In its statement, the MTD and the AFL-CIO lantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland In July 1993., the company ~ad pointed out that, since the elimination of ConstrueWaters District-claim, along sought the waiver fr?m Section tion Differential Subsidy (CDS) funding as part of with the Marine Engineers' 804(a) shortly. after it_ gave the the 1981 Budget Reconciliation Act, "domestic Beneficial Association (MEBA) go-ahead to ~uild th~ six v~sse_ls. shipyard employment has shrunk by 80,000 skilled and the Masters, Mates & Pilots, The SIU s Pacific District technicians and laborers. Hundreds of thousands of that the decision handed down by filed its original laws~it on additional jobs in related industrial pursuits also U.S. District Judge Stanley S. January 12. In the lawsmt, the have been tenninated." Harris on June 29 was erroneous u~on~ stated APL's ":aiver apMeanwhile, overseas shipyards were receiving in that MarAd did not follow pbcatlo~ was n~t .considered_ by bigger and bigger subsidies from their respective proper procedures in approving MarAd s Mantlm~ Subsidy governments-ranging between $4 billion to $7 the waiver. . . . Board, a _vrocess reqmred by law· billion in total each year for the major OECD shipJudg7 Harns dismissed the The' umons also ~hallenged building nations (Japan, South Korea, Italy, Gers~it,.s~ting that MarAd had acted APL .s us~ of the forei~~flag v~s- many, France and Spain). wt~ its pow~ to grant ~L the sels m dir~t competitton with "The end result of these huge subsidy outlays . was predictable: American shipyards were driven waiver.1be uruons appeale.dmJuly. U.S.-flag ships. On Novembe~ 15, 1994, Shortly befor~ the APL China out of commercial construction .... In the process, MarAd an_nounced it had granted was ready to. sad, the c?mp~y seven large shipbuilding yards and hundreds of APL. a waiver from the Merch_ant contracted with a Cypnot shi~ related suppliers were forced to cease operations," Manne Act of .1 ?36, S~ct~on manageme_ntgroupt<?operatean the MTD noted. Last year through reactivation of and changes 804(a) that pr?~bit~~ s1::ippi~g c~e~ ~el~ix. new sh~~·t Thet la~ c?dmpandyllrece1fvmg er. su - ? I tee 1-996s is expec o se sa in the Title loan guarantee program, U.S. yards si y o ars rom ownmg or m a . Xr lf'lf'ftPi t Slli·rp~arids received a relatively small measure of government support for research activities and acquisition of private-sector financing for ship projects and shipyard modernization. The pending OECD agreement calls for significant cuts in the loan guarantees, which will have a ..dampening effect" on new ship orders from American shipyards, the MTD cautioned. Additionally, while the OECD pact essentially does not limit government funding of research and development projects, U.S. law limits such funding to American yards to a maximum of 50 percent. Based on the structure of the OECD agreement, "it is likely that foreign shipyards will enjoy a research and development funding percentage advantage (over U.S. yards) that runs from 15 to 50 percent higher," the MTD said. The danger in this is highlighted by a post-1981 comparison between the U.S. and Japan, according to the statement. "American yards received federal research funding of several million dollars yearly through 1994, while the Japanese government lavished annual funding of close to $1 billion upon its commercial shipbuilding base. As a result, the Japanese have the largest share of the world's new ship order book, while the United States is only now reentering the commercial shipbuilding market." The OECD pact means a continuation of this kind of disadvantage to U.S. yards, the labor groups said. They also pointed out that the OECD provides foreign governments with the opportunity to challenge the sanctity of U.S. cabotage laws. More Opposition The MTD is far from alone in its opposition. At · · · · fr the subcomrruttee heanrtg, representatlves om · bm-1d·mg fac11tles ·1· · me · Iu d.mg Avon d a1e U.S. ship sh·ipyard s, Bath Iron w orks. General Dynarmcs · ' l · B D. · · I all Shi b ·1d· N E ectnc oat 1vis10n, ng s p m mg, ational Steel and Shipbuilding, and Newport News Shipbuilding and Drydock Co. also spoke out against it. "This agreement locks in the competitive advantage foreign shipbuilders have over us as a result of years of government subsidies," said Tom Bowler, president of the American Shipbuilding Association, whose members include the aforementioned yards. Several members of Congress also voiced concems over the pact, including Representative Herbert Bateman (R-Va.), who chairs the Merchant Marine Oversight Panel of the House National Security Committee-which along with the Trade Subcommitteehasauthorityoverlegislationtoimplement the OECD pact. Bateman recounted that France pushed through a special exception to continue subsidizing its yards "before the ink was even dry on the agreement." The subsidy package, worth $480 million, was accepted by the European Union. ''That event alone should have provided more than ample grounds for our government to insist on reopening the_ negotiations for the purpose o~ g~n­ ing more eqmtable treatment for the unsubsidized U.S. shipbuilding industry," said Representative James B. Longley Jr. (R-Maine). �AUGUST1995 SEAFARERS LOG WWII Merchant Marine Poster Exhibit Opens at Paul Hall Memorial Library Historic Collection Symbolizes Mariners' Vital Contribution The Paul Hall Memorial Library for 10 years has contained a monument listing the names of the more than 1,200 SIU members who lost their lives during World War II. Now the library, part of the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, Md., also features another compelling tribute to the World War II merchant marine. Last month, an exhibit of 25 superbly maintained World War II-era merchant marine posters (printed in the U.S. and England) opened at the facility. Approximately 200 people attended the opening ceremony July 12, which featured remarks by U.S. Maritime Administrator Albert Herberger, SIU President Michael Sacco and former Seafarer Rendich Meola, a veteran of World War II who owns the posters (see sidebar). No date has been set for the exhibit' s closing. As the posters are on a long-tenn loan from Meola to the school, the exhibit is expected to remain open indefinitely. "I wish to pay homage to those brave men of the Allied merchant marine forces-from whatever country, of whatever color orcreedwho gave the last full measure of devotion during World War II," Meola said at the exhibit's opening. "I assure those here assembled that the merchant marine played its vital role in delivering the materials of war for the Allied cause." Valuable Addition "During the war, posters such as these could be found on everything from marketplace windows to trash cans," noted Sacco, who served as master of ceremonies. ''Today, five decades later, they are rare and valuable. "Despite the horrors and hardships of World War II, these posters undoubtedly evoke nostalgic feelings in those who served during the war. And at the same time, they stand out as a colorful history lesson for younger generations." Retired U.S. Navy Admiral Herberger stated that the posters should remind everyone of the vital contribution of the American merchant marine-not just during World War II, but also in every other major conflict in U.S. history, as well as during times of peace. That record of service is more than enough reason to maintain a strong American-flag fleet, he said. "The history is there-the history portrayed by these posters," said Herberger. "A display like this perpetuates the memory of our merchant marine, and it inspires future generations to continue service to this country." Many posters such as those in the exhibit appeared in and around SIU halls during World War Il. Thousands of SIU members sailed the dangerous convoys before, during and after the war, many were among the 7 ,000-plus merchant seamen who gave their lives. In all, the American merchant marine had a casualty rate second only to that of the U.S. Marine Corps. Despite the fact that more than 1,500 U.S.-flag merchant ships were lost to torpedoes, bombs, mines and other war-related incidents-and even though they often sailed without protective escortsno American commercial vessels assigned to the war effort idled in port for lack of crews. Moreover, the SIU's involvement proved constant. From the sinking of the unarmed, SIUcrewed cargo ship Robin Moor seven months before the bombing of Pearl Harbor, to the critical supply runs to icy Murmansk and Archangel, to every major Allied invasion point-from North Africa to Normandy, from Guadalcanal to Okinawa-Seafarers served their country. Popular Posters Hundreds of thousands of posters were produced in the U.S. during World War II, and millions of copies were displayed in homes, factories, offices and public grounds throughout America. The U.S. Office of War Information, along with virtually every other major government agency, as well as the U.S. Anned Services and private industry, created these images in order to generate the maximum public participation in the war effort. The posters' subjects included members of the merchant marine, the armed forces and the civilians who contributed to the war effort while living at home. Their messages urged Americans to join the fight, whether by volunteering for the armed forces or merchant marine, by conserving food, gasoline and other material in the U.S., or simply by not discussing convoys or troop movements. A common tactic of wartime posters was to shake people from complacency by presenting frightening and catastrophic images of war. Wounded or dead U.S. soldiers and sailors, as well as powerful enemies, were depicted in this genre. Also shown were American women and children at home, about to be overtaken by an evil enemy. Other posters were upbeat and appealed to American patriotism. Posters in this category were designed to inspire confidence, a Rendich Meola, 79, sailed as an SIU member during WWII. A lifelong resident of Middletown, N.Y., he recently loaned, on a long-term basis, 25 wartime posters to the union and its Lundeberg School. 'I Got Tired of Staying on Shore' Former SIU member Rendich Meola, 79, described July 12 as "a day of mixed emotions for me." Meola, who sailed for three years as a deck engineer during World War II, owns the posters that are displayed at the Paul Hall Memorial Library. They form a part of his wartime poster collection. "I am sad because the posters, which by now are almost friends, are no longer virtually at my side so that I can enjoy them at my leisure," he said at the opening ceremony. "I am, however, gladdened by the knowledge that they are now within this beautiful building." Meola graduated from George Washington University in 1939 and subsequently entered his family's real estate business. He was married and in his mid-twenties when he decided to join the merchant marine. "In those days, people wanted to do something in the war effort," recalled Meola, a lifelong resident of Middletown, N.Y., which is located roughly 70 miles north of the SIU hall in Brooklyn. ''We all had the feeling we should be doing something." Actually, he started his war service as an electrician's helper in a Brooklyn shipyard. He then became an electrician and often worked on cargo ships. "I got tired of seeing them go in and out while positive outlook and a sense of national pride. Familiar national symbols such as the Statue of Liberty, as well as images of strong men and women, tools, weapons and fistsoften in a red, white and blue setting-were widespread. Herberger and Sacco each stated that the posters serve to remind viewers that the merchant marine was key to the Allied win. "Without the merchant marine, I stayed on the shore," Meola noted. "So I decided, I'm going to go. I went to a maritime office in lower Manhattan and then started sailing as a deck engineer." Of his sailing days, Meola recounted, "It got easier near the end, because [Allied naval forces] had a fix on the subs." After the war, Meola went back into real estate. He still operates the business. As for his poster collection, Meola said he was inspired to start it when the U.S. government in 1988 awarded veterans' status to the World War II merchant marine. "It was my intent to concentrate on collecting posters with a frame of reference to the merchant marine. I soon discovered, however, that there were relatively few of this type," Meola said. Still, he acquired more than two dozen such posters-some that were printed in the U.S., others that were done in London. He also garnered other World War II posters that highlighted the armed forces and made appeals to civilians. ''The posters of World War II, regardless of nationality, were a form of propaganda," he concluded. "But I have always admired poster art and recall many of the posters which appeared during World War II." World War II would not have been a victory," Herberger said. "The deeds of the merchant marine carried the day. "In September, President Clinton and World War II veterans will convene in Pearl Harbor to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the war's end," he added. "I will be there to make sure the role of the merchant marine is properly depicted." "This exhibit, first and foremost, is a tribute to the tens of thousands of merchant seamen who carried the Allied effort," noted Sacco. "Although it took a disgracefully long time for official U.S. government recognition of the World War II merchant marine, history bears out the fact that without the supremely courageous work of civilian mariners, the Allies would not have won the war." Herberger: Then and Now, Merchant Marine Is Vital As the featured speaker last month at the opening of the World War II merchant marine poster exhibit at the Paul Hall Center, Maritime Administrator Albert Herberger decided to "set the record straight" about the U.S. merchant marine. In addition to praising the World War II merchant marine, Herberger, a retired U.S. Navy admiral, pointed out that America's need for a strong domestic fleet is as vital today as it ever has been. "I am telling you, from everything the experts can see, 95 percent of materiel for the foreseeable future will have to [be transported] in merchant ships. And therefore, history has not closed the chapter on us .... There are merchant ships steaming to Bosnia. The need will go on," stated Herberger, one of the staunchest supporters of maritime Former SIU member Rendich Meola addresses crowd last month at revitalization legislation currently the opening of the WWII merchant marine poster exhibit. before Congress. Maritime Administrator Albert Herberger said the posters "inspire future generations to continue service to this country." He also noted that today's American merchant mariners are battling against not only exploited and heavily subsidized foreign c:;ompetition, but also misinformation being foisted upon the press and Congress by foes of the U.S. fleet. "Just as misinformation about communist elements amongst World War II seamen prevented recognition of mariners as veterans, today there is a flurry of misinformation to the media in an effort to discredit the merchant marine," Herberger said. As an example, Herberger pointed out, "While 80 percent of the cargoes for Desert Shield/Desert Storm were carried by U.S. civilian mariners on U.S. ships, the message has been depicted as if it was only eight percent." The admiral said that it is up to U.S.-flag proponents to combat the erroneous information. "We need to raise our voices and be as active as possible in preserving the merchant marine." 5 �6 SEAFARERS LOG AUGUST1995 Tanker Operations Course Added for Late '95 The Paul Hall Center's Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, Md. has added another 1995 session to its schedule of four-week tanker operation/safety courses. The newly scheduled class (the final one to start this year) begins November 20 and ends December 15. A complete Lundeberg School course schedule and registration information appear on page 23. Completing the tanker safety course is mandatory for all Seafarers who sail aboard tankers, regardless of which department they sail in. However, members of the steward department only are required to finish the first two weeks of the class. Hundreds of Seafarers have taken the course since the Paul Hall Center began offering it in Januacy. In written critiques of the class submitted to instructors, and in interviews with the Seafarers LOG, they have offered particularly enthusiastic praise for the confinedspace entry and rescue segment as well as the oil spill/hazardous materials (hazmat) prevention and recovery training. Each of those week-long sections features extensive practical training. Students in all tanker operation/safety courses practice the proper way to use protective clothing and breathing gear. The course also covers numerous related topics in order to promote maximum safety aboard tankers. Seafarers study tanker construction, chemical and physical properties of petroleum products, fire chemistry, oilremoval contingency plans and much more. Lundeberg School instructors developed the class in response to regulations stemming from the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (OPA '90). It includes hands-on training and classroom instruction, as was agreed during negotiations between the union and SIU-contracted tanker companies. Upgraders discuss the course with SIU President Michael Sacco (far left). Pictured from left are Charlie Durden, Steven Bush and Daniel Eckert. Senate Subcommittee Collects Evidence on Need for U.S. Fleet a.=.11==M=a=rit=im=eB=ri=efs==.111 Continued from page 3 Record Number of Foreign Ships Detained Due to Safety Problems House and supported by the SIU and other maritime unions. He stated he planned to have such legislation before the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee before the end of summer. The House, like the Senate, is contemplating a 10-year program in which the Department of Transportation (DOT) would provide $100 million annually to help fund approximately 50 U.S.flag containerships. The companies receiving the federal dollars would make their vessels available to the Department of Defense in times of national emergency or war. General cargo ships and old bulk carriers constituted the majority of the record 1,597 foreign vessels that were detained last year in European and Canadian ports because they failed safety tests, according to the 1994 annual report of the Paris Memorandum of Understanding on Port State Control. The report, released last month, was signed by representatives of the 16 countries which coordinate their national port state control inspections. Passenger vessels and East European fish factory ships also were among those detained. The total number marked a substantial increase from the 926 detentions that took place in 1993-partly due to new detention procedures. Broken navigational equipment, faulty firefighting gear and inadequate or broken lifesaving equipment were the most common problems found by Canadian and European inspectors, the report noted. They also discovered structural defects on some vessels, although their inspections typically covered only operational matters. The report further stated that during the past three years, ships flying the flags of Malta and Cyprus, two runaway-flag ship registries, have the worst safety records among the largest flag states. Urge Congressional Support Representatives of the U.S. maritime unions called on the subcommittee to propose and push through the Senate maritime revitalization legislation. SIU President Michael Sacco, who spoke on behalf of the maritime unions, told the subcommittee, "We strongly affirm our support for the enactment of maritime revitalization legislation which fosters the growth of a newer, more modern and efficient fleet of United States-flag vessels crewed by United States citizens. "We remain convinced the expenditure of such funds to support the merchant marine will enhance the economic, political and military security of our nation." National Security Concerns The role the U.S.-flag merchant fleet has played in national security was a high priority for the members of the subcommittee as seen in their statements and questions for witnesses. Lott, who also holds the second highest ranking position in the Senate as majority whip, Listening to testimony during the July 26 maritime revitalization hearing are, from left, Senators Daniel Inouye (D-Hawaii), ranking minority party member of the Senate Surface Transportation and Merchant Marine Subcommittee, and Trent Lott (R-Miss.), subcommittee chairman. pointed out the U.S.-flag mer- tional security is not the only chantfleethasplayed~vitalfunc- reason an American-flag mertion in supplying U.S. armed chant fleet is needed. There are forces during times of crisis. safety and environmental con" In times of international cems as well. crisis or war, our historical and "If we lose presence as a flag successful reliance on the U.S.- state-we only become a port flag fleet and the merchant state-we'll lose influence in all marines has been very, very im- those international arenas regardportant," Lott stated in his open- ing safety, environmental and all ing remarks. those other concerns," Herberger Senator John Breaux (D-La.), told the subcommittee. "We'll quoting from the Doris Kerns not have a place at the table. Goodwin book "No Ordinary "Since the beginning of our Times," repeated the words of country, it's been in this country:s U.S. Maritime Commission bestinteresttohaveapresencem Chairman Emery S. Land in early our own trade. [We must] be sure 1942, '"We are a war of transpor- that we continue to have leverage tation, a war of ships. It's no . . . and influence and not be totally at sense making guns and tanks to the mercy of foreign entities, the be left in the United States."' likes of which we cannot even Breaux then brought Land's describ~ today in terms of statement to today's times. "If economic blocks, cartels and you judge history, we see very others ,~hat w~uld take adclearly that the crucial ingredient van~ge, the rettred U.S. Navy in part to the defense and security adnural added. of the United States is not just how Speaking on behalf of the many guns and tanks we have but U.S.-flag liner companies, Seahow many ships and men to crew Land Service President John those ships we have to take those Clancey told the senators that the weapons to places where we are Ame~ican_ merchant fle~t involved in conflict." "provides important economic benefits, including jobs, tax Safety, Environment Issues revenues and assurance that freight Maritime Administrator Al- rates to and from the U.S. are not bert Herberger noted that na- set solely by foreign interests." J,. J,. J,. Matson Navigation Co. Revises California-Hawaii Services Seafarers-contracted Matson Navigation Co. has revised its twiceweekly service from Southern California to Hawaii, the company announced last month. As of July 26, transit time for Matson's Saturday sailing from Los Angeles to Honolulu has been cut by 10 hours. In addition, Matson's "Neighbor Island" schedule has been improved in each of the major ports of Hawaii (Kawaihae, Hilo and Nawiliwili). The accelerated service primarily results from the reassignment of the Maui and Kauai to the Saturday sailing from Los Angeles. The Lurline and the Matsonia also add capacity to the region's weekly RO/RO service, which departs Los Angeles on Wednesdays. J,. J,. J,. U.S. Coast Guard Ends Its Use of Morse Code U.S. Coast Guard communications centers recently stopped all their Morse code operations, which have been supplanted by modem technologies. The old system, invented in the 1840s by Samuel F.B. Morse, had been used by the Coast Guard to provide weather reports and safety information to ships, as well as to receive distress calls sent by mariners aboard vessels. Some Morse code messages were sent using dots and dashes representing letters; others were compressed into shorthand or abbreviations, such as SOS (Save Our Ship). A Coast Guard spokesman told The Baltimore Sun newspaper that an estimated 90 percent of deep sea ships receive Coast Guard . services via computers and radio-Teletype machines. Merchant vessels of major seafaring countries also use a variety of radio systems, including those known as SITOR, NAVTEX, INMARSAT and SafetyNET. �AUGUST1995 SEAFARERS LOG ~ Seafarers Crew New /TB In Penn Maritime Fleet Seafarers now are sailing aboard the second of two new integrated tug-barges (ITBs) to join the Penn Maritime fleet this year. The barge Caribbean and the tug Lucia departed from a Mobile, Ala. shipyard on June 26 for Corpus Christi, Texas where the vessel picked up its first cargo of petroleum to be transported to Philadelphia. " I worked really hard familiarizing myself with the Looking over charts in the wheel· house of the Lucia is First Mate barge before we got underway," recalled Tankerman Larry Henk Rekelhoff. Evans, a second generation Seafarer who, along with several others, boarded the ITB while it was still in the Alabama shipyard to assist and oversee construction. "It was still on the building blocks when I arrived," said Evans. "It is the greatest thing since mom's apple pie. It is the first new vessel I have ever sailed on, not to mention the first I have ever brought out of the shipyard. I have spent a lot of time in shipyards but never with a brand new vessel," he stated. The tankennan went over the heaters, the generators, pipelines and "crawled every inch of the barge from stem to stern" to familiarize himself with the vessel before sailing it out of the shipyard. "It was a really unique and special experience for me," Evans concluded. The Caribbean and the Lucia join Penn Maritime's fleet of six tugboats and eight barges that move jet fuel, gasoline and other petroleum products along the eastern coast of the U.S. The first new ITB, the tug Eliza and barge Atlantic, sailed J f out of the Mobile shipyard on March 3 while construction was being completed on its sister unit Virtually identical to the Atlantic and Eliza, the Caribbean and the Lucia are designed to meet the latest laws and regulations affecting the industry. According to Bill Oppenheimer, manager of Penn Maritime fleet operations, the new ITB s are articulated tug/barge units. ''What happens is, as the tug enters the notch of the barge, two steel couplers extend from the tug into the notch of the barge and lock it into place. It keeps the tug in a push mode all the time," explained the Penn Maritime official. "It's a nice machine, a nice unit," praised Chief Engineer Donald Bond of the Caribbean and the Lucia. "The entire package surprised me because it went very well. I wasn't sure how the new system would work. Locking the tug into the barge went wonderfully. It worked beyond expectations, I would say," reflected Bond. He added, "I ... _ . LI , ._......,........llllliililllllililllBilii•illiliA....;...; Chief Engineer Donald Bond rinses out his coffee cup in the new galley aboard the Lucia following a brief break. ~,_,,,-·.'· ' · AB!Tankerman Larry Evans became familiar with the Caribbean from "stem to stern" even before the barge left the Mobile, Ala. e 0 Approves Phase Out Moran Boatmen Endorse 01 FMC by 1997 ~ I ,".I~~ .. 0 cHan·t waiuttossaileonitacgain AB!Tankerman Dan Hayes (left) and Second Mate George Shields sign off the Lucia and Caribbean • in the port of Philadelphia follow- Working on the deck of the Caribbean are Second Mate Peter ing the ITB's maiden voyage. Jablonski (left) and OS Jason Connors. #9#9#1Pi U• A.,.,.,. Id M'..W ~11,..... ~el~· ., mshimpyard.itt . • SIU boatmen who navigate Moran tugboats in the Gulf of Mexico have ratified a new three-year contract that covers wage increases and improved benefits into 1998. The new agreement, which began on June 10, covers SIU members who sail aboard harbor and offshore tugboats. Representatives for the Port Arthur, Texas-based company and the SIU held negotiating sessions in Port Arthur during May. The Seafarers will receive wage increases throughout the life of the contract. Delegates to the talks included Captain Charles Tuck and Chief Engineer Wallace Ashwood from the offshore boats and AB/Quartermaster Craig Arnaud, Chief Engineer Cliff Champagine and Captain Pat Thoma~ from ~he harbor tugs. SIU Vice President Gulf Chief Engineer Cliff Champagine was a member of the SIU negotiating committee for the new three-year Moran contract. .,I • The Mary Moran is a harbor tug covered by the new 3-year pact. Coast Dean Corgey and Houston Port Agent Jim McGee also participated in the talks. "I think that negotiations went very well," Tuck told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG. "Overall it is a very good contract and the end results were very positive," the captain added. The new pact covers three SIU-crewed offshore tugboats: the Dorris Moran, Shiela Moran and the Cape Charles. Seafarers also covered by the agreement crew five harbor tugs: the Hekn Moran, Mary Moran, Joan Moran, Mary Coppeidge and Stella. The harbor tugs dock and undock vessels as well as perform other harbor work in the waters surrounding the ports of Port Arthur, Orange and Beaumont, Texas. The offshore tugs transport petroleum and container barges along the U.S. East Coast, the Gulf of Mexico ports and Puerto Rico. The U.S. House of Representatives last month approved a $27.6 billion spending bill that includes $15 million for the operation of the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) in Fiscal Year 1996. But the long-term fate of the FMC, as well as that of the Shipping Act of 1984 (provisions of which are administered by the independent government agency) remain in doubt. Legislation to deregulate ocean cargo transportation by phasing out the FMC and reforming the Shipping Act was passed August 2 by the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. The bill next will be sent to the House floor. The legislation, known as the Ocean Shipping Reform Act of 1995, was put forth by Representati ve Bud Shuster (R-Pa.), transportation committee chairman, and largely is based on a series of compromises between Sea-Land Service and the National Industrial Transportation (NIT) League, a lobbying group for shippers which called for deregulation of ocean cargo transportation. Transfer Duties Representing harbor tugboat crewmembers during the contract sessions was Moran Captain Pat Thomas. The bill would phase out the FMC by October 1997 while transferring some of its duties to the Department of Transportation. It further would eliminate tariff-filing requirements and allow shippers to secure confidential contracts with carriers. The legislation also would maintain antitrust immunity for carriers to set rates collectively. The Shipping Act of '84, through an exemption to U.S. antitrust laws, allows international shipping lines to jointly set transportation rates. The functions of the FMC, an independent agency established in 1961, include enforcing provisions of the Shipping Act of' 84 that call for fair rates and a nondiscriminatory regulatory process for the common carriage of goods by water in the foreign commerce of the U.S., as well as fighting any other discrimination or prejudice in U.S. trade and licensing ocean freight f01warders. Compromise Reached In June, Sea-Land and the NIT League reached a compromise agreement providing the framework to phase out the FMC while maintaining carriers' antitrust immunity and shifting some of the FMC' s functionsparticularly the monitoring of unfair foreign practices against U.S. lines-to the Transportation Department. Reaction to the deal's content and creation has been mixed among both shippers and carriers. But a spokesman for Sea-Land, as well as others familiar with the situation, said that the agreement was reached under great pressure from an impatient Congress. Chris Koch, senior vice president and general counsel at Sea-Land and a former FMC commissioner, said at a recent seminar in California that if industry representatives had not quickly proposed a plan to gradually eliminate the FMC, congressional budget cutters simply would not have funded the agency beyond October 1. The SIU is reviewing the provisions of the Ocean Shipping Reform Act and will keep members updated on how it would affect them. 7 �B SEAFARERS LOG AUGUST1995 Seafarer Orlando Sierra (left) presents Thomas B. Crowley Jr. with the Crowley Maritime Corporation flag that will fly over the campus. Remembering the works of Thomas B. Crowley Sr. are his son, Thomas B. Crowley Jr., and Bradley Mulholland of Matson Navigation. On behalf of the Crowley family, Thomas B. Crowley Jr. thanks the center for honoring his father. Joining him at the podium is Crowley's widow, Molly. Praising Thomas B. Crowley Sr. for his work promoting the U.S.-flag merchant marine is former Federal Maritime Commission Chairperson Helen Bentley. Listening to her comments are, from left, SIU President Michael Sacco; Father Matthew J. Siekierski, who provided the invocation; and Bradley Mulholland, Matson president and CEO. Passing along a story to Thomas B. Crowley Jr. (left) is American Maritime Officers President Michael McKay. Christine Crowley (seated, left) and her husband, Thomas B. Crowley Jr., listen to SIU President Michael Sacco recall what Thomas B. Crowley Sr. meant to the union. Campus on the Paul Hall Center Named for Renowned Shipowner Continued from page 3 Crowley, who died last year at age 79, are set up to provide Seafarers studying at the Paul Hall Center with courses where they learn computer skills, basic physics, safety, first aid and much more. Following the dedication ceremony, Crowley family members and officials from Crowley Maritime inspected the facilities. Others joining Sacco in remembering Crowley at the ceremony were Matson Navigation President and Chief Executive Officer Bradley Mulholland, former Federal Maritime Commission Chairperson and U.S. Representative Helen Delich Bentley and American Maritime Officers President Michael McKay. Mulholland, speaking on behalf of the maritime industry, called naming the campus for Crowley "a generous tribute given by the SIU to a patriot who has given much to our country and industry." He noted that Crowley and his company contributed greatly to U.S. efforts in times of national crisis from World War II to Operation Desert Storm as well as being a leader in oil spill clean-up operations in Saudi Arabia and Alaska. "Tom Crowley was the best kind of entrepreneur," recalled Mulholland, whose company also has a contract with the SIU. "He was an innovator and constantly pushed himself and his organization to find new and uncommon solutions to complex and seemingly overpowering challenges." Received Hands-on Training Bentley recounted several meetings she had through the years with Crowley. She noted he learned the maritime industry "first aboard the tugboats during the tough years of the depression and later in the offices of Crowley Launch and Tugboat Company. "His education was what we refer to today as 'hands on.' Thomas B. Crowley Sr. could fit into any position on one of his vessels at any time-and whenever there was a question of any kind, he was not shy about proving it." She added, "Even though Tom Crowley had received his education the 'hands-on' way, he recognized that in this day and age formal education also was as vital for success as the on-the-spot kind of learning." A · · I Instructor Russ Levin (back to camera) outlines the classes taught in one of the classrooms on the Crowley Campus. Inspecting the room are, from left, Bradley Mulholla~d, Chri.stine Crowley, Thomas B. Crowley Jr. and Neil Alioto, Lundeberg School vice president. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -McKay remembered Crowley as "a man you could count on, a man of his word." He also pointed out that Crowley was an innovator and that his influence through his ideas and vessels still are felt worldwide. Expanded Father's Company Thomas B. Crowley Sr. began working for his father's company, then called Crowley Launch and Tugboat Co., in 1933. He took over the management of the business when his father retired in 1960. Under Crowley's leadership, the company began West Coast bulk petroleum barge service after World War II. Crowley Maritime provided commercial resupply lines to the U.S. military' s early warning detection installations in the Arctic and for more than 20 years ran tug/barge supply operations to the oil industry working on Alaska's North Slope. The company began tug/barge operations between the U.S. East and Gulf coasts and the Caribbean, as well as liner service to Central and South America, during the 1970s and 1980s. The site of the Paul Hall Center opened in 1967 as the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship. The center serves as a vocational training facility for SIU members. The center is operated jointly by the union and its contracted companies. �AUGUST1995 SEAFARERS LOG 9 7 Seafarers Scholarships Will Be Awarded in 1996 ~ conjures up a number of images: Once eligibility has been deterfreedom, shipboard watches, school mined, the applicant should start days. And for seven recipients of the collecting other paperwork which annual Seafarers Welfare Plan must be submitted with the full apscholarship, the word may include a plication by the April 15, 1996 little of all those meanings as school deadline. bells ring each September to mark These include such items as the start of a new academic transcripts and certificates of semester. graduation. Since schools are often quite slow in handling transcript reSince 1952, the Sill has offered a scholarship program, and 242 quests, the sooner the applicant members and their spouses and asks for copies, the sooner they will children have been able to take adbe received. vantage of it. This year will be no Letters of recommendation fonn different. The union's Seafarers Welfare Plan again will award seven another part of the application scholarships, this time for the 1996 package and should be solicited school year. Three of the financial from individuals who have awards will be made available to knowledge of an applicant's character, personality and career goals. Seafarers. One of the Seafarers' Since the scholarship grants are awards will be for $15,000 for use awarded primarily on the basis of at a four-year institution of higher learning. The other two, in the highschoolgradesandthescoresof either College Entrance Examinaamount of $6,000 each, may be used for two-year studies at a community "-------~...-..----........i.------.-.-------.---------- tion Boards (SAT) or American college or vocational school. The remaining four For a spouse to be eligible for a scholarship award, College Tests (ACT), these exams need to be taken no scholarships will be set aside for children and he or she must: laterthanFebruary 1996toensurethattheresultsreach spouses of Seafarers. Each of these four stipends is • be married to an eligible Seafarer or SIU pensioner. the scholarship selection committee in time to be for $15,000 and may be used at a four-year college evaluated. or university. • be a high school graduate or its equivalent. A photograph of the applicant and a certified copy For a dependent child to be eligible for considera- of his or her birth certificate are two other items that The cost of education at the college and university level continues to rise each year, often preventing tion for a scholarship, he or she must: will need to be included in the total application packindividuals from starting or resuming their educational goals and forcing them to scrimp and save in order to • be an unmarried child of an eligible Seafarer or SIU age. overcome the high price tag of higher learning. Appensionerforwhomthememberorpensionerhasbeen All completed applications MUST be mailed and plying for a Seafarers Welfare Plan scholarship may the sole source of support the previo':1s cal~ndar year. postmarked ON or BEFORE APRIL 15, 1996. As be a solution to help reduce the high cost of college (Howeve~, should a de~ndent .c1?-ild wm an SIU might well be imagined the Welfare Plan receives . . ' . . scholarshtp and marry while rece1vmg the award, he tuition. appbcat10ns for the scholarship program, • .i.th hi h h 1 1 f 1996 'll ors he w1'll not have to &"iorfiet't the grant by reason of many . d. .. and 1t Graduation ior e g sc oo c ass o sti ch arriag ) ts often very 1fficu1t to select only seven rec1p1ents for may be about a year away, but now is the time to begin su m e. the awards. For this reason, all applicants should be planning to apply for one of the available scholarships. • be a high school graduate or its equivalent, although sure to fill out the form as completely as possible and applications may be made during the senior year of include all the requested information by the due date. Taking advantage of this benefit is not difficult, but it high school. It also should be noted that if an application was will require some organization on the part of the collegebound student to complete the entire application. submitted in past years and was not selected-DON'T • be under the age of 19--or be under the age of 25 and be a full-time student enrolled in a program leading to BE DISCOURAGED. That person may send in a baccalaureate or higher degree at an accredited in- another application this year. stitution authorized by law to grant such degrees. For both a spouse and dependent child to be eligible, the following conditions must be met: • the sponsoring Seafarer must have credit for 1,095 days of covered employment with an employer who is obligated to make contributions to the Seafarers Welfare Plan on the Seafarer's behalf prior to date of application. • the sponsoring Seafarer must have one day of employment in the six-month period preceding the date of application and 120 days of employment in the previous calendar year (unless the eligible parent is deceased). . Now is the time to start thinking about your educ~­ bonal future. Ask for a 1996 Seafarers Scholarship Program booklet at any SIU hall, or fill out the coupon below and return it to the Seafarers Welfare Plan. "--~-- r-------------------------------------------, lease send me the 1996 SIU Scholarship Program booklet which contains information, procedures for applying and the application form. P eligibility Name __________________________________________________ Address ---------------------------------------------------------------------- • be a high school graduate or its equivalent. City, State, Zip Code ------------------------------------------- • have a total of 730 days of employment with an employer who is obligated to make contributions to the Seafarers Welfare Plan on the Seafarer's behalf prior to the date of application. Telephone Number_____________________________________ • have one day of employment on a vessel in the six-month period immediately prior to the date of application. , This application is for: • have 120 days of employment on a vessel in the previous calendar year. (Pensioners are not eligible for scholarships.) 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. 8195 J L___________________________________________ 1 1 D Self D Dependent Mail this completed form to Scholarship Program, Seafarers Welfare Plan, �10 SEAFARERS LOG AUGUST1995 Wheelsman Mark Knapp pays his union dues at the Duluth hall. Visiting the Duluth hall is Kinsman Enterprise AB Jan Kaminski. Carrying more than a million tons of grain between ports on the Great Lakes, U.S.-flag bulk:ers like the SIU-crewed Kinsman Enterprise had a busy sailing season during 1994. The 1995 season has proven to be no different. In fact, according to Cleveland-based Kinsman Lines, this year's grain totals already are two million bushels ahead of the company's 1994 figures. This is because the . Kinsman Lakers did not transport grain on the Great Lakes during April 1994. (April is when fitout for the company usually begins.) Seafarers aboard the Kinsman Enterprise began their 1995 sailing season when the Laker sailed from its winter port of Buffalo, N. Y. on April 6. By late April, the 600-foot Kinsman Enterprise and her sister ship, the Kinsman Independent, had made a total of three trips across the lakes. After reaching the western end of Lake Superior, the vessel loaded wheat in the Twin Harbors region of Duluth, Minn. and Superior, Wis. The bulker then transported the grain back to Buffalo for use in the manufacture of cereal, flour and other products. As the cargo was being loaded in Duluth, Seafarers inspected the vessel to make sure it was ready for the busy schedule it maintains throughout the summer, fall and early winter months. Photos on this page were taken recently by crewmembers while the Kinsman Enterprise was docked in Duluth. LEFT The Kinsman Enterprise has been plying the Lakes since 1927 when it AB/Watchman began sailing as the ore carrier Harry Coulby. It was bought by Kinsman in Robert Grove su1988 and has since been used as a grain carrier. pervises the loading of cargo aboard the Kinsman Enterprise in the port of Duluth, Minn. During fitout aboard the Kinsman Enterprise, Watchman Curt Mayer works the deck winch. OS Larry Hall (left) and OS Ali Quraish report to work aboard the Kinsman Entetprise at the Duluth, Minn. harbor. Oiler Fred Stover takes a break between shifts on the Kinsman Enterprise. ,.....~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~-, Seafarers Supply Fuel on Lower Lake Michigan For more than 40 years, Seafarers who sail aboard Bigane fueling vessels have been supplying ships in the lower end of Lake Michigan with enough petroleum to get to their next destination. As the only fueling service available to ships in the lower lake area, Bigane Seafarers keep a very demanding schedule. The SIU members aboard the boats transport heavy fuel (used by steamships), diesel fuel (used for diesel-powered engines) and kerosene (used in galleys for ABffankerman Kevin Kelley lifts a heavy hose and fitting stoves). from the deck of the Joseph Bigane to the deck of a ship Sometimes referred to as "floating gas waiting for fuel. stations," the motor vessels are available for ships coming into port in the towns surrounding Lake Michigan. The SIUcrewed fueling vessels meet ships in Gary and Burns Harbor, Ind. as well as throughout the entire Chicago area. Aboard the Joseph Bigane, AB/tankermen like Kevin Kelley and Ron Las work hard to make sure all supply orders are properly filled. The members control the loading of the fuel at a Chicago refinery as well as the hook up of the cargo hoses and the discharge of the petroleum to the ship being refueled. Tying up the Joseph Bigane fueling vessel at the Chicago refinery is a job for AB!Tankerman Ron Las. �AUGUST1995 SEAFARERS LOG 11 Began Career on 'Stick Ship' Mazzola Recalls 23 Years of Seafaring Memories There was always something new to learn aboard break"The first Stonewall Jackson was powered by 8500"From the North Pole to the South Pole, aboard more bulk freighters such as the Joseph Hewes, the first ship ... If you can float there-I've than 60 different SIU ships horsepower steam-turbine engines," recalled Mazzola. on which Mazzola sailed following his graduation from the been there," recalled AB George Mazzola of the "She was a classic. It wasn't too long after my tour that trainee program at Piney Point. numerous SIU ships he has sailed on since joining the they converted her to diesel engines," he said. r=.......,..=,.,.,.,,,,.,..,...,..,.,..,.,..,.,......,.,.....,.......________..,,......,____________,,,......,...,,..,...,,..,,.,,,...,..,_,,_ union 23 years ago. "What kept the jobs aboard freighters interesting was The 41-year-old Piney Point graduate has helped the large variety of cargo. This particular trip we had 1984 deliver everything from pineapples and jet planes to everything from coffee beans to tallow on board," Mazbombs, in addition to seeing the world three times over. zola recalled. (Tallow is used to make soap.) "From delivering materiel that was vital to U.S. troops Tiris 1973 trip to the Middle East was of particular during the Persian Gulf War to safely transporting importance for the Stonewall Jackson and her crew, for thousands of gallons of petroleum to Antarctica, I have they had a new jet fighter in the forward hatch which they been there," recalled Mazzola. delivered to Jordan's King Hussein. "The day after the jet was unloaded, the test pilot flew "SIU crews deliver the cargoes needed by many people throughout the world to survive, and I am proud by the ship at the stroke of high noon," the Seafarer to be part of such an outstanding organization," he added. reminisced. "He came by at mast height at 500 knots, , The Maryland native has sailed aboard virtually every waved, kicked in his afterburner, went vertical and dis'"'r"""he-=Sa----nt""'"'a-M .....a-n-.a~(-D~e-lta~Li-n-es~). ,. . w~hi.....c.h'."."h"""e1""""d"""a.....co~m""'b=in....a....ti=on of ty~ of deep sea v~ssel c?ntracted by th: SIU-break-bulk appeared into the blue. It was quite a show." passengers and freight, was one of Mazzola's favorite ships. freighters, c?nta~nersh1ps, bulk earners, tankers and •combo Ship' oceanographic ships. Throughout his more than two decades of sailing, One of the most unique ships on which Mazzola has Mazzola compiled an extensive collection o.f sailed was the Santa Maria, a Delta Lines vessel. The photographs of each ship on which he sailed and memoirs Santa Maria was known as a "combo ship" because it was from the exotic places he visited, all of which he recently half freighter and half passenger ship. It had accommodations for 100 passengers, including two swimming pools, shared with the Seafarers LOG. "Each ship was a unique, beautiful experience," he in addition to the regular space allocated for freight. said. Leaving from the West Coast, the Santa Maria circumnavigated South America in 60 days. "It was a Hewes Is First Vessel dynamite trip," recalled Mazzola. "We still had our own Among his favorite vessels were the Joseph P. Hewes container crane, so we could load and unload in the ports, (Waterman Steamship), Stonewall Jackson (Waterman but it never interfered with the passengers." Mexico, Panama, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru were Steamship) and the Santa Maria (Delta Lines). Following his 1972 graduation from the Lundeberg just some of the countries the Santa Maria called upon School as a member of trainee class 107, Mazzola signed during its voyages. Mazzola recalled a special ceremony held aboard the on the Joseph P. Hewes as an OS. The freighter maintained a run between the U.S. East Santa Maria when the ship passed through the Strait of Coast and the Far East. The Hewes discharged and Magellan at the southernmost tip of South America. brought on cargo in various ports in South Korea, Hong "It was a tradition for the passengers to dress in costumes and celebrate as we sailed through the strait. SpeDuring his last trip aboard Delta Lines' Santa Maria in Kong, the Philippines and Thailand. "The beauty of the Hewes was that she was a freighter. cial meals were prepared by the galley gang, and 1984, AB George Mazzola takes part in a lifeboat drill. Plain, simple and beautiful. All we needed was a dock everyone would gather on deck to mark the occasion," and we could unload anything, anywhere," explained remembered Mazzola. Mazzola. "With the more modem containerships, booms He added that the area, located near the Antarctic are needed in each port in order to load and unload," he Peninsula, is usually filled with penguins. Therefore, the Santa Maria celebration became known as "The Penguin added. Mazzola noted that because of the speed containerships Party." "The passengers really enjoyed befog aboard with the have brought to the process of loading and unloading, the use of break-bulk freighters has declined. (The Hewes was crew. It was a unique atmosphere in that the passengers a break-bulk freighter, also known as a 'stick ship' because often felt they were a part of the crew. They truly enjoyed of the cranes and booms built aboard the vessel.) Now, the being around us and watching us at work," said Mazzola. During his last trip aboard the Santa Maria in 1984, only SIU vessels which still have cranes on board capable After helping deliver a year's worth of petroleum products of self-loading and unloading in port are the military con- the ship loaded 10,000, 55-gallon barrels of concentrated to ports in Antarctica aboard the Gus Darnell, AB George tracted ships. orange juice in Brazil. It was stored below deck in a Mazzola points at a mileage chart, noting how far he is of all the ships I've sailed, I'd have to say that refrigerated section of the freighter. "Out from his home in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. "The refrigeration had to be constantly monitored so the Hewes was my favorite. The work was so interesting .----:ri1-----......,---__.----...,,-----,,----, and there was always something different to do," said that the orange juice concentrate was kept at the apMazzola. "I can honestly say that I became a better propriate temperature level. The concentrate was being seaman by sailing aboard the Hewes," he added. brought to the United States to manufacture commercial Mazzola noted that the old freighters provided juice," said Mazzola. Seafarers an excellent learning opportunity. "The cargo Coincidentally, Mazzola's last trip aboard the Santa gear had to be expertly maintained. We were constantly Maria was also the vessel's last trip before it was working the booms-taking them apart, rebuilding and scrapped. performing all types of maintenance on the winches and Proud Member hatches. It was a very technical and demanding job, and Reflecting on his time as a Seafarer, Mazzola said, you learned so much," the AB stated. "Adventures of the sea are like no other. It is a life of Memorable Trip freedom and a life filled with hard work." He added that he would do it all over again if given In 1973, Mazzola took a job as a wiper aboard the old Stonewall Jackson. (The original Stonewall Jackson was the chance. "As a Seafarer, I have helped to deliver some bought by Waterman Steamship Company after World of the most important cargo in the world," he said. "Without the merchant marine, none of this would be War II and converted from a general troop ship to a C-4 freighter. In 1974, the company built a new LASH ship possible. Who else can transport such precious goods as which was to take the place of the Stonewall Jackson. safely as American merchant mariners?" Mazzola ques~------.....--~""""'-'........~------' They named the new ship, again, the Stonewall Jackson. tioned. "The bottom line is that as Seafarers we have helped Mazzola (foreground) assists with underway replenish- It is still in service today and is crewed by Seafarers.) The freighter was on a run to India and the Middle East make the United States a better place, and that is somement operations aboard the Richard G. Matthiesen during thing to be proud of," the AB concluded. and left from the port of Baltimore. the Persian Gulf War in the early 1990s. �12 SEAFARERS LOG AUGUST1995 SIU Fishermen Escape Injury as Trawler Burns; Rachel E Crew Rescued by Other Seafarers Thanks to quick reactions and help from fellow Seafarers, the SIU crew of the trawler Rachel E escaped injury on June 23 when an electrical fire damaged the vesselnearNewBedford,Mass. Despite a thick fog which limited visibility to approximately 50 yards, Captain Antonio Pimentel Mate Jose Paxita Engineer C~rlos Cajuda and Cook Antonio Baptista were rescued from their life raft by the SIUcrewed Destiny another fishing boat, three hodrs after the fire forced them to flee from the Rachel E. The Destiny-crewed by Captain Luis Fidalgo, Mate Joao Dias, Engineer Jose Dosantos, Deckhand Hermilio Meca and Cook J. Fidalgo-was alerted of the life raft's position by a U.S. Coast Guard helicopter. The fire eventually burned itself out. Although no one was hurt crewmembers lost clothes and ~ther personal belongings. as well as marine charts and a shortwave radio. The total damage estimate exceeds $200 000. Pimentel noted th~t he and his crew regularly conduct safety drills, but the speed with which the fire engulfed parts of the 71foot Rachel E prevented the men from donning any protective gear. However, they did take the boat'sEmergencyPositioninglndicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) int~ the r~t, and .that act led to theIT relatively quick rescue. The EPil.IBsendsasignaltoasatellite that is relaye~ to the Coast Gu~d an? other radw ?perators to p~nP?mt a founde~ng or. otherwise disabled vessel s location. _ e pra~ti~ with the life ~aft, hf~ nng, hfe J~cke~s, su~~1v~l s~1ts and fire extmgmshers, said Pimentel, who has been an SIU ~ember for 20 years. uBut this time, there was no chance to grab anything, no chance to send a mayday. The wheelhouse was full of fl~es." _ Notw1thstandmg the heavy ~og, the Rac_hel E was.three d~ys mto a seemmgl~ routm~ fishing voyage_ wh~n P1me~tel smelled somethmg ltke bummg rubber. I looked in the windows and saw smoke and flames coming from near t~e engineer's quarters. I couldn t get to the wheelhouse, but my. first concern. was ge~!ing the engmeer out of his bunk. Pimentel succeeded in rousing Cajuda, thenjoi~ed with t~e other crewmembers m secunng the raft. "I was concerned because we have about 9,000 gallons of fuel on the boat," Pimentel recalled. "W. Once in the life raft with the crew, Pimentel activated the emergency beacon. TheCoastGuardpickedupthe EPIRB signal and located the Rachel E crew roughly 90 minutes after they boarded the life raft. In another 90 minutes, the Destiny (on which Pimentel used to work) emerged from the fog and moved in to rescue the couldn't recognize anything, even after it was cleaned up," said SIU Port Agent Henri Francois, who provided the photo accompanying this article. The Rachel Eis under repair in Rhode Island. It is uncertain when the boat will return to service. Pimentel said he and his crewmembers (who have gone to work on another boat) are not discouraged by their recent experience. 'There's no quitting by any of us. After 32 years in the fishing business, I know I'm not Seafarers. More than seven hours later, the men boarded a rescue tug that came for them and to tow the Rachel E. Despite the damage to the RachelE, the2,000poundsoffish caught by the crew went undamaged, as the fire did not extend to the storage containers. But in other areas of the boat, "you scared." Members of the Lopez's steward department also take time from their duties to attend the meeting. In the galley are (from left) SA Tim Mizwicki, SA Rose Mccants, SA Whitey Pavao, Chief Cook Russ Beyschau and Cook/Baker Guy Prescott. AB Chris Kalinowski waits for the shipboard meeting to begin. The 1st Lt. Baldomero Lopez lies at anchor in the waters off Guam. A Military Sealift Command vessel, the Lopez is normally based in the West Pacific Ocean, off the island of Saipan, from which position it can be ready to support a military operation at any time. Keeping Up-to-Date from Afar Aboard· the Baldomero Lopez Gathered in the galley for the union meeting aboard the Baldomero Lopez are, from left, Bosun Gerald Kelly, AB Bob David, Steward/Baker Bruce Barbeau and Pumpman Phil Parent. Wiper Matt Alexander and AB Jeff Moritz take part in the shipboard meeting aboard the Baldomero Lopez. Sailing aboard the Military Sealift Command's fleet of prepositioning vessels often means being based in remote areas of the world. So when SIU Assistant Vice President Bob Hall recently caught up with crewmembers aboard the I st Lt. Baldomero Lopez in Guam-an unincorporated U.S. territory in the Mariana Islands to which the vessel makes regular shuttle runs from its base off the island of Saipan in the West Pacific Ocean-there were many issues the crew wanted to catch up on and discuss. The members reviewed and commented on provisions of the contract under which they sail. Hall also brought them up-to-date on the status of some of the current legislation on Capitol Hill, including the Alaskan North Slope oil situation and maritime revitalization. The I st Lt. Baldomero Lopez, operated by Amsea, Getting updated by Asst. VP Bob Hall on maritime is named for a Marine who fought in Korea and gave issues in the U.S. are (from left) Chief Electrician Bill Amost, AB Dave Condino and SA Dan Ides. his life to shield his men from a grenade. �AUGUST1995 SEAFARERS LOG 13 Seafarers Stay Active in Honolulu Hall Serves as Focal Point For Fellowship, Business Checking the shipping board and the seniority lists in the Honolulu hall are, from left, OS Phillip Toney, AB Barry McNeal and Chief Cook Robert McElwee. The membership activity never stops in the SIU hall in Honolulu. Because of the wide array of SIU-contracted vessels that call on Hawaii, union members are constantly in the hall to register to ship, file vacation applications, check on health claims or catch up on the latest news. "We have a steady stream of members coming into the hall," notes Port Agent Neil Dietz. "Some come to ask questions concerning the union, others take care of shipping business and still others come to socialize with their fellow Seafarers.·· When members ship out, they can catch jobs aboard vessels that regularly call on the port. Among those are Sea-Land, Matson and American President Lines containerships, American Hawaii Cruises passenger ships and Transoceanic cable ships, which are owned by AT&T. Other Registering at the counter is Larayne Powers who SIU-contracted ships that holds a QMED rating. call on Honolulu-area facilities are those of the Military Sealift Command that carry civilian crews. The SIU hall, which opened in March 1991, is located only a few blocks from the Honolulu waterfront. While ashore, some of the crewmembers from the ''White Ships"-the SS Constitution and SS Independence-gather in the Honolulu hall. They are 2nd Cook Noel Bocaya, AB Reynaldo Govico, SA Petronito Ramos, Oiler Edwin Yballa, SA Bob Quimpo, SA Ludivico Castillo and QMED Benny Orosco. Constant Traffic Keeps Santurce Members Busy From tugboats to roll:--onlroll-off vessels, whether operated by Naverias NPR, Crowley, Sea-Land or others, the work is constant for Seafarers along the docks near the union's hall in Santurce, P.R. Union members are involved in the offloading and loading of trailers from the various Navieras NPR vessels that call on the port. Other crewmembers are busy keeping up the ships' maintenance through painting, chipping, inspecting the engines and cleaning the galleys. Formerly known as Puerto Rico Marine Management or PRMMI, Navieras NPR ships sail between Puerto Rico, the eastern seaboard of the U.S. and other Caribbean ports. The nearby Crowley docks host Seafarers busy preparing ships and tugboats for sailing. SIU members crew Crowley ship-docking tugs as well as ocean-going tugs and barges that travel between Puerto Rico and the Atlantic and Gulf coasts of the U.S. Specifically constructed for the trade, Crowley's Puerto Rico facility is the largest in the world for handling roll-on/roll-off vessels. Seafarers also man lightering equipment and oil spill response vessels that can quickly respond to emergency situations in the Caribbean region. Port Agent Steve Ruiz notes the action is virtually nonstop in the area. ''This is a very active port and our members do their part to keep it moving at peak efficiency." Bosun Al Caulder, left, and AB Victor Pacheco are ready to help with the discharging of the Mayaguez, an NPR, Inc. vessel. While in port, AB Ivan Coraliz disembarks from the Crowley tug Ensign. After pulling into the port of San Juan, crewmembers from the Mayaguez, an NPR containership, file down the gangway while AB Victor Pacheco stands watch. During a scheduled break, crewmembers aboard NP R's Carolina gather on deck for a photo. From the left are Chief Cook Richard Worobey, AB Efstratios Zoubantis, DEU John E. Funk, Chief Steward Albert Coale Jr., OMU Kim M. Higgins, OMU C. Benzenberg and (kneeling) Wiper Philip A. Morris. Standing on Crowley Pier 10 prior to the next run for the tug Apache are, from left, Capt. Emerito Rivera, Cook Carlos Roja, Mechanic Pedro Figueroa and 2nd Mate Ted Dodson. �14 SEAFARERS LOG AUGUST1995 Danger at Dawn A - -- t the SIU hall in San Francisco, only a few men showed up during the day to check the rotary shipping board. There were more jobs than there were seamen available. We had been at war for 15 months, and the shipyards were beginning to tum out new ships in ever increasing numbers. I had rested up from the previous voyage (Guadalcanal) so I took the chief electrician job on a brand new C2 cargo ship which was still in the shipyard receiving her finishing touches. There is a tremendous amount of work to do "debugging" a new ship, and we needed a second electrician, but none were available. I had a younger brother working for General Electric in Ft. Wayne, Ind. I told him if he would be patriotic and join the SIU, he could have a life of romance and adventure on the high seas. Like so many other midwest farm boys at the time, he fell for it and joined me on the ship. (Later, after the five Sullivan brothers were lost on a Navy ship, there was a regulation that prohibited brothers from sailing together.) Our new ship was the SS Typlwan, operated for the WSA (War Shipping Administration) by the Mississippi Steamship Co. (Delta Line). We were operating out of the port of San Francisco in support of our forces in the South Pacific. We could carry 10,000 tons of cargo at a cruising speed of 16 knots. Our armament consisted of a 5inch gun aft, four 3-inch antiaircraft guns and four twin-mount 20 mm Oerlikons. Our SIU crew was supplemented by a Navy armed guard of 20 men under a USN reserve officer. All our guns were on local control, but our gun crews trained constantly and made up in enthusiasm what we lacked in fire control equipment. We had sailed in convoy to Espirito Santo in the New Hebrides and delivered our cargo of supplies to "Button"-the supply base for the Marines fighting their way up the Solomon Islands from Guadalcanal. After stopping at Noumea, New Caledonia for bunkers, we were ordered back to San Francisco where they planned to convert our cargo ship to a troop transport. There were no combat vessels available for escort duty because of the Navy's losses during the recent sea battles, so we proceeded alone, making frequent course changes to avoid being tracked by any enemy submarine. During wartime combat operations, contact with enemy forces sometimes results in long drawn-out slugging matches with heavy casualties. At other times, there are short, sharp clashes with inconclusive results and few, if any, casualties. In World War II, the men of the U.S. merchant marine suffered a larger percentage of casualties than any of the services except the Marine Corps. Not May 1943 Pensioner James M. Smith ofKirkland, Wash. joined the SIU in Baltimore in .,,........---.~-------.August 1939 immediately after leaving the Marine Corps as a corporal and as an expert of 50-caliber machine guns. That was also the year that Nazi Germany attacked Poland-and so the European buildup James M. Smith far World War ll was well under way. While in the Marines, Smith had studied basic electricity and was well situated to take the U.S. Commerce Department exam for a merchant mariner's electrician's endorsement. (The Commerce Department handled merchant marine operations prior . the same time we saw them, and they started to come hard right. Our 3-inch gun crews immediately opened fire as we also started a hard turn to starboard. We wanted to bring our 5-inch gun to bear, and also the stem of our ship would make a smaller target. On the submarine, the gun crew came tumbling out of the hatch and started to man their big 6-inch deck gun on the foredeck, but at that time the first round from our 5-inch gun went whooshing by them and splashed just beyond their boat. The second round was just a little short. We had them bracketed! By now, both ships had completed their tum and were in line astern, about 2,000 yards apart. Even with the bow-on silhouette of the sub and the dim light, our gun crews were putting some shells close aboard their boat. The enemy submarine commander must have decided it was a losing proposition. I'm sure he didn't want to get a hole punched in his boat so he couldn •t submerge with our aircraft in the area. He recalled the deck gun crew and they did a crash dive. The whole action had taken only a few minutes. Aboard the Typhoon, we immediately executed that classic maneuver to get us out as quickly as possible. We opened all the nozzles on the turbine and were soon up to maximum speed and out of range. After all, they were armed with torpedoes and a 6-inch gun that had a longer range than ours, so retreat was in order. We often wondered if we actually did get any Ocean hits on their submarine, but we felt we had done well under the circumstances. However, in any engagement with the enemy, would take it across our bow. Those of us it is only the registered hits that count. After-action report: As chief still sleeping were jolted awake by our call to "general quarters" and the mad electrician, I had noticed during practice scramble to man our stations. Submarines normally cruised on the surface at night, charging batteries and with their diesel engines making a racket. T h e i r lookouts saw us about to 1981, when jurisdiction was transferred ta the Transportation Department.) Brother Smith continued to sail in the merchant marine during WWII, the Korean conflict and the early part of the Vietnam War. In this dramatic retelling of his merchant ship's encounter with a Japanese submarine, Brother Smith refers to the five Sullivan brothers. These were five members of the same family serving in the U.S. Navy. The brothers were sailors aboard the USS Juneau when it was sunk November 12, 1942 during the Battle of Guadalcanal. All.five brothers lost their lives, leading the Navy to issue an order that members of the same family could not serve together. The Seafarers LOG. in its September and October 1994 editions, ran portions of Smith's WWII diary dealing with merchant marine operations around Guadalcanal. ~.. New Caledonia NOUMEA ~ that we couldn't fight, but due to the nature of submarine warfare, we seldom saw our enemy or even knew of his presence until our ship was blown apart by the underwater explosion of a torpedo warhead. In the rare instances when we could fight back, we tried to inflict as much damage as possible with the weapons we had. It was the third day at sea after leaving Noumea. In the gray light of predawn, the men in the forward 3-inch gun platforms were in their usual early morning "condition two" readiness, scanning the calm tropical sea for any sign of surface craft or aircraft. Suddenly a long dark shape seemed to ap,,.-:;_pear out of nowhere, al/'""'\/ ,,...most dead ahead r:;· _. .---. \ ..,and on a course , - ---V ' t h a t . r .,( ,· \'\ I by James M. Smith South Pacific ' ~~ t~ r~ . ~' \·\\~ \~~~~~~ 1 , ''I firing of our 5-inch gun that the jarring concussion would often knock out the control relays on the steering gear motors located beneath the deck. My brother, Robert, was making his first trip as second electrician. I had assigned him to the steering gear room during general quarters. He had instructions to keep those controls operating at all costs so that we would not lose steering. Robert was running aft to man his station. The 5-inch gun was trained forward on the port side as we were making our tum, and he was directly under the gun barrel when they fired that first round. I saw him fall down, get up, then stagger down to the steering gear room. He was lucky: he was deaf only for several days. We always maintained radio silence when at sea to prevent a fix by enemy RDF (Radio Direction Finder). When the action started, our radio operator sent out a contact report and our position. After the action, we again maintained radio silence. Two weeks later, when we came steaming under the Golden Gate Bridge, everyone was surprised. At the union hall, the word had gone out that the SS Typhoon had been lost to enemy action and there were no survivors. I was happy to inform them that our demise had been somewhat exaggerated. �AUGUST1995 SEAFARERS LOG Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Trip Reliefs **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C Baltimore Norfolk Mobile New Orleans Jacksonville San Francisco . :W~.b.mngton Seattle Puerto Rico Honolulu Houston St. Louis Piney Point Algonac Totals Port New York Philadelphia Baltimore Norfolk Mobile New Orleans 33 3 7 6 14 28 29 21 12 27 9 7 25 39 7 14 12 16 22 20 17 24 16 4 17 4 1 0 7 0 3 1 3 4 4 0 5 5 3 2 0 30 2 2 3 0 0 0 226 245 37 23 5 5 8 7 15 Jacksonville 17 San Francisco 17 Wilmington 14 Seattle 17 Puerto Rico 3 Honolulu 6 Houston 21 St. Louis 1 Piney Point 4 Algonac 1 Totals 164 Port New York 17 Philadelphia 1 Baltimore 0 Norfolk 1 Mobile 8 New Orleans 9 Jacksonville 13 San Francisco 28 Wilmington 12 Seattle 20 Puerto Rico 5 Honolulu 13 Houston 14 St. Louis 2 Piney Point 4 Algonac 0 Totals 147 22 5 3 0 5 1 7 12 2 19 14 18 10 14 4 15 17 1 4 1 1 2 0 1 7 0 4 0 0 0 169 27 14 1 2 2 0 0 5 1 4 6 1 1 3 0 2 5 5 9 9 7 2 6 8 0 1 1 0 6 1 0 4 1 0 83 0 17 DECK DEPARTMENT 20 18 2 2 3 0 5 6 0 13 8 9 6 13 0 25 16 0 23 20 3 16 0 9 12 4 3 22 13 2 7 4 0 2 3 9 15 31 4 3 1 0 4 3 0 2 0 0 168 169 24 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 10 11 1 ,,,·, 0 4 3 2 3 0 6 6 2 8 3 0 2 5 20 9 13 2 9 5 0 6 5 1 10 12 0 1 3 6 10 6 5 12 10 3 0 0 0 2 0 0 1 0 0 91 108 18 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 15 5 1 3 0 0 2 3 0 5 5 0 3 6 0 7 9 0 7 5 3 20 1 1 6 0 1 10 2 1 5 1 0 1 5 2 5 3 0 1 0 0 2 2 0 0 0 0 99 40 9 September & October 1995 Membership Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, Inland Waters Piney Point Tuesday, September 5*; Monday, October2 JUNE 16 - JULY 15, 1995 Port New York Philadelphia 15 *changed by Labor Day holiday New York 6 61 54 1 5 6 2 6 2 13 10 12 4 16 1 6 12 9 18 20 16 20 26 7 3 1 9 2 38 46 11 55 51 27 50 30 45 5 5 44 ·. 8 6 6 17 9 45 45 5 28 Tuesday: September 12, October IO Mobile 0 413 89 8 44 0 4 4 34 8 9 6 0 2 5 26 27 15 26 5 15 1 21 1 27 6 3 4 8 27 31 ' 20 20 3 1 2 3 6 19 9 3 29 3 8 1 5 0 1 0 30 1 4 0 60 245 275 53 8 0 2 1 33 22 3 0 1 0 2 2 0 1 5 8 8 5 10 3 1 0 1 1 16 2 22 9 20 4 2 13 2 14 2 1 0 17 16 12 1 0 1 0 29 14 2 6 0 0 8 0 1 0 1 0 54 267 157 30 Port ENTRY DEPARTMENT New York 4 34 11 2 15 1 0 18 69 Philadelphia 1 1 1 0 1 2 3 3 0 Baltimore 0 5 3 0 3 0 0 11 1 Norfolk 12 2 0 12 1 16 12 0 9 Mobile 1 13 2 1 0 1 36 3 0 New Orleans 4 13 13 3 16 3 7 0 33 Jacksonville 13 3 5 2 9 6 0 3 29 San Francisco 10 18 7 2 42 7 1 23 0 Wilmington 7 2 17 16 6 2 0 12 32 Seattle 4 20 4 4 11 1 13 36 0 Puerto Rico 3 6 6 1 3 0 0 9 10 Honolulu 8 48 72 5 8 5 13 83 0 4 Houston 17 7 12 1 0 0 5 27 St. Louis 1 l 0 3 0 1 0 0 2 Piney Point 14 0 10 3 0 0 1 23 0 Algonac 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 Totals 49 232 163 24 127 0 109 449 30 Totals AU 729 244 382 444 12027 1~94 De2artments 586 81 206 * ''Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. **"Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. 11 San Francisco Thursday: September 14, October 12 Wilmington Monday, September 18, October 16 Seattle Friday: September 22, October 20 San Juan Thursday: September 7> October 5 St. Louis Friday: September 15, October 13 Honolulu Friday; September 15, October 13 Duluth Wednesday: September 13, October 11 Jersey City Wednesday: September 20, October 18 New Bedford Tuesday: September 19, October 17 Each port's meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals 1 10 9 8 Wednesday: September 13, October - 0 5 12 15 57 24 36 Jacksonville Thursday: September 7, October 5 1 406 12 17 24 Norfolk Thursday: September 7, October 5 0 12 0 3 5 l 11 8 5 3 7 2 Baltimore Thursday: September 7, October 5 12 92 0 2 1 Philadelphia Wednesday: September 6, October 4 Algonac Friday: September 8, October 6 Houston Monday: September 11, October 9 New Orleans 37 3 3 3 1 Tuesday: September 5, October 3 ROBERT GORBEA Please contact former shipmate George Meshover at 804 Bolton Road, Far Rockaway, NY 11691; or telephone (718) 868-2069. DUDLEY GRANT Anyone knowing the whereabouts of Dudley Grant is asked to please contact Sam Boykin at 15055 E. Highway 20, C.L. Oaks, CA 95423; telephone (707) 998-1355 or V. Martin at P.O. Box 855, C.L. Oaks, CA 95423; telephone (707) 998-1012. BOB TOURGESEN Please get in touch with Jake Karaczynski as soon as possible at the Lundeberg School (P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674) or electronically on the Internet. His e-mail address is: passeul@atc.ameritel.net. 27 1 Notices 8 MARINE COOKS & STEWARDS PICNIC 27 2 26 15 The annual SIU-MCS pot-luck picnic will take place this year on Sunday, September 10 from 12 noon until 5 p.m. at San Bruno City Park (No. 7 area). Members, pensioners, friends and children are welcome. There are plenty of tables, trees and parking spaces available. 21 32 18 14 151 10 0 3 0 355 527 NEW MEETINGS DATES FOR VA-BASED VETS The Hampton Roads, Virginia Chapter of the American Merchant Marine Veterans, Wives, Orphans and Survivors now meets on the fourth Thursday of each month, at 7 p.m. in the Veterans' Room of the War Memorial Museum of Virginia, 9285 Warwick Blvd. at Huntington Park in Newport News, Va. Upcoming meeting dates are as follows: September 28, October 26, November 23, December 28, January 25, February 22. Anyone interested in joining the chapter or attending an upcoming meeting may contact retired SIU member Max Simerly at P.O. Box 5721, Newport News, VA 23605-0721; telephone (804) 247-1656. - �16 SEAFARERS LOB AU6UST1995 Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes Seafarers International Union Directory JUNE 16- JULY 15, 1995 CL-Company/Lakes L-Lakes NP-Non Priority Michael Sacco President *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class CL Cl1m L Cl~ NP John Fay Secretary-Treasurer Joseph Sacco Executive Vice President Augustin Tellez Vice President Contracts George McCartney Vice President West Coast Roy A. ''Buck" Mercer Vice President Government Services Jack Caffey Vice President Atlantic Coast · .·. ... . Byron Kelley Vice Pre~dent Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Col'gey Vice President Gulf Coast HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr. Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794--4988 BALTIMORE t 216 E. Baltimore St Baltimore, MD 21202 (410) 327.4900 DULUTH 705 Medical Arts Building · Duluth, MN 55802 nz. (218) 4110 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St. Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St. Houston. TX 77002 (713)659-5112 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St. Jacksonville~ FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JERSEY CITY 99 Montgomery St. Jersey City, NJ 07302 (201) 435-9424 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy. Mobile, AL 36605 (334) 478-0916 NEW BEDFORD 48 Union St. New Bedford, MA 02740 (508) 997-5404 NEW ORLEANS 630 Jackson Ave. New Orleans, LA 70130 (504) 529-7546 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave. Brooklyn. NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St. Norfolk, VA 23510 (804) 622-1892 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S.4St. Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75 I>iney Point, MD 20674 (30 I) 994-00 IO PORT EVERGLADES 2 West Dixie Highway Dania, FL 33004 (305) 921-5661 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St. San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Government Services Division (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 161/2 Santurce, PR 00907 (809) 721-4033 SEATTLE 2505 First Ave. Seattle, WA 98121 (206) 441-1960 ST.LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave. St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 WILMINGTON 510N. Broad Ave. Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac 0 10 10 0 9 2 0 6 1 0 15 23 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP DECK DEPARTMENT 0 50 4 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 35 6 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 15 3 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class CL Cl~ L Class NP 0 35 13 0 16 4 0 8 2 0 33 48 Totals All Departments 36 40 0 0 100 92 13 0 * "Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. ** "Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. 67 Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters JUNE 16 - JULY 15, 1995 TOTAL smPPED All Groups Class A ClassB Class C *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals 4 0 6 0 1 0 7 16 0 0 0 0 0 15 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 9 38 2 53 5 1 9 DECK DEPARTMENT 2 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 J6 . . 23 4 8 41 6 8 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 4 0 0 0 0 0 7 0 0 0 0 0 9 0 7 0 0 0 2 2 11 0 0 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 1 0 2 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A ClJWI B Chm C 12 2 0 10 6 13 34 8 0 5 64 13 22 35 0 0 .0 0 JL; 21 1 2 4 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 2 12 3 1 17 . 0 2 11 0 17 0 1 7 71 18 102 Totals All Departments 53 6 10 16 * "Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. **"Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. 1 12 49 Are You Missing Important Mail? In order to ensure that each active SIU member and pensioner receives a copy of the Seafarers LOG each month-as well as other important mail such as W-2 forms, pension and health insurance checks and bulletins or notices-a correct home address must be on file with the union. H you have moved recently or feel that you are not getting your union mail, please use the form on this page to update your home address. Your home address is your permanent address, and this is where all official union documents will be mailed (unless otherwise specified). If you are getting more than one copy of the LOG delivered to you, if you have changed your address, or if your name or address is misprinted or incomplete, please complete the form and send it to: Seafarers International Union Address Correction Department 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 r------------------------------------------------------------, HOME ADDRESS FORM (PLEASE PRINT) 8/95 Name Social Security No. _ _ _ I _ _ _ I _ _ __ D D Active SIU Other D Pensioner ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~- This will be my permanent address for all official union mailings. This address should remain In the union file unless otherwise changed by me personally. ------------------------------------------------------------~ �SEAFARERS LOG AUGUST1995 T he growing ranks of SIU pensioners has been increased by 25 Seafarers who have ended their careers as merchant mariners. Thirteen of the union brothers signing off this month shipped in the deep sea division. Five sailed the inland waterways, six worked on Great Lakes vessels and one was a member of the Railroad Marine Division. Twelve of the retiring Seafarers served in the U.S. military-eight in the Army, three in the Navy and one in the Air Force. Among those joining the ranks of retirees, John A. Hamot graduated from the bosun recertification course and Clyde A. Kreiss completed the steward recertification program at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. The oldest retiring members are Hamit, 72, Domingo Milla, 71, and Glenn W. Reynolds at 70. On this page, the Seafarers LOG presents brief biographical accounts of this month's pensioners. DEEP SEA DESALW. BARRY SR., 65, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1947 from the port of New York. The Texas native shipped as a member of the deck department. From 1952 to 1954, he served in the U.S. Army. Brother Barry makes his home in California. HALIMY. HAMBOUZ, 68, started sailing with the union in 1954 from the port of New York. He was a member of the engine department and upgraded to QMED at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. Born in Egypt, Brother Hambouz now makes his home in New York. JOHN A. HAMOT, 72, joined the Seafarers in 1963 in the port of New York. The deck department member upgraded at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. and completed the bosun recertification program there in 1983. Brother Hamot continues to live in his home state of Massachusetts. CLYDE A. KREISS, 66,began sailing with the Seafarers in 1945 from the port of ·~ New York. Brother Kreiss shipped in the steward department and completed the steward recertification program in 1980 at the Lundeberg School. Born in Illinois, he now resides in Texas. The SIU Wishes Our New Pensioners The Wind to Their Backs and Harbor from Storms Each month in the Seafarers LOG, the names of SIU members who recently have become pensioners appear with a brief biographical sketch. These men and women have served the maritime industry well, and the SIU and all their union brothers and sisters thank them for jobs well done and wish them happiness and health in the days ahead. ENEDINA L. HA TCHL, 66, joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1968 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the sIU· s Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District (AGLIWD). She sailed in the steward department and upgraded her skills at the Lundeberg School. Born in Texas, Sister Hatchl now lives in New Mexico. EARLJ. MATHEWS,65, joined the SIU in 1955 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Brother Mathews sailed as a member of the steward department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. Born in North Carolina, Brother Mathews now resides in Louisiana. DOMINGO MILLA, 71, started his career with the union in 1968 in the port of Seattle. The Hawaii native sailed in both the steward and engine departments and upgraded to QMED at the Lundeberg School. Brother Milla calls California home. GLENNW. REYNOLDS, 70, graduated from the Andrew Furuseth Training School in 1967 in the port of New York. The North Carolina native sailed as a member of the deck department. A veteran of World War II, he served 20 years in the U.S. Navy, from 1943 to 1963. Brother Reynolds lives in the state of his birth. RUDOLPH J.ROMA, 62,began sailing with the Seafarers in 1962 from the port of Houston. The Texas native sailed as a member of the engine department. Brother Roma has retired to his native Texas. HERMINIO SERRAN0,60, started sailing with the SIU in 1964 in the port of New York. Brother Serrano shipped as a member of the deck department. From 1957 to 1963, he served in the U.S. Army. Born in New York, Brother Serrano now resides in Puerto Rico. EDWIN VIEIRA, 67,joined the SIU in 1945 in the port of New York. The Massachusetts native shipped in the steward department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. He served in the U.S. Army from 1953 to 1955. Brother Vieira currently lives in Louisiana. HAROLD T. WRIGHT, 65, started his career with the union in 1969 in the port of Tampa, Fla. During his sailing career, he shipped in all three departments: deck, engine and steward. From 1950 to 1954, he served in the U.S. Navy. Born in Ohio, Brother Wright now resides in Florida. IGNACIO ZABALA, 62,joined the Seafarers in 1976 in the port of New York. Brother Zabala sailed as a member of the engine department. Born in Spain, he now makes his home in New Jersey. INLAND VINCENT BARCO, 56,joined the union in 1983 in the port of New Orleans. He sailed as a member of the deck department. Born in Cuba, Boatman Barco has retired to Florida. CHARLES A.CHINN, 67, started his career with the Seafarers in 1980 in the port of New Orleans. The Tennessee native sailed in the engine department. From 1946 to 1949, he served in the U.S. Army as a member of the Army Band. Boatman Chinn calls his birth state home. EDWARD W. HULTZ, 62, began sailing with the SIU in 1957 from the port of Philadel- phia. Boatman Hultz sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. He secured his pilot's license and advanced in the deck department from mate to captain. From 1953 to 1955, he served in the U.S. Army. A native of New Jersey, Boatman Hultz continues to live there. THOMAS L. KEILL, 62. started his career with the Seafarers in 1974 in the port of Houston. As a licensed operator, Boatman Keill sailed as a captain and completed the vessel operator management and safety course in 1976 at the Lundeberg School. From 1949 to 1953, he served in the U.S. Air Force. Born in Texas, Boatman Keill makes his home in Louisiana. ····''ROBERT E.MURRAY,58, . started sailing with the union in 1960 in the port of ~-=-=-== Philadelphia. Licensed as a pilot, Boatman Murray advanced in the deck department from mate to captain. Born in Pennsylvania, Boatman Murray now resides in Delaware. 17 working in the Great Lakes division and last sailed aboard the Kinsman In- dependent as amember of the engine department Brother Lehto has retired to his native Minnesota. CORLISS J. MacRURY, 68,joined the Seafarers in 1981 in the port of AIL------~ gonac, Mich. A native of Michigan, Sister MacRury sailed in the steward department and upgraded regularly at the Lundeberg School. She continues to live in Michigan. - JOSEPH w. McKENNA, 62,joined the SIU in 1959 in the port of Cleveland. The Ohio nati ve sailed as a member of the deck department. From 1952 to 1954, he served in the U.S. Army. Brother McKenna has retired to his native Ohio. L _ _ ._ _ _ _ _ _ , · EGILG. . SORENSEN,65, joined the union in 1964 in the port of Detroit. Brother Sorensen shipped in the engine department and upgraded to QMED at the Lundeberg School. Born in Norway, Brother Sorensen has retired to Maine. GREAT LAKES JOHNP. BYRNE, 62,joined the Seafarers in 1961 in the port of Chicago. The Illinois native sailed in the deck department. From 1953 to 1955, he served in the U.S. Anny. Brother Byrne continues to live in Illinois. JOHNG. FRANKOVICH,62, joined the SIU in 1958 in the port of Detroit as a member of theGreat Lakes division. The engine department Seafarer helped in several organizational drives on the Lakes. He served in the U.S. Army from 1953 to 1955. A native of Michigan, Brother Frankovich continues to live in his home state. WILLIAM L. LEHTO, 52, started his career with the union in 1969 in the port of Detroit Brother Lehto began RAILROAD MARINE STEPHEN J.HERNICKJR., 63, started his career with the SIU in 1983 in the port of New York. Brother Remick sailed as a member of the deck department and worked primarily for New York Cross Harbor Railroad. From 1950 to 1954, he served in the U.S. Navy. Born and raised in New Jersey, Brother Hernick continues to make his home there. For Job security and the FUture of the Maritime Industry DONATE TO SPAD - �18 AUGUST1995 SEAFARERS LOG , . Despite the calm exterior when approaching the cable ship from the,., dock, Sea~arers are"' busy throu < u* the Global Link performing .. ~ . regutar mamtanance to keep th I ready for action. ~ Seafarers aboard the Global Link have plenty to do. It does not matter if the ship is at sea and crewmembers are laying or repairing cables orifthe vessel is docked in Baltimore and the crew is performing routine maintenance. 1be cable ship, which began sailing in 1991, is kept ready for immediate action by SIU members on board. Some of the deck department crew can be found chipping and painting, while others are busy greasing the cranes used to load miles of cable into the ship's hull. _ _.,.. Engine department Seafarers monitor the vessel's diesel motors and thrusters to keep them at peak performance. In between feeding the crew members, the galley gang makes sure the Global Link has the needed stores on board for an immediate departure. "We never know when or where the company will send us," noted Bosun Jose Gomez, a 22year SIU member who sails from the port of Baltimore. "We always have to be ready to go at minimum Directing crane notice." operations on the That minimum notice can be as deck of the cable little as 24 hours, according to ship is Bosun Jose Chief Steward Gregory Melvin, Gomez. who is from Jacksonville, Fla. "We are always ready to go," he added. The Global Link is operated by Transoceanic Cable Ship Company, a subsidiary of AT&T. Other SIU-crewed vessels within the Transoceanic fleet are the Charles Brown, Long Lines, Global Sentinel and Global Mariner. i) f "<¢ Cable AB Splicer/Joiner Sandra Deeter-McBride prepares a pad eye for painting. Applying a coat of paint to a vent Splicer/Joiner Joseph Cosentino. ,-------.......,j 1 Painting on the deck of the ship is Cable AB Dave Scott. Climbing into the operator's cab of a shipboard crane is Bosun Mate James Jerscheid. OS Melvin Singletary sougees grease from an onboard crane. OMU Shannon Wilson (left) discusses a contract matter with Baltimore Patrolman Dennis Metz. AB John Mclaurin keeps the overhead looking bright on the Global Link. - Chief Cook Lanette Lopez and Chief Steward Gregory Melvin inventory the ship's stores. Cable AB Splicer/Joiner Richard Borden proves you can sit down on the job. Preparing one of his dessert specialties for the crew of the Global Link is Second Cook Dan Wehr. �SEAFARERS LOG AUGUST1995 Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships minutes first are reviewed by the union's contract department. Those Issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. PFC EUGENE A.OBREGON (Waterman Steamship), April 30Chainnan Henry Bouganim, Secretary Patrick Helton, Educational Director Charles Clackley, Deck Delegate Edward J. Gerena, Engine Delegate Ronald F. Lucas, Steward Delegate Leslie Davis. Educational director urged members to upgrade at Piney Point and reminded QMEDs who work with refrigeration materials to take refrigeration handling course at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. LIBERTY Sl:A (Liberty Maritime), May 18-Chairman Williom Haynie, Secretary E. Harris, Educational Director Richard Parker, Deck Delegate James Brinks, Engine Delegate Nelson Lazo, Steward Delegate Molcolm Holmes_ Chairman noted patrolman to meet ship in Corpus Christi, Texas for payoff. Secretary advised crewmembers to take advantage of upgrading courses offered at Lundeberg School. Educational director stressed importance of upgrading and donating to SPAD. Disputed OT and beefs reported by deck and engine delegates. No beefs or disputed OT reported by stewar el gate. Crew requested deck gear. Chairman reminded crew of safety procedures aboard ship. Crew extended vote of thanks to steward department for good meals and service. SEA-LAND EXPRESS (SeaLand Service), May 28-Chairman Ernest Duhon, Secretary George Bryant, Educational Director Brett Landis, Deck Delegate John elley, Engine Delegate David Ali, Steward Delegate Reynaldo Telmo. Crew discussed problems associated with shorebased transportation in Singapore. Educational director reminded crewmembers of tanker operations course at Piney Point. Treasurer reported $1,000 in movie fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman gave special vote of thanks to all departments for job well done. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. SEA-LAND SHINING STAR (Sea-Land Service), May 30Chairman Giovanni Vargas, Secretary Robert Hess, Educational Director Paul Titus, Deck Delegate David Kalm, Engine Delegate Enrique Gonzalez, Steward Delegate Gary Lackey. Secretary discussed importance of SPAD in upcoming elections and asked crewmembers for support in all union activities. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew voiced strong vote of thanks to galley gang for job well done. New crewmembers, Messman Gary Boyd and Wiper Christopher Duffy, commended for excellent performance of duties. Crew asked steward department to add more variety to menus. Next port: Elizabeth, N.J. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next port: Charleston, S.C. HUMACAO (NPR, Inc.), June 7Chairman Clarence Pryor, Secretary F.T. DiCarlo, Educational Director Ron Smith, Steward Delegate R.F. Lacy. Deck delegate reported disputed beef. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine and steward delegates. Crew discussed setting up ship's fund. Crew gave vote of thanks to steward department for excellent menus. Next port: San Juan, P.R. LAWRENCE H. GIANELLA (Ocean Shipholding), June 11- Chairman Henry G. Bentz, Secretary Kevin L. Marchand, Educational Director Henry Hall, Deck Delegate Jon Weaver, Steward Delegate Ronnie Hnll. Chairman announced captain replacing old couches in crew lounge with those from officers' lounge. Crew requested new radio. Bosun encouraged crew to upgrade at Piney Point and read Seafarers LOG. Chairman noted excellent union leadership provided by SIU President Michael Sacco and urged members to donate to SPAD. Treasurer reported $183 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Bosun announced parts for dryer on order and will be received in next port. Steward delegate asked crewmembers signing off to clean rooms for next occu ant. Crew extended thank to galley gang for great food and spectacular desserts. Chairman concluded meeting by reminding crew that SPAD is the key to keeping maritime industry alive. Next port: Manchester, Wash. Delegates Stress Political Action Charleston - Secretary urged crew to write to elected officials about the need for a U.S.-flag merchant fleet. Sea-Land Shining Star Secretary discussed importance of donating to SPAD so maritime issues will be raised in upcoming elections. Lawrence H. Gianella Chairman reminded crew that SPAD is the key to keeping the maritime industry alive. Sea-Land Independence - Crewmembers discussed legislation before Congress affecting the maritime industry. CHARLESTON (Apex Marine), June 22-Chairman Anthony Maben, Secretary German Rios, Educational Director Moses Mikens, Deck Delegate Juan Ayala. Chairman announced payoff upon arrival in port. Secretary advised crew to write congressmen and ask them to stop U.S.-flag vessels from reflagging. Educational director urged members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center and take tanker operations course. LEADER (Kirby Tankships), June 4-Chairman Patrick Rankin, Secretary Tamara Hanson, Educational Director Richard Gracy, Deck Delegate Carson Jordan, Engine Delegate Edward Krebs, Steward Delegate Arthur Aguinaldo. Chairman reported payoff upon arrival in port of New Orleans. Educational director advised crewmembers of importance of taking tanker operations course at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested new movies and antenna for TV. Crew discussed poor mail service to ship and com.mended steward department for job well done. LEADER (Kirby Tankships ), June 28-Chairman Patrick Rankin, Secretary C. Bocage, Educational Director Richard Gracy, Deck Delegate Carson Jordan, Engine Delegate Edward Krebs, Steward Delegate Arthur Aguinaldo. Chairman reported payoff on July 5. Secretary stated job well done by all departments. Educational director advised members to upgrade at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested new TV for crew lounge. MAJOR STEPHEN W. PLESS (Waterman Steamship), June 23Chairman Barnard Hutcherson, Secretary S. Sanderson, Educational Director M. Ruhl. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked steward department for good food. Deck department thanked by crew for helping other departments, and engine deparanent thanked for keeping engines in excellent condition. Crew requested new mattresses. sisters. Next port: Honolulu. SEA-LAND EXPLORER (SeaLand Service), June 4-Chairman Jack Kingsley, Secretary William Burdette, Educational Director Bozidar Balic, Deck Delegate John DeBos, Engine Delegate Melvin Layner, Steward Delegate D. McGothen. Chairman announced estimated time of arrival in Long Beach, Calif. Educational director reminded crew importance of upgrading at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. SEA-LAND INDEPENDENCE (Sea-Land Service), June 26Chairman Carlos Loureiro, Secretary William Bragg, Educational Director William Drummond, Deck Delegate Abdul Hamid, Engine Delegate Juan Garcia, Steward Delegate Munassa H. Mohamed. Crewmembers requested second dryer in laundry room. Chairman reported water 19 Verner Brash Jr., Deck Delegate Ken Hagar, Steward Delegate Daniel Maxie Sr. Chairman advised members to upgrade at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed flag-out of Sea-Land vessels and gave vote of thanks to union for job well done assisting members who lost jobs due to reflagging. Crew commended steward department for preparing fine menus. At recent safety meeting, chief mate and master thanked deck department for professional job done painting and applying non-skid to deck. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. SEA-LAND PACIFIC (Sea-Land Service), June 5-Chairman Lothar Reck, Secretary George Bronson, Educational Director Lorance Pence, Deck Delegate Pamela Tayor, Engine Delegate Justin Rodriguez, Steward Delegate Charli Atkins_ Chairman encouraged crew to donate to A Patriotic Meal SAM HOUSTON (Waterman Steamship), June 18-Chairman Bobby Reddick, Secretary Robert Bright, Educational Director E.E. Neathey, Engine Delegate C.H. Kennedy. Educational director discussed upgrading opportunities available to members at Lundeberg School. Deck delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegates. Crew thanked galley gang for excellent meals. SAMUEL L. COBB (Ocean Shipholding), June 18-Chainnan Gus Koutouras, Secretary Danny Brown, Educational Director Russell Kindred, Deck Delegate Mike Brown, Engine Delegate George Mardones, Steward Delegate Thomas Barrett. Chairman and crew discussed faxing Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez contract-related questions. Secretary noted importance of donating to SPAD. Educational director encouraged members to take advantage of upgrading opportunities at Paul Hall Center. Some beefs reported in all three departments. Bosun extended vote of thanks to galley gang for clean house. He reminded crew to be considerate of each other and to keep noise down in passageways. Crewmembers observed moment of silence for departed SIU brothers and sisters. SEA-LAND DISCOVERY (SeaLand Service), June 4-Chairman Nelson Sala, Secretary Jose Coils, Educational Director Ruben Velez, Deck Delegate Kenneth Stainer, Engine Delegate Johnny O'Neill, Steward Delegate Cosme Radames. Chairman reported new washing machine and TV set received. He advised crew ship will sail from San Juan, P.R. via Panama Canal to West Coast June 29. Deck delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegate. Bosun noted ship will run from Long Beach, Calif., Oakland, Calif. and Honolulu. Crew commended steward department for good food and clean ship. Next port: Elizabeth, N.J. SEA-LAND ENTERPRISE (SeaLand Service), June 23-Chairman William Lough, Educational Director Ray Chapman, Deck Delegate Steve Kastel, Engine Delegate Eric Frederickson, Steward Delegate Cesar Lago. Educational director urged crew to take advantage of upgrading opportunities available at Lundeberg School. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Bosun noted "No Smoking" signs posted in mess room and crew lounge. Crew discussed creating designated smoking area for those crewmembers who smoke. Crew observed moment of silence for departed SIU brothers and Crewmembers report the food is always great aboard the OM/ Patriot, but for the Independence Day holiday, Steward Robert David (left), Chief Cook Joseph Patrick and SA Tracy Blanich went one step further to provide crewmembers with a truly memorable feast-from pineapple-covered ham and roasted potatoes to home-baked desserts and fresh fruit. cooler in crew lounge repaired. He announced payoff in Long Beach, Calif. and thanked entire crew for efforts during recent voyage. He gave special vote of thanks to deck department for hard work. Secretary reminded crew to attend tanker operations course at Lundeberg School as soon as possible. Crew discussed Alaska oil export legislation. Educational director talked about importance of upgrading at Lundeberg School to remain qualified for future. Crew addressed issue of replacing radio in mess hall. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Engine delegate advised crewrnembers to be wary of excessive heat in engineroom and confined spaces aboard ship. Bosun reminded crew to wear safety belts when warranted. Crew asked steward to order clothes iron. Vote of appreciation given to galley gang for great meals and menus. SEA-LAND INNOVATOR (SeaLand Service), June 4-Chairman John Stout, Secretary Jose Bayani, Educational Director Ernie Perrera, Deck Delegate Jerry Casugay, Engine Delegate Lonnie Carter, Steward Delegate M. Abuan. Chairman reported letter from SIU headquarters received and posted. He reminded members to leave room clean and keys with department head. Secretary thanked deck department for maintaining highest safety and sanitation standards aboard ship. Educational director reminded crewmembers to check z-card expiration date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked galley gang for good meals. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. SEA-LAND NAVIGATOR (SeaLand Service), June 26-Chairrnan Steve Copeland, Secretary Rick Juzang, Educational Director SPAD, noting union needs as much support as members can give. He asked crew to keep crew lounge, mess hall and laundry room clean. Bosun advised crew to read Seafarers WG and to keep current on union affairs. He reminded crew to check in with immigration and customs upon arrival in port and meet with patrolman on board before payoff. Educational director advised crew of importance of upgrading at Lundeberg School. Treasurer reported $550 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked steward department for job well done. SEA-LAND PERFORMANCE (Sea-Land Service), June 18Chairman Andrew Mack, Secretary Gary Griswold, Educational Director Daniel Johnson, Deck Delegate Jose Ross, Engine Delegate Bobby Spencer, Steward Delegate Jean Savoie. Chairman extended thanks to deck and steward departments for jobs well done. Educational director reminded crew all union forms available on ship. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested contracts department to look into increasing pension benefits. Next port: Boston. ULTRAMAX(Sealift, Inc.), June 26-Chairman Gerald Westphal, Secretary George Maranos. Chairman com.mended crew for fine trip. Educational director encouraged members to find time while on beach to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. Disputed OT reported by deck, engine and steward delegates. Bosun reminded crewmembers to clean rooms before signing off and turn in keys. He extended special vote of thanks to entire crew for smooth voyage and job well done. I l �20 SEAFARERS LOG AUGUST1995 SUMMARYANNUALREPORTFOR SIU PD SUPPLEMENTAL BENEFITS FUND, INC. BUY•N When Seafarers purchase Franklin International products, they not only buy wellmade items, but also put their dollars to work for themselves and their fellow trade unionists. The UIW is one of the autonomous affiliates of the SIUNA. When it was founded in 1935, the Franklin Glue Company had five employees and sold one product. Today, the business (now Franklin International) employs approximately 200 members of the SIU-affiliated United Industrial Workers (UIW) union and markets a wide range of glues and other adhesives throughout the US., as well as in Canada, South America and Europe. UIW members at Franklin's production plant - which covers eight city blocks handle a wide range of jobs, including mixing raw chemicals to form the different products. The Seafarers LOG regularly highlights various union-made products. This is a summary of the annual report for the SIU Pacific District Supplemental Benefits Fund, Inc. (Employer Identification No. 941431246, Plan No. 501) for the year ended July 31, 1994. The annual rep<>rt has been filed with the Internal Revenue Service, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). The SIU PD Supplemental Benefits Fund, Inc. has committed itself to pay benefit claims incurred under the tenns of the Plan. Basic Financial Statement Benefits under the plan are provided by a trust arrangement. Plan expenses were $8,415,146. These expenses included $724,300 in administrative expenses and $7,690,846 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 1,850 persons were participants in or beneficiaries of the plan at the end of the plan year, although not all of these persons had yet earned the right to receive benefits. The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was$3,092,967 asofJuly 31, 1994. compared to$2,965,498 as of the beginning of the plan year. During the plan year, the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $127,469. The plan had a total income of$8,542,615,includingemployercontributionsof$7,803,355,earnings from investments of $114,619, receipts from other funds as reimbursement for pro-rata share of joint expenses of $474,651, and other income of $149,990. Employees do not contribute to this plan. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on re.quest. The items listed below are included in . .that report; 1. An accountant's report, 2. Assets hyld for investment, Transactions in excess of five (5) percent of the fund assets and 4. Fiduciary infonnation, including transactions between the plan and parties-in-interest (that is, persons who have certain relationships with the plan). To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of the plan administrator, SIU PD Supplemental Benefits Fund, Inc., 522 Harrison Street, San Francisco, CA 94105; telephone number: (415) 495-6882. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements will be included as part of that report. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan, 522 Harrison Street, San Francisco. CA 94105, and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, DC or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department of . Labor should be addressed to: Public Disclosure Room, . N4677, Pension and Welfare Benefit Administration, U.S. Depal-tmen of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20210. 3. Company: Franklin International Products: Glues for wood, carpet, tile, roofing and common household use. Also caulk, liquid nails, duct sealer and adhesives used on envelopes and food packaging. UIW members at Franklin: Involved in all facets of production and maintenance, including mixing, quality control, labeling, packing, shipping and receiving. Distribution: Worldwide, to both industrial and individual consumers. Facilities: Manufacturing plant and warehouse in Columbus, Ohio. That's a fact: Franklin's products are sold in everything from 2-ounce plastic tubes to 55-gallon drums. Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership's money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretarytreasurer.Ayearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds sha11 equa1ly consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member's shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt -~uested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 520 l_ Au th Way Camp Spnngs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard ashiporboat.Membersshouldknow their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. Seafarers LOG traditionally has themselves with its contents. Any such objects, SPAD supports and refrained from publishing any article time a member feels any other contributes to political candidates serving the political prnposes of any individualintheunion,oflicerormember. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed hannful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffinned by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The_ re~p<>nsibili~ for Seafarers WG policy ts vested m an editori~ board which co~sists of the ex~unve board of the uruon. The execunv_e board may d~le~a~, from among its ranks, one mdividual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No moniesaretobepaidtoanyoneinany official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. C 0 NS T I T UT I 0 NA L RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU constitution are available in all union halls. All ED ITO RIAL POLICY - members should obtain copies of THE SEAFARERS LOG. The this constitution so as to familiarize member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All memhers are guarantee.cl equal rights in employment and as members of the Sill. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is en ti tied, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARE RS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purp<>ses including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for_ investigation :1~d appropriate act10n and refund, if mvoluntary. A member should support. SPAD to protect_ and ~~rther his ~r ~er econmruc, pohttc~l and social _mterests, and Amencan trade uruon concepts. NOTIFYING TIIE UNIONIf at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. �SEAFARERS LOB AUBUST1995 ~inal 21 Departures DEEP SEA JAMES W. CORCORAN Pensioner James W. Corcoran, 91, died September 30, 1994. Born in New Hampshire, he began sailing with the Seafarers in 1943 from the port of Norfolk, Va. Brother Corcoran sailed in the deck department. From 1919 to 1921, he served in the U.S. Navy. Brother Corcoran began receiving his pension in April 1970. FEDERICO DE LOS REYES Pensioner Federico De Los Reyes, 93, died May 26. He started his sailing career with the SIU in 1966 in the port of San Francisco. Brother De Los Reyes sailed in the steward department Born in the Philippines. he started to rea;ivc his pension in April 1976. ALBERT J, DOTY Army. Brother Henkle retired in June 1989. RALPH HERNANDEZ Pensioner .,., Ralph Hemandez, 87, died June 27. He started sailing with the union in 1944 in the port of San Juan, P.R. Brother Hernandez shipped in the steward department and last sailed as a chief steward. A native of Puerto Rico, he started to receive his pension in November 1973. ·wi5%; < DYER JONES Pensioner Dyer Jones, 84, passed away Junes. A native of Virginia, he began sailing with the SIU in 1957 from =:::....;;;;.;;.;;.:...____;;~_, the port of Norfolk, Va. Brother Jones shipped in the steward department and twice upgraded his skills at the Lundeberg School. From 1941 to 1945, he served in the U.S. Army. Brother Jones retired in July 1978. MAXIMD.JORAT Pensioner HarryM. Fisher, 70, passed away June 1. Anative of Alabama, he joined the Seafarers in 1966 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Brother Fisher shipped in the deck department and graduated from the bosun recertification program in 1984 at the Lundeberg School. He retired in November 1991. LAWRENCE J. GEIGER Pensioner LawrenceJ. Geiger, 83, died May 15. He began sailing with the Seafarers in 1969 from the port of '----="'--~"'-"--......, Frankfort, Mich. Brother Geiger shipped as a member of the steward department. He started out in the Great Lakes division and later transferred to the union's deep sea division. A native of Wisconsin, Brother Geiger began receiving his pension in October 1978. THEODORE M. HENKLE Pensioner TheodoreM. Henkle, 68, passed away June 19. Born in Oregon, he joined the SlU in 1950 in the port of New Y orlc. Brother Henkle sailed in the deck department. From 1945 to 1946, he served in the U.S. MaximD. Jorat, 87, died October 13, 1994. Born in France, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1968 in the port o an Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU' s Atlantic Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District (AGLIWD). He retired during the 1970s. MICHAEL H. KIYABU Lundeberg School's training course for entry level seamen. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. From 1965 to 1967 he served in the U.S. Army. Brother Lugo retired in July 1994. FRANK OCASIO Pensioner Frank Ocasio, 86, died March 6. Born in Puerto Rico, he Started his sailing career with the SIU '----===---'in 1959 in the port of Tampa, Fla. Brother Ocasio shipped in the deck department. He served in the U.S. Army from 1943 to 1945. Brother Ocasio began receiving his pension in February 1977. "'2:""----i RENEORIANO Rene Oriano, 64, died May 23. A native of Guatemala, he began sailing with the Seafarers in 1968 from the port of New Orleans. Brother Oriano sailed in the steward department. STEPHEN PIA TAK Pensioner Stephen Piatak, 78, passed away June 19. A native of Pennsylvania, he started his career with - · the SIU in 1966 in the port of New York. Brother Piatak sailed in the steward department and graduated from the steward recertification course in 1982 at the Lundeberg School. He served in the U.S. Army from 1941 to 1942. Brother Piatak retired in January 1985. JUNEST P. PONSON MichaelH. Kiyabu,43, passed away January 24. Born in Hawaii, he joined the Seafarers in . 1985 in Piney Point, Md. after completing the Lundeberg School's training course for entry level seamen. Brother Kiyabu sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. Pensioner Junest P. Ponson, 7 4, died May6. Brother Ponson joined the union in 1950 in the port of New Orleans. The Louisiana native sailed in the engine department. He served in the U.S. Coast Guard from 1942 to 1945. Brother Ponson began receiving his pension in April 1982. HERBERT J. LAICHE PETEJ.REED Pensioner HerbertJ. Laiche, 81, died June 18. A native of Louisiana, he started his career with the SIU in 1951 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Brother Laiche sailed in the steward department. The World War II veteran served in the U.S. Army from 1942 to 1945. He began receiving his pension in August 1977. Pete J. Reed, 39, died in an automobile accident on April 27. A native of Maryland, he joined the SIU in 1973 in the port of Piney Point, Md. after completing the Lundeberg School's training course for entry level seamen. Brother Reed sailed in the deck department in both the deep sea and inland divisions and frequently upgraded at the Lundeberg School. RAFAEL L. LUGO Pensioner Rafael L. Lugo, 51, passed away June 24. Brother Lugo joined the union in 1967 after graduating from the MELVIN ROBINSON Melvin Robinson, 83, passed away May 3. A native of Georgia, he began sailing with the Marine Cooks and Stewards before that union merged with the SIU' s AGLIWD. Brother Robinson began receiving his pension in June 1975. CARLOS RODRIGUEZ FREDERICK C. HICKMAN Pensioner Carlos Rodriguez, 69, died April 21. Brother Rodriguez started sailing with the SIU in 1960 in the port of New --2~--=~ Orleans. He shipped in the deck department. Born in Costa Rica, Brother Rodriguez retired in March 1988. Pensioner Frederick c. Hickman, 83, died May 24. He began sailing with the SIU in 1959 from the port of Houston. -=--==~ The North Carolina native shipped in the engine department, last sailing as a chief engineer. Boatman Hickman retired in June 1985. FRANK J. RYLANCE Pensioner FrankJ. Rylance, 78, passed away June28. Born in Massachusetts, he began his career with the SIU in 1962 in the port of Houston. Brother Rylance sailed in the engine depanmem and began receiving his pension in December 1981 . AMELIA SATTERTHWAITE Pensioner Amelia R. Satterthwaite, 97, died May 28. · A native of Louisiana, she started sailing with the union in 1952 in the port of New Orleans. Sister Satterthwaite shipped in the steward department. She retired in March 1967. LEONARD SUCHOCKI Pensioner Leonard Suchocki, 71, died March 15. Born in Pennsylvania, he began sailing with the . SIU in 1962 from the port of New Orleans. Brother Suchocki sailed in the deck department. He completed the bosun recertification course in 1975 at the Lundeberg School. He served in the U .S. Army from 1939 to 1943. Brother Suchocki retired in April 1988. ANGELOS N. TSELENTIS Pensioner Angelos N. Tselentis, 80, died January 16. Born in Greece, he started sailing with the union in 1957 in the port of New York. Brother Tselentis was a member of the engine department. He began receiving his pension in December 1975. INLAND ANGEL ARGUELLES Pensioner Angel Arguelles, 84, passed away June 8. Born in Belize, he became a . naturalized U.S. citizen. , Boatman Arguelles began sailing with the Seafarers in 1960 from the port of New Orleans. He shipped in the deck department and began receiving his pension in January 1975. ELRICK H. HORSMAN Pensioner Elrick H. Horsman, 80, passed away May 14. A native of Maryland, he joined the union in 1961 ~=====:;;;..;.J in the port of Philadelphia. Brother Horsman sailed in the deck department and last held the ratings of tugboat captain and harbor pilot. He began receiving his pension in August 1980. WILLIAM LOESCH Pensioner WilliamM. Loesch, 74, died May 22. Born in Maryland, he joined the union in 1956 in the port of ======:::i Baltimore. Boatman Loesch advanced in the deck department, last sailing as mate. From 1940 to 1945, he served in the U.S. Navy. Boatman Loesch retired in April 1986. GREAT LAKES MARSHALL D. BRYANT Pensioner Marshall D. Bryant, 73, passed away May 15. A native of Minnesota, he began his seafaring " - - - - - - - ' - - - = = - = - - - ' career with the union in 1961 from the port of Duluth, Minn ., sailing in the engine department. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to 1945. Brother Bryant began receiving his pension in June 1986. ATLANTIC FISHERMEN BAPTISTA NICASTRO Pensioner Baptista Nica~tro, 80, died April 1. Brother Nicastro began sailing with the Atlantic Fishermen's Union in 1961 in the port of Gloucester, Mass. The Massachusetts native shipped in the deck department and retired in February 1978. RAILWAY MARINE LEONARD J. PORCELLI Pensioner LeonardJ. Porcelli, 77, passed away May 9. The New Jersey native joined the SIU in 1963 in the port of New York. He sailed as a deckhand, worlcing primarily for Erie Lackawanna Railroad. Brother Porcelli began receiving his pension in April 1979. �I 22 SEAFARERS LOG AU6UST1995 Lundeberg School Graduating Classes .t :;;id;~-# .. LIFEBOAT 7h~~ s Trainee Lifeboat Class 538--Graduating from trainee lifeboat class 538 are (from left, kneeling) Carlos Sanchez, Michael Vogell, Darrell Baker, Paul McCracken, Kathryn Morrissey, (second row) Clarence Knight, Jonathan Bishop, Phillip Jackson Jr., Jason Jaskierny, Jesse Whirley, Walter Wells Jr., Patrick Yarbrough Jr. and Jeff Swanson (instructor). Hydraulics--Certificates of training were received by upgrading members in the hydraulics class on June 28. They are (from left) Mari< Stewart, Dan Holden (instructor), Peter Sternberg, Richard Daisley, Robert Fanner and Peter Himebauch. Radar-Receiving their radar endorsement on May 25 are (from left, kneeling) Mohamed Bazina, John Hurley, Tom Gilliland (instructor), (second row) Brian Bowman, Larry Evans, Thomas Ellis, Joseph O'Connor, (third row) Jim Brown (instructor), Matthew Flentic and Daniel Ticer. Crane Maintenance-Seafarers completing the crane maintenance course on May 31 are (from left, first row) Vernon Castle Jr., Manuel Tan Jr., Mohamed Abdullah, William H. Gray, (second row) Robert Colantti, Alfred Ragas, Arthur Ohdahl, Thomas White Jr. and Eric Malzkuhn (instructor). Tankerman OperationsReceiving their certificates of completion for the tankennan operations course on June 26 are (from left, sitting) Franklyn Cordero, Richard Decker, George Moxley, Michael Hall, Edwin Rivera, Jeffrey Phillips, (kneeling) James Hagner, Blair Baker, Winston Marchman, Robert Allen, Colleen Mast, Charlie Durden, Daniel Eckert, Jorge Barahona, Salvatore Ciciulla, Willie Grant, Teodulfo Alanano, Joaquin Martinez, Neil Carter, Lincoln Pinn Jr., (third row) Timothy Null, Peter C. Westropp, John Konetes, Arthur Baredian, Robert Caldwell, Mohamed Bazina, Joe Clari<, Roger Plaud, Steven Bush, Jeanette Marquis, Anthony Sabatini, Peter Sorensen, William Daly, Jim Shaffer (instructor), (fourth row) Douglas Konefal, Darrell Moody, Daniellicer, Patrick Scott, Joel Spell, Carey Heinz, Stephen Garay and Glenn Christianson. Tankerman Operations- SIU members completing lhe tankerman operations course on May 30 are (from left, kneeling) Lawrence Kunc, Pedro Mena, Robert Kendrick, Robert Garcia, Thomas Vain Sr., Clemente Rocha, Kim DeWitt, Wilfred Lambey, Rolando M. Lopez, Julio Arzu, (second row) Bob Carle (instructor), Kenneth Hagan, TimothyOlvany, Johnnie ,.., Thomas, Curtis Nicholson, Marco Guity, Larry Bachelor, .Neal Jones Jr., Christopher Beaton, Laurence Croes, Stanley Sporna, George Phillips, (third row) Aaron Simmons, Dennis J. Goodwin, Joseph Tengler, Andrew Greenwood, Robert Coleman, Michael Sutton, Brandon Maeda, Felipe Torres, Dock McGuire Jr., Dockery McGuire, Arnold Eckert, Michael Pooler, Thomas Lasater, Navidad Zapata, Joseph Miller and James Cleland. �23 SEAFARERS LOG AUGUST1995 LUNDEBERG SCHOOL 1995 UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE The following is the course schedule for classes beginning between August and December 1995 at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship located at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. All programs are geared to improve job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. The course schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and-in times of conflict-the nation's security. Please note that students should check in the Saturday before their course• s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. Declc Upgrading CautSes Start Steward Upgrading CoutSes Course Assistant Cook/Cook and Baker, Chief Cook, Chief Steward Date of Start Date August25 November3 Com~letion Novemba-·17 January 26, 1996 Engine Upgrading Co~ Start Date of Course Date Com~letion QMED - Any Rating August14 November3 Diesel Engine Technology Odober9 November3 Fireman/Watertender & Oiler October2 December 15 Hydraulics October9 NovemberlO Pumproom Maintenance September 11 September 22 Date Date of Completion Bridge Management (Shiphandling) October 9 October 20 Celestial Navigation November 6 December 15 Refrigeration Systems & Maint. August28 October6 Limited License/License Prep. September 25 November 3 Welding October23 November17 Radar Observer/Unlimited August14 <ktoberl Angust18 October6 All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. Cou..se· Angust28 Date of Completion Start Date lately SpeclaltJ CoutseS Course Advanced.Firefighting .. ....... .. ... . :. . • .. ....-•• ·.~. ..... .. .. • . . . ... • . . . . . ' '. . .• ' . ••· ·i: ·:·;·,-::·:·:·..:':•;.-,........... perations an .. August 14 October 23 · Completion J)esignated Duty Engineer/ September 11 November13 November24 September 21 October19 September 21 October19 Radar Observer/Inland November6 November to August7 Augustll Hydraulics September 25 October6 Additional Courses MaintE~nance Augustl4 September 11 October9 November6 November20 Tanker Operations August25 November3 · .· Limited ~t!l1St"1Lf~~~ Prep;. • Oil Spill Prevention & Containment Sea · riai~~, , Start Date Septembers October6 November3 December 1 December 15 Start Course Date GED Preparation August 22 Adult Basic Education (ABE) and September 5 English as a Second Language (ESL) Ret:elfiflcatlon Programs Date of Completion NovemberlO October27 Deck and Engine Department College Courses Start Course Start Date Date of Completion Course Date Date of Completion Bosun Recertification October 2 November 6 Session m September S October 27 --~----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- UPGRADING APPLICATION Primary language s p o k e n - - - - - - - - - - - - (Street) (City) (Zip Code) (State) Date of Birth _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Telephone__.__ ___.__ _ _ _ __ (Area Code) With this application, COPIES of your discharges must be submitted showing sufficient time to qualify yourselffor the course(s) requested. You also must submit a COPY of each of the following: the first page ofyour union book indicating your department and seniority, your clinic card and the front and back of your z-card as well as your Lundeberg School identification card listing the course(s) you have ta.ken and completed. The admissions office WILL NOT schedule you until all of the above are received (Month/Day/Year) Deep Sea Member D Lakes Member D Inland Waters Member D COURSE BEGIN DATE END DATE If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Book# _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Social Security # Seniority _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Department - - - - - - - U.S. Citizen: DYes D No Horne Port ----------- Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS trainee program? DYes DNo If yes, class# - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - DYes DNo Have you attended any SHLSS upgrading courses? If yes, course(s) taken _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? D Yes D No Firefighting: D Yes D No CPR: D Yes D No LAST VESSEL: - - - - - - - - - - - - - Rating:----Date On: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Date O f f : - - - - - - - - - SIGNATURE~~~--------~DATE _ _ _ _ _ _ __ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. RETURN COMPLETED APPLICATION TO: Lu.ndeberg School of Seamanship, Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075. 8/95 �SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT The summary of the annual report for the SIU Pacific District Supplemental Benefits Fund, Inc. may be found on page 20 in this issue of the LOG. be.r.s.............................................................A~u~g~u~st~1~9.;.-95L.=;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;:;;;;:;;;;:;;;;;;;;;!I •Vi•o•/u•m•e•5•7.•,•N•um .. Cruise Ship Proves to be 'Love Boat' Couple Together Since Introduction at Union Meeting in 1986 The SIU-crewed American Hawaii Cruises' SS Constitution and SS Independence are popular escapes for couples celebrating honeymoons and anniversaries or for those who simply want to enjoy a romantic getaway touring the Hawaiian Islands. But that lure does not apply only to the passengers. For SIU members Pamela and Carlos Ferriera, the ships were the ideal place to meet and fall in love. The two Seafarers met in 1986 during a union meeting while working aboard the Constitution. Carlos was sailing as a bellman and Pamela as a youth director. "We became friends right away. We just seemed to have so many interests in common," said Pamela. They toured the islands together during their off time and began spending more and more time with one another. "I think that it is very important to establish a relationship as friends before becoming romantic," Carlos said. "I think that is what keeps our relationship so ,'%,, strong-that we were friends first," he added. Cabin Steward Carlos Ferriera (left) sets up chilled champagne while his wife, Cabin Steward Pamela Ferriera, turns down the for a couple on their honeymoon aboard the SS Constitution, bed in another cabin aboard the American Hawaii Cruises vessel. Different Worlds While their interests may be similar, their backgrounds are not. Pamela is a native of South Carolina while Carlos was born and raised in Brazil. However, the beauty of the islands lured them both to the Aloha State. "I came to Hawaii to visit my stepbrother after I graduated from high school. I was going through a stage where I really didn't know what I wanted to do with my life," recalled Pamela. "I fell in love with Hawaii, went home to pack my things and moved to Maui," she said. Once settled in Maui, Pamela became a waitress at a local restaurant. One of her customers, an SIU member who worked aboard the Independence, encouraged her to look into getting a job on the cruise ships. "I decided I wanted to try it out. I did and I loved it. That was almost 10 years ago," Pamela recalled. Carlos, a Rio de Janeiro native, came to the United States in 1976 at the age of 17. He decided that he wanted to move to America and "make it on his own." In 1983, Carlos moved to Hawaii and became a waiter in a Waikiki restaurant while studying for his U.S. citizenship test. (He became a U.S. citizen in 1985.) Ironically, Carlos, while waiting tables, also met an SIU member who worked aboard the passenger ships and who convinced him that sailing aboard American Hawaii Cruises vessels was the ideal job for him. Sailing Together Several years after their initial meeting and working separately in various positions aboard the two cruise ships, Carlos and Pamela decided that they both wanted to become cabin stewards. "We both tried waiting tables but we decided that being cabin stew- ards would give us the freedom to try and arrange our schedules in a way that would allow us to be together as much as possible," Pamela said. As cabin stewards, the Ferrieras make up the passengers' rooms and ensure the guests have everything they need for a relaxing voyage. "It is a really fun job. You always enjoy what you are doing because you are always meeting nice people and making their environment more comfortable," stated Carlos. Whether it is the variety of passengers and crewmembers they meet on the American Hawaii Cruises passenger ships or the high level of freedom Pamela and Carlos enjoy as cabin stewards, sailing aboard the cruise ships lends itself "to a good life" for the married couple. "Sailing is who we are," Carlos told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG. "I can't imagine ever doing anything else. The SIU has been truly good to us and we feel very lucky," he added. Since Carlos and Pamela were married in 1990, they have been fortunate enough to have sailed several times aboard the same cruise ship together. "We have been together, as a couple, for almost 10 years now. We have spent seven days a week with one another at home and at work. It is perfect. We never get sick of one another or sailing aboard the passenger vessels," Carlos explained. "We know other couples in the-& who sail aboard a deep sea ship different from the one their spouse is on. They do it, but it is not very easy. We don't want that. We want to be together all the time," Pamela said. 'Gypsies at Heart' "What drew us to this life of sailing and life of exciting travels is that we are both Gypsies at heart," noted Pamela. "We love to go to new places, meet new people and do new things. We want to go everywhere there is to go. The beauty of it all is we can do it because of the type of jobs we have," she added. In their time off the Constitution and Independence and over the course of 10 years, the couple has traveled to more than 30 different countries. "No other job would allow you to do that," said Carlos. In fact, the Ferrieras learned first hand how difficult it can be to find time to travel when they stopped sailing and came ashore to work. In the early 1990s, the couple decided that they wanted to start a business of their own and lead what they thought would be a "normal life." The Ferrieras opened up a ladies accessories and watch repair store in Atlanta. "We thought that living in a house and having our own business would give us a certain type of normalcy that we seemed to be looking for," Pamela said. "It was just the opposite of what we thought it would be. We couldn't do anything. We couldn't travel anymore because The Ferrieras are attending upgrading courses at the Lundeberg School in we were always worrying about our store and if Piney Point, Md. while the SS Constitution is undergoing renovations. everything would function properly without us. It just wasn't all that we had anticipated it to be," the 33-year-old ~ela stated. "We realized that sailing and being active members of the SIU were who we were," recalled Carlos. "It is our life. Sailing suits the type oflifestyle we enjoy, nd I know now that I can't live my life without sailing and the SIU," he concluded. Learning Is Key With the Constitution in a Portland, Ore. shipyard undergoing renovations until next summer, Carlos and Pamela decided to take the opportunity to upgrade their skills at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, Md. "The Constitution is in layup much longer than we originally thought, so we decided to come to Piney Point and learn as much as we can while we are not working," Pamela explained. "I've upgraded before, but this is Pam's first time. I was as excited to come back [to Piney Point] as I was the first time I ever came," stated Carlos, who attended upgrading classes in 1984. Reflecting on the upgrading opportunities available to Seafarers through the Lundeberg School, Carlos added, "The SIU is always giving me a new and fresh opportunity through upgrading. Not many jobs offer you that." "It is a beautiful place and they have so much to offer us. We are enrolled in the cook/baker course right now and may take firefighting, CPR and some other classes we need as long as we are here and the Constitution is laid up," said Pamela. "We feel very lucky to be members of the SIU," noted Carlos. "It is never too late to learn, and Piney Point offers so much. The union has become the foundation of our lives. Coming from a small family, it is a comfort to be a part of such a familyoriented organization. Especially when I work and live with my wife right beside me," Carlos stated. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 1990-1999 Description An account of the resource Volumes LII-LXI Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993; Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource August 1995 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES DONHUE SUCCEEDS KIRKLAND AS PRESIDENT OF THE AFL-CIO MILITARY DEPENDS ON U.S. SHIPS: TRANSPORT GENERAL HALL CENTER DEDICATES CAMPUS IN MEMORY OF TOM CROWLEY SR. IMO ENFORCEMENT EXPANDS IN REVISED MARITIME PACT MTD: NIX SHIPBUILDING ACCORD THAT HARMS U.S. SHIPYARDS SHIP UNIONS APPEAL COURT O.K. OF MARAD’S APL FLAG-OUT WAIVER WWII MERCHANT MARINE POSTER EXHIBIT OPENS AT PAUL HALL MEMORIAL LIBRARY HERBERGER: THEN AND NOW, MERCHANT MARINE IS VITAL TANKER OPERATIONS COURSE ADDED FOR LATE ‘95 SENATE SUBCOMMITTEE COLLECTS EVIDENCE ON NEED FOR U.S. FLEET SEAFARERS CREW NEW ITB IN PENN MARITIME FLEET MORAN BOATMEN ENDORSE NEW THREE-YEAR ACCORD HOUSE COMMITTEE APPROVES PHASE OUT OF FMC BY 1997 SIU MEMBERS SAFELY DELIVER GRAIN PRODUCTS ON GREAT LAKES SEAFARERS SUPPLY FUEL ON LOWER LAKE MICHIGAN MAZZOLA RECALLS 23 YEARS OF SEAFARING MEMORIES SIU FISHERMAN ESCAPE INJURY AS TRAWLER BURNS; RACHEL E CREW RESCUED BY OTHER SEAFARERS SEAFARERS STAY ACTIVE IN HONOLULU CONSTANT TRAFFIC KEEPS SANTURCE MEMBERS BUSY DANGER AT DAWN- MAY 1943 BY JAMES M. SMITH SEAFARERS KEEP GLOBAL LINK WELL PRIMED CRUISE SHIP PROVES TO BE ‘LOVE BOAT’ Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 08/01/1995 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 57, No. 8 1995 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/59ad1eea9c7bd156a9e507ba7148a043.pdf 6e54b37978ecefbd1513c99dbdf70d1b PDF Text Text Volume 57, Number 7 H•dreds of New Jobs Added to SIU Rolls SIU members last month crewed the w orld's 1 -~~===~~. largest steamboat, the ~~~·~ American Queen, and ~;~~ti~~ prepared the ship for its ~ ~-~-=-e-,. _.;.~,:r,,.. maiden voyage. The U.S.-built, U.S.-flag passenger vessel was chris- ·---·-· tened in New Orleans on June 2 and pegan pas- t-t~~ senger service later in the month. July 1995 �2 SEAFARERS LOG JULY1995 President's Report Long Live the Queen Last month, Seafarers helped break out the American Queen, the new passenger steamboat owned and operated by The Delta Queen Steamboat Company. The U .S.-built vessel began its first official passenger cruise June 27, a 16-day voyage from Pittsburgh to New Orleans. I am confident it was the start of a long and prosperous existence for this truly breathtaking boat. Naturally, from the SIU's perspective, the American Queen first and foremost represents jobs for Seafarers. With a crew numberMichael Sacco ing nearly 200 (including Seafarers and members of the American Maritime Officers), the American Queen provides excellent employment opportunities for SIU members who work as deckhands, oilers, cooks, cabin attendants and more. In an era when layoffs and shutdowns routinely are happening in so many industries all across the country, it is especially important and gratifying to see the creation of new jobs for American workers. These jobs do not come at the expense of Seafarers working aboard the company's other vessels. The Delta Queen and Mississippi Queen will continue to ply the inland waterways, with full complements of Seafarers aboard them. Of course, the beauty and fine construction of the American Queen itself cannot be overlooked. Every part of the boat, from the giant paddle wheel to the finely decorated passenger cabins, from the state-of-the-art pilothouse to the comfortable dining rooms, is first-class. The fact that it is American-built only enhances its attractiveness. Years ago, Delta Queen and its parent company, American Classic Voyages of Chicago, made a commitment to American workers and the U.S. flag. That became evident to the many tourism writers, travel agents and others attending the christening of the American Queen in New Orleans on June 2. The new vessel generated an air of excitement rarely seen in the U.S.-flag maritime industry. Without overstating the SIU' s role in any of this, I also offer my most sincere congratulations to the crews of the Mississippi Queen and the Delta Queen. I hope and believe that the arrival of the newest boat reflects positively on the SIU members who for years have worked aboard the Mississippi Queen and Delta Queen. Their dedication and professionalism undeniably have contributed to the company's success, which in turn helped make it viable to build the American Queen. However, the company's commitment has been evident to Seafarers long before the American Queen steamed to life. In 1993, American Classic Voyages purchased American Hawaii Cruises and took over operations of the only U.S.-flag oceangoing passenger ships, the SIU-crewed SS Independence and SS Constitution. American Classic Voyages said it was committed to keeping these two ships sailing around the Hawaiian Islands with American mariners aboard. To show its faith in the future of these ships, the company began renovations to modernize the Independence last year and returned it to service. The work was done in an American shipyard. This month, the Constitution heads to drydock to begin a year's worth of service and upgrading. Like its sister ship, the Constitution also will be renovated by American workers in a U.S. shipyard. The action taken on both of these vessels will keep them sailing well into the next century. The decision by American Classic to construct the new steamboat and renovate the ocean-going vessels represents wellmanaged U.S. companies investing in American workers-not just the crewmembers, but also the shipyard workers and others. In my estimation, that's a great formula for success, and I hope others will follow the example. Volume 57, Number 7 ~ Tl July 1995 The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 0160-2047) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District; AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone(301) 899-067 5. Second-class postage paid at MSC Prince Georges, MD 20790-9998 and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers WG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Managing Editor, Daniel Duncan; Associate Editors, Jordan Biscardo and Corrina Christensen Gutierrez; Associate Editor/Prcxtuction, Deborah A. Hirtes; Art, Bill Brower; Administrative Support, Jeanne Textor. Operators, Unions Challenge Review of Cargo Preference For Federal Deficit Reduction U.S.-flag ship operators and maritime unions are battling efforts by government agencies and Congress to cut funding for cargo preference programs as a way to lower the U.S. government's budget deficit. In response to a proposed rule being considered by the Maritime Administration (MarAd), officials of five trade associations representing U.S.-flag ship operators have told the Transportation Department agency they are willing to consider changes in the way bulk cargo preference laws are being administered. The Mar Ad action and associations' response come at the same time that Congress and cabinet-level departments are reviewing cargo preference laws to find ways to reduce federal spending. In a letter dated June 19 to Joel C. Richard, secretary for MarAd, the associations-including the American Maritime Congress, American Maritime Officers Ser- vice, Labor Management Maritime Committee, Maritime Institute for Research and Industrial Development and Transportation Institute-outlined several proposals they would like to see included in any revision. (Cargo preference laws spell out what percentage of U.S. government-impelled cargo is to be carried aboard American-flag vessels. The Cargo Preference Act of 1954 denotes that a minimum of 50 percent of government-mandated cargo must sail aboard privately owned U.S.-flag srups. The 1985 farm bill calls for 75 percent of government-impelled U.S. agricultural products to be carried aboard Americanflag vessels. Finally, the Cargo Preference Act of 1904 dictates that all Defense Department cargo must be transported on U.S.-flag bottoms.) The maritime associations informed MarAd they "support the principle of cargo preference for United States governmentgenerated cargoes as an appropriate means to help maintain a privately owned United Statesflag merchant marine." They pointed out that the Persian Gulf War demonstrated the need to have trained merchant mariners available to crew vessels in times of national emergencies. Improved Efficiency Is Needed In the letter, the associations' representatives stated that despite the fact some arguments used against bulk cargo preference laws are based on inaccurate information, "we do agree that steps can and should be taken to improve the overall efficiency and cost effectiveness of cargo preference." The associations said the present system to determine the cost to ship preference bulk cargo on American-flag vessels has several flaws. They noted U.S.flag vessel operators are required Continued on page 16 Navy League Honors Brand for Work In Promoting U.S. Merchant Marine The Navy League of the United States presented the Vincent T. Hirsch Maritime Award for "outstanding leadership" to Herbert Brand, chairman of the Transportation Institute, for "his many and varied contributions to the United States shipping industry, and in turn to national security over a span of almost 50 years." Named for the late president of the Navy League who was a fervent supporter of U.S.-flag merchant shipping for its vital defense role, the Vincent T. Hirsch award is presented to "a distinguished American who is particularly effective in creating a broader understanding of the merchant marine to national security." Presenting the award to Brand were Navy League President Evan Baker and Vice Admiral Albert Herberger, the U.S. Maritime Administrator. Admiral Joseph W. Prueher, the vice chief of Naval Operations, participated in the award ceremony and delivered the principle address. The league's award cited Brand for "his expertise and intrinsic knowledge" of the maritime industry which has "aided materially in the establishment and implementation of maritime programs to meet the challenges of foreign competition, and his advice has been highly valued by both industry and government." The citation, given June 2 at the league's national convention in St. Louis, noted that Brand has "played a pivotal role in the enactment of the Merchant Marine Act of 1970, and has been instrumental in fostering mutual understanding and cooperation among a11 segments of shipping, and shipbuilding management and labor, and many segments of Herbert Brand (left), chairman of the Transportation Institute, receives the Navy League's Vincent T. Hirsch Maritime Award for his nearly 50 years of leadership in the U.S.-flag maritime industry. Presenting Brand with the award are U.S. Maritime Administrator Albert Herberger (center) and Navy League President Evan Baker. government involved in maritime affairs." The award called attention to "theleadershiphehasconsistently displayed, as president and the chairman of the Transportation Institute, and that as a member of the Board of Governors of the National Maritime Council he's been essential to the efforts to aid U.S. shipping." Brand's "unswerving dedication to the cause of a strong and healthy U.S.-flag merchant marine has been an inspiration," the league st~ted: After service m the U.S. Navy during World War II, Brand became associated with the Seafarers International Union. He served the SIU in a wide range of capacities, including director of public relations and director of organizing as well as being involved in domestic and international maritime matters. He worked very closely with then SIU President Paul Hall. After more than 20 years with the union, Brand was named to help develop the Transportation Institute, a Washington, D .C.based management association engaged in U.S.-flag maritime industry promotion and research. He subsequently was named president of the Transportation Institute, a position he held until he was named chairman by the board of directors. Founded in 1902, the Navy League of the United States is a 68,000-member patriotic civilian organization dedicated to educating American citizens about the need for sea power to maintain America's national security and economic well-being. To that end, members in more than 300 councils worldwide engage in activities supportive of the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard and U.S.-flag merchant marine. �JULY1995 SEAFARERS LOG 3 The American Queen Steams to Life SIU-Contracted Passenger Riverboat Starts Service The Seafarers-crewed, U.S.built passenger boat American Queen officially began service June 27 in Pittsburgh, marking the start of operations for the largest steamboat ever constructed. Christened earlier last month in New Orleans, the 418-foot American Queen, which carries a crew of 170, joins its sister ships Delta Queen and Mississippi Queen as the only authentic overnight paddlewheel steamboats operating in the U.S. The American Queen can carry 436 passengers, more than either of the other two vessels. All three boats are crewed by Seafarers and operated by The Delta Queen Steamboat Co., headquartered in New Orleans. They offer three- to 16-night cruises on the Mississippi, Ohio, Cumberland, Tennessee, Atchafalaya and Arkansas rivers. thusiasm about working aboard the vessel, which was built by Americans during a two-year period at McDermott Shipyard in Amelia, La., at a cost of approximately $70 million. "The whole crew is very excited. It's just a great boat," said DeckhandAleckBrown,32, who also has worked aboard the Mississippi Queen. "It's a wonderful atmosphere," agreed 20-year-oldDeckhand Ryan Webster, a graduate of the entry-level training program at the Paul Hall Center's Lundeberg School. "We have a good crew, a great captain and the boat is excellent" Seafarers r~ported to the American Queen several weeks before the christening to prepare it for river trials in May. "I've been operating the boiler, changing oil, working on generators and doing some maintenance. formance of crewmembers as a factor in both the 105-year-old company's success and the decision to build the American Queen. "The trick for us is in the way we treat our passengers.... It's not so much the ship's facilities, but the sincerity of the crew that serves [the passengers] and how they are served," he said. Nevertheless, the American Queen's polished 19~h-century decor drew rave reviews from reporters, travel agents and ot~ers who bo~r~ed .the boat Prt<;>r to the o~ftctal maugural crmse. The national n.ewspaper USA Today descnbed the American_ Q'!-een as "a wedding c~ke that mvites Y?U to run.You,~ fm~ers through Its frost~ng, w~1le the (~ew Orleans) !i'!!es- The new American Queen joins its sister ships Delta Queen and Pzcayu'!e simpl~, tabbed It one Mississippi Queen as the only authentic overnight paddlewheel steamboats operating in the United States. grand nverboat. ------------------------------------- House Cons1·ders 11·11 to Export ~~~~o~a~~~!~:rv:~~~~r.:o~~~ Alaskan Oil on U.S.-Flag Ships Following the June 2 christen- Everything's going really well," in g, SIU members on the reported Fireman Ben Strunk. American Queen expressed enThird Engineer Joe Overstreet, American Queen Facts • • • • Crewmembers: 170 Passengers: 436 construction cost: Approximately $70 million Built at McDermott Shipyard, La. • • • • • • • Length: 418 feet Beam: 89.3 feet Gross tonnage: , 4 700 ~~~~r~i~~n~s~~~rs~a':taddle Machinery: Vintage tandem compound horizontal reciprocating steam engines, assisted by two electric zdrive steerable propulsion thrusters and twin bow thrusters Construction:Afl-steelwelded hull and superstructure Accommodations: 222 suites and staterooms "We've had some bumps and grinds, but she's come around. It' s a great boat and a new experience for me. "We have a good unlicensed crew and everyone's doing a good job." Deckhands, cabin attendants, food-service personnel and other SIU members also were busy preparing the American Queen for its inaugural cruise-a 16night venture from Pittsburgh to New Orleans, retracing an 1811 journey of the New Orleans, the first steamboat ever to travel America's rivers. "It's hard work, but it's fun and · exciting," stated Bobby Chiselbrook, a member of the steward department. Jeffrey Krida, president of Delta Queen cited the good per' The House of Representatives is expected to consider this month legislation that would lift a 22-year ban on the export of Alaskan North Slope crude oil as long as it is carried aboard U.S.-flag tankers. The bill (H.R. 70), which has the support of the SIU, already has received bipartisan support in the House Resources Committee. The group marked up H.R. 70 on May 17 in a voice vote in which both Republicans and .Democrats stated their support. (When a bill is marked up, it is made ready for consideration by the next higher level, in this case, the full House of Representatives.) Similar legislation cleared the Senate by a 74-25 vote on May 16. Senators from both political parties stated during the debate that the bill, known as S. 395 in the Senate, would create American jobs and help the U.S.-flag tanker fleet. "I hope people from throughout the country will understand that approvi~g [S. 395] will mea~ that Congress has taken action to _Pre~erve the mdependent tanker fleet and to mamtarn thousands of skilled maritime industry jobs that will be required as we go into this new phase of distribution of Alaskan oil, and it will be done at no cost to the taxpayers," Senator Ted Stevens (R-Alaska) said during the floor debate. Both the House and Senate versions of the legislation call on Congress to lift the ban to sell Alaskan North Slope crude oil to foreign nations, imposed during the Arab oil embargo of 1973, as long as it is carried aboard U.S.-flag tankers. In announcing its support for the measure at hearings in the House and Senate, the SIU stated the bills would keep the U.S.-flag independent tanker fleet sailing into the next century which would provide jobs for American mariners. Previously the union had opposed lifting the ban. However, the SIU changed its position last year when legislation was introduced to permit the export sales as long as the oil was carried aboard U.S.-flag tankers. Lifting the ban as long as the oil is carried on American-flag tankers also has the support of the Clinton administration. During the same congressional hearings, the deputy secretary for the Energy Department, William H. White, told the House and Senate committees that the administration favors the legislation as written. White also noted during a House Resource Committee hearing on May 9 that the U.S. Trade Representative has stated H.R. 70 does not violate provisions within the Organization of Economic Cooperation and Development and the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade. Cape Race Breaks Out for Bosnia ,, Seafarers have crewed a Ready Reserve Force (RRF) roll-on/rolloff vessel expected to participate in the United Nations (U.N.) peacekeeping effort in Bosnia. The Cape Race, operated by OMI Corp., left the port of Norfolk, Va. on June 28. News reports state the vessel is sailing to England to pick up equipment .... ~........-.....;;..;:~ for use by U.N. peacekeepers positioned in the war-torn country located in southeastern Europe near the Adriatic Sea in what used to be Yugoslavia. (RRF vessels make up a fleet of militarily useful vessels docked around the country in layup or reduced operating status that are activated in times of national emergency. The ships are owned by the Maritime Administration, which contracts their operations to various U.S.-flag shipping companies.) Fighting has raged for years in Deckhands Scott Manley (left) and Duncan Armentor clean the American Queen's deck following the christening last month in New the area between Bosnian Serbs, Orleans. The deck gang worked through a powerful and spicy scent, as Croats and Muslims. Through the the boat was christened with a giant bottle of Tabasco Pepper Sauce. use of non-combatant troops from N'' The SIU-crewed Cape Race is sailing to England to load equipment needed by U.N. peacekeeping forces positioned in Bosnia. member nations, the U.N. has tried to stop the fighting but has had little success. Previous American efforts in the peacekeeping operation have been limited to air support for U .N. ground forces and donations of food and other supplies for civilians. The break-out of the Cape Race comes after President Clinton met with other European leaders to discuss the situation in Bosnia. Recently, U .N. peacekeepers were held hostage and being used as human shields to prevent air attacks on Bosnian Serb forces. Late last month, the North American Treaty Organization (NATO), an alliance of 16 nations in North America and Europe, approved provisions to send forces into Bosnia to remove the peacekeepers from the fighting. The U.S. is a member of NATO. �4 SEAFARERS LOG JULY1995 Efforts Continue for Enactment of U.S. Ship Bill Efforts continue on Capitol Hill to gain support for a 10-year program to provide funds for approximately 50 U.S.-flag containerships. The Maritime Security Act (H.R. 1350) is awaiting action by the House of Representatives after the bill cleared the chamber's National Security Committee on May 24. Earlier in the month, H.R. 1350 had been marked up by the committee's Merchant Marine Panel. (The act of marking up a bill in Congress makes the legislation ready for review and consideration by the next higher level.) The bill, which has the support of the SIU and other maritime unions, calls for the Department of Transportation to provide annual appropriations of $100 million over a 10-year period to help fund roughly 50 U.S.-flag containerships. In turn, the companies whose vessels receive the dollars would make those ships available to the Department of Defense in times of national emergency or war. In a letter dated June 22, Representatives Herbert H. Bateman (R-Va.), Merchant Marine Panel chairman, and Gene Taylor (DMi ss.), the panel's ranking minority party member, wrote the chairman of the House Ap- propriations Subcommittee for Commerce, Justice, State and Judiciary to fund the provisions ofH.R. 1350. (The subcommittee oversees spending for the merchant marine.) The second point made by ficient and cost-effective opera- sage of H.R. 1350. Bateman and Taylor is H.R. 1350 tion of United States-flag ships." The Congress would "have the· will contribute positively to Bateman and Taylor stated the opportunity each year to evaluate America's economy. bill would allow American-flag the effectiveness of this program They wrote that the American shipping companies to replace and to consider changes necesmaritime industry provides jobs older vessels with newer, more sary to increase the ability of the which "generate much-needed efficient ships to compete with United States-flag merchant Outline Reasons for Support revenues for federal and state foreign carriers. They added H.R. marine to enhance the economic In the communication with taxing authorities, and improves 1350 also would permit operators and military security of our naRepresentative Harold Rogers our balance of payments and toaltertraderoutes without going tion," they wrote to Rogers. (R-Ky.), the pair outlined four balance of trade." through hearings for government Bateman and Taylor wrapped reasons why the bill should be approval. up their letter by saying, "We are supported and funded. Another matter of concern The final point made in the convinced H.R. 1350 as reported First, they pointed out the bill brought to Rogers' attention by letter to Rogers stated Congress is consistent with the goals and would "significantly enhance our the pair was H.R. 1350 would would have "an ongoing over- objectives of the 104th Congress. nation's sealift capability and "eliminate intrusive federal sight role in the implementation It makes good sense militarily military security. It will ensure _re_g_u_la_t_io_n_s_w_hi_._c_h_i_m_p_e_de_th_e_e_f_-_o_f_m_a_n._ti_m_e_p_o_l_ic_y_"_w_i_th_th_e_p_a_s_-_an_d_e_c_o_n_o_m_ic_al_ly_.'_'_ _ _ __ that our country will not become totally dependent on foreign nations and foreign crews to transport the supplies and equipment needed by American servicemen overseas." AFL-CIO President Lane Kirkland, who started Bateman and Taylor noted an active U.S. -flag maritime fleet his career as a merchant ship deck officer during makes sure the nation has World War II, will retire as head of the nation's "trained, loyal American mer- federation of labor, effective August 1. In announcing his retirement from a position he chant mariners" available in has held almost 16 years, Kirkland stated, "Service times of emergencies. It guarantees America will have militarily in the cause of free and democratic trade unionism useful vessels ready for overseas is a privilege, and I am happy and secure in the conviction that I have been faithful to it. A life spent operations, they added. in that service is a happy one, and I regret nothing." SIU President Michael Sacco praised the leaderHelps Economy ship that Kirkland has provided the labor movement. The congressmen stated that "For more than 50 years, Brother Kirkland has the bill also encourages a domes- given unselfishly of himself to improve the lives of tic commercial shipbuilding and America's working men and women," Sacco said. ship repair industry. "He has held steadfast to this vision. We in labor owe him a great deal and thank him for his unwavering commitment to the movement and the country." AFL-CIO President Lane Kirkland, shown speaking at the labor federation's 1993 convention, announced he Started in Maritime will step down August 1 after 16 years at the helm. Sacco also recognized Kirkland for his concern regarding the U.S.-flag merchant marine. He noted research staff of the American Federation of Labor this dedication goes back to Kirkland's beginnings (AFL). During the next 10 years, he handled a wide in the labor movement as a member of the Interna- range of assignments with the AFL, then the AFLtional Association of Masters, Mates and Pilots. CIO following the merger with the Congress of After graduating from the U.S. Merchant Marine Industrial Organizations. Academy in Kings Point, N.Y. in 1942, Kirkland In 1958, Kirkland joined the International Union sailed during World War II as a deck officer. He of Operating Engineers as director of research and served aboard seven different vessels carrying am- education. Two years later, he was named the exmunition and other materiel in the North Atlantic, ecutive assistant to then AFL-CIO President along the North African coast and in the Pacific George Meany. island campaigns. . . During a speech he delivered at the academy in Elected President m 1979 March 1993, Kirkland recalled being asked by a Kirkland was elected secretary-treasurer of the reporter if he was afraid of a decision he had made AFL-CIO in 1969. He held the position until his concerning a course of action for the AFL-CIO. election as president during the labor federation's He responded, "Afraid? I'll tell you what afraid 1979 convention. is. Afraid is a four-hour night watch on the bridge During his tenure, Kirkland unified the labor Recently named administrator for of a freighter in the middle of a blacked-out convoy movement by bringing the United Automobile the Benefits Plans, Lou Delma has loaded with high explosives and high octane Workers, the Teamsters, the United Mine Workers worked with the SIU for 30 years. gasoline, in a full gale in mid-winter in the North and the Internationa~ Longshoremen's and Atlantic, surrounded bywolfpacks. Warehousemen's Union back into the AFL-CIO. he became the deputy ad"Afraid is knowing that in another eight hours His term saw the first women and Hispanics elected ministrator for the welfare, pen- you are going to have to do it all over again and for to the AFL-CIO executive council, the 33-member sion and vacation programs. many days and nights yet. That's what afraid is, and board that governs the activities of the federation. Delma has continued his I haven't been afraid of anything since." The AFL-CIO also expanded its international efstudies over the years by talcing Following the war, he worked at the U.S. Navy's forts, using solidarity with overseas organizations business classes at both Staten Is- Hydrographic Office in Washington, D.C. as a to help bring successful resolutions to struggles land Community College in New nautical engineer. At the same time, he studied and faced by American unions. York and Northern Virginia acquired his bachelor's degree from the GeorAccording to the constitution of the AFL-CIO, Community College. He and his getown University School of Foreign Service in Kirkland's successor will be selected by the execuwife of 11 years, Andrea, have 1948. tive council. Prior to his announcement, the council four children. After receiving his diploma, Kirkland joined the had scheduled a meeting on August 1. Kirkland Announces Retirement As Labar Federation President Delma Named Benefits Plans Administrator The Seafarers Plans Board of Trustees has appointed Lou Delma, 47, to the position of Seafarers Plan Administrator. Continuing his 30-year career with the SIU, Delma will oversee the operations for the departments dealing with the welfare, pension and vacation programs as administrator. The Brooklyn, N.Y. native began his career with the SIU in 1965 in the claims department preparing Seafarers medical expense requests for processing at the former Plan office, located at 17 Battery Place in Manhattan, N.Y. From 1965 until 1977, Delma held various positions in the Seafarers claims department. At the end of 1977, he went to work with the manpower department. In 1980, he became supervisor of the records and vacation department, assisting Seafarers in processing their vacation applications. Delma began working as the assistant administrator for the Benefits Plans in 1992. In 1993, Rose Hall, Widow of Paul Hall, Dies at 72 Rose Siegel Hall, the widow of the late SIU President Paul Hall, succumbed to cancer on June 20. She was 72 years old. Rose Siegel grew up in a labor family. Her mother was active in the International Ladies Garment Workers Union. She came to work in 1944 for the SIU as the executive administrative assistant to the union's secretary-treasurer, John i Hawk. Later, she was assigned to work Rose Siegel Hall attends the 1991 dedication of with Paul Hall following his election as the union's training and education center named New York port agent . , in memory of her late husband, Paul Hall. Hall soon became the umon s or- ganizing director. Siegel's background and knowledge of the labor movement made her a valuable asset in the union's campaigns to organize Isthmian Steamship Co. and Cities Service tankers during the late 1940s. According to retired SIU official Ed Mooney, "It was nothing for Rose to climb a gangway any time of the day or night to make a payoff or take a deposition. You have to remember, this was a time when women weren't even supposed to be on the waterfront." Retired SIU counsel Howard Schulman recalled that Paul Hall "seemed to encourage her to express her opinion at meetings. Whether he agreed with her or not, he wanted to know what she thought." She continued to work for the SIU until she married Hall in 1950 and retired to raise a family. She remained involved in local civic and labor causes throughout her life. Mrs. Hall is survived by two children, Margo Hall O'Kane and Max Siegel Hall. Services were held June 23 at the Riverside Chapel followed by burial at Greenwood Cemetery in Brooklyn, N.Y. �JULY1995 SEAFARERS LOG 5 Upgraders Tab Hazmat and Confined-Space Training as Tanker Course Highlights The confined-space entry and rescue portion of the Paul Hall Center's tanker operation/safety class is a course highlight, said several Seafarers who last month completed the four-week tanker course. The upgraders also cited the oil spill/hazardous materials (hazmat) prevention and recovery training as one of the most useful sections of the tanker safety class, which is required for all SIU members who sail aboard tankers. ''The first two weeks, when we covered hazmat and confined-space rescue, were exceptionally good," stated Bosun Bob Garcia, a Seafarer since 1969. "We learned a lot of things that will be useful when we're out there on tankers." "It's important to know how to go about checking for different chemicals, as well as what to do once you've identified them," noted QMED/Chief Pumpman George Phillips, who most recently sailed on the Overseas Boston. "We learned a lot about flammability and toxicity. We also practiced using lifelines to get people out of tanks without injuring either them or The OSHA regulation defines a comourselves." bined space as a small area not normally used by employees. It requires that superOSHA-Certified visors or other employees be able to deterCompleting the confined-space train- mine if a hazard exists in the confined ing portion of the tanker course, officially space, and if so, that they are able to seal titled Confined-Space Entry Permit/Safe off the problem and get it under control. Rescue, results in upgraders obtaining cer- Further, it calls for training that will enable tification from the Occupational Safety and workers to execute a rescue of one or more Health Administration (OSHA) via the Paul persons who are trapped in a horizontal, Hall Center. This curriculum also has been vertical or diagonal confined space. offered as a separate, elective course by the During the tanker safety course, Lundeberg School since late 1993. upgraders practice confined-space entry An OSHA regulation that went into and rescue operations aboard the training effect that year requires such training for barge Empress II. This includes the use of some shoreside workers, but not for mer- air-monitoring equipment, protective chant mariners or shipyard workers. But, clothing and breathing gear, ventilators in adding both the 35-hour Confined- and more. Space Entry Permit/Safe Rescue class as Many Topics well as a 24-hour Confined-Space Entry Permit course, Lundeberg School instrucThe tanker safety course also includes tors pointed out that Seafarers routinely practical training for oil spill/hazmat must enter and work in confined spaces, prevention and recovery, as well as the study and therefore stand to benefit from the new of tanker construction, general tanker safety, and chemical and physical properties of elective courses. petroleum products. Students also review sections of the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (OPA '90) and examine the flammability traits, toxicity/asphyxiation characteristics and health hazards associated with exposure to petroleum products. Other segments of the course cover monitoring tanks for oxygen deficiency and talcing other meter readings with atmospheric monitoring equipment; creating shipboard safety plans; fit-tests using respirators; and an introduction to fire chemistry, firefighting and fire/emergency duties. Oil-removal contingency plans, use of federal information guides designed to aid mariners, and rules for protecting the marine environment are among other subjects studied by the upgraders. --------~--· ..···-i "Overall, it's a great course," said AB Seafarers in the tanker safety course learn to identify various types of hazardous materials. Aaron Simmons, who completed the Upgraders at the Paul Hall Center simulate a rescue aboard the training vessel Empress II as part of the tanker operation/safety class. class last month and who joined the SIU in 1992 in the port of Norfolk, Va. "The instructor was excellent and everybody learned a lot." Lundeberg School instructors developed the course in response to regulations stemming from OPA '90. It is open to all Seafarers and, as was agreed during negotiations between the union and SIU-contracted tanker companies, includes hands-on training and classroom instruction. For information on upcoming classes and how to register for the course, see page 19 of this issue of the Seafarers LOG. AB Horton Dives into Harbor To Retrieve Fallen Old Glory Sabine Crews Ratify ThreeYear Pact SIU boatmen navigating harbor tugs in ports along the Sabine Pass in the Gulf of Mexico are sailing under a new three-year agreement. The pact with Sabine Transportation Co. began June 1 and includes wage and benefits increases as well as improved working conditions into 1998. Representatives for the Port Arthur, Texas-based company and the SIU held seven negotiating sessions in Port Arthur in May. Negotiators were able to secure, for the first time, outpatient medical care for the spouses and dependents of the SIU members who sail aboard all seven of Sabine's harbor tugs. The Seafarers also will receive wage increases throughout the life of the contract. Delegates to the talks included Captain Wilton Potts, who sailed aboard the tug Samson; Assistant Engineer Kenny Moore from the tug Hermes; and AB/Quartermaster James Hebert of the tug Samson. They were joined by SIU Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey and Houston Port Agent Jim McGee. "Negotiations were very productive," Assistant Engineer Moore told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG. "I think the outcome was pretty good. The outpatient care was our biggest gain yet. It will really help those of us with families and young children." · Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey (left) discusses the new agreement with Captain William Travis aboard the Samson. The engineer added that he was "impressed with how hard the union worked on getting a good and fair contract. Jim [McGee] and Dean [Corgey] really worked hard for the membership." A union meeting was held in Port Arthur for the crews of the seven tugs where the new pact was discussed before a ratification vote was taken. McGee and the delegates also boarded each tug where the contract was proposed and voted on. The seven harbor tugs which make up Sabine's harbor division include the Ares, Goliath, Hermes, Nike, Samson, Spartan and Titan. Seafarers aboard the tugs dock and undock vessels as well as perform other harbor work in the waters surrounding the ports of Port Arthur, Orange, Nederland and Groves, Texas and Lake Charles, La. For AB William C. Horton, the sight of an American flag floating in the harbor of Santos, Brazil was too much to take. The 20-year veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps and five-year SIU member reacted within seconds. "I went in after it," Horton told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG. The deck department member was on watch the morning of June 4 while the Sea Wolf was tied up in the port of Santos. Horton's duty at sunrise was to hoist the colors on the roll-on/roll-off vessel operated by Crowley American Transport. "I always hook up the blue field first," Horton stated. "That way, the flag unfurls properly when it is run up the pole." As he was following his normal procedure, Horton saw a second flag fall from the one he had attached to the pole. Unknown to the AB, the two flags were folded as if they were one. The second flag dropped into the water. "I stood there and looked," Horton recalled. "I felt bad. I couldn't stand to see it in the water. "I ran down to the dock and dove in to retrieve it." Horton's shipmates watched in disbelief from the vesseJ. As soon as he dove into the harbor, the crew threw a line to help him get back to the dock. "I don't know what anyone else would have done, but I couldn'fleave it there. My years in the Marines taught me to • Holding the flag he retrieved from the harbor of Santos, Brazil is AB William C. Horton. Standing with the deck department member in the bridge of the Sea Wolf is Captain Eduardo A. Sica. respect the flag." His act of saving the flag did not go unnoticed by the master of the Sea Wolf, Captain Eduardo A. Sica, who wrote the SIU to inform the union of Horton's action. "Without the least hesitation, this ex-Marine jumped into the river and recovered the ensign. Some of the locals watched him in awe. We helped him back on board ... and we were very proud of him. "Willie told me that he just could not have thought of anything different to do about it," Captain Sica wrote. Horton began his career with the SIU in 1990 shortly after retiring from the Marine Corps. In between, his job as a mechanic allowed him to do some engine work on military prepositioning vessels. He said he would watch the duties performed by deck department crewmembers and wanted to do the same. Since joining the union, Horton has sailed on a variety of vessels, including one that delivered materiel to the Persian Gulf during Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm. He upgraded at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education to obtain his AB ticket. �,...---------------------------------------------~~--~-~---~-------~-~~ -- - 6 - JULY1995 SEAFARERS LOG Taking a break from checking stores are Second Dariusz Czepczynski (left) and Porter Chuck Chrzan. Gateman Terry Pyrlik visits the Duluth, Minn. hall while the ship is docked. Kinsman Seafarers Shuttle Wheat On Lakes Superior, Huron and Erie The summer months are busy times for Seafarers who sail aboard Great Lakes vessels. This is especially true for the SIU members aboard the Kinsman Independent-a Laker which carries wheat from the Twin Harbors region of Duluth, Minn. and Superior, Wis. to Buffalo, N.Y. Grain harvests are plentiful during the summer months. This results in a continuous shuttling of wheat by the SIU-crewed vessel. The Kinsman Independent and its sister ship, the Kinsman Enterprise, load the wheat in Duluth and Superior and make the long trek across Lake Superior, down Lake Huron and through Lake Erie to the General Mills plant in Buffalo. The total voyage time for each 600-foot vessel is approximately 11 days. The wheat then is used to make General Mills breakfast cereals such as Wheaties and Cheerios. Seafarers began their 1995 sailing season aboard the Kinsman Independent on March 14 in Buffalo. The Laker sailed out of the Lake Erie port on March 29, bound for Duluth, to pick up its first cargo of the year. The photos on this page were taken by crewmembers on the Looking over his welding job in the engineroom of the Kinsman Kinsman Independent when the vessel recently docked. Independent is Oiler Shawn Murphy. · Wheelsman Eugene Pike is ready On the deck of the Great for another busy season transport- Lakes vessel is FOWT ing wheat aboard the Laker. John Rittinghouse. Carrying lines to the Kinsman Independent, docked in Superior, Wis., is OS Karl Bergman. Wheelsman Richard Dhols handles shifting operations along the dock while grain is being loaded onto the vessel. �JULY1995 SEAFARERS LOG Six Bosuns Reach Deck Dept Pinnacle Afterreceiving recognition for their successful completion of the highest curriculum available to Seafarers who sail in the deck department, six newly recertified bosuns thanked their teachers, as well as union officials, and provided words of encouragement to the trainees attending the June membership meeting at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. "I'd like to thank Paul Hall [the late SIU president] for creating Piney Point. And to the trainees, I say: Don't give up. When you go out on your ship, give it your best and never stop bettering yourself. Always be willing to come back [to the Lundeberg School]," said Aubrey Davis, a 1980 Piney Point graduate. Jorge Osorio, who sails from the port of New Orleans, noted the chance for advancement that the Lundeberg School provides to each Seafarer. "This has been a great experience," Osorio said. 'Thank you to all our instructors and to those who made this education possible. To all of you, I say: pass the word around to your fellow crewmembers. Come and upgrade and recertify if you can." Keeping Informed The Costa Rican native, who joined the union in 1960, also reflected on the abundance of knowledge he discovered as a result of the recertification course. "While at sea, we don't realize how much is going on in Washington with our union and the maritime industry. The class Recertified Bosun Aubrey Davis urges the Lundeberg School trainees to never stop bettering themselves. At the June membership meeting in Piney Point, Md., six Seafarers receive recognition for successfully completing the bosun recertification course. They are, from left, Patrick Ray, Thomas Parisi, Glenn Christianson, Aubrey Davis, Sal Ciciulla and Jorge Osorio. was most enlightening. I really enjoyed learning more about how the union works from the officials and getting more information on what is happening politically with our industry," he added. Osorio was not the only member of the group to find the meetings between the bosuns and union officials valuable and informative. Others stated they found the give~and-take an important part of their training. In order to gather as much information as possible, the six bosuns met with legislative representatives of the Maritime Trades Department (MID) and SIU at AFL-CIO headquarters in Washington, D.C. (The MTD deals with matters concerning the 41 affiliated trade unions and 28 port councils representing workers in the maritime and allied fields.) During the meeting at the MTD, the bosuns were made aware of key issues affecting the maritime industry and what efforts are being made by the MID and SIU legislative and governmental affairs departments to ensure job security for Seafarers. Also, the group was addressed by representatives of every department within the SIU and had an opportunity to have their questions answered. The bosuns discussed union organizing and contract enforcement with officials from the SIU's collective bargaining department. They were updated on the benefits of the welfare, vacation, training and pension funds. Additionally, they were instructed by communications department representatives in how to contribute photographs and information for use in the Seafarers LOG. "We learned quite a lot about how the union works," noted Sal Ciciulla, who sails from the port of San Francisco. "It was very educational learning about the Maritime Trades Department and what is going on in the maritime world. It is very important to keep informed of the problems the maritime industry faces," said the bosun, who began his career with the Sailors' Union of the Pacific before joining the SIU in 1979. "I really respect what our union officials are doing for us. After visiting Washington, D.C., I now understand just how much it takes to keep the union going," Ciciulla added. Attending the various meetings and learning more about his union was "an eye-opening experience" according to Glenn Christianson. "We had the opportunity to see our guys out here in Washington working hard for our jobs. I really enjoyed talking to my union representatives," the Seattle native said. The chance for advancement at Thomas Parisi echoed the Piney Point is a great benefit, said Recertified Bosun Jorge Osorio at sentiments of the other bosuns when he noted, "I was proud to the membership meeting. learn about all that our union officials are doing to keep us afloat. They are really doing a great job." derway and vertical replenishment procedures also were thoroughly reviewed, as were advanced firefighting and emergency first aid classes. "It was all hands on. The instructors were excellent, and it was good to review important skills such as CPR and first aid," noted Parisi, a third generation Seafarer, who joined the SIU in 1980 in the port of Gloucester, Mass. Following an extensive series of drills, exercises and classroom work in each area of study, the bosuns had to demonstrate their proficiency by passing either a written exam or a demonstration drill or both. Another important segment of the bosuns' curriculum focused on communicating effectively with both unlicensed ana ticensed shipmates. This skill is vital at sea in order to relay work orders and see they are done properly. Changed With the Times Thirty-five-year-old Patrick Ray was amazed at the progress of the school. The 1978 graduate of the trainee program has returned to the Lundeberg School six times since completing his basic training there, most recently in 1985. "I can even remember when the old hotel was still standing," Ray recalled. "The thing that I enjoy most about coming back to Piney Point is that I end up running into old friends and shipmates who I haven't seen in 10 or 15 years. It's great," said Ray, who sails from the port of Jacksonville, Fla. On top of meeting fellow Seafarers, Ray found even more value in the classroom training and union information he received. "The entire program was good. It is always a good idea to refresh skills needed while at sea," added the bosun. With his graduation certificate in hand at the podium, he added, "This piece of paper means so much to me. Thank you all." Reviewing Skills The bosuns reviewed many important skills during their fiveweek recertification training. They perfected certain deck techniques such as wiresplicing, knot-tying and navigation. The men also completed advanced shiphandling classes using the Paul Hall Center's simulator, which reproduces sailing conditions in ports around the world. The six Seafarers practiced military sealift operations such as helicopter landing and takeoff exercises, damage control proceGlenn Christianson, left, is congratulated by Vice President Contracts dures, forklift handling and Emergency first aid classes form part of the bosun recertification curHagglund crane operation. Un- riculum. Above, Sal Ciciulla (right) adjusts the sling on Tom Parisi's arm. Augie Tellez upon receipt of his graduation certificate. 7 �B JULY1995 SEAFARERS LOG Cruise Ship Members Continue Work During Constitution Layup Seafarers who sail aboard the two American Hawaii Cruises passenger ships will continue to have employment opportunities while the SS Constitution undergoes renovations, scheduled to begin this month. The union and the company recently reached an agreement to provide a crewing schedule aboard the SS Independence. This agreement will ensure that those crewmembers who were scheduled to work aboard the Constitution will now have the opportunity to sail aboard its sister ship, the Independence. The Independence will maintain its seven-day cruises around the Hawaiian Islands while the Constitution is in layup. American Hawaii Cruises expects the Independence to be sailing at or near capacity throughout the Constitution's renovations, which will provide the additional job opportunities. Meanwhile, SIU members aboard the Constitution have been preparing the cruise ship for entry into a Portland, Ore. shipyard later this month. The vessel will not follow the same renovation schedule used aboard the Independence last year. American Hawaii Cruises has announced the Constitution will stay out of service until all renovations are completed. (The Independence underwent some renovations at a Newport News, Va. shipyard during the summer and fall of 1994. It then returned to service with the company and will be ready have more work performed at a date to be announced later.) Plans call for the Constitution to sail from Honolulu to Portland where work will begin on the deck, swimming pools and crew quarters. Later, the vessel will undergo renovations and redecoration of all passenger cabins as well as public areas and stairways. Also, the vessel's electrical, air conditioning and plumbing systems will be upgraded in the shipyard. American Hawaii Cruises plans to complete all the work on the Constitution before returning it to service, now scheduled for the summer of 1996. SIU President Michael Sacco noted that renovations of the two cruise ships point to the longterm commitment being made by American Hawaii Cruises to use American workers and sail under the U.S. flag. He added the work on the ships ensures that the company will provide jobs for Seafarers into the next century. Cabin Attendant Leslie Brown's daily tasks include making the beds and cleaning passenger's rooms. OS/Maintenance Nagi Mohamed (left) grabs a bite of lunch while talking with Crew Cook Nagi Omar. Attending a shipboard meeting to learn more about the layup is Electrician Hasan Biko. Duties continue while the ship heads for a year-long layup. SA F. Zain cleans up following a crew meal. Crewmembers Practice Passenger Safety Gathering in the deck crew lounge to be updated on the ship's layup are (left to right) Bosun Gedera Razeek, AB B. Haines and AB M. Setnik. Entering the crew galley to learn the latest news about the ship's schedule are (left to right) Waiter S. Vogel, Wiper L. Duity, BR J. Maclaurin and BR H. Mohamed. Led by Bosun Terry Armas (forward with line), crewmembers from the SS Constitution practice passenger lifeboat safety drills. Seafarers aboard the SS Constitution, and its sister ship, the SS Independence, conduct regular exercises in order to be prepared for an actual emergency. In this photograph, shot by AB Nednito Sodusta, a motorized lifeboat tows a non-powered unit to safety. �JULY1995 SEAFARERS LOG AB Hudson, Four Others Receive MSCPAC Awards In recognition for going over and above the call of duty to make the USNS Catawba a great ship to sail aboard, AB Mack Hudson was named the 1994 Military Sealift Command Pacific (MSCPAC) Shipmate of the Year. TheSIUGovemmentServices Division member was nominated by the ship's master, Pat Huetter, for being a superior shipmate. The annual awards recognize outstanding work efforts and achievements by individuals sailing in the unlicensed deck, engine and steward departments as well as deck, engine and medical officers in the fleet. In addition to Hudson, others represented by the SIU to receive the 1994 Mariner Award of Excellence were Bosun James J. Gibbs, Engine Utilityman Herbert H. Haynes Jr. and Chief Cook Vevencio C. Cerillo. others is another valuable asset to a small crew." · The captain described two recent instances in which Hudson went out of his way to make his fellow crewmates feel at home aboard the Catawba. "Mr. Hudson has twice this year-once with a new able seaman and once with a new ordinary seaman-taken the time and effort to ensure the new person was made to feel welcome and comfortable aboard. "He taught them the business of safety at sea and helped them with their marlinespike seamanship. Both men became better sailors due to Mr. Hudson's efforts," the master of the Catawba concluded. Hudson was presented with a framed certificate proclaiming his outstanding seamanship by Captain Eric Shaver, MSCPAC commander, during a special awards ceremony in Oakland, Calif. Valuable Asset The other mariners also were In a letter recommending Hud- recognized at the ceremony held son for MSCPAC Shipmate of the in late April. Year, Captain Huetter wrote, . . . Outstanding Ded1cat1on "Mack M. Hudson Jr. is from the old school of seamanship. His Bosun Gibbs, who sails aboard professionalism on deck and the USNS Kilauea, was praised by ability to perform any task as- Captain Mark LaRochelle for signed is invaluable to a small dedication to his deck department deck gang. His outgoing per- crew and for the shipboard work sonality and genuine interest in they perform. The captain noted Gibbs has a tremendous ability to work hard under high stress situations, whether at sea or in the shipyard. "Mr. Gibbs' ability to orchestrate complex operations and coordinate his workforce makes the difference between meeting and exceeding mission commitmen ts or falling behind schedule," noted the captain. According to LaRochelle, Gibbs' hard work, accompanied by his professionalism, makes him not only an excellent shipmate to the entire Kilauea crew, but also an asset to the MSCPAC fleet. "When others elect not to work overtime during unpleasant working conditions or inclement weather, Mr. Gibbs has been conspicuous in his extensive work output. His enthusiasm is never diminished by external factors over which he has no control or influence. When the going gets tough, Mr. Gibbs just gets tougher and keep·s charging," LaRochelle wrote. LaRochelle also commended the Seafarer for his vast knowledge of underway replenishment and cargo operations aboard the MSCPAC vessel. Unlicensed engine department winner Haynes was presented the award for his superior work and Capt. Eric Shaver (left), MSCPAC commander, presents AB Mack Hudson with the 1994 MSCPAC Shipmate of the Year award during an April ceremony in Oakland, Calif. attitude while sailing aboard the USNS Walter S. Diehl in 1994. According to the ship's chief engineer, Doug Robb, Haynes' enthusiasm for his job-together with his efficiency-makes him a team player and a benefit to the entire MSCPAC fleet. T~e chief engineer commended Haynes' superior knowledge and positive attitude while performing his work aboard the Diehl. Boosting Moral In gaining recognition for his work on the USNS Mars, Chief Cook Cerillo was commended for boosting the morale of his crew- members by preparing top-notch meals. "He• s a dedicated and hard working individual who takes extreme pride in producing the best meals possible for the crew," wrote Supply Officer Jack Dempsey in his nomination of Cerillo. "He's very conscientious and always puts in the extra effort in every aspect of his job." In his nomination letter, Dempsey compared his chief cook's holiday feasts to those of a five-star restaurant. The supply officer also noted that Cerillo always maintains a spotless galley and constantly regulates shipboard sanitation and safety procedures. Seafarers Keep Lummus Ready For Immediate Military Call-Up Maintaining the 1st Lt. Jack Lummus for possible military action at any time is one of the jobs for the ship's SIU crew. Operated by Amsea, the Military Sealift Command (MSC) prepositioning vessel is fully loaded with enough ammunition and stores to sustain a U.S. Marine Corps brigade for a month in the event American military forces are called into action. The Lummus shuttles regularly between the western Pacific Ocean islands of Guam and Saipan, on which the U.S. maintains military bases. When SIU Assistant Vice President Bob Hall recently visited the ship in Guam (where he took the photos accompanying this article), he found a great deal of activity aboard the Lummus as crewmembers worked to keep the vessel up to the high standards set by MSC. Maintaining the prepositioning ship in a state of military preparedness means keeping the vessel in good physical condition. It also means the crewmembers must be ready. Helicopter landings, lifeboat drills, fire and rescue drills and loading/unloading exercises at sea are designed to ensure that each individual will know what to do in the event of a U.S. military activation and deployment. The ship was named in memory of Marine 1st Lt. Jack Lummus, After a morning spent chipping and painting, ABs who knocked out three enemy installations before being fatally SA Carmelita Henry is ready to tackle a galley as- Paul Griffin and Don Deflorio take a coffee break in wounded during the World War II battle for Iwo Jima. signment aboard the military prepositoning ship. the crew's mess hall. Lummus galley gang members prepare a special cake to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the battle of two Jima, where the ship's namesake fought and was killed. They are (from left) SA Cynthia Adamson, SA Kendrick Gatton, SA Trent Williams, Cook/Baker Karl Meyer, Steward/Baker Tony Ferrara, Chief Cook Ron Davis and SA Mike Thompson. Discussing union matters with SIU AB Richard Hilbert carves small Vice President Bob Hall aboard the figurines out of soap during his spare Lummus is AB Jon Williams. time aboard the prepositioning vessel. 9 �10 JULY1995 SEAFARERS LOG One of the deckhands on the American Queen is Scott Manley. Making sure the guests' glasses are kept full is Beverly White. ·~ s ea fa re rs· c r ew F LONG ROBIN STREET WHARF IN New Orleans, guests smiled and gestured toward the Seafarers-crewed American Queen as they remarked about her sparkling exterior - from the mahogany grand staircase near the bow, to the fluted stacks extending above the sixth deck, to the bright red 60-ton paddle - dining room, the Grand Saloon theater patterned afcer an 1885 river-town opera house, and all the other amenities that evoke a sense of travelling back in time. Even the weather seemed to favor the American Queen. On June 1, a day before her christening, it rained so hard that the local newspaper published a page-1 article about the storm. But on June 2, nary a cloud could be seen as a giant ceremonial bottle of Tabasco Pepper Sauce (made in Louisiana) crashed across the sun-drenched bow of the largest steamboat ever built. "I'm proud to be here," said Robbi Kinney, a :-: member of the steward department who helped · 1 train the dining room staff. "We have a wonderful crew and a beautiful boat." The American Queen, which began passenger service late last month, is the largest overnight passenger vessel built in a U.S. shipyard in the last 40 years. Blending modern convenience$ with the look and feel of a 19th-century paddlewheeler, the boat cost approximately $70 million to construct and furnish. SIU members busily helped prepare the 4 18. foot craft following her delivery to The Delta Queen Steamboat Co. in April from McDermott Shipyard in Amelia, La. After the christening, they conveyed a crew-wide excitement about R. Kinney sharing in the historic breakout of the Victorianstyle boat. "Morale is excellent, everyone works well together and the boat is gorgeous, inside and out," said Duncan Armentor, a 22-yearold deckhand and local resident. "I always wanted to work on a boat that cruises the Mississippi River." Oiler Dave Leddy noted the among ff "Everybody wor Here in the engi kinds of differen oiling, general cl While most of aboard either de .-..-.:::>w- (many have wor D. Armentor American Que Queen and the Mississippi Yolanda Robertson, 26, thi beautiful, exactly what I expe doing housekee first trip. So far it' The newness an attraction fo including Head of the main rea perience a new worked aboard D.Leddy been fun, a learn Jeffrey Krida, president of Steamboat Co., credited the professionalism of the crew as the company's success, a decision to add the America fleet. But the new boat's deco historically accurate, fine! modernly comfortable - und attraction. The American Queen's �SEAFARERS LOG JULY1995 , -.\iJ1 ~ Hundreds of people were on hand to celebrate the christening of the American Queen on June 2 in New Orleans. y Nearing comp Ieti on of another shift is Deckhand Ed Hopcraft. bulous New Steamboat s hard and works together. 1990's technology perhaps is best illustrated by its propulsion eroom, we've been doing all equipment. The vessel is outfitted with an authentic 1,400work: refitting valves, piping, horsepower steam engine (taken from a dormant dredge) anup," said Leddy, 22. that powers a pair of pistons to drive the paddle wheel. Suphe crewmembers have sailed plementing that power are two modern diesel-electric sysp sea ships, tugs or riverboats terns (z-drives) and twin bow thrusters that bring the total ed aboard one or both of the horsepower to 3,500. n's sister ships, the Delta The boat also is equipped with other items not found on Queen), for Cabin Attendant steamboats during the 1800s: surface-search radar, is her first vessel. "The boat is elevators, air conditioning, stateroom telephones, electronic ted," she said. "We've been fire-detection equipment, a computer that monitors 275 ing and getting ready for the points in the steam propulsion system, an electro-hydraulic been great." mechanism that can lower the pilothouse (particularly useful fthe American Queen also is when the boat passes under bridges) and more. experienced crewmembers, The design team studied historic photos and archival eckhand Ed Hopcraft. "One materials relating to Mississippi River steamboats in order to ens I signed on was to ex- develop old-style features on the American Queen, including: oat," said Hopcraft, who has the Delta Queen. "This has ·ng experience." he Delta Queen riendliness and a major factor in well as in its Queen to the ative scheme detailed and Y. Robertson ubtedly also is an enormous ixture of historic appeal and • the Grand Saloon showroom and lecture hall, marked by a jutting stage, framed by a decorated archway and flanked on a mezzanine level by private box seats for viewing live entertainment • a chart room decorated with authentic old-fashioned navigational instruments • a dining room that seats 220 guests and has windows providing a waterline view of the river • a lavishly decorated "ladies parlor" and "gentlemen's card room" based on those of 19th-century steamboats. ~ :.? - Among the other features are exterior lounges and recreation areas, a swimming pool and a gift shop. In addition, the vessel includes double-occupancy crew's cabins, each with a private bathroom and closets (similar to what is on board the Mississippi Queen). All in all, as one observer said at the christening, the American Queen looks like a sterling addition - one that may exceed even the loftiest expectations. 11 �- 12 SEAFARERS LOG J oining the growing number of SIU -pensioners this month are 19 Seafarers who have retired after many years of sailing the world's waterways. Thirteen of those signing off their ships for the last time sailed in the deep sea division, five navigated the inland waterways and one worked on Great Lakes vessels. Ten of the retiring SIU members served in the U.S. military - six in the Navy, three in the Army and one in the Coast Guard. Among this month's retirees, William E. Babbitt and William T. Baker completed the bosun recertification course at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md., and Rudy P. DeBoissiere graduated from the steward recertification course. On this page, the Seafarers LOG presents brief biographical accounts of the retiring pensioners. JULY1995 To Our New Pensioners • • . Thanks for a Job Well Done Each month in the Seafarers LOG, the names of SIU members who recently have become pensioners appear with a brief biographical sketch. These men and women have served the ·maritime industry well, and the SIU and all their union brothers and sisters wish them happiness and health in the days ahead. of the engine department. He has retired to his native Honduras. BILLIE R. HUGHES, 66,joined the SIU in 1956 in the port of New York. Anative of North Carolina, he sailed as a member of the engine department. From 1953 to 1955 he served in the U.S. Army. Brother Hughes continues to live in North Carolina. From 1950 to 1952 he served in the U.S. Army. A native of Florida, Brother Stewart continues to live there. ROGER W.SULLIVAN,65, joined the SIU in 1951 in the port of Baltimore. The GeorgianaJAMESP. ..--------. tive sailed in both the steward and deck departments. From McGUIRE, DEEP SEA 1946 to 1948 he served in the 65, started U.S. Navy. Brother Sullivan his career WILLIAM last shipped in June 1994 with the E. BABaboard the Bayamon. He curunion in BITT, 66, rently resides in Maryland. 1979 in the joined the port of NorSeafarers in folk, Va. ROBERT 1958 in the H. TWITE, He sailed as a member of the port of 62,began deck department. From 1947 Philadelto 1969 he served in the U.S. his career phia. The with the Navy. Born in New York, deck department member comunion in Brother McGuire now resides pleted the bosun recertification 1956 in the in Virginia. course in 1979 at the Lunport of Aldeberg School in Piney Point, pena, Mich. Md. From 1945 to 1952 he SALEHN. served in the U.S. Navy. Born MUTHANA, He began sailing in the deck department aboard Great Lakes in Indiana, Brother Babbitt now 65,began vessels and later transferred his resides in Pennsylvania. his sailing membership to the deep sea career with division. Brother Twite has the retired to his native Michigan. Seafarers in WILLIAM 1970 in the T.BAKER, r--~~~;:----i WILLIAM ======= port of 69,joined F. Detroit. Brother Muthana the SIU in WIEMERS, started working in the Great 1943 in the 65,joined Lakes division and later transport of Galthe ferred to deep sea vessels. He veston, Seafarers in sailed in both the deck and Texas. 1955 in the steward departments. Born in Brother port of SeatBaker sailed in the deck depart- Yemen, Brother Muthana tle. The makes his home in Michigan. ment and upgraded his skills at California native sailed as a the Lundeberg School where he member of the deck departgraduated from the bosun recer- TOMR. ment. Brother Wiemers has tification course in 1975. Born SAENZ,57, retired to Nevada. in Louisiana, Brother Baker joined the makes his home in Texas. SIU in 1963 INLAND in the port of Houston. r----==~---, RUDY P. WILBURN. AUSTIN, 65, The Texas DeBOISbegan sailing with the SIU in native SIERE, 66, 1970 from the port of Norfolk, shipped in started his Va. The deck department memboth the steward and engine career with ber started out as a tankerman departments. He signed off his the union in and worked his way up to barge Overseas Vivian, last vessel, the 1957 in the in February 1995. Brother Saenz captain. Boatman Austin parport of Balticipated in several membership continues to live in Texas. timore, sailconferences held at the Luning in the steward department. deberg School. Born in VirHe successfully completed the LLOYDE. ginia, he served 20 years in the steward recertification course SELIX, 64, U.S. Coast Guard, from 1948 to in 1980 at the Lundeberg began sail1968. Boatman Austin currentSchool. From 1948 to 1955 he ing with the ly resides in North Carolina. served in the U.S . Army. Born union in in New York, Brother De1952 from Boissiere has retired to Virginia. the port of San Francis- AUGUSTUST• .__....____,,'---'.., co. He BLAKE, CARLOS sailed in the deck department, 63, started J.GUERretiring as a bosun. A native of sailing with RER0,65, California, Brother Selix conthe union in began his tinues to live in his home state. 1960 from sailing the port of career with Norfolk, Va. GRADY C. STEW ART, 66, the As a licensed operator, Boatstarted his career with the Seafarers in man Blake began working in Seafarers in 1962 in the port of 1966 in the Mobile, Ala., sailing as a mem- the deck department as a mate port of New Orleans. Brother and worked his way up to port ber of the deck department. Guerrero shipped as a member captain. After upgrading his skills at the Lundeberg School, he passed the U.S. Coast Guard exam to gain his masters licence for tugs and towboats. From 1949 to 1953 he served in the U.S. Navy. Born and raised in North Carolina, he continues to make his home there. GENEVA R.MATTHEWS, 63,began sailing with the Seafarers in 1979 from '---'--===-___J the port of New Orleans. She shipped in the steward department and sailed primarily on Delta Queen Steamship vessels. Born in Georgia, Matthews now makes her home in Mississippi. CHARLES M.UNKRICH,62, began his sailing career with the union in 1971 in the port of New Orleans. Licensed as a tugboat and barge pilot, he sailed primarily for Dixie Carriers as a captain. Boatman Unkrich served in the U.S. Navy from 1949 to 1953. Born in Arkansas, Boatman Unkrich has retired to Louisiana. CURTIS F. WOODS, 59, joined the Seafarers in 1970 in the port of Mobile, Ala.He worked as a crane operator for Radcliff Materials, Inc., later known as Dravo. A native of Mississippi, Boatman Woods currently lives in Louisiana. GREAT LAKES RICHARD J.GIMPEL, 66, started with the SIU in 1963 in the port of Detroit. The ==__J deck department member participated in a membership conference at the Lundeberg School in 1984. Brother Gimpel served as a trustee to the Great Lakes Tug & Dredge Pension Plan from. 1987 to December 1994. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1946 to 1947. A native of Minnesota, Brother Gimpel has retired to Florida. LOG-A-RHYTHM Tar Impression by Cynthia Adamson Written upon the tired and Lined face of an old salt Speaks the aye of affirmation That his home is a sea. His wom and calloused hands Deftly deny his soft heart, The longing of which Is a love long past In some faraway port Under the dim light ofyouth. Now his passion is a skill Honed on the deck of a ship; An art with small recognition But a Da Vinci tied in each knot. Freedom is the poignant rush Of salt spray on silver hair, The very smell, taste and fear Of unpredictable swells. Here! Here! My agingfriend To following your dreams With honor and accolades For w1y smiles and winks. Your audience is eamed For stories and yarns. You 've captured our wanderlust In the image of your eyes. SA Cynthia Adamson, a graduate of the entry program at Piney Point last year, wrote this poem as the 1st Lt. Jack Lummus sailed through the San Bernadine Straits en route to Manila. �SEAFARERS LOG JULY1995 Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Cl~ C TOTAL SIDPPED All Groups Class A Class B Cla~ C Trip Reliefs **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Cl~ B Class C MAY 16-JUNE 15, 1995 Port New York 28 Philadelphia 2 Baltimore 7 13 Norfolk Mobile 8 New Orleans 20 Jacksonville 37 San Francisco 22 16 Wilmington 27 Seattle Puerto Rico 9 Honolulu 4 24 Houston St. Louis 2 Piney Point 3 Algonac 0 222 Totals Port New York 20 Philadelphia 3 Baltimore 1 Norfolk 8 Mobile 10 New Orleans 12 Jacksonville 10 San Francisco 15 Wilmington 2 16 Seattle Puerto Rico 6 Honolulu 3 14 Houston St. Louis 1 Piney Point 3 0 Algonac Totals 124 Port New York 17 Philadelphia 0 Baltimore 2 Norfolk 6 Mobile 7 New Orleans 10 Jacksonville 12 San Francisco 33 Wilmington 7 24 Seattle Puerto Rico 8 Honolulu 7 15 Houston 0 St. Louis 1 Piney Point Algonac 0 149 Totals 4 3 21 1 7 12 11 28 22 24 21 26 0 11 19 2 3 0 208 1 1 51 16 3 7 0 3 9 9 20 1 3 0 2 3 1 17 12 8 6 3 11 13 2 5 0 141 0 5 2 3 4 1 5 4 3 9 6 0 3 0 2 6 3 0 0 0 27 0 0 1 I 8 7 9 1 2 I 0 9 3 8 3 1 1 0 5 0 7 2 7 2 4 6 0 3 0 73 0 0 0 18 DECK DEPARTMENT 21 27 3 4 2 1 0 3 5 2 5 10 1 8 8 21 15 0 1 9 9 0 18 17 14 3 9 1 14 28 0 1 6 7 4 10 2 14 18 1 0 0 2 0 1 2 0 0 22 168 137 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 9 9 1 1 2 0 3 3 0 3 5 0 4 6 0 10 9 5 6 3 15 2 0 3 0 1 0 66 Piney Point Monday: August 7; Tuesday, September 5* *changed try IAbor Day holiday 23 1 0 4 1 10 8 9 12 10 3 2 9 56 6 7 27 13 42 56 48 29 0 93 50 16 8 45 3 3 0 409 5 1 38 4 2 1 1 5 2 0 1 7 11 0 0 6 8 4 8 1 6 6 2 1 0 2 6 1 0 3 2 0 0 80 0 11 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 16 0 3 1 0 1 1 2 0 4 3 8 3 0 3 7 7 0 I 3 11 6 0 19 2 3 0 2 12 0 4 5 0 2 2 5 0 4 5 0 0 0 1 2 0 0 0 0 49 9 90 August &September1995 , Membership Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, Inland Waters 5 2 3 5 0 0 0 13 19 23 21 25 10 21 7 6 25 1 3 47 0 218 5 0 36 2 0 3 5 1 11 10 12 18 20 66 25 30 8 12 24 1 8 0 275 3 12 4 4 4 2 5 0 0 0 56 44 2 12 21 25 49 36 48 28 36 5 24 45 6 2 2 10 1 9 2 0 1 9 2 388 35 10 9 18 13 34 29 24 16 19 6 16 25 2 9 1 266 18 1 3 13 9 21 10 14 7 12 2 12 10 0 8 0 140 ENTRY DEPARTMENT Port 19 65 16 0 0 2 34 7 New York 13 2 2 0 1 1 0 0 0 1 Philadelphia 12 1 0 1 1 3 6 3 Baltimore 1 25 4 0 7 6 1 10 2 10 Norfolk 32 1 0 0 1 8 11 Mobile 1 0 44 11 0 12 0 2 4 25 8 New Orleans 28 2 1 0 2 5 9 17 Jacksonville 1 36 21 0 0 6 6 8 15 San Francisco 11 33 9 2 0 10 10 3 16 Wilmington 5 30 14 0 1 7 10 13 7 8 Seattle 11 7 0 0 1 4 Puerto Rico 5 3 5 13 70 0 8 13 1 44 31 4 Honolulu 32 2 0 1 5 1 4 Houston 1 13 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 St. Louis 0 0 1 36 14 0 1 0 0 16 Piney Point 0 2 0 0 1 1 0 1 Algonac 3 0 458 107 22 0 114 32 116 213 Totals 57 Totals All 1 2009 1 2252 196 325 411 64 212 635 De~artments 552 * ''Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. **"Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. 8 2 9 6 12 10 18 1 97 5 0 1 4 1 4 6 4 8 2 3 5 4 0 2 0 49 0 1 1 3 3 New York Tuesday: August 8, September 5 Philadelphia Wednesday: August 9, September 6 Baltimore Thursday: August 10, September 7 Norfolk Thursday: August 10, September 7 Jacksonville Thursday: August 10, September 7 Algonac Friday: August 11, September 8 Houston Monday: August 14, September 11 New Orleans Tuesday: August 15, September 12 Mobile Wednesday: August 16, September 13 San Francisco Thursday: August 17, September 14 Wilmington Tuesday: August 22*; Monday, September 18 *changed try Paul Hall birthday holiday Seattle Friday: August 25, September 22 San Juan Thursday: August 10, September 7 St. Louis Friday: August 18, September 15 Honolulu Friday: August 18, September 15 Duluth Wednesday: August 16, September 13 Jersey City Wednesday: August 23, September 20 New Bedford Tuesday: August 22, September 19 Each port's meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals BRIAN HULSTROM Happy Birthday! Love, Mom, Dad & Family 2 5 WILLIAM R. KLEIMOLA 4 4 3 1 8 1 0 1 0 37 Please contact V. Virkki at P.O. Box A, Pt. Bolivar, TX 77650. 27 2 6 30 0 23 22 17 20 19 16 148 7 0 2 0 339 522 JOHN "VIC" VICTOR REWERTS Anyone knowing the whereabouts of John "Vic" Victor Rewerts is asked to please contact his sister, Karen Rewerts Skeen, at P.O.- Box 1936, Welcome, NC 27374. CLINTON JUNIOR RESH Your brother has passed away. Please contact your sister, Mary Dulik, at 4638 West 156th Street, Cleveland, OH 44135; telephone (216) 265-0931. EUGENE "GENE" SHIELDS Anyone knowing the whereabouts of Eugene "Gene" Shields is asked to please contact his sister, Lisa Liquori-Tilotta, at P.O. Box 132, Bellmawr, NJ 08099-0132. Notice NEW BEDFORD FISHERMEN To all present participants with account balances, all former participants, all beneficiaries receiving benefits and all participants of the New Bedford Fishermen's Money Purchase Pension Plan: An application is being made to the Internal Revenue Service for a determination on termination of the New Bedford Fishermen's Money Purchase Pension Plan. If you have not received a notice from the above plan in 1995, please contact the fund office at 56 N. Water Street, New Bedford, MA 02740; or telephone (508) 996-5618 immediately to claim benefits to which you may be entitled. 13 �i-------------------------------- ---- ---14 SEAFARERS LOB Seafarers International ·· Union Directory JULY1995 Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes MAY 16- JUNE 15, 1995 CL-Company/Lakes L-Lakes NP-Non Priority Michael Sacco President John Fay Secretary-Treasurer *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP Joseph Sacco Executive Vice President Augustin Tellez Vice President Contracts George McCartney Vice President West Coast Roy A. "Buck" Mercer Vice President Government Services Jack Caffey Vice President Atlantic Coast Byron Kelley Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP DECK DEPARTMENT 27 0 38 9 0 16 2 0 5 1 0 37 33 Totals All Departments SS 0 22 0 43 3 0 96 * "Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. **"Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. 4S 0 25 1 0 6 1 0 3 1 0 21 19 0 0 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 9 1 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 7 2 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 DeanCorgey Vice President Gulf Coast HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr. Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters MAY 16 - JUNE 15, 1995 BALTIMORE 1216 E. Baltimore St Baltimore, MD 21202 (410) 327-4900 DULUTH 705 Medical Arts Building Duluth, MN 55802 (218) 722-4110 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St. Houston, TX 77001. (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St. Jacksonville, FL n206 (904) 353--0987 JERSEY CITY 99 Montgomery St. Jersey City, NJ 07302 (201)435-9424 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy. Mobile, AL 36605 (334) 478-0916 NEW BEDFORD 48 Union St. New Bedford, MA 02740 (508) 997-5404 NEW ORLEANS 630 Jackson Ave. New Orleans, LA 70130 (504) 529-7546 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St. Norfolk. VA 23510 (804) 622-1892 PIDLADELPHIA 2604S.4St. Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O.Box75 Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 2 West Dixie Highway Dania, FL 33004 (305) 921-5661 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St. San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Government Services Division (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 1611.z Santurce, PR 00907 (809) 721-4033 SEA'ITLE 2505 First Ave. Seattle, WA 98121 (206) 441-1960 ST.LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave. St. Louis, MO 63116 (314)752-6500 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave. Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals 2 5 41 3 Sl 2 0 11 0 13 0 6 0 2 8 0 4 0 7 11 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A ClassB Class C DECK DEPARTMENT 4 0 0 2 0 1 18 0 0 40 5 5 62 7 6 ENGINE DEPARTMENT ·o 0 0 0 6 0 9 0 0 1 0 0 10 0 0 STEWARD DEPARTMENT **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 0 9 2 6 0 5 11 0 30 SS 13 41 15 4 27 2 0 14 0 16 3 3 O* 0 7 0 0 1 0 1 12 1 13 2 13 Totals All Departments lS 76 68 8 8 7 16 84 * "Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. ** "Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. S6 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 3 3 0 3 4 0 0 0 'o 1 1 0 1 h' \ 0 Enjoy a Summer Vacation at Piney Point The summer season officially has begun-and with it come thoughts of doing something special for each member of the family while still managing to keep out of the hot, summer sun and not going broke in the process. For Seafarers and their families, the answer lies in the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Located in St. Mary's County, which is surrounded by 400 miles of shoreline, the union's extensive training center makes some of its rooms available to SIU members and their families. With affordable rates and exciting activities, the facility at the Paul Hall Center's Lundeberg School is the perfect location from which to base a summer vacation. Each family member can find something to his or her liking on the grounds of the center-whether it is swimming, reading, exercising, eating, fishing, relaxing, sailing- you name it! For those wishing to venture outside the gates of the facility, there is much to see and do. In historic St. Mary's City, families can travel back in time to visit the place where vessels from England first landed in 1634. Located at Point Lookout State Park are the remains of Fort Lincoln, a prisoner of war camp for Confederate soliders during the Civil War. And for those wishing to venture even further outside the gates of the facility, Washington, D.C., Baltimore and Alexandria, Va. are short distances away by car, offering many opportunities to visit historical landmarks and other points of interest. Many of the attractions are free-the museums of the Smithsonian Institution, the U.S. Capitol, Arlington Cemetery, to name a few. A vacation stay at the Lundeberg School is limited to two weeks per family. The daily cost for each member is $40.40. An additional fee of $9.95 per day is charged for the Seafarer's spouse and for each child (there is no charge for children 11 years of age or younger). This price includes comfortable accommodations, all meals and use of the school's educational and recreational facilities. This family vacation benefit is unique to members of the SIU. Make sure you take advantage of it this summer. r--------------------------------------, SEAFARERS TRAINING & RECREATION CENTER Vacation Reservation Information Name: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Social Security number: ________ Book number: _ _ __ Address: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Telephone number: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Number in party I ages of children, if applicable: _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Date of arrival: 1st choice 2nd choice _ _3rd choice (Stay is limited to two weeks) Send this completed application to the Seafarers Training & Recreation Center, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674. ------------------------------------ _J 7/95 �SEAFARERS LOG JULY1995 Digest of Ships Meetings ing tanker operations course being offered at Paul Hall Center. Steward department commended for job well done. Crew requested new toaster for mess hall and coffee machine for officer's mess hall and asked that lightweight coveralls be issued. Crew announced formation of ITB "Baltimore Beacons" basketball team. Next port: New York. The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships minutes first are reviewed by the union's contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the LNG CAPRICORN (ETC), May union upon receipt of the ships minutes. The minutes are then 14--Chairman Billie Darley, forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. Secretary J.L. Gibbons, EducationOVERSEAS OHIO (Maritime Overseas), April 30--Chairman Rudolph Hernandez, Secretary Earl Gray Sr., Educational Director Scott Wilkinson, Deck Delegate Rene Govico, Engine Delegate Gregory Johns, Steward Delegate Eugenio Diego. Chairman led discussion about working conditions aboard vessel. Bosun thanked crew for cooperation on shipboard matters and urged members to keep up good work. Secretary reminded crewmembers to check z-card renewal dates. He informed crewmembers of availability of applications for tanker operations course at Piney Point and reminded crew that all members who sail on tankers must take safety class to continue sailing on tankers. Educational director urged members to maintain excellence of SIU by upgrading skills at Lundeberg School. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked steward department for superb job. Special vote of thanks extended by crew to GSA Dominico Dacua, Chief Cook Diego and Steward/ Baker Gray. Next port: Honolulu. SEA-LAND SPIRIT (Sea-Land Service), April 30--Chairman George Khan, Secretary Steve Apodaca, Educational Director Charles Henley, Deck Delegate James Rader, Engine Delegate Mark Lawrence, Steward Delegate Keynon Bragg. Secretary encouraged members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. Educational director stressed importance of SPAD donations. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked galley gang for job well done. Next port: Honolulu. SEA-LAND VALUE (Sea-Land Service), April 9-Chairman John Bertolind, Secretary Abdul Hassan, Educational Director Henry Paquin. Chairman discussed reflagging of ship and noted union representative will meet ship at payoff. No beefs or disputed OT reported. SEA-LAND VOYAGER(SeaLand Service), April 30--Chairman Edmund Brand, Secretary Emanuel Douroudous, Educational Director Joe Jenkins, Deck Delegate Robert Stenehjem, Engine Delegate T.L. Cowan, Steward Delegate Strode Call. Disputed OT reported by deck delegate. No beefs or disputed OT reported by the engine or steward delegates. Chairman announced scheduled U.S. Coast Guard inspection and advised all crewmembers to be aboard vessel. He also reminded crew to attend Lundeberg School and get tanker operations course endorsement. Crew asked contracts department to look into immediate payoffs upon arrival in Tacoma, Wash. Crew asked Sea-Land to return van service to and from ship while vessel is docked. Next port: Tacoma. STONEWALL JACKSON (Waterman Steamship), April 23Chairman Carl Lineberry, Secretary Ernest Hoitt, Deck Delegate William Fieding, Engine Delegate Cres Suazo, Steward Delegate John Bennett. Chairman announced barges to be picked up while sailing through Suez Canal. Ship will then call on ports of Newport News, Va. and New Orleans. Secretary reported union forms available for crewmembers. He advised members to upgrade at Piney Point and keep center in mind as location for family vacations. Crew voted to use crew lounge as only smoking area aboard ship. Treasurer reported $135 in movie fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. ULTRASEA (Sealift, Inc.), April 30--Chairman Marvin Zimbro, Educational Director J.R. Vitch, Deck Delegate Mark Billot, Engine Delegate Edward Shamburger, Steward Delegate Carlos Arauz. Chairman reminded members to attend new tanker operations course at Paul Hall Center. He stated ship scheduled to be in Russia at beginning of May. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang. CHARLES L. BROWN (Transoceanic Cable Ship Co.), May 25Chairman Francisco Sousa, Secretary Robert Seaman, Educational Joseph Stores. Chairman announced payoff and advised ship will be involved in cable repair exercise first week of June. Treasurer discussed using ship's fund for purchase of new darts and ping pong balls. Deck delegate discussed smoking policy with crew. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next port: St. Thomas, U.S.V.I. ITB BALTIMORE (Sheridan Transportation), May 29-Chairman Sonny Pinkham, Secretary Juan Gonzalez, Deck Delegate Stephen Herring, Steward Delegate Gerard Hyman. Educational director reminded members to upgrade at Lundeberg School. Deck delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegates. Crew thanked headquarters for timely arrival of HIGHLIGHTS Charles L Brown-Chairman reports cable repair exercises to begin.first week in June. LNG Capricorn-Educational director stresses importance of writing to congressmen to urge support for U.S.-flag shipping. Overseas Ohio-Secretary reminds crewmembers to be sure their z-cards are up-todate. /TB BalUmore-Crew announces formation of its basketball team, the Baltimore Beacons. Sea-Land Producer-Chairman thanked galley gang for delicious meals. sunset barbecues and "make-your-ownpizza" nights. Seafarers LOGs and prompt response to questions raised in ship's minutes. Crew asked contracts department to look into increasing optical benefits. Crew requested union halls with available space provide exercise equipment and locker room facilities to improve cardiovascular fitness, health and general well-being of members. Discussion held regard- al Director Thomas Harris, Deck Delegate Patrick McCarthy, Engine Delegate Aaron Thaxton. Bosun and crew discussed reflagging of Sea-Land ships. He noted SIU officials working day and night to preserve jobs of membership. Chairman extended special vote of thanks to SIU port officials. Chairman thanked crew for good tour. Secretary reminded members to leave quarters clean for next person signing on. Educational director stressed importance of crewmembers writing members of Congress to urge support for U.S.flag shipping. He also encouraged membership to keep informed of union political activities through Seafarers LOG. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Captain addressed crew concerns of continued operation of LNG tankers. Next port: Bontang, Indonesia. OVERSEAS OHIO(Maritime Overseas), May 26-Chairman Rudolph Hernandez, Secretary Earl Gray Sr., Educational Director Michael Ribeiro, Deck Delegate Rene Govico, Engine Delegate Karl Benes, Steward Delegate Eugenio Diego. Chairman announced ship's itinerary for month of June and discussed safety procedures while at sea. He thanked crew for good work and wished those signing off a good vacation. Bosun asked for continued cooperation in separating plastic items from regular trash. Secretary reminded crew to upgrade at Piney Point as soon and as often as possible. He advised them of new SAB ruling concerning English proficiency exam in reading and writing before registering to ship. Deck and steward delegates reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine delegate. Chairman urged members to be sure to read SIU President Michael Sacco's report in Seafarers LOG. Crewmembers extended special vote of thanks to Engine Delegate Benes. Crew also thanked Steward/Baker Gray, Chief Cook Diego, GSU Dominico Dacua and DEU Ali Kasem for jobs very well done. Crew was advised to separate and sort recyclable materials on ship. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. SEA-LAND DEFENDER (SeaLand Service), May 28-Chairman William Dean, Secretary John Hanrahan, Educational Director Alfred McQuade, Deck Delegate Acylee "Joe" Brooks, Engine Delegate Horst Baetjer, Steward Delegate Carlton Griffin. Chairman reported letter of response received from SIU contracts department concerning crewing. Bosun reminded crewmembers of proper procedures to follow when attempting to resolve beefs. Secretary informed crew of available union forms. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested patrolman board ship to address questions of members concerning vacation time following long voyage. Crew thanked steward department for quality service and professionalism. SEA-LAND ENTERPRISE (SeaLand Service), May 7-Chairman El ex Cary, Secretary Michael Meany, Educational Director Ray Chapman, Engine Delegate Erich Frederickson, Steward Delegate Ron Dewitt. Chairman noted smooth voyage, good gang and good feeder. Secretary encourged members to donate to SPAD. Educational director advised members to upgrade skills at Lundeberg School. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman read telex from SIU President Michael Sacco concerning reflagging of Sea-Land ships. Crew requested second washing machine in crew laundry for grimy clothes. SEA-LAND NAVIGATOR (SeaLand Service), May 21-Chairman Werner Becher, Secretary Rickie Juzang, Educational Director Mike Wells, Deck Delegate Ken Hagar, Engine Delegate Ken Harder, Steward Delegate Daniel Maxie Sr. Chairman thanked crewmembers for keeping lounge clean. He announced arrival and payoff date for Tacoma, Wash. and advised crew to keep lounge locked while in port. He reminded members additional medical and vacation forms are available. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested second washer and dryer for laundry room. Galley gang com- 15 SEA-LAND RELIANCE (SeaLand Service), May 17-Chairman Charles Herrera, Secretary Joe Johnson, Educational Director Gene Speckman, Deck Delegate George Vukmir, Engine Delegate Daniel Rhodes, Steward Delegate S. Hariri. Chairman stated everything running smoothly. Treasurer announced $320 in ship's fund. Steward delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck or engine delegates. Crew thanked steward department for good salad bar and well prepared meals. Next port: Oakland, Calif. SEA-LAND SP/RIT(Sea-Land Service), May 28-Chairman Howard Gibbs, Secretary Steve Apodaca, Educational Director Charles Henley, Deck Delegate Sal Qualiatu, Engine Delegate Mark Lawrence, Steward Delegate Keyon Bragg. Secretary urged members to attend upgrading courses at Paul Hall Center. Educa- To Those Who Went Before A wreath-laying ceremony aboard the Cape Race, an OMl-operated Ready Reserve Force vessel, paid tribute on Maritime Memorial Day in May to all merchant mariners who lost their lives in the line of duty during wars and conflicts. Standing from the left are crewmembers QMEDs Kevin Quinlan, Chris Carneal and Brian Allred. Kneeling is AB Horace Cooper. mended for well prepared meals. Next port: Oakland, Calif. SEA-LAND PATRIOT (SeaLand Service), May 13-Chairman Robert Garcia, Secretary Curtis Philips Jr., Deck Delegate James Foley, Engine Delegate R.J. Mullen, Steward Delegate Jim Saxton. Chairman noted repairs needed to crew recreation room and reupholstery of chairs. He discussed flag-out of Sea-Land Freedom and commented on what a sad experience the event is for all U.S. seamen. He urged American workers to get involved to save their jobs. Educational director advised all members that key to job opportunity and job security is upgrading skills at Lundeberg School. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward thanked crew for cooperation in keeping ship clean. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang. SEA-LAND PRODUCER (SeaLand Service), May 14--Chairman Jack Edwards, Secretary David Cunningham, Educational Director James Smitko, Deck Delegate John Emrich, Steward Delegate Paula Kaleikini. Chairman announced estimated arrival dates posted for Oakland and Long Beach, Calif. Bosun discussed new classes available to upgraders at Piney Point. Treasurer reported $1,284 in ship's fund to use for movies and special food for scheduled barbecue. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman thanked GSU M. Omar for keeping mess halls clean and well stocked. He also thanked Steward Cunningham and Chief Cook Kaleikini for delicious meals, homemade desserts, breads, birthday cakes, sunset barbecues and "make-your-ownpizza" nights. Bosun stated crew enjoyed food as much as galley gang enjoyed cooking. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. tional director stressed importance of donating to SPAD. Treasurer stated eight new videotapes purchased last trip. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew gave special thanks to galley gang for great barbecue and job well done. Next port: Honolulu. SEA-LAND TACOMA (SeaLand Service), May 10--Chairman Joseph Artis, Steward Delegate Patrick Durnin. Bosun discussed reflagging of five Sea-Land vessels. He urged crew to write congressmen asking them to help protect maritime jobs by passing maritime revitalization. Treasurer stated $800 in ship's fund. N9 beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked contracts department about medical coverage concerns. SGT. WILLIAM R. BUTTON (Amsea), May 8-Chairman James Patrick, Secretary S. Bowman, Educational Director Manuel Cruz, Deck Delegate Matt Holley, Engine Delegate Victor Mull, Steward Delegate Herbert Hollings. Crew requested clarification of drug testing policy. Chairman discussed payoff and travel arrangements for crew. Bosun told crew there will be no liberty in Sattihipp, Thailand. He discussed current ongoing military exercise involving ship. Secretary informed crew all medical, vacation, optical forms available on ship. Educational director reminded crew to upgrade skills at Piney Point while on shore. Treasurer announced $389 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck or engine delegates. Steward delegate reported beef. Engine delegate advised crew to conserve water. He also asked that garbage disposal be used sparingly while ship at sea. He reminded crew of no smoking during meal hours. �16 SEAFARERS LOG JULY1995 Know Your Rights Company: Worthington Foods, Inc. Products: Worthington develops, manufactures and markets food products that are low in fat and free of cholesterol, caffeine and other ingredients that many people are trimming from their diets Facilities: Offices and manufacturing plant located in Worthington, Ohio, near Columbus UIW members at Worthington: Involved in all facets of production and maintenance Brand names: Include Morningstar Farms, Scramblers, Natural Touch, Worthington Foods and Loma Linda That's a fact: Worthington is the world's largest producer of vegetable protein foods Worthington Foods began operating 56 years ago literally decades before terms like ''fat-free, n "light" and ''all-naturar became common parts of the U.S. dining lexicon. Today, as Americans become more and more aware of the benefits of healthier eating, the company thrives by producing great-tasting, healthy food products. UIW members at Worthington manufacture and package more than 100 canned, frozen and dry products for consumers in the U.S. and in other nations. When Seafarers purchase Worthington products, they not only buy healthy foods, but also put their dollars to work for themselves and their fellow trade unionists. The United Industrial Workers (UIW) is one of the autonomous affiliates of the SIUNA. The Seafarers LOG regularly highlights various union-made products. LOG-A-RHYTHM In Memory of Thomas L. Magras FINANCIAL REPORTS. The constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership's money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretarytreasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by themembership,eachyearexamines the finances of the union and reports fullytheirfindingsandrecommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member's shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wagesandconditionsunderwhichan One year has passed since you left us, Memories of you are with me each day. For forty-eight years you sailed on the sea, And told us stories we loved to hear. You helped me feel a closeness to you, and I learned to respect the job you did. You loved only the sea and our family, and Each time you left I felt pains in my heart, but I understood. Your job was unique, as I have been told. God bless all the merchant marines. This poem was written by Marie Magras on the first anniversary of the death of her husband, Thomas Magras, who passed away March 26, 1994 at the age of 70. Brother Magras joined the SIU in 1944 in the port of New York and sailed to Normandy as part of the D-Day invasion during World War II. hers are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY D~NA TION SPAD. SPAD ts a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used t<;> fu~er its objects. ~d purposes 1.ncludmg, b?~ not ~ted to, furthenn~ t?e politJ.cal, soci~ .and economic interests ~f mant1me wor~ers, the preserv?tton and furthe~ng 0~ th.e Amencan merchant manne ~ 1 ~ tmproved employment opporturnttes for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union c~ncepts. In connection with such. objects, S~~ sup~rts and conn:ibutes topohttcal c~di~tes for elective office. All c~:m~buttons are vol~~tary. No ~ontnbutton may be ~olic~ted.or~~tvedbecall:seoff~rce, JOb discnmrnatton, financial repnsal, or ~~t of such con?u~t, or ~ a condittonofmembershipm!11e~rn~n orofemployment If a contnbutto!11s made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member s~ould not!fy the Seafarers Int~rnatlon~l U!ll~n or SPAD by cert~fi~ mail ~Ithi~ 30 ?ays of the con~butmn .for mvesttgatio~ .and appropnate action and refund, if mvoluntary. A member should s~pport SPAD to ~rotec~ ~d further ~s o_r her economtc, poh?cal and soc~al mterests, and Amencan trade uruon concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNIONIf at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Au th Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. Gov1t Reviews Cargo Preference Costs Continued from page 2 by Marie Magras SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individualintheunion officerormemher. It also has refrain~ from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. 1be responsibility for Seafarers WG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No moniesaretobepaidtoanyoneinany official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not havebeenrequiredtomakesuchpayment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. C0 NST IT UT I O NAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All mem- to cover costs that are beyond their control. At the same time, foreign-flag vessels seeking U.S. government cargoes are not charged for those costs, such as inland transportation in the recipient country and the risks associated with cargo offloading. The groups representing U.S.flag operators also noted that other costs borne by Americanflag shippers should be considered. Among these are expenses associated with U.S. govemmentmandated rules and regulations that do not apply to foreign-flag vessels and foreign crews. Cargo preference "administration and implementation must be based on realistic criteria," the associations stated in their letter to MarAd. At the same time the U.S. shipping groups were outlining their position on bulk cargo preference laws, the heads of the major maritime unions were expressing their views to President Clinton that national security factors should dictate that U.S.-flag vessels continue to carry Defense Department cargo. In a communication to President Clinton, the maritime union presidents noted that last year both branches of Congress had expressed their views that waivers, included in the Federal Acquisition Streamlining Act of 1994, allowing foreign-flag vessels to carry Defense Department cargo should not be permitted. However, the letter from the unions pointed out the Defense Department had announced plans to go ahead with waivers despite the action taken in Congress. ''The waivers-no matter how they are portrayed by the Defense Department-are not limited in their effect," the maritime unions informed President Clinton. "In fact, they would deny the U.S.flag merchant fleeta critical base of cargo that makes the difference between operating under the U.S. flag or not operating under the U.S. flag and without which the administration's maritime reform and revitalization proposal, which we strongly support, will be dead from the start. "It is indeed an outrage that a subordinate federal agency would deliberately undermine your maritime initiative and undermine your support for the U.S.-flag commercial fleet, destroy an entire defense-relevant American industry and export nearly 50,000 American jobs in the name of fixing a problem that does not exist," the communication stated. The letter was signed by Michael Sacco of the SIU; Joel Bern, Marine Engineers' Beneficial Association; Timothy Brown, Masters, Mates & Pilots; Michael McKay, American Maritime Officers; and Louis Parise, District No. 4-National Maritime Union/MEBA. �JULY1995 SEAFARERS LOB 17 Final Departures DEEP SEA ROBERT H. BENNETI' ,.-----=-----. Pensioner RobertH. Bennett, 84, passed away May6. Anative of Georgia, he joined the Seafarers in 1951 in the ~-----~ port of Tampa, Fla. Brother Bennett sailed in the engine department. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1924 to 1927, then in the U .S. Coast Guard from 1928 to 1932. Brother Bennett began receiving his pension in July 1977 . ROBERT M. BOYD Pensioner RobertM. Boyd, 67, died May 2. Brother Boyd started his career with the SIU in 1946 in the '-===---'---== port of New Orleans. He sailed in the steward department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md., completing the steward recertification course there in 1982. He served in the U.S. Army from 1950 to 1952. Born in Mississippi, Brother Boyd retired in June 1986. TOMMY CARSON Pensioner Tommy Carson, 78, passed away June 3. Brother Carson joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards before that union merged with the SIU' s Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District (AGLIWD). Brother Carson started to receive his pension in August 1973. JOSEPH A. CLAEYS Pensioner Joseph A. Claeys, 92, died April 25. Brother Claeys started his career with the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1952 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. He retired in April 1973. ANDREW DANKO Pensioner Andrew Danko, 74, passed away May7. Born in Ohio, he began sailing with the Seafarers in ~-------' 1953 from the port of New Orleans. Brother Danko sailed in the engine department. From 1940 to 1945 he served in the U.S. Army. Brother Danko began receiving his pension in February 1976. ANDREW FORIS .._.....__..,,,.,,,,,,,,,=-----, Pensioner Andrew Foris, 82, died May 13. Brother Foris joined the SIU in 1940 in the port of Duluth, Minn. Sailing in the engine department, he started out in the Great Lakes division and transferred to deep sea vessels. Brother Foris retired in November 1976. JESSIE C. HAMPTON SR. Pensioner Jessie C. Hampton Sr., 83, passed awayMay3. A native of · Tennessee, he began his career with '-----'===------=::..J the union in 1961 in the port of Jacksonville, Fla., sailing in the steward department. He served in the U.S. Army from 1941 to 1946. Brother Hampton started to receive his pension in December 1976. JAMES D. HARMON Pensioner James D. Harmon, 70, died May27. Brother Harmon joined the Seafarers in 1957 in the port of New Orleans. The engine department member upgraded at the Lundeberg School. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. Brother Harmon retired in July 1989. CHESTER HUGHART 1-::;iiiiiiii~l Pensioner Chester Hughart, 70, passed away April 12. A native of West Virginia, he started sailing '-=====_:._=..r with the SIU in 1943 in the port of New York. Brother Hughart sailed in the deck department. He began receiving his pension in July 1983. JAMES A. JONES • Pensioner James A. Jones, 73, died April 23. Born in Texas, he began sailing with the Seafarers in ""' 1967 from the port of San Francisco. Brother Jones shipped in the steward department. He graduated from the steward recertification course at the Lundeberg School in 1987. During World War JI, he served in the U.S. Army Air Force. Brother Jones retired in April 1993. CHARLES M. LAMBERT Pensioner Charles M. Lambert, 75, passed away April 2. A native of Alabama, he joined the ." SIU in 1949 --....__~ in the port of Mobile, Ala. Brother Lambert sailed in the deck department. A World War II veteran, he served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to 1945. Brother Lambert started to receive his pension in June 1985. ARTHUR F. LANGLEY Pensioner Ar- thur F. Langley, 91, died February 26. Brother Langley began sailing with the union in 1943 =-==== from the port of New York. He sailed in the deck department. A native of Illinois, Brother Langley retired in July 1969. FRANCISCO R. MALDONADO r-----=----===----....., Pensioner Francisco R. Maldonado, 64, passed away March 24. Born in Puerto Rico, he joined the Seafarers in '---------'--' 1947 in the port of New York. The engine departinentmemberupgradedto QMED at the Lundeberg School. Brother Maldonado began receiving his pension in December 1975. GERALD A. McCARTHY Gerald A. McCarthy, 53, died February 23. A native of New York, he joined the SIU in 1969 after coinpleting the Lundeberg School's training course for entry level seainen. Brother McCarthy sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. ABDEL MOHAMED Pensioner Abdel Mohamed, 62, passed away February 28. He began sailing with the union in 1963 from the port of New York. Brother Mohamed sailed in the steward department. Born in Yeinen, he became a naturalized U.S. citizen. Brother Mohamed retired in June 1992. JOSEPH S. MOORE Pensioner Joseph S. Moore, 77, died March 31. Born in Georgia, he started his career with the SIU in the '-------'==--=---' port of Savannah, Ga. Brother Moore sailed in the steward department and began receiving his pension in June 1971. JOSE A. ROMERO Pensioner Jose A. Romero, 69, died March 25. Born in Puerto Rico, he began sailing with the Seafarers in 1962 from the port of New York. Brother Romero shipped in the steward department. He served in the U.S. Army from 1951to1953. Brother Romero retired in January 1991. Brother Young became a natural- JOSEPH R. KLINEBURGER iz.ed U.S. citizen. He started to receive his pension in January 1979. Joseph R. Klineburger, 52, passed away March 2. Born in Pennsylvania, he began sailing with the union in 1970 from the port of Philadelphia. Boatman Klineburger shipped in the deck department. From 1964 to 1966 he served in the U.S. Army. MIGUEL A. VERDEJO Pensioner Miguel A. Verdejo, 79, died March 9. A native of Puerto Rico, Brother Verdejo began sailing with '-------"'===== the Seafarers in 1959 from the port of New York. Brother Verdejo shipped in the steward department. He retired in October 1984. VESTER V. THRASH Vester V. Thrash, 61, died March 23. He started his career with the Seafarers in 1970 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Boatman Thrash sailed in the engine department. Born in Mississippi, he served in the U.S. Air Force from 1951 to 1955. GREAT LAKES INLAND DONNIE G. DA VIS JR. Donnie G. Davis Jr., 61, passed away August 8, 1994. Boatman Davis began sailing with the SIU in 1989. The North Carolina native sailed as a tug captain and shipped primarily on Express Marine vessels. JOHN G. FELIP Pensioner John G. Felip, 73, died April 19. A native of Philadelphia, he began sailing with the Seafarers in """"'"--~~-' 1969 from the port of Philadelphia. Boatman Felip sailed in the deck department. A veteran of World War II, he served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to 1946. Boatman Felip retired in March 1984. YAHYA "JACK" MASHERAH Y ah ya "Jack" Masherah, 53, died April 22. Born in Arabia, he joined the SIU in 1967 in the port of Detroit. Brother Masherah shipped in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. ATLANTIC FISHERMEN JERRY PALLAZOLA Pensioner Jerry Pallazola, 76, passed away March 24. Born in Massachusetts, Brother PallazoJa became a charter member of the Atlantic Fishermen's Union in the late 1930s in the port of Gloucester, Mass. During World War II he served in the U.S. Navy. Brother Pallazola began receiving his pension in February 1983. DENNIS W. FILLINGIM AUGUSTINE "GUS" SUTERA Dennis W. Fillingim, 41, passed away March 31. Born in Alabama, he joined the SIU in 1973 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Starting out in the deep sea division, he later transferred to inland vessels. Pensioner Augustine "Gus" Sutera, 82, died February 22. He joined the Atlantic Fishermen's Union in the .......,,==-----=:::...._::::...J 1940s in the port of Gloucester, Mass. Born in Sicily, Brother Sutera retired in February 1977. Burial at Sea ROBERT M. SULLIVAN ·' Pensioner · RobertM. Sullivan, 73, died March 16. Born in South Dakota, he joined the Seafarers in 1969 in the '--....;...;_;='--==-"'== port of San Francisco. Brother Sullivan sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. He served in the U.S. military froin 1942 to 1967. Brother Sullivan began receiving his pension in June 1986. J FOON WON YOUNG Pensioner Foon Won Young, 78, passed away May 10. He joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1961 in the port of San Francisco, before that union Inerged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Born in China, The final wish of Marcus "Popeye" Thomas-to be buried at seawas honored last March. An SIU member since 1966, Brother Thomas died February 8. His ashes were cast to the waters of the Gulf of Mexico from aboard the Sea-Land Galveston Bay as members of the ship's crew participated in a memorial service. The Illinois native signed on with the SIU in 1966 in the port of New Orleans. He completed the Lundeberg School's training course for entry level seamen and shipped in the deck department. Brother Thomas also served in the U.S. Air Force from 1957 to 1958. �18 SEAFARERS LOG JULY1995 Lundeberg School Graduating Classes GEAFARER S HARRY LUNDEBERG 1 "'~,.:.::::-..l~ ...~s..:i. • .. . ;~:r.:.< LIFEBOAT SCHOOL CLASS s31 Trainee Lifeboat Class 537-Graduating from trainee lifeboat class 537 are (from left, kneeling) Charles Lore Jr., Michael Friesenhahn, Robert Frank, Michael Bowen, Bob Boyle (instructor), (second row) David Smart, Michael Bruso, Clint Stadler and Charles Slaughter. Radar- Receiving their radar endorsement on May 3 are (from left) Jim Brown (instructor), Henry Peterson, Robert Kendrick, Nick Moceri Ill, Richard Barron and Desiree Crockett. Welding- Marking their completion on May 16 from the two-week welding class are (from left, kneeling) Roman Zarkiewicz, David Vega, Paul Pagano, Tony Albright, Michael Martykan, (second row) Paul Lewis, Ralph Gosnell Jr., Fadiga Koutougou and Jim Shaffer (instructor). Bridge Management - Upgrading members of the deck department completing the bridge management . course on May 3 are (from left, kneeling) Robert " / Bakeman, Heley Mareno, Nick Moceri Ill, Richard "= Barron, (second row) Jim Brown (instructor), Eric ' Dobson, William Shelly, Henry Peterson, Robert Kendrick, David Heim and Desiree Crockett. U pgraders Lifeboat- Graduates of the May 2 upgraders lifeboat class are (from left, kneeling) Victor Quioto, Ray Wood, Harriet Lee, James Harris, (second row) Bob Boyle (instructor), Jose A. Lopez, Robert Torres, Natividad Zapata, Mary Chris Littel, Timothy Taylor and Wilbert Patterson. Tankerman Operations- SIU members completingthe tankerman operations course on May 17 are (from left, kneeling) Gary C. Mitchell, Shelton E. Drafts, Andrew Lopez, Steven Marwin, Russell BarrackJr., Scotts. Fuller, Bruce Holloway, Virgilio Casildo, Luis Gamez, (second row) Bob Carle (instructor), William Tanksley, Craig Pare, Brian C. Gauntt, Robert Pagan, George Mazzola, Leonel Lazo, Ricardo Ramos, Green Hoskins, Timothy Fogg, Janet Baird, Anthony Maben, Jake Karaczynski (instructor), (third row) Bret Hughes, Char1es Foley, Raymond Tate, Ray Banks, Gary Housman, Joseph Turocy, Mark Ramsey, Craig Holdredge and Reeves Homby. Not pictured is Isidro Palacios. Sealift- Earning their sealift certification on May 22 are (from left, sitting) Roy Jackson, Levi Rollins, (kneeling) Clinton Anderson, Joe Grandinetti, Stephen Dearborn, Robert Garceau, Mark Maiello, Craig Perry, Edward Tomas, Reginald Hunter, Eric Martinez, Brian Rotchford, (third row) Bill Hellwege (instructor), Robert Hendershott, James Crisler, Edward Corbett, Israel Rivera, Elieser Montalvo, John Nelson, Aubrey Davis, John Turner, Robert Elliott, James Girga, Mohamed Ahmed, Faisal Mawari, Rebecca Gaytan, (fourth row) George Mazzola, Joel Trotter, Michael Hargraves, Jerry Leonard, Jeffrey Fields, Kurt Benjamin, Tom Parisi and Craig Treadwell. �JULY1995 SEAFARERS LOG LUNDEBERG SCHOOL 1995 UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE The following is the course schedule for classes beginning between July and December 1995 at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship located at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. All programs are geared to improve job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. The course schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and-in times of conflict-the nation's security. Please note that as of August 1, students should check in the Saturday before their course's start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. 19 Steward Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Assistant Cook/Cook and Baker, Chief Cook, Chief Steward August25 November3 November17 January 26, 1996 Engine Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion QMED ·Any Rating August 14 November3 Diesel Engine Technology July3 October9 July 28 Deck Upgrading Courses November3 Course Start Date Date of Completion Fireman/Watertender & Oiler October2 December 15 Able Seaman July 31 October20 Hydraulics Bridge Management (Shiphandling) July 17 October 9 July 28 October20 Junes October9 July7 November 10 Marine Electrical Maintenance I July 31 Septembers Celestial Navigation November6 December 15 Power Plant Maintenance Joly 17 August25 Lifeboatman July 17 July 28 Pumproom Maintenance September 11 September 22 Limited License/License Prep. July3 September 25 August 11 November3 Refrigeration Systems & Maint. August28 October6 Welding October23 November17 Radar Observer/Unlimited July 10 August14 October2 July 14 August18 October6 Third Mate August28 December 15 All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. Safety Specialty Courses Inland Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Deck Inland August 14 October23 August25 November3 August4 November24 Course Start Date Date of Completion Advanced Firefighting September 11 September 22 Designated Duty Engineer/ Limited License/License Prep. July 24 Oil Spill Safety Recertification July 20 September 21 October19 July 20 September 21 October 19 Radar Observer/Inland November6 November to Electronics July 17 July 28 Oil Spill Prevention & Containment August 7 Augustlt Hydraulics September 25 October6 Sealift Operations and Maintenance October 9 November3 Tanker Operations July 17 August14 September 11 October9 November6 Augustll September8 October6 November3 December 1 ovember 13 Additional Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion GED Preparation August22 NovemberlO September 5 Adult Basic Education (ABE) and English as a Second Language (ESL) October27 Recertification Programs Course Start Date Date of Completion Bosun Recertification October2 November6 Course Start Date Date of Completion Steward Recertification July 3 August 7 Session m September 5 October 27 Deck and Engine Department College Courses --~-------------------------------------------·--···-·-------------------------·--··········----·----------------·-------------------·------------------ UPGRADING APPLICATION Primary language spoken - - - - - - - - - - - - (Street) (City) (Zip Code) (State) Dare of Birth _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Telephone~-~------ (Montb/Day/Year) (Arca Code) Deep Sea Member D With this application, COPIES of your discharges must be submitted showing sufficient time to qualify yourselffor the course(s) requested. You also must submit a COPY of each of the following: the first page ofyour union book indicating your department and seniority, your clinic card and the front and back of your z-card as well as your Lundeberg School identification card listing the course(s) you have taken and completed. The admissions office WILL NOT schedule you until all of the above are received. Lakes Member D Inland Warers Member D COURSE BEGIN DATE END DATE If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security # Book# _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ S e n i o r i t y - - - - - - - - - - - - - Department _ _ _ _ _ __ U.S. Citizen: D Yes D No Home Port ----------- Endorsement(s) or License(s) now h e l d - - - - - - - - - - - - - - LAST VESSEL: - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Rating: _ _ _ __ Date O n : - - - - - - - - - - Are you a graduate of the SHLSS trainee program? DYes DNo If yes, class# - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Have you attended any SHLSS upgrading courses? DYes DNo If yes, course(s) taken _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Dare O f f : - - - - - - - - - - SIGNATURE~~~~~~~~~~~-DATE~~~~~~~- NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? D Yes D No Firefighting: D Yes D No CPR: D Yes DNo RETURN COMPLETED APPLICATION TO: Lundeberg School of Seamanship, Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075. 7/95 �SEAFARERS There is still time to plan a family holiday this summer at the Lundeberg School. For additional information, see page 14. July 1995 Volume 57, Number 7 Par~si Sons Continue Family Legacy For the PansI fa~1.ly ~f Gloucester, Mass., sa1lrn~ IS much m?re than ~career. It IS a way of hfe, a family legacy. Three generati<.ms of Parisi me~ have bee~ fishing on the Atlanhc Ocean smce t~e tum o~ the c.:entury, and the fa:11111~ has drre~t lm~s to th~ Atla_n~c Fish~rmen s Umon which ongmated m 1936. (The fishermen's union merged with the SIU's Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes & Inland Waters District in 1980.) The tale of the Parisi men and women who helped mold the fishing industry in Gloucester lives on through the sons ~d grandsons of those who began 1t all. After nearly 60 years of fishing the Atlantic and surrounding waters, Atlantic Fishermen's Union charter member Salvatore Parisi, 85, now spends his days sharing old sea stories with other SIU pensioners at the St. Peter's Center in Gloucester. (The patron saint of fishermen, St. Peter is said to watch over fishermen while at sea.) "All of us old fishermen get together at St. Peter's and remember how fishing used to be. It is the only place for us to go. It is a way for us to keep in touch. I also like to keep in touch with the guys on the boats," said Parisi. "I retell all the old stories-but they still remember, they will never forget the Parisi family," the retired fisherman recalled. Legacy Begins The family story begins in 1900 when an Italian fisherman named Nicholas Parisi sailed from Sicily to the United States in search of a better life. Leaving his young wife, Grace, and baby daughter (also named Grace) behind, he promised to send for them once he found work and became established. When Nicholas arrived on the East Coast of the United States, he was recruited by a railroad company which was building railroad tracks from the East Coast to the West Coast. It took Parisi one year to reach California. In the Golden State, Nicholas met an Italian immigrant named DiMaggio (father of baseball legend Joe DiMaggio) who told him about salmon fishing opportunities in Alaska. The men traveled together to Alaska and worked with a fishing company during 1901and1902. In 1903, Nicholas sent for his wife and daughter in Sicily. He left Alaska and traveled east to meet his family. The young Parisi family settled in northern Boston, where he began fishing. The industry proved to be so profitable for Nicholas that he sent word to Sicily. Relatives followed his lead and immigrated to Boston. Nicholas and his wife had more children: Catherine, born in 1905; Rose, 1907; Salvatore, 1910; Thomas, 1912; Geraldine, 1914; and Mary, 1916. By 1922, the family moved to . . ly. Summers and winter breaks were spent with his family on the fishing boats. In 1980, he joined the SIU and continued the fishing legacy. "I can't see myself doing anything else but sailing. It was a natural calling for me. I am more comfortable standing on the deck of a ship than I am walking down the sidewalk " said Thomas. In 1982, the family's 97-foot The Mother Ann sank 75 miles eastofChatham Mass. Salvatore reti~ed soon after the sinking of The Mother Ann. At age 72, he noted that fishing had filled his life with both happiness and despair. After 57 years on the water, he decided it was time to hang up his fishing equipment and settle on the beach. .. Started at Piney Point Salvatore Parisi stands outside the pilot house of his beloved New England dragger, the Saint Nicholas, during the 1945 St. Peter's Fiesta. Inset, above, is Thomas Parisi, who graduated from the bosun Gloucester to be closer to the Georges Banks, fishing grounds located off the New England coast, and the Grand Banks, located off the coast of Nova Scotia. recertification program at the Lundeberg School last The same year of his father's month. Inset, below, is Salvatore's youngest son, retirement, Philip, now 34, Philip, who currently sails as a recertified bosun graduated from the trainee proaboard LNG tankers. While fishing in New England was growing for the Parisi brothers, so were their families. Salvatore was widowed at a young age when his wife, and the mother of his first-born son, Nicholas, passed away. In 1948, he married Ann, and she bore him three more sonsCosmo, Thomas and Philip-all of whom would follow in their father's footsteps. After beginning their sailing careers aboard the family fishing boats, each son went on to join the SIU when the Atlantic Fishermen's Union merged with the Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes & Inland Waters District in 1980. Both Thomas and Philip have graduated from the bosun recertification program at the Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, Md. Cosmo, after nearly three decades of sailing, has returned to Gloucester and lives a quiet life not far from his father. "I am very proud of my boys," Salvatore told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG. "I am proud that they have gone to Piney Point and that they are members of such a good union." While each of Salvatore's sons has a different reason for going to sea, each shares a deep love for the ocean and being aboard a ship that was passed down by their father. 12-gallon fish tank. Back then the fish were really big. You can't find them like that anymore," recalled Cosmo. "I thought that we could go home after getting so many large fish in one try, but I soon found out how wrong I was. We spent four more days out at sea, and it took another three to get home. I had made up my mind by the time we arrived back in Gloucester that I was going to quit. i never wanted to go fishing again," he remembered. When his father presented him with his first check, Cosmo quickly changed his mind and finished that first summer. He spent many more seasons fishing on the family's boats. "I wanted to be like my father. He was everything I wanted to be," said Cosmo. In 1963, when Cosmo was 14 years old, the Saint Nicholas caught fire 80 miles out at sea. The crew was dragging for groundfish when the fire broke out in the engineroom. The eight fishermen were rescued by another Gloucester dragger and they stayed nearby until their boat slowly sunk to the bottom of the ocean, early the next day. "It broke my dad's heart to watch that boat go down," said Cosmo. After the fire destroyed the Saint Nicholas, the family bought a new boat, the Estral (Portuguese for star). This helped them continue sailing until a new boat again named Saint Nicholas could be constructed. It was completed in 1965. Remembers First Trip 'Natural Decision' AB Cosmo Parisi, 46, started fishing with his father when he was 11. He still remembers his first trip to the Grand Banks aboard the Saint Nicholas. "We made just one tow and the whole bag came up filled with red fish. One fish was the size of a Bosun Thomas Parisi, 42, started sailing when he was about 8 years old with his father, uncle (whom he was named after), cousins and brother Cosmo. "It was a natural decision to begin sailing," said Tommy, as he is known by members of his fami- Saint Nicholas was one of the best-known fishing vessels of its time because of its many successful fishing expeditions and several dramatic rescues in which the boat took part. Sons Start Fishing At age 15, Salvatore joined his father and uncles aboard the fishing boats, followed shortly by his brother, Thomas. In 1932, when Salvatore was 22 years old, the Parisi family had their first new boat built. The Saint Teresa was an 82-foot fishing boat, and Salvatore (who was part owner) became the engineer on board. By this time his father, Nicholas, began staying home during the winters while his sons, nephews and their crews fished for mackerel, haddock, cod and flounder. In 1936, Salvatore and Thomas became charter members of the Atlantic Fishermen's Union. Salvatore noted that being a member of the union benefitted the crews of the Gloucester fleet because of the security it offered them, especial! y as they reached retirement age. Saint Nicholas The Parisis sold the Saint Teresa during World War II. In 1944, construction began of the family's largest and most famous boat. The Saint Nicholas, completed in 1945, was a 98-foot dragger capable of carrying 200,000 pounds of fish and a crew of nine. (Draggers pull nets that run along the bottom of the ocean to catch the groundfish which inhabit these lower depths. Groundfish include yellow tail flounder, cod and haddock.) · "She was beautiful," said Salvatore of the Saint Nicholas. "My fondest memories are of the Saint Nicholas. What they catch today in a seven- or eight-day trip is what we used to catch in a single day aboard the Saint Nicholas," Salvatore stated. According to Salvatore, the Family Grows gram for entry level seamen at the Lundeberg School. While he began fishing at the age of 15 with his father and brothers, the youngest of Salvatore's sons knew that he wanted to sail aboard deep sea ships. "I can still remember one ·n Nicholas. We were out fishing during a bout of really bad weather. The sea was tossing the boat all over the place for the entire four days we were out. I was really sea sick and felt lousy," recalled Philip. "As I watched the big tankers go sailing by as smooth as can be, I thought to myself, I have got to sail aboard one of those," he said. Philip has returned several times to Piney Point to upgrade in the deck department. Last November he graduated from the bosun recertification program. After The Mother Ann sank, Cosmo and Thomas followed their younger brother's lead and switched their membership to the deep sea division of the SIU. Retired Days In mid-June, the St. Peter' s Fiesta was celebrated in Gloucester. Salvatore's family started the traditional celebration-a weekend filled with Italian food and culture-when they first came to the East Coast from Sicily. Salvatore once took part in all the activities of the annual festivities but now participates only in the special mass held to honor the fishermen. With only one son on the beach and the other two on SIU ships, Salvatore says a special daily prayer to St. Peter to watch over his sons while they are at sea. After all his years fishing, raising sons who have carried on the family tradition, having four grandchildren (one more on the way) and one great-grandchild, Salvatore concludes, "I think I have had a pretty good life. I am proud of them all." � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 1990-1999 Description An account of the resource Volumes LII-LXI Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993; Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource July 1995 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES OPERATORS, UNIONS CHALLENGE REVIEW OF CARGO PREFERENCE FOR FEDERAL DEFICIT REDUCTION NAVY LEAGUE HONORS BRAND FOR WORK IN PROMOTING U.S. MERCHANT MARINE THE AMERICAN QUEEN STEAMS TO LIFE SIU-CONTRACTED PASSENGER RIVERBOAT STARTS SERVICE HOUSE CONSIDERS BILL TO EXPORT ALASKAN OIL ON U.S.-FLAG SHIPS CAPE RACE BREAKS OUT FOR BOSNIA EFFOTS CONTINUE FOR ENACTMENT OF U.S. SHIP BILL KIRKLAND ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT AS LABOR FEDERATION PRESIDENT DELMA NAMED BENEFITS PLANS ADMINISTRATOR ROSE HALL, WIDOW OF PAUL HALL, DIES AT 72 UPGRADERS TAB HAZMAT AND CONFINED-SPACE TRAINING AS TANKER COURSE HIGHLIGHTS SABINE CREWS RATIFY THREE-YEAR PACT AB HORTON DIVES INTO HARBOR TO RETRIEVE FALLEN OLD GLORY KINSMAN SEAFARERS SHUTTLE WHEAT ON LAKES SUPERIOR, HURON AND ERIE SIX BOSUNS REACH DECK DEPT PINNACLE CRUISE SHIP MEMBERS CONTINUE TO WORK DURING CONSTITUTION LAYUP AB HUDSON, FOUR OTHERS RECEIVE MSCPAC AWARDS SEAFARERS KEEP LUMMUS READY FOR IMMEDIATE MILITARY CALL-UP SEAFARERS CREW FABULOUS NEW STEAMBOAT PARISI SONS CONTINUE FAMILY LEGACY Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 07/01/1995 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 57, No. 7 1995 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/2864afc4bac612f67566f33ece9213c1.pdf 1f3c429f80197b8b778eb27eb41117e8 PDF Text Text Seven Students Awarded Seafarers Scholarships Crescent Boatmen Upgrade Skills at New Orleans Hall Page9 Pages Volume 57, Number 6 June 1995 Bill.to Ex Ori AK Oil On U.S.-Flag Vessels ate 74-2 Page3 Remembering Those Who Went Before ·,:i 9 i j ~ /I / , SIU-Crewed Faust Delivers Combines to Russian Farmers Pages Ceremonies held around the country last month remembered merchant mariners who gave their lives for America. Many of the ceremonies, like the one held in Washington, D.C. (shown at left), paid special tribute to those who delivered the g9ods to secure the Allied victory in World War II, 50 years ago. Paying their respects during the playing of Taps are, from the left, Admiral Joseph W. Prueher, vice chief of Naval Operations; Vice Admiral Philip M. Quast, head of the Military Sealift Command; Seat arer Darrell Baker; and Yeoman Second Class Kim Tatar. Page 6 �2 JUNE1995 SEAFARERS LOG President's Report Maritime Requires More Than Soundbites How do you describe the merchant marine in a 30-second soundbite? We're not glib. We're not fancy. We're not suave. What makes up the merchant marine is hard-working Americans-men and women who do whatever it takes to get the job done. It does not matter if the job takes mariners across the equator in the heat of summer, the North Atlantic in January or the Mississippi at flood stage. Seafarers are known for getting the job done, doing it safely and doing it right. However, how long does it take to attack the merchant marine? A 30-second soundbite will do. At least, that is what one nationally televised news show tried to do May 26 when it Michael Sacco labelled the U.S. merchant marine as part of "The Fleecing of America." For those who do not know what is meant by a 30-second soundbite, this is a television term to describe a news event in one or two sentences that can be used on the air rather than taking the time to completely explain a complicated situation or problem. Television news is built on soundbites. Interviews that may last up to an hour can be broken down into a 30-second statement that best fits the need of the reporter or story. The traditional opponents of the U.S.-flag merchant fleet were able to get their views across to the national viewing public on May 26, thanks to a report on the NBC Nightly News. Among those giving soundbites was a former Federal Maritime Commission member who fought U.S.-flag interests while on the panel, then left and took a job with a U.S.-based shipping company that operates ships under runaway flags. Also appearing on the segment was a front group for major international agribusinesses who would rather see American cargo carried on their own vessels than employ U.S.-flag ships. But these points were not mentioned during the report. The critics of the merchant fleet used the same tired arguments that American crews are overpaid when compared to foreign crews and that U.S.-flag ships cost too much. But the report did not challenge these accusations. The story made no effort to show that American merchant mariners are the best-trained, safest seafarers on the world's waterways. The story made no effort to say mariners, like other American workers, are trying to make a decent living wage under, in many circumstances, tough conditions. The story made no effort to point out that U.S.-flag ships have to meet strict U.S. Coast Guard safety and regulatory codes that keep them the finest and safest on the seas. Two months ago, the Seafarers LOG showed why runaway flag ships can charge so much less to carry grain than U.S.-flag vessels. Thanks to photographs from our affiliate union, the SIU of Canada, horrible living, working and eating conditions were disclosed aboard the Aghia Markel/a, which has Greek ownership while sailing under the flag of Cyprus. You get what you pay for. The television story challenged the notion that America needs a merchant marine for national security. Yet, when international situations develop, to whom does the world turn in order for anununition, stores and other materiel to be delivered? We know the answer to that question because we were there delivering the goods in Saudi Arabia, in Somalia and in Haiti. And that's just in this decade. When American goods are sent overseas, why shouldn't they be delivered by U.S.-flag ships with American seafarers aboard! Nations like South Korea, Taiwan, Italy, France and Australia enforce cargo preference laws, which call for certain percentages of government-impelled goods to be carried aboard ships flying that nation's flag. Why should America give up its right to do the same? After all, the U.S. is giving government-owned grain to a needy foreign country. Doesn't it make sense that it be transported on American-flag ships that contribute to America's economy, rather than aboard foreign-flag vessels which contribute nothing. Soundbites do have their place in the television industry. However, the need to understand the maritime industry takes more than 30 seconds. Congratulations to Scholarship Winners Congratulations to the seven men and women whose names have been added to the rolls of those who have furthered their educations by receiving a Seafarers Welfare Plan scholarship. Since the first scholarships were awarded in 1953, the SIU has shown its commitment to education. Our program was the first of its kind in maritime labor. More than 240 Seafarers or their family members have been aided by the cash grants. For those thinking of continuing their education next year, it is not too early to begin planning for the 1996 scholarships. With the rising tuition costs at colleges and universities, working families need all the help they can get to cover expenses. Volume 57, Number 6 ~Tl June.1995 The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 0160-2047) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District; AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Second-class postage paid at MSC Prince Georges, MD 20790-9998 and at additional mailing offices. POS1MASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Managing Editor, Daniel Duncan; Associate Editors, Jordan Biscardo and Corrina Christensen Gutierrez; Associate Editor/Production, Deborah A Hirtes; Art, Bill Brower; Administrative Support, Jeanne Textor. Gar11t Should Pay Fair Price For Right to Use U.S. Ships, Says 195 Hall Lecturer Barer As long as Congress mandates the need for an American sealift capability, the U.S. government must provide funding for an American-flag shipping ability, Stanley Barer, cochairman of Totem Resources Corporation, said in the 1995 Paul Hall Memorial Lecture on May 17 in Washington, D.C. In making his presentation, Barer relied on his extensive knowledge of congressional operations and the U.S. shipping industry. During the 1960s, he held several positions with the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, including maritime counsel and transportation counsel. From 1969 to 1974, Barer served as the administrative assistant to Senator Warren Magnuson (D-Wash.), chairman of the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee, which had oversight for the merchant marine. Today, Barer also holds the position of chief executive officer at Totem, the holding company for two SIU-contracted companies-Totem Ocean Trailer Express (TOTE) and Interocean Management Corporation. (TOTE operates a fleet of rollon/roll-off vessels between Seattle and A la ska. Interocean Management provides management services for a variety of vessels.) Worked with Hall Barer was asked to deliver the lecture because of his maritime background and his work on various pieces of legislation with the late SIU President Paul Hall, according to Herbert Brand, who chairs the Paul Hall Memorial Committee. In introducing the guest lecturer to the more than 120 represen ta ti ves from the shipping industry, educational community, maritime labor and government in attendance, Brand recalled the good working relationship between Barer and Hall that helped enact bills like the Merchant Marine Act of 1970 into law. At the start of his address, entitled "There Is No Free Lunch," Barer said he was proud to be a part of the memory and legacy of Hall, who served as the SIU' s chief official from the late 1940s until his death in 1980. "I spent over a decade working in the U.S. Senate," Barer noted. "Through that period of time, I saw, met and worked with extraordinary people. But no one made a greater impact on me than Paul Hall." At the start of the program, Dr. Robert Friedheim, director of the School of International Relations at the University of Southern California (USC), noted the lecture is a program of the Paul Hall Memorial Endowment at USC. Funding for the endowment began shortly after Hall's death. The annual lecture series, which started in 1987, allows representatives of the maritime industry a public forum to present their views. Barer discussed what has happened in the maritime industry and Congress in the past year. He noted how the House of Representatives passed maritime revitalization legislation, only to see a parliamentary move in the Senate keep that body from dealing with it. He next outlined the changes that have taken place on Capitol Hill since last November's elections when Republicans became the majority in both the House and Senate for the first time since the 1953-54 session of Congress. The new leadership in Washington has brought new ideas for running the government, he said. The Congress must provide the funds needed to maintain a U.S.flag shipping capability, notes Paul Barer ca1led for Congress to Hall lecturer Stanley Barer. Congressional Action Needed pass the maritime revitalization legislation currently before it. He noted the IO-year, $1 billion program that would provide funds for approximately 50 contai nershi p s would cost the government one-tenth of the expenditures planned by the Department of Defense (DOD) to increase its sealift capacity The complete text of Stanley Barer1s address is on pages 12-13. during the same period. "If DOD wants the continuing right to use a U.S.-flag vessel, it should pay for that right under long-term contracts, just as would any other shipper under a multiyear service contract," Barer said. "Would the payment by the government of $100 million a year for 50 U.S.-flag vessels be a subsidy to the operators? Of course not. It is undisputed that the cost to the operator for choosing the U.S. flag is a conservative $3 million a year per vessel. That is $150 million annually in costs for the 50 ships. "And that is before you consider the market risks of losing substantial commercial operations if the ships are taken for some period of time, that your vessels and crews may be blown up in a war zone." Barer went on to say, "If our national security requires the option of planning and implement- ing military scenarios that require secure, long-term supply efforts, even efforts enjoying the support of most nations, such as the one in Desert Storm, or more·controversial ones, such as we experienced in Vietnam, then the government must be willing to pay for the American labor pool it mandates as essential to our national security, and to pay for the right to use and have available U.S.flag vessels in the event of an emergency." Keep Jones Act Barer also touched on the need forretainingtheJonesAct,a 1920 law which requires goods moved between two domestic ports to be carried aboard U.S. -crewed, U.S.-owned and U.S.-flagged vessels. The lecturer pointed out his company is very active in Jones Act-covered cargo by carryinggoodsbetweenthelower48 states and Alaska. To answer the argument that the Jones Act protects U.S. shipping interests, he pointed out that foreign trucking, rail and airlines also cannot carry U.S. domestic passengers and cargo. "The.. bottom line is that domestic transportation involves jobs inside America, and those jobs should be performed by Americans. That is what the Jones Act provides. And that is what our national labor and immigration laws require for every industry in America." • Paul Hall Memorial lecturer Stanley Barer tells the packed audience of representatives from the shipping industry, maritime labor, government and educational community that Congress must pass legislation designed to keep U.S.-flag merchant ships on the high seas. �SEAFARERS LOG JUNE1995 3 Senate l'asses Bill to Export Alaskan Oil on U.S. Tankers House Debate Expected as Committee Clears Measure Efforts to lift a 22-year ban on the exporting of Alaskan North Slope crude oil as long as it is carried aboard U.S.-flag tankers reached a milestone last month when the Senate approved such legislation in a strong bipartisan show of support. Meanwhile, similar legislation was marked up by a committee in the House of Representatives and made ready for consideration by the fu11 House, which could take place as early as this month. The Senate voted 74-25 in favor of the Alaska Power Administration Sale Act (S. 395) on May 16, following two days of debate in the chamber. Elected officials from both parties spoke in favor of the bill and the jobs it would provide for mariners aboard the U.S.-flag independent tanker fleet. Senator Frank Murkowski (RAlaska), who introduced S. 395, told his colleagues during the debate that the bill "would require, and I emphasize require, the use of U.S.-flag vessels to carry the available oil that would be exported." Jobs for Mariners The SIU changed its longstanding position against exporting Alaskan North Slope crude last year when legislation was offered calling for the oil to be transported on U.S.-flag tankers. When he testified during a hearing on S. 395 before the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee in March, SIU President Michael Sacco stated such a provision would keep the U.S.-flag independent tanker fleet viable into the next century and provide jobs for American mariners. Senator Ted Stevens (R-Alaska) brought this point to the atten- MSC Awards Sealift Pact to SIU Contractor tion of the Senate. "I hope people from throughout the country will understand that approving [S. 395] will mean that Congress has taken action to preserve the independent tanker fleet and to maintain the thousands of skilled maritime industry jobs that will be required as we go into this new phase of distribution of Alaskan oil, and it will be done at no cost to the taxpayers," Stevens noted. Bipartisan Backing Prior to the vote, others took to the floor in support of the bill and its efforts to help the U.S. merchant fleet. "This bill ensures that the U.S. merchant marine will maintain its traditional role of transporting Alaskan crude oil," stated Senator Rod Grams (R-Minn.). "This provision protects existing U.S. jobs by requiring that exported Alaskan crude oil be carried on American-crewed, American-flag tankers." From the Democratic side, Senator Dianne Feinstein of Califomia said she supported S. 395 because Alaskan North Slope "crude exported abroad must be carried in American-flagged and American-crewed ships. Otherwise, crude oil that now comes to American refineries in American ships would instead be going to overseas refineries in foreign ships." Senator John Breaux (D-La.) added that the bill "will help ensure that we will continue to have Above left, House Resources Committee Chairman Don Young (RAlaska) expresses his support for the SIU-backed H.R. 70, which would pe_rmit_Alas~an oil to be exported on U.S.-flag vessels. At right, SIU L~grslatrve prrector Terry Turner tells the House Resources Commr~~e t_hat lrftrng the export ban would keep the U.S.-flag tanker fleet sarlrng rnto the next century. ---------------a reservoir of capably trained That view was confirmed mariners sufficient to man our when the House Resources Comreserve fleet in time of national mittee heard testimony about H.R. 70, which was introduced by emergency." Representative William Thomas House Action Begins (R-Calif.), on May 9. During the hearing, Energy The day after the Senate completed its work on the legislation, Deputy Secretary William H. the House Resources Committee White told the committee's chairmarked up its version, H.R. 70. man, Representative Don Young The action was taken by voice (R-Alaska), that the Clinton advote with support from both ministration is in favor of the bill Republican and Democratic as it is written. White restated the legislators. (When a committee White House view that H.R. 70 marks up legislation, the elected does not violate recently signed officials prepare the bill for the international trade agreements like the Organization of next step in the process.) Should the House pass H.R. Economic Cooperation and 70, a conference committee com- Development and the General posed of members of the House Agreement on Tariffs and Trade. Speaking at the same hearing and Senate would meet to iron out differences between the two ver- in behalf of the SIU, Terry sions of the legislation. Both Turner, who heads the union's cham?ers w~:mld. vote on the com- legislative department, noted prorruse legislat10n. If passed by mariners and U.S.-flag tankers both the House and Senate, the "will have employment opporbill would go to President Clin- tunities not available today." The ban on exporting Alaston. The Energy Department has stated the administration's sup- kan North Slope crude oil was port forthe legislation provided it passed by Congress in 1973 as a rncludes the use of U.S.-fl~g response to the Arab oil embartankers to carry the exported 011. go that year. 7 Scholarship Winners Announced The USNS Capella is one of eight fast sealift ships that Bay Ship Management will continue to operate for the Military Sealift Command. Seafarers will continue sailing aboard eight fast sealift ships, following the award of a contract by the U.S. Navy's Military Sealift Command (MSC) to Bay Ship Management, Inc. for the operation and maintenance of the vessels. The contract covers a minimum of three years and includes two one-year options for extension. The vessels covered under the new contract-all of which Bay Ship Management has operated for MSC since 1991-are the USNS Algol, USNS Altair, USNS Antares, USNS Bellatrix, USNS Capella, USNS Denebola, USNS Pollux and USNS Regulus. SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez noted that there was "stiff competition" from nonunion operators to get the bid from MSC. But the outcome "was, I believe, a reaffirmation of the excellent job done by Bay and the SIU," he said. "In particular, the company and the union did an outstanding job during Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm." The SIU-crewed vessels were able to load materiel in the United States and deliver it to troops in Saudi Arabia during the first weeks of the Persian Gulf buildup in 1990. They maintained a steady schedule of delivering supplies throughout the conflict. Fast sealift ships, also known as SL-7s, began their seagoing lives as U.S.-flag containerships. They were purchased by the U.S. government in the early 1980s and converted for military use. Now used for rapid deployment of U.S. military equipment to war and crisis zones around the world, they have cruising speeds of more than knots. 30 The vessels' roll-on/roll-off capability and large size make. them especially well-suited for transporting tanks, helicopters and other military vehicJes and supplies. They were part of a fleet of more than 200 us -flag ships directed by MSC that carried 15 million tons of cargo to and from the Middle East during the Persian Gulf War-marking the largest American sealift operation since World War II. Shortly after the fighting in the Gulf ceased in 1991 a number of U.S. officials prais;d the performance of the American merchant marine and, in particular, noted the important role of the fast sealift ships. V ice Admiral Francis Donovan former commander of MSC du~ing the Persian Gulf War described the fast sealift ship~ as "invaluable" during the war and noted that they were among the first vessels to arrive in the Persian Gulf. More recently, fast sealift ships transported equipment and supplies during relief efforts in Somalia. Grants Go to 3 Union Members and 4 Dependents A panel of educators met last month to select the recipients of the SIU scholarship awards for 1995. Three SIU members and four dependent children of Seafarers were chosen. Since the inception of the scholarship program in 1952, 242 studen~s have secure? college educ.ahon through this benefit provided by the Seafarers Welfare Plan. . AB Todd D. Hileman of Anna, Ill ..was awarded a $15,000 scholarship to be used toward a four-year degree. The 30-yearold deep sea member, who most rece~tl~ sailed aboard the LNG Gemmz, hoJ?es. to ~nro.11 at Southerl?- Illm01s Un~vers1ty. to pursue ei~her a career m teachmg or surveymg. . . Two scholarships rn the a~ount of $6,000 each were given to deep sea members PatrickJ. Rawley orLusby, M~. and Bryan K. Smith of Twm F~Jls, Idaho. Rawley, 30, who la~t sailed as an AB, hope~ t? use ~1s ~onetary a~.ard_ to ass1s~ m addictton rehab1htatton. Chief Cook Smith, 37, plans to utilize his stipend to upgra_de his cooking skills by attendmg one of the country's fine culinary institutes in _Yer~ont, New York or California. This year, the dependents of Seafarers receiving the $15,000, four-year scholarships were Ann L. Bilderback, stepdaughter of deep sea member Christian Christensen; Christine M. Kingsley, daughter of deep sea member Jack D. Kingsley; Arie D. Knuth, son of deep sea member David L. Knuth; and Mary Anne Morrison, daughter of inland member Holmes S. Morrison. For biographical sketches of each scholarship winner, see page 9. . . , As m ~e past, th ts year s panel of professional educators was appomted by the Board of Trustees of theSeafarersWelfarePlantojudge all the ~holarship app~catiol?-s. on the basis of. scholastic ability, character, high school gra?es, college board exams or Amencan College Test scores, letters of recommendation and participation in extracurricular activities. The panel was comprised of the fo1lowing scholars and academicians: Father David Albert Boileau, Loyola University; Dr. Trevor Carpenter, Charles County (Md.) Community College; Dr. Michael Glaser, St. Mary's College of Maryland; and Dr. Keith Schlender, the Medical College of Ohio. Also on the scholarship selection committee were Dr. Charles Lyons Jr. of the American Association of Colleges and Universities; Dr. Charles D. O'Connell Jr. of the University of Chi~ago; J:?r. Gayle A. Olson of the Umversity of Ne~ Orleans; and Dr. Henry Toutam of Gustavus Adolphus College in Minnesota. All application packages were carefully reviewed and evaluated by a panel of educators, appointed by the Board of Trustees of the Seafarers Welfare Plan. �~------------------------------------------------------~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~4 ---- SEAFARERS LOG JUNE1995 U.S. Ship Bill Clears House Defense Committee The House National Security Committee has sent to the full House of Representatives legislation that would provide funding for approximately 50 U.S.-flag containerships over the next 10 years. The committee marked up the Maritime Security Act (H.R. 1350), which has the support of the SIU, on May 24, one week after its backing was recommended by the House Merchant Marine Panel, which comes under the jurisdiction of the National Security Committee. (The process of marking up a bill in Congress prepares it for the next level of consideration, in this case, the full House.) Before the committee met, the heads of five major maritime unions, including the SIU, announced their support for H.R. 1350. "The bipartisan action taken Court Merges Lawsuits To Block Al'L Flag-Out Lawsuits filed earlier this year by the Seafarers International Union Pacific District and by two maritime officers unions and individual shipboard officers in an attempt to stop American President Lines (APL) from flaggingout six new ships have been consolidated in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia. The grouping of the suits was requested by the defendant in the case, the Maritime Administration (MarAd), and was agreed to by the SIU and the other plaintiffs. The SIU last month also filed motions for summary judgement (meaning a ruling without a trial) and for expedited consideration of this case. The request for expedited consideration was made because the six new vessels are in the process of leaving the shipyards and entering the market, while the motion for summary judgement was filed because this case involves only questions of law and no real factual disputes. The three unions that make up the SIU' s Pacific District-the Sailors' Union of the Pacific; Marine Firemen's Union and SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District-along with the International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots (MM&P), District No. I-Marine Engineers' Beneficial Association (MEBA) and individual licensed mariners have asked a federal district court to overturn a decision by MarAd that allows APL to operate six C-11 containerships under foreign flags, in competition with the company's U.S.-flag ships. Last November, MarAd granted APL a waiver from Section 804(a) of the Merchant Marine Act of 1936 - the law that forbids a shipping company receiving federal subsidies from owning or operating a foreign-flag ship in competition with U.S.-flag operators in key trade routes. The maritime unions have charged that the waiver granted by MarAd violates the Merchant Marine Act. Their suit notes that when the new C-11 s begin operating (the first two were christened in late April, and the other four are due out by the end of this year or in early 1996), they directly will compete with both subsidized and unsubsidized U.S.-flag carriers. Moreover, the waiver will result in the elimination of American seafaring jobs, since APL's C-8 class vessels and one Pacesetter class ship will be replaced by the foreign-flag C11 s. The lawsuit further states that APL' s application was not con- sidered by the Maritime Subsidy Board at MarAd, a process required by law; and that the flagout will mark the first time a subsidized U.S. shipping company has been permitted to operate a fleet containing subs i di zed U.S.-flag ships and foreign-flag vessels on the same trade route. APL receives operating differential subsidy (ODS) from the government for its 19 U.S.-flag containerships. These funds (which expire in 1997) allow APL vessels to compete with foreign-flag ships crewed by foreign mariners who in many cases are paid U.S. poverty-level wages. In addition, the foreignflag ships are not requ ·red to meet American government-mandated safety, construction, tax and environmental standards. (Also, foreign-flag liner companies generally are subsidized by their respective governments or are government-controlled.) The unions' lawsuit notes that, rather than granting APL a waiver to operate new vessels under foreign registry, MarAd could have included the six ships under APL's existing ODS contract while canceling the subsidies of some of the company's older vessels. Additionally, the unions strongly contend that another aspect of MarAd's rationale for allowing the exemption is particularly flawed. MarAd reasoned that unless the waiver was granted, "the new vessels would likely be sold to a foreign owner upon delivery ... with the result that the United States would have no ready access to the vessels in time of national emergency." The original lawsuit by the SIU counters that "it should be self-evident that the way to ensure the availability of vessels in national emergencies is for those vessels to be U.S.-flag vessels managed by U.S. crews, not foreign-flag vessels manned by foreign crews, particularly when the governments of those foreignflag vessels may prohibit their use in an actual national emergency, and foreign crews have no allegiance to the United States that would suggest their willingness to put themselves in harm's way in defense of, to them, a foreign country." For instance, since APL has contracted with a Cypriot ship management group to operate and crew the new C-11 s, APL will not have direct control of those ships in the event of a U.S. military conflict, the lawsuit notes. Nor may there be available a pool of mariners responsible to the company and the U.S. to operate the ships in dangerous zones. by the panel signifies a clear recognition that the strength of the United States-flag merchant marine impacts directly on America's economic and military security. It further reflects a total com~itment .to ensure. that Amencan serv1ceme~ stat10ned ~broad to protect Umted States mter~sts will not be dependent o.n foreign-flag vessels and theu mul~inational crews f?r vital eqmpment and supplies 01.~r armed forces need to do theu job," _s~d the state~ent. . J o~n~ S~ President M1c~ael ~acco m s1gmng the commum_catlon_ wer~ Joel B~m, Man~e ~ngmeer~ B~neficial AssociatJon president, Timo~y Brow~, Mas~ers? Mates and Pilots p~esident! !"ftchael McKay' ~e?can Mantime ~fficer~ pr~sident, and Lou Panse, Di~tnct No. 4NMU/MEBA president. liamentary tactic to keep the Senate from considering it, which kept Congress from passing the bill. The Virginia legislator added that he wished the legislation before Congress could do more for the maritime industry. Representative Neil Abercrombie (D-Hawaii) noted the merchant marine is just as vital to the nation's economic security as it is to its military security.Heaskedhowthenation could deal with international trade without a U.S.-flag fleet. H.R. 1350 calls for the Department of Transportation to provide $1 billion over a 10-yearperiodto help fund approximately 50 U.S.flag containerships. Those companies whose vessels receive the funding would make their ships available to the Department of Defense in times of the national emergency or war. Bipartisan Support Funding Differences A number of congressmen talked about the importance of the U.S. merchant fleet when the National Security Committee held the mark-up hearing on May 24. Representative Herbert H. Bateman (R-Va.) told his fellow legislators that "something has to be done this year." Funding for H.R. 1350 differs from bills previously considered by Congress. In the legislation offered during the last session, the money would have been raised by increasing the fees paid by ships entering U.S. harbors. The present measure appropriates the funds directly from the Transportation Department budget. Senator Ted Stevens CR-Alaska) noted during a speech to the Washington, D.C. Propeller Club on May 24 that the difference in funding would help gain more support for the bill when it is considered by the Senate. Stevens noted that Senator Trent Lott (R-Miss. ), as chairman Bateman, who chairs the Merchant Marine Panel, was referring to the fact that Congress has considered, but not passed, similar legislation since 1992. During the last session of Congress, the House of Representatives overwhelmingly approved a maritime revitalization proposal. However, farm-state senators used a par- Sen. Ted Stevens (A-Alaska) calls on Congress to quickly enact maritime revitalization legislation during a meeting of the Washington, D.C. Propeller Club on May 24. - - - -- - of the Senate Surface Transportation and Merchant Marine Subcommittee, would be holding hearings soon on maritime revitalization legislation. "I believe that we are committed to working with Sen. Lott on the legislation and I share his belief that we must act on this merchant marine legislation now," Stevens told the gathering composed of representatives from the shipping industry, maritime labor and government. President Clinton, in his annual National Maritime Day proclamation, called on "Americans to join efforts in support of maritime revitalization legislation." News reports note that the House could consider H.R. 1350 as early as this month. Flooding Stops Tug/Barge Activities Along Mississippi and Its Feeders Rising waters on the Mississippi River and several of its tributaries have caused SIU-crewed tugs and barges to delay their schedules for the second time in three years. Late last month, the U.S. Coast Guard halted all barge traffic along the upper Mississippi, Missouri and Illinois rivers because of high waters. At the same time, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers closed all of its locks along the Illinois and Missouri rivers due to flooding. The combined actions have forced Seafarers aboard Orgulf tugboats to tie up in safe areas until the rivers reopen. Seafarers navigating the inland waterways suffered a similar fate in 1993 when flooding of historic proportions closed the Mississippi for more than a month. However, weather reports do not predict the flooding to be as great this year. Unlike 1993, when constant heavy rains fell at sources of the rivers which caused the severe flooding, the rains of this spring have been localized to the Iowa, Illinois and Missouri regions. Also, the rains have not been as steady. "We had to do what was best for our crews and our boats," Orgulf President Fred Raskin told the Sea/arers LOG. "The flooding is tough on the crews who want to get going, but cannot." The flooding has reached Moore's Landing, Mo., where Orgulf crews shift tows of barges from the smaller tugs that sail the upper Mississippi to larger tugs that navigate the wider and deeper lower Mississippi. The Cincinnati-based company has had to temporarily halt operations there until the water recedes. Meanwhile, the SIU-crewed Alton Belle Riverboat Casino has not had to alter its six-mile cruises along the Mississippi from Alton, Ill. However, rising waters from the river have flooded the shoreline where the Alton Belle docks. Pedestrian and parking areas are underwater, so a temporary bridge, like the one used in 1993, has been built to keep passengers and crew dry while boarding and leaving the riverboat. Flooding has affected the area along the Mississippi River where the Illinois and Missouri rivers converge. Although the current high waters are not as severe as in 1993 (shown above) when the SIU-crewed Alton Belle Riverboat Casino was forced to stay docked, tug and barge traffic has been delayed. �SEAFARERS LOB JUNE1995 5 Faust Combines Hard-Working Crew and Deck Capacity to Deliver Tractors to Russia For the Seafarers aboard the car carrier Faust, the shipment of new combines waiting to be loaded on the dock in Baltimore last month was more than cargo. The shiny red tractors represented American goods that would be delivered by an American crew on a U.S.-flag vessel to the farmers of Russia. "It is good for us to be doing this," noted Bosun Hollis Goughenour, who sails from the port of New Orleans, as he supervised deck department members during the loading procedure. "It is helping someone else and that helps us in the United States." The load of combines and their destination were a first for the International Marine Carriers-operated vessel. The cargo would send the vessel to Helsinki, Finland, where the tractors would be off-loaded for transport into Russia in time for the harvest season. (Sale of the combines to Russia was arranged by the Export-Import Bank, an independent agency with the U.S. government. Under the terms of the bank, cargoes must be carried aboard U.S.-flag vessels unless a waiver is obtained through the Maritime Administration to transport the goods aboard a vessel flying the flag of the nation receiving the payload.) Besides Bosun Goughenour, other crewmembers relayed their feelings about carrying the combines to Russia. "This is a good thing," stated Chief Cook Robert Blankenship. 'The Russian economy is in dire straits, and this helps them. I've been over there before and they are pretty good people. "It helps our economy as well," added the steward department member who sails from the port of Algonac, Mich. "I enjoy helping anybody out," Chief Steward Todd Totzke, also from Algonac, said. "I especially like it when it's American mariners helping out other people." Also on hand to witness the loading was Bosun R.J. LeRoy, who recently signed off the Faust and was visiting the ship while it was docked in his hometown of Baltimore. "This type of job offers employment and keeps the cargo under the American flag," LeRoy pointed out. Bosuns Goughenour and LeRoy praised the crew aboard the Faust as hard-working. "This is a really fine crew," Goughenour said as LeRoy AB Mike Jarrell clears a cargo deck to make room for the Catching up on paperwork on the Faust is Chief nodded. "They work hard and make sure to get the job combines to come aboard. Steward Todd Totzke. done right." The Faust usually runs from ports along the Atlantic coast of the U.S. to Southampton, England; Le Havre, France; Antwerp, Belgium and Bremerhaven, Germany. On its 13 cargo decks, the roll-on/roll-off vessel can carry automobiles, trucks, tractors and heavy construction equipment. The ship has transported sailing boats and yachts that range in size from 8 to 85 feet. It also carries tanks and other vehicles for the Military Sealift Command and the Military Traffic Management Command. Reflecting on the wide variety of cargo aboard the Faust, AB Thomas Ruff noted, ''This is the most interesting of all the ships I have sailed on because of the cargo we carry." Bosun R.J. Leroy said it was great for Seafarers ''to deliver the tractors to Russia." Bosun Hollis Goughenour (right) shares a card from home with AB Elden Eubanks. Steward Assistant William Brown offers a plate of rice and Working on a pump in the Faust's engineroom are QMEDs Danny Vazquez beans to a hungry crewmember. (left) and Kevin Martin. �...------------------------------------. -- 6 SEAFARERS LOG - -- --·- - --- - JUNE1995 . Nation Remembers Bravery of Merchant Marine Veterans "Our ships, sailing vances along the East, Gulf and West coasts, the nation every ocean, have been President Clinton's Maritime Day Proclamation manned by courageous ofpaused to remember and The United States owes much to our merchant sailors. At our nation's beginning, these outstanding citizens ficers and seamen, all of thank our merchant marine veterans for their courage whom have left the security opened new avenues of commerce and helped nurture a fledgling democracy into a beacon offreedom for and their dedication to of their firesides and many people around the world. Since President Franklin D. Roosevelt first proclaimed National Maritime Day 63 freedom. of whom have given their years ago, the U.S. merchant marine has built on its legacy ofpatriotism. Its great tradition of courage and Maritime Day in San lives for the land of their valor is an inspiration to all Americans. allegiance ... " Francisco was celebrated This year, as we honor those who served and sacrificedfor our nation during World War II, the contributions with a cruise on one of two Those were the words of of the U.S. merchant marine are a special source of pride. We will always remember the heroism of those seagoing Liberty Ships, the President Franklin D. mariners and the dangers they faced to protect our liberty. Roosevelt in his Maritime SS Jeremiah O'Brien. With America's merchant marine and civilian seafarers have put themselves at risk time and again to support more than 650 people in atDay proclamation of May our Armed Forces. They provided pivotal service during Operation Desert Storm, during America's tendance-representing all 22, 1945, and those senti- humanitarian mission in Somalia, and throughout Operation Restore Democracy in Haiti. aspects of maritime (labor, ments continued to be exToday, our country remains determined to maintain a strong U.S.-flag presence on the high seas, a pressed 50 years later in management and military commitment central to advancing our nation's national and economic security. I urge Americans to join efforts ceremonies across the personnel) as well as interUnited States, saluting the in support of maritime revitalization legislation and our ongoing shipbuilding production program. ested passers-by-the ship civilian mariners who so Americans' pioneering spirit has endowed our nation with the most innovative maritime technologies and the sailed under the Golden Gate Bridge as hundreds of ably served their country most skilled maritime labor force on Earth. Working together, we can preserve this critical advantage for memorial wreaths honoring during times of war and generations to come. In recognition of the importance ofthe U.S. merchant marine, the Congress, by a joint resolution approved times of peace. lost seamen were tossed into the bay. Opening the Maritime May 20, 1933, has designated May 22 ofeach year as "National Maritime Day" and authorized and requested Administration's (MarAd) the president to issue annually a proclamation calling for its appropriate observance. In Norfolk, Va., the South Now, therefore, I William J. Clinton, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim May Maritime Day ceremony Atlantic Region of the on the steps of the U.S. 22, 1995, as National Maritime Day. I urge the people ofthe United States to observe this day with appropriate Maritime Administration Capitol, Maritime Ad- programs, ceremonies, and activities and by displaying the flag ofthe United States at their homes and in their held a wreath-laying ministrator Albert Her- communities. I also request that all ships sailing under the American flag dress ship on that day. ceremony to honor the conberger recalled the words tributions of those merchant In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this nineteenth day ofMay, in the year ofour Lord nineteen of General Dwight D. hundred and ninety five, and of the independence of the United States of America the two hundred and mariners who gave their Eisenhower on Maritime nineteenth. lives while supporting U.S. Day in 1945: "The officers armed forces. The William J. Clinton and men of the merchant ceremony, conducted aboard marine, by their devotion to the Cape Race (a Ready duty in the face of enemy Reserve Force ship operated action, as well as natural by OMI), consisted of a short Herberger reflected on the im- chant ships and American curate account of the help given to dangers of the sea, have brought portance of the day commemorat- seafarers have answered our their country by the Allies and of memorial service and a rendering us the tools to finish the job. Their ing mariners by noting the nation's call again and again- the courageous American and of a wreath to the waters. contribution to final victory will contributions of the U.S. mer- during World War II, the Korean British merchant seamen who Similarly, the port of Los Anbe long remembered." chant marine. "American mer- conflict, Vietnam and, most braved sub-zero temperatures and geles held its Maritime Day obrecently, in the Persian Gulf. rough seas and who lost their lives servance and memorial service at I 't' r ' I ""' It They also have served in support on the Murmansk Run, delivering the American Merchant Marine ';.:.... fl..~· of humanitarian efforts in vital supplies to the Russian people. Veterans Memorial in San Pedro, Somalia and Haiti. Admiral Prueher, vice chief of Calif. Gray Davis, the lieutenant "It is extremely appropriate Naval Operations, spoke about governor of California, and that we remember the past con- his recent travels to France in Beverly O'Neill, the mayor of the tributions of the American mer- celebration of the 50th anniver- city of Long Beach, spoke before the assembled crowd. chant marine as we look to the sary of D-Day. At the Seafarers hall in St. He noted that the French confuture role of the American maritime industry in a new inter- tinue to express amazement that Louis, a number of SIU veterans national economic and national young people from the United met for a Maritime Day ceremony security environment," the ad- States, who were so far removed to observe the memory of all ministrator told the crowd of from them, could go overseas and those who mariners who so willshipping executives, maritime fight and die for French citizens. ingly gave their lives in exchange labor officials and government He said that the citizens of for service to their country. personnel. western Europe see the United Another speaker on Capitol States as a country that embodies Hill, U.S. Representative Howard teamwork. "They look to us for Coble (R-N.C.), a longtime sup- inspiration, as a representative of porter of U.S.-flag shipping, also freedom and democracy," he recalled the importance of the said. The admiral stated that teammerchant marine during World War IL "On this day, 50 years work is found every day aboard ago, although our nation was ships. "But it is the people who make grateful for the end of the war in our ships work," Prueher added. Europe, our hearts and minds "And we must never forget this were with many Americans who fact." were still fighting bravely in the The nation's capital was not Pacific. We still had a war to win, the only city to celebrate the 63rd and the contribution of the annual Maritime Day. From a American merchant mariners was wreath-laying ceremony at Batcrucial to our victory. tery Park in New York to obser"Today we pay tribute to those merchant marines who rest and gave their lives so that we would remain free. As we prepare to face the peacetime challenges before us, let us remember the bravery, strength of the American merchant mariners who died during World War II." Representing the Military Sealift Command (MSC) at their commemorative service at the Navy Memorial in Washington, D.C. were Vice Admiral Philip M. Quast and Admiral Joseph W. Prueher. Vice Admiral Quast, commander of the Military Sealift Command, told the audience of his recent trip to St. Petersburg, At the St. Louis SIU hall, merchant marine veterans pose with the Russia, a city which alone lost official merchant marine flag as well as their chapter flag. From the more than one million persons left are (front row) Frank Kodelya, Don Adams, Pat O'Reilly, Jeffrey Students from the Lundeberg School form the color guard during during World War II. He noted McMahon (MarAd/USTRANSCOM Liaison Officer); (second row) memorial observances in Washington, D.C. They are Julie Gramling, that the residents of St. Petersburg Larry Olliges, Wes Haenchen Sr., Dr. Ray Bechtold, George Hodak, finally have been given an ac- Katja Buckley, Mike Buckley, Leonard Hults and Joe Hensel. Michael Bowen, Darrell Baker and Robert Frank. �SEAFARERS LOG JUNE1995 New Reg Will Change Tankermen Tests Certification and Training Rule to Take Effect on March 31, 1996 The U.S. Coast Guard recently announced an interim final rule that affects the training and certification of tankermen. Published in April, the new regulation-which goes into effect on March 31, 1996defines qualifications of tankermen and of other mariners involved in the handling, transfer and transportation of oil and other hazardous liquid cargoes in bulk aboard vessels. It requires tankermen to obtain from the Coast Guard one of the following five endorsements: Tankerman-Person in Charge (PIC)(Barge), restricted Tankerman-PIC, restricted Tankerman-PIC (Barge), Tankerman-Assistant or Tankerman-Engineer. In order to secure such certification, tankermen will have to meet standards for amounts of experience, completion of training courses and physical fitness. Additionally, the regulation significantlychangesthetesting procedures for tankermen. The Coast Guard no longer will conduct tankermen exams, but will certify schools (such as the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg SchoolofSeamanship)andpossibly operators to give the tests. And, in another departure from the current system, the new tankermen tests will include practical (hands-on) testing, so that mariners will have to demonstrate their skills in transferring liquid cargoes. The rule partly stems from the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (OPA '90), but also has roots in other legislation (the Port and Tanker Safety Act) dating back 17years.ltsintentistoimprove safety in the handling, transfer and transportation of hazardous liquid cargoes. The rule's full effect on the Paul Hall Center's curriculum willnotbeknownuntilafterthe Coast Guard reviews comments on the regulation. (The deadline for submitting comments is June 30.) The agency is accept- ing input from the industry regarding course subjects, establishment of minimum requirements for amounts of instruction, and the advisability of substituting field training or simulations for actual on-thejob experience. Fornow, the Coast Guard has proposed the following courses (a tankerman would need to take one or more, depending on which type of vessel he or she sails): a 40-hour tankship/dangerous liquids course, a 40-hour tankship/liquifiedgasescourse,a 40-hour tank barge/dangerous Iiquids course, a 40-hour tank barge/liquifiedgasescourseanda 16-hour firefighting course. The Paul Hall Center already offers a number of courses on transporting hazardous materials as well as firefighting training which seemingly could beadaptedtofullymeetthenew requirements. In accordance with the regulation, the school also may request that certain classes or parts of classes be counted toward a mariner's fulfillment of the new requirements. In any case, the new tankermenendorsementswillbevalid for five years. Once the original endorsement expires, a mariner need only show two transfers in ordertorenewtheendorsement, according to the regulation, published in the Federal Register on April 4, 1995. Check future issues of the Seafarers LOG for updated information on this situation. Safety Stressed in Tanker Course SIU member Scott Fuller hopes that he never will need to use the emergency-response techniques he recently learned in the Paul Hall Center's tanker operation/safety course. But, having completed the fourweek course last month, along with 35 fellow upgraders in Piney Point, Md., he is confident that should such a situation occur, he will know how to react. "I learned a lot in this class, especially how to combat different types of spills and what to do if someone is injured," said Fuller, who recently upgraded to QMED and who most recently sailed aboard the American Merlin. "It's important to know what you're dealing with; you can't just go right at it, even though you want to help. You must follow the right procedures." His classmates also praised the course, which is required for all Seafarers who sail aboard tankers. Recertified Bosun Anthony Maben said the Lundeberg School instructors were "great. They really made the course in- Confined-space training is part of the four-week course. Above, a student utilizes the training barge Empress II to simulate a rescue. teresting, and I don't think you could ask for a better bunch of people working at the school." Maben, who joined the union 28 years ago in New York, also said that he believes the class is a "very worthwhile" addition to the school's curriculum. plans; fit-tests using respirators and other equipment; and an introduction to fire chemistry, fire_fighting and fire/emergency duties. Oil-removal contingency plans, use of federal information guides designed to aid mariners, and rules for protecting the marine environment are among other subjects studied by the upgraders. Members of the last class also met with SIU President Michael Sacco and Executive Vice President Joseph Sacco, who brought the upgraders upto-date on the union's current activities, as well as reiterating , the importance of the safety course. Eye-Opener For AB Janet Baird, the tanker/operation safety course sharply raised her awareness of the potential hazards involved while working aboard vessels that transport petroleum products. "It really opened my eyes to some of the dangers, as well as the need for safety at all times," said Baird, who graduated from the Lundeberg School in 1991. Requesting Feedback "I thought it was really informaIn an ongoing effort to keep tive, particularly the sections on oil spill prevention and cleanup, the class as relevant as possible, Lundeberg School instructors and firefighting." are requesting the assistance of Open to All Seafarers Seafarers who sail on tankers. Developed by Lundeberg The instructors ask that, when School instructors in response possible, SIU members to regulations stemming from photograph and/or videotape the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 the equipment with which they (OPA '90), the class is open to work, along with any other all Seafarers. It includes hands- relevant operations. on training and classroom inSeafarers then are requested struction, as was agreed during to forward the photos and/or negotiations between the union tapes to; Paul Hall Center for and SIU-contracted tanker com- Maritime Training and Educapanies. (Check the Lundeberg tion, Attn: Ben Cusic, P.O. Box School schedule on page 23 for 75, Piney Point, MD 20674. The a list of upcoming tanker opera- materials will be used to keep tion/safety courses.) the curriculum as current as posSpecific exercises and sub- sible. jects include practical training for confined-space safety and oil spill/hazmat prevention and recovery. Upgraders also study tanker construction and general tanker safety, review sections of OPA '90 and learn about the chemical and physical properties of petroleum products. Additionally, students in the tanker operation/safety course examine the flammability traits, toxicity/asphyxiation characteristics and health hazards associated with exposure to petroleum products. Other segments of the course cover monitoring tanks for oxygen deficiency and taking other meter readings with atmospheric monitoring equip- Upgraders in the tanker operation/safety class discuss the importance of the course curriculum with SIU ment; creating shipboard safety President Michael Sacco (standing, far left). 7 �B SEAFARERS LOG JUNE1995 Crescent Engineers Complete DDE Course in New Orleans Fourteen Seafarers employed by Crescent Towing last month completed two special Designated Duty Engineer (DDE) courses that were conducted by Lundeberg School instructor Barney Kane at the SIU hall in New Orleans. Each two-week course was conducted on a week-on, weekoff rotation, in order not to disrupt members' work schedules. So from start to finish, the classes spanned a four-week period. A few Seafarers were unable to finish the course because of flooding which affected their respective homes and work hours. In fact, part of the SIU hall was closed for one day as a result of the floods. Despite those difficulties, the class-which was presented in order to help Seafarers remain the most qualified and best-trained in the region-was rated a major success by those who attended. Students particularly appreciated the convenience of having the class available at the union hall, as well as having it modified from its usual eight-week length. "This is the best thing that's happened to us in a long time," said Chief Engineer Jugo Barletto, who has been a Crescent employee for 17 years. "The instructor was a tremendous help to myself and everyone else. It was like a gift to us for him to be here, because it's not easy [due to work schedules] to get up to Piney Point." Barletto' s home, in nearby Manderville, La., north of New Orleans, was damaged by the floods, causing him to miss ·two days of class. But he caught up on the information by putting in extra hours after class, once he returned. "My whole neighborhood was McAllister Tug on the Move flooded," he noted. "In my home, I had to pull up the carpets." 'Lots of Material' B arletto and classmates studied "electricity, diesel, general safety, firefighting, hydraulics, compressors, pumps, valves . . . you name it," said Kane. "DDE is a little bit of everything." The course also includes the study of engine maintenance, automation, fuel injection, intake and exhaust, reduction gears, boilers, Coast Guard regulations and more. With so many topics to cover, For Seafarers working aboard McAllister tugboats in the Philadelphia the students maintained a brisk area, moving ships out of the Hess Oil tenninal in New Jersey is a pace throughout the course. routinepartofthejob. Picturedabove(lefttoright)areCaptain Richard ''There was a lot of material and a Roel and Deckhand Sean Taylor aboard the Eric M. McAllister. lot to absorb in that length of time, but this was a life-saver for me," tended liked it." month or two. (In order to bolster Barletto cited the study of their chances of passing the Coast stated Sal Macaluso, an engineer who has worked for Crescent for refrigeration and air conditioning Guard test, Kane regularly con14 years. "Plus, we received equipment as a course highlight "I ducted quizzes during last material that we can study on our took courses covering some of this month's class.) own, now that the class is over." in community college many years SIU Vice President Gulf Coast He said he "found everything ago, and this really refreshed my Dean Corgey noted Crescent we covered useful" and particular- memory," he said. "I thought the believes training classes for its ly was interested in learning whole course was excellent!' crews are important and effective "electrical formulas that you use to measures to constantly improve Exams Are Next safety and provide for efficient determine information about circuits, resistance and amps." The next step for the Seafarers operations. Crescent Towing operates Macaluso added that it was who took the course in New Or"great that we could just come to leans will be to take an exam ship-docking harbor tugs in New the union hall on our days off. I given by the U.S. Coast Guard in Orleans, Mobile, Ala. and SavanAccording to the captain, the live about a 20-minute drive from order to earn their DDE licenses. nab, Ga. Each tug sails with a weather conditions made the the hall, so this was really con- Most of the student-mariners plan four-person crew (a captain, two recovery of the crew by the venient. I think everyone who at- to take the exam within the next deckhands and one engineer). Carolina's motor lifeboat "very questionable." However, the containership stood by, ready to provide assistance, until the Coast Guard arrived. "Because the crewmembers· were not injured or in serious Seafarers aboard the Cape Taylor, danger, we thought it best if we stayed close [without bringing Cape Trinity and Cape Texas are keepthem aboard]. We waited until the ing three Ready Reserve Force (RRF) Coast Guard arrived and they vessels in prime condition. The ships, docked in the Mobile began the actual rescue efforts," (Ala.) Shipyard, are operated by Apex Dixon said of the mission. "The crew did an excellent job Marine for the Maritime Administrain making sure all the necessary tion. The RRF vessels are part of a procedures were taken so that if fleet of militarily useful ships owned we needed to bring them on, we by the government. They are activated were well prepared," Bosun in times of war or emergency. Skeleton crews--composed of a Dixon stated. The Carolina crew served as a steward/baker, QMED, chief liaison between the yacht and the electrician, bosun and deck engine Coast Guard, until a portable utility (DEU)-work aboard each of VHF radio was lowered from a the RRF vessels to do whatever it rescue helicopter. A portable takes to keep them in a state of repair pump was also lowered to the and preparedness. The Seafarers in the photographs craft so the crewmembers could stop bailing the water rushing in accompanying this article conduct inspections of all spaces, perform due to the high waves. Using the radio, the skipper of routine maintenance, operate cargo the Reel Me called Captain O' - gear, handle vessels' stores and adjust Connor to express his thanks and and rig gangways, among other duties. gratitude for returning to the scene, notifying the Coast Guard and providing assistance to his stranded crew. After a three-hour detour, the Carolina turned around and sailed full speed ahead to Puerto Rico. "In the master's opinion, the response of the officers and crewmembers was exemplary and highly professional," wrote the captain in his report to the LOG. "Special attention should be called to Steward Assistant Michael Anzalone's contributi on. His alertness spotted the emergency flare from the distressed yacht and he had concern enough to call the watch officer on the bridge. His actions started the chain of events that ultimately StewardLioydPalmerservesdinnertothe DEU A Day does some chipping in the engineroom of the Cape Tayforwhile QMED William Day looks on. led to the saving of three lives," ROS crew aboard the Cape Taylor. concluded the captain. Seafarers1 Alert Action Allows Carolina to Aid Stranded Motor Yacht Seafarers aboard the Carolina recently aided in the rescue of three people manning a 45-foot motor yacht, which was rendered helpless by severe weather and a lack of power. The Carolina, operated by Navieras NPR Inc., was en route to San Juan, P.R. when an SIU member spotted the troubled craft. According to Captain J.R. O'Connor, who sent a report detailing the incident to the Seafarers LOG, SA Michael Anzalone was on deck when he observed a flare in the distance. "I was on the main deck when I saw a flare coming from a small white craft off the starboard side of our ship," recalled Anzalone. "I immediately knew what it was and went to call the bridge." Once notified, the captain contacted the U.S. Coast Guard to inform them of the situation and commanded the engineroom to slow to maneuvering speed in order to commence a turn and sail to the area of the distressed yacht. Bosun Stewart Dixon noted that all hands reported topside to aid in preparations for the rescue. "We got the ladders and lines ready so that if we needed to bring anyone on board, we were all ready," stated the bosun. The yacht, Reel Me, had been sailing from Key West, Fla. to Costa Rica when it lost all power. The troubled vessel had been drifting for three days before beingspottedbytheCarolina,approximately 60 miles south of Key West, Fla. Having endured several days of rough seas, the Reel Me was leaking badly. None of its three crewmembers, however, was injured. The yacht had two feet of water in the bilges, which the exhausted crew had been bailing out in buckets. Because the yacht's radio had failed with the power outage, the Carolina crew communicated with the Reel Me through the use of a bull horn. Mobile Members Keep RRF Vessels Ready for Call-up �JUNE1995 SEAFARERS LOG 9 Seven Scholarship Recipients Head to College in Fall Three deep sea SIU members and four dependent children of Seafarers are the recipients The scholarships were granted in the amounts of $6,000 and $15,000 for both two- and ofmonetaryawardsfromtheSeafarersWelfarePlan'sscholarshipprogramfor1995.They four-year courses of study at institutions of higher learning. What follows is a brief were selected by a panel of educators last month. (See story on page 3.) description of the background and goals of each of the college-bound students. SEAFARERS TODD D. HILEMAN of Anna, ill. is the recipient of the four-yearscholarshipfor$15,000. Hileman, 30, is a graduate of the trainee program at the Lundeberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, Md., and has returned several times to upgrade his rating and earn additional deck department endorsements. He currently sails aboard Energy Trans_eortation Corp.' s LNG Taurus. Since joining the SIU in 1989, Hileman believes he has been afforded opportunities he could not have otherwise realized, such as the chance for an education. "Although anxious about the prospects of Todd D. Hileman returning to school and the changes in my lifestyle that will occur, I am excited at the thought of entering the classroom and accepting the challenges of higher education," the AB wrote in his scholarship application. He also will be closer to his wife, Sue Ann, and 11-year-old son, Tyler, and will have the summer months in which to continue his maritime career, he said. Hileman hopes to enroll at Southern Illinois University or Southeast Missouri University. His interests lie in the teaching profession. But he also is considering another course of study: surveying. This idea came about while he and his wife were attempting to buy a home and were informed that there was only one surveyor in the entire county in which they planned to move. At the age of 13, his family moved to Southern Maryland where they lived near the water and owned a boat. "I had great times on the Patuxent River," said the 11-year SIU member. During and after high school, Rawley worked at odd jobs in restaurants and marinas until joining the SIU at the age of 19. He completed the Lundeberg School's entry rating program in 1984 and has returned to the facility to take advantage of many of the upgrading opportunities there. He bas· two years of seatime as a steward assistant and assistant cook. He also worked for the school in the capacity of bakeshop instructor. p · R I During the Persian Gulf war, he atrick J. aw ey sailed as an OS and additionally has one year experience as an AB on tankers and containerships. Rawley currently works as a house manager and monitor at the Seafarers Addictions Rehabilitation Center-and would like to continue this line of work. "It has always been my desire to work for the benefit of seafarers; one possibility is becoming an addictions counselor," he wrote in his scholarship application. "My intention is to get a general studies degree, then specialize and tailor my education." The 30-year-old already has been attending courses at Charles County (Md.) Community College. PATRICK J. RA WLEY's first seagoing experience was on an outing with the Boy Scouts when he lived in Central New Jersey. "We took a PT boat (a World War II-era torpedo vessel) from New Jersey to Mystic, Conn., and the experience was a thrilling one for me," said the recipient of a $6,000, two-year scholarship. BRYAN K. SMITH, 37, credits much of what he is today to the encouragement of his parents and his upbringing in Twin Falls, Idaho. A recipient of the two-year, $6,000 scholarship, he learned early on that "to succeed at something, you have to first determine your objective, set your sights high and, finally, work hard at the day-to-day practice and routine that is necessary to_improve," Smith wrote in his scholarship application. "The key," he added, "is to not only find out what you're good at but that you enjoy as well." While working in Hawaii at a Sheraton hotel, Smith became intrigued by the hospitality business-" seeing all the different departments working together to provide a soothing and relaxing atmosphere for the customer while simultaneously solving their own day-to-day problems behind the scenes." For the next 10 years he specialized in fine dining service, workBryan K. Smith ing at some of the nicer restaurants on the Big Island. It was in 1988 that he joined the SIU in order to work on the cruise ships in Hawaii. After a few years, however, the travel bug got to him when he learned of the opportunities available. And so he went to Piney Point in 1991 to learn to cook and was "delighted to find that working in the galley gave me a much greater sense of achievement than the service side ever had. For me, cooking is the perfect blend of science and art." Since leaving Piney Point and working on ships, Smith has continued to learn by reading, practical experience and sharing ideas with others. But, in order to reach the next level, he sees the need for the additional training that a good culinary school can provide. Smith has applied to the New England Culinary Institute (Vt), the Culinary Institute of America (N.Y.) and the California Culinary Institute (San Francisco) with the goals of becoming a more professional cook, contributing positively to the reputation of the SIU' s steward department and growing both personally and professionally. DEPENDENTS Since the fifth grade, ANNL. BILDERBACK has known that veterinary medicine is the right career for her. Graduating this year from Willow Glen High School in San Jose, Calif., the 17-year-old plans to use her four-year scholarship award to continue in that field And she already has lots of experience, having worked part time as a veterinary assistant at a clinic since 1993, assisting with X-rays and surgeries, giving vaccines and drawing blood, among other duties-all while maintaining an A average in her school studies. She enjoys working in a private veterinary practice but hopes eventually to be in a position to help animals that live (or should live) in the wildpossibly in a zoo. "I would like to be a veterinarian working with those animals that are unable to take care of themselves," she wrote in her application for the $15,000 scholarship, "especially with those animals in danger of Ann L. Bilderback extinction." She hopes to realize her career goals at Dartmouth College (N.H.) or Harvard University (Mass.). Bilderback' s academic record has been superior, and her efforts have not gone unrecognized. She was selected as a recipient of the Xerox Award in Humanities as well as the United States Navy Laureate Edward Teller A ward for achievement in science and math. She also was selected to participate in the Harvard University summer school program where she studied astronomy and computer science. But apart from her rigorous academic schedule, Bilderback also has been a valuable member of the school community through her leadership and participation in a number of activities. She is a two-sport athlete (varsity track and tennis) and has been very active in student government-serving as freshman class secretary, sophomore class treasurer and junior class secretary. She was initiated into the National Honor Society in her sophomore year, has been a member of the California Scholarship Federation and also served as treasurer oflnteract (a Rotarysponsored community service club). Ann Bilderback is the daughter of Chong Yun and stepdaughter of Christian Albert Christensen, an SIU member since 1947. For the past several years, the deep sea mariner has worked aboard Sea-Land Service vessels, most recently as a recertified bosun aboard the Sea-Land Endurance. portunity to preserve law and help others be treated fairly." Christine Kingsley is the daughter of Remy and Jack Kingsley, a member of the Sill's deep sea division since 1973. He sails as a recertified bosun, most recently aboard the Sea-Land Explorer. CHRISTINE M. KINGSLEY's academic achievements started as early as kindergarten. She learned to read and do all four mathematical operations before entering grade school and then skipped the first grade. This academic promise continued through her schooling-graduating as valedictorian from junior high school in 1991 and ranking in the top 10 of her senior class. She has never received below a "B" on a report card, and with honors and advanced placement classes, her grade point average Christine M. Kingsley remains above 4.0. But in addition to her academic achievement, the 16-yearold graduate of Armijo High School in Fairfield, Calif. also exhibits leadership qualities. She served as president and treasurer of the Good Sams Club and has been active in cheerleading and keeping statistics for the wrestling and baseball teams. She also tutors students in various subjects and works at a part-time job. "Being a leader has taught me responsibility, organization and commitment," she wrote in her autobiographical statement on her scholarship application. "These attributes will help me in my future academic studies and career." After high school, Kingsley plans to use her four-year, $15,000 scholarship to continue her education at the University of California in Berkeley. She plans to study about her ancestors, the Native Americans, and major in economics. Following her undergraduate degree, she hopes to attend law school and become a civil rights lawyer. "As I was growing up," she wrote, "I always felt the need for situations to be fair and equal. Becoming a lawyer would give me the op- ARIC D. KNUTH' s mission is to educate as many people as he can. The high school senior will graduate from Oscoda High School in Oscoda, Mich. this month and plans to use his four-year scholarship award to attend the University of Michigan. 'The primary element in my future plans 1r-----------. is diversity," wrote Science has always the 18-year-old fascinated MARY Knuth on his apANNE MORplication form. "I RISON, and so a have a firm belief biological science that in order to major it will be for achieve the highest the 19-year-old as she takes addegreeofhappiness and success, one vantage of her must seek a wide $15,000 scholarrange of education ship to continue her and strive to mainstudies at Wellesley College (Mass.) - - - - tain a future which may take a variety Mary Anne Morrison in the fall. Arie D. Knuth of twists and turns As a member of and unseen changes." the class of 1998, she already has completed With this philosophy, the University of her first year there, taking courses in matheMichigan's dual degree program seems matics, economics, history and Italian. Morrison graduated from Poughkeepsie tailor-made to his needs (a BFA in theatre performance and a BA in French with a teach- High School in New York last year with an ing certificate). 'This broad educational back- A+ average. She was a member of the Naground will allow me to reach a number of tional Honor Society and participated in the career goals which ultimately will result in a jazz ensemble, concert band and also helped full-timeteachingpositionateitherasecondary in the successful campaign of or university level," he stated. Poughkeepsie's mayor. Two major forces fuel the young man's Medical school remains a possibility for ambitions. The first is an undying love for the future, but whether she wants to be inthe stage. 'Theatre is a field which I must volved in the practical or the research side of pursue in order to reach any degree of self- medicine is still up in the air. satisfaction," Knuth added in his "I want to spend the next 40 or 50 years autobiographical statement on the scholar- of my life doing something that I love," ship application. The second is the desire to Morrison wrote on her application, "and I sculpt and mold the human mind-to help also want to do something rewarding. Scienpeople see things from different perspec- tific research and medicine are constantly tives. "I feel it is my mission to educate as growing and changing, and I want to be a part many people as I can ... I look to the theatre of all that." Mary Anne Morrison is the daughter of as a primary tool in my teaching. Ifl can get people to explore their emotions and experi- Martha and Holmes Morrison Jr. The inment with different modes of thought, I will land member joined in SIU in 1975 and currently sails as a mate aboard G&H be able to deem myself successful." Aside from his "A" average in high Towing Co.'s Gretchen. school, where he ranked fourth in a class of 92, Knuth also worked 20-30 hours a week as a clerk in a video store, was a member of the student council and the National Honor Society, served as president of the mixed choir and captain of the forensics group. He also has volunteered in a local soup kitchen and helped out with the Special Olympics for the past four years. Arie Knuth is the son of Janice Ballor and David Knuth. The elder Knuth, a member of the deep sea division, joined the SIU in 1973. He most recently sailed aboard Bay Ship Management's USNS Potomac as an AB. �r------- - -- - - - - - -·-·- - ---- - - 10 SEAFARERS LOG JUNE1995 Dardens: Piney Point Is A Family Affair SIU Training Center Open To All Vacationing Sea/arers Gourmet food , beautifully and they said, "PINEY manicured grounds, sailboats, PO/NI'!!!" My wife and I were tennis courts and an Olympic not surprised. size swimming pool. Does this My first trip to the Paul Hall sound like an expensive vaca- Center was in March 1976 tion resort? Think again. after I received my AB ticket All of the above can be ex- and my full union book with perienced by Seafarers and the SIU. Things were not as their families at the Paul Hall plush at the school then as they Center in Piney Point, Md., are now, but I couldn't help where over the years, many SIU thinking that the school was families have traveled to enjoy something good. Also, I their summer vacations. With couldn't help liking the area. I affordable rates and exciting saw lots of water, boats and activities to capture the inter- good fishing and crabbing opes ts of children and adults portunities. alike, Piney Point is the ideal summer getaway. The First of Many Return Visits The facility, located in St. In 1982, I was sailing in the Mary's County, Md., offers ac- deep sea division and went ti vi ties for everyone on its back to the school for a celesgro unds. The center also tial navigation course. I was provides the ideal lodging loca- shipping out ofBaltimore and tion for those wishing to ex- hadjust gotten married to my plore the sites of nearby wife, Pam. At that time, Washington, D.C. and An- upgraders'wivescouldn'tstay napolis, Md. overnight at the facility, so Last month's issue of the when Pam came down, u:e manage the center. Also we Seafarers LOG featured letters would rent .a hotel room in enjoy meeting new friends from Bobby and Jessie Darden, nearby Lexington Pa~k, Md. who are Seafarers from other thechildrenofABJimDarden Pam also loved to fish a'!d parts of the country and and his wife, Pam, detailing the crabandfeltcomfortable with world. adventures and fun they dis- the people she met and I can honestly say that cover each time their family generally loved the area. everyone we ha ve met a t th e returns to the Paul Hall Center When we were walking PaulHallCenterhasmadethe for a ~acation. aro'!'nd the center, PCf-m Darden family feel at home. With the summer season offi- noticed steel beam~ lyi.ng Piney Point has become a real cially due to begin this month, aroun_d where the swimming home away from home for our there still is time for other pool is now. I told her they family. ... Seafarers and their families to fol- werefor the new SIU hotel and low the Darden family's lead and that once completed, ~ea/arer_s Thank You plan their own special fun-filled wou1!1_ be able to b~ng their My family and I can enjoy holiday in historic Southern f a"':tltes to s.tay with them the Paul Hall Center because of Maryland. while upgrading. all the hard work and foresight This month, read what Jim In 1987 I had heard that put into its inception. Paul Hall Darden has to say about bring- the hotel was up and running. had the vision and ing his family to Piney Point as Since that time, myfamily and forethought for the maritime the LOG continues to feature I have made two or three long center. and others who came photos from the Darden family weekends or vacation trips a after him made sure that his album of summers spent at the year to the Paul Hall Center. dream of a place where all Paul Hall Center. For my family and me, the Sea/arers would be welcomed April 1995 Paf!-l !fall Center in Piney was made true. Dear Fellow Seafarers: Point~ a grea~plac~ to take a Mike Sacco is at the helm Here it is April already and v~catio'!·. Swimming, crab- n.ow ant:f keeps improving_a_nd my kids have requested a b!ng_, sailing,_ craft shows and ftne-tun_in~ the dream, vt.ston family meeting. Of course, the ftshin? are !ll!~ some 01 ~ur and mission of the Paul Hall . Center and the SIU. subject was: ''Where can we go f avonte activities. on vacation and how much The center has everything I think every man and money do we have to work we need, and the cost is fair. woman holding an SIU union with?" Washington, D.C. is about two book owes a debt ofgratitude The kids have wanted to go hours away frc!m the center, to all the people who m~de the to Disney World for a long and a day trip is always a fun Paul Hall Center a reality and time. We talked about thatfor family acti~ity. If Y?U _don't to the people who continue to a while and Mom and I ex- want to go into the big city, St. make the dream grow. plained to Bobby and Jessie Mary'sCountyalsohasalotto If you haven't taken your that Disney World just wasn't offer. f amity on a vacation visit to in our budget this year . . . To be honest, the thing that the Paul Hall Center in Piney Mom and I asked the kids draws my f amity back to Point, do you and your kids a what their second choice was. Piney Pointyearafteryearare favor. Call for reservations Bobby and Jessie's eyes lit up the people who staff and now and check it out. After feeding the ducks, the Darden children pose for one last picture before heading home to Pennsylvania to wait for next summer's vacation--in Piney Point. In oval inset is a recent photograph of the Darden family. Jessie enjoys a day at the pool with two other children she met vacationing at the Paul Hall Center. 1---------.---------:-;•p:=!!l"--::-----, Bobbie and Jessie Darden (center) and their cousins, John (left), and Emily (right), pose next to the binnacle aboard one of the maritime center's training boats. r--------------------------------1 SEAFARERS TRAINING &RECREATION CENTER-Vacation Reservation Information Name:~------------------------------- Social Security number: __________ Book number: _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Address: ----------------------------~ Telephone number: _________________________ Number in party I ages of children, if applicable: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ A vacation stay at the Lundeberg School is limited to two weeks per family. Member $40.40//day $ 9.45/day Spouse Child $ 9.45/day Note: There is no charge for children 11 years of age or younger. The prices listed above include all meals. Date of arrival: Date of departure: 1st choice 2nd choice 3rd choice IStay is limited to a maximum of two weeks. I Send this completed application to the Seafarers Training & Recreation Center, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674. L-------------------------------~~ �JUNE1995 SEAFARERS LOB 11 Another peek into the Seafarers LOG family album shows us some happy moments in the lives of Seafarers and their families, including a wedding anniversary, a fishing expedition and lots and lots of children and grandchildren. As always, the LOG welcomes your photographs and will publish them on a periodic basis. �12 SEAFARERS LOG JUNE1995 Free Market Calls for Proper Funding Of U.S. Merchant Fleet, Says Totem CEO Paul Hall Lecturer Stanley Barer Urges Congress, Military to Support Ship Bill t is a very special honor to have been asked to be the Paul Hall Mei1lorial Lecturer for this year and to be associated in this way with the memory and legacy of Paul Hall. I am, as well, humbled to find myself among those who previously have been so honored. In August of 1963, I came to Washington, D.C. from the state of Washington to work for Senator Warren G. Magnuson, the chairman of the Senate Commerce Committee. I spent over a decade working in the U.S. Senate. Through that period of time, I saw, met and worked with extraordinary people. But no one made a greater impact on me than I Patil Hall. Power, conv1ct10n and advocacy poured from him in a torrent. He could fill an entire hearing room simply with his presence and advocacy. He did not mince words. He probably did more for this industry than all of us in this room combined. My predecessors in this lecture series have all spoken with great eloquence about the need for a maritime reform program and the importance of the merchant marine. Each has warned that we were running out of time-that the end of our industry was approaching. Each of them was right. I am afraid that the day each of them warned was coming Following delivery of his lecture, Stanley Barer (right) receives a glass etching of Paul Hall from Dr. Robert Friedheim, director of the USC School of International Relations, which oversees the endowment for the program series. The speaker for the 1995 WhileservingonthecommitPaul Hall Memorial Lecture tee, Barer had many opporwas Stanley H. Barer, the tunities to work on maritime cochairman and chief executive legislation with the late SIU officer of Totem Resources Cor- President Paul Hall. The lecture series honors the poration (TRC), of which he is memory of Hall, who served as one of the principal owners. TRC is a holding comp<:ny the SIU's principal officer from for three U.S. -flag maritime the late 1940s until his death in ope~ating enti.ti~s .. Two of 1980. Hall fought for a strong TRC s thre~ subsidiaries, Totem u.s. -flag merchant marine Ocean Tralier Express, Inc. and and worked with Congress to Intero.cean Management Car- pass many maritime bills, inporatw'!, are SIU-contracted eluding the Merchant Marine Act of 1970. companies. Barer' s interest in maritime An endowment to honor Hall began in the 1960s when he worked in a variety ofcapacities was established at the Univerwith the U.S. Senate Committee sity of Southern California by on Commerce, including friends and associates in ormaritime counsel, transporta- ganized labor and the maritime tion counsel and acting general industry shortly after his death. counsel. He became the ad-. The endowment honors distinministrative assistant to U.S. guished contributors to marine Senator Warren G. Magnuson transportation by providing a (chairman of the Senate Com- public forum for their thoughts mittee on Commerce, Science in the form of an annual lecture. and Transportation) from 1969 The first lecture was delivered to 1974. in 1987. has come and may have passed. The industry as we know it may already be dead, and we have just not yet had the burial and wake. Paul Hall would not like the current state of affairs or perhaps some of the things that I am going to say today. But Paul always spoke his mind, and in deference to him, I will do the same. I want to talk today about the absolute imperative of rapid enactment of the proposed Maritime Security Program legislation. I am not pleading a case for benefit to my own companies. Our maritime activity is almost totally domestic. We could not qualify for any payments under the proposed legislation. I am speaking out of conviction as to what I believe most important to the future of this industry. And if I make some people uncomfortable today by my characterization of the current state of affairs, that is all right. This is what has happened since the last Paul Hall Memorial Lecture delivered by James Barker in May of 1994. Maritime reform, which had passed overwhelmingly in the House of Representatives, with strong support by the [Clinton] administration, languished for months in the United States Senate. Although a majority of our friends on the Senate Commerce Committee had indicated their support for maritime reform and the imperative nature of its early enactment, in fact a committee vote on the bill was never called until the waning days of the session. At the time the vote was final1y called for, the committee executive session was scheduled for a time of day which violated the rules of the Senate. An opponent of the legislation objected, and the majority of the committee and its chairman-senators that we believed strongly supported the legislation-agreed to drop maritime reform but proceed with other legislative business of the committee. That ended maritime reform for that Congress and may well have ended the maritime industry as we have known it. The chairman of the Senate Commerce Committee today happens to be the senator who raised the objection last year to consideration of the maritime reform legislation. I believe his concern went to the funding mechanism, and with that now modified, hopefully we will have his support. J e election this past November revolutionized he country and the Congress. Since the Republican-controlled House and Senate were sworn in, the following has occurred: 1. The House of Representatives abolished the House Merchant Marine and Fisheries Committee. 2. The Senate abolished the separate merchant marine sub- "The Congress must make a new determination that a U.S.-flag fleet employing trained, skilled, loyal and patriotic American sea-going labor is essential to our national security." committee. 3. Budget proposals from the House, with the support of the new leadership, call for abolishment of the Federal Maritime Commission and the Interstate Commerce Commission which provide the regulatory structure for the services provided by our industry. If there is no industry, there is no need for a regulatory structure. 4. The administration, in a belated attempt to get on board with the new revolution, has concurred in abolishing the ICC, given only lukewarm support to continuation of the FMC and has come forth with its own plan to cut by half the Department of Transportation and extinguish the Maritime Administration. 5. APL, Sea-Land and Lykes have asked for, and received, permission from the administration to place over a dozen vessels under foreign registry. Maritime jurisdiction in the House is now split between the Transportation Committee and the National Security Committee, with the National Security Committee having lead responsibility on the issue of maritime reform. If the National Security Committee is going to be the determinative body of the House on·· maritime reform, then an obvious question is whether the Department of Defense, which relied on U.S.-flag vessels to carry 90 percent of the supplies in support of Desert Stonn/Desert Shield, will now speak up for the Merchant Marine as a critical part of our national security capability. In the 32 years I have been involved in these issues, I am not aware of the Department of Defense ever taking the position that government financial support of the U.S. merchant marine is essential for national security. They are not saying it now, and I do not think we can expect them to say it in the future. The reality is that DOD is a strong and powerful competitor for decreasing budget dollars. In order to build their own military hardware, including their own sealift capability, they cannot be expected to ask for budget dollars to go to our industry when they might get that money for themselves. Department of Defense plan- ning documents that I have seen estimate that DOD will spend $15 .1 billion between fiscal year 1995 and fiscal year 2004 simply to enhance their sealift capacity from their approximately 12 million square feet of lift capacity today to approximately 20 million square feet by 2004. The square footage cost for DOD's new sealift will be about 10 times the cost per square foot on the 50 ships that would receive support under the proposed Maritime Security Program, which is a modest $100 million a year over 10 years for 50 U.S.-flag vessels. Am I unhappy with the Department of Defense? No. They are a very important customer of ours in the Alaska trade. Just because the U.S.-flag fleet carries DOD cargoes critical for the success of any military conflict, we cannot expect DOD to carry our water. DOD will plead the case for their department budget. We must plead our case ourselves to the Congress. The United States Congress must make a new determination that a U.S.-flag fleet employing trained, skilled, loyal and patriotic American seagoing labor is essential to our national security. That determination is the job of Congress-not DOD. Part of the genius of our system is that elected civilians command the military, and it is only Congress that can declare war or fund our security needs. J ere seem to be two key points that are emerging rom this new revolution and from this new conservative Congress: ( 1) Basic economic activity must live or die "If the Congress U.S.-flag carriers free-market basis the U.S. flag, then must be willing to market principles what it wants.'' �JUNE1995 by free market rules; and (2) if the government mandates something, it must pay for it and, conversely, the government will not mandate unless it does pay for it. I agree that the U.S.-flag international carriers must live or die in a free market-which is a global market. There is no justification in a free market for privately owned U.S. maritime companies remaining under the U.S. flag unless the free market system rewards them sufficientJy to do so. They can choose to remain under the U.S. flag if it is the most profitable and responsible choice for their shareholders. Therefore, if the Congress wants our private U.S.flag carriers to choose on a freemarket basis to remain under the U.S. flag, then the Congress must be willing to pay on free-market principles a fair price for what it wants. I understand and sympathize with the plight of the Congress. They are well meaning people who want to get government spending under control. I applaud · the efforts to get rid of unnecessary federal expenditures and to not mandate acts or responsibilities for which the government will not pay. But in spite of the past CDS and ODS payments and the proposed Maritime Security payments, the U.S. Merchant Marine returns far more to the American treasury in tax revenues than the cost of those programs.* With the construction payments stopped in 1980, and ODS about to expire, the question now before the Congress is whether the federal government is willing to back up its mandates in the future for the hiring of U.S. nationals and the right to take our ships in the event of a national emergency. Congress has decided not to put unfunded mandates on the states even though states have the ability to tax their citizens and face no competition for their existence. How then could Congress possibly continue to mandate private U.S.-flag carriers to incur non-market justified expenditures and obligations for their vessels in the name of na*[Editor' s note: CDS means construction differential program, which provided funding to shipbuilders to compensate for the higher cost of constructing ships in U.S. yards. The last grant issued under this program was in 1980. ODS stands for operating differential subsidy, which U.S.flag operators receive to cover ex penses related to crew cost, maintenance and insurance. Finally, Maritime Security refers to the proposed maritime revitalization program being debated in Congress.] nts our private choose on a remain under he Congress ay on/reef air price for SEAFARERS LOG "The Maritime Security Program must be passed quickly, or there is no question that our international carriers will reflag." tional security without Congress paying for such mandates? After all, in contrast to the states, we are taxpayers, not tax collectors, and we must compete to survive. Unfunded mandates are far more devastating to us than to the states. Now I can fully understand why the government has mandated that the U.S.-flag carriers hire skilled U.S. seagoing labor, because a pool of such labor is absolutely essential for our national security. And I can understand why the government has mandated that a U.S.-flag vessel must be available to the Department of Defense in time of national emergency. Again, it is required by national security. Could we do another Desert Storm with no U.S.-flag shipping available? There are very few military excursions where the enemy pays you the courtesy of sitting quietly for eight months waiting for you to put all your supplies and troops on the ground. There are very few military excursions where there is no threat to your supply line from those who do not agree with your military activities. We will not always be as lucky as we were in Desert Storm. Can we really afford to give up our supply capability? If Congress chooses not to provide future support for U.S.-flag international carriers, what would be the response of a future secretary of Defense or chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff calJed to the White House by a president who asks: "As a matter of national security, I have determined we must intervene in Country X. What are our military options?" If we have no U.S. merchant marine capability, no reliable long-term supply system, and no trained U.S. mariners, it would seem that the only options are either to not protect our national interests in Country X, or go in and blow up everything as fast as we can with bombers. Anything that involves long-term supply becomes a meaningless option. And we all know how things work: the option you do not plan for or prepare for is one likely to occur. If our national security requires the option of planning and implementing military scenarios that require secure, long-term supply efforts, even efforts enjoying the support of most nations, such as the one in Desert Storm, or more controversial ones, such as we experienced in Vietnam, then the government must be willing to pay for the American labor pool it mandates as essential to our national security, and to pay for the right to use and have available U.S.-flag vessels in the event of emergency. That is what the free market is all about. This is not subsidy. This is the U.S. government, as a shipper, paying for the shipping services it requires. If Congress is going to mandate these requirements, it must put its money where its mouth is and provide fair compensation for the mandated activity. When we look at some other things the government spends money on, like the tobacco program which is one component of the multi-billion annual farm support system, it is a different situation. I do not believe that growing tobacco or smoking tobacco is a vital component of our national security. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention attributes 400,000 deaths each year in the United States to smoking cigarettes. The annual cost to our economy because of tobacco use is estimated in excess of $100 billion each year, consisting of $50 billion in direct medical costs, and $50 biJlion in lost productivity according to the U.S. Office of Technology Assessment. The government loses no money in its price support and loan programs for tobacco farmers. But I suggest to those of you who must make the hard choices on where the government should mandate and provide funds, you should at least treat an industry that is essential for national security as favorably as one that creates the product that kilJs 400,000 of our citizens a year and costs us $100 billion annually in medical and productivity losses. If the current U.S.-flag carrier must Ii ve by global market forces, the carrier will survive-but not necessarily under the U.S. flag. The question is whether the government can make it possible for the industry to survive under the U.S. flag, which is clearly what the operators would prefer. market. If the Department of Defense wants to count on commercial sealift capacity of U.S.flag vessels as a part of its assured sealift capability, then it should pay the fair market price for reserving that availability. That is how a free market works. If a shipper reserves space, the shipper pays for it-just as you pay for a hotel room you've reserved, whether or not you sleep in it. And just as we pay for fire trucks and firefighters, whether or not there is a fire to be fought. If DOD wants the continuing right to use a U.S.-flag vessel, it should pay for that right under long-term contracts, just as would any other shipper under a multiyear service contract. Would the payment by the government of $100 million a year for 50 U.S.flag vessels be a subsidy to the operators? Of course not. It is undisputed that the cost to the operator for choosing U.S.-flag vessels is a conservative $3 million a year per vessel. That is $150 million annually in costs for the 50 ships. And that is before you consider the market risks of losing substantial commercial operations if the ships are taken for some period of time, that your vessels and crews may be blown up in a war zone, and that the government is a notoriously slow-paying customer. Obviously, if you were w1iting a service contract on market principles covering the 50 vessels, you would charge much more than $100 million a year. At $100 million a year, the government as a shipper is receiving the right to transportation services at below market and noncompensatory levels. The only subsidy here is from the operators to the government. Similarly, if the Congress believes, as do I, that there is a national security imperative that U.S.-flag carriers employ skilled American labor who want to assure that their sons and daughters, "If DOD wants the continuing right to use a U.S.-flag vessel, it should pay for that right under longterm contracts." 1e Maritime Security Program must be passed quickly, or there is no question that our international carriers will reflag and move increasingly to non-American labor. They will have no choice. But long term I do not think that the Maritime Security Program is the complete answer. An historic problem with operating differential subsidy that would continue under the proposed Maritime Security Program is that both programs mix the national-security-imposed mandate of employing a skilled pool of American labor at domestic employment benefit levels with the government's additional mandate thatU.S.-flag vessels, as well as this pool oflabor, must be made available to the government in the event of national emergency. Well, let's consider doing this as you really should in a free J: as well as ours, will not die on the battlefield for lack of delivery of critical supplies, then Congress should consider whether the Department of Defense should be required to pay directly to American maritime labor members that amount of their annual compensation, benefits and retirement that exceeds worldmarket prices and assures the existence of the necessary labor pool. Then the U.S.-flag operator can pay American seamen a world market price. The government pays directly for the active and reserve members of our armed forces to be trained and ready and then hopes they need never be used. The same principle should apply to our merchant seamen. This pool of skilled American labor is a mandated national security requirement of benefit to the government, not of benefit directly to the operator competing in the global market. The government should pay for this benefit directly to the people providing that benefit, and that is American seagoing labor. That is the way a free market works. We are willing in this industry to live by the free market and to recognize that there is no free lunch. The government must-also accept the free market and not expect a f!~e lunch. ow, as my companies are domestic U.S.-flag carriers, I want to comment on the Jones Act. Jones Act carriers receive no funding from the government. Some say we are protected in that foreign carriers are not allowed to compete in domestic transport. That is true. Foreign trucking companies cannot bring their trucks and drivers here to compete against American truckers. And the railroads cannot bring in foreign labor to compete in domestic transport, just as foreign air carriers with foreign crews cannot carry passengers and cargo in our domestic system. The bottom line is that domestic transportation involves jobs inside America, and those jobs should be performed by Americans. That is what the Jones Act provides. And that is what our national labor and immigration laws require for every industry in America. If we ever reach the point that America cannot afford to have our own citizens perform our own basic industry activities inside our own country, then we are in trouble well beyond whether or not we should have a Jone Act. So if our Congress ever becomes committed to cutting costs domestically for the benefit of shippers by throwing Americans out of domestic transport jobs in shipping, trucking, rail or aviation, then Congress should do the same thing for the taxpayers. Throw those high-cost Americans out of American government jobs. I suspect that 90 percent of the jobs performed by government employees could be performed cheaper and as efficiently if we brought in low-cost foreign labor to perform those functions . I think we would be crazy to either abolish the Jones Act or bring foreigners in to perform jobs-private or governmentalin our domestic economy when there are Americans who are ready, willing and able to perform those jobs. N n summary, I say this: Our industry, as we have known it, is just about dead, and the only emergency first aid is quick and immediate passage of the Maritime Security Program legislation. But long term the government must learn, as we are learning, that there is no free lunch and the government must pay for what it wants in the free market. And there is another principle that is at the heart of conservatism and should be heeded by our new conservative Congress. Do not throw out ways of doing things that are cost effective, time tested and work well, particularly when the alternatives are unknown, untested and dangerous. The conservative thing to do is to support full funding for the U.S.-flag carriers. I 13 �14 JUNE1995 SEAFARERS LOG Transporting approximately one million tourists and "everything from diapers and groceries to hundreds of horses" is what keeps Seafarers who operate the 11 Arnold Transit Company ferries to and from Mackinac Island, Mich. busy, according to Captain Paul Allers. Allers has been a union member since 1956, when the SIU was selected as the bargaining unit by those seamen who operate the ferries. He notes that the ferriesself-propelled freight barges which depart from the cities of St. Ignace and Mackinaw City, Mich.-are the most popular mode of transportation to and from the historic island. They not only transport passengers; they also bring everything needed by the island's residents. Transportation of materials on the freight barges increases during the summer months when the year-round population of 550 soars to more than 5,000, thanks to seasonal residents and tourists. No Motor Vehicles Located between Michigan's upper and lower peninsulas in the Straits of Mackinac, the 12.5 square mile island is accessible only by boat or airplane. While some tourists travel on their personal boats and others by air, the majority of visitors to Mackinac Island rely on the SIU-crewed ferries to get them to the village, where cottages dating back to the 1800s have been perfectly preserved. The captain stated two SIUcrewed freight boats-the Corsair and Beaver-regularly bring supplies to Mackinac Island from the mainland. Among the items shipped are food, beverages, bicycles and horses. Seafarers also transport "thousands of gallons of oil" to the island which are used for heating. Allers noted that every spring, the ferries bring about 600-700 horses to the island and transport them back to St. Ignace for boarding at the end of the peak tourist season. Approximately 24 horses stay year round for use by the island's permanent residents. While on the island, transportation is by bicycle, foot or horsedrawn carriage. There are no cars (except for three fire trucks) allowed, so horses are used to transport most of the people and freight to and from the SIU-crewed ferries as well as around the island. TOP LEFT Captain Ray Wilkens prepares to navigate the Huron back across the Straits of Mackinac to pick up passengers waiting at the dock in St. Ignace, Mich. Record-Breaking Summer During the peak tourist season of May through October, the ferries cross the Straits of Mackinac to the island from Mackinaw City and St. Ignace every half hour. "We are tremendously busy in the summer," Allers told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG. "Last year was our busiest ever. We started out early this year and think it will be another recordbreaking year as far as the number of tourists goes. But we all enjoy it. The visitors are really nice people," he said. Allers noted that tourism to the island has increased dramatically. Lake Michigan Mackinaw City X:~ \ LEFT After reaching their destination of Mackinaw City, Mich., Purser Ron Halberg (left) and Engineer Robert Horn move the gangway. Last year's figures show about one million people visited Mackinac Island during its peak season. Because of the mild winter along the Great Lakes, the ferries did not stop service to the island until the first week of February. The ferries were back on the water by March 24, the shortest winter break that Allers can recall in all his years with the company. Years Bring Changes Lake Huron DMackinac Island Bois Blank sland c:::> ABOVE Captain Paul Allers (right) and Mate James Webster stand outside the pilothouse as passengers leave the Arnold upon arrival at Mackinac Island, Mich. Commenting on the changes he has seen in ferry transportation to Mackinac Island in his maritime career, Allers said, "When I first started out, we had steamboats where we had to shovel coal into their engines to keep them going, and this month we are getting a jet-powered catamaran in service. Things sure have changed since I first started," he said. The company will add a new catamaran, the Straits Express, to its fleet early this month. Allers stated it is the only jet-powered boat in the country and is reported to be even faster than two of its sister ships, the Mackinnc Express and Island Express, which can transport passengers between the mainland cities and the island in 15 minutes. The catamarans are considered to be the most luxurious passenger ferries operating on the Great Lakes. They have comfortable, theater-style seating with booths and tables. They also are equipped with glass-enclosed lounges and open-air decks. The other vessels in the ferry fleet-the Heron, Mohawk, Straits of Mackinac II, Ottawa, Chippewa and Algomah-provide a 35-minute ride to and from the island. "Captain Ray Wilkens and I Steady Workload For LNG Leo Crew Keeps Vessel Sailing On Busy Schedule Due to the LNG Leo's continuous service between Kobe, Japan and Arnn, Indonesia, work performed by crewmembers is as arduous as it is routine, according to QMED Paul Pagano. Preparing the Leo for the shipyard are (from left) AB Darren Pagano, who recently signed off the LNG tanker Collins, AB Mustari Lalong and Recertified Bosun Philip Parisi. to attend upgrading classes at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md., has sailed aboard several of Energy Transportation Corp.' s (ETC) LNG tankers during his four-year career with the SIU. "We work really hard to keep the ships in top form because we are constantly on the go," stated the QMED, who currently is enrolled in a welding course at the school. "The work is predictable but very necessary if the ship is to continue to function properly." Among the duties handled by the engine department are basic welding, preventive maintenance on off-line machinery, bilge work, changing oil, pulling strainers and securing and checking valves. While routine maintenance is performed on a continuing basis at sea, LNG tankers return to the shipyard four times each year. Leo steward depatment members gather in front of the salad There is a lot of hard work that goes into preparbar. They are (from left) SA Jamil Shaibi, Chief Cook Glenn ing the tankers for the shipyard, said Pagano. Williams, SA Jose Iglesia Jr. and Steward/Baker Henry Jones "We do as much as possible before we arrive in Jr. Not pictured is SA Gloria Melluish. have been here since the first SIU contract, and not only have our boats changed, but so have the contracts," he added. 'The union has really advanced a lot in the way it provides benefits to the members," Allers added. He noted that the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. is very important for all Seafarers, and he constantly encourages his crews to upgrade in the off-season. He stated several of the crewmembers who work aboard the ferries recently took advantage of the 4hour radar operations course when it was offered by Piney Point instructors at the Algonac, Mich. union hall. Arnold Transit began operations in 1878 with one ferry carrying supplies to lumber camps on the island. The SIU represents the captains, mates, pursers and engineers aboard the company's 11 boats. QMED Paul Pagano performs some preventive maintenance-greasing winches-aboard the LNG Leo. the shipyard. Shortly before the vessel arrives, the captain is notified of the work scheduled to take place. If we can begin the work with the materials we have on board, we perform these extra duties after all regular maintenance is finished. This is what we call 'shipyard work,"' the Piney Point graduate added. The ETC tanker-along with its sister ships (LNG Aquarius, LNG Aries, LNG Capricorn, LNG Gemini, LNG Libra, LNG Taurus and LNG Virgo )-shuttle liquified natural gas between Arun and Kobe every 14 days. �SEAFARERS LOG JUNE-1995 Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Trip Reliefs **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C New York Philadelphia Baltimore Norfolk Mobile New Orleans Jacksonville San Francisco Wilmington Seattle Puerto Rico Honolulu Houston St. Louis Piney Point Algonac Totals 22 3 5 18 7 22 20 20 18 27 7 4 21 1 3 1 199 DECK DEPARTMENT 1 24 19 1 8 0 8 0 6 28 4 4 10 13 2 4 10 17 18 18 36 16 27 6 1 6 4 18 20 1 6 3 241 1 2 4 3 5 17 21 8 6 0 2 9 2 11 13 14 15 11 5 13 24 20 2 0 2 1 3 1 157 4 0 0 50 10 21 16 4 159 8 0 1 8 1 59 6 3 61 9 *chaiiged by ltuif!pendence Day holiday 6 II Wednesday: July 5, August 9 23 31 39 31 47 3 3 10 5 16 33 8 8 50 23 1 3 43 14 7 5 5 0 0 0 0 2 26 Piney Point · New York Wednesday, July 5*; Tuesday, August 8 22 17 49 8 1 1 1 2 July & August 1995 Membership Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, Inland Waters Monday: July 3, August 7 APRIL 16 - MAY 15, 1995 Port 15 s 0 0 0 73 32 48 9 4 27 43 1 51 1 3 Philadelphia Baltimore 0 8 Thursday: July 6, August 10 8 Thursday: July 6, August 10 Norfolk 5 Jacksonville 12 7 10 10 Thursday: July 6, August 10 Algonac Friday: July 7, August 11 19 Houston Monday: July 10, August 14 0 0 0 New Orleans Tuesday: July 11, August 15 0 8 4 375 424 104 Mobile Wednesday: July 12, August 16 San Francisco Port New York Philadelphia Baltimore Norfolk Mobile New Orleans Jackson ville San Francisco Wilmington Seattle Puerto Rico Honolulu Houston 16 12 1 1 1 2 8 9 1 0 8 10 13 8 0 14 1 1 6 14 13 9 6 16 16 11 5 5 8 7 12 13 5 2 14 10 1 1 7 11 4 4 2 0 15 0 1 3 0 2 12 St. Louis 0 Piney Point Algonac 3 1 4 0 2 Totals 1 112 141 22 13 3 2 0 27 Port New York Philadelphia Baltimore Norfolk Mobile New Orleans Jackson ville San Francisco Wilmington Seattle Puerto Rico Honolulu Houston St. Louis Piney Point Algonac Totals ENGINE DEPARTMENT 7 0 9 1 0 1 0 3 6 2 6 5 4 0 2 1 2 4 3 10 11 31 14 9 4 6 9 2 4 0 132 9 4 9 0 0 0 2 0 l 2 2 11 4 6 4 7 6 0 1 6 2 1 0 3 0 0 1 87 0 12 36 6 3 0 0 Port New York 6 1 Philadelphia 1 Baltimore 1 Norfolk 1 Mobile 4 New Orleans Jacksonville 1 San Francisco 6 5 Wilmington 11 Seattle Puerto Rico 3 8 Honolulu 1 Houston 0 St. Louis 1 Piney Point 0 Algonac 10 11 17 16 12 20 16 22 7 3 16 0 8 12 10 9 10 3 92 0 1 0 5 5 12 2 11 9 2 0 5 12 1 12 1 4 1 109 6 10 Thursday: July 6, August 10 3 2 7 3 Honolulu Friday: July 14, August 18 24 11 5 5 26 7 26 3 6 258 13 1 0 14 45 6 39 24 3 2 15 2 3 4 1 1 2 5 1 27 3 11 1 0 3 0 55 0 3 0 0 2 0 5 6 2 3 10 11 11 21 17 9 67 21 27 7 14 16 6 7 9 4 2 2 10 9 19 5 2 3 4 6 3 1 0 2 2 2 2 0 0 0 0 13 1 0 14 0 7 10 0 9 0 0 0 2 0 52 264 150 47 0 15 72 0 0 2 1 6 2 30 2 7 9 3 9 24 35 38 2 3 0 87 0 0 1 1 0 46 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 21 4 1 0 0 3 6 0 2 0 3 0 4 4 7 De~artments 493 711 233 369 6 3 6 10 8 10 0 0 0 1 3 15 13 1 2 6 0 3 21 2 0 21 43 7 1 0 0 4 0 0 24 18 7 35 19 19 34 11 79 36 20 14 174 12 3 0 0 5 13 7 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 1 0 104 42 112 0 0 48 0 485 0 3 2 380 424 101 170 955 12317 586 13 0 * "Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. ** "Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. Seattle San Juan St. Louis Friday: July 14, August 18 Duluth July 12, August 16 Wednesday~ Jerse City Wednesday: July 19, August 23 New Bedford Tuesday: July 18, August 22 Each port's meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals KEVIN COOPER Please contact your brother, Bill Cooper, at 64 Grant A venue, Piscataway, NJ 08854; telephone (908) 752-6134. GARY DAHL Please call you father, Don, at (301) 423-3612. FRIENDS OF AB GERARD (JERRY) McCARTHY Anyone who knew Jerry and sailed with him on the Sgt. Matej Kocak from February 2 to February 23, 1995, prior to his passing away, please contact his wife, Janet, at (904) 375-0004. CARL ROBERT PARDY Please contact your cousin, Edward Kramer, at 74-11 58th Avenue, Elmhurst, NY 11373. 36 15 8 12 2 12 *changed by Paul Hall birthday holiday 4 4 8 5 0 Friday: July 21, August 25 Wilmington 31 24 24 l3 6 20 0 4 0 212 0 Monday: July 17; Tuesday, August 22* 8 1 7 18 13 5 0 1 4 1 3 1 1 7 2 50 Totals Totals All 5 4 12 15 25 17 35 13 1 1 10 0 242 65 0 0 0 1 0 38 3 10 2 0 144 12 3 33 0 10 8 2 2 3 0 0 0 31 24 6 14 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 8 0 10 2 0 0 0 1 0 2 5 0 4 3 6 23 Thursday: July 13, August 17 Notice VIRGINIA-BASED MERCHANT MARINE VETS MEET MONTHLY The Hampton Roads, Virginia Chapter of the American Merchant Marine Veterans, Wives, Orphans and Survivors conducts its business meetings at 5 p.m. on the fourth Friday of each month in the Veterans' Room of the War Memorial Museum of Virginia, 9285 Warwick Blvd. at Huntington Park in Newport News, Va. Meeting dates for the remainder of the year are as follows: June 23, July 28, August 25, September 22, October 27, November 24 and December 22. Anyone interested in joining the chapter or attending an upcoming meeting may contact retired SIU member Max Simerly at P.O. Box 5721, Newport News, VA 23605-0721; telephone (804) 247-1656. (Simerly is one of several retired Seafarers who belongs to the chapter.) - �16 SEAFARERS LOG JUNE1995 Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes Seafarers International Union Directory Michael Sacco President John Fay Secretary-Treasurer Joseph Sacco Executive Vice President Augustin Tellez Vice President Contracts George McCartney Vice President West Coast Roy A. "Buck" Mercer Vice President Government Services Jack Caffey Vice President Atlantic Coast Byron Kelley Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters DeanCorgey Vice President Gulf Coast HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 (30 I) 899-067 5 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr. Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 BALTIMORE 1216 E. Baltimore St. Baltimore, MD 21202 (410) 327-4900 DULUTH 705 Medical Arts Building Duluth, MN 55802 (218) 722-4110 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St. Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St. Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St Jac.ksonviUe, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JERSEY CITY 99 Montgomery St. Jersey City, NJ 07302 (201)435-9424 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy. Mobile, AL 36605 (334) 478-0916 NEW BEDFORD 48 Union St New Bedford, MA 02740 (508) 997-5404 NEW ORLEANS 630 Jackson Ave. New Orleans, LA 70130 (504) 529-7546 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St. Norfolk, VA 23510 (804) 622-1892 PHILADELPHIA 2604S. 4St Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O.Box75 Piney Point, MD 20674 (30 I) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 2 West Dixie llighway Dania, FL 33004 (305) 921-5661 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St. San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Government Services Division (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16V2 Santurce, PR 00907 (809) 721-4033 SEATTLE 2505 First Ave. Seattle, WA 98121 (206) 441-1960 ST.LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave. St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave. Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 APRIL 16- MAY 15, 1995 CL-Company/Lakes L-Lakes NP-Non Priority *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac 0 19 4 0 10 3 0 4 1 0 10 15 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP DECK DEPARTMENT 0 23 1 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 5 5 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 1 9 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP 0 33 7 0 16 3 0 8 0 0 35 27 Totals All Departments 0 43 23 0 37 7 0 92 * ''Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. ** "Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. 37 Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters APRIL 16 - MAY 15, 1995 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Cl~ C Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals 3 0 1 39 2 1 0 0 5 0 6 11 TOTAL SHIPPED AU Groups Class A Class B Class C DECK DEPARTMENT 6 0 0 0 0 0 16 0 0 27 4 0 49 4 0 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 2 0 0 1 0 7 0 0 0 0 0 9 1 0 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 3 2 0 3 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Cl~ C 12 2 0 3 4 22 0 6 11 0 32 12 43 1 1 0 0 0 14 0 0 2 3 3 0 0 3 1 1 4 0 2 3 0 9 10 59 3 17 60 4 4 68 17 Totals All Departments * ''Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. ** "Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. 56 45 0 1 1 0 9 0 10 0 0 0 l 2 1 0 0 4 0 1 0 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 2 4 4 7 44 2 0 12 0 10 2 1 Are You Missing Important Mail? In order to ensure that each active SIU member and pensioner receives a copy of the Seafarers LOG each month-as well as other important mail such as W-2 forms, pension and health insurance checks and bulletins or notices-a correct home address must be on file with the union. If you have moved recently or feel that you are not getting your union mail, please use the form on this page to update your home address. copy of the LOG delivered to you, if you have changed your address, or if your name or address is misprinted or incomplete, please complete the form and send it to: Seafarers International Union Address Correction Department 5201 Au th Way Camp Springs, MD 207 46 Your home address is your permanent address, and this is where all official union documents will be mailed (unless otherwise specified). If you are getting more than one r------------------------------------------------------------, HOME ADDRESS FORM {PLEASE PRINT) 6195 Name Social Security No. _ _ _ I _ _ _ I _ _ __ D D Book No.~-------- Pensioner Active SIU D Other _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ ___ This will be my permanent address for all official union mailings. This address should remain in the union file unless otherwise changed by me personally. (Signed) _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ ------------------------------------------------------------ �JUNE1995 SEAFARERS LOS T his month, the Seafarers Pension Plan announces the retirements of 24 SIU members who have completed long and successful careers as merchant mariners. Seventeen of those signing off sailed in the deep sea division, six navigated the inland waterways and one worked on Great Lakes vessels. Fifteen of the retiring Seafarers served in the U.S. military-seven in the Navy, six in the Anny. and one each in the Air Force and Marine Corps. Five of those beginning their shoreside years graduated from recertification courses at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point. Md. John T. Adams, Robert C. Gorbea, Albert C. Pickford and Ulus S. Veach Jr. successfully completed the bosun recertification course; John A. Pratt received his recertification in the steward program. The oldest retiring members this month are Clarence W. Benoit, 72, Gerardo Lopez, 71, and Giuseppe Boccanfuso. 70. On this page, the Seafarers LOG presents brief biographical accounts of this month• s pensioners. DEEP SEA JOHNT. . ADAMS, 55, graduated from the Andrew Furuseth Training ==--="----.!....!: ' School in 1959 and signed on with the Seafarers in the port of New York. Brother Adams sailed in the deck department and completed the bosun recertification course in 1975 at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. From 1957 to 1959, he served in the U.S. Army. Born in New York, Brother Adams now resides in Florida. CURTISL. BRODNAX,62, joined the SIU in 1962 in the port of New York. The Virginia native sailed in both the steward and deck departments. He served in the U.S. Army from 1953 to 1955. Brother Brodnax continues to live in Virginia. 1-~-~I LEVERNE E. BUCHANAN,65, graduated from the Andrew Furuseth Training School in 1958 and joined the union in the port of Baltimore. Brother Buchanan sailed in the deck department. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1948 to 1952. Born in Pennsylvania, Brother Buchanan has retired to Florida. To Our New Pensioners • • . Thanks for a Job Well Done Each month in the Seafarers LOG, the names of SIU members who recently have become pensioners appear with a brief biographical sketch. These men and women have served the maritime industry well. and the SIU and all their union brothers and sisters wish them happiness and health in the days ahead. RAYMOND R. CRANE, • 65,began sailing with the SIU in 1953 from the port of New York. Brother Crane shipped in the engine department and upgraded frequently at the Lundeberg School. He served in the U.S. Army from 1948 to 1951. Brother Crane was born and raised in Pennsylvania and continues to live there. WILLIAM S. DILLON, 65, joined the union in 1962 in the port of Boston. Ana-~----~- tive of Massachusetts, Brother Dillon sailed in the engine department and upgraded frequently at the Lundeberg School. He served in the U.S. Army from 1952 to 1955. Brother Dillon has retired to Florida. r----,:""""""""""="---. ROBERT C.GORBEA,65, signed on with the Seafarers in 1951 in his native New York. Brother Gorbea sailed as a member of the deck department and successfully finished the bosun recertification course at the Lundeberg School in 1974. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1946 to 1950. Brother Gorbea continues to reside in New York. .------____, HAZEL JOHNSON, 62, graduated from the Andrew Furuseth Training ======= School in 1961 and joined the SIU in the port of New York. Brother Johnson sailed in the steward department and upgraded to chief cook at the Lundeberg School in 1978. Born in South Carolina, he now lives in Delaware. JUNIORN. LARSON, 66, started his sailing career with the union in 1977 from the port of Duluth, Minn. in the Great Lakes division. Shipping as a member of the engine department, Brother Larson transferred to deep sea vessels and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1945 to 1952. Born in Wiscon- sin, Brother Larson continues to live there. GERARDO LOPEZ, 71, began sailing with the union in 1973 from the port of ,;v. New Orleans. Brother Lopez shipped in the steward department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. Born in Mexico, Brother Lopez has retired to Louisiana. AGLIWD. Born and raised in California, Brother Saburomaru continues to live there. JACKD. SMITHEY, 66,a graduate of the Andrew Furuseth Training School in 1958,began sailing with the SIU from the port of Baltimore. A member of the engine department, Brother Smithey attended upgrading courses at the Lundeberg School. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1944 to 1947. Born in West Virginia, Brother Smithey now lives in California. WILLIAM K.MACDONALD, 60, signed ..-~==---, ULUS S. on with the VEACH Seafarers in 1960 in the JR., 65, signed on port of Detroit. He with the began sailing in the deck departSeafarers in ment aboard Great Lakes ves~· 1948 in the sels and later transferred his flt '. port of New ·.n ' York. The membership to the deep sea North Carolina native sailed in division. Born in Scotland, Brother MacDonald makes his the deck department. Brother Veach upgraded at the Lunhome in New York. deberg School and graduated from the bosun recertification r--~~~~ ALBERT course there in 1982. He served C. PICKin the U.S. Army from 1953 to FORD,67, 1955. Brother Veach continues joined the to reside in North Carolina. SIU in 1970 in the port JERRY E. WOOD, 63, began of New sailing with the union in 1949 "'"·~·---' York. Sailfrom the port of Norfolk, Va. as !!!!l!!!!!!!!!~~~!!!!!!!!!!I ing in the a member of the steward departdeck department, he upgraded ment. Born in Virgini~ at the Lundeberg School and Brother Wood has retired to his completed the bosun recertificahome state. tion course there in 1984. From 1946 to 1948 he served in the U.S. Navy. A native of STANLEY New York, Brother Pickford ZIELEWcurrently resides in West VirSKI,68, ginia. joined the Seafarers in 1970 in the JOHNA. port of New PRATT,65, York. Sailbegan sailing as a ing with the member of the engine departMarine ment, he upgraded to QMED at Cooks and the Lundeberg School. Born in Stewards in Poland, Brother Zielewski be1952 from came a naturalized U.S. citizen. the port of He makes his home in Florida. San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU' s Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District INLAND (AGLIWD). Brother Pratt graduated from the steward CLARENCE recertification course at the Lundeberg School in 1989. He BENOIT, served in the U.S. Navy from 72, signed 1947 to 1952. A native of New on with the Hampshire, Brother Pratt has SIU in 1956 retired to Washington. in the port of Houston. Boatman _,..-____, HARUYUKI Benoit became a licensed master SABUROand pilot, sailing primarily on MARU,67, G&H Towing vessels. From joined the 1943 to 1945, he served in the Marine U.S. Marine Corps. Born in Cooks and Texas, Boatman Benoit has Stewards in retired to his native state. 1955 in the port of San GIUSEPPE BOCCANFUSO, Francisco, before that union 70, joined the Seafarers in 1979 merged with the SIU' s w. 17 in the port of Wilmington, Calif. He sailed in the steward department as a chief cook. Born in Italy, Boatman Boccanfuso cun:ently resides in California. ALEXANDER W. ESCHUK, 69,began sailing with the SIU in 1979 from the port of Baltimore. He shipped in the engine department, retiring as a tug engineer. Born in New York, Boatman Eschuk now lives in Florida. .----jiiiiiiiiiiji~--, RICHARD J.GIMPEL,66, signed on with the union in 1963 in the port of Detroit, sailing as a member of the deck department. As a member of the inland division, Boatman Gimpel served as a union trustee for the Great Lakes Tug & Dredge Pension Plan from 1987 to December 1994. He served in the U. S. Navy from 1946 to 1947. Born in Minnesota, Boatman Gimpel makes his home in Aorida. MARKL• GRAY,62, joined the Seafarers in 1961 in the port of Baltimore. Boatman Gray, a llL-..o""'--~ licensed operator, sailed primarily for Express Marine as a captain. He served in the U.S. Army from 1953 to 1955. Born and raised in North Carolina, Boatman Gray has retired to his home state. CHARLES L. ROLLINS, 61, began his sailing career with the SIU in 1961 from the port of Norfolk, Va. He sailed in the engine department as an engineer and in the deck department as an AB and relief captain. A native of Washington, D. C .• Boatman Rollins now resides in Virginia. GREAT LAKES JAMESL. WOODROW,65, signed on with the union in 1975 in the port of Alpena, Mich. From 1947 to 1956, he served in the U.S. Air Force. Brother Woodrow has retired to his native Michigan. HELP SUPPORT SPAD ..,. �18 SEAFARERS LOG JUNE1995 Gov't Services Division Seafarers Aid in Conversion of Niagara Falls Members of the SIU' s Government Services Division are assisting in the conversion of the former U.S. Navy ship Niagara Falls, acquired by the Military Sealift Command's Pacific Fleet (MSCP AC) last fall. ThevesselhasbeenintheNorshipco shipyard in Norfolk, Va. since last November, undergoing a $22 million overhaul. It is scheduled to leave the yard in August and will operate as a stores ship, supplying other military vessels. "It's a full conversion," noted Bosun Richard Martinez. "Work has already started on the [underway replenishment] winches and stations. The crews' quarters are being modified, and new elevators for the storage holds are being installed." The Niagara Falls' engineering plant also is undergoing repairs and maintenance. The vessel "is like a big Safeway grocery store," said Roy "Buck" Mercer, vice president of the SIU' s Government Services Division. "It pulls alongside a Navy ship at sea, then transfers supplies. It can resupply two or three vessels at once." During the refurbishing, approximately 10 Seafarers are working aboard the Niagara Falls, which was built by the National Steel and Shipbuilding Company during the late 1960s. "We're not doing a lot of typical deck work, but there are so many other tasks to do to get ready for restocking the ship," said Martinez. "As the [shipyard workers] complete jobs, we start putting things away, reordering supplies, putting things back together. Some of it is hard to explain, but we basically pick up where the yard leaves off. "We also do more routine work," continued the 30-year member of the Seafarers. "For instance, there'sahangaronherethat carries helicopters. We're going to [sandblast] it and paint it." · FamlllarWlth Conversions Martinez is one of several Seafarers on the Niagara Falls who has worked aboard other vessels during their respective conversions from Navy ships to MSCPAC craft. Steward Roslito Toledo is another. "It's a lot of work, but I enjoy it," said Toledo, who joined the union 11 years ago. "I'm working with supply officers, picking up requisitions and materials, working in the warehouse and running a lot of errands. Eventually we'll load her and clean her up." Toledoaddedthattheshipyard workers occasionally doublecheck with crewmembers "to make sure the equipment is installed properly and in the right location. They know we 're familiarwithit." Bosun Arthur Luellen, who led the deck crew when the ship , \•t J Bosun Arthur Luellen (left) and Chief Mate Tony Boudouin take part in ceremonies in Guam last September, during which the Niagara Falls was transferred to the Military Sealift Command.-Pacific Fleet. was brought to Norfolk, and AB John Albers have a lot of experience sailing aboard MSCPAC ships. Both deck department members have sailed aboard MSCPAC tankers, integrated tug/barges and oceanographic survey ships. They also have been involved in ship conversions. "We took the ship from the Navy on September 23, in Guam," recalled Albers. "From there, we sailed to Pearl Harbor and San Diego to discharge cargo, then went through the Panama Canal and to Norfolk." Albers added that the 30 or so licensed and unlicensed crewmembers working aboard the Niagara Falls during the conversion have maintained a busy schedule. "Nobody's staying on the ship, of course, but we're working up to 12 hours a day, six days a week," he said. "Personally, I've been helping to convert cabinets in The USNS Niagara Falls, a fast stores ship built in the late 1960s, is undergoing a $22 million conversion the storage areas, moving them and in Norfolk, Va. It is expected to return to service in August of this year. standing gangway watch," among Company: RMS Foundation, which operates Queen Mary Seaport Facilities: Located on 55 acres of Long Beach, Calif. waterfront, the Seaport includes the Hotel Queen Mary, along with numerous shops, restaurants and other attractions UIW members at Queen Mary: Involved in virtually all facets of hotel and restaurant operation Reservations: For more information or to make reservations, call (310) 435-3511 That's a fact: The Queen Mary is included on the National Register of Historic Places The Queen Mary Seaport is Long Beach, Calif. 's top tourist attraction. It features the famed Hotel Queen Mary, the permanently docked former ocean liner now operating as a 365-stateroom hotel. When Seafarers visit the Seaport or stay at the Hotel Queen Mary, they can enjoy the Queen's fascinating history, modern boutiques and scenic location, as well as its scrumptious mix of dining facilities, from snack shops to formal restaurants. When Seafarers utilize the services of the Queen Mary, they also put their dollars to work for themselves and their fellow trade unionists. That is because within the family of unions which make up the Seafarers International Union of North America (to which the Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District belongs), there are workers who produce a wide variety of goods and services. So, when SIU members give their patronage to operations like the Queen Mary, they not only receive top-of-the-line goods and services, but also support union workers. The United Industrial Workers (UIW) is one of the autonomous affiliates of the SIUNA, and employees of the Queen Mary are UIW members. The Seafarers LOG regularly highlights various union-made products and services. II other duties. When the vessel resumes operating, its crew will consist of roughly 100 civilian mariners. Historic Sites Bosun Martinez noted that mostoftheSeafarersonboardthe Niagara Falls are from the West Coast, and during off-time they have enjoyed visiting some of the historic areas near Norfolk. "I went to Williamsburg and I also drove around Yorktown," he said, adding that he hopes to visit The Mariners' Museum in Newport News, Va. sometime soon. Of course, the Niagara Falls has some interesting history itself. Three years ago in the Persian Gulf, the ship became the first Navy vessel to provide vertical replenishment services to a Russian warship. The Niagara Falls went on to find and destroy four mines in the Gulf. Later, it was docked in Guam when an earthquake that measured 8.1 on the Richter scale hit the island. Maritime Briefs II MSC Vice Commander Announces Resignation The Vice Commander of the Military Sealift Command (MSC), Wallace T. Sansone, recently announced he will resign from his position in order to teach at the National Defense University in Washington, D.C. Sansone, the highest ranking civilian working for MSC, will become the Professor of Sealift Studies at the Industrial College of the Armed Forces, which is a part of the National Defense University, in July. During his 13 years with the MSC, Sansone oversaw the transition of MSC into the Navy's primary provider of combat logistics forces as well as the development of the major strategic sealift programs which proved invaluable during the Gulf War. Dredge Project Begins in Oakland A massive dredging project designed to deepen the harbor in Oakland, Calif. was under way last month as 20 years worth of mud and silt began to be removed from the port. The $42 million project will deepen Oakland's harbor to 42 feet, thereby allowing easier access by containerships and encouraging other large vessels to frequent the seaport. The venture ensirres that the port of Oakland will continue to serve as a vital link between U.S. and Asian shipping traffic into the next century. Adm. Patterson Honored For Restoration of Liberty Ship Retired Rear Admiral Thomas J. Patterson of the U.S. Maritime Service, the man who spearheaded the effort to restore the Liberty ship Jeremiah O'Brien and sail it to Normandy last year for the 50th anniversary of D-Day, recently received two maritime-preservation awards. Patterson garnered the World Ship Trust Maritime Heritage Award, given by World Ship Trust of London, and the American Ship Trust Award, given by the New York-based National Maritime Historical Society. The O'Brien was the only merchant vessel to take part both in the 1944 D-Day invasion and in the 50th anniversary activities in Normandy last year. �JUllE1995 SEAFARERS LOS urging them to prevent flag-outs of American ships and discourage competition by foreign-flag vessels on U.S. ship routes. Bosun noted that Seafarers have helped make Sea-Land a success. Educational The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union ship. director reminded crewmembers to board minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space enroll in tanker safety course at limitations, some Will be omitted. Lundeberg School to stay eligible • • , . : for shipping aboard tankers. Ships mmutes first are reviewed by the umon s contract department. Treasurer announced $796.57 in Those Issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the ship's fund. Crew discussed using union upon receipt of the ships minutes. The minutes are then money for exercise equipment forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. rep~rs and new movies. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked galley gang for good food LEADER (Kirby Tankships), purchased last voyage. Secretary and clean ship. March 30-Chairman Patrick told crewmembers new pillows and Rankin, Secretary Tamara Hanmattresses on order. Educational LNG LEO (ETC), April 2-Chairson, Educational Director R.A. director emphasized importance of man Philip Parisi, Secretary Gracey, Deck Delegate Carson upgrading at Paul Hall Center. Henry Jones Jr., Educational Deck delegate reported disputed Jordan, Engine Delegate Edward Director Jeff Yarmola, Deck OT. No beefs or disputed OT Krebs. Chairman announced crew Delegate Darren Collins, Engine washing machine repaired and new reported by engine or steward Delegate Richard Robertson. delegates. Next port: Honolulu. movies received. He stated payoff Chairman stated no word from upon arrival in Alliance, La. headquarters following meeting SEA-LAND PACIFIC (Sea-Land Steward asked crew to keep doors with ETC. Educational director Service), March 26-Chairman closed when using air conditionreminded crew to upgrade at Paul Hayden Gifford, Secretary Aling. Educational director requested Hall Center. Deck delegate phonso Davis. Chairman stressed additional information from Paul reported disputed OT. No beefs or safety aboard ship. He advised Hall Center on Piney Point tanker disputed OT by engine or steward members to upgrade at Lundeberg operations course. He advised all delegates. New crewmembers welSchool as soon as possible and crewmembers to upgrade at Luncomed aboard. Crew gave vote of z-card before remember to renew deberg School. No beefs or disappreciation for hard work done by puted OT reported. Crew discussed expiration date. Treasurer ansteward department. Next port: nounced $420 in ship's fund and purchase of new antenna. Chair$70 in movie fund. No beefs or dis- Osaka, Japan. man reminded crew of dress policy puted OT reported. Crew stated during meal hours in mess hall. new Seafarers LOGs received in OM/ DYNACHEM(OMI), April port of Tacoma, Wash. Crew LIBERTY SEA (Liberty 23-Chairman Larry Kunc, thanked galley gang for job well Maritime), March 19-Chairman Secretary Steven Wagner, EducaTyrone A. Burrell, Secretary done and for great barbecue. Next tional Director Jason Etnoyer, Michael Davalie, Deck Delegate port: Tacoma. Deck Delegate Richard Lewis, EnKevin George. Crew requested gine Delegate H.A. Asumari, new exercise bike for gym, new Steward Delegate Heath Bryan. sofa in crew lounge and new chairs SEA-LAND TRADER (Sea-Land Chairman discussed tanker operafor mess halls. Crew discussed imService), March 21-Chairman tions course being offered at Lunportance of SPAD donations. deberg School. Bosun announced Mike Willis, Secretary Donald Secretary asked contracts departpayoff when docked in Louisiana Polzin, Educational Director ment for written clarification of and reported tanker going into Richard Risbeck, Deck Delegate chief cook duties. No beefs or disshipyard in Mobile, Ala. upon disRichard Buchanan, Engine puted OT reported. Crew noted charge of cargo. Educational direcDelegate Joe Graves Jr., Steward new washer needed in laundry tor noted EPA course now three Delegate Clarence Page. Chairroom. Special vote of thanks exdays instead of two and advised man noted ship to pay off upon artended to galley gang for job well crew to earn refrigeration endorsedone. rival in port. Educational director ments at Piney Point as soon as urged members to attend course at po ible. Trea urer reported new LIBERTY WA VE (Liberty movies bought in Gulf; list posted Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disMaritime), March 19-Chairman in crew lounge. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew noted N. Matthey, Secretary Randy puted OT reported. Crew extended repairs needed on VCR. Steward Stephens, Educational Director vote of thanks to steward departdepartment thanked for job well Charles Sandino, Deck Delegate ment. Next port: Los Angeles. Michael Hill. Chairman andone. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. nounced date of arrival in Beaumont, Texas. Engine and OOCL /NSP/RAT/ON(Sea-Land steward delegates reported disService), April 23-Chairman Seafarers' Meetings puted OT. No beefs or disputed OT Mark Trepp, Secretary Ekow Dofreported by deck delegate. Crew f oh, Educational Director Fred Focus on Politics gave vote of thanks to steward Dougherty, Deck Delegate department for job well done. Douglas Hodges, Engine Delegate Crew aboard Liberty Sea Sheldon Greenberg, Steward OOCL INSPIRATION (Sea-Land discusses importance of Delegate Richard Seligman. Service), March 18-Chairman Educational director urged memSPAD donations . .. OOCL Mark Trepp, Secretary Ekow Dofbers to upgrade at Paul Hall Center Inspiration's chairman asks foh, Educational Director Fred and take tanker safety class. No Dougherty, Deck Delegate crewmembers to write beefs or disputed OT reported. Douglas Hodges, Engine Delegate Bosun advised crew to write consenators and repreSheldon Greenberg, Steward gressmen and urge them to stop Delegate Richard Seligman. sentatives urging them not reflagging. He said to inform them Educational director stressed imthe merchant marine is alive and to support further reflagportance of upgrading at Lunkicking and will fight to keep jobs. deberg School. Treasurer asked ging ofU.S. vessels. He He noted government officials will crew to rewind and return movies not know where Seafarers stand not notes legislators willl to proper place. No beefs or dison issues vital to maritime industry puted OT reported. Crew discussed know where Seafarers stand unless they are so informed. telex from union headquarters on on issues unless they are so Sea-Land's reflagging of five vesinformed . .. Crew on Seasels. Chairman asked all crewmemOVERSEAS OH/O(Maritime bers to write representatives and Overseas), April 16-Chairman Land Tacoma also stresses senators urging them not to reflag Rudolph Hernandez, Secretary need for members to let any more U.S. vessels. All hands Earl Gray Sr., Educational Directhanked steward department for tor Scott Wilkinson, Deck elected official know the imfantastic meals and special treats. Delegate Renato Govico, Engine portance of U.S. merchant Delegate Gregory Johns, Steward OVERSEAS VALDEZ (Maritime fleet. .. Sea-Land Spirit's Delegate Ernest Polk. Chairman Overseas), March 12-Chairman commented on good trip with all educational director stresses Roberto Zapeda, Secretary Wildepartments getting ship's gear in liam Robles, Educational Director imporlantce of donating to top working order for annual U.S. Andreas Alexakis, Deck Delegate Coast Guard inspection. Secretary SPAD. Eddie Hall, Engine Delegate thanked crew for helping keep ship Andy Lopez, Steward Delegate clean and insect-free. He explained Joaquin Martinez. Chairman new stores' ordering procedure and reported payoff in Port Everglades, reminded crewmembers to take SEA-LAND TACOMA (SeaFla. No beefs or disputed OT tanker safety course being offered at Land Service), March 29-Chairreported. Crew offered thanks to Lundeberg School. Educational man Joseph Artis, Secretary J.D. galley gang for good meals. Hopkins. Chairman and crew disdirector advised crewmembers to take advantage of that and all other cussed reflagging of five Sea-Land SEA-LAND HAWAII (Sea-Land courses at the maritime center. No ships. Crew said such action is "a Service), March 26-Chairman beefs or disputed OT reported. slap in the face" for organized James Carter, Secretary Rolando labor and mariners whose devotion Chairman urged members to read Lopez, Educational Director monthly president's report in helped build American shipping Daron Ragucci, Deck Delegate A. Seafarers WG. Crew gave vote of companies such as Sea-Land. Musaed, Engine Delegate Ahmed thanks to galley gang for job well Chainnan asked crewmembers to Ahmed, Steward Delegate Glenn done. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. Taan. Chairman noted new movies write congressional representatives Digest.~f Ships Meetings SEA·LAND DEFENDER (SeaLand Service), April 9-Chairman William Dean, Secretary J .J. Alamar, Educational Director Al McQuade. Chairman advised members of letter from SIU President Michael Sacco informing crew of loss of five Sea-Land ships to foreign flag. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade skills at Lundeberg School. Engine delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck or steward delegates. Crew noted new Seafarers LOGs and telex from headquarters received. Crew asked contracts department to keep all union members informed on how many ships are being scrapped or reflagged. Crew gave "one hundred percent vote of thanks" to SIU administration for excellent representation of members and encouraged union to keep up good work. 19 to leave clean linens for incoming crewmembers. SEA-LAND INDEPENDENCE (Sea-Land Service), April 2Chairman Teodulfo Alanano, Secretary Robert Castillo, Educational Director Gary Dahl. Bosun thanked deck and &teward department members for fine jobs. Educational director reminded members of importance of upgrading at Lundeberg School. No beefs or disputed OT. Chairman advised crew to read Seafarers WG and stay infonned on union matters. Crew requested new dryer in crew laundry and new refrigerator in crew lounge. SEA-LAND NAVIGATOR (SeaLand Service), April 16-Chairman Werner Becher, Secretary JS. Smith, Educational Director Mike Wells, Deck Delegate Ken Harder, Steward Delegate Jasper Jacbon Between Meals Five members of the C. S. Long Lines' steward department meet for a quick snapshot between meal preparations. They are, from left, Second Cook Paul Sullivan, SA J. Paglinawan, Chief Steward D. Collison, Chief Cook Vainu'u Sili and SA Dominico Dacua. The Transoceanic Cable Ship vessel is berthed in Honolulu, Hawaii. SEA-LAND EXPLORER (SeaLand Service), April 16-Chairman Jack Kingsley, Secretary Lucretia Anderson, Educational Director Guy Pollard Lowsley, Deck Delegate Sal Lagare, Engine Delegate Melvin Layner, Steward Delegate Carlito Navarro. Chairman informed crew of arrival in Long Beach, Calif. He thanked crewmembers for good trip and noted return to Kobe, Japan next voyage. Bosun reminded crew signing off to strip bunks, clean rooms and leave keys on desk. Engine delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck or steward delegates. Crew acknowledged new issues of Seafarers LOG. Telex from SIU President Michael Sacco received and posted. Jr. Chairman announced payoff in port of Tacoma, Wash. He informed crew that gangway watch will have key to crew lounge while in foreign ports. Educational director encouraged members to take advantage of upgrading opportunities at Paul Hall Center. Engine delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck or steward delegates. Crew requested second washer and dryer for laundry room. Next port: Oakland, Calif. SEA-LAND EXPRESS (SeaLand Service), April 16-Chairman Ernest Duhon, Secretary George Bryant, Educational Director Archie Bell, Deck Delegate Dennis Brown, Engine Delegate Domingo Milla, Steward Delegate Ali Bubaker. Chairman gave special vote of thanks to Chief Steward Bryant for excellent job. Treasurer reported $1,000 in ship's movie fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next port Tacoma, Wash. SEA-LAND PRODUCER (SeaLand Service), April 18-Chairman Jack Edwards, Secretary David Cunningham, Educational Director James Smitko, Steward Delegate Paula Kaleikini. Chairman noted upcoming payoff. He reminded members of tanker safety program at Piney Point that will be required for all crewmembers. Educational director advised members to attend Lundeberg School to further skills. No beefs or disputed OT reported by all three departments. Crew thanked steward department for great food. Steward reminded crewmembers to rewind videotapes and make effort to keep movie room in order. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. SEA-LAND HAWAll(Sea-Land Service), April 23-Chairman James Carter, Secretary Rolando Lopez, Educational Director Daran Ragucci, Deck Delegate A. Musaed, Engine Delegate Ahmed Ahmed, Steward Delegate Glenn Taan. Chairman extended thanks and appreciation to galley gang for job well done putting out good quality meals and fine service. He gave special thanks to Chief Cook Taan. Secretary discussed installing radio or tape player for crewmembers in crew lounge. He noted new mattresses will arrive in port of Oakland, Calif. Treasurer announced $120 in movie fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Bosun reminded crew signing off SEA-LAND SP/R/T(Sea-Land Service), April 2-Chainnan George Khan, Secretary Steven Apodaca, Educational Director Charles Henley, Deck Delegate Paul Ma~, Engine Delegate Mark Lawrence, Steward Delegate Keynon Bragg. Chairman reminded crewmembers no smoking in mess or recreation rooms. He reported results of room inspections. Secretary urged members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. Educational director stressed importance of donating to SPAD. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked steward department for job well done. Galley gang thanked crewmembers for keeping recreation room clean. Next port: Honolulu. �20 SEAFARERS LOG JUNE1995 Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership's money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretarytreasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. A SHIPPING RIGHTS. member's shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (01) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time a member believes that an SIU ~atrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officeror member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed hannful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All memhers are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARE RS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are vol.u~tary. No ~ontribution may be solicited orrece1ved because offorce, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or tii:~t of such con?u.ct., or ~ a cond1t1onofmembershipm~e~m~n or of employment. If a contnbutJ.0!11s made by reason of the above nnproper conduct, the member should not.ify the Seafarers Int~mation~l U?t~n or SPAD by ce~fie~ mad ~1thi~30~aysofthecontr~but10n.for mvestigabon and appropnate acbon and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNIONIf at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Au th Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. Peter Hall, operator of the Manatee, makes an BoatOperatorSteveJeanisreadytoescortapilot to a vessel waiting to enter the channel. entry in the log of his launch services. Seafiare rs Deliver Tampa Pilots To Ships Each time a vessel sails into oroutofthe!an_ipaBay (Fla.) Channel, a pilot 1s required at the helm. And getting that pilot to and from a specific ship is the job of Seafarers employed by the Tampa Bay Pilots. The Tampa Bay Pilots monitor all ship traffic in the channel area and send pilots to the vessels requiring their services. Six SIU members, working full time on shifts of 12 hours on and 12 hours off, operate the three boats-the Manatee, the DeSoto and the Egmontfrom islands and piers along the channel. Several of the union members were involved in the rescue of 11 mariners following an August 1993 collision and explosion in the channel. The DeSoto is one of three Tampa Bay Pilot boats that escorts pilots to ships waiting to enter the channel. LOG-A-RHYTHM The Whitecaps by Tom Sepe We place our deceased, for eternal peace, In graves marked with marble and stones. But those lost at sea, unfortunately, Will never return to their homes. So God, in his grace, has marked their place With waves topped with crests offoam. Now, when I see a row of waves Each with a foamy crest, I'm reminded of my brothers, The Seafarers, gone to rest. [Tom Sepe joined the SIU in 1947 after attending the Maritime Service School at Sheepshead Bay. He sailed as an oiler on the Harold I. Pratt (Isthmian) in 1947 and the William David (South Atlantic) in 1948. Brother Sepe upgraded and joined the American Maritime Officers 1975. He has been an instructor at their training center in Dania, Fla. for the last 5¥2 years.This poem was written by Sepe especially for Maritime Day, May 22, 1995.] �SEAFARERS LOG JUNE1995 21 Final Departures DEEP SEA EMILIANO R. ALFORQUE Pensioner Emiliano R. Alforque, 86, died August 30, 1994. Born in the Philippine Islands, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1956 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU' s Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District (AGLIWD). He sailed primarily on American President Lines' vessels. Brother Alforque began receiving his pension in March 1973. FRANK M. AVISO Pensioner Frank M. A viso, 92, passed away January 23. Brother A viso signed on with the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1945 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. He sailed mainly as a chief cook on American President Lines' vessels. A native of the Philippines, Brother A viso retired in May 1969. THOMAS J. BALL Pensioner Thomas J. Ball, 82, died March 23. Born in Pennsylvania, he started sailing with the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1943 in the port of Wilmington, Calif., before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Ball began receiving his pension in December 1972. MIKO J. BERRY Pensioner Miko J. Berry, 69, passed away April 23. Brother Berry signed on with the Seafarers in 951 in the port of Mobile, Ala. He sailed in the engine department. Born in Mississippi, Brother Berry retired in May 1991. EVARISTOT. BUNGCAYAOSR. Pensioner Evaristo T. Bungcayao Sr., 89, died October 16, 1994. A native of the Philippine Islands, he began sailing with the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1946 from the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Bungcayao shipped primarily aboard American President Lines' vessels. He began receiving his pension in October 1969. VINCENT CAPITANO r.--__,....==..,--------. Pensioner Vincent Capitano, 83, passed away April 25. Brother Capitano started sailing with the SIU =============in194lfrom the port of New York. He sailed in the deck department. Born in Italy, Brother Capitano retired in February 1977. JOSEPH N. CHIARAMONTE He signed on with the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1942 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Born in Kansas, Brother Coleman retired in November 1969. PAULR.CROW Pensioner Paul R. Crow, 69, died May 3. A native of Arkansas, he began sailing with the SIU in 1965 from the port of Seattle. Brother Crow shipped in the engine department and upgraded frequently at the Lundeberg School. From 1944 to 1945 he served in the U.S. Navy. Brother Crow began receiving his pension in January 1991. GABRIEL CRUZ JR. Gabriel Cruz Jr., 64, passed away April 20. Born in New Jersey, he joined the Seafarers in 1969 in the port of New ==== York. A member of the steward department, Brother Cruz upgraded at the Lundeberg School. From 1948 to 1953 he served in the U.S. Army. MATEO C. DALUDADO Pensioner Mateo C . Daludado, 84, died January 20. Brother Daludado signed on with the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1957 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Daludado sailed on many vessels operated by American President Lines. He retired in September 1973. VICTOR DeJESUS VictorDeJesus, 42, passed away April 20. A native of New ~- , :· York, he ~~ joined the ·~-~- SIU in 1969 in the port of '--__::===-='--'<'-.-._, Piney Point, Md., after completing the Lundeberg School's training course for entry level seamen. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded frequently at the Lundeberg School. i . <·: ERNEST DOMINGUEZ Pensioner Ernest Dominguez, 67, died March 15. Brother Dominguez began his sailing career with the union in 1965 from the port of New York. He shipped in the steward department and upgraded his skills at the Lundeberg School. A native of New York, Brother Dominguez began receiving his pension in December 1992. JONGS.DONG Pensioner Jong S. Dong, 83, passed away January 7. Born in China, Brother Dong joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1955 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU' s AGLIWD. Brother Dong retired in December 1972. Pensioner Joseph N. ' Chiaramonte, . 64, died April 16. Born in New York, he attended the Andrew Furuseth ======= Training School and joined the Seafarers in 195 8 in the port of New York. He sailed in both the deck and engine departments and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. Brother Chiaramonte began receiving his pension in September 1993. Pensioner Raymond A. Duhrkopp, 75, died March 1. A native of New Jersey, he began sailing with the Seafarers in 1944 from the port of New York. Brother Duhrkopp shipped in the engine department and began receiving his pension in July 1982. ROBERT P. COLEMAN YOSIDTAKA FUKA WA Pensioner Robert P. Coleman, 70, passed away November 6, 1994. Pensioner Yoshitaka Fukawa, 69, died March 28. Born in California, RAYMOND A. DUHRKOPP he graduated from the Stewards Training School (Pacific) in 1962 and joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Fukawa upgraded at the Lundeberg School in 1980 and retired in September 1989. RESTITUTO G. GIMPA YA Pensioner Restituto G. Gimpaya, 84, passed away April 29. He signed on as a charter member of the Seafarers in 1938 in the port of New York. Brother Gimpaya was active in many union organizing drives. He last sailed in the steward department as a chief cook. Born in the Philippines, Brother Gimpaya began receiving his pension in December 1976. ANICETO F. GOSE Pensioner Aniceto F. Gose, 84, passed away February 7. He joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1944 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Born in the Philippine Islands, Brother Gose retired in June 1973. RUSSELL J. HIGBEA Russell J. Higbea, 35, passed away April 10. Born in Ohio, he signed on with the union in 1989 in the port of Algonac, Mich. Brother Higbea sailed in the deck department. From 1977 to 1981 he served in the U.S. Navy. ROY J.JAMES Roy J. James, 74, was an active member at the time of his death on March29. He joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1945 in the port of New York, before that union merged with the SIU' s AGLIWD. From 1943 to 1945 he served in the U.S. Army. He last sailed aboard the Padre Island dredge, operated by NATCO Ltd. Per Brother James' request, his remains were committed to the Pacific Ocean on May 25 from the deck of the President Monroe, owned by American President Lines. ALFRED JONES Pensioner Alfred "Bill Bo" Jones, 69, passed away February 10. He signed on with the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1949 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. He served in the U.S. Army from 1945 to 1947. A native of Mississippi, Brother Jones retired in July 1978. WILLIAM 0. KRUEGAR Pensioner William 0 . Kruegar, 88, passed away January 10. He began sailing with the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1956, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. A native of Oregon, Brother Kruegar retired from the SIU in October 1976. ANDERSON KYLE Pensioner Anderson Kyle, 89, died February 25. A native of Texas, he signed on with the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1956 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Kyle began receiving his pension in July 1973. NORMAND. MAGINN Pensioner NormanD. Maginn, 80, passed away March 25. He began his sailing career with the Marine Cooks L----"--== === and Stewards in 1933, before that union merged with the SIU' s AGLIWD. Born in Canada, he became a naturalized U.S. citizen. Brother Maginn retired in April 1976. LeROY RINKER Pensioner LeRoy Rinker, 86, died February 20. A native of Michigan, he began his sailing career with the SIU ~----~ in 1944 from the port of Norfolk, Va. He shipped in the steward department Brother Rinker retired in January 1971. DARREN W. SCHOEBEL Darren W. Schoebel, 29, died February 27. A native of Washington state, he signed on with the SIU in 1987 in the port of Honolulu. Brother Schoebel was a member of the steward department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. He regularly sailed aboard American Hawaii Cruises' vessels. timore. Brother Trevisano sailed in the steward department. A native of New York, he retired in October 1970. INl-AND VIRGILE. CLEMENT liiiiiiiiiii~iiiiiiiil Pensioner Virgil E. Clement, 79, passed away March29. He signed on with the Seafarers in 1960 in the L - - --==----' port of Houston. He sailed in the engine department. Born in Louisiana, Boatman Clement began receiving his pension in May 1978. ALFRED R. FRY Pensioner Alfred R. Fry, 80, died March29. He started sailing with the SIU in 1944 in the port of New .___ _ _ _ ___.York. Boatman Fry shipped in the engine department. Born in North Carolina, he retired in June 1977. CHARLES J. FUNCK Pensioner Edgar N. Sharp, 70, passed away March 2. Born in Idaho, he started sailing with the union in 1968 in the port of New York. A member of the deck department, Brother Sharp upgraded at the Lundeberg School. He served in the U .S. Army from 1943 to 1946. Brother Sharp began receiving his pension in January 1988. Pensioner Charles J. Funck,71, died February 26. Bomin ~ Louisiana, he began his career with the union in 1960 in the port of Houston, shipping as a member of the engine department. A World War II veteran, he served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to 1952. Boatman Funck retired in November 1985. JOHN J. SULLIVAN EDWARD B. HAWKS II Pensioner John J. Sullivan, 72, passed away January 10. A native of New Jersey, he signed on with the union in 1967 in the port of New York. Brother Sullivan sailed in the steward department. He retired in July 1987. EdwardB. Hawks II, 45, passed away January 29. A native of Virginia, he signed on with the Seafarers in .___ _ _ _ __, 1972 in the portofN01folk, Va. Boatman Hawks sailed as a member of the deck department and upgraded his skills at the Lundeberg School. EDGAR N. SHARP EDDIE L. WALKER Pensioner EddieL. Walker, 84, passed away March9. Brother Walker signed on with the SIU in 1941 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Sailing in the engine department, he worked his way up to chief electrician. The Alabama native retired in December 1972. GEORGE A. WOLF Pensioner George A. Wolf, 84, passed away March 8. He began sailing with the union as a charter memberin <---==---'-----=.::.....:...... 1939 from the port of Baltimore. Brother Wolf shipped in the steward department. A native of Pennsylvania, he retired in May 1973. DOMINICK TREVISANO Pensioner Dominick Trevisano, 68, passed away January 27. He joined the union in 1948 in the port of Bal- MONROE J. JACKSON Pensioner Monroe J. Jackson, 77, died January 31. He joined the SIU in 1956 in the port of New Orleans. Boatman Jackson shipped in the engine department. A native of Louisiana, he began receiving his pension in July 1979. GREAT LAKES EDWARD A. GALLAGHER Pensioner Edward A. Gallagher, 85, passed away March 13. Brother Gallagher signed on with the SIU in 1961 in the port of Chicago, sailing as a member of the deck department. He retired in February 1975. HERBERT E. TIPTON Pensioner Herbert E. Tipton, 85, passed away February 21. A native of Virginia, Brother Tipton began his sailing career with the Seafarers in 1940 from the port of Detroit. He shipped in the steward department. Brother Tipton retired in January 1977. �22 SEAFARERS LOS JUNE1995 Lundeberg School Graduating Classes t Ab le. ~ea~an- Marking their graduation on March 28 from the six-week able seaman class are (from left, kneeling) Tom Gilliland (instructor), Rodney S. Roberson Sr., Michael Johnson, Noah Jones IV, Thomas Schaefer Jr., (second ro~) Ryan Zanca, C~ar1es A. Hill, Dennis Danforth Jr., Steven Roquemore, Victor Frazier, (third row) Andre Holmes, Michael Pederson, Enc Melle, Isom Ingram and Phillip A. Milan. Diesel Engine Technology- Earning their certification in diesel engine technology on April 12 are (kneeling, from left) Carmine Barbati, Robert Rice, William Parker, (second row) Thomas Hogan, Green Hoskins, Robert Oppel, Robert Mayer, Eric Malzkuhn (instructor), (third row) Tee Miles, William B. Twiford and Wayne F. Gonsalves. QMED- Upgrading members of the engine department completing the QMED course on March 27 are (sitting) Tellison Forde, (from left, kneeling) John Schafer, Clive Steward Sr., Lonnie Matthews, Kevin McCagh, Charles K. Marine Electrical Maintenance II- ReceivDunnavant, (second row) Scott Melle, Scott S. Fuller, James Furbey, Benjamin Stanley, George Gill, Gary Mitchell, Eddie ing their certification in marine electrical maintenance on April Len, John G. Knott, Ernest Perreira, (third row) Bret Hughes, Howard Allen, Paul Ferguson, Shawn Murphy, Phil Golgano, 20 are (from left) Franklin Coburn, Edward A. Rynberg, Mark Jones (instructor) and John K. Halim. Steven Kafka, Eric Hyson and Roy Coleman. Tankerman Operations- SIU members completing the tankerman operations course on April 18 are (from left, kneeling) Ben Cusic Qnstructor), Robert H. Seaman, James Gibson, Martinez Rivas, Keith Dunnavant, Frank Hedge, James Blanchard, Joseph Grandinetti, Flavio Castillo, Jake Karaczynski (instructor), (second row) Tim Kacer, Norman Haddad, Ray Strength, Silvio Iglesias, Rudolph Lopez, Tracy Hill, Lawrence Holbert, Paul Adams, (third row) Robert Bakeman, Dennis Riley, Lawrence Zepeda, DiMarko Shoulders, Murray Roberson, Walter Ritvalsky, Larry Philpot, John Groom, Fadiga Koutougou, Paul Lewis, David Brown, Thaddeus Khyati, David Somers and Victor Quioto. �JUNE1995 SEAFARERS LOG LUNDEBERG SCHOOL 1995 UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE The following is the course schedule for classes beginning between June and November 1995 at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship located at the Paul Han Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. All programs are geared to improve job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. The course schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and-in times of conflict-the nation's security. Please note that students should check in the Friday before their course's start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. Steward Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Assistant Cook/Cook and Baker, Chief Cook, Chief Steward June 16 August2S November3 Septembers November17 January 26, 1996 Engine Upgrading Courses Course QMED - Any Rating Diesel Engine Technology Deck Upgrading Courses StartDate - Date of Com~letion August14 July3 October9 June19 June 26 November3 July 28 November3 June23 June30 Course Start Date Date of Completion Refrigeration Technician Certification Able Seaman July 31 October20 Fireman/Watertender & Oiler Bridge Management (Shiphandling) July 17 October9 July 28 October 20 August7 October2 October20 December15 Hydraulics Celestial Navigation November6 Decemberl5 Junes October9 July7 November to Lifeboatman July 17 July 28 Marine Electrical Maintenance I July31 Septembers Limited License/License Prep. July 3 September 25 AugustU November3 Powe.- Plant Maintenance July 17 August25 Pumproom Maintenance September 11 September 22 July 10 August 14 September 25 July 14 August 18 October29 Refrigeration Systems & Maint. Angust28 October6 Welding October23 November17 August28 December 15 Marine Electronics Junes June30 Radar Observer/Unlimited Third Mate All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. Inland Courses Safety Specialty Courses Course Start Date Date of Com(!letion Deck Inland August14 October23 August25 November3 June22 July 20 September 21 October 19 Designated Duty Engineer/ Limited License/License Prep. July 24 November13 August4 November 24 Radar Observer/Inland November6 NovemberlO August7 Augustll Electronics July 17 July 28" e October9 November3 Hydraulics September 25 October6 June 19 July 17 August 14 September 11 October9 November6 July 14 August 11 Septembers October6 November3 December 1 Course Start Date Date of Completion Advanced Firefighting September 11 September 22 Oil Spill Safety Recertification June22 July 20 September 21 October 19 Oil Spill Prevention & Containment Sealift Operations an Tanker Operations 23 Recerti8cation Programs Additional Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion GED Preparation August22 November to Adult Basic Education (ABE) and English as a Second Language (ESL) Junes September5 July 28 October27 Course Start Date Date of Completion Bosun Recertification October2 November6 Course Start Date Date of Completion Steward Recertification July 3 August 7 Session II June 5 July 28 Deck and Engine Department College Courses --~---------------------···---···--------------------··---·---·----···------··----·-------·-·-··--·-·----···-----·-------·-----···----····-----------··- UPGRADING APPLICATION Primary language spoken (Street) (Zip Code) (State) (City) Telephone~-~------ Date of Birth _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ (Monlh/Day/Y car) (Arca Code) Lakes Member D Deep Sea MemberD Inland Waters Member D .· With this application, COPIES of your discharges must be submitted showing sufficient time to qualify yourselffor the course(s) requested. You also must submit a COPY of each of the following: the first page ofyour union book indicating your department and seniority, your clinic card and the front and back ofyour z-card as well as your Lundeberg School identification card listing the course(s) you have taken and completed. 1he admissions office WILL NOT schedule you until all of the above are received. END BEGIN DATE DATE COURSE If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security # Book # _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Seniority _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Department _ _ _ _ _ __ U.S. Citizen: DYes D No HomePort _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held _ __ _ _ __ _ _ _ _ _ __ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS trainee program? DYes DNo If yes, class# - - - -- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0No DYes Have you attended any SHLSS upgrading courses? If yes, course(s) taken _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? DYes DNo Firefighting:OYes DNo CPR:DYes DNo LAST VESSEL: - - - - - - - - - - - - - Rating: _ _ _ __ Date O n : - - - - - - - - - - Date Off: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ SIGNATURE_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ _.DATE _ __ _ _ _ __ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. RETURN COMPLETED APPL/CATION TO: Lundeberg School of Seamanship, Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075. 6195 �SEAFARERS The Lundeberg School can provide you and your family with all the ingredients for an exciting vacation. Do not wait until the last minute. Make your plans now. See page 10 for details and rates. S.T. • • • • Operating on the Great Lakes since 1927, Inland Lakes Management's S.T. Crapo has seen many changes. Until recently, in fact, the S. T. Crapo was the last remaining freighter on the Great Lakes to have a coal-fired boiler. While the S. T. Crapo has remained virtually unchanged since the day of its christening almost 70 years ago, according to the company, oil is easier to obtain, cleaner to use and much more efficient. And so, in an effort to keep up with the times, the Laker entered a Sturgeon Bay, Wis. shipyard last fall where it underwent conversions from its coal-fired boiler to a unit that uses oil. The survival rate of Lakers such as the S. T. Crapo is high. This is due primarily to the fact that fresh water is less corrosive 'Sc Steward department members include (from left to right) Steward Alie Mutahr, Porter Brian Demeritt and Second Cook Dave lmbruone. on metal than is salt water. Also, Great Lakes vessels are in service for approximately nine months of the year, and a consistently high level of maintenance remains in effect. All Lakers come into dry dock for hull inspections once every five years. Additionally, each spring the U.S. Coast Guard conducts in-water inspections of the S. T. Crapo crewships. While in the shipyard members participate The S. T. Crapo has gone through many in a Coast Guard during the winter months, changes over the years, but the vessel's lifeboat drill prior to routine work is performed as wheel remains unchanged from when the sailing on May 6. well as other necessary repairs. ship was built in 1927. The 403-foot S. T. Crapo was the last of the company's five vessels to fit out for the 1995 season. (The other four are the I.A. W. Iglehart, Alpena, Paul H. Townsend and the 97-year-old E.M. Ford.) It set sail on May 6 following Coast Guard inspections and a lifeboat drill. With a cargo capacity of 8,600 dead weight tons, the S. T. Crapo hauls bulk cement from the Lafarge plant in Alpena, Mich. to various ports on the Great lakes. The photos on this page were sent to the Seafarers LOG by OS Enjoying some free time before fitout Bosun Jack Bluitt examines the inflatable life are Wheelsman Bob Hensley (left) Chris Edyvean following the Giving the S. T. Crapo's deck a new coat of paint are AB fitout on board the S.T. Crapo. Carlton Dorrance (left) and OS Dave Andrews. and Wheelsman Bill Thomen. rafts before a U.S. Coast Guard inspection. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 1990-1999 Description An account of the resource Volumes LII-LXI Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993; Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource June 1995 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES GOV’T SHOULD PAY FAIR PRICE FOR RIGHT TO USE U.S. SHIPS, SAYS ’95 HALL LECTURER BARER SENATE PASSES BILL TO EXPORT ALASKAN OIL ON U.S. TANKERS MSC AWARDS SEALIFT PACT TO SIU CONTRACTOR U.S. SHIP BILL CLEARS HOUSE DEFENSE COMMITTEE COURT MERGES LAWSUITS TO BLOCK APL FLAG-OUT FLOODING STOPS TUG/BARGE ACTIVITIES ALONG MISSISSIPPI AND ITS FEEDERS FAUST COMBINES HARD-WORKING CREW AND DECK CAPACITY TO DELIVER TRACTORS TO RUSSIA NATION REMEMBERS BRAVERY OF MERCHANT MARINE VETERANS NEW REG WILL CHANGE TANKERMEN TESTS SAFETY STRESSED IN TANKER COURSE CRESCENT ENGINEERS COMPLETE DDE COURSE IN NEW ORLEANS SEAFARERS’ ALERT ACTION ALLOWS CAROLINA TO AID STRANDED MOTO YACHT DARDENS: PINEY POINT IS A FAMILY AFFAIR SIU TRAINING CENTER OPEN TO ALL VACATIONING SEAFARERS SEAFARERS FAMILY PHOTOS FREE MARKET CALLS FOR PROPER FUNDING OF U.S. MERCHANT FLEET, SAYS TOTEM CEO SEAFARERS OPERATE FERRIES TO MICHIGAN ISLAND GOV’T SERVICES DIVISION SEAFARERS AID IN CONVERSION OF NIAGRA FALLS SEAFARERS DELIVER TAMPA PILITS TO SHIPS THE WHITECAPS BY TOM SEPE S.T. CRAPO SETS SAIL WITH NEW ENGINES Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 06/01/1995 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 57, No. 6 1995 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/a8867f29bf737ace860d5d8164879b8c.pdf b8828f5562f4b5fb295b67e29575c96f PDF Text Text House Holds U.S. Ship Bill Hearings ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Page3 May1995 Volume 57, Number 5 Union Wins Pay Package For Seafarers On Rella ed -L Convenient Clinic Thanks to SIU Suit, USCG Halts Fee for FBI Records Check Page6 ~-·1,~ l~UL..1~J.miw~....-.---­ Texas boatmen and their families now are able to receive medical attention near their homes, thanks to the newest facility approved by the Seafarers Welfare Plan, the Tower Medical Center of Nederland. Page 8. New Bedford Fleet Seeks Overseas Fishing Grounds Page6 �2 SEAFARERS LOG MAY1995 President's Report Full Senate Ready to Consider Grassroots Activity: The Key to Job Security The remainder of 1995 will be a crucial time for the U.S.flag merchant marine-a period in which the fate of our in~~ dustry well may be decided. During the coming months, the SIU will be working with Congress on a number of key issues. We will make sure that our elected representatives fully understand the necessity of enacting a federal maritime revitalization program, allowing the export of Alaskan oil on U.S.-flag ships, preserving the Jones Act and cargo preference programs and maintaining both the Federal Michael Sacco Maritime Commission and the Shipping Act of 1984. Throughout our existence, the Seafarers International Union has fought to preserve and expand the American-flag merchant fleet. But the time has come for us to launch greater efforts, and that means an increase in grassroots political activity. Many New Legislators You will recall that nearly 100 new members of the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate were elected last November. It is up to us to effectively inform those new members of Congress and their staffs about the vital need to maintain a strong U.S.-flag merchant fleet, both from the standpoints of national security and economic security. The SIU will be providing materials and information to help legislators learn more about the maritime industry. And of course, we must send that message not only to the freshmen, but also to every member of Congress. When you consider that roughly 140 federal agencies and 100 congressional committees have some form of jurisdiction over our industry-and therefore, over the lives of Seafarers-it is easy to see that we have a large audience with which we must communicate. I know from experience that grassroots work, whether manning phone banks and distributing literature as part of a campaign, or circulating petitions, writing letters and participating in rallies to advance a legislative issue, is not glamorous. Very often, in fact, it is difficult, requiring long hours and personal sacrifice. But grassroots lobbying is the most effective tool that average citizens possess in the United States. Elected officials definitely listen when you write to them or call their offices. They take note of the interests of people who work in their campaigns and who have the power to help get them reelected. Take Time to Help So when your port agent or another SIU official or a fellow Seafarer asks you to help out, please lend a hand. When you are called upon in the upcoming months, remember what you are fighting for: your job, the future of our industry and the security of our nation. Job security always has been the top priority of the SIU, but these days, it is a difficult fight. We must make efficient use of every one of our resources in order protect our jobs and our industry. Along those same lines, it is also important for Seafarers to continue their voluntary support of the Seafarers Political Activities Donation fund, also known as SPAD. SPAD allows the union and its members to participate in campaigns to help candidates who support a strong U.S. merchant marine. These are not the best of economic times for most working Americans, so I do not take it lightly when I ask each SIU member to consider increasing voluntary SP AD donations. But again, this is a critical period for our industry, and it is going to require a powerful effort from all of us to help set the U.S. merchant marine back on course. I have every confidence that, together, we will succeed. Volume 57, Number 5 ~16 May 1995 The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 0160-2047) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District; AFL-CIO; 520 l Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone(301) 899-0675. Second-class postage paid at MSC Prince Georges, MD 20790-9998 and at additional mailing offices. POS1MASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Managing Editor, Daniel Duncan; Associate Editors, Jordan Biscardo and Corrina Christensen Gutierrez; Associate Editor/Production, Deborah A. Hirtes; Art, Bill Brower; Administrative Support, Jeanne Textor. Lifting Alaskan Oil Export Ban House Also Prepares to Hold Hearings on Measure This month, both the Senate and House of Representatives are expected to take up legislation that would end the export ban of Alaskan North Slope oil as long as it is carried aboard U.S.-flag tankers. The SIU is pushing for passage of such legislation in order to provide jobs for American mariners and keep the U.S.-flag independent tanker fleet active into the next century. As written and being considered in both the Senate and House, the measure calls for Alaskan North Slope oil sold to other countries to be carried from Alaska aboard U.S.flag tankers. Senate Tackles Issue The Senate is due to take up the Alaska Power Administration Sale Act (S. 395) this month following action in a committee. The bill, sponsored by Senator Frank Murkowski (R-Alaska), was marked up and made ready for Senate consideration by a bipartisan 14-4 vote of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee on March 15. (Murkowski serves as the committee's chairman.) No date has been set for Senate debate. Meanwhile, the House Resources Committee plans to hold a hearing on May 9 for its version of the legislation. As of mid-April, the House bill (H.R. 70) had 69 sponsors from both the Republican and Democratic parties. H.R. 70 was introduced by Representative William Thomas (R-Calif. ). The chairman of the House Resources Committee, Representative Don Young (R-Alaska), has stated that his group is willing to consider S. 395 should the Senate act on it in a timely manner. The legislation would end a 22-year ban on the sale of Alaskan North Slope oil overseas. The prohibition was implemented by Congress in response to the 1973 Arab oil embargo. Aids Tanker Fleet During a March 1 hearing before the Senate committee, SIU President Michael Sacco stated the SIU had opposed lifting the ban in prior years because it would have been carried aboard foreign-flag tankers. However, the union changed its stand last year when SIU-contracted tanker companies showed that the decline in North Slope production was leading to the premature scrapping of vessels used in the Alaskan oil trade. Sacco also testified that passage of S. 395 would help keep the U.S.-flag independent tanker fleet sailing on the high seas into the next century. This would provide jobs for American mariners and make sure the fleet is available in times of national emergency, he told the legislators. The committee also was reminded of a Department of Energy announcement made last year that it would support export sales of Alaskan North Slope oil. During the Senate hearing, Energy Deputy Secretary Wil- liam H. White reaffirmed the department's position. He stated that the Clinton administration believes all Alaskan oil "must be exported in U.S.-flagged and U.S.-crewed vessels. Legislation must provide substantial protection of seafarer employment opportunities for American workers." Questions Answered Senator J. Bennett Johnston (D-La.) raised questions whether this position would draw concern from America's trading partners in the wake of recently signed agreements, such as the Organization of Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) regarding shipbuilding and the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT). He requested clarification from the office of the U.S. Trade Representative. During the March 15 committee meeting, Johnston announced he had received a letter from U.S. Trade Representative Mickey Kantor stating S. 395 as written was satisfactory. "I can state categorically that S. 395, as currently drafted, does not present a legal problem," Kantor wrote to Johnston in a letter dated March 9. In order for the export sales of Alaskan North Slope crude oil carried aboard U.S.-flag tankers to become law, it must be passed by the Senate and the House of Representatives. After passage by both branches of Congress, it would go to the president for his signature. Rank-and-File Panel Approves Union's 1994 Financial Records Meeting with SIU Secretary-Treasurer John Fay are members of the SIU financial review committee. From the left are AB Don Graves, QMED Greg Eastwood, SA John Mclain, AB Tom Keenan, Fay, QMED Robert Ott, Bosun Henry Bentz and Bosun Rowland "Snake" Williams. Seven rank-and-file Seafarers have reviewed the union's financial records for 1994 and found them in order, according to a report issued by the committee. That report will be delivered during the May membership meetings. Elected by fellow SIU members at the April headquarters meeting in Piney Point, Md., the annual financial review committee is authorized by Article X, Section 15 of the union's constitution to make an examination "for each period of the finances of the union and [to] report fully on their findings and recommendations." John McLain, a steward assistant who sails from the port of Philadelphia, stated there were no problems during the group's review. McLain, who was elected chairman by his fellow committee members, said the group carefully looked over the union's financial documents for 1994. "We were able to proceed smoothly," McLain said after the examination was completed. "We had a really hard-working group, and everyone worked well together." Adding his praise for the effort given by the committee was Bosun Rowland "Snake" Williams, who in his final act for the union before retiring served as the group's vice chairman. "We understood what our job was and went right to work," Williams noted. "We found everything in order." Joining McLain and Williams on the committee were Recertified Bosun Henry Bentz, QMED Greg Eastwood, AB Don Graves, AB Tom Keenan and QMED Robert Ott. The group took five days in early April to complete its review of the union's records. �MAY1995 SEAFARERS LOG 3 SIU Wins Pay Package For Members' Jobs Lost In Sea-Land Reflagging Freshman Representative Patrick Kennedy (D-R.1.) tells SIU President Michael Sacco that he learned a great deal about the challenges facing U.S. shipping. Sacco had just testified before the April 6 hearing of the House Merchant Marine Panel. House Marine Panel Begins Hearings on U.S.-Flag Ship Bill Swift Enactment Urged by SIU The SIU urged Congress to enact maritime revitalization legislation this year when the House Merchant Marine Oversight Panel held its first hearing on the Maritime Security Act of 1995 (H.R. 1350) on April 6. SIU President Michael Sacco, testifying on behalf of all U.S. maritime unions, told the panel, "Enactment of maritime reform legislation is essential to our nation. "Our country's security, the survival of our industry and thousands of American jobs are at stake," he added. In opening the hearing on H.R. 1350, U.S. Representative Herbert H. Bateman (R-Va.), chairman of the panel, said members of Congress "have an obligation to consider the administration's submission." H.R. 1350 was presented to Congress on March I 0 by Transportation Secretary Federico Pena. The legislation calls for a 10-year, $1 billion program that would provide annual funding for approximately 50 U.S.-flag containerships. As presently written and outlined by Maritime Administrator Albert Herberger during a March 28 hearing before the panel, the bill would authorize $2.5 million for up to 40 ships during the first three years. Then, it would provide $2 million per vessel per year for the remaining seven years for up to 50 ships. If passed by Congress and signed into law by the president, the legislation is scheduled to begin in Fiscal Year 1996, which starts October 1. In order to receive funding from the program, U.S.-flag shipping companies would have to make the vessels receiving the dollars available to the government in times of war or national emergencies. Similar legislation had solid support from Republicans and Democrats in both the House and Senate during the last session of Congress. However, the bill was killed by farm-state senators through the use of a parliamentary procedure. Following the close of Congress last year, President Clinton renewed his vow to enact maritime revitalization legislation. Funds Within Budget Military and Economic Needs Unlike a similar bill that was supported overwhelmingly by the House of Representatives during the last session of Congress, H.R. 1350 gets its dollars from a direct annual appropriation within the Department of Transportation, rather than an increase in the tonnage fees paid by vessels entering U.S. harbors. Noting efforts to pass maritime revitalization in Congress have been going on since 1992, Rep. Bateman said the past difficulty has been finding the money to fund such legislation. "Certainly, we've gained an advantage this year in that this recent proposal by this administration is funded through general receipts of the Treasury, not through a tonnage tax on vessels entering U.S. ports," he said at the hearing. In outlining the maritime unions' support for H.R. 1350, Sacco noted the military and economic needs provided by the U.S.-flag merchant fleet. "Only a U.S.-flag, U.S.-citizen crewed merchant fleet provides our country with guaranteed availability," Sacco said. "There is no such thing as an effective controlled fleet. Without American crews, without firm operational control under American laws, 'effective control' is merely a front to allow vessels to avoid taxes, regulations and operational requirements while enjoying all the benefits of participating in our open and profitable shipping trades." He drew the panel's attention to the problems created when Continued on page 10 The SIU won a large compensation package for Seafarers who were sailing aboard Sea-Land vessels that were recently transferred to the Marshall Island registry. The union extracted from the company three months back pay for every mariner who was working aboard one of the five SeaLand containerships at the time of the flag switch. SIU Vice Presi dent Contracts Augustin Tellez announced the agreement, reached April 24 after two months of negotiations also includes severance pay and benefits for Seafarers who lost their jobs because of the reflagging. Tellez noted the SIU pushed for these payments despite the fact they are not called for under the standard freightship agreement's sales and transfer provision. Article VI, Section 1 applies only when a vessel stays under the U.S.-flag when it is sold or transferred to another owner. The contract has no provisions addressing a U.S.-flag vessel reflagged overseas. Efforts to acquire an agreement for severance, wages and benefits with Sea-Land began immediately after the company announced in February its intention to reflag five of its containerships. On February 14, the Maritime Administration (MarAd) approved Sea-Land's request to transfer the registry of the vessels-the Sea-Land Freedom, Sea-Land Mariner, Sea-Land Pride, Sea-Land Motivator and Sea-!And Value-to the Marshall Islands. Within days of the approval, Sea-Land removed the American crewmembers of the Sea-Land Freedom and replaced them with foreign mariners. The company expects to complete the reflagging process on all five vessels by early this month. Pay for Seamen A memorandum of understanding, dated April 24, between the SIU and Sea-Land calls for the company to pay three months wages for all members of the unlicensed departments who sailed aboard the Sea-Land vessels. These wages will include the total of the applicable base wage as well as the average overtime pay for the three months prior to the reflagging. Sea-Land is required to pay the wages within 30 days of the date of each vessel's reflagging or the signing of the memorandum (if the reflagging already has taken place). Regarding severance pay for those who sailed aboard the five Sea-Land vessels, the company has agreed to pay a base wage to the bosuns, chief electricians and steward/bakers relative to their time of service in those positions aboard any Sea-Land containership. For those with less than one year of service as a bosun, chief electrician or steward/baker, the severance payment will equal four months of base wages. For members with one to five years aboard a Sea-Land vessel in those positions, the company will pay seven months of base wages. Those Seafarers with more than five years of sailing aboard SeaLand vessels in one of the three positions will receive the 12month equivalent of base wages. (For the agreement, service means time aboard any Sea-Land vessel in the position of bosun, chief electrician and steward/baker with consideration given to vacation time as provided for in the shipping rules. An example of how this would work is a member who sailed as a bosun on a Sea-Land ship 10 years ago for a total of one year, then caught jobs aboard vessels Continued on page 10 nion Expands Political Efforts Job Security Is Goal of Stepped-Up Campaign In response to the com- mosteverycabinet-leveldepartplexities of a new Congress, ment in the federal government myriad federal agencies with in some way or another has an oversight into the U.S. merchant impact on the membership of the marine and the changing politi- union. cal philosophy that favors universal deregulation, the SIU The vast array of congressional has launched an intensive effort committees and federal agento boost its political activities. cies that have some form of in"What is at stake is the fate of fluence on the activities and lives the U.S. merchant marine," SIU of Seafarers is outlined on President Michael Sacco stated in calling on union members to pages 12 and 13· redouble their efforts. ,.______________ With a record number of The SIU' s legislative efforts freshmen legislators in Congress have to stay abreast of decisions · d e among the and regulations being issued an d a strong attltu from these various bureaus, nation's policy-makers that branches and divisions in order government support for · bl e · · d · key· in- to keep the mere hant fl eet via d ustnes IS unwarrante m times and strong. of a high budget deficit, the To continue the much needed SIU's political action apparatus poli.tical work of the SIU, Sacco d · r·~ · has mcrease its e iorts to ensure has called on all union members that elected officials recognize · f u s fl to voluntarily increase their conth e Importance o a .. - ag tributions to SPAD-the fleet to the nation's economic ~ Seafarers Political Action Dona· an d d e1ense. secunty tion. Additional Effort Required SPAD serves as the mechanism used by the SIU to The expanded effort means tb d b voice support for those can.t. I 11 a dd1 10na ca s mus e ma e Y · 1 · di dates who stand in favor of the S Iu representatives to eg1slators and their staffs to let them U.S. merchant marine and its know how vital the U.S. mer- policies. Monies raised by chant fleet is to the nation. SPAD through the Voluntary Materials are being designed to donations of Seafarers are used help with this endeavor. At the for political activities and consame time, the union is working tributions to political can· h h · · didates. wit ot er orgamzat10ns to promote the merchant fleet and New Vacation Forms secure jobs for mariners. Also garnering more attenBeginning this month, memtion is the multitude of agencies hers filing for vacation will be at the federal and state levels that using a new form with a revised have some jurisdiction over the statement for donating to SPAD. work and lives of Seafarers. AI- Unlike the old application which lirnitedthedailySPADdonation to 50 cents, the new form allows a member to determine how much more, in addition to the 50-cent daily amount, he or she wishes to contribute. A member may simply mark the box provided or write in the additional voluntary contribution he or she would like to make, then sign the form. SPAD provides Seafarers with a foot in the door of legislators on Capitol Hill. So much of what happens to Seafarers and the U.S. merchant marine depends on what takes place in Congress. Already th1's year, hean·ngs have been held on legislation designed to provide a IO-year, $1 billion program to help fund approximately 50 U.S-flag containerships and to open Alaskan North Slope crude oil to export sales as long as it is transported aboard U.S-flag tankers. Expected to be brought before the legislators during this session of Congress are an agn·cultural bill that deals w1'th cargo preference, defense and national security matters that could determine the size and composure of the U.S. merchant fleet, trade policies that cover how the U.S. deals with foreign nations and much, much more. OtherwaysCongressdrrectly affects the lives of Seafarers and their families is through legislation dealing with labor laws, health and safety concerns, budget appropriations and the environment. �r--- - -- -- -- -- - - - - - - - -- - - -- - - - --- --. - - 4 SEAFARERS LOG MAY1995 Runaway Shipowner Abandons Crew, Vessel For Ten Months Taxiarchis' Seamen Are Sustained by Charity Most people would think it unconscionable for a shipowner to abandon his vessel and strand his crewmembers thousands of miles from their homes. But such shameful actions are all too common among shipowners who operate their vessels under runaway flags. One recent example of this despicable system is the ordeal of a stranded, multinational crew of the Greek-owned, Cyprus-flag bulk freighter Ta.xiarchis. Last June, 17 crewmembers from the Taxiarchis were marooned in Virginia's Tidewater area by the shipowner (Kent Trading Corp. of Piraeus). The seamen spent eight months living on the arrested vessel, then were kicked off the ship when a U.S. court forced the heavily indebted owner to sell the Taxiarchis. Comprised of citizens from Palcistan, Romania, Guatemala, Honduras, Greece and the Philippines, the crew spent the next two months living in donated hotel rooms in Newport News, Va. Through the tireless assistance of the International Seamen's Friend House in Newport News, as well as the International Transport Workers Federation (ITF) and other groups, including the SIU and the Hampton Roads Port Council of the AFLCIO Maritime Trades Department, the crewmembers received aid to survive winter on the inoperable ship, as well as legal counsel, airfare back to their respective countries (they flew home April 15) and other assistance. Alice Reese Thomas, director of the Seamen's Friend House, a non-profit, church-founded organization, said she was both saddened and angered about the way the Taxiarchis crewmembers were deserted. "It's criminal, the way those men were treated. Some of them had deaths in their families but couldn't return home," says Thomas, who has worked at the center for 13 years. "The seamen were little more than indentured slaves." Indeed, when the shipowner turned his back on the crew and when Cyprus, the nation where the ship was registered, shirked its responsibility for the vessel, the mariners had no recourse. U.S. courts were left to determine the fate of the ship and crew, who only were sustained by philanthropic acts throughout the 100-degree summer months and the cold of winter. Even before they arrived in Virginia, the seamen had to endure substandard shipboard conditions. The Taxiarchis was riddled with engine problems, faulty navigational equipment, broken pipes, insufficient stores and an overall long-term Jack of proper maintenance. 1 P. Kevin Morley/Times-Dispatch Abandoned by an indebted owner and denied help by the country where the vessel was registered (Cyprus), multinational crewmembers of the freighter Taxiarchis, including those pictured above, were stranded in Virginia for ten months. Pictured from left are Antonio Ruiz, Israel Quiroz, Jose Pineda, Neri Valenzuela, Arshad Hussain, Julian Chitiga and Mihai Stanciu. In addition, crewmembers said they were forced to work overtime for months after the company had stopped paying them. Several acknowledged they had paid hundreds of dollars apiece to get their jobs. Unfortunately, the crew is not alone in its plight For the last 40 years, the runaway-flag ship registry has been a device used by North American, European and Japanese shipowners to evade the strict conditions called for by the governments and seamen's unions of their own nations. Runaway-flag shipowners also use a series of services such as manpower supply, insurance and inspections from different parts of the globe to make it more difficult to assert legal actions against their vessels. Often, those ships are characterized by defective equipment, inhumane living conditions and unqualified crews. Exploitation of Crew The case of the Taxiarchis demonstrates how runaway registries foster exploitation. In this instance, the crewmembers were abandoned by the shipowner and were snubbed by the flagstate (the country in which the vessel is registered), yet they had little recourse. In June 1994, the 400-foot vessel was carrying sugar from South America to Canada when it developed engine trouble. When the ship docked in Newport News for repairs, U.S. Coast Guard inspectors discovered a plethora of safety hazards aboard the Ta.xiarchis and ordered additional repairs. Kent Trading Corp. agreed to the repairs but quickly fell behind on payments. Meanwhile, port officials discovered that the company had run up $2 million in other debts. While creditors of the Taxiarchis went to court to battle for payment, Cyprus officials refused to aid the crew, on the grounds that the ship allegedly was not entitled to fly that nation's flag. According to press accounts, Capt. Andreas Constantinou, maritime attache for the consulate general of the Republic of Cyprus, said the Taxiarchis' certificate of registry expired July 5. He added that the shipowner did not seek renewal. So while the creditors fought for months in court, the crewmembers effectively were stranded on the ship. As one crewmember put it, were it not for the aid of the Seamen's Friend House and other groups, "We would have died." Through the charitable organization, Thomas coordinated donations of 7 ,400 gallons of diesel fuel (to heat the ship) and 60 tons of fresh water (delivered by barge), as well as stores, clothing, medical care, money, counseling and more. Mean while, in December the crewmembers' legal counsel filed a claim for back wages on the mariners' behalf in U.S. District Court in nearby Norfolk, Va. Court Orders Sale The court eventually ordered the sale of Despite their hardships, the Taxiarchis crewmembers were extremely appreciative of the Ta.xiarchis at auction, and on February the charitable efforts made by the Seamen's Friend House, the International Transport 3, another Greek shipping company Workers Federation (ITF), the SIU and many other groups. The stranded mariners last bought the vessel for $310,000. The new owner ordered the crew off the month returned to their respective homelands. ship in mid-February. But the seamen were rescued by a local hotel owner who donated rooms for them. The crew spent its time there and at the Seamen's Friend House, where they had access to church services, meals, recreation, telephone services and reading material. ''We stayed in our rooms. What could we do?Wecannotworkhere. Wehadnopapers, no visas," Israel Quiroz, one of the crewmembers, told a Newport News newspaper. --------------- "It's criminal, the way those men were treated ... The seamen were little more than indentured slaves. " - Alice Reese Thomas, Director, Seamen's Friend House (Thomas noted that the lengthy case has drained the Seamen's Friend House's annual budget. Donations may be sent to: International Seamen's Friend House, 128 32nd Street, Newport News, VA 23607, or call (804) 247-6113.) The crew's lawyers eventually settled out of court, accepting roughly 65 percent of the $108,000 in back wages owed to the men. The mariners agreed to the settlement in part because there was a strong chance the courts would have awarded them less, since they had to battle other creditors for part of the ship's $310,000 selling price. Most of the men received only about $2,000 dollars apiece-this for a period spanning nearly one year. "These conditions wouldn't happen if the flag states verified the conditions of the ships, or if they verified the financial status of the companies that buy them," noted Edd Morris, the SIU' s ITF inspector. "Anotherpartofthe problem is thatcrewmembers are lied to when they're recruited," he added. 'They're lied to about wages and working conditions. Once they're on board and they find out about the lies, it's too late. Their countries won't do anything for them, so they're basically trapped." �MAY1995 SEAFARERS LOG 5 GL Towing Pact Ratified by Crews Seafarers who sail aboard Great Lakes Towing harbor tugs in the Great Lakes region have approved a new five-year contract that will cover their wages, benefits and working conditions into the year 2000. "Negotiations were very satisfying and the new contract is fantastic," Deckhand Don Thornton told the Seafarers LOG. "The wage increase is significant and we have the gurantee of stable employment and benefits for next five years. It gives Great Lakes Towing Seafarers a good outlook on their future with things in the everyday world changing so fast," statedThornton, who was part of the SIU negotiating committee. "The SIU did an excellent job in negotiating the new contract and represented the membership very well. I came out of negotiations feeling proud and happy," concluded Thornton. Joining the deckhand from Detroit on the negotiating committee were SIU Vice President Great Lakes Byron Kelley, Representative Timothy Kelley, Patrolman Ken Horner, Deckhands Mike Lock of Toledo, Tim McKenna of Cleveland, Ray Smith of Ashtabula, Ohio and Mike McCormick of Rockwood, Mich. Representatives for the Seafarers and the company held eight negotiating sessions beginning in early January and ending on March 31. The meetings took place in Detroit and at the company's The SIU negotiating committee included (from left) Deckhands Don Thornton, Mike Lock, Tim McKenna, Ray Smith and SIU Algonac Patrolman Ken Horner. Not pictured is Deckhand Mike McCormick. headquarters in Cleveland. A review copy of the new contract was mailed to each SIU member employed by Great Lakes Towing. Once all Seafarers had a chance to examine the proposed contract, voting meetings were called for crewmembers across the Great Lakes. Seafarers discussed the new pact, and an appointed port steward called the Algonac union hall with questions posed by the members. Once all questions had been answered, Seafarers voted on the contract. The port steward counted the votes and called the Algonac hall with the results. The tugs, all named after U.S. states, accompany vessels in need of assistance into and out of ports along all five Great Lakes. The primary ports serviced by the SIU-crewed tugs are Duluth, Minn.; Superior, Green Bay, Milwaukee and Oak Creek, Wis.; Chicago, Indiana Harbor and Buffington Harbor, Ill.; Detroit and Sault Ste. Marie, Mich.; Toledo, Lorain, Cleveland, Ashtabula and Conneaut, Ohio; Buffalo, N.Y; and Erie, Pa. Seafarers Approve 10-Year Crowley RO/RO Accord Seafarers who sail aboard Crowley American Transport vessels have approved a new 10-year contract that improves wages as well as medical and fringe benefits into the next century. The agreement, retroactive to January 1 of this year, will cover SIU members sailing on the roll-on/roll-off vessels Sea Fox, Sea Lion, Sea Wolf, Senator, Ambassador, American Condor and American Falcon. "The SIU always seeks to advance the job security of its members and this contract does that. It will keep the seven vessels running efficiently and provide employment for our members for many years," said SIU Vice President Contracts Augustin Tellez. Although the agreement for wages and shipping rules goes back to January 1, medical benefits provided by the new pact do not take effect until May 1 because of previous contract obligations. As of that date, anyone who has been employed regularly on Crowley American Transport ships will be eligible for Seafarers Welfare Plan benefits and coverage. This includes spouses and dependents of Seafarers. Beneficiary Cards Needed To participate in the Seafarers Welfare Plan, all dependents must be listed on a member's beneficiary carcl. The beneficiary cards can be obtained on board vessels and at hiring halls. Seafarers also can receive a Seafarers Welfare Plan lxloklet at their union hall, aboard their ship or by requesting a copy in writing from the Seafarers Welfare Plan Office at 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. If a Seafarer is sick or hurt prior to May 1 and is receiving treatment, it will be covered under the original program until treatment is concluded. Pregnancies prior to May 1 also will be covered under the old program. SIU members aboard the Crowley vessels will continue to file for vacation and claim their vacation checks as they have in the past. The new collective bargainging agreement provides wage increases for SIU members during the first five years of the pact. During the last years of the contract, there will be contract openers between the union and the company to renegotiate wages, overtime rates and fringe benefits for the remainder of the agreement. Seafarers were presented with the contract and ratified the pact through a show of hands aboard their respective vessels. The Sea Fox, Sea Lion and Sea Wolf sail between the U.S. East Coast and South America. The Senator and Ambassador sail between Miami and Central America. The American Condor and American Falcon operate on military charters. The Seafarers negotiating committee included Tellez, SIU Assistant Vice President Dave Heindel and SIU Dania, Fla. Port Representative Ambrose Cucinotta. Negotiations were held in Dania. Signing on the Sea Fox in Port AB Doug Lawton adjusts a safety lashing on one of the Senator's EPA-certified QMED Bradley Everglades is AB Chris Conway. inflatable life rafts during the ship's stay in Port Everglades, Fla. Geidnerexaminesthepressureon a refrigeration unit on the Senator. Between the Americas ... The booming export/import trade between the U.S. and Latin America provides constant cargoes for Crowley's fleet of seven roll-on/roll-off ships. Seafarers on the Sea Fox, one of the RO/RO ships, sail from the East Coast of the U.S. to South America on a 42-day run, while the ABs Michael Williams (left) and crew of the Senator makes a 14-day trip between southern U.S. ports Ishmael Bryan are two members and Central America. covered by the new pact on the Crowley American's Senator. {]/'··~ Senator QMED Robert E. Lee checks the connections for a GSU Porfirio Alvarez brews up a Overseeing the evening meal is AB Larry Vouga maintains radio contact while working on the delivery of diesel oil. fresh pot of coffee on the Senator. Senator Chief Cook George Sapp. Senator's heeling tank pumps. �6 SEAFARERS LOG MAY1995 New Bedford Seafarers Seek Alternative Fishing Sites Action Necessitated by Federal Restrictions to Rebuild New England Groundfish Stocks To ensure continued fishing opportunities for SIU fishermen based in New Bedford, Mass., Port Agent Henri Francois and other representatives from that area's fishing industry traveled to Cape Verde to investigate fishing opportunities on the island nation off the west co~st of Africa. The trip in late March allowed Francois, Armando Estudante (the owner of an SIU-contracted fishing vessel in New Bedford), Elsie Sousa from U.S. Representative Barney Frank's (DMass.) staff and others to inspect fish holding and port facilities in Cape Verde that could be used by fishing vessels from the New Bedford fleet. The group from Massachusetts also met with Cape Verde government officials and fishermen to learn as much as Maritime Briefs 11 possible before making any commitments to bring part of the New Bedford fleet to fish the waters off the island nation. In his report about the trip, Francois noted Cape Verde facilities could handle the needs of the New Bedford fleet. He also pointed out that residents of the nation speak English and Portuguese, as do many of the SIU fishermen from New Bedford. The trip had been set up by Rep. Frank, whose district ineludes New Bedford. The congressman and his staff had held Discussing the possibilities with Cape Verde officials of SIU fishermen from New Bedford, Mass. fishing off the coast of the island nation are officials prior to the March visit by (left to right) Elsie Sousa of U.S. Rep. Barney Frank's office, SIU Port Jail Sentences Imposed the New Bedford delegation. Agent Henri Francois, Dana Morse of the National Marine Fisheries For Marine Oil Pollution Frank and others have taken an Service and U.S. Consul for Cape Verde Teofilo J. Rose. Federal indictments have been handed down to Pedro Rivera, 11 ~======================:.1 several meetings with Cape Verde general manager of the Bunker Group, Puerto Rico, and three companion companies for their roles in the 1994 oil spill off the coast of San Juan, P.R. in which the barge Morris J. Berman lost more than 650,000 gallons of heavy number 6 bunker oil after running aground. Rivera faces up to five years in prison, if convicted, and the companies may have to pay fines of more than $100 million. In another case, Evelyn Berman Frank was ordered to begin a three-year sentence for violating her probation from a previous indictment for pollution of Newark Bay and the New Jersey shore. Her family's tug, barge and tank-cleaning companies have been banned from doing maritime business in New York because of environmental acddents. New Jersey records reveal a connection between New England Marine (one of the three companion companies of the Bunker Group which operated the Morris J. Berman) and the Frank family Shipping Groups Excluded From WTO's Maritime Talks U.S. and European/Japanese shipping lobbies recently were denied admittance to the World Trade Organization (WTO) meetings on maritime transport, reportedly because the newly created parent organization wants only government representatives to participate in its talks. The WTO, an international body designed to govern commerce among nations, was created through passage last year of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT), a voluminous and complex trade deal. Maritime services were not included in the GATT, but the U.S., the European Union and five other countries are set to resume negotiations on shipping. They have until June 1996 to reach an agreement on liberalizing maritime transportation. The SIU opposed GATT' s passage and believes maritime should be excluded from the pact. CG Bill Would Revise Inspection Standards The House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee is expected to mark up the fiscal-year 1996 Coast Guard authorization bill soon. (Mark up is the process of preparing a bill for its next step in the legislative process.) Among the bill's provisions are measures that would alter Coast Guard standards for design, construction and inspection ofU.S.-flag vessels, with the intent of making U.S. standards comparable to international ones. The provisions would allow the Coast Guard to implement the Management Code for the Safe Operation of Ships and for Pollution Prevention adopted in the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS). They also would permit the agency to rely on reports and documents of third parties to carry out ship inspections, and allow "model" companies to self-inspect their vessels; approve construction equipment for use on private U.S. ships that foreign governments, in line with SOLAS standards, have approved; issue a certificate of inspection every five years instead of the current two; and allow recognized foreign classification societies to conduct inspections and examinations of ships. The House of Representatives approved similar language when it passed the FY '95 Coast Guard authorization bill last year. However, the Senate never acted upon the measure. ~ ~ ~ David Sanders Named Acting Administrator For St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corp. David Sanders, chiefof stafffor the St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corp., has been named its acting administrator. The 35-year-old Sanders replaces Stan Parris, who has held the position since 19'J 1. The St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corp. oversees U.S. interests on that waterway, which links the Great Lakes and the Atlantic Ocean. active interest in assisting the Massachusetts fishing industry in finding alternative fishing sites for the fleet because the U.S. government continues to impose stricter rules that further reduce the amount of groundfish (cod, haddock and yellowtail flounder) allowed to be caught during the next five to seven years. Last fall, reports issued by biologists with the New England Fishery Management Council stated that fish stocks off the New England coast had col- lapsed, and efforts to catch these stocks would have to be reduced to levels approaching zero. Last spring, SIU fishermen led protests over the restrictions being imposed on groundfish fishing. As a result of the protests, the federal government provided an aid package of $30 million to assist the New England fishing industry. The SIU is working with its members to secure grants to explore the feasibility of switching New Bedford fishermen from groundfish to mackerel fishing. Although mackerel is a less lucrative market than groundfish, its stock is in good shape. Also working to help the New Bedford fishing fleet is U.S. Senator Edward Kennedy (DMass.), whose staff is looking into a venture that would allow part of the fleet to fish in the waters off the coast of Argentina in South America. Coast Guard Ceases Fee Collection For Merchant Mariner's Documents Union Presses for Refunds Retroactive to 1993 Responding to a federal court order pertaining to a lawsuit filed by the SIU, the U.S. Coast Guard stopped charging a $17 fee for background checks when seamen apply for merchant mariner's documents (z-cards) or licenses as of December 5, 1994. The union also continues to press the federal agency to refund the $17 charged to all mariners who have paid the fee since it was implemented in 1993. The Coast Guard has stated it is not obligated to do this. In a letter sent to the Coast Guard last month, the SIU pointed out the Supreme Court has ruled several times that when such a fee or charge has been declared illegal, it should be considered retroactive to the time of implementation. The union said it considers "any continuing refusal by the Coast Guard to refund these fees ... to be not substantially justified." In his decision of November 23, 1994, U.S. District Court Judge Louis F. Oberdorfer declared the $17 fee to be illegal because the background checks conducted by the FBI did not benefit mariners but were for "primarily maritime safety." The Coast Guard, an agency within the Department of Transportation, started collecting the $17 as part of the overall fees charged for z-cards and licenses in a program implemented on April 19, 1993. Four days earlier, the SIU, other maritime unions and five individual mariners filed the suit against implementation of all such fees. Because the union had not been notified that the Coast Guard was complying with the judge's orders, the SIU, on behalf of all the plaintiffs in the case, wrote the agency in a letter dated March 16 that the collection of the $17 background check fee should end. Centers Notified In its reply of March 29, the federal agency said it had notified all the regional examination centers to stop charging the fee as of December 5, 1994. The letter noted that some mariners had been charged since the cutoff date and efforts are under way to refund the money. The letter also asked the SIU to notify the Coast Guard if the union was aware of any additional cases where the $17 fee was charged after December 5 so corrective action could be taken. Additionally, Judge Oberdorfer ordered the Coast Guard to recalculate the way it determines the costs for z-cards and licenses. Presently, fees range from $35 for issuing an entry-level merchant mariner's document to $250 for an upper-level license. In its March 16 letter, the SIU asked the Coast Guard for an update on this issue. The federal agency replied that it still is working on the recalculations and does not expect to have the new figures before July of this year. Deficit-Cutting Measure User fees for z-cards and licenses were implemented by the Coast Guard after Congress passed and President Bush signed the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1990. The legislation intended to reduce the federal deficit. Within the act, Congress removed a longstanding prohibition on the charging of fees for z-cards and licenses. The Coast Guard issued its proposal to charge user fees in 1991, allowing for a comments period. The SIU challenged the agency's action with a series of strong protests. The Coast Guard announced on March 19, 1993 that it would begin collecting the user fees as of April 19, 1993. The SIU-along with the District 4-National Maritime Union/MEBA, District No. 1-Marine Engineers' Beneficial Association, American Maritime Officers, International Association of Masters, Mates and Pilots, Sailors' Union of the Pacific, Marine Firemen's Union and five individual mariners-filed suit in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia on April 15, 1993 to stop the collection of all fees associated with z-cards and licenses because they constituted an illegal work tax on mariners. In his ruling of November 23, 1994, the judge denied that the user fees were a work tax because mariners benefit from being documented and licensed. The SIU and others have challenged that decision and filed on January 20 an appeal with the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. Likewise, the Coast Guard has appealed Judge Oberdorfer's rulings to stop charging for background checks and recalculate the fees charged for z-cards and licenses. No date has been set for either case. �SEAFARERS LOG MAY1995 7 Advisory Group Analyzes Inland Training Needs The Paul Hall Center's Inland Advisory Board Subcommittee met on April 26 at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. to discuss the industry's training needs and to review the full slate of new courses now available for boatmen at the school. The subcommittee also reviewed new and possible regulations affecting inland waterway shipping. Representatives from the SIU, Seafarers-contracted inland operators and instructors from the Lundeberg School comprise the group, which was formed by the school and is part of the Inland Towboat Advisory Board. The Board's primary mission is to make recommendations regarding the school's curriculum for boatmen. (Both the Board and the subcommittee are volunteer groups formed by the school.) As in years past, representatives from the U.S. Coast Guard also attended the meeting of the Inland Towboat Advisory Board Subcommittee. They :~;~;~?:n~u~~t~o~~~~~~~;e~~~~ cludmg the recently issued The instructors also reiterated that the Lundeberg School is able and willing to customize classes to meet the particular training needs of individual companies, and that such training may be made available at SIU halls. "In order for everyone to get the most out of these classes, we have to have effective communication between the school and companies," said Malzkuhn. New Political Climate Terry Turner, the SIU's director of legislative affairs, presented the subcommittee with an overview of the new political climate on Capitol Hill and how it may affect several key pieces of maritime legislation. "Maritime has always enjoyed bipartisan support, but there's still a lot of work to be done," Turner said. He noted that the Jones Act and cargo preference programs are under attack, as are the Federal Maritime Commis- Members of the Lundeberg School's Inland Advisory Board subcommittee discuss the selection of new courses available at the Paul Hall Center for Seafarers who sail in the inland division. sion (FMC) and the Shipping Act of 1984. (The Jones Act calls for cargo transported between domestic ports to be carried by U.S.-flag and U.S.-owned ships and crewed by American mariners. Cargo preference programs require that set percentages of Department of Defense and Department of Agriculture cargoes be carried on U.S.-flag vessels.) In addition to fighting to preserve the FMC and the aforementioned legislation, the SIU this year is pushing for measures that would raise safety standards by improving towing procedures, licensing boatmen, documenting boatmen and estab- lishing manning levels, Turner said. (Those measures nearly were enacted last year as amendments to the Coast Guard Authorization Act, but died in the Senate.) SIU Executive Vice President Joseph Sacco welcomed the group and pointed out that the Lundeberg School, in addition to expanding the amount of handson training in its classes, also "has renewed the emphasis of teaching upgraders about the industry's big picture. They need to be fully aware of their responsibilities to be safe, productive workers. And we want to make sure you have the best and most competent and most qualified people." In attendance were Dave Brown and Bill Ferguson of Orgulf, Art Knudsen of McAllister of Norfolk, Va., Don Ivins and Stan Latka of Express Marine, Bob Baumann and John Burns of Maritrans, David Kish of Delta Queen Steamboat Co., Jeff Parker of Allied Towing of Norfolk, Va. and Herb Walling of Moran Towing of Connecticut. Also present were Leo Braun of Dixie Carriers, Charlie Nalen of Crowley of Seattle, Tom Kelly of Sheridan Transportation, Tom Bethel and Bob Kiefer of the American Maritime Officers, and Coast Guard representatives Randy Dekroney, Craig Bone and Greg Cope. ITF, Coast Guard Reps Tackle Safety Issues ~~~~:~~~~~~~11;:;~~:::~;0~~=~ Participants Strive to Strengthen International Maritime Standards ment. New Courses Lundeberg School instructors J.C. Wiegman, Eric Malzkuhn and Jim Brown reviewed some of the new courses available to inland Seafarers at Piney Point. They also conveyed to the companies the feedback received by Seafarers who have taken the classes. Since last year, the school has established a curriculum that is specially designed for inland members, whose time-off requirements are different from those of members who sail on deep sea vessels. Those courses include deck-inland, radar observer/inland and radar observer/ rivers, engineroom familiarization, diesel engine maintenance, electrical, hydraulics, welding and DDE/limited license preparation (see page 23 for a schedule of upcoming classes). Also during the past year, Lundeberg School instructors conducted a nationwide series of refrigeration technician classes and radar operation courses in order to enable all Seafarers to comply with the latest environmental regulations. Brown outlined the various radar courses offered at the Paul Hall Center and explained who needs which type of certification. He also stated that the most recent additions to the school's fleet of training vessels feature several different types of radar, which will be utilized by upgraders in the radar courses. Malzkuhn and Wiegman, with plenty of feedback from company representatives, led a discussion about how the various companies and the boatmen who are in their employ can make the best use of the inland courses, from timely scheduling to choosing the mostneeded training. Representatives from the Seafarers' Sec~ ··· tion of the International Transport Workers ,, Federation (ITF) and the U.S. Coast Guard met April 7 at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, ,.........._..~ Md., to discuss a wide range of maritime safety issues. SIU officials and Lundeberg School representatives also participated in the day-long meeting, which largely focused on upcoming l~!!fl!!ft"3 revisions to the International Convention of the Standards of Training, Certification and _ .., Watchkeeping (STCW). The conference was scheduled in order to / capitalize on the presence of more than two • dozen ITF delegates who already were in llJ Maryland to conduct meetings of the ITF's Maritime Safety Committee. (The safety committee, which strives to protect mariners' rights, planned strategy for the Diplomatic ITF delegates meet with U.S. Coast Guard officials last month at the Paul Hall Center to Conference of the STCW, scheduled to take discuss maritime safety issues. SIU officials also participated in the day-long conference. place June 26 through July 7 .) "I know you're aware of the forces who certification, training and skills needed by serious problem, and we must find a soluare fighting against the international move- mariners worldwide. (Signatory nations may tion," he said. Joseph Angelo, associate program direcment for improved safety," said SIU Presi- have more stringent rules than the ones set out tor from the Coast Guard's Office of Marine dent Michael Sacco in welcoming in the STCW.) During last month's meeting at Piney Safety, Security and Environmental Protecparticipant to the one-day meeting. "They not only don't want stricter standards, they Point, Sven-Eric Nylund, an ITF/IMO coor- tion, urged representatives from other nations dinator and representative of the Finnish to join together in defeating the proposal to want to escape the ones that already exist. "It' s a serious threat, and that's why the Ship's Officers Union, outlined the ITF's include solo bridge watch at night in the SIU supports you and joins with you in your main goals for revision of the STCW, the vast STCW revisions. He also gave a detailed presentation on the majority of which the SIU supports. They efforts." Coast Guard's port state control initiative, as include: •raising the training and competence level an example of what the U.S. has done to 500-Plus Unions identify and correct safety hazards on ships The ITF is based in London and is com- for all categories of mariners • introducing mandatory rest periods and calling at American ports. The 25-year-old prised of more than 500 unions-repreprogram was revised in May 1994, in part to senting individuals employed in the maximum hours of work • maintaining existing requirements on help the Coast Guard "take a harder line maritime, rail, trucking and airline industries against substandard ships" by strictly enforc- from 110 nations. The SIU is a member of sea-going service • retaining the watchkeeping provisions in ing international treaties, Angelo said. the ITF' s Seafarers' Section, whose primary During the past year, Coast Guard interobjective is to eliminate runaway shipping the STCW, including night lookout • making basic safety training mandatory ventions rose to 273, compared with 55 the and secure a link between a vessel's flag and previous year. the nationality of its owner. The group' s for all seafarers, and Sacco summed up the focus of the meeting second objective is protecting and improving Obstacles to Safety when he said, "During the past couple of the conditions of employment of seafarers Throughout the day, participants pin- meetings on the STCW, foreign-flag serving aboard flag-of-convenience vessels, as well as ensuring that those mariners are pointed some of the main obstacles to inter- shipowners have consistently tried to weaken existing international standards for safety and protected from exploitation by shipowners, national maritime safety. Ake Selander, ITF assistant general training. They want to reduce manning levels ship managers and manning agents. Like other maritime organizations secretary, noted that "crew cost is the main and cut back on training requirements . .. . throughout the world, the ITF has been source of competition between shipowners. They say shipowners should be able to police preparing for this summer' s meetings to up- That leads directly to exploitation and to themselves. They want voluntary compliance, voluntary surveillance and voluntary date the STCW. That 17-year-old agreement, deplorable conditions." Sacco raised the issue of seamen in certain reporting. administered by the International Maritime "We might just as well ask inmates to lock Organization (IMO) and adopted by more nations purchasing certificates for any rating, than 90 countries, sets minimum standards for regardless of their work experience. "It's a the jailhouse doors at night." �8 MAY1995 SEAFARERS LOG Clinic Opens for Texas Boatmen Full Range of Medical Services Available for Inland Members The SIU has entered into a contract with the Tower Medical Center of Nederland (Texas) which will provide inland members and their dependents with workrelated and routine medical examinations, diagnoses and treatments. Located at 2100 Highway 365 in Nederland, the clinic is approximately 80 miles from the Houston hall. ''The facility was selected," said Dr. Kenneth Miller, Seafarers Welfare Plans medical director, "in an effort to address the need for annual physical examinations for our inland members who are employed aboard Moran, Higman, Sabine and Crowley tugs and dredges." Taking advantage of the convenient location, Kenneth Moore receives his annual physical examination at the new Nederland clinic. Moore works aboard Sabine Towing vessels as a chief engineer. Experience With Mariners He added that The Tower Medical Center was referred to the union as an excellent clinic in the area because of its long-standing interest and experience in evaluations of maritime employees, as well as workers in other occupational settings, particularly those in the petroleum industry. The Tower Medical Center staff of 15 includes doctors, nurses and technicians who are able to provide all the medical services required by Seafarers, including annual physical examinations and drug and benzene tests. The center also is able to perform hearing and vision tests, Xrays, stress tests and other diagnostic studies. Open Six Days a Week The Tower Medical Center of Nederland is open six days a week: Monday Thursday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Inland members, their dependents and pensioners wishing to utilize the services of the clinic should contact the Houston hall one or two days in advance so that eligibility can be determined and the necessary paperwork can be processed and Boatmen along the Texas-Louisiana border can get physicals and medical attention at the Tower Medical Center. sent over before the scheduled appointment. Those members requiring MSC-related services or deep sea medical evaluations should continue to use the services of the Houston clinic, located at Med. Place 1, Suite 1605. Ex-Seafarer Discovers Hidden Sea Treasures A life of sailing the world's seas inspires many Seafarers to take up maritime-related special interests and hobbies. For former SIU member Nelson Jecas, that special passion has become deep sea treasure hunting. Jecas first became interested in discovering hidden treasures of the ocean, following his 1960 graduation from the Andrew Furuseth Training School in Brooklyn, N.Y. "I was 18 years old when a buddy and I decided that we wanted to go to sea," recalled Jecas. "The training that I received was excellent," Jecas told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG. Shortly after sailing for the SIU, Jecas went to work with a private organization which performed scientific research of the sea. It was at this time Jecas began collecting various artifacts from the bottom of the sea that had been preserved over time by sand and salt water. "I began finding old coins, bottles and lighters which have been dated from the early 1900s. It stirred my interest and I thought that I might be able to find more at the bottom of the ocean," noted the former engine department member. "I am mainly interested in finding old Navy stuff from where ships have sunk. I also have read a lot about pirates who used to bury their treasures," added Jecas. "I am still looking for my chest of gold." Jecas also has found medieval artifacts and an iron anchor from the tum of the century. While he likes to keep some of his treasures for use in shows, he donates many to museums. J ecas now owns his own watch- and clock-repair business, but his spare time is devoted to discovering treasures of the sea. He spends a lot of time visiting museums and libraries as well as researching old shipwrecks and determining where ships have sunk. Jecas primarily hunts for treasures along the New Jersey and Delaware coast but will occasionally travel to the coast of Florida and to the Caribbean. While much of Jecas's findings are simple treasures, a recent find proved to be perhaps his most fascinating treasure to date. Following a storm off the coast of New Jersey, Jecas hit the beach with his metal detector, his normal routine for discovering seaside treasures. This time he came upon what he described as his "biggest find yet." "I discovered a metal chest near the shore under two feet of water," recalled Jecas, who added that the chest may have been washed to shore during the storm. "It had an etched picture of a ship on top, and when I opened it up I found a leather carrying case labeled with a U.S. Merchant Marine embJem and stamped with 'Seaman' s Identification Papers,"' stated Jecas. Inside the leather case, Jecas found a ribbon and a picture of a man in a U.S. Navy uniform. According to Frank Braynard, historian for the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, N.Y. who examined the articles, the seaman's leather case dates from near the end of World War II. The photograph is unidentified, but the uniform has been determined to be what was worn by Navy personnel near the turn of the century. Jecas noted that the metal box appears to be much older than the seaman's wallet. "It is probably something that this person inherited from someone like his father or grandfather who was also a seaman," noted Jecas. "This find will keep me going. I really hope to find even bigger and better remnants of the sea, but for now I am really proud to have discovered such a treasure," concluded Jecas. Nelson Jecas, a former engine department member, holds the metal case he found nearthe shore. For Ombec, Creativity Is the Key Discovered inside a submerged metal chest was this zippered leather case (see inset), perfectly preserved by sand and salt water. In it, Nelson Jecas found a photograph of a man in a U.S. Navy uniform and a military ribbon, dating from the turn of the century. Anyone who may have information about the background of the photograph and ribbon may contact Jecas through the Seafarers LOG. To be a chief steward aboard an SIU-crewed ship, creativity with the menu is important in making a long voyage a success for those on board. For Ed Ombac, that creativity extends into his private life as well. Ombac enjoys creating and carving objects out of wood and ice. These skills have come in handy when he has sailed in the steward department aboard American Hawaii Cruises passenger ships. Recently he learned a new skill in his spare time while completing the recertified steward class at the Lundeberg School. During evening sessions at the Lundeberg School's arts and crafts department, Ombac designed and built out of newspaper a scale model of a fishing boat found in the South Pacific. Following the March membership meeting at Piney Point, Md., the steward presented the model to the school. "I like to use my imagination," Ombac told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG. "I enjoy making things." The model, recycled from earlier editions of the LOG, features a small house with a thatched roof, oars and a sail made from cloth. The vessel is just a Ii ttle more than a foot in length and took about one Ed Ombec (right) shows off his paper model of a fishing boat to SIU Executive VP Joseph Sacco. week to build. �SEAFARERS LOG MAY1995 9 Tanker Course Stresses Accident Prevention One of the central goals of the Paul Hall Center's tanker operation/ safety course is to emphasize and illustrate the critical need to prevent oil spills, shipboard fires and other potential problems related to tanker operations. With that in mind, Seafarers who take the course receive detailed instruction on how to prevent accidents, as well as what to do in case a mishap should occur. Last month, 35 upgraders representing all departments became the third class to complete the course this year. (For Seafarers who sail in the deck or engine departments, the class lasts four weeks. For steward department members, it is a two-week course.) Pumpman Paul Lewis said that, overall, the course will help him by making him even more safety conscious when he resumes sailing. The four-year member of the SIU, who lives in San Diego and ships from the port of Wilmington, Calif., noted, "The instructors in the tanker course are well-versed on the technology we need to know aboard our ships." Questions Answered Chief Pumpman Keith Donovan commended the Lundeberg School instructors for "answering any and all questions." Donovan, whose home port is New Orleans and who resides in Pensacola, Fla., singled out the hazardous materials training as a course highlight. The class is required for all Seafarers who sail on tankers. When the SIU and Seafarerscon tracted companies agreed during negotiations to establish the tanker operation/safety course, and when Lundeberg School instructors developed the curriculum, a number of course objectives were set. Besides stressing prevention, they include: increasing Seafarers' awareness of various provisions of the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (OPA '90) as well as their impact on the tanker industry • instilling greater knowledge of the hazards and characteristics of products carried aboard tankers broadening students' familiarity with the shipboard duties, including safety responsibilities, of various crewmembers bolstering members' firefighting skills through a mix of hands-on training and classroom instruction • providing comprehensive studies of tanker construction and safety, and more. Instructors seek to accomplish those and other goals by overseeing hands-on exercises such as confined-space safety training and rescue operations, as well as fit-tests using respirators, taking meter readings with atmospheric monitoring equipment and creating site-specific shipboard safety plans. Topics covered in the classroom include fire chemistry, rules for protecting the marine environment, inert gas systems, chemical and physical properties of petroleum products, federal regulations, chemical data guides and more. Student Feedback A key part of the new class, particularly during the first few months of this year, has been student feedback. Upgraders are encouraged to fill out written critiques of the class, and they also verbally have given suggestions for refining parts of the As part of the course curriculum, upgraders practice donning the proper protective clothing for hazardous materials operations. 'D Members of the latest tanker operation/safety course meet with SIU Executive VP Joseph Sacco (left) to discuss the long-range effects that OPA '90 and other safety-related laws are having on the industry. course curriculum. "As planned, we' re getting ready to re-evaluate the program," noted Bill Eglinton, director of the Lundeberg School's vocational The tanker operation/safety education department. "The stu- class is scheduled to be conducted dent feedback has been excellent, at the center each month during and we will utilize their input." this year. Boatmen Use Moore's Landing As Staging Area for Tugs/Barges Moore's Landing near Wyatt, Mo. is a place that does not exist on tourist maps. But for Seafarers who ply the waterways of the Mississippi, Illinois and Ohio rivers aboard Orgulf Transportation tugboats, it is the busiest water terminal in the region and is known as the hub of the entire industry. Moore's Landing, as it was dubbed by the company, is a small inlet on the Mississippi River. Orgulf uses Moore's Landing as its transfer or staging area for upper and lower river tugs and barges. Because the Mississippi is wider south of Moore's Landing, the river can handle additional traffic. Orgulf operates larger tugs with up to 35 barges on this part of the river. North of Moore's Landing, Orgulf tugs have to deal with narrow waterways and locks. The company runs smaller tugs that push up to 15 barges, depending on conditions. At Moore's Landing, the company moves the barges to make up the proper tows for their final destinations. Orgulf Transportation, which is based in Cin- cinnati, Ohio, carries mulch, coal, scrap and other dry cargoes on its barges along the Mississippi and its tributaries. When the tugs pushing the barges reach Moore's Landing, they are broken up to create new tows in order to reach their final destinations. "Moore's Landing is a place that is always bustling with activity. At any given time there can be well over 100 barges tied together waiting to be picked up and transported elsewhere," said SIU Representative Becky Sleeper, who provided the photos accompanying this article. ''The Orgulf tugs run on a 30-day schedule, so Reporting to the Omar's this is the only lengthy crew lounge for a spestop in a very busy cial safety meeting is Utilityman David Bryant. schedule," she noted. Twin Cities Cook Dorlis Organizing stores Utilityman Bill Brown Ready for the Robert Taylor signs in at the aboard the Robert Stout contacts the pilot house Stout meeting is Utilityunion meeting. is Cook Pam Johnston. on board the J.N. Phillips. man David Johnson. �10 MAY1995 SEAFARERS LOG Union Gains Pay, Benefits Package For Crews Affected by 5-L Flag Switch Continued from page 3 for other companies before returning to another Sea-Land vessel two years ago as a bosun and has sailed regularly aboard Sea-Land vessels since then. Having lost his bosun job on one of the reflagged vessels, he would be considered as having three years of service to Sea-Land for the severance payment.) In consideration of the other unlicensed jobs aboard the five reflagged Sea-Land vessels, in lieu of severance the company will pay into a special pool within the SIU employee benefit plans. The money contributed by Sea-Land will be used to help Seafarers adversely affected by the shrinking job pool created by the loss of the five ships. Plan representatives will meet in the near future to determine the guidelines for how the funds will be used. With regard to the benefits plan, Sea-Land will make regular contributions for the next two years based on what would have been paid had the five vessels not been reflagged. These funds will help keep the various plans sound and viable in order to provide benefits into the future. The union was able to reach this agreement with Sea-Land because of a variety of measures the SIU implemented as soon as the reflagging was approved by MarAd. The union immediately launched a strongly worded protest with MarAd over the SeaLand action, calling on the Department of Transportation agency to conduct public hearings to collect evidence on the impact that such a reflagging would have on the nation. The SIU noted that approval of the reflagging was premature because Congress is involved in enacting maritime revitalization legislation that will affect the Sea-Land fleet. Also, the union noted the U.S. military had stated its preference that the ships remain under the U.S.flag. At the same time, the union began investigating options open to it through the International Transport Workers Federation (ITF), the Londonbased organization whose membership includes most of the world's seafaring and long shore unions. The SIU has a long history with the ITF, going back more than 40 years. The ITF has long fought to improve the working conditions and wages for mariners, especially those from non-traditional maritime nations. With Sea-Land's decision to reflag the five vessels to the Marshall Islands, the SIU held meetings with ITF representatives to come up with ways of ensuring the Sea-Land vessels would meet internationally accepted safety and crewing standards. One such meeting took place in Felixstowe, England shortly before the recrewed Sea-Land Freedom was scheduled to make its first port visit there. (However, the vessel was re-routed just before its scheduled arrival.) Sea-Land began its effort to reflag part of its fleet in June 1993 when it applied to MarAd to House Panel Holds First Hearing Continued from page 3 Companies Urge Support Also testifying before the panel were representatives from SIU-contracted companies SeaLand Service, American President Lines, Crowley Maritime and Waterman Steamship. Speaking for the shipping companies, John Snow, the president of CSX Corporation, which owns Sea-Land, informed the elected officials that the companies also supported maritime her 1994 after the farm-state senators killed Senate consideration of the bill through a parliamentary procedure. (The bill had been passed by the House of Representatives with overwhelming bipartisan support.) International Options SIU Pushes Congress To Pass Maritime Bill foreign seamen refused to sail into the Persian Gulf to deliver materiel during Operation Desert Storm. Sacco stated maritime revitalization legislation is needed to keep America active in carriage of world trade. "Allowing foreign vessels to gain total control over our trade, especially as the United States moves to eliminate international trade barriers, would create an opportunity for economic blackmail. The United States can only realize the goals of free trade if it remains a full participant in all aspects of international trade, including shipping," he told the panel. transfer 13 containerships from the U.S.-flag to a foreign flag. That request was held up while Congress debated a maritime revitalization bill. The company filed a new petition to reflag five ships in Novem- The SIU has been working with elected officials from both parties to enact maritime revitalization legislation. Last month, the House Merchant Marine Oversight Panel held its first hearing on the Maritime Security Act, H.R. 1350, which calls for a 10-year, $1 billion program to provide funds for approximately 50 U.S.flag containerships. President Clinton has said he will sign maritime revitalization into law when it is passed by Congress. House Merchant Marine Panel Chairman Herbert H. Bateman (RVa.) stresses the importance for Congress to act quickly in passing a shipping bill. ------ revitalization legislation. Snow noted that passage of such a bill would be "a critical step forward in fostering an American liner fleet which is able to compete in world markets and provide substantial sealift in support of our armed forces." H.R. 1350 is awaiting action by the House National Security Committee, which has jurisdiction for the actions of the House Merchant Marine Oversight Panel. ~ ""'~ Working through the ITF, officials from the U.S. maritime unions affected by the reflagging of five Sea-Land vessels met in Felixstowe, England in March with representatives of the British dockers union. From the left are Mark Zalenski, District No. 1-MEBA secretary-treasurer; James Hopkins, MM&P secretary-treasurer; Trevor Kent, representative of Britain's Transportation and General Workers Union (TGWU); Peter Landles, TGWU secretary-convenor; John Fay, SIU secretary-treasurer; and John Sansone, ITF representative. Company: The Bron-Shoe Company UIW members at Bron-Shoe: Responsible for all manufacturing services, from order entry to processing to shipping Facilities: Production plant and headquarters in Columbus, OH Services provided: Baby shoe bronzing and silver restoration Distribution: Nationwide That's a fact: For information about bronzing or silver restoration services, ca/11-800-722-8464, extension 614. · Bron-Shoe is America's oldest and largest baby shoe bronzing company as well as the nation's largest silver restoration company. When Seafarers utilize the services of Bron-Shoe, they are putting their purchasing dollars to work for themselves and their fellow trade unionists. That is because within the family of unions which make up the Seafarers International Union of North America (to which the Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District belongs), there are workers who produce a wide variety of goods and services. When Seafarers buy products from companies like Bron-Shoe, they not only are getting the bestmade American goods, they also are supporting union workers. The United Industrial Workers (U/W) is one of the autonomous affiliates of the SIUNA, and employees of Bron-Shoe are U/W members. The Seatare rs LOG regularly highlights various union-made products and services. �SEAFARERS LOG MAY1995 11 Kids Rate a Piney Point Vacation Tops From left to right, posing at the entrance to the maritime center's grounds are cousin John, Jessie, cousin Emily and Bobby. Bobby and Jessica Darden, the children of AB cousins on trips to the maritime center. Their Jim Darden and his wife, Pam, consider the father notes, "There is never a shortage of volunPaul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. to be their teers to go to Piney Point. The children just love home away from home. In their short lives of 11 it so much, and every trip brings something new and 9 years respectively, the two children from Newville, Pa. have discovered something that many other Seafarers and their families also have experienced-a vacation at Piney Point is relax· ing, fun, adventurous and an all-around good time. Having made their first trip to the facility eight years ago, the Darden family has returned each year-sometimes twice a year-to enjoy the sprawling campus, tranquil waters and exquisite beauty surrounding the maritime center. Fishing, swimming, boating and crabbing are but a few of the activities which the Darden family enjoys while vacationing at Piney Point. Bobby and Jessica ("Jessie" as she is affectionately known by her family and friends) also enjoy meeting other children of Seafarers from all over the country. The Darden children often bring friends and for them, no matter how many times we visit." Several years ago, in fact, Jessie requested that her family travel to Piney Point each year to celebrate her birthday. True to her wishes, the family returns to the center for the special occasion, in addition to their annual family vacation at the site. On this page, are letters written by Jessie and Bobby about their vacations at Piney Point, as well as pictures of them at the center as they have grown over the years. Other Seafarers and their families also can create their own treasured times by indulging in a fun-filled Piney Point vacation. Filling out the application below and mailing it to the address listed is the first step in obtaining wonderful memories from a true family vacation at Piney Point. On board one of the center's vessels and ready for a day of sailing on the Chesapeake Bay are (from left to right) Jessie, cousin Emily (standing), cousin John and Bobby. Inset is a recent portrait of the Darden family. Jessie jumps off the diving board of the Olympic size pool at the Paul Hall Center. . I have been going to Piney Point X~:ce ~ was t~ree. Now I am eleven. I gomg to Pmey Point because there are many thinns to Ao 7i"" b ki 'b ~· ui · 11ere are as et. all courts, tennis courts and a P?ol. I like to crab off the pier. My d fnend Ritch takes me fishi~g ;%o;;s b?d:at. /n the summerI meetalot ofother kIS. The food there is great. Between meals and at night lunch there is ice ~ream. W!Jen dad and mom say it's ftme to go, we beg them so that we can s~ay one more night. There's also agift s op w~ere we go to shop before we :~~~· Ive had a great time there I ,. m hyou should go and have a vac~1/0n t ere too. SEAFARERS TRAINING & RECREATION CENTER-Vacation Reservation Information Number in party I ages of children, if applicable: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~- ! I Social Security number: _ _ _ _ _ __ Book number: _ _ _ __ Date of arrival: 1st choice 2nd choice A vacation stay at the Lundeberg School is limited to two weeks per family. Member $40.40/day $ 9.45/day Spouse $ 9.45/day Child Note: There is no charge for children 11 years of age or younger. The prices listed above include all meals. Stay is limited to a maximum of two weeks. Telephone number: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 1 3rd choice Date of departure _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Send this completed application to the Seafarers Training & Recreation Center, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674. _____ J �12 SEAFARERS LOG MAY1995 WHY POLITICAL ACTJ i4o Agencies, 100 C~ngressional Groups ~ The SIU continually represents the interests of its members before congressional groups considering legislation that, if passed, would impact the lives of Seafarers and their families. Above, SIU Executive Vice President Joseph Sacco recommends steps to promote a strong U.S.-flag shipping capability. THE HOUSE The following committees, subcomon International Relations mittees and panels have some form of Committee Oversight for U.S. relations with foreign jurisdiction over government programs nations; export controls; international that bolster the U.S. -flag fleet and impact commodity agreements; intervention abroad and declarations of war; protecon the lives of Seafarers who work in all tion of American citizens abroad; U.S. segments of the American maritime inCustoms administration; international dustry-deep sea bottoms, domestic fishing agreements. waterways towboats, Great Lakes vesSubcommittees: International Economic Policy and Trade sels, fishing boats, military support International Operations and Human ships, passenger carriers of all kinds, Rights among others. After the name of the committee and Committee on the Judiciary a description of what it does are names Oversight for treaties, conventions and international agreements; matters dealof subcommittees that have an oversight ing with mutiny. role on the merchant marine. Subcommittee: Immigration and Claims Committee on Agriculture Oversight for matters dealing with agriculture, including the farm bill and Committee on National Security Oversight for merchant marine; national cargo preference. defense and Department of Defense; Subcommittee: maintenance, operation and administraDepanment Operations, Nutlition and tion of interoceanic canals; Merchant Foreign Agliculture Marine Academy at Kings Point and state maritime academies; maintenance of Committee on Appropriations U.S. shipbuilding and repair yards. Oversight for raising the revenue to supSubcommittees: port the government and its operation. Military Readiness Subcommittees: Military Procurement Agliculture, Rural Development, FDA Panel: and Related Agencies Commerce, Justice, State, the Judiciary and Related Agencies Energy and Water Development Foreign Operations, Export Financing and Related Programs Interior and Related Agencies Labor, Health and Human Services Education and Related Agencies ' National Security Transportation and Related Agencies Veterans Affairs, HUD and Independent Agencies Merchant Marine Committee on Resources Oversight for fisheries management; mineral resources of public lands. Subcommittees: Fishelies, Wildlife and Oceans Energy and Mineral Resources Water and Power Resources Committee on Rules Oversight for how and when a bill will be considered by the House. Committee on the Budget Oversight for the federal budget; to study and evaluate the spending of federal Committee on Science taxes; to coordinate tax expenditures Oversight for scientific research, with federal policies and programs. development and demonstration. Subcommittees: Committee on Commerce Energy and Environment Oversight for interstate energy compacts; interstate and foreign commerce; Committee on Small Business measures dealing with storage, supply Oversight for assistance and protection and regulation of energy resources; of small business; participation of small measures related to the general managebusiness enterprises in federal procurement of the Department of Energy; nament and government contracts. tional energy policy; public health. Subcommittees: Subcommittees: Government Programs Commerce, Trade and Hazardous Procurement, Exports and Business Op· Matelials Health and Environment Energy and Power Telecommunications and Finance Committee on Economic and Educational Opportunities Oversight for labor and educational matters; labor statistics and standards; mediation and arbitration of labor disputes; wages and hours of labor. Subcommittees: Employer-Employee Relations Workforce Protections portunities Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure Oversight for flood control and improvement of rivers and harbors; oil and other pollution of navigable waters; public works for the benefit of navigation, including bridges and dams; water transportation subject to the jurisdiction of the Interstate Commerce Commission. Subcommittees: Coast Guard & Maritime Transportation Water Resources and Environment Committee on Gov't Reform and Oversight Committee on Ways and Means Oversight for Customs, collection disOversight for overall economy and eftricts and ports of entry and delivery; ficiency of federal government operareciprocal trade agreements; revenue tions and activities. measures; transportation of dutiable Subcommittees: goods. Civil Service Subcommittee: National Security, International Affairs and Criminal Justice Trade - - - - H E U.S. MARITIME industry is one of the most watched-over and regulated businesses in America. At the federal level alone, there are more than 140 agencies, bureaus and councils within the government as well as nearly 100 committees, subcommittees and panels in Congress that have some degree of jurisdiction over the U.S.-flag fleet and merchant mariners. Some of the agencies are obvious, like the Department of Transportation's Maritime Administration, which oversees the U .S .-flag merchant fleet, domestic shipbuilding and trade policies that affect the merchant marine. Others-such as the Senate and House committees on rules which determine how and when legislation within the Congress is discussed and voted upon-are not as clear to the casual observer. Also, these figures do not even begin to include the numerous regional, state and local agencies that oversee ports, inland waterways, the Great Lakes and fishermen. Federal Ties Are Strong Oversight of this nature is nothing new to the U.S. merchant marine. The industry had long been considered a ward of the nation with guidance coming THE from the federal government. In fact, as late as the end of the last century, mariners leaving their vessels prior to the end of a tour of duty were considered under federal law as deserters, punishable by imprisonment. However, these attitudes toward mariners and the industry began to change at the beginning of the 20th century. Andrew Furuseth, president of the International Seamen's Union, realized the need to lobby Congress and the federal government to change the laws affecting mariners. Despite being based in San Francisco, he took up residence in Washington, D.C. to fight for legislation for the fair treatment of merchant mariners. Furuseth worked with members of the administration and Congress. Through a friendship he made with Senator Robert Lafollette of Wisconsin, Furuseth was able to push Congress to pass and President Woodrow Wilson to sign the Seamen's Act of 1915. This law set minimum safety standards and removed many restrictions that had been in place which affected the lives and careers of merchant mariners. Because of Furuseth's diligence, mariners discovered how government, and being involved in the law-making process, could change their lives. The SIU has taken up this cause from its inception in 1938. The union has maintained a strong presence in Washington to push for laws to make shipping conditions and the industry better and stronger. SIU President P believer in the mem in political and leg motto, "Politics is a union rallying cry Hall was very act working condition. keeping the U.S. strong. He led the fi of the 1970 Merch first major piece enacted that was dir dustry since before, Today, with so federal governmen maritime matters, th remains. The union the watch through tributions of memb Political Action Dor gram. Already, in the this sessionofCongr taken up bills conce tankers carrying Al crude oil overseas a flag containerships. The SIU will b U.S.-flag bulker ind activities associated tion of a new farm bi legislation, which Seafarers who sail be included in the d Other issues tha Congress recently a again are inland w FEDERA L "~~ Defense Mapping Int'l. Cooperation and Development Among the confines of the federal International Trade Policy Personnel and Read government are various departments, Commodity Credit Corporation Joint Chiefs of Staff agencies and bureaus that have some Marketing and Regulatory Programs U.S. Transportatio form of oversight regarding U.S.-flag Marketing Programs Joint Transportati Logistics Directora International Services shipping operations and the activities of Manpower and Pe Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Seafarers whether they sail on the Ocean Policy Aff · Ad.ministration oceans, inland waterways and Great Natural Resources and Environment Policy and Strategi National Forest System Department of the Lakes or as fishermen. Watershed and Air Management Corps of Engineers For the purposes of this outline, the Military Traffic M federal government can be divided into Department of the N of Commerce three parts: the executive office of the Department Military Sealift Co Economic Development Administration president, the cabinet and independent Bureau of Export Administration Plans, Policy and Manpower and Res agencies. All three have offices, coun- International Trade Administration Civilian Personne cils and bureaus with jurisdiction over National Institute of Stds. & Technology Employment 0 Oceanic & Atmospheric Admin. the lives of Seafarers and the merchant Nat'l. National Marine Fisheries Service marine, which are listed. New England Fisheries Mgmt. Council Department of Energy Mid-Atlantic Fisheries Mgmt. Council The executive office of the president Energy Efficiency a Office of Federal E South Atlantic Fisheries Mgmt. Council is overseen by the president of the Gulf Fisheries Management Council Fossil Energy United States and his staff. The various Coal Technology Caribbean Fisheries Mgmt. Council groups with some involvement with the Pacific Fisheries Mgmt. Council Fuels Program merchant marine are listed below that North Pacific Fisheries Mgmt. Council Naval Petroleum Strategic Petrole Western Pacific Fish. Mgmt. Council title. National Ocean Service Office of Oil and Gas Within the cabinet-level departments National Security an National Weather Service are the many agencies and bureaus af- National Telecommunications & InformaManagement Progy Federal Energy R fecting the lives of Seafarers and the tion Administration Office of Pipeline R state of the merchant marine. Finally, independent agencies are not Department of Defense and Technology directly tied to the office of the president Acquisition Defense Logistics Agency or to any cabinet-level department. Defense Procurement However, some of them also deal with Command, Control, Communications and Intelligence issues and concerns of merchant mariners and their industry. All of these agencies are reviewed by Congress and receive their funding through congressional appropriations. EXecutive Office of the President ···········-············· --····· ···············--····-····-····················-·······-······-··-········-······-····-····-) Council on Economic Quality Domestic Policy Council Council of Economic Advisors Office of Intergovernmental Affairs Office of Legislative Affairs Office of Management and Budget National Security Council Office of the U.S. Trade Rep. ~~-~~~:-~~.!~I.~.~P.~~~~~~-------! Department of Agriculture Farm and Foreign Agri. Services Foreign Agricultural Service Commodity and Marketing Programs Foreign Agricultural Affairs Federal government departments and agencies have much t defends the interests of Seafarers before these government addresses a Department of Transportation meeting called to bill. Steve Edney, the union's national director of its industri on the need to end unfair taxation schemes that hurt Americ �SEAFARERS LOG MAY1995 13 ON IS SO IMPORTANT >irect the Course of the Merchant Marine 1 Hall was a firm pertains to the work of boatmen as well rship being active as clean water and wetlands acts that lative affairs. His have an impact on fishermen. rkchops," became Agency Oversight e in improving the of Seafarers and erchant marine t to secure passage pt Marine Act, the f legislation to be ~cted toward the inVorld War II. 1ntinues many parts of the having a say on ~ need for vigilance is able to maintain the voluntary con~rs to the Seafarers iation (SPAD) proirst few months of ess, legislators have med with U.S.-flag askan North Slope td funding for U.S.working with the stry to monitor the with implementa. Cargo preference irectly affects the .board bulkers, will ~bate. : have been before td can be brought up terways safety that But Congress is not the only part of the federal government that affects the lives and jobs of Seafarers. Government agencies associated with cabinet-level departments and the executive branch make decisions daily that concern the U.S. merchant marine and American seamen. The SIU is thus always offering suggestions and comments in behalf of its membership. One government agency known very well to all SIU members (if for nothing more than the merchant mariner's documents they carry) is the U.S. Coast Guard. The Coast Guard also handles maritime safety issues, port activities and crewing standards that affect the day-to-day regimen of the U.S. merchant marine. Some agencies, like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and Federal Maritime Commission, have names that show their direct involvement with the industry. But there are other, less obvious organizations in the government that have policy-making abilities which affect merchant mariners. For example, the Office of the U.S. ~rade Representative negotiates intemat10nal trade agreements that could have a bearing on the industry. This office handled the talks on the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATI) and the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFf A) in which maritime was discussed, but eventually was excluded, thanks to the efforts of the SIU and others in the industry. A decision last year by the Department of Energy to allow export sales of Alaskan North Slope crude oil has led the way to a bill now being considered by Congress. The legislation would permit the oil exportation as long as it is carried aboard U.S.-flag tankers. The Public Health Service of the Department of Health and Human Services sets the standards for cleanliness and pest eradication aboard U.S.-flag vessels. Finally, the ultimate authority of the executive branch, the president of the United States, sets the course for his administration and determines what will be a priority. Through SPAD, the SIU is able to monitor and act on proposals, ideas and policies designed to affect the lives of Seafarers and their families. It also allows Seafarers to voice their support collectively to those candidates for political office who stand for a strong U.S. merchant marine. Since the founding of this country, the merchant marine has been tied strongly to the federal government. With more and more agencies and committees having oversight into the activities of the merchant fleet, the union's effort to fight for its members and their families is moving to keep up with the changing times. GOVERNMENT -· ~gency ness 1Command mBoard te sonnel Directorate agement Command U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Fisheries International Affairs Natural Resources Land and Minerals Management Minerals Management Service Offshore Minerals Management Water and Science U.S. Geological Survey Office of Energy and Marine Geology Water Resources Division National Fish and Wildlife Foundation vy and perations erve Affairs Policy /Equal portunity Department of Justice Federal Bureau of Investigation Immigration and Naturalization Service Department of Labor Employment Standards Administration Office of Federal Contract Compliance d Renewable Energy Programs ergy Mgmt. Programs Wage and Hour Division Occupational Safety & Health Admin. Pension and Welfare Benefits Admin. Maritime Administration Office of Policy, Int'l. Trade & Marketing National Security Office of Port, Intermodal and Environmental Activities Office of Ship Financial Assistance and Cargo Preference Office of Shipbuilding & Tech. Dev. Office of Intermodalism Office of Int'l. Transportation and Trade U.S. Coast Guard Office of Marine Safety, Security and Environmental Personnel Marine Environ. Response Division Marine Investigation Division Marine Technical and Hazardous Materials Division Marine Vessel Inspection and Documentation Division Merchant Vessel Personnel Division Port Safety and Security Division Office of Navigation & Waterway Svc. Bridge Administration Division Ice Operations Division Radionavigation Division Search and Rescue Division Vessel Traffic Services Division Towing Safety Advisory Committee Merchant Marine Personnel Advisory Committee Navigation Safety Advisory Council Chemical Transport. Advisory Committee St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corp. Department of State Global Affairs Bureau of Oceans and Int'l. Environment and Scientific Affairs Bureau of Consular Affairs Overseas Citizens Service Passport Services Bureau of Economic and Business Affairs Trade Policy and Programs Department of the Treasury Transportation Affairs U.S. Customs Service Office of Maritime and Land Transport Internal Revenue Service :.Environmental ~~~.l!~~~~.~~Protection . ~9.~!!~~~·--·-·······--·· ----..-·---··J Agency ~ say about the course of the U.S. merchant marine. The SIU bodies. In photos ahove, SIU President Michael Sacco (left) go over the administration's proposed maritime revitalization I branch, testifies before the International Trade Commission n tuna fishermen and tuna-packing operations. Office of Ground Water and Drinking Water Office of Wetlands, Oceans & Watersheds Delaware River Basin Commission Equal Employment Opportunities Comm. Federal Communications Commission Federal Labor Relations Board Federal Maritime Commission Federal Trade Commission Int'l. Development Cooperation Agency Agency for International Development International Trade Commission Interstate Commerce Commission National Labor Relations Board National Transportation Safety Board Occupational Safety & Health Review Comm. Panama Canal Commission Small Business Administration Susquehanna River Basin Commission Tennessee Valley Authority Trade and Development Agency The merchant marine has been a top concern of the U.S. government since the Revolutionary War and the nation's birth. As a result, hundreds of laws have been enacted that determine the fate of America's maritime industry, and many more are taken up in Congress each year. Above, SIU President Michael Sacco indicates SIU support for a measure to expand the U.S.-registered passenger ship fleet. THE SENATE teroceanic canals; regulation of interWhat follows is a listing of all comstate common carriers, including vesmittees and subcommittees in the Senate sels; transportation; transportation and that have some jurisdiction over U.S. commerce aspects of Outer Continental shipping and the activities of Seafarers Shelf lands. Subcommittees: who sail on the deep seas, inland waterConsumer Affairs, Foreign Commerce ways and Great Lakes or as fishermen. and Tourism The name of the committee is folOceans and Fisheries Surface Transportation and Merchant lowed by a brief description of the Maline committee's work on issues dealing with the merchant marine and Seafarers. Committee on Energy and Natural Resources After that is a list of the subcommittees Oversight for energy policy; energy related aspects of deepwater ports; extracwhich oversee the matters of interest to tion of minerals from oceans and Outer union members and the merchant Continental Shelf lands; oil and gas marine. (As in the House, not all subproduction and distribution. committees of the full committee are Subcommittees: listed. Only those that play a role in the Energy Production and Regulation Forest and Public Land Management lives of Seafarers are included.) Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Committee on Environment and Public Forestry Works Oversees cargo preference; food from Oversight for environmental policy; fresh waters, rural development, rural ocean dumping; fisheries and wildlife; electrification and watersheds; and food, environmental control and improvenutrition and hunger in the U.S. and ments of rivers and harbors, including foreign nations. environmental aspects of deepwater Subcommittees: ports; public works, bridges and dams; Marketing, Inspection and Product water pollution. Promotion Subcommittees: Forestry, Conservation and Rural Transportation and Infrastructure Revitalization Research, Nutrition & General Legislation Committee on Appropriations Funding federal budget. Subcommittees: Agriculture, Rural Development and Re lated Agencies Commerce, Justice and State, the Judiciary and Related Agencies Defense Energy and Water Development Foreign Operations Interior and Related Agencies Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies Military Construction Transportation and Related Agencies Veterans Affairs, HUD and Independent Agencies Clean Air, Wetlands, Private Property and Nuclear Safety Drinking Water, Fisheries and Wildlife Committee on Finance Oversight for Customs, collection distric_ts and ports of entry and delivery; reciprocal trade agreements; transportation of dutiable goods. Subcommittee: International Trade Committee on Foreign Relations Oversight for relations of the United States with foreign nations; treaties and executive agreements; protection of United States citizens abroad; intervention abroad and declarations of war; foreign economic, military, technical and humanitarian assistance; oceans and inCommittee on Armed Services ternational environmental and scientific Oversight for the common defense of the affairs as they relate to foreign policy. nation; maintenance and operation of the Subcommittees: Panama Canal. International Operations Subcommittees: International Economic Policy, Export Seapower and Trade Promotion Airland Forces Readiness Acquisition and Technology Committee on Governmental Affairs Oversight for federal civil service. Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Subcommittee: Affairs Post Otti.ce and Civil Service Oversight for export controls; export and foreign trade promotion. Committee on Labor and Human Resources Subcommittee: Oversight for education, labor, health International Finance and public welfare; labor standards and statistics; wages and hours; mediation and arbitration of labor disputes;equal Committee on the Budget employment opportunity; occupational Oversight for the federal budget. safety and health; private pension plans. Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee on Rules and Administration Oversight for U.S. Coast Guard; coastal Oversight for how and when a bill will zone management; inland waterways, be considered by the Senate. except construction; interstate commerce; marine and ocean navigation, safety and transportation, including Committee on Small Business Oversight for study and survey, through navigational aspects of deepwater ports; research and investigation, of all marine fisheries; merchant marine and problems of American small business navigation; oceans, weather and atmosenterprises. pheric activities; Panama Canal and in- - �14 MAY1995 SEAFARERS LOG Another Booming Sailing Season Takes Off on Lakes From Duluth, Minn. on Lake SuperiortoBuffalo,N.Y.onLake Erie, Seafarers on the Great Lakes are back out on the waters in full force aboard every SIU-contracted vessel in the Lakes region, busy transporting commodities that remain in high demand. The first Seafarers began preparing for their work-packed schedule in early March when a mild winter permitted an early fitout and allowed them to crew their respective vessels. SIU Duluth Representitve Delores Cheslak noted the flurry of activity prior to fitout. "All the guys were so busy getting ready for the season," she said. Some Great Lakes vessels sailing into the port of Duluth experienced slight delays due to ice which was pushed into the harbor entrance by northeast winds during the last weeks of March. However, members aboard SIUcontracted Lakers-such as American Steamship vessels Buf falo, H. Lee White, Indiana Harbor, Walter J. McCarthy and St. Clair-sailed from the port without delay. Glen Nekvasil of the Lakes' Carriers Association, which monitors the activities of vessels on the Great Lakes, noted that there was no ice inside the breakwall, and the SIU-contracted ships were able to steam out of port "at full speed ahead," while those coming in had to slow to a maneuvering speed which caused them to become stuck in the ice. The U.S. Coast Guard ice cutter Mackinaw was able to cut through the ice jam, thus clearing the way for the outbound vessels. The 1994 sailing season saw more than 155 million tons of cargo transported by U.S-flag Lakes carriers. As the extraordinary demand for iron ore, grain, coal, cement, limestone and gypsum continues into the 1995 sailing season, another banner year is predicted. According to Nekvasil, shipping on the Great Lakes this year already has begun to surpass previous cargo records. The association representative noted that the fast start to the season on the Great Lakes put more than 40 ships into service by April 1, compared with only 21 at the same time last year. engineroom are QMED Will Mogg (left) and Wiper Norman Fittahey. Bosun Mark Fraley (left) displays the Coast Guard commendation honoring the crew of the Indiana Harbor for its rescue of Third Mate Theodore Lalonde (right). Joining them are Captain Pete Gronwall and Gateman Jae Bergstrom. Replacing light bulbs on the H. Lee White's wheelstand is Wheelsman Russell Brown. Hero Status Goes to Crew, Bosun Says Bosun Mark Fraley believes the honors he has received for his role in rescuing fellow crewmember Theodore LaLonde from the icy waters of Lake Superior in December 1993 really belong to the whole crew of the Indiana Harbor. "It was a joint effort by the entire crew," Fraley told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG. "I couldn't have done it without the help of the others. Even though I was the one to actually go into the water to get him out, we all worked really hard and well together. But that is generally how it is everywhere on the Lakes," said the Marine City, Mich. native. Fraley has been recognized for his bravery by several organizations. Most recently, on March 22, the bosun was presented with a Public Service Commendation from the U.S. Coast Guard at the Superior, Wis. Propeller Oub. Fraley was working aboard the Indiana Harbor while it was loading coal at the Midwest Energy Company terminal in Superior on December 7, 1993. Third Mate LaLonde was checking the draft marks on the ship when he slipped and fell into the ice-packed water of the Twin Ports harbor. Teamwork Prevails The crew of the Indiana Harbor immediately sprang into action. The dock foreman threw a life ring to the third mate, who had been injured as numerous ice floes struck his body. Chief Engineer Darryl Bertrand Sr. was notified of the accident and quickly de-clutched the ship's engines to prevent LaLonde from being injured by the vessel's propeller. First Engineer Lee Heinonen, QMED Frank Lawrence and QMED Jan Thompson provided assistance on the dock while Gateman Floyd Larsen, also on the dock, quickly retrieved a survival suit which proved crucial to Fraley's performance during the rescue. Steward Bill Van Vlack rounded up blankets for the rescue group. Disregarding the potential danger to himself, Fraley quickly donned the survival suit and braved the ice and sub-zero temperatures as he entered the freezing water. He swam to LaLonde and brought him to a ladder on the dock where the third mate was pulled to safety by the other crewmembers. LaLonde had been in the water for at least 10 minutes and was in danger of water shock, hypothermia and drowning. Fortunately, he only suffered cuts and bruises, thanks to the crew's efforts. "It felt really good when I realized that I had saved Ted's life," recalled Fraley. "He is a really good guy who has been around a long time. I'm just glad I could help," the bosun said. The award presented to Fraley by the Coast Guard last month stated, "Because of Mr. Fraley's courage, initiative and quick thinking, injuries to Mr. LaLo n de were minimal. Mr. Fraley' s unselfish actions and valiant service reflect the highest credit upon himself and are in keeping with the highest traditions of humanitarian service." Wheelsman William Maurer enjoys his lunch in the galley aboard the Indiana Harbor. Adjusting hydraulic take-up for the conveyor system aboard the H. Lee White is Gateman Saif Shajira. QMED Mark Wyman heads for the engine room aboard the H. Lee White. H. Lee White Wheelsman Don Brye reports to the pilot house to Regulating a valve on the H. Lee begin his shift. White is QMED Abdul Shahter. �SEAFARERS LOG MAY1995 Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea MARCH 16 - APRIL 15, 1995 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Clas.s C Port New York 31 Philadelphia 2 2 Baltimore Norfolk 5 Mobile 5 New Orleans 30 Jacksonville 22 San Francisco 29 Wilmington 14 Seattle 27 Puerto Rico 11 Honolulu 8 Houston 38 St. Louis 2 Piney Point 1 Algonac 0 Totals 227 Port New York 20 Philadelphia 2 Baltimore 6 Norfolk 6 Mobile 8 New Orleans 13 Jacksonville 13 San Francisco 13 Wilmington 9 18 Seattle 3 Puerto Rico 3 Honolulu 15 Houston St. Louis 0 Piney Point 4 Algonac 0 Totals 133 Port New York 22 Philadelphia 1 Baltimore 2 Norfolk 3 Mobile 9 New Orleans 10 Jacksonville 10 San Francisco 37 Wilmington 16 Seattle 16 Puerto Rico 2 Honolulu 4 Houston 10 St. Louis 1 Piney Point 4 Algonac 0 Totals 147 26 7 7 13 12 27 19 10 14 17 3 16 36 0 6 1 214 3 2 1 7 1 2 3 1 7 2 6 11 10 0 1 0 57 21 6 2 3 0 3 1 1 2 1 7 5 14 12 15 7 16 3 7 19 2 9 0 146 1 DECK DEPARTMENT 11 17 6 0 5 0 3 6 3 4 7 9 1 5 9 21 22 3 4 20 10 11 1 7 2 10 7 24 0 13 1 13 3 8 8 7 28 21 2 0 0 0 161 0 3 0 140 5 3 1 12 3 1 11 1 7 1 7 5 1 1 3 4 0 0 2 0 24 0 1 8 0 4 6 12 2 2 5 2 7 9 4 1 2 3 1 2 3 5 2 1 4 2 0 1 0 0 74 26 0 1 0 35 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 13 5 1 1 2 0 3 4 0 0 6 0 5 0 7 11 15 0 12 7 0 0 9 6 3 10 1 0 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C 0 89 0 1 Trip Reliefs 7 2 0 4 2 4 9 4 4 7 4 12 13 0 2 0 74 2 1 2 1 0 2 11 3 0 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 62 62 4 3 16 14 42 35 57 27 41 13 5 47 11 8 28 22 36 32 2 2 0 370 38 3 6 14 9 22 18 26 18 26 7 10 22 7 7 1 9 1 0 0 0 0 0 8 0 0 0 75 11 47 224 4 0 36 1 4 10 14 16 19 71 23 32 5 11 17 1 8 0 268 1 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 2 8 0 0 1 0 2 0 0 2 4 3 3 0 6 12 1 5 4 0 9 1 20 0 4 1 7 18 2 1 0 1 0 4 0 1 3 1 10 1 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 7 99 33 2 3 0 4 3 4 7 7 1 2 5 0 0 0 42 0 5 0 40 37 41 5 27 57 1 8 2 417 29 6 8 19 14 24 23 33 19 24 9 15 32 3 16 0 274 27 3 1 15 10 19 11 14 9 10 3 14 12 0 8 1 157 Port ENTRY DEPARTMENT New York 4 29 2 0 15 69 10 16 0 I 1 1 Philadelphia 0 0 1 0 3 0 4 Baltimore 5 0 0 0 3 0 3 0 22 Norfolk 4 6 4 7 13 19 0 0 34 1 l 4 Mobile 13 0 0 0 0 New Orleans 11 11 2 0 37 9 16 10 7 Jacksonville 7 2 26 2 3 6 7 1 0 San Francisco 10 15 3 22 39 1 5 3 0 0 33 Wilmington 2 3 20 6 0 8 9 12 30 20 5 15 0 0 Seattle 7 5 12 Puerto Rico 2 3 0 8 6 7 8 0 83 Honolulu 4 l 7 18 0 9 35 72 4 2 0 0 5 38 17 5 6 Houston 1 St. Louis 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 36 Piney Point 0 0 0 0 0 20 1 8 Algonac 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Totals 57 217 156 27 95 27 0 99 465 Totals All 651 263 376 343 80 163 961 De~artments 564 12313 * ''Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. **"Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. 8 2 3 15 0 4 10 7 12 5 June & July 1995 Membership Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, Inland Waters Piney Point Monday, June 5, July 3 New York Tuesday: June 6; Wednesday, July 5* *changed by Independence Day holiday Philadelphia Wednesday: June 7, July 5 Baltimore Thursday: June 8, July 6 Norfolk Thursday: June 8, July 6 Jacksonville Thursday: June 8, July 6 9 13 Algonac Friday: June 9, July 7 14 0 Houston Monday: June 12, July 10 1 0 103 New Orleans Tuesday: June 13, July 11 2 1 2 12 2 7 5 2 8 3 4 8 4 0 3 0 63 0 15 Mobile Wednesday: June 14, July 12 San Francisco Thursday: June 15, July 13 Wilmington Monday: June 19, July 17 Seattle Friday: June 23, July 21 San Juan Thursday: June 8, July 6 St. Louis Friday: June 16, July 14 Honolulu Friday: June 16, July 14 Duluth Wednesday: June 14, July 12 Jersey City Wednesday: June 21, July 19 New Bedford Tuesday: June 20, July 18 Each port's meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. 3 0 4 3 3 4 7 6 2 3 12 5 0 2 0 Personals LEE RUSSELL Please contact Leo Castro at 1090 W oodycrest Avenue, 2nd Floor, Bronx, NY 10452; or telephone (718) 590-4047. AB GERARD (JERRY) McCARTHY Anyone who knew Jerry and sailed with him on the Sgt. Matej Kocak from February 2 to February 23, 1995, prior to his passing away, please contact his wife, Janet, at (904) 375-0004. 54 RAYMOND CHARLES MEEHAN 30 Anyone knowing the whereabouts of Raymond Charles Meehan, please contact Roz Kocik at (716) 883-1360. 5 12 38 1 23 21 16 27 19 13 155 14 0 4 2 380 600 JOE TRAVIS Please contact Edna Mitchell at 125 Taylor Street, #3-B, Brooklyn, NY 11211; or telephone (718) 384-3415. - �16 SEAFARERS LOG MAY1995 Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes Seafarers International Union Directory Michael Sacco President John Fay Secretary-Treasurer Joseph Sacco Executive Vice President Augustin Tellez Vice President Contracts George McCartney Vice President West Coast Roy A. "Buck" Mercer Vice President Government Services Jack Caffey Vice President Atlantic Coast Byron Kelley Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters DeanCorgey Vice President Gulf Coast r- .- HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr. Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 BALTIMORE 1216 E. Baltimore St. Baltimore, .MD 21202 (410) 327-4900 DULUTH 705 Medical Arts Building Duluth, MN 55802 (218) 722-4110 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St. Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St. Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St. Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JERSEY CITY 99 Montgomery St. Jersey City, NJ 07302 (201)435-9424 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy. Mobile, AL 36605 (334) 478-0916 NEW BEDFORD 48 Union St. New Bedford, MA 02740 (508) 997-5404 NEW ORLEANS 630 Jackson Ave. New Orleans, LA 70130 (504) 529-7546 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St. Norfolk, VA 23510 (804) 622-1892 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S.4 St. Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75 Piney Point, MD 2067 4 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 2 West Dixie Highway Dania, FL 33004 (305) 921-5661 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St. San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Government Services Di vision (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop l6V2 Santurce, PR 00907 (809) 721-4033 SEA'ITLE 2505 First Ave. Seattle, WA 98121 (206) 441-1960 ST.LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave. St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave. Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 MARCH 16- APRIL 15, 1995 CL-Company/Lakes L-Lakes NP-Non Priority *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class CL Cla~ L Class NP DECK DEPARTMENT 15 2 0 26 1 0 34 4 0 18 1 0 10 1 0 35 21 97 52 2 43 13 0 0 Totals All Departments 0 * "Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. ** "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. 27 0 0 12 1 0 3 0 0 13 10 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 18 0 0 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 1 0 8 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters MARCH 16 - APRIL 15, 1995 Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Cla~ C TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Cla~ B Class C Class A *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C DECK DEPARTMENT 43 0 7 0 3 10 1 1 0 0 12 0 0 2 6 32 3 14 0 0 1 1 1 0 3 0 1 0 0 1 0 4 0 9 13 0 1 0 0 1 0 3 5 0 9 0 0 0 0 0 0 49 5 8 63 5 8 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 1 0 0 0 4 2 7 0 0 0 0 2 0 9 0 6 0 37 72 17 45 3 1 1 0 0 2 0 2 0 1 3 0 21 8 36 7 0 0 0 0 2 17 0 22 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 1 0 0 0 2 5 8 0 0 3 2 0 0 2 2 2 1 4 0 0 I 1 6 0 11 0 1 0 6 8 2 2 3 Totals All Departments 60 11 19 74 7 9 105 22 * ''Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. ** "Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. 56 ~.elU BULLETIN BOARD R & ~ tr7 DOCUMENTARY RECOGNIZES WWII MERCHANT MARINERS Seafarers and their families should tune in to their local Public Broadcasting System network on May 19, when an hour-long film, "The Men Who Sailed The Liberty Ships," will be shown nationally. The documentary explains how merchant mariners helped win World War II but were not recognized for their efforts until 1988. It includes tales of heroism and sacrifice by World War II mariners. It also describes the role played by maritime unions to provide mariners for the world's largest sealift operation. ~-SEAFARERS MUST RENEW Producer-writer-director Maria Brooks used a combination of oral interviews, films, photos and other sources to complete the project. Viewers should check their local public television station for the exact date and time of the viewing in their area. The film also is available on VHS cassette for $29.95 (plus $3.00 for shipping and handling) from Waterfront Soundings Productions, 3254 Kempton A venue, Oakland, CA 94611. Checks should be made payable to "Men: Liberty Ships Documentary." Issuance Year Z-CARDS BY 1999 Merchant seamen must renew their z-cards every five years, according to U.S. Coast Guard regulations. In order to keep their merchant mariner's documents up to date, Seafarers can use the chart on the right. Renewal dates are determined by the issuance date on the z-cards. The exact date of expiration matches the month and date when the document was issued. Renewal Year <(J UPDATE YOUR ADDRESS In order to ensure that SIU members and pensioners receive a copy of the Seafarers LOG each month-as well as other important mail-a correct home address must be on file with the union. If you have moved recently and have not yet notified the union, go to your nearest SIU hall and fill out a change of address form or send your new address (along with your name, book number and social security number) to: Address Contrql, Seafarers International Union, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 .. 1990 1985 1980 1975 1970 1965 1960 1955 1950 1945 1940 1991 1986 1981 1976 1971 1966 1961 1956 1951 1946 1941 1992 1987 1982 1977 1972 1967 1962 1957 1952 1947 1942 1937 1993 1988 1983 1978 1973 1968 1963 1958 1953 1948 1943 1938 1994 1989 1984 1979 1974 1969 1964 1959 1954 1949 1944 1939 1995 1996 1997 , 1998 1999 Source: Federal Register, September 27, 1994 �SEAFARERS LOG MAY1995 J oining the growing number of SIU pensioners this month are a total of 14 members who have retired after many voyages on the world's oceans, waterways and lakes. Eight of those signing off shipped in the deep sea division, five navigated the inland waterways and one sailed on the Great Lakes. Four of the retiring Seafarers are veterans of the U.S.Navy. Two served in the U.S. Army. Another two were in the U.S. Coast Guard. One of the new retirees was in the U.S. Marine Corps. Among those joining the ranks of the retirees, William Mortier completed the bosun recertification course at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. Of all the union brothers signing off this month, Rowland "Snake" Williams sailed with the SIU the longest - having joined the Seafarers in 1945 in the port of New York. Williams also sailed in the deep sea, Great Lakes and inland divisions. On this page the LOG presents brief biographical accounts of this months pensioners. DEEP SEA WILLIS "WILLY" R. CAMPBELL,68, began his sailing ' career with the Seafarers in 1957 from the port of Detroit. The Michigan native started sailing in the union's Great Lakes division and later transferred his book to union's deep sea section, where he sailed as a member of the deck department. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1950 to 1952. Brother Campbell makes his home in Ohio. JOSEPH ''FRENCHY'' B.FRUGE, 60,joined the SIU in 1955 in the port of Lake Charles, La. He sailed in the deck department. Born and raised in Louisiana, Brother Fruge has retired to his home state. SAIFM. KASIM,65, signed on with the union in 1967 in the port of Seattle. Brother c...::.;;_-==-=-== Kasim shipped in the engine department. A native of the Republic of Yemen, he has retired to the country of his birth. WILLIAM MORTIER, 65, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1968 from the port of New York. Shipping as a member of the deck department, Brother Mortier upgraded regularly at To Our New Pensioners • • . Thanks for a Job Well Done Each month in the Seafarers LOG, the names of SIU members who recently have become pensioners appear with a brief biographical sketch. These men and women have served the maritime industry well, and the SIU and all their union brothers and sisters wish them happiness and health in the days ahead. the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. and completed the bosun recertification program there in 1979. Born in the Netherlands, he now resides in Washington. LOUISR. SHULTZ, 65,joined the SIU in 1960 in the port of Detroit. Brother Shultz first began sailing in the deck department aboard Great Lakes vessels and later transferred his membership to the deep sea division. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1947 to 1950. Brother Shultz has retired to his home state of Ohio. port of Norfolk, Va. following a 25-year career with the U.S. Coast Guard, from 1950 to 1975. He sailed as a pilot and, most recently, as a captain. Boatman Daniels attended the SIU Atlantic Coast-Inland educational conference at the Lundeberg School in 1978. He has retired to his native North Carolina. DAVIDP. FARROW, 65,began his sailing career with the union in 1968 from the port of Norfolk, Va. Boatman Farrow sailed in the engine department. He served in the U.S. Coast Guard from 1946 to 1966. Brother Farrow has retired to his native state of North Carolina. ROWLAND "SNAKE" WILLIAMS, 66, joined the SIU in 1945 in the port of New York. Boatman Williams shipped in both the deep sea and Great Lakes divisions before he began sailing the inland waterways. He mainly sailed in the deck 17 department and worked his way up to the rating of bosun. He also worked in the engine department. Brother Williams has been active in many SIU organizing drives and beefs. He served most recently on the union's annual financial review committees in 1994 and 1995. A native of Maryland, Brother Williams continues to reside in his home state. JOHN LEE TAYLOR, 62, signed on with the union in 1967 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Boatman Taylor sailed as a captain and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. A native of Virginia, Boatman Taylor continues to live there. GREAT LAKES JOHN E. PARKS, 62, a native of Michigan, began his sailing career with the Seafarers in 1961 from the port of Detroit. He sailed in the deck department as a deckhand and dredgeman. Brother Parks still calls Michigan home. RONALD SWANSON, 54, signed on with the union in 1968 in the port of Seattle. A member of the engine department, the North Dakota native upgraded to QMED at the Lundeberg School. He served in the U.S. Army from 1961to1964. Brother Swanson makes his home in Washington state. TUVAO T. TAULA, 65, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1964 from the port of Wilmington, Calif. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. Born in American Samoa, Brother Taula served in the U.S. Navy from 1957 to 1961. He has retired to California. WILLIAM "WILLIE" R. WILLIAMS, 74, started sailing in 1936 and joined the SIU in 1947 in the port of Norfolk, Va. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Williams was actively involved in union affairs and participated in several organizing drives and beefs. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to 1947. Born in Virginia, Brother Williams now lives in New York. Quality is always a goal of Seafarers aboard SIU-contracted vessels, but aboard the Sea-La,nd Quality, crewmembers have the additional aim of making sure they live up to its name. Everything aboard the Sea-Land Services' ship is performed with quality in mind-from the nutritious meals to the smooth-running engines to the well maintained cargo areas. Following its monthly stopover in Elizabeth, N.J. for loading (where Patrolman Jack Sheehan met with the crew and took these photos), the containership headed to the North Atlantic ports of Rotterdam and Bremerhaven. INLAND WILLIAM M. BURRISS, 55, signed on with the union in 1963 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Boatman Burriss became a licensed marine operator and sailed as captain. The North Carolina native served in the U.S. Army from 1959 to 1962. Boatman Burriss continues to reside in North Carolina. AMOS R. DANIELS, 62, joined the SIU in 1977 in the / Representing the three departments aboard the Bosun Kadir P. Amat (left) and AB/Deck Main- Sea-Land Quality are (standing) Steward Terry J. tenance Porfirio Sambula take part in the union Smith, AB Howard Yaekel (left) and Electrician Kenmeeting held aboard ship. neth F. Linah. �18 SEAFARERS LOG MAY1995 Safety Is Priority #1 for Liberty Sea Crew Whether loading grain bound for Israel or performing routine maintenance on the 738-foot bulk carrier, Seafarers aboard the Liberty Sea note that safety is always their first concern. "Bosun Tyrone Burrell really stresses the need for safety aboard ship," said SIU Patrolman Bobby Milan, who recently visited the Liberty Sea while it took on cargo in the port of New Orleans. "No matter what task crewmembers are performing, they do it safely. It is something the entire crew is proud of." The Liberty Sea travels to many different ports worldwide and has completed several consecutive trips to the Israeli ports of Haifa and Ashod, carrying grain cargoes of com and soybeans. While the 63,739 ton Liberty Maritime bulk carrier recently was docked in the Crescent City, deck department members were chipping and painting the starboard bridge wing, which the bosun noted could be dangerous because of the location of the wing as well as sea and weather conditions. Milan added that Liberty Sea deck crewmembers took every precaution necessary while completing the chipping and painting. This included the use of proper safety belts and the placement of nets under the deck department members while they worked. "The guys were very high up in the air and had to be very careful," recalled Milan. "The safety belts and nets secured them as they did their work. You have to be really careful when performing such duty because a slip to the left or right and you could fall. But, as with all Seafarers-who are well trainedsafety is observed and the job is completed successfully," concluded Milan. Chief Cook Antoinette Spangler gathers the necessary items in the chill box to prepare lunch for the crew of the Liberty Sea. Bosun Tyrone Burrell points to a safety net placed below deck department members who are scraping and painting the Liberty Sea's starboard bridge wing. Making sure the engines are running properly before another long voyage is QMED Bruce Zenon. Shifting the bulk carrier's gangway are (from left to right) DE Us Walter Laux and Guadalupe Campbell, Bosun Tyrone Burrell and ABs Wilfred Rice and Bruce Robinson. Seafarers Aboard Car Carrier Witness l'ierside Collision in NJ Seafarers aboard the Faust were spared a potentially devastating accident when a large German-flag, German-registered containership quickly diverted its course to avoid colliding with the car carrier. Seconds later, the containership plowed into a cement pier. On March 7, in a heavy fog, crewmembers aboard the Faust had just finished cargo operations at the Northeast Auto Terminal in the port of Bayonne, NJ., when they were alerted that the Genoa Senator was sailing at a swift speed toward that pier. QMED Glen Benoit was on the stem ramp when he saw the ship coming. He quickly notified the other crewmembers. Visibility was reported to be so limited that crewmembers did not even spot the speeding German containership until it was about 200 feet away. "The bow was coming straight toward us, and we all wondered what the ship was doing," recalled Steward/Baker Frank Cummings, who supplied the photo accompanying this story. "The only thing we can figure is that they just didn't see us or the pier. When they did, they thrust the ship onto the pier instead of hitting us," Cummings told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG. According to the U.S. Coast Guard, the Genoa Senator hit a small section of the loading ramp at the Northeast Auto Terminal. The force of the accident knocked two plates off the Faust's stem ramp. The damage was very minimal, and the Faust was able to sail later that day following a thorough inspection. The Genoa Senator, however, was not as lucky. Cook Chris Arrocena, chief cook aboard the Faust, recalled the severity of the damage done to the vessel. "The ship plowed into the cement dock and peeled 45 feet off the bow of the ship-like a can opener," Arrocena recalled. TomMurray,thevesselsuperintendent for International Marine Carriers (which operates the Faust) was in the engineroom at the time of the collision and came topside when he heard the commotion. "We were very, very lucky that no one was hurt," Murray said. "The Faust was checked for leakage where the gangway had been hit, but no damage was found and the ship was able to sail," the superintendent noted. "We came very close to a catastrophe. We are all very lucky," he concluded. Faust transports The automobiles between the U.S. and Europe. Built in 1985, the car carrier is equipped with 600,000 square feet of parking area. An investigation into the cause Chief Cook Chris Arrocena stands on the deck of the Faust and points of the collision is being con- to the damage done to the bow of the Genoa Senator after the ducted by the U.S. Coast Guard. containership hit a cement pier in Bayonne, N.J. �SEAFARERS LOG MAY1995 Digest of Ships Meetings The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships minutes first are reviewed by the union's contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. AMERICAN MERLIN (Osprey Shipping), January 29-Chairman Antonio Trikoglou, Secretary Charles Roldan, Educational Director Rex Bolin, Deck Delegate Edward French, Engine Delegate Frank Mannino, Steward Delegate Steve Dickson. Chairman advised crewmembers to take advantage of upgrading courses offered at Piney Point. Educational director reported purchase by captain of compact disc player in Rota, Spain for crew's entertainment. Treasurer announced $250 in ship's fund. Deck, engine and steward delegates reported disputed OT. AB Joe Whalen asked crewmembers to help keep laundry room clean. OVERSEAS HARRIETTE (Maritime Overseas), February 21-Chairman Jim McDonald, Engine Delegate Ronnie Bond. Chairman stated everything running smoothly and thanked crew for cooperation. Educational director reminded members to upgrade at Lundeberg School. Deck delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegates. Crew asked union to check quality of linens and food aboard ship. SEA-LAND HAWAII (Sea-Land Services), February 26-Chairman James Carter, Secretary Rolando Lopez, Educational Director Gerald Stacy, Deck Delegate Ab· dulhamid Musaed, Engine Delegate Darrell Hurts, Ste-ward Delegate Glenn Taan. Chairman thanked crew for cooperation in separating plastic items from other garbage. He advised members of no smoking policy in crew mess area. Secretary thanked engine department for safety repairs completed in galley. Secretary also thanked bosun and deck delegate for replacing old non-skid surface in galley deck. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed posting of movie funds . Extra pillows and mattresses also requested by crew. Next port: Oakland, Calif. SEA-LAND KODIAK (Sea-Land Services), February 1-Chairman Glen Christianson, Secretary Aubrey Gething, Educational Director Clifford McCoy, Steward Delegate Cynthia Caster. Chairman announced payoff upon arrival in port. Secretary reported smooth voyage. Educational director discussed upgrading at Lundeberg School. Treasurer announced $40 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman asked captain to provide dockside transportation for crew. He also asked chief engineer to move trash compactor from galley area to garbage room where it can be utilized for plastic reduction. Chairman requested slop sink be placed in garbage room. Crew reported ventilation fan to be taken ashore for repair. Chairman announced transportation will be furnished four hours after arrival and four hours prior to sailing. Crew extended special vote of thanks to galley crew for good food. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. RANGER(Vulcan Carriers), February 5-Chairman Johnny Wolfe, Secretary Chih·Hua Chang, Educational Director Theodore Quinones, Deck Delegate Robert Desmarteau, Engine Delegate Craig Spencer, Steward Delegate Tookie Davalie. Chainnan asked that no plastic items be thrown overboard. He reminded crewmembers to be careful on main deck in bad weather. Bosun also advised crew to be cautious when ashore in foreign countries. He reminded members of no-smoking-on-deck policy and discussed purchase of movies in next port. Educational director noted importance of upgrading at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT. Crew gave chief cook vote of thanks for excellent job. SEAL/FT ARCTIC (IMC), February 17-Chairman Warren Blankenship, Secretary Beverly Harris, Educational Director Neil Carter, Deck Delegate Jack Mottia, Engine Delegate Dennis Swords, Steward Delegate Neville Hughes. Chairman announced smoking allowed 30 minutes before and after meals. He also noted no smoking at any time in crew laundry room. He reminded crewmembers to close water tight doors on main deck because of air conditioning and put tools away after use. Educational director advised members to take tanker safety class at Piney Point. Deck delegate reported crew dryer needs repair or replacement. Steward delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck or engine delegate. Crew asked for locks on all rooms. Crew noted vessel being sold and is scheduled for layup in Houston at end of month. CAROLINA (Navieras), February 21-Chairman Jose Martin, Secretary Albert Coale, Educational Director David Able, Engine Delegate James Brown, Steward Delegate Richard Worobey. Engine delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT by deck or steward delegates. Galley Gangs Get Rave Reviews OMI Dynachem crew praises Chief Cook Tom Kreis ... USNS Stalwart's galley crew receives kudos ... SeaLand Consumer Seafarers hail culinary skills ofArthur Edwards ... Ranger seamen extol Chief Cook Tookie Davalie's work . .. Sealift Atlantic's 'Big Al' Williams lauded ... Overseas Marilyn steward group recognized . .. LNG Leo's food handlers applauded . .. Green Island's galley gang commended . .. Sea-Land Kodiak's steward department members' work complimented. GREEN ISLAND (Waterman Steamship), March 26-Chairman Robert Van Brunt, Secretary Howard Williams, Educational Director James Laratta, Deck Delegate Robert Stevenson, Engine Delegate Andre Smith, Steward Delegate Ovidio Crespo. Chairman thanked crewmembers standing watch for being quiet while others are sleeping. Bosun thanked Brother Williams for running effective steward department. Secretary announced ship laying up in port of Singapore on March 28. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew commended galley gang for job well done and announced receipt of two new washing machines and dryers . LNG CAPRICORN (ETC), March 5-Chairman Billie Darley, Secretary J.L. Gibbons, Educational Director Thomas Harris, Deck Delegate Michael McCartney, Engine Delegate Aaron Thaxton. Chairman congratulated crew for excellent safety practices. He stressed importance of shipboard union meetings to keep communication flowing. Treasurer announced $152 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Captain addressed members at union meeting concerning loading of gas in Arnn, Indonesia. He noted that port is running out of gas and ship will be re-routing to Bontang, Indonesia to pick up LNG cargo. Crew discussed taking up donations for Japanese earthquake victims. Vote of thanks given to steward department for job well done. LNG LEO (ETC), March 5Chairman Philip Parisi, Secretary Henry Jones Jr., Educational Director Paul Pagano, Engine Delegate Richard Robertson, Steward Delegate Glenn Wil· Iiams. Chairman announced union and company to meet this month to resolve shipboard concerns. He discussed telex from union headquarters concerning AB watch standing. Educational director noted Piney Point open year round for upgrading classes. Deck delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegates. Chairman said Seafarers LOGs received and SIU President Michael Sacco's report posted. Chairman noted cable will be run from radio room to crew decks so crewmembers can hook up if they have a TV - for CNN, TNT and ESPN. Entire crew gave big hand to steward department for good food and clean ship. Next port: Arnn, Indonesia. OM/ DYNACHEM (OMI), March 26-Chairman Larry Kunc, Secretary S. Wagner, Educational Director Eusebio Figueroa, Deck Delegate Amante Gumiran, Engine Delegate Ali Asumari, Steward Delegate Tom Kreis. Chairman reported discussion by patrolman of SIU's role in politics concerning U.S. merchant marines. He also informed crew of tanker operations course at Paul Hall Center. Bosun announced expected payoff date and added room inspection will be conducted. He discussed letter from union concerning SeaLand' s reflagging. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked steward department with special appreciation to Chief Cook Kreis who will be signing off after voyage. Next port: Texas City, Texas. OM/ MISSOURI (OMI), March 13-Chairman Stephen Argay, Secretary C. Clanton, Educational Director Glenn Bumpas, Deck Delegate John Shepherd, Steward Delegate John Arvanites. Chairman asked crewmembers to voice any concerns about safety on the job. Secretary announced union benefit forms available for all members. Educational director encouraged crewmembers to take advantage of upgrading classes at Lundeberg School. Treasurer noted $50 in ship's fund and discussed using money for telephone calls or sympathy flowers. Deck and steward delegates reported disputed OT. Bosun read letter from union headquarters concerning questions from members about shipping limits, pension benefits and relief. Crew requested new TV, VCR and videotapes. Crew thanked steward department for job well done and thanked bosun for good union leadership and representation. Chairman encouraged all members to practice common sense and judgment in safety matters at all times and stressed importance of safety meetings. Next port: New Orleans. OVERSEAS MARILYN (Maritime Overseas), March 12Chairman Marco Galliano, Secretary Jose Rivera, Educational Director Louis Gracia, Steward Delegate Thomas Gingerich. Chairman informed crew of layup and payoff in Texas. Secretary reminded eligible crewmembers to apply for upgrading courses at Piney Point. Engine delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck or steward delegates. Crew requested increased optical benefits. Entire crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang for job well done. 19 well done with special thanks given to "Big Al" of galley gang for always being happy and smiling. QMED Peter Sorensen reminded crew to clean quarters before signing off. SEA-LAND CONSUMER (SeaLand Service), March 12-Chairman Amado Abaniel, Secretary Ray Garcia, Educational Director Brian Connell, Deck Delegate Frank Cammuso, Engine Delegate Teddie Carter, Steward Delegate Arthur Edwards. Chairman extended special vote of thanks to deck department and reminded crew to take tanker safety course at Paul Hall Center. Secretary reminded members to check expiration date on z-cards. Educational director noted that Staying Informed Aboard the Duchess - A shipboard union meeting while in port means, among other thin9s, an opportunity to receive and catch up on all the latest union news. So it was recently in San Juan, P.R., when the crew of the Duchess met with an SIU patrolman. From the left aboard the Ocean Ships, Inc. vessel are Bosun David Newman, AB A. Reed and QMED Felipe Torres. OVERSEAS OH/O(Maritirne Overseas), March 19-Chairman Greg Hamilton, Secretary Earl Gray Sr., Educational Director Scott Wilkinson, Deck Delegate Santiago Ludan, Engine Delegate Gregory Johns, Steward Delegate Ernest Polk. Chairman commended deck department for stripping and waxing decks. Permission given by captain for purchase of lamp shades for crew recreation room. Bosun thanked everyone for hard work during recent bad weather. He reported ship will discharge in Long Beach, Calif. next voyage. Secretary reminded crew to take new tanker safety course at Lundeberg School. Educational director discussed importance of attending this and other classes at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked headquarters to check on mail delivery. Vote of thanks given to steward department for job well done. Next port: Honolulu, Hawaii. RICHARD G. MATTHIESEN safety comes first in all shipboard work. Beefs reported by steward delegate. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck or engine delegates. Chairman asked crew to read Seafarers LOG. Crew thanked galley gang, especially Arthur Edwards, the 30-year man, for excellent meals. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. SEA-LAND PATRIOT (SeaLand Service), March 25-Chairman Robert Garcia, Secretary Peter Schutz, Steward Delegate Ernesto Meneses. Chairman noted crew recreation area furniture to be redone. Educational director advised crew to upgrade at Piney Point, utilizing courses such as tanker operations class to increase knowledge. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew noted letter from headquarters posted. Chairman asked crew to turn TV and VCR off when finished . Members reminded to return room keys and clean quarters before signing off. Chairman asked entire crew for help in keeping ship clean. Bosun also reminded crewmembers smoking not allowed in mess halls. (Ocean Shipholding), March 12Chairman James Martin, Secretary Lovell McElroy, Educational Director Ronnie Day, Deck Delegate Dana Naze, Engine Delegate Dean Dobbins, Steward Delegate Daniel Maxie. Educational director reminded crew that members working on tankers must enroJI as soon as possible in tanker operations class at Piney Point. Treasurer announced $1,080 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked contracts department to look into increasing number of vacation days awarded per month aboard vessel. Next port: Charleston, S.C. SEA-LAND PRIDE (Sea-Land Service), March 11-Chairman M. Abdulla, Secretary P. Scott, Educational Director K. Pamagotis, Deck Delegate Donald Boatright. Chairman discussed with crewmembers upcoming reflagging of the Sea-Land Pride in Singapore. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman thanked entire crew for job well done during last few sailing weeks while waiting for reflagging and change of crews. SEAL/FT ATLANTIC (IMC), March 18-Chainnan Carlos Loureiro, Secretary Al Williams, Deck Delegate Ricardo Ramos, Engine Delegate Bernard Hutching, Steward Delegate Luis Caballero. Bosun announced ship has been sold to Greek company and reported payoff in Orange, Texas. He thanked crew for job well done in tank cleaning, cargo operations and for good seamanship. Educational director reminded crew about tanker safety course in effect at Lundeberg School. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked steward department for job USNS STALWART(U.S. Marine Management), March 1-Chairman T.C. Oneyear, Secretary John Neal, Deck Delegate John Stambach, Engine Delegate Chuck Stamper. Chairman discussed Seafarers LOG and future of U.S. maritime industry with crewmembers. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew also discussed future ship assignments. Crew thanked steward department for outstanding ship. They noted deep satisfaction with chow and excellent attitudes of entire galley gang. Next port: Key West, Fla. �20 SEAFARERS LOG MAY1995 •a a.s','i'·l! 11~u1 nw1 Preparing to participate in a union meeting aboard Chief Steward Dorothy Barnes (left) and Bosun the Sea/ift Caribbean are AB Arthur Machado (left) Michael Galbraith sign the ship's minutes following and OS Jerome Sorupia. the shipboard meeting. Smooth Sailing Reported Aboard Sealift Caribbean Smooth sailing was the word from the SIU crew aboard the Sealift Caribbean during its -latest voyage. Bosun Michael Galbraith reported to the SIU Contracts Department through the minutes of the crew's shipboard union meeting on March 14 that all was going well aboard the IMC tanker. That view was backed up by AB Arthur Machado, who provided the accompanying photographs to the Seafarers LOG. "We had a great crew on board," he said after signing off. "Everyone got along and worked well together." Among the crewmembers Machado praised was OS Jerome Sorupia, who was sailing aboard his first vessel after completing the entry level pro- Heading for their work stations on the Sealift Caribbean are, from the left, SA Eugene Barnes, QMED Ty Harden and SA Van Monroe. gram at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship. "Jerome had a wonderful attitude," Machado recalled. "Like others who come straight from Piney Point, he worked hard and wanted to learn all that he could." In the minutes, the whole crew praised the work of the galley gang. Chief Steward Dorothy Barnes, Chief Cook W.G. Lombard and Steward Assistants Eugene Barnes and Van Monroe were singled out for their superb meals which made the voyage along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts better. The Sealift Caribbean is one of nine vessels operated by IMC to transport jet fuel and other petroleum products for the Military Sealift Command (MSC). The 20-year-old Sealift Caribbean recently laid up in Port Arthur, Texas. The fate of the tanker and the other eight in Wiper Shawn Tapp (left), QMED C.M. Devonish (center) and ABC. the fleet is unclear as charters Wentworth listen during the shipboard meeting. on the vessels are expiring. Sealift Pacific Galley Crew Is Ready to Serve Waiting to fill the meal orders of their fellow crewmembers is the steward department aboard the Sealift Pacific. From the left are Chief Steward Stephen Bird, Chief Cook Neville Monteith and SA Nawa Williams. The vessel transports petroleum products for the Military Sealift Command. FINANCIAL REPORTS. The PAYMENT OF MONIES. No constitution of the SIU Atlantic, moniesaretobepaidtoanyoneinany Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters Dis- official capacity in the SIU unless an trict makes specific provision for official union receipt is given for safeguarding the membership ' s same. Under no circumstances money and union finances. The should any member pay any money constitution requires a detailed for any reason unless he is given such audit by certified public accountants receipt In the event anyone attempts every year, which is to be submitted to require any such payment be made to the membership by the secretary- without supplying a receipt, or if a treasurer. A yearly finance committee member is required to make a payof rank-and-file members, elected by ment and is given an official receipt, the membership, each year examines but feels that he or she should not the finances of the union and reports have been required to make such payfully their findings and recommenda- ment, this should immediately be tions. Members of this committee reported to union headquarters. may make dissenting reports, C 0 N s TIT u TI o NA L specific recommendations and RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. separate findings. Copies of the SIU constitution are TRUST FUNDS. All trust available in all union halls. All funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, members should obtain copies of Lakes and Inland Waters District this constitution so as to familiarize are administered in accordance themselves with its contents. Any with the provisions of various trust time a member feels any other fund agreements. All these agree- member or officer is attempting to ments specify that the trustees in deprive him or her of any constitucharge of these funds shall equally tional right or obligation by any consist of union and management methods, such as dealing with charrepresentatives and their alternates. ges, trials, etc., as well as all other All expenditures and disburse- details, the member so affected ments of trust funds are made only should immediately notify headupon approval by a majority of the quarters. trustees. All trust fund financial EQUAL RIGHTS. All memrecords are available at the head- hers are guaranteed equal rights in quarters of the various trust funds. employment and as members of the SHIPPING RIGHTS. A SIU. These rights are clearly set forth member's shipping rights and in the SIU constitution and in the conseniority are protected exclusively tracts which the union has negotiated by contracts between the union and with the employers. Consequently, no the employers. Members should get member may be discriminated against to know their shipping rights. ~use of race,~· ~l~r, sex, naCopies of these contracts are posted t:mnal or geographic ongm. If ~y and available in all union halls. If me~ber feels t~at he or ~he is members believe there have been demed the equal nghts to which he violations of their shipping or or she is entitled, the member seniority rights as contained in the should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the ACTIVITY DONATION Seafarers Appeals Board by certified SPAD. SPAD is a separate mail, return receipt requested. The segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purproper address for this is: poses including, but not limited to, Augustin Tellez, Chairman furthering the political, social and Seafarers Appeals Board economic interests of maritime 5201 Auth Way workers, the preservation and furCamp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred thering of the American merchant to are available to members at all marine with improved employment times, either by writing directly to the opportunities for seamen and boatunion or to the Seafarers Appeals men and the advancement of trade Board. union concepts. In connection with CONTRACTS. Copies of all such objects, SPAD supports and SIU contracts are available in all SIU contributes to political candidates for halls. These contracts specify the elective office. All contributions are wages and conditions under which an vol.u~tary. No ~ontribution may be SIU member works and lives aboard solicited or received because of force, a ship or boat. Members should know job discrimination, financial reprisal, their contract rights, as well as their or ~~t of such con?u~t, or ~ a obligations, such as filing for over- cond1tlonofmembershipm ~e~ru~n time (01) on the proper sheets and or of employment If a contnbut10.n is in the proper manner. If, at any made by reason of the above rmtime a member believes that an proper conduct, the member should SIU ~atrolman or other union offi- not!fy the Seafarers Int~rnation~l cial fails to protect their contrac- U~~n or SPAD by ce~fi~ mail tual rights properly, he or she ~1thi~ 30 ?ays of the con~butlon.for should contact the nearest SIU port mvestJ.gatJ.on and appropnate action agent. and refund, if involuntary. A member EDITORIAL POLICY - should support SPAD to protect and THE SEAFARERS LOG. The further his or her economic, political Seafarers LOG traditionally has and social interests, and American refrained from publishing any article trade union concepts. NOTIFYING TIIE UNIONserving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officeror mem- If at any time a member feels that ber. It also has refrained from publish- any of the above rights have been ing articles deemed harmful to the violated, or that he or she has been union or its collective membership. denied the constitutional right of This established policy has been reaf- access to union records or informafinned by membership action at the tion, the member should immediSeptember 1960 meetings in all con- ately notify SIU President Michael stitutional ports. 'The responsibility Sacco at headquarters by certified for Seafarers WG policy is vested in mail, return receipt requested. an editorial board which consists of The address is: the executive board of the union. The Michael Sacco, President executive board may delegate, from Seafarers International Union among its ranks, one individual to 5201 Au th Way carry out this re.5p0nsibility. Camp Springs, MD 20746. �SEAFARERS LOG MAY1995 21 Final Departures DEEP SEA SCOTT C. ALDERSON union merged with the SIU's AGUWD. Brother Colar retired in August 1973. ROBERT M. DEAN Pensioner Alfred H. Anderson, 76, died March 9. Brother Anderson signed on with the SIU as a charter member in 1939 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Sailing in the deck department, he completed the bosun recertification course in 1974 at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. A native of Virginia, he retired in April 1980. • DONALD J. BIRKLAND Donald J. Birkland, 71 , died February 19. Born in South Dakota, he began sailing with the union in 1988 from the port of New York. He shipped in the engine department and held the rating of electrician. Brother Birkland attended upgrading courses at the Lundeberg School. A veteran of World War II, he served in the U.S. Army from 1943 to 1946. CHARLES J. BRENNICK Pensioner Charles J. Brennick, 69, passed away December 16, 1994. Brother Brennick signed on with the i l Seafarers in 1956 in the port of New York. He sailed in the engine department. A native of Massachusetts, Brother Brennick retired in August 1990. SANTIAGO CERRA TO Pensioner Santiago Cerrato, 66, died -February 19. Born in Honduras, he began his sailing career with the SIU ~-----~in 1969from the port of New Orleans. Brother Cerrato shipped in the engine department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School . He began receiving his pension in July 1994. DAVIDE. CHRISTIAN Pensioner David E. Christian, 85, died November 1, 1994. He joined the union in 1966 in the port of New York. Brother Christian shipped in the steward department. Born in Germany, he retired in June 1976. WILLARD C. COLAR Pensioner Willard C. Colar, 70, died April 17, 1994. He signed on with the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1955, before that RobertM. Dean, 63, passed away March 12. Born in the Philippines, he became a naturalized U.S. citizen. He began sailing with the SIU in 1968 from the port of New York. Brother Dean sailed in the engine department and upgraded to QMED at the Lundeberg School. WALTERE.DEVEREAUX WalterE. Devereaux, 50, died March 26. Born in Texas, he signed on with the Seafarers in 1972 in the port of San Francisco. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Devereaux upgraded to QMED at the Lundeberg School. PETER J. GARAY Pensioner Peter J. Garay, 66, died September 15, 1994. Following his graduation from the Andrew Furuseth Training School for entry level seamen, he began his SIU sailing career in 1956 in his native New York. He sailed in the engine department and upgraded to QMED at the Lundeberg School. Brother Garay began receiving his pension in February 1983. ARVID GYLLAND Pensioner Arvid GylIand, 78, died October 5, 1994. Brother Gylland signed on with the Seafarers in '-------------'= '-'--------' 1943 in the port of New York and sailed in the deck department. Born in Norway, Brother Gylland began receiving his pension in September 1971 . YACOB B. HASSAN Pensioner Yacob B. Hassan, 68, passed away February 19. He joined the SIU in 1969 in the port of Baltimore. Brother Hassan sailed in the deck department. Born in Singapore, he retired in May 1992. GORDON M. JOHNSON GordonM. Johnson, 56, died March 18. A graduate of the Andrew Furuseth sailing career with the union in 1965 from the port of New York. Brother Johnson shipped in the steward department. Born in New York, he served in the U.S. Anny from 1956 to 1960. STEPHEN J. JURETIC Pensioner Stephen J. Juretic, 67, died December 10, 1994. Born in Oregon, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1951 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU' s AGLIWD. He served in the military from 1945 to 1948. Brother Juretic began receiving his pension in July 1973. ELMER MOYER Elmer Moyer, 66, died January 2. He joined the union in 1971 in his native New York. Brother Moyer shipped in the deck department. He served in the U.S. Navy .from 1945 to 1954. DAVIDH.PALI Pensioner David H. Pali, 81, passed away November 17, 1994. Born in Hawaii, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in the late 1940s, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Pali began receiving his pension in July 1978. EVERETT R. PERRY Pensioner Everett R. Perry, 80, died March 20. Brother Perry graduated from the Andrew ._____ _ _ _ ____, Furuseth Training School for entry level seamen in 1958. He began shipping with the Seafarers from the port of New York as a member of the steward department. He served in the U.S. Army from 1940 to 1941. A native of Missouri, Brother Perry retire.cl in December 1982. LUCIANO RAMOS Pensioner Luciano Ramos, 95, passed away January 17. He signed on with the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1946 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU ' s AGLIWD. Born in the Philippines, Brother Ramos began receiving his pension in March 1967. JOHN E. ROBBINS John E. Robbins, 53, passed away March 17. Brother Robbins graduated from the Andrew °'§j': Furuseth Training School for entry level seamen in 1964 and joined the union in the port of New York. Brother Robbins sailed in the deck department. He served in the U.S. Army from 1960 to 1962. WALENTY ROZMUS Pensioner W alenty Rozmus, 72, passed away January 18. Born in New Jersey, he joined the union in 1964 in the port of New York. Brother Rozmus began his SIU career aboard Great Lakes vessels and later transferred his book to the deep sea division. Sailing in the engine department, he upgraded to QMED at the Lundeberg School. A World War II veteran, he served in the U.S. Anny from 1942 to 1946. Brother Rozmus retired in October 1985. JOSE L. ROMERO ~ Pensioner Jose L. Romero, 65, passed away March 18. A native of Texas, he began his sailing career with the SIU in 1951 from the port of Galveston, Texas. He shipped in the steward department. Brother Romero began receiving his pension in September 1988. pleted the steward recertification course at the Lundeberg School in 1980. Brother Wilson began receiving his pension in April 1990. INLAND JOHN BENITEZ John Benitez, 59, died ;;; March 12, ti J:~~!~~e signed on with the Seafarers in 1953 in the port of New York. Boatman Benitez sailed as a member of the deck department. ROGER R. FARROW Pensioner Roger R. Farrow, 67, passed away September 18, 1994. A native of North Carolina, he joined the SIU in 1971 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Boatman Farrow sailed in the deck department. He began receiving his pension in May 1989. JEFFREY D. SERMAN EDWARD A. SCHAEFFER Jeffrey D. Serman, 42, passed away May 5, 1994. Born in Ohio, Brother Serrnan joined the Seafarers in 1990 in the port of Wilmington, Calif. Brother Serman shipped in the deck department. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1972 to 1975. Pensioner Edward A. Schaeffer, 86, died February 19. Boatman Schaeffer joined the SIU in 1956 in the port of Baltimore. He sailed in both the engine and deck departments. A native of Maryland, Boatman Schaeffer retired in November 1980. PETERSPATALO EARL STABLER Pensioner Peter Spatalo, 75, died December 12, 1994. Born in New Jersey, he began sailing with the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1940 from the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Spatalo retired in December 1975. Pensioner Earl Stabler, 74, passed away January 31. A native of Alabama, he signed on with the union in 1974 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Boatman Stabler sailed in the deck department. A World War II veteran, he served in the U.S. Army from 1942 to 1946. Boatman Stabler began receiving his pension in February 1984. O.B.D. THOMPSON Pensioner O.B.D. Thompson, 76, died March 13. Brother Thompson signed on with the SIU as a charter member in 1938 in the port of Mobile, Ala. He sailed in the deck department. Born in Alabama, he began receiving his pension in January 1973. JOSEPH TRAMONTANIC Pensioner Joseph Tramontanic, 79, passed away January 18. He began sailing with the Seafarers in 1948 from the port of New York. Brother Tramontanic shipped in the engine department and upgraded to QMED at the Lundeberg School. A veteran of World War II, he served in the U.S. Coast Guard from 1942 to 1945. Born in Yugoslavia, he became a naturalized U.S. citizen. Brother Tramontanic retired in December 1990. WILLIE F. WILSON Pensioner Willie F. Wilson, 78, died March 19. Born in Alabama, Brother Wilson joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1939, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. He corn- GREAT LAKES WOODROW L. MULL Pensioner Woodrow L. Mull, 78, died March 12. Born in Michigan, he joined the union in the port of Frankfort, Mich. in 1961, sailing as a porter and coalpasser for the Arcadia (Mich.) Railroad No. 1 and the Ann Arbor (Mich.) Car Ferries Railroad from 1960 to 1979. Brother Mull began receiving his pension in February 1979. ATLANTIC FISHERMEN DANNY CIARAMITARO Pensioner Danny Ciaramitaro, 87, died February 28. He signed on with the Atlantic Fishermen's Union as a charter member in 1938 in the port of Gloucester, Mass. Brother Ciaramitaro was skilled at making and repairing fishing nets and was known as one of the best twine men in Gloucester. Born in Massachusetts, he began receiving his pension in April 1972. �22 MAY1995 SEAFARERS LOG Lundeberg School Graduating Classes SEAFARERS HARRY LUNDEBERG SCHOOL LIFEBOAT CLASS 535 I Chief Steward Class- Marking their graduation from the nine-week chief steward class are (from left) Sedonia Sparks, Michel Noeffer, Alan W. Bartley, Ben Henderson, Amy K. Rippel, Gum Poy Wong and Saundra Leonard. -·-=--. Trainee Lifeboat Class 535- Graduating from trainee lifeboat class 535 are (from left, kneeling) Robert C. Hoppenworth, Auja L. Rogers, Jeffrey M. Gill, Christopher L. Millikan, (second row) James A. Fekany, Randall W. Reed, Jeffrey K. Spradlin, Julie D. Gramling, Johnny Delgado and Troy Gruber (instructor). Hydraulics- Completing the hydraulics class on Maf9h 15 are (front row, from left) Sean Nolan, Edward Rynberg, John Groom, (second row) George Hoopes, DiMarko Shoulders, Dan Holden (instructor), Stanley Golden, Dennis Riley and Steven Melendez. Welding- Certificates of graduation were received on March 15 by upgrading members taking the welding class. They are (kneeling, from left) Michael Novak, William Mogg, Craig Niedzielski, (second row) Samuel Garrett, Robert Ashmore, Gregory Eastwood and William McClure (instructor). Advanced Firefighting- Upgrading SIU members completing the advanced firefighting course on March 9 are (from left, kneeling) John Smith (instructor), David Sundling, John Crockett, Nicholas Conway, Stephen Welsh, John Gibbons, Jose A. Lopez, (second row) Gustavo Osorio, Michael Morrissey, Larry Jones, Robert Torres, Robert Papale, Michael Ellis, Frank Hedge, Mark Ramsey, (third row) Christopher Conlin, Phillip Yeomans, Charles Brr.1shaw, Jerrry Stropich, Raymond McKnight, Lawrence Holbert, Scott A. Coburn, Thomas Stropich, William Shelly and Randy Peterson. �MAY1995 23 SEAFARERS LOG LUNDEBERG SCHOOL 1995 UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE The following is the course schedule for classes beginning bet\\\een May and October 1995 at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship located at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Pinex Point, Md. All programs are geared to improve job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. The course schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and-in times of conflict-the nation's security. Please note that students should check in the Friday before their course's start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. Deck Upgrading Courses Steward Upgrading Courses Course Assistant Cook/Cook and Baker, Chief Cook, Chief Steward Course QMED ·Any Rating Diesel Engine Technology Refrigeration Technician Certification Fireman/Watertender & Oiler Start Date Date of Completion Able Seaman July 31 October20 Bridge Management (Shiphandling) July 17 October9 July 28 October 20 Hydraulics Lifeboatman July 17 July 28 Marine Electrical Maintenance I Limited License/License Prep. July 3 September 25 August 11 November3 Radar Observer/Unlimited May22 July 10 August 14 September 25 May26 July 14 August 18 October29 Third Mate August28 December 15 Power Plant Maintenance Pumproom Maintenance Refrigeration Systems & Maint. Welding Basic Electronics Marine Electronics Course Start Date Date of Completion Advanced Firefighting September 11 September 22 Oil Spill Safety Recertification May 25 June 22 July 20 September 21 October 19 May25 June22 July 20 September 21 October19 Oil Spill Prevention & Containment August 7 Augustll Sealift Operations and Maintenance June 5 October9 June30 November3 Tanker Operations May 22 June 19 July 17 August 14 September 11 October9 June 16 July 14 August 11 Septembers October6 November3 Course Deck Inland Designated Duty Engineer/ Limited License/License Prep. Radar Observer/Inland Welding Electronics Hydraulics Date of Completion Junes November 6 August 7 Start Date May29 Augustl4 October23 July 24 Date of Completion June9 August25 November3 August4 May8 May22 July 17 September 25 May12 June2 July 28 October6 Additional Courses Course GED Preparation Adult Basic Education (ABE) and English as a Second Language (ESL) Recertification Programs Steward Recertification Date of Completion November 3 July 28 November 3 June 23 June 30 July 14 October 20 December 15 July 7 November 10 June 30 September 8 August 25 September 22 October 6 November 17 June 2 June 30 Inland Courses Safety Specialty Courses Start Date May 1 October 2 July 3 Start Date August 14 July 3 October 9 June 19 June 26 May 1 August 7 October 2 June 5 October 9 May 22 July 31 July 17 September 11 August 28 October 23 May 8 June 5 All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. Course Bosun Recertification Date of Completion September8 November17 Engine Upgrading Courses Course . Start Date June 16 August25 Start Date Mayl August22 Junes Septembers Date of Completion July 21 November to July 28 October27 Deck and Engine Department College Courses Course Session II Start Date June 5 Date of Completion July 28 Session III September 5 October 27 --~----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- UPGRADING APPLICATION Primary language spoken Name _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Address (First) (Last) (Middle) ------------------------(Street) (City) (Zip Code) (State) Date of Birth _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Telephone_...._-~-----(Area Code) (Month/Day/Year) lnland Waters Member D Lakes Member D Deep Sea Member D -· With this application, COPIES of your discharges must be submitted showing sufficient time to quo.Lify yourselffor the course(s) requested You also must submit a COPY of each of the following: the.first page ofyour union book indicating your department and seniority, your clinic card and the front and back of your z-card as well as your Lundeberg School identification card listing the course(s) you have taken and completed The admissions office WILL NOT schedule you until all of the above are received. END BEGIN DATE DATE COURSE If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed Social Security # Book # _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Seniority - - - - - - - - - - - - - D e p a r t m e n t _ _ _ _ _ __ U.S. Citizen: D Yes D No Home Port - - - - - - - - - - - Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS trainee program? DYes DNo If yes, class# - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Have you attended any SHLSS upgrading courses? DYes DNo If yes, course(s) taken _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? DYes DNo Firefighting:DYes DNo CPR:DYes LAST VESSEL: - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Rating: _ _ _ __ Date On: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Date O f f : - - - - - - - - - - DNo NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. RETURN COMPLETED APPLICATION TO: Lundeberg School of Seamanship, Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075. 5195 �SEAFARERS Have you planned your summer vacation? The Lundeberg School can provide you and your family with all the ingredients for an exciting vacation. For details and rates, see page 11. . ~ ~ .... O'Yy -:>»:='~ ,..,~ <""''~:::>~><%" •' .. •:::w. ~;.;:-w,« ~"* Volume 57, Number 5 May 1995 Narin's Journey From World War II Boxer and Seaman To Loyal Volunteer SIU charter member Ben Narin, 80, spends each day helping other senior citizens in his native Philadelphia. Whether driving someone between a doctor's office and home, consoling a person after the loss of a loved one or assisting with feeding at a local nursing home, Narin maintains an extremely busy volunteer schedule. Many of the people he aids are friends. Many more are strangers. Few would suspect the harrowing experiences which Narin, a lifelong trade unionist, survived during his years as a merchant mariner. An extrovert who possesses an unusual blend of ruggedness and kindheartedness, N arin survived two sinkings during World War II, spending a total of more than two weeks in lifeboats. On other occasions during the war, he narrowly avoided becoming a prisoner of war, permanently lost sight in one eye due to a shipboard injury, and was hospitalized in Beirut for three months because of typhoid fever. Narin also suffered a severe stab wound while fighting in the Spanish Civil War prior to World War II. Perhaps it is not surprising that from the late 1930s until he stopped sailing in 1944, Narin's idea of recreation was boxing. He trained aboard ship and fought all his bouts overseas, while his vessels were in port. He won the vast majority of his 90 fights, all against foreigners. "He has always been tough but friendly," says Paula Gart, one of Narin's twin daughters. Sailing at 13 Benjamin Leonard Narinsky was 13 years old in 1927, the year his father passed away. (He eventually shortened his last name.) Soon thereafter, he quit school and began searching for a way to help support his mother, brother and four sisters. "I was hopping boxcars, I didn't know where I was going," says Narin. ''Then I joined the merchant marine. I loved it." He lied about his age and caught a job as an OS aboard a Belgianflag ship. For the next 10 years, he sent his family what little money he earned at sea. In 1937, Narin sailed on a ship to Spain. While in port, he joined with the forces fighting against those of General Francisco Franco, who was backed by Nazi Germany and fascist Italy. "I was a crazy kid and I wasn't scared of anything, and I wanted to help," Narin explains. He fought for months before a bayonet wound temporarily rendered him lame. (The war lasted three years and resulted in more than 1 million casualties. Franco's side won.) After he returned home and his wound healed, Narin heard about the newly formed Seafarers International Union. "I was always a union man, always believed in them," he notes. He joined the SIU in 1939 in Philadelphia and returned to sea. Undeterred by his experience in Spain, Narin utilized his knowledge of freight and cargo operations to assist Jews in Palestine during the early stages of their battle for independence. He helped them on and off for a year, when his ship was in port. "I was able to get guns, food and other supplies for them. I'm Jewish, I felt I should help," he recalls. Close Call In December 1941, N arin was working as an AB on an SIU-contracted ship that was in port near Japan. "We had been there about a month. We left a few days before the attack on Pearl Harbor," he remembers. "If we hadn't left when we did, I'm sure we would have been POWs." His luck took a downward tum after the U.S. entered the war, though it could have been worse. In 1942, Narin survived a sinking in the Atlantic, eventually being rescued after nine days in a lifeboat. Later that year, during a severe storm, he fell and sustained a detached retina in his left eye. The injury eventually led to total blindness in that eye. But he kept sailing, even after a horrifying experience in 1943. Narin does not remember the name of the ship, only that it was sailing "somewhere in the Pacific." A Japanese submarine torpedoed and sank the vessel, and the survivors got into two lifeboats. "Then the Japanese sub came up and [machine-gunned] everyone in the other lifeboat." Everyone in that lifeboat was killed. The submarine's captain, who spoke English, emerged from his craft and loudly instructed the remaining survivors to warn their countrymen that the Allies wouldn't win the war. He then went back inside, and the submarine again slipped under the water. A week later, Narin and the others were rescued. Back to Sea Like so many of his fellow Seafarers from that period, N arin was not easily discouraged. After the incident in the Pacific, he resumed sailing. "I never thought about quitting. We had a patriotic duty," he says. He also continued boxing. Using the ring-name Benny Leonard, N arin fought at a weight of 160 pounds. He often faced opponents-pros as well as amateurs-who were as much as 20 pounds heavier, but he almost never lost. Accounts of some of his bouts appeared in the Seafarers LOG. "I was in top shape," he says. "I never smoked or drank, and I trained a lot on the ships." N arin relates that he never had trouble finding an opponent in the foreign ports. "As long as you were American, they wanted to see you fight" But both his sailing career and From his days of boxing by training aboard ship in the '40s to his current recognition for dedicated volunteer work (inset), Narin has always lived life to its fullest. his avocation of fighting were curbed a short time after the incident in the Pacific. Narin was struck with typhoid fever, an acute infectious disease acquired by ingesting contaminated food or water. He was taken off his ship, the William Patterson, in Beirut and spent the next three months in a hospital. After recovering, he made a trip on the Azalea City. Brother Perishes Narin never considered retiring from the sea because of his own hardships, but in the summer of 1944, his sailing career came to a tragic conclusion. Narin's older brother, Isadore, a member of another maritime union, was in San Francisco Bay aboard the Quinault Victory when an explosion devastated the ship. Isadore was one of the 23 crewmembers killed in the blast; there were 12 survivors. "We didn't see each other too often, but we were close," says Narin, who received several citations for his war service. At the urging of his sisters, Narin reluctantly stopped sailing. His timing proved fortunate. He was about to sign on the Azalea City again when he acquiesced to his sisters' wishes. Weeks later, the ship was sunk. By 1946, Narin had gotten married and his wife had given birth to twin girls. Narin got a job in the mail room of the Philadelphia Inquirer newspaper, where he would work for 23 years as a member of the Teamsters. He still maintains his Teamsters membership. "I believe in unions," he explains. "If it weren't for unions, people would be working for nothing." Narin retired 18 years ago, and since then has remained active with local charities and other volunteer organizations. Several groups have honored him for his efforts, and hundreds of people have written to thank Narin for his kind deeds. Despite his tough upbringing, his boxing exploits and his near-fatal experiences, Narin considers himself fortunate. "God has been good to me. I figure the best thing I can do is help other people," he says. Additionally, he is in good health and works out every day, running, playing handball and occasionally hitting the punching bags. "I don't take any medication," says Narin, who weighs 140 pounds. "Sometimes I feel like I'm 20." N arin needed all of his strength-along with plenty of support from family and friends-two years ago, when he was staggered by the death of his wife of 49 years, Ethel. "She was never sick ... but there's a reason why God takes you," Narin reflects. He took the loss very hard, but refused to dwell on it. Instead, he increased his already full schedule of volunteer activities. In accordance with his faith, he also began attending daily religious services to mourn Ethel's passing. "I thank God for the strength to keep doing whatever I can to help others," he concludes. N arin's Grandson . Retraces Merchant Mariners' Stories Jason Gart, grandson of SIU charter member Ben Narin, is a 23-year-old graduate student at Arizona State University. His thesis topic is the treatment of U.S. merchant mariners before, during and immediately following World War TI. While researching the subject, Gart has met with more than 100 retired merchant mariners who sailed during the war. "You have this vision of rough people who drink and curse," Gart says. "But the seamen I've met, they are the nicest people in the world. They've welcomed me into their homes, cooked for me. And the bond between them is incredible. They're real proud of what they did." Less appealing to Gart is the plight of World War II merchant mariners who didn't receive veterans status until 1988. "The government shafted them," says Gart. "That's one reason why I'm writing about this. I want to help set the record straight." (Editor's note: Gart would like to communicate with other merchant mariners who sailed during the 1930s and/or 1940s. He may be reached at P. 0. Box 2024, Newport Beach, CA 92659, telephone (714) 640-4771.) "'-' • ~ _ _..., Jason Gart pores through old bound volumes of the Seafarers LOG as part of his thesis research. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 1990-1999 Description An account of the resource Volumes LII-LXI Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993; Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource May 1995 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES FULL SENATE READY TO CONISDER LIFTING ASLAKSAN OIL EXPORT BAN RANK-AND-FILE PANEL APPROVES FINANICAL RPORTS SIU WINS PAY PACKAGE FOR MEMBER’S LOST IN SEA-REFLAGGING HOUSE MARINE PANL BEGINS HEARINGS ON US. FLAG SHIP BILL UNION EXPANDS POLITICAL EFFORTS RUNAWAY SHIPOWNER ABANDONS CREW, VESSEL GL TOWING PACT RATIFIED BY CREWS SEAFARERS APPROVE 10-YEAR CROWLEY RO/RO ACCORD NEW BEDFORD SEAFARERS SEEK ALTERNATIVE FISHING SITES COAST GUARD CEASES FEE COLLECTION FOR MERCHANT MARINER’S DOCUMENTS ITF, COAST GUARD REPS TACKLE SAFETY ISSUES CLINIC OPENS FOR TEXAS BOATMEN EX-SEAFARER DISCOVERS HIDDEN SEA TREASURES TANKER COURSE STRESSES ACCIDENT PREVENTION BOATMEN USE MOORE’S LANDING AS STAGING AREA FOR TUGS/BARGES UNION GAINS PAY, BENEFITS PACKAGE FOR CREWS AFFECTED BY S-L FLAG SWITCH KIDS RATE A PINEY POINT VACATION TOPS WHY POLITICAL ACTION IS SO IMPORTANT ANOTHER BOOMING SAILING SEASON TAKES OFF ON LAKES HERO STATUS GOES TO CREW, BOSUN SAYS SAFETY IS PRIORITY #1 FOR LIBERTY SEA CREW SEAFARERS ABOARD CAR CARRIER WITNESS PIERSIDE COLLISION IN NJ SMOOTH SAILING REPORTED ABOARD SEALIFT CARIBBEAN NARIN’S JOURNEY FROM WORLD WAR II BOXER AND SEAMAN TO LOYAL VOLUNTEER Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 05/01/1995 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 57, No 5 1995 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/0d6c26929b30b26884060f8a62fdc264.pdf e1e8510f23f4c3474ccf074f7c6a552c PDF Text Text House Panel, DOT Present U.S. Ship Bill Page3 Volume 57, Number 4 April 1995 MALTA BAHAMAS PANAMA CYPRUS I MARSHALL ISLA OS As shipowners abandon their own national flags, conditions for the world's seamen are deteriorating at a frightening pace. A runaway-flag inspected by ~ an SIU of Canada official illustrates the deplorable situations on these vessels. Pages 12-13. �2 SEAFARERS LOG APRIL 1995 President's Report Study Finds U.S. Gor11t Ship Programs Return More Dollars Than They Take I Time to Lift the Ban Last month, Congress began action that would end the restrictions on exporting Alaskan North Slope oil. The Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee overwhelmingly approved S. 395 and sent the bill to the whole Senate for its consideration. The SIU applauds this effort and urges the rest of Congress to follow the committee's example. In allowing the export of Alaskan oil, S. 395 stipulates that it will be carried to overseas ports on U.S.-flag vessels with American crews. This means business for the independent U.S.-flag tanker fleet and jobs for Michael Sacco Seafarers. Production of North Slope oil has been cut back because of an oil glut in the Pacific Coast marketplace. With the reduced production, there has not been as much oil for tankers to transport to refineries in California, Oregon and Washington. Congress prohibited export of the petroleum when, in 1973, it approved the construction and operation of the pipeline to move oil from Alaska's northern regions to port facilities in Valdez. The SIU supported such a restriction at that time because the United States was heavily dependent on importing foreign oil and was caught in the grip of the first Arab oil embargo. The embargo was generated by a cartel of mainly Middle Eastern nations who controlled the output and price of oil worldwide during the 1970s and 1980s. The oil pumped out of Alaska was carried on U.S.-flag tankers to refineries along the West Coast as well as to some on the Gulf Coast. Because of the embargo and other crises that followed, Americans learned to become more energy conscious. Cars are smaller and get better fuel mileage. Lights burn just as brightly, but use less wattage. Homes, offices and other buildings are better insulated to stay warmer in winter and cooler in summer with less energy expended. These factors and many more have helped make America more energy independent than it was in 1973. But times have changed. The cartel no longer exists. And Americans are using less energy than they had been expected to if efficiency measures had not gone into place. The SIU, along with several other maritime unions, announced last year it had changed its position and would allow the export of Alaskan oil as long as it was carried aboard U.S.-flag tankers. Such legislation was introduced in Congress. During the 1990s, many tankers have gone into layup because less crude oil has been pumped out of Alaska. Some of the ships have been sold for scrap. This situation has placed the United States in a dangerous position with regard to national security because the independent tanker fleet, and its crews of American mariners, would not be available in times of national emergency or war. During Operation Desert Stonn/Desert Shield, for example, some of the supplies for American troops had to be delivered by foreign-flag vessels because the United States simply did not have enough merchant ships. And, in several instances, the foreign crews refused to enter the war zone, thus delaying needed materiel for several days until it could be transferred to an American vessel which ultimately delivered the goods. S. 395 will get our independent tanker fleet operating again. Exporting Alaskan North Slope oil will open new markets and allow more oil to be pumped. With more crude oil flowing down the pipeline, more tankers will be needed to carry the petroleum. The need for more tankers means those in the yards can start sailing again with American seafarers at the helm, in the engineroom and in the galley. The Department of Energy has given its blessing to exporting Alaskan oil. In a report released last year, the agency said lifting the ban would produce thousands of American jobs in maritime, oil and other related industries. It also would help lower the nation's deficit. The SIU will continue to push Congress to implement S. 395. The time has come to lift the ban on the export of Alaskan oil as long as the cargo is transported aboard U.S.-flag tankers. Volume 57, Number 4 An 18-month study on the economic impact of cargo preference and operating differential subsidy programs for the U.S.-flag merchant marine reveals that for every dollar given in support of the fleet, $1.15 is returned to the government. Released March 10, the study entitled "Economic Analysis of Federal Support for the Private Merchant Marine" reports the contribution of the merchant marine to the U.S. economy in 1992 included approximately 107,000 jobs that are directly or indirectly tied to the fleet, as much as $4.5 billion in individual incomes, $738 million in federal personal and business income taxes, and $3.8 billion in foreign exchange. Nathan Associates, which conducted the study on behalf of the American Maritime Congress, a research organization re presenting U.S.-flag ship operators, reviewed the impact that cargo preference and the operating differential subsidy have on the merchant fleet as well as the nation's economy. The Washington, D.C.-based economic and management consulting firm found both programs return more money to the U.S. treasury than they take. . . . L1m1ted to Foreign Trade The research firm reviewed facts and figures supplied by the U.S. government and individual U.S.-flag operating companies for the period 1988 to 1992, the last year that complete data were available. Under the title of U.S.-flag merchant fleet, the study included privately owned, comrriercial vessels involved in U.S. foreign trade, intermodal ships sailing in foreign-toforeign trade and Military Sealift Command (MSC) chartered vessels. The study did not include any vessels involved in Jones Act trade or any government-owned ships. (The Jones Act, enacted in 1920, calls for cargo transported between two domestic ports to be carried by U.S.-flag and U.S.owned ships and crewed by American mariners.) Also left out were the operators of tankers, such as the SIU-crewedETC fleet of LNG tankers between Indonesia and Japan, whose vessels do not handle preference cargo. The study was being provided to members of Congress, the Clinton administration and U.S.- flag shipping operators. Nathan Associates came to the conclusion that the U.S.-flag "merchant marine would have ceased to exist without cargo preference. If forced to compete against foreign-flag vessels for U.S. government-impelled cargoes that are now set aside for the merchant marine, operators of merchant marine vessels would not be cost competitive." The• study notes the higher capital cost of building and maintaining U.S.-flag vessels as the major reason for such a statement. It goes on to say that crew costs aboard foreign-flag vessels average about 30 percent of what U.S.-flag operators have to pay. "Higher crew costs on U.S.-flag vessels reflect payroll taxes, pension contributions, health insurance benefits and other non-wage benefits that are importantpartsofcompensationpaidby [U .S.-flag] merchant marine operators. "These benefits are often either not provided to crews on foreignflag vessels or are funded out of the general taxrevenuesofthecountry of the foreign-flag operator. The additional cost burden borne by the [U.S.-flag] merchant marine is due to strict U.S. environmental, safety and labor regulations," Nathan Associates reported. Program Pays for Itself The study noted that without cargo preference laws, which require set percentages of Department of Defense (DoD) and Department of Agriculture cargoes be carried on U.S.-flag vessels, all such goods would have been carried aboard foreign-flag ships in 1992. This would have had the ripple effect of U.S. mariners losing their jobs, U.S. tax revenues being decreased, U.S. shipping revenues going down and U.S.-produced goods and services for merchant ships being substituted with foreignproduced products. The study stated that cargo preference legislation had an economic impact on the United States during 1992 of 40,000 jobs, $2.2 billion in household inconie, $1.2 billion in foreign exchange and $354 million in federal tax revenues, which represents $1.26 being returned to the government for every dollar it spent on the program. As part of its review of the effect that cargo preference laws have on the fleet and economy, Nathan Associates looked into the methods used by the DoD to determine how much it spends on the program. .The research organization found discrepancies in the way DoD calculated costs. Among these were the inclusion of costs associated with Jones Act trade as well as overhead for MSC. In trying to come up with the cost of cargo preference to DoD, the department compared rate costs for foreign shipments of products not even transported for military use-such as logs and lumber. Also, DoD did not accurately reflect the percentage of cargo carried to determine the cost According to Nathan Associates, these acts drove up by millions of dollars the estimated cargo preference cost to the military. Finally, the cargo preference review quotes the vice commander of the MSC, Wallace T. Sansone, at a 1993 hearing before the House Merchant Marine Subcommittee as saying that, because of a 1904 law, DoD cannot be charged more for shipments than any private entity would be charged for shipping similar items. Aids Competitiveness With regard to operating differential subsidies (ODS), the Nathan Associates study found that in 1992 this program provided for 31,000 jobs, $1.6 billion in household income, $900 million in foreign exchange and $268 million in federal tax revenues--0r $1.24 returned for every dollar provided by the government. The study noted, "Without ODS payments to offset the higher cost of U.S. crews, the [U.S.-flag] merchant marine would have been less competitive." It added that U.S.-flag operators could recapture the ODS costs by reflagging their ships and using foreign crews. "Once reflagged, however, their vessels could not participate in cargo preference. Liner operators would have to weigh the loss of ODS against the combined loss of ODS and cargo preference. Without one or the other program, they might not survive as part of the [U.S.-flag] merchant marine. Without both, they might not survive as part of the fleet of U.S.owned, foreign-flag vessels," the study concluded. Caribbean Responder Crew Drills for Swiftness April 1995 The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 0160-2047) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District; AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone(301) 899-0675. Second-class postage paid at MSC Prince Georges, MD 20790-9998 and at additional mailing offices. POS1MASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers WG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Managing Editor, Daniel Duncan; Associate Editors, Jordan Biscardo and Corrina Christensen Gutierrez; Associate Editor/Production, Deborah A Hines; Art, Bill Brower; Administrative Support, Jeanne Textor. Being able to quickly and efficiently respond to an oil spill is the job of the crew of the Caribbean Responder. To ensure proper training, the vessel holds mock oil spill drills once a week. Following one such drill, crewmembers return to port in San Juan. P.R. They are (from left) ABfTankerman Walter Radcliffe, OMU John Perez, 2nd Mate Paul Schwartz, Chief Mate Robert Johnson and AB Chris Wood. �APRIL 1995 SEAFARERS LOB 3 Ship Bill Hits House Panel DOT Introduces New Program Actions taken last month by government and congressional officials have prepared a 10-year, $1 billion maritime revitalization program for consideration by a Representative Herbert H. Bateman (A-Va.), chairman of the House Merchant Marine Oversight Panel, House of Representatives panel pledged that his congressional panel will move quickly on a bill that advances the security of a U.S.-flag this month. liner fleet. Similar sentiments were voiced by panel members Gene Taylor (D-Miss.), second from right, After administration officials and Neil Abercrombie (D-Hawaii), right. crafted a new bill calling for annual funding for approximately 50 U.S.flag containerships, Transportation ·n A 5enaI e Comm1 ee pproves L·1n·1ng Alaska 0·11 Export Ban The full Senate is expected to act soon on legislation that would allow the exportation of Alaskan North Slope oil aboard U.S.-flag tankers following passage of the bill by the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee on March 15. During a March 1 hearing on the measure, SIU President Michael Sacco testified that lifting the ban would help the U.S.flag independent tanker fleet and provide more jobs for American seafarers. By a 14-4 vote in a bipartisan show of support, the Alaska Power Administration Sale Act (S.395) was marked up and made ready for action by the Senate. No date for a floor debate has been set by the clerk of the Senate. However, the chairman of the House Resources Committee, Representative Don Young (RAlaska), has said his body is willing to consider the Senate legislation rather than take up a similar bill (H.R. 70) offered by Representative Bill Thomas (R-Calif.). S. 395, sponsored by Senator Frank Murkowski CR-Alaska), chairman of the Energy and Natural Resources Committee, would end the 22-year ban to sell Alaskan North Slope oil to wrote Johnston, "I can state foreign countries. Congress ap- categorically that S. 395, as curproved the ban following the rently drafted, Arab oil embargo of 1973. does not No Trade Violations The vote took place after Senator J. Bennett Johnston (DLa.), the ranking minority party member on the committee, received a letlt<!i•~; ter from U.S • Trade Representative %Mickey Kan, tor that S. 395 as written did not present any legal Sen. Murkowski problems with recent intern at ion a 1 agreements on shipbuilding and world trade. During a March I hearing on the bill, Johnston had requested a clarification from the Clinton administration on whether the bill violated the Organization of Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) shipbuilding agreement as well as the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GAIT). With regard to GAIT, Kantor presentaleg~ one considered by Congress in the last session in that the new program is to run 10 years and provide funding for approximately 50 U.S.-flag liner vessels. It calls for the vessels enrolled in the program to be less than 15 years old, or less than five if foreignbuilt, and to be made available to the Department of Defense during times of national emergency or war. The legislation would provide $2.5 million for up to 40 ships during each of the first three answered questions about the pro- years. It then would authorize $2 gram during a March 28 hearing on million for up to 50 vessels each the Maritime Administration of the remaining seven years. (MarAd) budget held by the House Funding Source Different Merchant Marine Oversight Panel. Finally, U.S. Representative The difference between what Herbert H. Bateman (R-Va.), was submitted in 1993 and what chairman of the panel, stated is being proposed this year is the during the hearing that his group means through which the act will begin the process of con- would be funded. As proposed by sidering the maritime revitaliza- Secretary Pena last month, tion legislation with a formal maritime revitalization would hearing on April 6. receive its money from an annual Bateman, whose district in- direct appropriation in the eludes the SIU hall in Norfolk, Va. Transportation Department and the Newport News-area budget. shipyards, is a longtime supporter In the bill, passed with overof the U.S.-flag merchant fleet. As whelming bipartisan support by he opened the hearing on MarAd's the House last year but killed by budget authorization package, the farm-state senators through a parchairman said he wants to see pas- liamentary maneuver, funding sage of a maritime revitalization was raised through increases in bill this year. tonnage fees paid by vessels entering U.S. ports. Included in Budget In offering the legislation, Pena In releasing during February stated, ''The American merchant its budget for operating the marine provides vital and cost-effederal government during Fiscal fective national security sealift and Year 1996, the Clinton ad- ensures a competitive presence in ministration included an annual our vast commercial trade." $100 million appropriation in the Critical to Security Department of Transportation During the March 28 meeting (DOT) account for maritime of the House Merchant Marine revitalization. ~~::,::eri~~ re~:iar:~~ ~~f~tr;?~rin;I't;e~an~eer~~; Pr 0 b 1em : (Created rn ~948, GATT is the world trad.e accord designed .to Sen. Johnston en_d . discnmrnatory trade . prac. tices and reduce trade ban:e~s. In the_ latest rm~nd of negotiations, wh1chended_m 1993, thep~ct was upd~ted to mclud~ . a vanety of services, but mantime w~s excluded. The agreement ts enforce~ b.Y the World _Trade Orgamzat10n, created dunng the last round of talks.) Kan tor's letter, dated March 9, then stated that it is his office's belief the bill does not violate the nation's obligations under the OECD pact. To become law, the bill must pass the Senate and the House of Representatives. The measure then must be signed by President Clinton, whose Department of As he outlined the bill, Energy secretary supports the Secretary Pefia said it is similar to legislation. Continued on page 10 SIU Fights Sea-Land1s Reflagging Maneuver The SIU has launched an aggressive counterattack to the recent move by Sea-Land Services, Inc. to transfer five U.S.flag ships to foreign registry. In order to combat the reflagging of the Sea-Land ships Freedom, Mariner, Pride, Value and Motivator from the U.S.-flag to that of the Marshall Islands, the SIU: • Has filed a strongly worded protest with the Maritime Administration (MarAd) regarding its approval of Sea-Land's reflagging request, and asked MarAd to conduct public hearings so that evidence on the impact of reflagging may be gathered and assessed; • Is investigating possible counteractions which may be taken through the International Transport Workers Federation (ITF), whose members include most of the world's seafaring and longshoremen' s unions; and •Is continuing to work closely and vigorously with legislators to ensure that Congress enacts a program as soon as possible to bolster U.S. shipping (and thereby keep vessels such as those of Sea-Land under the American flag). Additionally, as the Seafarers LOG went to press, the union was negotiating with Sea-Land about the effects of the flag-transfers on SIU members. In order to keep Seafarers informed of these and other actions, SIU President Michael Sacco last month sent a communication to members on all SIU-crewed ships and to the union halls detailing the situation. Moreover, he and SIU Executive Vice President Joseph Sacco in early March met with SIU crews aboard the Sea-Land Shining Star and the Sea-Land Performance in Elizabeth, N.J. to discuss the union's strategies to thwart the company's reflagging moves. tainerships to foreign flags. But MarAd delayed its response because Congress was considering maritime revitalization legislation that year and in '94. Then, last November, the company submitted a new peti- tion to MarAd requesting permission to reflag five of its ships (three SL-31 class vessels and two D9Js). MarAd approved the petition on February 14; Sea-Land then quickly began the reflagging operations, which are scheduled to be completed by April 12. In its protest to MarAd, the SIU charged that permitting the reflagging is damaging to the naContinued on page 10 2nd Reflagging Request On February 14, MarAd approved the removal of the five Sea-Land ships from U.S. registry. Sea-Land, a subsidiary of the Richmond, Va.-based CSX Corp., originally petitioned MarAd in June 1993 for approval to transfer 13 of its U.S.-flag con- Meeting with Seafarers aboard the Sea-Lanc;J Shini!1g St:i!ron March 4 in.Elizab~th, N.J. to discuss ~he union's actions regarding Sea-Land's reflagging of five ships are SIU President Michael Sacco (standing fifth from right) and SIU Executive VP Joseph Sacco (second from right). Crewmembers who took part m the discussions include (from left, kneeling) AB Tom Harding, Chief Cook Gary Lackey, AB P. Hare, EU Sammy Perez (standing, fourth from right), Bosun Eddy Stwaeard (far right) and others. �4 APRIL 1995 SEAFARERS LOG Maritime Briefs J JI Senate Whip Looks for Ways ~--~~~~~~~~~--~R~~CargoP~renoo I Matson Starts Program To Reduce Sea Pollution Seafarers-contracted Matson Navigation Co. recently began a program designed to halt the dumping of any solid wastes at sea by its vessels which sail between the West Coast and Hawaii. Known as Zero Solid Waste Discharge, the voluntary program has proven extremely successful, said Captain Lynn Korwatch, general manager of marine operations for Matson. "We carry all of our garbage for a two-week trip and then use an incinerator in Oahu to incinerate," she added. "We felt we had an obligation to make our environment as clean as possible. But the main thing is, this couldn't work without the participation of the crew. They're the ones who have made it successful." Korwatch noted that the Washington-based Center for Marine Conservation last year approached Matson to start a pilot program on one vessel. Since then, plans have been modified and extended throughout Matson' s fleet. Only food scraps now are thrown overboard from the ships. International law already prohibits vessels from dumping plastics into any waters. Report: Weak Door Lock Led to Estonia's Sinking A weak lock on the door to the Estonia's vehicle deck was one of the primary reasons the ferry sank last September in the Baltic Sea, according to investigators. The Associated Press last month reported that the joint investigation team of representatives from the governments of Sweden, Estonia and Finland have concluded one of the vessel's locks was not strong enough to hold against the 55-mph winds and 18-foot waves which led to the ferry's sinking and the loss of more than 800 lives. The Associated Press report was based on accounts in a Swedish newspaper which had obtained a leaked copy of the investigators' report. The Swedish publication (Dagens Nyheter) indicated the report alleges that in 1979 the German builder of the Estonia did not have accurate blueprints for the lock. The newspaper quoted the report as saying that the shipyard, Meyer-Weft, inaccurately calculated the level of strength needed for the door lock. But the report also states the main responsibility for the sinking lies with the Finnish maritime agency which first inspected and approved the Estonia's safety conditions. New Reg Would Allow CG To Check Driving Records The U.S. Coast Guard has proposed a rule implementing provisions of the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (OPA '90) that would permit the agency to check information from the National Driver Register on an applicant prior to issuing or renewing a merchant mariner's document (also known as a z-card), license or certificate of registry. In explaining the rationale for such a regulation, the Coast Guard indicated that, although a person's motor vehicle record is not directly related to one's maritime career, a record of alcohol- or drug-related or other offenses cited in specific sections of the National Driver Register Act of 1982 (for example, reckless driving or traffic violations arising in connection with a fatal traffic accident) indicates that the individual may have a disregard for his or her own safety or the safety of others, and therefore may not be suitable for maritime employment. This information may be used as a basis for denying, suspending or revoking one's document, license or certificate of registry. The proposed rule also would permit a criminal record check of anyone applying for renewal of a z-card or an endorsement of a z-card with a new expiration date. A conviction of a violent criminal offense would be grounds for denying one's application. A Holiday, No Matter the Place Gathered 'round the Christmas tree aboard the Sea-Land Producer (photo below) are (from left, seated) SA Mohammed Omar, AB Don Morrison, Bosun Jack Edwards, Chief Steward Cassie Tourere, (standing) AB Terry McKee, AB Chris Taylor, Electrician Jim Smitko, Chief Cook Paula Kaleikini and BR Fidel Yamas. At left, other crewmembers join in the holiday festivities, which took place during the vessel's 28-day run from Long Beach, Calif. to Japan and back. They are OMU Ron Giannini, DEU Louie Diaz and AB Mohamed S. Ahmed. Efforts are under way on Capitol Hill to craft legislation that would leave in place the nation's cargo preference laws as Congress looks for ways to reduce the federal budget. U.S. Senator Trent Lott (R-Miss.), chairman of the Senate Surface Transportation and Merchant Marine Subcommittee, has stated in recent newspaper stories that he is working with fellow senators from agricultural states to revise the program so it would appeal to them as well as help the U.S.-flag merchant fleet. Lott, who also holds the second highest position in the Senate as its majority whip, originally announced his efforts to the executive board of the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department during its meeting in February. At that time, the senator said he was aware of efforts in the body to kill cargo preference legislation, which requires that 100 percent of U.S. military cargoes, 75 percent of donated food aid and 50 percent of other U.S. government-generated cargoes be carried aboard U.S.-flag ships. He pledged to form a bipartisan coalition in the Senate to pass such bills. At the meeting, Lott said if maritime and agricultural interests work together, "we can carry their grain on our ships, built in America and crewed by Americans." Every five years, Congress reviews and revises the nation's agricultural policy. When this was last done in 1990, an effort to repeal cargo preference legislation was beaten back in both chambers. However, the new Republican majorities in the House and Senate have said they are looking at ways to cut the budget in order to reduce the nation's deficits. Senator Richard Lugar (R-Ind.), chairman of the Senate Agriculture Committee, has stated he is committed to reducing farm subsidies by $15 billion over the next five years. Looking for Cutbacks Also being mentioned as a place for cutbacks is the P.L. 480 program. Enacted in 1954 as the Agricultural Trade Development and Assistance Act, the bill is made up of three parts. Title I provides grants to lesser developed nations so they can buy American-grown or produced goods. Under Title II, U.S. commodities are donated to developing countries and distributed through private relief groups. The final part, Title ill, offers funds to promote advances in agricultural systems to underdeveloped countries. The movement of food aid under P.L. 480 is covered by cargo preference legislation. Expected in Farm Bill An alliance of maritime organizations Cargo preference legislation is ex- (including the SIU), volunteer relief agenpected to be included in the debate in both cies and agricultural interests is working the Senate and the House of Repre- together to urge Congress to keep funding sentatives to implement a new farm bill. programs like P.L. 480. FMC, Shipping Act of 184 Continue Gaining Support The Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) and the Shipping Act of 1984 last month received bipartisan shows of support from two key lawmakers. Rep. Bud Shuster (R-Pa.), chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, said that recommended changes to the Shipping Act, as well as legislation to deregulate ocean shipping and eliminate the FMC, will be thoroughly examined by the committee before it takes any action. Speaking at the annual meeting of the American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA), Shuster said his committee intends to retain the main functions of the FMC and that it will not "rush to reform." Meanwhile, Rep. James Traficant (DOhio), ranking Democrat on the House Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation, recommended that the FMC and the Shipping Act should be modified, but not eliminated. 'The functions of the FMC need to be maintained, particularly with regard to protecting our ocean carrier industry and shippers against unfair and anticompetitive trade practices of foreign governments and carriers," Traficant said in a prepared statement included in the Congressional Record. Via an exemption to U.S. antitrust laws, the Shipping Act of' 84 allows international shipping lines to jointly set transportation rates, as long as the rate-setting does not cause service cutbacks or unreasonably high costs. This practice helps ensure that everyone has access to the same rate information and was established to protect the interests of U.S. consumers, shippers and shipping operations. The FMC is an independent agency which was established in 1961. Its functions include enforcing provisions of the Shipping Act of '84 that call for fair rates and a nondiscriminatory regulatory process for the common carriage of goods by water in the foreign commerce of the U.S.; fighting any other discrimination or prejudice in U.S. trade; and licensing ocean freight forwarders. Both the commission and the shipping law-which originated in 1916 and was amended in 1961 and 1984--face restructuring or possible elimination this year because of federal budget cuts. And with the atmosphere on Capitol Hill ripe for cutbacks, some shippers have stepped up their call for deregulation of ocean cargo transportation. Backers of the FMC and Shipping Act-including the SIU and many other U.S . maritime unions, lawmakers on both sides of the aisle and U.S.-flag carrierswarn that elimination of the FMC and repeal of the legislation would dangerously drive up rates, cost thousands of maritime-related U.S. jobs and devastate America's sealift capability. Deadline Set Shuster has instructed carriers and shippers to reach a compromise by late April on altering the commission and the Shipping Act. (The committee postponed all votes on transportation bills until after the April recess.) FMC Chairman William Hathaway, also speaking at the meeting of the AAPA, said he believes carriers and shippers will reach an agreement this month. In any case, Shuster' s recognition of the importance of the FMC' s functions represented a change from earlier views expressed by the committee. Shuster acknowledged that many committee members initially sought a "clean and simple" elimination of the commission, but then "we had the minor problem of getting educated" about the FMC' s various important functions. Traficant, on the other hand, has steadily insisted that the "missions of the FMC are absolutely crucial to our trade and global competitive interests." But, he added, "Given the puPlic's general call for smaller and more efficient government, the commission should take steps to downsize and rightsize its operations, just as we expect all government agencies and departments to do." �SEAFARERS LOG APRIL 1995 5 PR Shipping Line Has New Owner Navieras de Puerto Rico, once owned by the Puerto Rican government, is under private management as of March 3. Now called Navieras NPR Inc., the liner company will continue to operate the Humacao, Nuevo San Juan, Carolina, Guayama and Mayaguez. The owner of Navieras is a newly formed company, NPR Inc., which also will serve as the ships' operating company. The responsibilities of Puerto Rico Marine Management Inc. (PRMMI), the former operating company, have been assumed by the Edison, N.J.-based NPR Inc. The sale of the vessels to private interests does not affect the current collective bargaining agreement in place for Seafarers who work aboard those ships. The standard freightship contract will remain in force. NPR Inc. simply will replace PRMMI as the company signator to the standard pact. In a communication to SIU President Michael Sacco, NPR Inc.' s General Manager Industrial Relations Victor M. Car- reras noted that the new company looks forward "to continuing the long, cordial and fruitful association" of the SIU and the Puerto Rican shipping entity. The assets of Navieras previously were held by the Puerto Rico Maritime Shipping Authority (PRMSA), a government agency. With the sale, the assets, including the vessels, have been transferred to NPR Inc., a finance group that includes Pyramid Ventures Inc., a subsidiary of BT Investment Partners and Berkshire Partners and Management. BT, in turn, is a subsidiary of Bankers Trust New York Corp. The Commonwealth of Puerto Rico had been attempting to sell its shipping line, operating under the trade name Navieras de Puerto Rico, for the past year and a half. Puerto Rico's governor, Pedro Rossell6, made the privatization of Navieras a top priority for his administration, issuing an executive order on June 16, 1993 authorizing the sale of Navieras. The sale of Navieras de Puerto Rico and the transfer of operations of the line's management company, PAMMI, does not impact on the collective bargaining agreement between the shipping group and the SIU. Seafarers like (from left) Electricians Miguel A. Alicea and Tony Mohammed, Bosun Tony Mercado and Electrician Orlando Flores will now work for NPR Inc., Navieras' new operating company. The Puerto Rican legislature had approved a sale of the shipping line in September 1994 if the transaction met criteria outlined by the senators and representatives. The sale to NPR Inc. meets the legislature's guidelines. To accomplish the deal, the Puerto Rican government agreed to assume $310 million of debt that Navieras had incurred. It sold the line's assets for $132.4 million. The president of NPR Inc. is Ronald M. Katims, who headed PRMMI in 1974 and for the last 15 years operated a container transport consulting company. In a March 7 press release, Katims announced that Navieras' schedule, including twice weekly service between Jacksonville, Fla. and Puerto Rico, will not change. Shipping Rules Amended to Recognize Upgrading For Shipboard Safety, SAB Also Institutes Seamen's English Proficiency Test The Seafarers Appeals Board certificate stating they have sue- members who have at least 36 (SAB) instituted four rulings in cessfully completed the advanced months seatime in the engine February that will assure Seafarers certified chief cook and certified department, including at least 12 who have upgraded their skills and cook and baker classes offered at months as an electrician, second attained high levels of proficiency the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg electrician or QMED/electrician. in their work are given priority at School of Seamanship. This ac- When proof of such time is subtheir ratings when throwing in for a ti on takes effect on February 13, mitted to the board, the member's shipboard job. 1996. identification will be stamped "cerAdditionally, the SAB, which Because of provisions created tified to sail as chiefelectrician." is made up of representatives of by the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 With the changes in technolthe union and its contracted (OPA '90), action number 376 ogy and governmental regulaoperators, announced that effective deals with members from all tions as well as the continuing June 16, Seafarers must departments who have graduated need for safety on vessels, the demonstrate a command of the from the Lundeberg School's SAB approved action number English language in order to meet tanker operation/safety course. 377. Effective June 16, no memthe safety practices and procedures As of January 1, 1996, any mem- ber will be shipped until he or she inherent to a seaman's work. ber throwing in for a job aboard a can show a basic proficiency in The modifications were ad- tanker or tank vessel who has a reading, writing and undervanced by the union to keep the certificate of completion for the standing English. This action was shipping rules up to date with the course will be given priority. This necessitated by the need to have latest laws and technology affect- action will not affect those mem- all crewmembers able to effecing Seafarers, according to Augie bers with key ratings. They will tively communicate and underTellez, SIU vice president con- be given additional time in which stand any and all job-related tracts. to take the required course. matters. SIU hiring hall officials Action number 375 gives Action number 378 deals ex- will conduct proficiency tests. priority within each class of elusively with the engine depart- Those members who cannot pass seniority in the steward depart- ment. Beginning immediately, the test will be required to attend ment at the time of a job call to priority for shipping for chief and pass an English proficiency galley gang members who have a electrician will be given to those course at the Lundeberg School ------------------------~~foreilieywill~cl~ilile~ · h. BU erwo rth 'S B"rthd I ay presen t register to s tp. The four SAB actions are reprinted in their complete text below in the order in which they were taken up by the joint labor/management board. tt Action #375 Amend Rules by deleting 4th paragraph in Article IV, Shipping Rules Section 5 (6): :'Wit~ineachclassofseniority rating m. th~ Steward £!epartment, priority for the 1obs of S~eward and Third Cook shall be given to the seamen who possess a c~rtifie<!te of recertification in their rating from .the ~teward Depar~ment Recertification fro~ram .m the event such program Forthepleasureofmarkinghis70thbirthday,Recertified8osunPaul is being. offe~ed an~ that the Butterworth (right) participated in the U.S. Coast Guard's biannual Steward ts registered m group 1-S inspection of Crowley's Ambassador. But it wasn't all work on the Steward Department and the big day, February 22. Steward Milton Youmett encouraged a ThirdCookisregisteredinGroup /l, Steward Department, " and .._c_e1_e_b_ra_ti_o_n_b_Y_P_roc:t_u_c_in_g_a_cu_l_in_a_ry_d_e_1_ig_h_tt_o_m_a_rk_t_he_occa __s_io_n_._ replace with: "Within each class ofseniority in the Steward Department, priority for the job of Chief Cook and Cook and Baker shall be given to those seamen who possess a certificate of satisfactory completion of the advanced certified Chief Cook and certified Cook and Baker class offered at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship, if such course is being offered." Action #376 Whereas, the Seafarers Appeals Board promulgated a change in the Shipping Rules as a result ofAgreementsreachedatthe l 993 negotiations with the AMA Standard Tanker negotiations, and Whereas, the Board promulgates rules that are intended to enhance and protect the job security of the membership, and Whereas, after further review, the Board has decided to amend the Shipping Rules as follows. Article IX, Shipping Rules, 5 Preferences and Priorities, will ~amm~d~a~inga~wl~ which shall read as follows. "£~1+. . J 1 1996 . ~1 ecllve. anuary , , priority for 1obs aboard tanker and tank vesse!s covered by these rulesshf!.llbegive.ntotlwsese'!men possessing a ce_rtificate ofsatisfactory completion of the Tanker Safety Course offered by the SeafarersHarryLundebergSclwol of Seamanship, in the event such training is being offered. Action #377 Whereas, new tec~nology, governmenta! regulations and reduced manning denuind that personnel employed aboard all contracted vessels. be pr?perly ~aW:d to perform their routme dutzes with the highest degree .of saf~ty! and .whereas, quality trammg and shipboar~ performance depend on the ability to read, speak and understand English, and Whereas, increasingly the safety and welfare of the crew, cargo and vessel depends on ef- fective communication aboard the vessel, Therefore, effective June 16, 1995, Rule 2 Shipping Procedure, Section B 1 shall be amended by adding the following provision to Rule 2, B 1, which shall read as follows: "No seaman shall be registered for employment who cannot reasonably read, speak and understand English; such proficiency shall be determined and established by the passing of a required English language exam which shall be administered at the SIU hiring halls. Seamen deficient in English shall be required to attend and complete the English proficiency program conducted at the SHLSS prior to being qualified to register." Action #378 Whereas,. new technology and automation have required modification of the various unlicensed ratings employed in the Engine Department, and Whell~emp~me~p~~ are acquired through employment . ;;;,,,. . lo d . he en specl.Ju.- ratmgs emp ye en t Engine Department, Therefore, Rule 5 Preferences andPriorities,SectionA-5(a)shall be amended to read as follows. "Within each class of seniority rating in the Engine Department, priority for the job of Chief El.ectrician shall be given to tlwse seamen wlw have actual seatime aboard vessels covered by these Rules of at least thirty-six (36) months seatime in the Engine Department, including at least twelve (12) months as Electrician, Second Electrician or QMED/Electrician. Upon the submission of proof to the Seafare rs Appeals Board verifying the seatime requirement specific herein, the seaman's seniority identification document shall be stamped "Certified To Sail As Chief Electrician." . February 13, 1995 �.... ---------------~---------------- - - - -- 6 -- SEAFARERS LOG APRIL 1995 'Never Too Old To Learn,' Say 5 Top Stewards With 100 combined years of SIU service to back up their words, the most recent graduating class of recertified stewards had one common theme to pass along to their fellow merchant mariners: You are never too old to learn. "After sailing for 30 years, I didn't think there was much the school could teach me," recounted Travis Jefferson after he was recognized during the March membership meeting in Piney Point, Md. for successfully completing the five-week course, which is the highest curriculum for steward department members. "But, I learned a lot." Jefferson, who began his career with the Marine Cooks and Stewards and joined the SIU when the unions merged in 1978, stated the firefighting and first aid sessions helped him tremendously. He said they would be useful when he returned to sailing from his home port of Seattle. The Seafarers completing the steward recertification program received classroom and hands-on training not only in the galley but also in other areas like CPR, communications principles and computer skills. Adding to their repertoire of meals for fellow crewmembers, the stewards learned to prepare healthier menus and to vary base sauces and soups to create different tastes as well as acquiring new recipes. Another aspect of the course allowed the five galley gang members to meet with union representatives to find out more about contracts, government affairs, the Seafarers LOG and the welfare, training, vacation and pension funds. The importance of continuing one's education was the main theme at the March membership meeting in 'Don't Give Up' Piney Point as each of the recertified stewards was called up to the podium to say a few words and receive Theodore Quammie, a 17- his graduation certificate. With instructor Byran Cummings (left) are (from left) Ed Ombac, Raffaele year member from the port of Ascione, Travis Ray Jefferson, Theodore Quammie and Ronald E. Aubuchon. Jacksonville, Fla., backed Jefferson's comments that the whole course was valuable. "Members have to improve and we have to encourage them to upgrade," he told a reporter for the LOG. "Some people just want to reach a certain peak and stop. "But you have to keep going. You have to reach up," Quammie said. The new recertified steward continued this theme when he addressed the trainees attending the membership meeting, "Come back and upgrade. Remember one thing-don't give up!" Adding his feelings about the need for continuing the learning process was Ronald Aubuchon. I started as a trainee here," he told the membership at the Piney Point meeting. "I have proved that with the proper training and support, there is no limit to your future. "I encourage everyone to take advantage of the courses that are provided for them." Continuing the point made by his fellow recertified stewards, Ed Ombac of Seattle informed the audience, ''There is no limit in learning. This is the place where you can achieve your goal to become one of the best merchant mariners in the world!" Ombac was able to reinforce his words with the fact that he had upgraded at the Lundeberg Notes Many Changes School several times during his The St. Louis-based steward 10 years with the SIU. said the Lundeberg School had For Raffaele Ascione from changed considerably since he the port of New Orleans, the point first entered the union in 1980. "The changes have all been very good for the members," Aubuchon stated. With the assistance of instructor Byran Cummings (center), Ronald Aubuchon (left) and Travis Jefferson learn the proper techniques of CPR, part of the steward recertification curriculum. he most wanted to make to his fellow Seafarers was the need for upgrading. Future Is Important "It is very important for your future and the future of our union to upgrade and make yourself better," said Ascoine, who began sailing with the SIU in 1967. "This is a beautiful, wonderful school with great instructors. Everyone should take advantage of it." An Upgrading BonusReunion of Friends It is not unusual for seafaring friendships to span the years-sometimes crossing oceans and time zones to remain a treasured part of sailing life. So goes the tale of friends and steward department members Ron Aubuchon and Al Bartley. Their friendship stems back to 1981, when as members of trainee class #343 they met at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, Md. While Bartley lives in Texas and Aubuchon resides in St Louis, the two Seafarers have managed to keep their friendship alive for 14 years through cards and visits during return trips to upgrade at Piney Point "We've just been friends from the very beginning," recalled Bartley. "There were a bunch of us who hung around when we first came here [Piney Point], but out of everyone, only Ron and I have remained in touch," he said. As trainees, Bartley noted that they "played pool, softball, went bowling and studied together." After graduation from the trainee program in August of 1981, both of the new SIU members sailed aboard different Energy Transportation Co. vessels which transport liquified natural gas between Indonesia and Japan. However, it was not until 1987 that the two friends were reunited. "I was sailing on the LNG Leo and Al was on the UVG Capricorn," noted Aubuchon. "We met up when the two ships docked and played softball against one another. It was like no time had passed. He was still the same," Aubuchon recalled. The pair worked out their schedules and Ron Aubuchon together returned to e e e! Piney Point in 1993 to upgrade their culinary skills. Aubuchon was upgrading to chief steward while Al Bartley Bartley was completing the chief cook course. The two Seafarers again returned to the Paul Hall Center this winter. Aubuchon graduated from the recertified steward course in March, while Bartley will complete the chief steward class this month. Together, Aubuchon and Bartley have seen the museums, monuments and historical landmarks of Washington, D.C. and the surrounding areas of Piney Point. "Each time we come to Piney Point we try to do or see something different," noted Bartley. 'This is our meeting place. We have seen a lot of changes here in our lives as well as within the gates of the school," said Aubuchon. ..We'll always be friends. We get along so well, just like we have from the beginning," said Bartley. �APRIL 1995 SEAFARERS LOG 7 Concerns Resolved On Independence In response to concerns raised by Seafarers working aboard the SS Independence, the cruise ship based in Hawaii, the union met with the ship's operating company's representatives and saw to it that a program was launched to rectify all problem areas. The troubles aboard the 682foot Independence stem from a three-month stint in a shipyard. After the vessel left the Newport News (Va.) Shipbuilding yard last October, Seafarers became concerned with the living and working conditions for crewmembers aboard the ship, which is operated by American Hawaii Cruises (AHC). Shortly after the renovation work was done, the areas of the Independence for passengers were in good shape but concerns with crew accommodations, crew messhalls, necessary work gear and the organization of work designed by new managers remained in flux. In December, SIU Executive Vice President Joseph Sacco boarded the Independence to meet with crewmembers and determine what action was needed to immediately rectify the problems. Joining _Sacco were SIU Vice President Contracts Augustin Tellez, SIU Vice President West Coast George McCartney and SIU Honolulu Safety Director Tracy "Dino" Ornellas. After holding around-the- / ' " SIU .Executive Vice President Joseph Sacco, Vice President Contracts Augustin Tellez and Vice President West Coast George McCartney meet with Seafarers who work in passenger-oriented services aboard the Independence just before a lifeboat drill. SIU Seeks Action On Court Order to Refund Z-Card Fees The SIU has asked the U.S. Coast Guard to obey a federal judge's order and stop charging mariners and boatmen for background checks when they apply for merchant mariner's documents (z-cards). The $17 cost for the background check was included in the overall fees charged by the Coast Guard for z-cards and licenses beginning on April 19, 1993. The Sill, along with other maritime unions and five individual merchant mariners, had filed a lawsuit on April 15, 1993 seeking to prohibit the implementation of all such fees. In a letter dated March 14, the union, in behalf of itself and the other plaintiffs, reminded Rear Admiral John B. Shkor, the Coast Guard's chief counsel, that the $17 charged for each background check had been declared illegal by U.S. District Court Judge Louis F. Oberdorfer in his decision of November 23, 1994. Judge Oberdorfer agreed with the plaintiffs' contention that background checks conducted by the FBI are for "primarily maritime safety" and are not for the benefit of the mariners. (Besides the SIU, others serving as plaintiffs in the case are the District 4-National Maritime Union/MEBA, District No. 1Marine Engineers' Beneficial Association, American Maritime Officers, International Association of Masters, Mates and Pilots, Sailors' Union of the Pacific, Marine Firemen's Union and five individual mariners.) The judge went on to say that the background checks do "not confer a private benefit on the plaintiffs"; therefore he determined the Coast Guard was not authorized to charge for the FBI checks. Update on Calculations In the same decision, Judge Oberdorfer ordered the Coast Guard to recalculate all fees, which range from $35 for the issuance of an entry level z-card to $250 for an upper-level license. Because the agency has not announced if it has already begun this effort, the SIU and other plaintiffs are seeking in the letter to Rear Admiral Shkor an update on the process. The letter notes, "The Coast Guard is obligated to comply with Judge Oberdorfer's order by taking the steps described above even though appeals are pending in this case." On January 19, the Coast Guard filed an appeal with the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit challenging Judge Oberdorfer' s rulings. No date for a hearing has been set. Prohibitions Lifted The Coast Guard began charging user fees for z-cards and licenses following passage of the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1990 by Congress and its signing by President Bush. The bill was designed as a way to cut the federal deficit. In the act, Congress lifted a longstanding ban that prohibited the implementation of fees for merchant mariner's documents and licenses. The Coast Guard issued its proposed regulations to institute the user fees in 1991, allowing for a comments period. The SIU submitted a series of strong protests against the fees. On March 19, 1993, the federal agency announced its intention to begin collecting the fees on z-cards and licenses starting April 19, 1993. The SIU, along with the other plaintiffs, filed its suit to stop the action on April 15, 1993. Besides ruling against the Coast Guard on collecting fees for background checks and calling on theagencytorecalculateitscoststo issue the documents and licenses, Judge Oberdorfer also denied the union's contention that the user fees overall are illegal because they constitute a work tax. The judge backed the government's case that mariners benefit from being documented and licensed. The SIU has challenged this ruling and filed an appeal in the U.S. Court of Appeals on January 20. clock meetings with crewmemhers in all of the ship's departments, the SIU contacted the company to begin discussing the Seafarers' concerns. Working cooperatively, the problems have been addressed. Meanwhile, SIU Assistant Vice President Bob Hall is coordinating a program to ensure that Seafarers aboard the two "Great White Ships," as the Independence and her sister ship, the SS Constitution, are called, have daily access to union officials so that any situations that arise can be handled immediately. Working with Hall is SIU Representative Sal Aquia. The Independence was built in 1951 atBethlehemSteelinQuincy, Mass. In July 1994, the vessel went into the shipyard for renovation work, which is now the subject of a lawsuit between AHC and Newport News Shipbuilding. The Independence and Constitution provide cruise ship service around the Hawaiian islands of Hawaii, Kahai, Maui and Oahu. AHC is a subsidiary of American Classic Voyages, headquartered in Chicago. That company bought AHC in 1993 and last year placed many new managers in the Hawaii cruiseship operation. American Classic Voyages also is the parent company of SIU-contracted Delta Queen Steamboat Co. Clinton Order Forbids Use of Strike Scabs By Gov'I Contractors President Clinton on March 8 signed an executive order which forbids federal agencies from doing business with companies that use so-called permanent replacements for striking workers. The order "sets a strong moral tone for labor-management cooperation and for dignity for those who work," said AFL-CIO President Lane Kirkland. "It places the moral authority and market power of the federal government against employers who resort to the discredited practice of permanently replacing workers with scabs." If it stands, the president's action means that companies doing more than $100,000 in business per year with the federal government could have their contracts voided or declared ineligible for renewal if they tried to break a strike by hiring scabs to replace workers who are engaged in a lawful strike. A week after Clinton signed the order, Senate Republicans narrowly fell short of passing legislation to overturn it. Senate GOP members said they will try again. Senator Edward M. Kennedy (D-Mass.) said the Republicans' attempts to override the executive order are reflective of a declaration of "war on working families" by the majority party. President Clinton has vowed to veto any measure that scuttles the order, but a two-thirds majority in Congress would be enough to repeal it. (It takes 67 votes in the Senate and 290 votes in the House to override a veto.) With that in mind, SIU members are encouraged to contact their congressional representatives and urge them to support the executive order banning firms that do business with the government from using permanent replacements. Strikes Are Rare Kirkland, the head of the national federation of trade unions, pointed out that the order only will affect the worst segment of the employer community, since approximately 99 percent of unionized companies with federal contracts reach collective bargaining agreements without striking. "This order sends a message to all Americans that quality products cannot be turned out by employers who make war on their employees," he added. Last year, the House passed legislation banning the use of permanent replacements for strikers. Despite majority support in the Senate, a Republican-led filibuster killed the bill. In a role reversal, last month it was Senate Democrats who successfully led a filibuster against an amendment to overturn President Clinton's executive order. The amendment garnered 58 votes, two shy of the number needed to stop a filibuster. The AFL-CIO reported that hundreds of state labor federations, central labor councils and local unions contacted senators whose votes were needed to perpetuate the order. �II l B SEAFARERS LOG APRIL 1995 Seafarers Break Out New ITB Penn Maritime Adding 2 Tug/Barges to Its Fleet Seafarers are sailing aboard the first of two new integrated tugbarges (ITBs) scheduled to join the Penn Maritime fleet this year. On March 3, the tug Eliza and barge Atlantic departed from a Mobile, Ala. shipyard where they were built to begin transporting petroleum products along the eastern coast of the U.S. "I'm ready to get underway," Tankerman Jim Boyce told Mobile Patrolman Ed Kelly, who met with the crew shortly before the ITB set sail. "We've worked hard to prepare for this maiden voyage," noted the second generation Seafarer who, with several others, had been aboard the ITB for several weeks to oversee construction. "Everything looks pretty good," Barge Captain Ernest Larsen added. An SIU boatman since 1965, Larsen will make a couple trips on the new ITB as a tankerman before returning to Mobile to guide construction on the Atlantic's sister barge, the Caribbean. The barge and tug Lucia are due out of the yard in June. Largest in Fleet The Eliza and Atlantic are the largest ITB in the Staten Island, N.Y.-based fleet. Penn Maritime already operates five tugboats and seven barges to move jet fuel, gasoline and other petroleum products. Joining the chorus of praise for the new vessel was William Lee Mathews Sr. The tankerman called the ITB "beautiful." He also spoke highly of the way both the tug and barge were built for safety, including the double-hull construction and emergency cabin on the barge. Sweeney, vice president for operations. The cabin, which holds two bunks and a desk, can be used by tankermen to oversee loading or unloading on the barge while working with Coast Guard officials or port personnel. The cabin also provides on-duty tankermen with short-term shelter should bad weather catch them off guard. Sweeney said the company's recent growth and projected operations allowed Penn Maritime to build the new tugs and barges. The new vessels are designed so the company can meet the stringent laws or regulations affecting the industry. . New Emergency Cabm The emergency cabin is a feature Penn Maritime is employing on its newer barges, noted Jim Clarke 'Drops Anchor' After 42 Years at Sea Tankerman William Lee Mathews Splicing a line aboard the new Releasing pressure from a valve Sr. greases flow valves. barge is Tankerman Jim Boyce. is Tankerman Ernest Larsen. Alton Belle Crewmembers Praised For Speedy River Rescue Attempt SIU members aboard the Alton Belle II riverboat recently were praised by local police and fire department officials in Alton, Ill. for their attempted rescue of a man who committed suicide by jumping off a bridge into the frigid Mississippi River, 70 feet below. Deckhands Brian Bollinger and Bill Jackson manned the Alton Belle's 16-foot rescue skiff and retrieved the body of local resident Dennis K. Rader, 4 7, within 10 minutes after Rader had jumped from the Clark Bridge on January 18. The Alton Belle was approximately 2 miles from the bridge when the Alton Police Department contacted the vessel and requested assistance. "We were asked to launch a rescue boat in an attempt to save the victim," Bollinger noted in a On the night of John M. Clarke's final voyage before retiring, his crewmates aboard the Overseas Valdez threw him a party he will not soon forget. Clarke, who sails as a steward assistant, was presented with an engraved wall clock, some sports t-shirts and a card signed by all the crewmembers. According to Clarke, the wall clock "was the best gift of my life," one which he says he will treasure forever. In a letter to the Sea/are rs LOG, sent with the photographs that accompany this article, Clarke stated that all the friends he made while sailing are very important to him and he will never forget them. The steward department member has been shipping with the Seafarers for 42 years, during which time he worked on all kinds of ships and called on ports all over the world. "My favorite runs were to North Europe and South America," he reminisced. For the past five years, Clarke has sailed primarily aboard Maritime Overseas ships. Brother Clarke said he has decided "to drop the anchor and relax." He hopes to enjoy his letter to the Seafarers LOG. "Captain John Mosele immediately ordered the ship's crew to launch the rescue boat, and we were quickly under way." The water temperature was in the low thirties, and the river's current pulled Rader' s body 300 yards down river. "The victim was face down and barely breaking the surface when we got to him, and he wasn't breathing," Jackson told a reporter from the LOG. "Falling 70 feet, he probably inhaled a gallon of river water. "But we put a lifejacket on him and transported him to shore." Alton firefighters then tried to revive the man- who left a suicide note in his car, which was parked on the bridge - before he was transported to Alton Memorial Hospital. There, Rader was pronounced dead. Although Rader's Jife could not be saved, crewmembers from the Alton Belle were commended for their quick response to the crisis. "They immediately put the rescue boat in the water, and that's not the first time they've helped us," Alton Police Lt. James Hesse] told The Telegraph, an Alton newspaper. "They've helped us every time we've asked." Fire Chief John Sowders said the Alton Belle personnel "did a great job. We really appreciate their efforts." Mosele, in addition to complimenting the crew's performance, noted that they practice man-overboard drills every week. The constant training is evident in how quickly the rescue attempt was executed, he said. Retiree John M. Clarke proudly displays the engraved wall clock he received from officers and crew on the Overseas Valdez. retirement years by continuing to travel-this time "around the country instead of on the seven seas." The Overseas Valdez carries different grades of gas, diesel and f jet fuel. The vessel usually loads ~ in Lake Charles, La. or Corpus ........_ ...Mt Christi, Texas and discharges its cargo in Tampa, Fla., with an oc- Complimented for their swift response to an Alton, Ill. Police Department request for assistance are (from left) Deckhand Bill Jackson, Captain John Mosele and Deckhand Brian Bollinger of the Alton Belle II. casional stopover in Boston. �SEAFARERS LOG APRIL 1995 9 Seafarers Give Top Marks to Tanker Safety Course Seafarers who on March 24 completed the new tanker operation/safety course at the Paul Hall Center's Lunde berg School in Piney Point, Md., said the class is a vital tool in ensuring that SIUcontracted tankers are operated at optimum safety levels. "I think it's imperative that we have this education about tankers," stated QMED Carmine Barbati, one of 30 students in the most recent class. ''Tanker companies have so much liability .... We don't want to see the industry go down the tubes. This course teaches people about the hazards that exist and how to avoid them." Others who took the fourweek course said its content is extremely useful for all Seafarers. "The class provides good training for people of all skill levels," said Recertified Bosun John Thompson, a 19-year SIU member who often sails on vessels that transport liquified natural gas (LNG). "The course content is very pertinent to the job skills that are in demand of the unlicensed mariner today. Personally, I have a tankennan's endorsement and have sailed on many tankers, but there still are new trends in the industry that I wasn't aware of" prior to taking the tanker operation/safety course. The curriculum was developed by the Lundeberg School, in consultation with SIU officials and representatives of SIU-contracted tanker companies, in response to regulations stemming from the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (OPA '90). The class is required of all SIU members who sail on tankers and is open to all Seafarers. Establishment of the course, which includes handson training and classroom ins tru c ti on, was agreed upon during contract negotiations between the union and tanker operators. Flammability Traits Barbati, Thompson and their classmates reported the curriculum is abundant. They took part in practical training for confined-space safety and oil spill/hazmat prevention and recovery. They also studied tanker construction and general tanker safety, reviewed sections of OPA '90 and learned about the chemical and physical properties of petroleum products. Learning about the hazards that exist aboard tankers and how to avoid them is one objective of the Lundeberg School's tanker safety course. Completing the class on March 24 are (from left, kneeling) Michael Ingram, Hernando Bansuelo, Van Jones, John Cincotta, George Montgomery, Christopher Kavanagh, (second row) John Day, Mark Dumas, Jeffrey Sousa, Desiree Crockett, Carmine Barbati, Robert Bell, Charles Herrera, Jake Karaczynski (instructor), Miles Copeland, Jorge Ellis, Robert Oppel, Carmine Bova, Peter Hove and Roy Payne. In addition, the upgraders examined the flammability traits, toxicity/asphyxiation characteristics and health hazards associated with exposure to petroleum products. Other segments of the course covered monitoring tanks for oxygen deficiency and taking other meter readings with atmospheric monitoring equipment; creating shipboard safety plans; fit-tests using respirators and other equipment; and an introduction to fire chemistry, firefighting and fire/emergency duties. Oil-removal contingency plans, use of federal information guides designed to aid mariners, and rules for protecting the marine environment were among other subjects studied by the up graders. "The course exceeded my expectations," said Recertified Bosun Carmine Bova, who joined the union 24 years ago. "There was a lot of new information presented, especially about oil pollution, loading and discharging . . . . The (review of) safety rules for people on deck and everyone involved in cargo operations also was excellent." Members of the class also met with SIU President Michael Sacco and Executive Vice President Joseph Sacco, who brought the upgraders up-to-date on the union's current activities. "That was excellent," said AB Chris Kavanagh. "Union education really reminds everybody of our duties and responsibilities." Kavanagh also said he benefitted from learning how to use the Chemical Data Guide for Bulk Shipment by Water and the Emergency Response Guidebook, which are published by the Department of Transportation. "And I appreciated the explanation of why certain procedures must be followed on tankers," he noted. Chemical Exposure Kavanagh added that there was "a broad scale of people in the class. Some have never sailed on a tariker, others have sailed them for 10 years. So there was a good exchange of knowledge amongst the students." Learning about personal protection from hazardous materials was a course highlight for QMED/Pumpman George Montgomery, who most recently sailed aboard the Overseas Alaska. "Some of those chemicals can have a long-term effect, so it's important to know which safety equipment to wear and how to use it," he said. Montgomery (and others) also praised the four instructors who taught various sections of the course. "They were excellent," he said. AB Jeff Sousa headed for During last month's class, students practice donning protective equipment-the same kind they would use in a real shipboard emergency. Piney Point after recently signing off the LNG Libra. He said the course was "very detailed. The class teaches all aspects of protection from chemicals, operations that go on with different pumps, what to do in case of an emergency .... It just gives you a thorough know ledge of tankers." Student Feedback Although an initial course curriculum is established, Lundeberg School instructors actively are soliciting feedback from upgraders so that improvements may be made. Besides critiquing the course, students are given a questionnaire to use aboard tankers in order to rate the effectiveness and applicability of various course content. ''The input from the students has been terrific, and SIU-contracted companies also will review the course," said instructor Ben Cusic. "We need the feedback from the students, because they're the ones who do the Oil spill containment drills are part of the tanker safety/operation course. In photo above, upgraders from job." the most recent class string a boom over the water to help contain a simulated oil spill. Barbati, who graduated from the school io 1987, summed up the course when he said, "This class teaches and reminds us of the right way to do things. There can't be any guesswork aboard a ship. You have to know the law." Instructors Ask for Seafarers' Help In order to assist in keeping the Paul Hall Center's tanker operation/safety course as upto-date as possible, Lundeberg School instructors are requesting the assistance of Seafarers who sail on tankers. The instructors ask that, when possible, SIU members photograph and/or videotape the equipment with which they work, along with any other relevant operations. Seafarers then are requested to forward the photos and/or tapes to: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, Attn: Ben Cusic, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, Md 20674. "This will greatly help us keep the class as current as possible," said instructor Ben Cusic. �10 SEAFARERS LOG APRIL 1995 Shortage ol Seamen Exposes Need lor American Mariners, Says MarAd Chief Aboard the Sea-Land Performance, Seafarers meet with SIU President Michael Sacco and SIU Executive VP Joseph Sacco last month in Elizabeth, N.J. to discuss the union's challenge of Sea-Land's maneuver to reflag five of its containerships to foreign registries. Pictured from left are AB Tan Ah Joan, SA H. Ali, DEU F. Ghaleb, Steward Gary Griswold, QMED Bobby Spencer, Michael Sacco, Bosun Richard Moss, Electrician Robert Torgeresen, Joseph Sacco and AB Jose Ross. Seafarers Attack Sea-Land1s Reflagging Move Continued from page 3 tional interest. "Transferring these vessels to a foreign ship registry . . . exports American seamen's jobs and inevitably diminishes the pool of skilled American maritime personnel available to crew commercial, sealift and Ready Reserve Force vessels in times of national emergency," the SIU said. Granted Prematurely The union also insisted that "MarAd was premature in granting approval to Sea-Land for the transfer of five vessels to Marshall Islands registry because the Clinton administration has included funding for a U.S. maritime revitalization program in its fiscal year 1996 budget." The SIU pointed out that a promaritime bill last year was overwhelmingly approved by the House and had majority support in the Senate. But a last-minute procedural gimmick by a few farm-state senators prevented the Senate from voting on the bill. This "should not be construed as a lessening of support for the U.S.-flag merchant marine," the SIU said in its objection. In fact, the union noted all indications show that bipartisan support for a U.S. shipping program remains constant, "and the 104th Congress is likely to take up the call for a revitalized American maritime industry. The union sincerely hopes that MarAd's precipitancy in approving Sea-Land's reflagging peti- House Considers Maritime Bill Continued from page 3 Panel, Bateman noted "how critical it is to our national security that we have a merchant marine, that we have a pool of maritime sailors who are prepared to meet the nation's need for the future. "This is a maritime nation and we have no power unless we remain a maritime power. It is a national security concern and we must be and remain very sensitive to it," the chairman said. His view was shared by others on the panel. Representative Neil Abercrombie CD-Hawaii) added, "I believe that an active commercial merchant marine fleet is in the national security interest of the United States." He ~h~n direct~d. his remarks to Mantime Admm!sti:ator Herberger, who was testifymg on behalf of the MarAd budget pro,?osal. . . After all 1s said and done, is~ 't. i_t a? question ~f deciding pno~bes . I_s not the ISsue under cons1derat10n here _today the equal of any other issue under · ' ?" Ab erde f ense appropnat10n. tion does not cast an irrevocable shadow on this support." Request for Hearings As its final point, the SIU reminded MarAd that U.S. seafaring labor organizations in mid1993 requeste.d hearings about the reflagging issue "so that all interested parties would have an opportunity to be heard and a record made on which the agency would base its decisions on this matter." Since the request was not granted, the SIU noted that MarAd' s reflagging rulings "may have been rendered without corroborative and supportive evidence." The union then made another petition to MarAd to conduct such hearings. crombie asked the head of MarAd. After Herberger agreed with the representative's questions, he went on to say, "The need to retain a viable maritime industry is critical to the country. you need a fleet in being, you're going to need a trained force in being, you're going to need to use the system that is out there in the commercial business every day. That is the most cost-effective way to be able to go quickly to support the huge combatant force." Senate consideration of the maritime revitalization program is expected to begin later this spring. Seafarers can put their purchasing dollars to work for themselves and their fellow trade unionists. That is because within the family of unions which make up the Seafarers International Union of North America (to which the Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District belongs), there are workers who produce a wide variety of goods and services. When Seafarers buy those products, they not only are getting the best-made American goods, they also are supporting union workers. The United Industrial Workers (UIW) is one of the autonomous affiliates of the SIUNA. Beginning with this issue, the Seafarers LOG regular1y will highlight various union-made products and services. Company: La Victoria UIW members at La Victoria: Produce, pack, label and inspect the products; also do warehouse work Facilities: Production plant in Rosemead, Calif.; 9 distribution centers throughout U.S. Products: Hot, mild and medium salsas; red and green taco sauces; marinated jalepenos and more Distribution: Nationwide That's a fact: La Victoria features the UIW logo on its labels The question of safety aboard timony below.) He noted that the foreign-flag ships with foreign schools for seamen operated by crews entering U.S. harbors was maritime unions and the federal raised by members of the House and state governments ensure that Merchant Marine Oversight Americans are the most qualified Panel during a March 28 hearing seamen in the world. on the Maritime Administration The chairman of the panel, (MarAd) budget. U.S. Representative Herbert H. Maritime Administrator Al- Bateman (R-Va.), asked Herbert Herberger brought the sub- berger to repeat the figure on how jecttothepanel'sattentionduring many licensed seamen were his testimony on the need for needed because he thought he training and educational funds for may have misunderstood it. maritime academies when he Herberger verified the 200,000 mentioned that the world present- number, then added the IMO ly faces a shortage of 200,000 predicts the "shortage could be as licensed mariners. He based the high as 400,000" by the year 2000. figure on a report by the Intema"This is not the time to be tional Maritime Organization looking at closing down or reduc(IMO), which was created by the ing the impact of our particular United Nations to develop inter- educational base," Herberger national standards, promote ship- noted. "We do have the best ping safety and prevent marine mariners in the world." pollution. Representative Neil AberFor part of the hearing, crombie (D-Hawaii) expressed Herberger' s remarks turned the concern that foreign crews who panel's attention to looking at the are not up to American standards need for qualified seafarers in the for safety and training are enterworld's shipping trades. (See tes- ing U.S. ports. ..---------------------------., Testimony from March 28 Hearing During the March 28 House Merchant Marine Oversight Panel hearing on the Maritime Administration budget, members of the panel became intrigued when Maritime Administrator Albert Herberger testified that the wortd faces a shortage of 200,000 licensed mariners. He stated now is not the time for the U.S. government to reduce or eliminate its support for maritime training programs. What follows is the transcript from the hearing that addressed maritime personnel, training and safety: Maritime Administrator Albert Herberger: "To ensure a pool of trained citizen mariners, Kings Point and the state maritime academies graduate the finest, best educated [mariners] and provide the safest and most efficient operation in the marine industry. We must maintain a base of highly skilled seafarers if we are going to be prepared to maintain a capability, not only in the government fleet which is getting larger year by year, but also the commercial fleet. "At a time when the world at large is concerned with the quality of mariners in general, when there has been a series-almost a continual series--0f marin_e accidents wherein in the investigation it has come back to the human factor, this is not the time to be looking at closing down or reducing the impact of our particular educational base. This applies not only to Kings Point and the state academies, but also to the very fine facilities that the maritime unions-the labor unions-provide. We do have the best mariners in the world. "Today, there is a shortage of 200,000 licensed mariners worldwide. There are predictions by IMO studies that there will be a shortage of 400,000 by the year 2000. This is not the time to be taking actions to reduce the capability that we have when we are on the point, if you will, to ensure that the rest of the world are coming up to the high standards of our shipping operations. 'We have a very serious obligation, I think, to ensure that we maintain this capability." U.S. Representative Herbert H. Bateman: "I want you to repeat, in case I misunderstood, that data that you shared with us. Did I hear a 200,000 requirement in terms of the international maritime community?" Herberger: "Today there is a shortage of 200-;ooo licensed mariners. The prediction because of the training rate - the worldwide training rate - that that shortage could be as high as 400,000. They would have to triple the current worldwide training rate to provide the sufficient mariners. "The concern is that in recent years there's been a source of sailors coming in mostly from the underdeveloped areas that are not fully trained and as well educated and there has been a series of maritime disasters. The survey or study that's completed comes back to the human element. We're losing in terms of the wortdwide capability of mariners. "The United States for so many years, since the mid '30s, when so much of our maritime training support started, is primarily driven by the fact that there was this critical shortage of highly qualified people. The Merchant Marine Act of '36, that was the centerpiece. The Morro Castle disaster, there were other maritime incidents. "We're having the same type of phenomena now worldwide. Just as serious. What are becoming catastrophic because of the size of the vessels, the impact it has on the environment as well as human lives. There's something like 300 mariners that have been lost at sea in the last five years. In this day and age, that's unconscionable. But it's due to the low quality. "The United States has been in the lead [for safety]. We've been at all the IMO conferences driving the standards up. And now would not be the time to give up being a flag nation, and just become a port nation." U.S. Representative Neil Abercrombie: "I just want to make sure I understand. So, in other words, what we're facing right now is increasing competition from foreign sources with increasingly unqualified people on the sh!PS !r<;>m !hose foreign sources, as compared to the standards we are now mamtammg 1n the United States, is that correct?" Herberger: "Ninety-five percent of our commerce comes into the United States ports in foreign vessels. There's a significant percent of foreign vessels worldwide that are considered substandard. And there is a lot of activity in recent years to begin to take action. The International Maritime Organization, our Coast Guard and others are beginning to take significant action to try to weed out the sub~tandard vessels. I'm not saying that all of the foreign vessels that come in Abercrombie: "You're speaking about the crews." Herberger: "I'm talking about the crews, that's right. When we look at the series of maritime disasters in recent years worldwide, you'll find that 85 percent of the cases are not mechanical failures, it's human error." �APRIL 1995 SEAFARERS LOG 11 Day Trips: Part of the Fun of a Piney Point Vacation SEAFARERS AND THEIR FAMILIES once again have the opportunity to spend a best-ofboth-worlds vacation at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Located in peaceful, picturesque southern Maryland, the Paul Hall Center offers a remarkable array of leisure-time options. Quiet relaxation, athletic activities, rustic jaunts and the excitement of a metropolis all can be part of a vacation at Piney Point. Additionally, bargain rates for lodging and meals at the Paul Hall Center are available for SIU members and their families. The facility is situated on more than 60 acres of waterfront property on the banks of the St. George's Creek. Within the Paul Hall Center's meticulously landscaped grounds are comfortable hotel rooms; relaxing dining facilities; a picnic area; athletic facilities including tennis courts, an Olympic-size outdoor swimming pool, a modem health spa and more. Another part of the attraction to Piney Point is the myriad of exciting places located within a short driving distance from the Paul Hall Center. Washington, Baltimore, Alexandria, Va., Annapolis, Md. and historic areas in southern Maryland all are easily accessible from the Paul Hall Center. ~ WASHINGTON, D.C. NATION'S CAPITAL: Not to be missed is the nation's capital, one of the world's major tourist attractions. A drive from Piney Point to Washington typically lasts no longer than two hours, but the entertaining and educational sights in D.C. seem limitless. The Jefferson and Lincoln memorials and the Washington Monument provide educational opportunities for children and adults alike. The Capitol, White House and Supreme Court offer daily tours which detail both their past and present uses. Also popular are tours of FBI headquarters and the U.S. Treasury's printing facility. The famed Smithsonian Institution offers hundreds of exhibits, and among its museums are the National Air and Space Museum, the Museum of Natural History and the Museum of American History. Other attractions and activities in Washington include: The Washington National Zoo, where hundreds of rare animals live in natural-habitat compounds. The Kennedy Center and other theaters which host live stage performances. Specialized libraries where one may research any number of topics. Concert arenas which boast some of the world's most popular musicians. Plenty of restaurant options, from formal dining establishments to neighborhood cafes. Washington also is the site of dozens of special events each summer. The 1995 calendar includes Filmfest D.C., the D.C. World Jazz Festival, the Parade of the Americas and much more. ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES: These are just some of the sites and activities available in Washington ... and they are only a fraction of what Seafarers and their families can see and do while vacationing at the Paul Hall Center! Other possibilities will be detailed in upcoming issues of the Seafarers LOG. It is not too soon for SIU members to fill out the registration form on this page to reserve a place at Piney Point. Doing so is the first step toward what is certain to be a memorable family vacation. SEAFARERS TRAINING & RECREATION CENTER Vacation Reservation Information UNION MEMBER VACATION RATES A vacation stay at the Lundeberg School is limited to two weeks per family. Member $40.40/day Spouse $ 9.45/day Child $ 9.45/day Note: There is no charge for children 11 years of age or younger. The prices listed Name: ~-------------------------------Social Security number: _____________ Book number: _ _ _ __ Address: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ above include all meals. Telephone n u m b e r : - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Number in party I ages of children, if applicable: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Date of arrival: 1st choice:. _ __ 2nd choice: _ __ 3rd choice: _ __ (Stay Is limited to two weeks) Date of departure: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Send this completed application to the Seafarers Training & Recreation Center, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674. - - ~9:..i �12 APRIL 1995 SEAFARERS LOG Runaways Foster P Cyprus-Registered Aghia Markel/a Most runaway ships switch names several times, a tactic useful for evading legal problems. So many cockroaches that they drop out of the overheads, living conditions so poor that crewmembers sleep two to a bed and have no toilets or heat, navigation equipment so defective there is no working radar or gyrocompass, engines so worn :he manufacturer cannot believe they are still running, seamen who cannot splice or identify a wrench and a classification society certificate issued six months ago that all was well with the ship. These are the conditions on board the Aghia Markella, a runaway-flag ship detained last November by the Canadian Coast Guard and inspected by SIU of Canada Representative Jim Given. The runaway-flag ship registry has been a device used by North American, European and Japanese shipowners in the last 40 years to duck the rigorous conditions called for by the governments and seamen's unions of their own nations. The end result of runaway shipping is evidenced by the state of the Aghia Markella, which spent a month in Port Alfred, Quebec during which time Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) authorities forced the shipowner, Lombard Shipping, to make essential repairs. Hide Behind Layers Runaway-flag shipowners, like the one associated with the Aghia Markella, seek to bypass the stringent safety and environmental regimes, tax obligations and higher seamen's wages of their own countries by registering their ships in nations that operate a vessel registry as a source of much-needed revenues. Among the countries operating such socalled flag-of-convenience registries are Panama, Liberia, Vanuatu, Bahamas, Marshall Islands, Cyprus and Malta. Runaway shipowners also use a series of services from various parts of the globe to make it more difficult to assert legal actions against their vessels. For example, the Cyprus-flag Aghia Markella is owned by an Athens, Greece-based company. It is crewed by four Greek officers. The remaining crewmembers are Filipino. The company's classification soci Kaiji Kyokai (N based firm. The bulk cargoes all o Relentless Pursui The Aghia Ma rying its bulk car Jamaican bauxite, Lawrence River o when the boardi covered the dilap the vessel and its 1 gear. He contacte In turn the C Guard solicited th Given, an inspecti national Trans Federation (ITF) which the worl unions belong, h chase runawayfrom the seas and, upgrade the subs tions of such vess Bare Bones Given said th tors were stunned tion of the vesse extent of the corr that the vessel had tained. Engineroom The ship's main exhaust is patched together with the shell of an The emergency fire dampers at the top of the oil drum. The mending does not work and exhaust pours into engineroom are so debased that the safety the engineroom and crew quarters. system is rendered useless. The deck of the 13-year-old Cyprus-flag ship is corroded beyond recognition. J The cylinder in the piston is measured by Canadian authorities and the ship's classification society representative to determine wear to the engine. They find it severely worn from its original condition. Forepeak aft, full oil drums are stowed in an area not designated for storage of hazardous materials. Not only is there no way to contain a fire in this area but also the barrels are blocking exits. The crew attempte of Canada Repres1 would have gone c ,- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- �r SEAFARERS LOG APRIL 1995 arilous Conditions ?pitomizes Substandard Shipping :ty is Nippon K), a Tokyovessel carries er the world. of Runaways 'f(ella was caro, in this case up the Saint t November 4, ng pilot disdated state of .c k of working theCCG. .n adian Coast ~ assistance of r for the Interort Workers The ITF, to l's seamen's a campaign to lag shipping :hort of that, to andard condils. Canadian or a U.S. shipowner would operate a vessel. The maintenance would get done underway. This shipping company seemed to have the philosophy of doing as little as possible-just keep the ship floating," surmised Given. In the engineroom, Given and the CCG representatives found equipment had been damaged from fires. The main engine cylinders were found to have such extensive wear that the equipment's manufacturer later told the CCG he was surprised they were running. Given said the main engine exhaust had a crack that the crew had attempted to repair by cutting a 45-gallon drum in half and using it to patch the break. The juryrigging did not work, and carbon monoxide exhaust billowed into the engineroom and crew quarters, Given learned. tintenance CCG inspecIntolerable Living Conditions by the condiOn deck, the Given also inspected the 1sion indicated crew's quarters and talked with riot been main- the Filipino seamen aboard. He tot the way a learned that the crewmembers slept in "hot beds." While the crewmembers worked 12-hour shifts, a single bed would be available to one crewmember for half the day and to another for the other 12 hours. None of the fo'c's'les had toilets, Given observed. The only toilet aboard the ship was on the captain's deck. The seamen simply defecated in pails and tossed the contents overboard. They urinated over the side of the ship, Given said. The drinking water on the ship was contaminated and stores consisted of rice, potatoes and bread. "There was barely any food aboard," reported Given. "It was very rare for the crew to get any fresh vegetables, or even canned vegetables." What little stores were available were infested with cockroaches, Given said. The insects were everywhere--even the captain's deck was teeming with roaches. Inspecting the medical supplies, Given found the medicines' expiration dates had long since passed. "The medical supplies were so old that they probably would have killed whoever used accommodation also used a hot plate in the room. Given observed that seamen ran extension cords willy-nilly throughout the house making it impossible to seal watertight doors and fire doors. Drums of petroleum products and other materials were stored in rooms not certified for such use because Seamen Ill-Prepared they were without independent fire-extinguishing systems. AdIn addition to talking to the ditionally, the materials were crew about their conditions, stowed in such a way as to block Given witnessed a number of in- exits. cidents which testified to the ine x p e ri enc e of the seamen Crew Exploited working aboard the Aghia The ill-prepared seamen were Markel/a. He noted that broken ropes were knotted, rather than supplied to the ship's managespliced. Likewise, wire rope was ment company by a maiming not spliced but shackled. "What a agency in the Philippines. The hazard," Given commented. crewmembers told Given thatthe "The way they had repaired the manning agent had the seamen rope there were too many weak sign blank contracts before leavlinks. It makes for a very ing for the ship, where their tour dangerous situation if that rope of duty would be 12 months. It was not until a seaman was at sea snaps under pressure." Given also heard a CCG in- on the Aghia Markel/a that he spector ask one of the engine learned what he would be paid. department crewmembers to The salaries of the crew were bring a certain wrench. The below the ILO minimum wage seaman returned with the entire for seamen, Given discovered. toolbox because he could not dis- But the Filipino crew had not protested the violation because tinguish the requested tool. The crew had very little safety they were intimidated by the training. The way they were presence of five relatives of the living proved this, reported manning agent who were aboard Given. The messman smoked in the vessel as the radio operator his fo'c's'le where barrels con- and junior officers. Givenmovedtorectifytheiltaining oil were stored. An AB who kept paint and lumber in his legal pay. As a result of his interthem rather than making them better." The crew was not equipped for a Canadian winter. Not only did the seamen have no cold weather clothing, but the heat on the ship did not work. And the only space heater aboard was in the captain's quarters. 13 vention, Lombard Shipping raised the pay of the seamen to the ILO minimum. Originally making $440 per month for a 160-hour month and 120 hours of overtime, the crew's pay was raised to $774 a month. This represented payment for overtime as well as the minimum wage of $356 per month established for the world's seamen by the International Labor Organization (ILO), an agency of the United Nations. Hardly the Worst Given, who sailed for many years on Canadian-flag ships, said that many Canadian and American seamen could not imagine a ship as bad as the Aghia Marke/la. "For a Canadian seaman, going aboard a foreignflag ship like this is a real eyeopener. You just don't see conditions like this on one of our ships. Canadian seamen know how to splice rope. They know their wrenches." But as one Filipino crewmember pointed out to Given, the Aghia Markella is not the most offensive runaway-flag ship sailing on the high seas. "I've been on worse ships," the ship's cook told Given. The Aghia Markella looked like it had been through a war, concluded Given. "But actually it wasn't a war, it was just a shipowner's greed." House and Fo'c's'le The cupboard is bare on this runaway ship. The crew's diet consists of rice, potatoes and bread. The only meat on the ship was so rotten it filled the house with a permeating stench. hide the broken railing by painting over the separation. SIU ·ve Jim Given notes that anyone who leaned against the rail ard. The rec room is a "wrecked room," notes SIU of The messman of the Aghia None of the crewmembers have Canada Rep. Given, who inspected the Aghia Markel/a, a smoker, shares his toilets in their rooms. Seamen use a Markel/a as an ITF representative. room with gallons of oil. pail to collect their waste. - �14 SEAFARERS LOB APRIL 1995 Following their annual physicals, Gateman Jeff Johnson (left) and Wiper Mike Nelson fill out the necessary paperwork and prepare to ship out. AB/Watchman Robert Hedine stands at the winch as supplies are brought on board the St. Clair. Mild Weather, Strong Cargo Demand Shorten Winter Layup on Great Lakes Seafarers had to shorten their winter vacations and hustle back to their Great Lakes ships last month for what is anticipated to be a banner sailing season in ·- 1995. The seamen joined their vessels following the brief break between winter layup and the beginning of this year's shipping period. As QMED John Bonifas observed, ''This winter layup was somewhat shorter than we- are used to." AB/Watchman Jim Lawson, During fitout in the port of Duluth, Minn., QMED Ed who sails on the H.L. White, an Elder pumps ballast aboard the St. Clair. American Steamship Company (ASC) carrier, echoed those sentiments and added, "But we're looking forward to going back." The abbreviated break in service, in some cases as few as 30 days, occurred due to mild winter weather conditions and a high demand for the commodities transported by Great Lakes vessels. r I Limited Time/Lots of Work Because of the short time frame between shipping seasons, shipyard employees worked around-the-clock to prepare the Lakes vessels for sailing. Seafarers cleared their union halls and ""y:ri;~~ reported to work aboard their respective Lakers, putting gear in place and preparing the ships for their annual U.S. Coast Guard inspection. The carriers have been prepared QM ED Ali Madan checks the oil in the St. Clair's stem thruster before sailing from the ship's winter port. for a long 19<)5 sailing season, because Great Lakes shipping company executives believe that the high demand for Lakes transportation services will continue unabated into early next year. "I think it will be a great season with a lot of work," said the bosun of the H.L. White, William Mulcahy. "It looks like it will be a good season with work all the way up until next January," echoed Bosun Mark Fraley, who sails aboard the Indiana Harbor, another ASC ship. Fraley added, "We have been really busy getting all the supplies we need on board and preparing for the Coast Guard inspections." Annually, Coast Guard inspectors board each Laker and check to ensure that all safety equipment is in working order. Also, crewmembers must demonstrate proficiency in lifeboat operations and fire fighting. Tip Top Shape In addition to preparing for the government agency's inspection, Seafarers readied the Great Lakes vessels for sailing. "We had a lot to do before sailing," stated Bonifas. On his ship, the Walter J. McCarthy (ASC), Bonifas reported that the repairs were minor, such as fixing water lines and overhauling engines. Continued on page 18 Preparing the galley of the St. Clair for the 1995 sailing season is Porter George Harrison. OS Abdo Fotaih helps with After helping with some painting on chipping and painting on the the St. Clair, OS Mohamed Saadi is Walter J. McCarthy. ready for a new assignment. The opening of the Soo Locks, located in Sault Ste. Marie, Mich., traditionally marks the beginning of the sailing season on the Great lakes. 0 SURNS HARBOR ABs Charles Neighbauer (left) ar1 Thomas Palmer stand ready on deck to help load the St. Clair's first cargo of the season. 0 SANDUSKY GREAT LAKES SIU-crewed Lakers transport iron ore, grain, coal, cement, limestone and gypsum on the five Great Lakes. �SEAFARERS LOG APRIL 1995 Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea FEBRUARY 16 - MARCH 15, 1995 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Port New York Philadelphia Baltimore Norfolk Mobile New Orleans Jacksonville San Francisco Wilmington Seattle Puerto Rico Honolulu Houston St Louis Piney Point Algonac Totals 31 1 3 10 11 15 19 25 11 18 5 2 25 0 1 0 177 38 7 4 15 15 17 16 15 20 18 2 3 2 2 5 1 2 5 5 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C DECK DEPARTMENT 24 3 27 4 3 1 7 0 3 7 9 3 0 11 7 8 26 10 18 21 10 5 11 5 2 1 7 3 17 4 15 5 20 12 14 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 208 43 150 150 18 21 0 2 0 3 2 4 3 4 1 I 9 5 0 0 1 39 Trip Reliefs **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 15 May & June 1995 Membership Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, Inland Waters Piney Point Monday, May 8, June 5 New York 67 10 15 1 8 57 0 0 2 2 4 8 6 17 13 1 2 15 40 9 5 40 25 24 31 28 3 11 3 5 10 0 0 51 35 41 16 43 39 5 39 7 24 37 46 0 1 1 0 0 6 2 59 361 400 2 6 14 Tuesday: May 9, June 6 Philadelphia Wednesday: May 10, June 7 Baltimore Thursday: May 11, June 8 Norfolk Thursday: May 11, June 8 7 Jacksonville 7 3 Thursday: May 11, June 8 8 9 8 0 Friday: May 12, June 9 2 0 101 Algonac Houston Monday: May 15, June 12 New Orleans Tuesday: May 16, June 13 Mobile Wednesday: May 17,June 14 San Francisco Port New York Philadelphia Baltimore Norfolk Mobile New Orleans Jacksonville San Francisco Wilmington Seattle Puerto Rico Honolulu Houston St. Louis Piney Point Algonac Totals 20 12 1 0 3 3 6 1 5 6 14 10 13 2 7 8 19 9 1 6 0 5 3 8 13 13 0 2 1 2 2 0 6 15 10 11 1 9 17 0 1 0 114 2 0 9 1 1 0 132 32 Port New York Philadelphia Baltimore Norfolk Mobile New Orleans Jacksonville San Francisco Wilmington Seattle Puerto Rico Honolulu Houston St. Louis Piney Point Algonac Totals 15 0 2 6 6 12 6 24 5 18 3 11 9 12 3 3. 7 5 6 9 5 5 5 0 7 3 0 0 3 0 2 0 72 120 0 2 0 3 0 1 1 6 I 1 1 4 5 16 7 5 4 12 2 2 5 5 8 1 2 5 0 19 1 4 1 2 10 15 16 28 2 0 4 1 1 5 8 11 22 2 0 5 6 0 20 26 24 7 1 0 1 1 7 13 1 16 22 7 22 20 6 16 20 6 Honolulu Friday: May 19, June 16 4 0 1 6 16 1 0 84 1 0 0 0 0 0 90 17 39 208 252 64 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 11 5 I 1 I 0 2 0 0 3 8 5 12 12 5 86 1 3 3 0 3 26 22 1 0 0 2 4 3 13 10 2 1 2 3 5 0 2 0 3 0 0 3 9 13 17 11 20 11 13 6 2 7 5 3 1 0 4 6 71 19 34 1 2 0 0 5 2 4 0 0 0 0 0 2 3 15 18 0 0 1 8 1 0 11 0 48 2 11 0 2 3 2 2 1 9 2 9 3 2 0 0 0 0 33 0 5 9 3 1 2 2 1 6 18 5 0 10 10 8 3 5 6 2 0 3 0 9 5 16 3 12 0 5 13 1 8 8 12 17 13 17 9 13 4 37 17 1 10 3 74 8 0 1 0 2 6 0 0 0 1 1 6 0 8 3 0 7 9 4 2 1 0 1 2 20 9 0 1 16 0 0 1 1 37 Duluth Wednesday: May 17,June 14 Jersey City Wednesday: May 24, June U ' New Bedford Tuesday: May 23, June 20 7 8 4 15 10 0 3 Personals 1 2 4 7 5 3 4 8 5 Anyone who knows the whereabouts of William Yale Ballou, please contact his sister, Lorraine Hopper, at 4561 Mars Drive, Manchester, MD 21102. Brother Ballou is last known to have shipped aboard an inland tug from the port of New Orleans around 1973-74. 0 0 0 4 1 31 258 136 46 0 0 0 15 71 3 3 16 35 35 30 30 32 1 0 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 9 St. Louis Friday: May 19, June 16 Each port's meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. 8 1 San Juan 32 0 0 0 8 Seattle Friday: May 26, June 23 Thursday: May 11, June 8 0 3 2 Wilmington Monday: May 22, June 19 6 6 2 7 0 0 0 7 34 10 I 1 22 4 2 3 5 11 7 9 9 20 0 13 0 6 10 0 1 0 Port New York Philadelphia Baltimore Norfolk Mobile New Orleans Jacksonville San Francisco Wilmington Seattle Puerto Rico Honolulu Houston St. Louis Piney Point Algonac ENGINE DEPARTMENT 19 14 0 1 0 0 0 5 1 Thursday: May 18, June 15 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 2 7 1 22 9 10 7 0 0 0 12 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 92 26 33 13 69 35 1 10 28 3 29 22 24 23 16 11 137 12 0 32 3 2 2 357 434 0 129 34 153 196 44 Totals Totals All 919 lz222 129 104 417 354 250 608 DeEartments 455 * "Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port. **"Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port. 5 568 WILLIAM YALE BALLOU WALTER ROGER JAMES Anyone knowing the whereabouts of Walter Roger James, please contact his daughter, Holly Marie James, at 40 Mansfield Street, Framingham, MA 01701; or call (508) 879-8311. Brother James is Jast known to have shipped from the port of Seattle in 1967. MARIO ANTHONY SANCHEZ Please contact your daughter, Lois A. Sanchez, at 64-A Gardenia Drive, Maple Shade, NJ 08052; or telephone (609) 667-4273. TONY TOMAS Please contact your daughter, Samantha Tomas. AN EXPRESSION OF THANKS FROM RONALD AUBUCHON Recertified Steward Ronald Aubuchon extends his sincere thanks and appreciation to the SlU port representatives in St. Louis for the memorial mass conducted for Ronald's father, Roy, who passed away January 27. Roy Aubuchon, 77, was a retired member of the Teamsters. He and his wife, Thelma, had recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. "I just want the union to know how much my family and l appreciate their support," stated Ronald Aubuchon. - �16 SEAFARERS LOG APRIL 1995 Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes Seafarers International Union Directory FEBRUARY 16- MARCH 15, 1995 CL-Company/Lakes L-Lakes NP-Non Priority Michael Sacco President *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP John Fay Secretary-Treasurer Joseph Sacco Executive Vice President Augustin Tellez Vice President Contract') George McCartney Vice President West Coast Roy A. "Buck" Mercer Vice President Government Services Jack Caffey Vice President Atlantic Coast Byron Kelley Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP DECK DEPARTMENT 0 10 0 0 6 0 0 44 5 0 20 2 0 14 2 0 43 20 Totals All Departments 0 0 32 8 16 1 0 * "Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port. ** "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port. 121 29 0 4 1 0 3 0 0 15 7 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 6 0 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 4 0 1 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 DeanCorgey Vice President Gulf Coast HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD :20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr. Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters FEBRUARY 16 - MARCH 15, 1995 BALTIMORE 1216 E. Baltimore St. Baltimore, MD 21202 (410) 327-4900 DULUTH 705 Medical Arts Building Duluth, MN 55802 (218) 722-4110 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St. Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 PierceSt Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St. Jacksonvi1le, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JERSEY CITY 99 Montgomery St. Jersey City, NJ 07302 (201) 4 35-9424 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy. Mobile, AL 36605 (334) 47&-0916 NEW BEDFORD 48 Union St. New Bedford, MA 02740 (508) 997-5404 NEW ORLEANS *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals NORFOLK Norfolk, VA 23510 (804) 622-1892 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St. Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75 Piney Point, MD 2067 4 (301) 994-0010 0 8 8 41 0 2 56 2 10 0 13 2 0 0 0 0 0 17 0 19 1 3 3 0 7 21 0 2 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 16 0 49 4 11 67 4 11 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 1 0 0 0 0 0 7 0 0 2 0 0 10 0 0 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 1 0 0 0 0 2 2 0 I 0 2 0 10 13 0 4 30 16 43 0 26 1 29 1 1 0 0 2 0 3 0 20 11 44 6 81 2 0 I 4 2 4 0 2 9 0 I 0 1 1 15 3 8 9 Totals All Departments 82 11 25 81 6 12 125 * "Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port. ** "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port. 21 56 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 2 4 2 3 0 1 0 Are You Missing Important Mail? (504) 529-7546 115 Third St. 0 DECK DEPARTMENT 2 0 0 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 0 0 0 630 Jac~on Ave. New Orleans, LA 70130 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave. Brooklyn, NY I I 232 (718) 499-6600 3 10 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C In order to ensure that each active SIU member and pensioner receives a copy of the Seafarers LOG each month-as well as other important mail such as W-2 forms, pension and welfare checks and bulletins or notices-a correct home address must be on file with the union. If you have moved recently or feel that you are not getting your union mail, please use the form on this page to update your home address. Your home address is your permanent address, and this is where all official union documents will be mailed (unless otherwise specified). If you are getting more than one copy of the LOG delivered to you, if you have changed your address, or if your name or address is misprinted or incomplete, please complete the form and send it to: Seafarers International Union Address Correction Department 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 207 46 r------------------------------------------------------------, HOME ADDRESS FORM {PLEASE PRINT} 4195 PORT EVERGLADES 2 West Dixie Highway Dania, FL 33004 (305) 921-5661 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St. San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Government Services Division (415) 861-3400 Name SANTURCE - 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 161/2 Santurce, PR 00907 (809) 721-4033 SEATTLE 2505 First Ave. Seattle, WA 98121 (206) 441-1960 Social Security No. _ _ _ _ I ____ I _____ D D Active SIU Other D Pensioner ---~~-------------------~-~---------~ ST. LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave. St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 This will be my permanent address for all official union mailings. This address should remain in the union file unless otherwise changed by me personally. WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave. Wilmington, CA 90744 (Signed) _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ (310) 549-4000 ------------------------------------------------------------~ �SEFARERS LOG APRIL 1995 he Seafarers Pension Plan T this month announced the retirements of 16 SIU members who have completed their careers as merchant mariners. Twelve of those signing off shipped in the deep sea division, three sailed the inland waterways and one worked in the Railroad Marine division. Among those joining the ranks of the retirees is Brother Nick G. Kratsas. who graduated from the bosun recertification course at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. Seven of the retiring Seafarers served in the u.g. military- three in the Anny, two in the Air Force, and one each in the Navy and Coast Guard. On this page, the LOG presents brief biographical accounts of this month's pensioners. DEEP SEA MANSOR B.ABDULLAH,65. signed on with the Seafarers in 1969 in the port of New York. Brother Abdullah shipped in the deck department. Born in Malaysia, he became a naturalized U.S. citizen. Brother Abdullah makes his home in California. To Our New Pensioners • • • Thanks for a Job Well Done Each month in the Seafarers LOG, the names of SIU members who recently have become pensioners appear with a brief biographical sketch. These men and women have served the maritime industry well, and the SIU and all their union brothers and sisters wish them happiness and health in the days ahead. BARNEY JOHNSON, 66,began sailing with the union in 1968 from the port of Norfolk. Va. Born in South Carolina, Brother Johnson shipped in the steward department. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1946 to 1966. Brother Johnson has retired to Alabama. NICKG. KRATSAS, 48, graduated from the Andrew Furuseth Training School in 1964 and joined the union in the port of New York. Sailing in the deck department, he upgraded frequently at the Lundeberg School and completed the bosun recertification course there in 1979. He served the union as a patrolman in New Orleans from 1979 to 1983 and as port agent in Baltimore from 1990 to 1992. Brother Kratsas was born and raised in Maryland and continues to live there. JAMESS. MANNETTE JR., 58, ROBERT L. ELLIOTT, 67,began sailing with the SIU in 1969 from the port of Seattle. Born in Minnesota. Brother Elliott sailed in the engine department. He served in the U.S. Army from 1946 to 1949. Brother Elliott has retired to Texas. MARTIN " A.FOX,49, joined the Seafarers in the port of New York after graduating L.._--'====--=-.:=-~fromthe Andrew Furuseth Training School in 1964. He sailed in the engine department and upgraded to QMED at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. Born and raised in Maryland, Brother Fox continues to make his home there. AL AHMED ISMAEL, 54, signed on with the SIU in 1967 in the port of San Francisco. He sailed as a member of the steward department. Born in Yemen, Brother Ismael became a naturalized U.S. citizen. He presently lives in California. began sailing with the Seafarers in 1958 from the port of New York. A native of Pennsylvania, Brother Mannette shipped in both the deck and engine departments and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. He served in the U.S. Coast Guard from 1953 to 1957. Brother Mannette currently resides in Louisiana. VICTOR M. SANTOS, 63,joined the union in the port of New York following his graduation from the Andrew Furuseth Training School in 1960. Brother Santos shipped in the engine department. He has retired to his native Puerto Rico. JULES STANN.67, joined the SIU in 1973 in the port of New Orleans. Born in Louisiana, Brother Stann sailed as a member of the deck department. He served in the U.S. Army from 1950 to 1953. Brother Stann continues to reside in Louisiana. iiiiii~--i WILLIAM STEVENS, 55,joined the union in 1957 in the port of New York after .~ graduating L..__ ___.:::..:._...:::...::.::...::......:~fromthe Andrew Furuseth Training School. He sailed in the deck department. Born in New York, Brother Stevens now resides in New Jersey. ATHANASIOS K. VASSILIKOS, 53. signed on with the SIU in 1968 in the port of Houston. ·' ,A; He sailed in the deck department and upgraded to QMED at the Lundeberg School. Born in Athens, Greece, Brother Vassilikos now lives in Maryland. OSCAR C. WILLIAMS, 65, began sailing with the union in 1970 from the port of San Francisco. Born in Arkansas, Brother Williams shipped in ~====== both the engine and steward departments and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. He currently resides in California. INLAND BOBBY JOE BROGLEN, 62, signed on with the Seafarers in 1974 in the port of New York. Boatman Broglen shipped in the engine department. A native of Arkansas, Brother Broglen has retired to Alabama. WILLIAM L. HYNSON, 65, signed on with the union in 1968 in the port of Baltimore as 17 a licensed towboat operator. He sailed as mate and later as tug captain. The Maryland '----~-'------' native served in the U.S. Air Force from 1950 to 1952. Boatman Hynson continues to reside in Maryland. WILLIAM SHUBERT, 63,began sailing with the Seafarers in 1973 from the port of St. Louis. The North Carolina native shipped in the deck department. He started as a deckhand and worked his way up to mate. He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1951to1960. Boatman Shubert has retired to North Carolina. RAILROAD MARINE liiiiiiP'iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiil J 0 HN A. FORSYTHE, 65, signed on with the Seafarers in 1960 in the port of New York. L..__ _ __ ___, Born in New Jersey, Brother Forsythe continues to reside in his home state. Seamen Who Saw War Service May Still Apply for Bars, Medals U.S. merchant mariners who sailed in the convoy Merchant mariners who supported America's armed forces during World War II. Korea and Viet- runs to Murmansk during WWII should apply for that nam are eligible to receive medals to supplement medal directly from the Russian govenment-not from MarAd. Requests should be sent to the First Secretary war zone ribbon bars previously awarded them. and Consul, Russian Embassy Consular Division, Medals to Accompany Ribbon Bars 1825 Phelps Place, NW, Washington, DC 20008. The interested seaman must provide documentaAccording to the Maritime Administration tion of service in WWII and, specifically, evidence (MarAd) , more than 12,400 mariners were awarded of having sailed on vessels engaged in one or more the Merchant Marine Defense Bar for service be- convoys to Murmansk or Archangel. Include the tween September 8, 1939 and December 7. 1941. following information: full name and current mailThose mariners are eligible for the Merchant Marine ing address, full copy of merchant marine veterans Defense Medal. DD Form 214 ("Certificate of Release or Discharge Another 143,000 seamen received the Atlantic from Active Duty") and a list of the name(s) of the War Zone Bar for service during World War II vessel(s) sailed on during the convoys to Murmansk between December 7. 1941 and March 2, 1946, or Archangel. while 111,000 received the Pacific War Zone Bar for similar service. Those mariners are eligible for the Atlantic War Zone Medal and the Pacific War Zone Medal, respectively, An additional 94,000 bars for service in the Mediterranean-Middle East War Zone between December 7, 1941 and November 8, 1945 were presented. Mariners who received those bars also may receive the corresponding medal. More than 2,000 mariners received the Korean Service Bar for sailing between June 30, 1950 and September 30, 1953 in waters adjacent to Korea. They are eligible for the Korean Service Medal. Five thousand seamen were given the Vietnam Service Bar for sailing between July 4, 1965 and August 15, 1973 in waters adjacent to Vietnam. They are eligible for the corresponding medal. All of the recipients of the war zone bars are eligible to obtain the corresponding medals. The immediate families of deceased mariners also are eligible to receive the medal in behalf of the seaman. Some mariners who sailed in these wars never applied for the war zone ribbon bars they had earned. They may still do so. Applicants must provide proper documentation to MarAd of their merchant marine service in order to be considered for the ribbon bars and medals. The documentation must include the mariner's full name, z-card number or book number and copies of voyage discharge certificates. Inquiries should be directed to the Office of Maritime Labor & Training, Attention: Awards, The Mariner's Medal (above) is just one of a number Maritime Administration, Room 7302, 400 7th of medals being issued to merchant mariners who served in WWII, Korea and Vietnam. This particular Street SW, Washington, DC 20590. MarAd has entered into agreements with several medal was awarded to a seaman who, while servcompanies to supply the medals and decorations to ing on a ship from December 7, 1941 to July 25, eligible mariners at cost. Be sure to request a list of 1947, was wounded or suffered physical injury as a result of an act by an enemy of the U.S. the medal vendors. - - �18 SEAFARERS LOG APRIL 1995 Registering at the Duluth hall for the new Great Lakes Conveyorman Daryl Overby assists in load- Working in the Indiana Harbor's bilge during fitout, QMED Michael La sailing season is Porter James Beaudry. ing supplies aboard the Indiana Harbor. Bar helps prepare the vessel for the 1995 sailing season. Lakers Are Ready For 1995 Season Marie, Mich. Traditionally, the opening of "The ship is just like a little the Soo Locks marks the official city. Everything has to be start of the annual Great Lakes functioning properly in order for sailing season. it to function as a whole," Bonifas Jumping the Gun said. "We had to be sure that the alarm systems on the four engines Some ships did not wait for the were in excellent condition and Soo Locks to open to begin their that everything that we took apart 1995 runs. Among those ships to get ready for the winter was put was the Seafarer-crewed Buffalo (ASC), which began shuttling back together." Bonifas noted that the Mc- iron ore between Cleveland and Carthy would sail on March 23 Lorain, Ohio on March 14. Two from its winter port of Superior, days later, Inland Lakes Wis. with a load of coal destined Management's Alpena departed for St. Clair, Essexville and Mon- Cleveland with a load of cement roe, Mich. The QMED said the bound for Alpena, Mich. ship would leave in time to reach With the Soo Locks open, the the Soo Locks, located at Sault St. Indiana Harbor was scheduled to Continutd from page 14 sail at the end of March, picking up a load of taconite, a low grade iron ore, in Taconite Harbor, Minn. and proceeding to Lorain. The White was due to load either iron ore, stone or coal, and deliver the commodity to ports on the lower lakes. The remaining U.S. -flag Great Lakes vessels will begin their voyages between the end of March and the first weeks of April, according to Glen Nekvasil of the Lake Carriers' Association. "Every ship that is able to sail, will be in service early this year," projected Nekvasil. Future Looks Rosy That contrasts with the 1994 sailing season, Nekvasil pointed out. Due to heavy ice formations Wiper Charles Holtrey checks a pump on board the Indiana Harbor. last year, Lakes vessels got a late start, missing opportunities to · carry available cargo. Nekvasil is optimistic about this year's shipping prospects for Lakes vessels. "Demand is still going strong for everything on the Great Lakes. We are picking up where we left off when the '94 season ended," he said. The 1994 ~eason, despite its late start, had a strong finish in late January 1995, transporting more than 115 million tons of cargo between Great Lakes ports. ~· • l II••••, Chains are hung in an orderly fashion aboard the Walter J. McCarthy by Wiper Mohamed Omer. In the Indiana Harbor's conveyor shop, Gateman Floyd Larson gathers the tools he will need for fitout. �SEAFARERS LOG APRIL 1995 clarification of overtime and rest periods. Educational director urged members to upgrade at Lundeberg School. Engine delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck or steward The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union ship- delegates. Digest of Ships Meetings board minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships minutes first are reviewed by the union's contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. LEADER (Kirby Tankships), November 29--Chairman Patrick Rankin, Secretary Howard Williams, Educational Director Richard Gracey. Secretary noted everything running smoothly. Ship to pay off every month in port of New Orleans. Deck and engine delegates reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by steward delegate. Crew thanked galley gang for job well done. Next port: New Orleans. SEA-LAND SP/RIT(Sea-Land Service), December 11--Chairman Howard Gibbs, Secretary Steve Apodaca, Educational Director Charles Henley, Deck Delegate M. Sorenson, Engine Delegate Donnie Hester, Steward Delegate Arthur Medieros. Secretary encouraged members to upgrade skills at Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. Educational director stressed importance of donating to SPAD. Treasurer announced $73 in movie fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman reminded crew to secure exercise room after use. Next port: Honolulu. SEA-LAND TRADER (Sea-Land Service), December 4-Chairman Larry Watson, Secretary Ron Flunker, Educational Director Milton Sabin. Chairman thanked crew for good trip and announced payoff in Tacoma, Wash. He stressed importance of safety aboard ship and reminded crewmembers to check zcard expiration date. Bosun wished entire crew Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Secretary thanked deck and engine department for help in getting ship clean. He thanked galley gang for help in putting out a "blue plate" Thanksgiving dinner. Educational director advised members to upgrade skills at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. SEAL/FT ARCTIC (Sealift, Inc.), December 27-Chairman Warren Blankenship, Secretary Beverly Harris, Educational Director Neil Carter. Chairman reminded crewmembers of special smoking hours in crew lounge. Educational director discussed new tanker safety class being offered to crewmembers at Paul Hall Center. Chairman thanked all departments for jobs well done and gave special thanks to deck department for painting mess halls. 1ST LT. ALEX BONNYMAN (Maersk Lines), January 27Chairman John Russell, Secretary Billy Gigante, Educational Director Sean Hall, Deck Delegate Sean Flaherty, Engine Delegate James Hill, Steward Delegate Thomas Mccurdy. Crew morale good following long voyage from Diego Garcia to Jacksonville, Fla., chairman noted. Educational director reminded members to upgrade at Piney Point. Crew discussed possible uses for ship's fund: VCR tape rewinder, weights for gym, universal remote control for TV and VCR and new videotapes. Crew gave vote of thanks to steward department for job well done. Chief cook thanked deck and engine departments for help and cooperation during long trip. Crew noted that after massive struggle reeling in a 17-foot hammerhead shark from the Diego Garcia Lagoon, AB Bill Hamilton said, "We don't have these in Cleveland!" LNG LIBRA (ETC), January 15Chairman Bert Gillis, Secretary M. Ruggiero, Educational Director Paul Peterson, Deck Delegate Norman Armstrong, Engine Delegate Endang Abidin, Steward Delegate Brian McEleney. Educational director stressed importance of upgrading at Lundeberg School. Treasurer reported $2,403 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed President Michael Sacco's report in Seafarers LOG. Chairman reminded members to return all movies for inventory. Next port: Osaka, Japan. OM/ SACRAMENTO (Vulcan Carriers), January 29-Chairman Ray Gorju, Secretary Dante Slack, Educational Director Brian Monneljohn, Deck Delegate George Giraud, Steward Delegate Earl Matthews. Chairman noted mattresses ordered and expected to arrive this trip. He announced payoff in New Orleans and asked crew to leave keys with department heads. Bosun thanked everyone for good trip and urged eligible crewmembers to upgrade at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. SEA-LAND ATLANTIC (SeaLand Service), January !--Chairman William Stolty, Secretary Richard Hicks, Educational Director William Cameron. Chairman noted good trip so far and announced pay off upon arrival in Charleston, S.C. Educational director advised members to check December LOG for Paul Hall Center upgrading schedule for 1995. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested bus to provide service from ship to gate in Rotterdam during nighttime hours. Crew ex- HIGHLIGHTS Jst U. Alex Bonnyman-AB lands 17foot hammerhead shark from Diego ·Garcia lagoon dUring a break. Long Lines-Crew prepares for world's longest continuous cable laying operation. Sea-La.nd LiberatorSpends two days in Manilla, Philippinesa first for a D-9 vessel. OMI DynachemEducational director stresses need to donate toSPAD. tended special vote of thanks to steward department for job well done, and steward thanked crew for helping keep mess hall clean. SEA-LAND ENDURANCE (SeaLand Service), January 22-Chairman Tom Trehern, Secretary Ruebin Galleguillos, Deck Delegate E. Sparkes. Chairman asked contracts department for SEA·LAND INNOVATION (SeaLand Service), January 15--Chairman Nathaniel Leary, Deck Delegate Oliver Balico, Engine Delegate Juan Toro, Steward Delegate William Muniz. Chairman reported ship will tie up to sea buoys in Boston. He thanked galley gang for job well done and announced payoff in New Jersey. He encouraged members to upgrade at Piney Point at earliest convenience. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman reminded members to read Seafarers LOG, have all credentials available when going m union hall to throw in for jobs and renew seamen's documents. SEA·LAND INNOVATOR (SeaLand Service), January 7--Chairman John Stout, Secretary D. Clay, Educational Director David Bautista, Deck Delegate Charles Howell, Engine Delegate Steve Rollins, Steward Delegate M.F. Abuan. Crew requested new tiles for mess decks, fo'c's'le and crew passageways. Chairman reminded each member to clean room before signing off and leave key for next occupant. He noted repair list posted and reminded members to check z-cards for renewal dates. Educational director urged members to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked that canned juices be put in glass or plastic containers, labeled, dated and left out for daily consumption by crewmembers. When space permits, steward will comply with request. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. SEA-LAND LIBERATOR (SeaLand Service), January 21-Chairman Joel Miller, Secretary James Harper. Chairman reported everything going well aboard ship. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Due to Christmas holiday, Liberator spent two days in Manilla, Philippines-the first time for a D-9 type vessel, said crew. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. SEA·LAND PAC/F/C(Sea-Land Service), January 16--Chairman Lothar Reck, Secretary George Bronson, Educational Director Lorance Pence, Deck Delegate Thor Waagsbo, Engine Delegate Stephen Shafer, Steward Delegate Dien Short. Chairman informed members of importance of fire safety-knowing where fire stations are located, procedures to follow and use of emergency gear. He asked members to donate to SPAD and check with immigration and customs upon arrival in port. He also remjnded members to clean cabins and leave fresh linens for next occupants and to keep laundry room and crew lounge clean. Educational director advised members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer announced $400 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew extended special vote of thanks to steward department for job well done and for fine holiday meals. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. SEA-LAND PRODUCER (SeaLand Service), January 22-Chairman K.C. McGregor, Secretary Donna Jean Clemons, Educational Director Jim Smitko, Deck Delegate John Emrich, Engine Delegate Louie Diaz, Steward Delegate Paula Kaleikini. Chairman reminded crew to return videotapes to video room after viewing. Deck delegate asked contracts departm.ent to clarify emergency leave. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew announced arrival of new Seafarers WGs and noted special holder for LOGs by electrician's room. Crew thanked galley gang for great food at Sunday barbecue. Next port: Oakland, Calif. STONEWALL JACKSON (Waterman Steamship Co.), January 29--Chairman Carl Lineberry, Secretary Ernest Hoitt, Educational Director Wayne McKeehan, Deck Delegate John Lewis, Engine Delegate Crescencio Suazo, Steward Delegate John Bennett. Chairman reported one last stop at Suez Canal before return voyage to United States. He added first port of call will be Newport News, Va., then New Orleans. Secretary stated union forms available on board for all crewmembers. Educational director urged members to upgrade and improve job opportunities at Piney Point. Treasurer announced $480 in ship's movie fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman noted Seafarers LOGs received in Singapore. Crew discussed value of rotary shipping and seatime requirements. Crew requested larger refrigerator. Vote of thanks extended to galley gang for 19 SEA-LAND CHALLENGER (Sea-Land Service), February 12Chairman Roy Williams, Secretary Herbert Scypes, Educational Director J.E. Williams, Steward Delegate Rios Osvaldo. Chairman announced payoff upon arrival in Elizabeth, N.J. Crew requested new TV and VCR for lounge. Crew discussed holiday pay and overtime. Secretary noted garbage disposal still in need of repair. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked galley gang for job well done. SEA-LAND EXPEDITION (SeaLand Service), February 19Chairman Paulino Flores, Secretary Edgar Vazquez, Educational Director Sam Negron. Chairman noted everything going smoothly. Vessel due to go into shipyard but date and place still unknown. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Pulling Together \ When word came of the death of OS Jimmy S. Whiting's father-in-law last December, the crew of the cableship Long Lines took up a donation to help with burial costs. Presenting the gift to Whiting (left) are Bosun Pete Amper (center) and Chief Steward Mike Bonsignore. The photo was taken by Eddie G. Morre, splicerfjoiner aboard the vessel. excellent job preparing meals. Crew also thanked galley gang for midnight dinners over Christmas holidays. LNG AQUARIUS (ETC), February 4-Chairman John Thompson, Secretary Franklin Robertson, Educational Director Ralph Gosnell, Engine Delegate Bruce Smith, Steward Delegate Rafael Cardenas. Chairman noted quality of meats aboard ship being addressed by company. Bosun discussed end of tour and changeover of crew. He reminded members to pay attention to details and avoid accidents. He announced crew will be allowed to leave luggage on ship until travel time back to United States. Educational director reminded members to upgrade at Lundeberg School. Deck delegate asked contracts department to clarify overtime policies. Crew thanked contracts department for quick response to previous requests. No beefs or disputed OT reported. LNG LEO (ETC), February 5Chairman Philip Parisi, Secretary David Pappas, Educational Director Paul Pagano, Deck Delegate Mustari Lalong, Engine Delegate Richard Harris, Steward Delegate Glenn Williams. Chainnan and crew discussed letter from SIU members aboard LNG Taurus, sent by the contracts department, concerning working procedures in deck department. Decision made to hold shipboard meetings with all ABs to discuss current operating procedures of day watchstanding and work schedules. Treasurer announced $351.18 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crewmembers discussed using ship's fund to buy videotape rewinder, refrigerators, VCR head cleaner and board games. Crew observed one minute of silence in memory of departed SIU brothers and sisters. SEA-LAND FREEDOM (SeaLand Service), February 17Cbainnan Steve Copeland, Secretary Ed Haber, Educational Director David Gordius, Deck Delegate R. Los, Steward Delegate M. Baker. Crew discussed reflagging of Sea-Land Freedom. Crew had some questions for contracts deparbnent regarding expiration of articles. Educational director stressed importance of continued education at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked galley gang for excellent chow and clean ship. Next port: Singapore. LONG LINES (Transoceanic Cable), February 23--Chairman Hilary Dombrowski, Secretary D. Collison, Educational Director Joe Algiere, Deck Delegate Eddie Morre, Engine Delegate Shawn Clark, Steward Delegate Kenneth Cabato. Chairman noted ship on stand-by status in Sand Island, Hawaii, waiting to sail to Japan to load cable for worJd' s longest continuous laying of cable. He thanked crewmembers for working hard to prepare ship for voyage and historic event. Educational director urged members to upgrade at fine facilities at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer announced $615 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested new washers and dryers in laundry room. Crew discussed using ship's funds to buy new games and playing cards. Next port: Hitachi, Japan. OMI DYNACHEM (OMI), February 11-Chairman Larry Kunc, Secretary Matthew Scott, Engine Delegate Hassin Asumari, Steward Delegate Thomas Kreis. Chairman thanked crewmembers for job very well done. He announced payoff in Houston. Educational director reminded members to continue to upgrade at Piney Point and donate to SPAD. Treasurer announced $150 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. . �20 SEAFARERS LOG APRIL 1995 Crowley's Ubiquitous Caribbean Seafarers , There is not a single maritime service that the Seafarers who work from Crowley's Puerto Rico base cannot do. Whether it is operating ship docking tugs, navigating ocean-going tugs and barges that sail between the eastern seaboard of the United States and Puerto Rico, lightering all around the Caribbean or handling oil spill response equipment, Seafarers get the job done. In addition to operating different types of marine equipment, Seafarers also maintain the vessels and their engines and gear. And, often, the San Juan-based Seafarers are dispatched throughout the Caribbean-to St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. Kitts and nearby islands-to unload bunkers and perform other tasks. Because Crowley Marine Service Inc.'s unit in San Juan is the world's largest roll-on/roll-off barge operation, Seafarers work around-the-clock on tugs that guide 580-foot and 730-foot barges. Crowley Marine Service Inc.'s parent company, Crowley Maritime Corp., is based in San Francisco. !i--~;_ _ ..,.......,. It is the end of the work day for Seafarers at Crowley's Puerto Rico division, which has the largest fleet of marine equipment serving the Caribbean. At pier 10 are (left to right) Senior Captain Robert Candelario; Port Captain John Velez; Tankermen J. Diaz, P. Navarro, R. Diaz, P. Pizarro; and Cook A. Collazo. Crowley Seafarers deliver bunker fuel to vessels throughout the Caribbean. Taking a break during a St. Kitts-based fuel transfer are (from left) Lino Colon, a former SIU tanl<erman who now works as a supervisor, and tankerrnen Melvin D. Cardoza and William Viust. Working at Crowley is a Rodriguez family affair. Orlando Rodriguez (left) sails as a cook, while his brother, Miguel, works as a vessel mechanic aseaand ashore. Looking back on the times they shared at Crowley are QMED Tony Mohammed (left) and Captain Victor Rivera. Mohammed currently sails as a chief electrician. Rivera sails aboard Crowley tugs. Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership's money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretarytreasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust ... funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member's shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been vio1ations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Au th Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIUcontractsareavailableinallSilJ hall s. These con trac ts specify th e wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard hi bo M hers h ldkn as Por at em s ou ow tr t 'ghts, 11 th th · eli~ atc~n ac nh ~we fi as err o g tons, sue as ng or overtime (O'D on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. b EDITORIAL POLICY - THE SEAFARERS LOG. The members should obtain copies of men and the advancement of trade Seafarers LOG traditionally has this constitution so as to familiarize union concepts. In connection with refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or memher. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffinned by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. 1be responsibility for Seafarers WG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is oiven such o-- themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All memhers are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feelsthatheorsheisdeniedtheequal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. receipt In the event anyone attempts torequireanysuchpaymentbemade SEAFARERS POLITICAL without supplying a receipt, or if a ACTIVITY DONATION member is required to make a pay- SPAD. SPAD is a separate ment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purhave been required to make such pay- poses including, but not limited to, ment, this should immediately be furthering the political, social and reported to union headquarters. economic interests of maritime C 0 NS TIT UT I 0 NA L worlc.ers, the preservation and furRIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. thering of the American merchant Copies of the SIU constitution are marine with improved employment available in all union halls. All opportunities for seamen and boat- such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING TIIE UNIONIf at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20046. �..--------------~-------- ----- -- - - - - -- SEAFARERS LOG APRIL 1995 21 Final Departures DEEP SEA MARLOW C. BARTON Pensioner Marlow C. Barton, 68, passed away February 17. A native of Alabama, he began sailing with the '---==-=---.....l Seafarers in 1947 from the port of New Orleans. Brother Barton shipped in the deck department. He served in the U.S. Anny from 1950 to 1952. Brother Barton retired in April 1984. JAMES A. BROWNE Pensioner James A. Browne, 76, died January 22. Born in New York, he signed on with the SIU in the port of '-----"-'-""---"--...J Boston in 1953. Brother Browne shipped as a member of the deck department. A World War II veteran, he served in the U.S. Anny from 1940 to 1943. Brother Browne began receiving his pension in August 1984. ARTHUR C. CAMPBELL Pensioner Arthur C. Campbell, 70 "~ passed away February 3. He joined the union in 1960 ' in the port of New Orleans. Brother Campbell sailed in the deck department and completed the bosun recertification course in 1975 at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. Born in Nicaragua, he retired in April 1990. CHARLES A. CARR Pensioner Charles A. Carr, 88, died February 16. He began sailing with the SIU in 1947 from the port of New York. Brother Carr shipped in the steward department. A veteran of World War II, he served in the U.S. Anny from 1942 to 1945. Born in Panama, Brother Carr began receiving his pension in January 1976. LA VERN COATS Pensioner Lavern Coats, 72, passed away February 7. A native of Mississippi, he signed on with the ~=-___!=~ Seafarers in 1953 in the port of Baltimore. Brother Coats shipped in the engine department. During World War II, he served in the U.S. Navy from 1943 to 1946. Brother Coats retired in January 1983. JUAN A.G. CRUZ Pensioner Juan A.G. Cruz, 71, died February 3. Born in Puerto Rico, he began sailing with the union in 1948 from the port of New York. Brother Cruz sailed in the engine department and upgraded to QMED at the Lundeberg School. He began receiving his pension in January 1984. JAMES M. EDMONDS Pensioner James M. Edmonds, 74, passed away February 11. Born in South Carolina, he signed on with the Seafarers ==::;::.=-== in 1951 in the port of Mobile, Ala. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Edmonds retired in March 1986. FLORIAN J. GLINSKI Pensioner Florian J. Glinski, 70, died January 13. A native of Wisconsin, he joined the SIU in 1944 in the port of -···-· New York. He shipped in the deck department. Brother Glinski began receiving his pension in August 1981. ISIDRO GONZALEZ R-:'::iiii•llllll~:-"-'l Pensioner Isidro Gonzalez, 84, passed away January 21. Brother Gonzalez began sailing with the Seafarers as a charter member in 1938 from the port of Philadelphia. He shipped in the steward department. Brother Gonzalez retired in December 1971. ALGERNON B. GRIFFITH Pensioner Algernon B. Griffith, 77, died February 19. He joined the SIU in 1945 in the port of Baltimore and '----=::..=....:-_J sailed as a member of the steward department. Born in British Guiana, he became a naturalized U.S. citizen. He began receiving his pension in November 1982. DELOSS C. HARMAN c;;;--.iiiiiiiiiip;;;;;;;;;;;;;;~;;;oi Pensioner Deloss C. Harman, 72, passed away January 24. A native of Pennsylvania, he began his sailing career -==..=:---"---_J with the union in 1952 in the port of Mobile, Ala. He shipped in the engine department. Brother Hannan retired in November 1984. THOMAS N. JOHNSON Pensioner ThomasN. Johnson, 84, died February 6. Born in Virginia, he joined the SIU in 1946 in the port of New York. Brother Johnson shipped in the deck department. A veteran of World War II, he served in the U.S. Anny from 1941to1945. Brother Johnson began receiving his pension in May 1975. JAMES H. MOORE James H. Moore, 67, died December 27, 1994. Born in Washington state, he signed on with the SIU :......_.=== in 1956 in the port of Seattle. Brother Moore sailed in the deck department. A World War II veteran, he served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to 1943. WILLIAM J. MULLINS WilliamJ. .,,,, · Mullins, 40, ' passed away December 23, 1994. Anative of Texas, he joined the Seafarers in 1974 in Port ~~~......::._..=::!~=i Arthur, Texas. He also completed the Lundeberg School's training course for entry level seamen that year. Sailing in the deck department, Brother Mullins upgraded regularly at Piney Point. ALEXANDER R. NOBLE Pensioner Alexander R. Noble, 89, died October 20, 1994. A native of Australia, he began sailing with the ~----' Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1937, before that union merged with the SIU' s AGLIWD in 1978. He last sailed on the SS Monterey in 1962. During World War II, he served in the U.S. Coast Guard. Brother Noble retired in February 1963. CARMELO RIVERA Pensioner Carmelo Rivera, . 77, passed ·· away January 17. Born in Puerto Rico, he joined the ,-~ Marine Cooks and Stewards in the port of Wilmington, Calif., before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Rivera began receiving his pension in April 1982. JUAN RODRIGUEZ Pensioner Juan Rodriguez, 87, died Februaiy 23. He signed on with the Seafarers in 1944 in the port of Bal===--....==:!=..... timore. Brother Rodriguez shipped in the steward department. A native of Puerto Rico, he retired in July 1974. I ISOM SAULSBERRY SR Pensioner Isom Saulsberry Sr., 89, died December 23, 1994. He joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1944, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Born in Louisiana, Brother Saulsberry retired in December 1966. ROOSEVELT L. SILAS Pensioner Roosevelt L. Silas, 91, died December 18, 1994. A native of Texas, he began sailing with the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1951, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Silas retired in October 1977. J.P. SIMMONS \ Pensioner J.P. Simmons, 77, passed away December 5, 1994. He joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1957 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. A veteran of World War II, he served in the U.S. Anny from 1941 to 1945. Born in Texas, Brother Simmons began receiving his pension in July 1983. CHARLES S. SMITH Pensioner Charles S. Smith, 77, died February 14. Born in Louisiana, he began his sailing career with the Seafarers in 1947 in the port of New Orleans. Brother Smith shipped in the steward department. A veteran of World War II, he served in the U.S. Army from 1940 to 1945. Brother Smith retired in May 1983. JUANM.SOTO Pensioner Juan M. Soto, 81, passed away February 11. A native of Puerto Rico, he signed on with the SIU in 1942 in the port of New York. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Soto began receiving his pension in March 1969. ROBERT STRONG Pensioner Robert Strong, 83, passed away June 24, 1994. Brother Strong joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1942, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. He began receiving his pension in November 1972. WILLARD J. TAYLOR Pensioner Willard J. Taylor, 68, passed away February 28. Born in Pennsylvania, he began sailing with the Seafarers in 1947 from the port of Philadelphia, Pa. Brother Taylor shipped in the deck department. He served in the U.S. Army from 1943 to 1946. Brother Taylor began receiving his pension in July 1991. MARCUS THOMAS Marcus Thomas, 54, died February 8. A native of Illinois, he signed on with the SIU in 1966 in the port of New Orleans. He then completed the Lundeberg School's training course for entry level seamen. Brother Thomas shipped in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. Brother Thomas served in the U.S. Air Force from 1957 to 1958. TEODORO VALERIO Pensioner Teodoro Valerio, 58, died February ,, 12. He signed on with the Seafarers in 1968 in the port of New Orleans. Brother Valerio sailed in the deck department. Born in Honduras, he became a naturalized U.S. citizen. Brother Valerio began receiving his pension in September 1994. HOWARD M. WEBBER Pensioner HowardM. Webber, 67, passed away February?. The Ohio native began sailing with the SIU in -=~= 1946 from the port of New Yorlc. Brother Webber sailed in the deck department and upgraded regularly at the Lundeberg School, completing the bosun recertification program there in 1980. Brother Webber retired in 1990. INLAND ROBERT L. ARTIOLI ill Robert L. Artioli m, 41, died January 21. The Florida native signed on with the SIU in 1981 in the ' port of Jacksonville, Fla. Boatman Artioli sailed in the deck department as a mate and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1972 to 1974. < RICHARD H. DIX Pensioner Richard H. Dix, 65, passed away January 30. Born in Virginia, he " ' joined the ~. ,.~ Seafarers in ~~~~-""" :.~..t~~':...J 1962 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Boatman Dix shipped in both the engine and deck departments. He served in the U.S. Army from 1951 to 1958. Boatman Dix began receiving his pension in November 1991. BEVERLY SUE HARRIS Beverly Sue Harris, 46, passed away February 27. Born in Tennessee, she joined the Seafarers in 1980 in the port of Houston.A member of the steward department, Sister Harris last sailed as a chief cook. GREAT LAKES JAMES E. DONER James E. Doner, 46, died January 3. Born in Wisconsin, he began sailing with the Seafarers in 1970 from the port of Algonac, Mich. Brother Doner sailed in both the steward and deck departments. He served in the U.S. Army from 1965 to 1968. - �22 SEAFARERS LOG APRIL 1995 Lundeberg School Graduating Classes 1st Class Pilot- Inland members graduating from the 1st class pilot course on March 2 are (from left) David Sundling, Thomas Stropich, Jerry Stropich and Jim Brown (instructor). Marine Electrical Maintenance I- Upgrading SIU members completing the marine electrical maintenance I course on February 15 are (from left, kneeling) John Osburn Jr. , Dennis S. Riley, Sean Nolan, (second row) Robert Mayer, John P. Groom, Robert E. Warren, DiMarko L. Shoulders Sr., George E. Hoopes and Mark Jones (instructor). 200 Tons Master/Mate Class-Completing the 200 tons master/mate class on March 2 are (from left) James A. Hebert, Denis W. Abshire, Lionel J. Paul, Larry S. DeWim and Jim Brown (instructor). Power Plant Maintenance- Graduating from the new power plant maintenance course on February 15 are (from left, kneeling) Michael S. Novak, John R. Day, Jorge Bonelli, (standing) Dan Holden (instructor), Glenn Snow and Daniel Boutin. Upgraders Lifeboat- Isidro Palacios (left) 1s congratulated by his instructor, Troy Guber, after completing the upgraders lifeboat course on March 7. HARRY SEAFARERS LUNDEBERG SCH OO L LIFEBOAT CLA SS 534 T - Trainee Lifeboat Class 534- Graduating from trainee lifeboat class 534 are (from left, kneeling) Hector J. Ginel, Scott A. Miller, Oscar R. Torres, Norman Barbosa, Char1es W. Abell, Chad R. Fluharty, (second row) Kevin J. Williams, Jayson D. Miller, Troy D. Garcia, Brian Tessmer, Jason Smith, Cody Roy Lepretre and Bob Boyle (instructor). H£/,/)SfAO sute MA~e: co10~1ss, llEMEM •etl5. CO~f~Uf~ f01'H~ St~~~ Pc1Uf\CAL. )tfloN V6NA11t»J �--------------------------------~~~~---APRIL 1995 SEAFARERS LOG LUNDEBERG SCHOOL 1995 UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE The following is the course schedule for classes beginning between April and September 1995 at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship located at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. All programs are geared to improve job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. The course schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and-in times of conflict-the nation's security. Please note that students should check in the Friday be/ore their course's start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. Steward Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Assistant Cook/Cook and Baker, Chief Cook, Chief Steward April 7 June 16 August25 June30 Septembers November17 Engine Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Com~letion QMED -Any Rating August14 November3 July3 April 17 June 19 June26 Mayl August 7 July 28 April 21 June23 June30 July 14 October20 Junes July7 June30 Septembers Course Start Date Date of Completion Diesel Engine Technology Refrigeration Technician Certification Able Seaman July 31 October20 Fireman/Watertender & Oiler Bridge Management (Shiphandling) April24 July 17 Mays July 28 Deck Upgrading Courses Hydraulics Marine Electrical Maintenance I Lifeboatman July 17 July 28 Limited License/License Peep. July 3 September 25 August 11 November3 Radar Observer/Unlimited April 17 April21 May26 July 14 May22 July 10 August 14 September 25 Third Mate August 18 October29 December 15 August28 Power Plant Mailltenance May22 July 31 April 24 July 17 Pumproom Maintenance Refrigeration Systems & Maint. September 11 August28 Refrigerated Containers Welding Basic Electronics Marine Electronics Aprif 24 April24 May8 Junes June2 August25 Septem~22 October6 May19 May19 June2 June30 All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. Inland Courses Safety Specialty Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Advanced Firefighting September 11 September 22 Oil Spill Safety Recertification April27 May25 June22 July 20 September 21 April 27 May25 June22 July 20 September 21 Oil Spill Prevention & Containment August7 Augustll S~Jift Qp~rati~~ ?Jl~ .Maintenance Junes June .30 . April 24 May22 June 19 July 17 May19 June 16 July 14 September l l August14 September8 October6 Course Start Date Date of Completion Bosun Recertification Steward Recertification Mayl Junes July 3 August 7 an er Operations 23 Course Start Date Date of Com~letion Deck Inland May29 August 14 April 10 July 24 April 10 June9 August2S April 21 August4 April21 May12 Designated Duty Engineer/ Limited License/License Prep. Engineroom Familiarization Radar Observer/Inland Welding Electronics May8 May22 July 17 June2 July28 AddHlonal cilurses Augustll Course Start Date Date of Completion GED Preparation Mayl July 21 August22 April 3 NovemberlO May26 Junes July 28 Adult Basic Education (ABE) and English as a Second Language {ESL) Deck and Engine Department College Courses Course Session II Session III Start Date June S Date of Completion July 28 October27 September S ··~·········------------------------------···········-----------------------·-·:·········------------------·-····-············-··--------------------··- UPGRADING APPLICATION Pnmary language spoken (Street) (City) Telephone_..._ __..__ _ _ _ __ With this application, COPIES ofyour discha.rges must be submitted showing sufficient time to qualify yourselffor the course(s) requested. You also must submit a COPY of each of the following: the first page ofyour union book indicating your department and seniority, your clinic card and the front and back of your z-card as well as your Lundeberg School identification card listing the course(s) you ha.ve taken and completed The admissions office WILL NOT schedule you until all of the above are received (Month!Day/Y ear) (ArcaCode) Deep Sea Member D (Zip Code) (State) Dare of Birth _ _ _ _ _-,--_ __ Lakes Member D Inland Waters Member 0 .· COURSE BEGIN DATE END DATE If the following infonnation is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security # Book# _ _ _ _ _ _ __ S e n i o r i t y - - - - - - - - - - - - - Department - - - - - - U.S. Citizen: D Yes D No Home Port - - - - - - - - - - Endorsement(s) or License(s) now h e l d - - - - - - - - - - - - - - LAST VESSEL: - - - - - - - - - - - - - Rating: _ _ _ __ Date On: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Date Off: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ ·, Are you a graduate of the SHLSS trainee program? DYes DNo If yes, class# - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Have you attended any SHLSS upgrading courses? DYes DNo If yes, course(s) taken _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? DYes DNo Firefighting:DYes DNo CPR:DYes DNo SIGNATURE._ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _~~DATE _ _ _ _ _ __ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you ha.ve any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. RETURN COMPLETEDAPPUCATIONTO: Lundeberg School of Seamanship, Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075. 4195 �PLANNING A SUMMER VACATION? »: '" ;i. "'" .,.,. .,:;, ' ( y !< v , ~ "'" ' :.:>:.':':~ """ The Lundeberg School can provide you and your family with the makings of a memorable summer vacation. For additional information and rates, see page 11. :% •%:;~~fl*,~ ·fiV@fitota . Volume 57, Number 4 April 1995 Seaman/Poet/Writer/DJ Cushman on Seafaring: 'The Freedoni to Live a Dreani' ... "If I were asked to describe my life as a Seafarer in only one word," AB Michael Cushman told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG, "I would say that word is freedomfreedom to see the world and to live the life of other people's dreams,'' Living life to the hilt comes easily to the multi-talented AB. In addition to using his career as a seaman to visit faraway places, Cushman, a 1980 Lundeberg School graduate, writes prose and poetry, is a parttime disc jockey and bicycles his way around different ports on the Great Lakes. . All his endeavors are possible, he believes, because of the independence being a Seafarer gives him. "Being a sailor is kind of the last job where you can have true adventures," said Cushman, whose first ship, coincidentally, was the Sea-Land Adventurer. "When you sail on a ship, you can go to different places, far away from where you live and have never been before. You can meet different people and fill your life with things that those who have the same routine day in and day out only wish they had the freedom to do," added the AB. "And the beauty of it all is that I get paid." In the last 15 years, the Michigan native has sailed to 18 different countries, as well as to numerous U.S. ports, aboard SIUcrewed tankers, bulk carriers, roll-on/roll-off vessels, containerships and tugs. And now, following in the footsteps of his step-father, Cushman sails aboard a cement carrier, the when he met up with the other crewmembers at the Seaman's Club, he enjoyed a camel burger. "It was so good that I had two!" exclaimed the AB. Cushman currently is working on two new books and hopes they will be published. The first is a novel based on the life of a seaman who gives up sailing to become "a type of modern-day Daniel Boone" by moving into the woods and "living the simple life." The second is a manual of money-saving tips designed to be useful for everyone. Poetic Soul Cushman has an extensive collection of poetry he also has written over the years; many of his poems have appeared in the Seafarers LOG. Below is an excerpt from one of Michael Cushman's book manuscripts. The AB writes on many topics that concern seamen. A storm is a fact that all of us as sailors have to deal with in our own way, '!'?stly by ·ust not thinking about it. But when. i~ s ~ouglifi J ut and the ship is in a good roll, it s kind o ~ d not to think about it. Some of the tf:ughts a sailor has in a storm are, what will I do if she breaks up? What about m~ fi ·z ? You think about your life and what it :::;b~~n and what it will be like in the future, if there is a future. When the storm has passed by, you simply thank God and keep on sailing. In addition to his SIU career, which spans deep sea and Great Lakes' sailing assignments and includes experience in all three shipboard departments, Cushman finds time for other pursuits. Those sailing experiences provide the material for much of the seaman 1 s prose. Riding the Air Waves When he signs off a Great Lakes' vessel to enjoy a little down time, the SIU member becomes "Michael J," the 90.l WLSO-FM radio disc jockey who entertains radio listeners in the Sault Ste. Marie, Mich. area with his humorous discussions and musical selections. Known as "Radio Clash," Cushman's show airs out of Lake Superior State University in Sault Ste. Marie and combines alternative rock and classic blues. "I began the show to develop my skills as a disc jockey so that I would always have an alternative career if I someday I could not sail," Cushman said. "It also helps pass the time while on the ship and fill the time between sailing seasons," he added. Cushman's audience is relatively small and is made up of college students and local residents, he noted. "I pick the music based on my own tastes and it turns out that it is the same stuff my audience enjoys," he said. Cushman encourages " audience participation" during his radio show through call-in discussions, request lines and by urging local artists to send in samples of their writing and music to be aired. The AB added that such a practice encourages local writers and bands to have their work advertised during radio time which he notes is "free advertising and which is enjoyed by everyone." A Bike in Every Port Recording the Memories - After nine months of construction, the vessel Alexander Kane Cushman was ready to be launched with many hopes and dreams that this vessel will always sail calm seas, yet when stormy, sail brave and strong to the dawn of a clear new day. As this vessel sets to the sea, the sea of life, it's my wish to you that each voyage be filled with happiness ----------------------~--.....-~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Medusa Challenger. Cushman has written a series of manuscripts (currently under review by a publishing house) that describe different aspects of shipboard life. When Seafarers are not hard at work aboard ship, there is a lot of time spent alone, miles out to sea, away from any form of civilization, the seaman notes. "I choose to fill that time by writing. It not only passes the time but also helps me get things out and on paper. I write about whatever is on my mind, · but when I write about sailing, my thoughts and words are geared toward the sailors of the world, because we all have a lot in common," he said. Cushman has written a year-long diary of his life as a deckhand. He also has written about his travels and adventures, work on freighters, general maritime information and sailing terms. In one of his manuscripts, Cushman describes a trip through the Suez Canal into the Red Sea and the ship's stopover in several Saudi Arabian ports. In another account, he recalls a time when he and several crewmembers rode in a cattle trailer into the town of Dubai. The seaman even recalls a time when he hitchhiked across the desert to another small town in Saudi Arabia. "It was the first time I had ever been to Saudi Arabia, and after all the work was done on the ship, we had a bit of free time," recalled Cushman. While most of his crewmembers headed for the Seaman's Club, the AB decided he would talce the opportunity to seek adventure. "All I really knew was that the town was somewhere off to the left [of the ship], so I took off into the desert and hitched a ride into town," said Cushman. The manuscript goes on to describe that Through his poetry, the Seafarer often and joy and each adventure describes people and ships as one and the profitable. same. He also writes about events closer to home. A poem entitled "Alexander Kane Cushman's poetry reflects his love of the sea, Cushman" was written for, and about, his his compassion for sailors of the world, and young son and was published in the LOG last the effect sailing has had on his own life. year. It reads: Seafaring DJ rocks Great Lakes with Radio Clash Alexander Kane Cushman (right) frequently visits the Great Lakes vessels with his father AB Michael Cushman. In addition to being a writer and disc jockey, Cushman is known around the ports of Ferrysburg, Detroit and Grand Haven, Mich. for his bike riding. While sailing to different ports on the Great Lakes, Cushman keeps ..a bike in every port" to facilitate his trips between the dock and the town. When the ship is in port and all work has been done, the AB gets on his bike and rides into town to enjoy a few hours of free time before the ship sails again. True Brotherhood of the Sea aywa~. 1t11eadsol1 pally_,.,. lbd1cnntof1f~1Jl 1bc: "Mal<c my doy, plllk" dl>Outy IUny ~ .., ,.. Id loltll<~ ......... - •Budd...allllllltM>piod. . -ByAIMT. . - Y "Michael J" is how AB Michael Cushman is known by radio listeners in the Sault St. Marie area. He has become fairly popular among his audience, as this Charlevoix, Mich. newspaper notes. Dwarfed by the Medusa Challenger's propeller, while the vessel was in the shipyard for routine work, is AB Michael Cushman. While Cushman has many interests, his first love is the sea. "There is a true brotherhood of the sea from ship to ship and across the waters. All mariners look out for one another, just like members of a family do," said Cushman. In fact, just two days after his son was born, Cushman and his new baby, Alexander, visited the crew aboard the Medusa Challenger. 'The guys all love him. We are all like a big family and now Alexander is the newest member. I bring him down to the docks to visit all the time," stated Cushman. Cushman noted that it is this same family-like feeling that he enjoys most about the SIU. "IfI didn't have the SIU, I wouldn't have had the travel, friends or adventures that I have experienced during my sailing years," Cushman continued. He added that he has no plans to stop sailing. "Even if one of my books or a radio show is a big hit, I will never give up my career as a Seafarer. It is a job unlike any other. As a Seafarer you have the power to make of yourself whatever you want to be, and I have made it a job that I love and myself into someone I can be proud of," concluded the seaman/poet/writer/DJ. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 1990-1999 Description An account of the resource Volumes LII-LXI Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993; Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource April 1995 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES STUDY FINDS U.S. GOV’T SHIP PROGRAMS RETURN MORE DOLLARS THAN THEY TAKE SHIP BILL HITS HOUSE PANEL SENATE COMMITTEE APPROVES LIFTING ALAKSA OIL EXPORT BAN SIU FIGHTS SEA-LAND’S REFLAGGING MANEUVER SENATE WHIP LOOKS FOR WAYS TO RETAIN CARGO PREFERENCE FMC, SHIPPING ACT OF ’84 CONTINUE GAINING SUPPORT PR SHIPPING LINE HAS NEW OWNER SHIPPING RULES AMENDED TO RECOGNIZE UPGRADING ‘NEVER TOO OLD TO LEARN’ SAY 5 TOP STEWARDS CONCERNS RESOLVED ON INDEPENDENCE CLINTON ORDER FORBIDS USE OF STRIKE SCABS BY GOV’T CONTRACTORS SIU SEEKS ACTION ON COURT ORDER TO REFUND Z-CARD FEES SEAFARERS BREAK OUT NEW ITB CLARKE ‘DROPS ANCHOR’ AFTER 42 YEARS AT SEA ALTON BELLE CREWMEMBERS PRAISED FOR SPEEDY RIVER RESCUE ATTEMPT SEAFARERS GIVE TOP MARKS TO TANKER SAFETY COURSE SHORTAGE OF SEAMEN EXPOSES NEED FOR AMERICAN MARINERS SAY MARAD CHIEF RUNAWAYS FOSTER PERILOUS CONDITIONS MILD WEATHER, STRONG CARGO DEMAND SHORTEN WINTER LAYUP ON GREAT LAKES THE FREEDOM TO LIVE A DREAM Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 04/01/1995 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 57, No. 4 1995 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/f03efcb964e1a1691166c828e260467c.pdf 8c674570f5e7a4d1a0cc40916f72cc0b PDF Text Text Senator Trent Lott: ''I want a U.S.jlag fleet, manned by American crews, and U.S. ships f!uilt by American labor.,, Speaking to an executive board meeting of the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department, Senate Majority Whip Trent Lott expressed concern about the status of the American merchant marine and outlined his goals for improvement. Page 3. Maersk Flags 2 Ships Under 'Stars & Stripes' Page4 Clinton Proposed 1996 Budget Funds U.S. Ship Program Page2 �2 SEAFARERS LOG MARCH1995 President's Report A Fight for Job Security Last month, Sea-Land was granted permission by the Maritime Administration to haul down the American flag on five of the company's ships, replacing it with Michael Sacco the Marshall Islands label. After MarAd gave Sea-Land the chance to reflag, no sooner could one blink than the company was laying up its vessels, anxious to not miss a minute before it could put foreign crewmembers aboard and escape the regulations of the United States. Insofar as the SIU is concerned, the approval by the Maritime Administration of the transfer of five Sea-Land ships to Marshall Islands registry is a . decision that is contrary to the national interest. In 1993 and 1994, the U.S. government did not allow the reflagging of any American-flag ships. Instead. all efforts were concentrated on getting a new maritime program through Congress and signed into law by the president. While a bill did not pass in 1994, it was only a parliamentary maneuver that held it up. The legislation to fund some 50 U.S.-flag containerships for 10 SIU: Exporting Alaska Oil On American-Flag Vessels Promotes U.S. Tanker Fleet The SIU outlined its position in favor of the export of Alaskan North Slope (ANS) crude oil during a hearing before the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee on March 1. The committee was taking testimony on the Alaska Power Administration Sale Act (S. 395), which includes legislation to end the ban on the sale of Alaskan oil to overseas markets provided the petroleum is carried aboard U.S.flag tankers. The bill was introduced by Senators Frank Murkowski (R-Alaska), chairman of committee, and Ted Stevens (R-Alaska). Presenting the union's case at the hearing was SIU President Michael Sacco, who told the senators that lifting the 22-year ban would provide jobs for American seafarers and keep the U.S.-flag independent tanker fleet operating. "At present, much of the independent tanker fleet is in layup or headed for the scrap heap," Sacco informed the committee. "When tankers sit idle, so do our men and women. "Once converted to razor blades, tankers no longer provide any employment opportunities. Once destroyed, the vessels, and their crews, are no longer available in time of national emergency." Sacco pointed out that several studies on the export sale of Alaskan North Slope oil have noted that the United States would see increased federal and state revenues. He said a Congressional Budget Office report listed the figure of nearly $60 million over five years, while the Department of Energy projects as much as $180 million depending on the future price of oil. "Neither of these estimates ineludes the increased tax revenues likelytoflowfromthejobsbeing created," he added. Until last year, the union had been in favor of the export ban since its was implemented during the Arab oil embargo of 1973 because the oil would have been carried on foreign-flag tankers, Sacco stated. "Had they been authorized, those exports would have led to the destruction of the nation's independent tanker fleet and caused a catastrophic loss of jobs for our members. Our nation wou~~ ha_ve suffered the loss ?f a Illlh~y useful fleet essential to national . defense." However, the urnon changed it~ pos~tion l~st year following d1scuss1ons with SIU-contracted tanker operat?rs ~ho pointed out that the decline m North Slope production "wo~ld premature~y lead to the scr~ppmg of vessels m the Alaskan od trade." Listening to testimony on lifting the export ban on Alaskan oil are, from left, Senator Frank Murkowski {A-Alaska), chairman of the Energy and Natural Resources Committee, and Senator J. Bennett Johnston (D-La.), the ranking minority party member. Volume 57, Number 3 March 1995 The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 0160-2047) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District; AFL-CIO; 5201 Au th Way; Camp Springs, MD 207 46. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Second-class postage paid at MSC Prince Georges, MD 20790-9998 and at additional mailing offices. POS'IMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Managing Editor, Daniel Duncan; Associate Editors, Jordan Biscardo and Corrina Christensen Gutierrez; Associate Editor/Production, Deborah A Hines; Art, Bill Brower; Administrative Support, Jeanne Textor. years clearly had the support of the majority of legislators in both the House and Senate. And while a new Congress was elected in the November general elections, there is no reason to believe that this diminishes the chances of passage of a similar piece of legislation in 1995 . In fact, support for a strong U.S.-flag fleet has always been a bipartisan issue. So you could say the decision on the part of MarAd to allow five U.S.-flag SeaLand ships to go foreign was not only premature, but unnecessary. Neither Sea-Land, nor MarAd allowed the 104th session of Congress a chance to pass a maritime revitalization bill. Let me talk about another aspect of this reflagging business-Sea-Land's anxiousness to get these ships operating under foreign flag and its willingness to in a heartbeat toss over its American crews and its American identity. The uruon does not intend to allow the company to forget its obligations to the nation and the men and women who have operated its ships. Seafarers and the other crewmembers who have worked on Sea-Land ships for the past few decades have built an equity in the company that cannot be measured in a few dollars and cents. We consider ourselves shareholders in Sea-Land, with as much a claim to the future of the company of any investor. Over the days and weeks and months ahead, the SIU will be calling on its members to assist in its engagement with SeaLand. I am sure the men and women of the SIU are up to the test. After all, it is our job security that is at stake. Cl•InI on 1996 BudgeI The U.S.-flag tanker fleet must carry - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - exported Alaska oil, Sacco says. Sacco referred to the Clinton administration's support for the bill, which was announced earlier in the hearing by William H. White. the deputy secretary for the Energy Department. In prepared testi~ony presented to the committee, White stated, "All ANS oil must be exported in U.S.-flagged and U.S.-crewed vessels. Legislation must provide substantial protection of seafarer employment opportunities for American workers." White outlined other reasons for the White House to support the bill. Among them are the president's ability to reinstate the ban in theeventofanationalemergency, assurance that crude oil supplies will be accessible at world market prices and a review that environmental laws will be observed before any oil is exported. Also testifying before the committee were U.S. Representatives Bill Thomas (RCalif.), who is sponsoring a similar bill (HR 70) in the House, Lt. Governor Fran Ulmer of Alaska as well as representatives from oil companies and refineries, state and local governmental bodies and the maritime industry. NodateforfurtheractiononS. 395 was announced by the committee. However, it is expected to mark up the bill for considerati on by the full Senate before summer. Earmarks Funds For U.S. Sh1·pp1·ng The Clinton administration has proposed a new 10-year, $1 billion maritime revitalization program that will help fund 50 U.S. containerships as part of the Fiscal Year. 1996 Department of Transportation (DOT) budget. . The money for the program is part of a $309 million request to fund the Maritime Administration (MarAd), an agency within DO~ that over~ee~ matters concemmg U.S. sh1pp.mg. The proposal differs from the legislation of~er~d last y~ar in that the $100 milhon be mg consid~red for FY '96 would come strrught from the DOT budget. In the measure that passed the House of Representatives but died in the Senate last year, DOT sought to acquire the funds by raising the tonnage fees on vessels entering U.S. ports. As outlined when the budget was released on February 6, the funding would provide $2.5 mi]lion per ship per year through the 1998 fiscal year. This would provide funds for up to 40 vessels. The package then would offer $2 million per ship per year through FY 2005 for up to 50 vessels. Like last year's legislation, the proposed maritime revitalization Maritime s Status Is Unclear In DDT Reorganization Plan 1 A complicated reorganization plan for the Department of Transportation (DOT) would eliminate the Maritime Administration (MarAd) and place its functions into one of three proposed, consolidated agencies. As detailed by Transportation Secretary Federico Pena on February 2, DOT would reduce its present 10 agencies into three: Intermodal, Coast Guard and Aviation. It appears the plan proposes that the functions handled by MarAd, including the Ready Reserve Force, cargo preference program supervision and Title XI shipbuilding loan guarantees, would fall under the proposed intermodal agency. This new agency also would deal with surface transportation such as rail and highways as well as their safety and special programs that handle pipelines and hazardous materials. The SIU's response to the plan was cool. Upon hearing Pefia outline, the union issued the following statement: "At first glance, the plan looks like something cooked up by academics with very little thought as to how program calls for those operators receiving funding to keep their ships active in the international commercial trades. The vessels would be made available to the Department of Defense in times of war or national emergency. The MarAd budget also ineludes $52 million for the shipbuilding loan guarantee program, known as Title XI. This appropriation would support up to $1 billion to build ships in American yards for both U.S.and foreign-flag vessels. The FY '96 budget calls for $359 million from the Defense Department for the Ready Reserve Force (RRF) fleet. MarAd will continue to manage the RRF vessels. The funds for the RRF will allow for the purchase of additional vessels, ship activations and deactivations to test readiness, vessel maintenance and operatiOns. The Clinton budget also requested $32 million for operation of the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, N.Y. Overall, the administration submitted to the Congress a $1 .6 trillion budget for operating the federal goverment. things really work. The plan itself is confusing. It is not clear where maritime stands, if it stands at all. The SIU will seek more details that will allow a determination as the value of the plan." Most of the changes outlined by Secretary Pefia will require congressional approval before they can be implemented on October 1 when the 1996 fiscal year begins. Pefia stated many items have to be worked out before such legislation is presented to the legislators. The new Coast Guard agency is expected to include functions it held before like marine law enforcement, maritime safety and marine environmental protection as well as national military security functions. �MARCH1995 SEAFARERS LOG Lott Details Agenda for A Strong U.S. Fleet Senate Majority Whip Trent Lott (R-Miss.) pledged to vigorously work for a strong U.S. shipping and shipbuilding capability in an address to the executive board of the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department (MID). Speaking on February 17 to representatives of the MTD's 42 affiliated unions and 28 area port councils, Lott said, "I want a U.S. -flag fleet manned by American crews, and U.S. ships built by American labor." Lott, whose Senate position places him directly behind the majority leader in the chamber's hierarchy and who thus holds the second highest position in the Senate, outlined a number of legislative goals that he has for the 104th Congress, which is dominated by a Republican majority in both chambers. Noting that nothing less than America's national security is at stake, Lott, who also chairs the Senate Subcommittee on Surface Transportation and Merchant Marine, said he intends to work to pass a bill that provides funds to U.S. liner companies in exchange for allowing their vessels to be available for defense purposes. He expressed hope that the nation's cargo preference laws (which allocate a percentage of American government generated cargoes to U.S.-flag carriers) can be maintained and that the Congress will enact initiatives designed to put U.S. shipbuilding on equal footing with its foreign competitors. The Mississippi senator, who served in the House of Representatives from 1973 until his election to the Senate in 1988, also said he would look for ways to improve the job government does in regulating shipping, but he opposed simply tossing out agencies, such as the Federal Maritime Commission and the Maritime Administration, that have proved their value in the past. Passing a U.S. Ship Bill The chances of passing a maritime revitalization plan are good, Lott said. Admitting that "last year, our efforts to pass maritime reform became en- ~:;,~e!~t~~ :~~~~~::~~~e:~ thwarted passage of the shipping ~.;;~~~~~;~~·Lottsaiditwa• The administration's budget proposal of $100 million to fund us fl h' · · · .- ag s ips m Fiscal Year 1996 and similar amounts over the following nine years is a good start, Lott said. "I think the administration has come up with something we can work with." SIU Vows to Fight Reflagging Move Of Sea-Land Co. The SIU will fight the transfer of five U.S.-flag ships to foreign registry by Sea-Land Services, Inc. by whatever means are available, the union's president said in response to a notification by the company that the five vessels will be reflagged between February 23 and April 12. SIU President Michael Sacco said the union "will use every means available to prevent this move that is inimical to the national interest." Sea-Land's original request, filed inJune 1993 to theMaritime Administration (MarAd), sought approval for the transfer of 13 of its U.S.-flag containerships to foreign flags. (Under U.S. law, MarAd is required to approve such transfers under Section 9 of theMerchantMarineActof1916 as amended.) But because the Congress was considering a maritime revitalization program proposed by the administration that year and in 1994, the Maritime Administration did not immediately act on the application. In November 1994, SeaLand once again petitioned Mar Ad, a Department of Transportation agency, to allow the company to reflag five of its vessels-three SL-31 class ships and two D9Js.. On February 14, the Maritime Administration (MarAd) approved the removal of five SeaLand vessels from U.S. registry-the Sea-Land Freedom, Sea-Land Mariner, SeaLand Pride, Sea-Land Motivator and Sea-Land Value. The government agency announced that Sea-Land, which is a subsidiary of the Richmond, Va.-based CSX Corp., had been given permission to transfer the five ships to Marshall Islands registry. It is time to try again to get a U.S. ship program through the Congress, Senator Trent Lott (A-Miss.) tells the executive board of the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department. Lott, who serves as the Senate majority whip, also tells the assembled unionists that cargo preference programs must be maintained. Because it is vital that U.S.flag vessels have a "semi-level playing field" against foreign carriers receiving "all kinds" of subsidies, Lott said, "I'll be working with the administration . . . to keep that operating differential in place." Cargo Preference Stays . The senator, a son of a uruon pipefitter, said he was aware of efforts in the Senate to kill cargo preference laws, which require that 100 percent of defense supplies, 75 percent of donated food aid and 50 percent of other government-impelled cargoes be transported on U.S.-flag vessels. Lott announced that he was holding meetings with other proc argo preference Republican senators like Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas), Ted Stevens (R-Alaska), William S. Cohen (R-Maine) and Thad Cochran (R-Miss.). Additionally, he said he had talked with Barbara A. Mikulski (D-Md.) and John Breaux (D-La.) because "we're going to work together across the aisle in a bipartisan waytosupportcargopreference." Referringtothestrongopposi- tion of certain farm-state senators and agricultural groups to the application of cargo preference laws to government-donated food products to poorer nations, Lott said, "I think it's a big mistake when we allow the maritime industry and agriculture in America to be competitors. "If we work together, we can carry [American-grown grain] on [U.S.-flag] ships, built in America and crewed by Americans," Lott said. "But we've got to work together to do that." Continued on page 8 Passage of Maritime Revitalization Bill Is Top Priority for White House: DOT Maritime Administrator Albert J. Herberger renewed the Clinton administration's call for ·tali ti f ·tim pas.sag~ 0 iruu:1 e revi za on leg1slat10n dunng an appearance be~ore the annual. ~eetmg of the A L-CIO Man time Tra~es Department (MTD) executive board last month. Joining Herberger at the twoda y gathering was Morton L. Downey, deputy secretary for the Department of Transportation. Downey, the number two man at the department, told the representatives of the national and international unions representing 8.5 million workers that maritime revitalization is still Transportation Secretary Federico Pena's "number one priority on the legislative front." The Clinton administration proposed within the department's Fiscal Year 1996 budget a 10year, $1 billion effort to fund approximately 50 U.S.-flag containerships. (See article on page 2.) Such a program was passed overwhelmingly by the House of Representatives last year but died in the Senate when it was blocked from consideration by a parliamentary move. Hurdles Cleared Downey noted that the administration has "taken some of the hurdles out of the way in terms of the way it was stopped last year." Herberger, who heads the Department of Transportation agency that deals with matters concerning U.S. shipping, said the use of tonnage fees to raise funds in the legislation last year "drew opposition from many quarters that normally supported maritime initiatives." He pointed out that the $100 million being sought for Fiscal Year 1996 to fund the program "will come directly from the Department of Transportation budget. "We believe this change in direction from last year's course will be supported by both the House and Senate. Our support in Congress has not waned." Downey added, "We have full support from the White House to get this done, and we think it is the Outlining the administration's year that we can get it done." Security Need Cited Herberger said the need for a strong U.S.-flag fleet is "crucial to our national security. "A modern U.S. merchant fleet provides vital sealift capability for military engagement and other national emergencies in the most efficient way possible, and strengthens the U.S. presence in international trade. Unless action is taken to revitalize U.S.-flag operations, the United States could become wholly dependent on foreign-flag ships to carry U.S. exports and imports. "Without a U.S.-flag fleet, would we be able to negotiate from strength with our trading partners, or will our bargaining power be severely diminished? I suspect the latter." The maritime administrator pledged to continue the effort to transform U.S. shipyards from producing primarily military vessels to building ships that will be proposals for the U.S.-flag fleet to the MTD board is Maritime Administrator Albert Herberger. competitive in the international commercial marketplace. Support for Shipyards "We have heard that our labor rates cannot compete with foreign shipbuilders," Herberger stated. "However, that is not the case. "First, U.S. shipyard labor rates are comparable to those of major foreign shipbuilders. We also have a quality, skilled shipbuilding workforce. You can't tell me that workers who have been working on the most sophisticated warships in the world are not skilled craftsmen." According to Maritime Administration estimates, Herberger said between 7,000 and 9,000 large ocean-going vessels will be built by 2001. "We are trying to get a piece of this market for U.S. yards and U.S. workers," he told the board. 3 �..--------------------------..-------------- 4 - SEAFARERS LOG MARCH1995 Two Maersk Ships Reflagged, Placed Under U.S. Registry ,. ..11' r· . 1. lo>- ' Titus and Gibson Will Join Prepositioning Force During a formal ceremony in Baltimore on February 13, Seafarers looked on as large banners were lowered to present name boards for the LTC Calvin P. Titus and SP5 Eric G. Gibson. The two former Danish-flag containerships were renamed in honorof two U.S. Army Medal of Honor recipients in a special ceremony on board the Gibson. U.S. Army Chief of Staff General Gordon Sullivan presented the name boards before a large crowd made up of Seafarers, officers and military personnel attending the service and proclaimed, "God Bless these two ships." Afloat Prepositioning Force Seafarers wil 1 crew each vessel as it is transferred to the American flag and made a part of the Military Sealift Command's (MSC) Afloat Prepositioning Force, which retains military equipment on ships for use in war or contingency operations in the Middle or Far East. The two identical ships, formerly the Adrian Maersk and Albert Maersk, combine the capabilities of roll-on/roll-off, container and breakbulk vessels. At the time of the special shipboard service, final conversions to U.S. Coast Guard regulations were being completed on both ships at the Bethlehem Steel Shipyard in Sparrows Point, Md. Seafarers expressed their satisfaction with the ships. "I think that these two ships will be excellent new vessels," said Andrew Barrows, bosun aboard the Gibson. "We have been working closely with the shipyard to make sure that everything is going right, and the quality of the work has been excellent," Barrows told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG. Preparing for Inspection The vessels were purchased by Maersk Line, Ltd. at the end of 1994. Concurrent with reflagg i ng, the vessels are being modified to enhance their mission capabilities. As part of MSC' s prepositioning force, the Gibson and Titus will provide the U.S. military with the ability to react to a variety of missions around the world, from landing equipment in a combat environment to delivering supplies following a natural disaster. Prepositioning means having the logistical support already in place in key ocean areas of the world in the event of an international emergency. The major modifications include crane installation and cargo-space air conditioning which will make the ships self sustaining and suitable for the carriage of prepositioned cargoes such as trucks, tractors, ammunition, fuel, medical supplies and other materiel. departments, boarded the ships earlytoassistintheconversionof the vessels from Danish to U.S . standards. Other SIU crewmemhers were scheduled to report to the ships in the Baltimore shipyard by the end of last month. "Those of us who are here early have basically assisted in all of the modifications of the ship," noted Barrows. 'The main purpose for us being here earlier than the rest of the SIU crew is to prepare both ships to pass the U.S. Coast Guard inspections, which are the toughest in the world," he said. "We have two brand new, excellent Hagglund cranes which will give the ship self-loading and unloading capacity," noted the bosun. He added that all the garage spaces have been insulated, with each space having a separate firefighting capacity. Scott Heginbotham, bosun aboard the Titus, said, "We have changed everything from nameplates above doors and in haJlways, on down to the smallest details. It has been a very timeconsuming process because absolutely everything is written in Danish," Heginbotham said. He added that all the firefighting equipment throughout each ship was Danish and had to be replaced with U.S. gear. New Galley Equipment ment," he noted. The steward/baker added that all new supplies, including cutlery, pots and pans, had been ordered for use in the modified galleys aboard the Titus and Gibson. "I really think that this will be a great ship. Lots of work, but indeed, a great ship," concluded Lyking. When work in the shipyard is complete, the vessels will be delivered to MSC and will sail to Charleston, S.C., where they will be loaded with 30 days' worth of Army supplies and materiel. The Titus and Gibson will be stationed with the Army's prepositioned fleet in Saipan. One ship's namesake, Lieutenant Colonel Calvin P. Titus, was awarded the U.S. Army's Medal of Honor for scaling the Peking Wall in 1900, leading a group of soldiers during the Boxer Rebellion in China. Specialist 5th Class Eric G. Gibson posthumously was awarded the U.S. Army's Medal of Honor for bravery while fighting German troops during World War II. The ships are 784 feet long and more than 100 feet wide and can travel at speeds of up to 21 knots. Both the Titus and the Gibson have 45,000 square feet of garage space in which to transport the military equipment. Brought under U.S. flag to serve in the military's prepositioning force, the SP5 Eric G. Gibson sits at anchor while undergoing remodeling and conversion at the Bethlehem Steel Shipyard in Sparrows Point, Md. The Titus, like the Gibson, combines the capabilities of roll-on/roll-off, container and breakbulk vessels. Inset: A large banner is lifted during formal ceremonies last month, revealing the name board for the LTC Calvin P. Titus. "The Titus will be a very fine ship," said Steward/Baker Hugh Wildermuth, one of the first crewmembers to report to the ship to assist in the conversions, which included a complete redesign of the galley. "It is a totaJly new galley. We went from a servicestyle galley to a cafeteria style, with all top-of-the-line equipment," explained Wildermuth. The steward/baker on the Gibson, George E. Lyking, noted that "everything and anything" is new and different from the original Danish galleys. "All of the old equipment has been replaced with new and modem provisions," stated Lyking. "The new cafeteria style of the galley makes it a more compact galley than it previously was, and it will Aboard the Eric G. Gibson, Steward/Baker George Lyking Gibson'sbosun,AndrewBarrows, take some adjusting for both the QM ED/Electrician Everett Snow noted the changes that have been said the quality of the work done on crew and the steward depart- checked out the electrical system. made to the galley on the Gibson. the vessel has been excellent. During the Conversion Bosuns on the Gibson and · QMED/Electrician Dave Patterson (left) and DEU Gary Hartman as- One of the first crewmembers to Scott Heginbotham, bosun on the Titus, as we 11 as representatives sisted in the conversion of the Calvin P. Titus from Danish to U.S. report aboard the Titus was Titus said everything aboard the from both the steward and engine standards. Other modifications included adding Hagglund cranes. Steward/Baker Hugh Wildermuth. ship was replaced with U.S. gear. �MARCH1995 SEAFARERS LOG Tom Fay Dies, Was Lundeberg School VP Most recently serving the Seafarers as vice president of the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship, Tom Fay died of cancer on February 27. He was 58 years old. Brother Fay became the head of the Lundeberg School, based at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., in 1993. As commander of the base, Fay oversaw the school's training programs for entry level mariners and seasoned seamen who come to the facility to upgrade their shipboard skills. While battling cancer, the Boston-born Fay continued to supervise the school's activities. SIU President Michael Sacco observed that Fay "never complained about his situation." "He gave 100 percent always," Sacco added. "And he was the nicest individual, a very special person." Prior to assuming the Lundeberg School post, Brother Fay was in charge of the SIU's port operation in Honolulu, assuming that job in 1987. In addition to directing one of the union'sbusiesthalls,Fayservedasvicepresident of the Hawaii AFL-CIO and secretarytreasurer of the Honolulu Port Maritime Council. He was deeply involved in state politics in behalf of the union. In the 1992 union elections, Fay was elected by the membership to a port agent position. Hearing of the SIU official's death, Rep. Neil Abercrombie (D-Hawaii) said, "Tom Fay was a good friend. His commitment impressed everyone who knew him." The congressman, on whose campaigns Fay had worked, noted that "With Tom Fay, you could be sure that the SIU' s voice would be heard. He put his members' interests first and foremost ... and he knew that a strong merchant marine means a strong America." Fay's roots in the merchant marine date from 1958 when, as a young man who had finished a three-year stint in the U.S. Marine Corps, he began shipping with the SIU. Sailing in the engine department, Fay worked his way up the shipboard career ladder to chief electrician. While he sailed primarily in that rating, he also worked as a chief pumpman. Recalling the start of his work as a merchant mariner, Tom Fay told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG during a 1993 interview, "I was following my brother, John, to sea. He already was sailing and I liked what he told me about it." (John Fay today serves as the SIU's secretary-treasurer.) In all, four Fay brothers took to the sea. In the early '60s, Brother Fay came ashore for a brief assignment at the union's headquartersinBrooklyn,N.Y.Hereturnedtosea, but also laid the groundwork for starting his own construction company, skills that would be called upon by the union a decade-and-ahalf later. In the early '80s, after Fay had been ashore running his construction business, the SIU pressed him ba~k into service. Fay su~ervised the const~c~10n. of the Se~farers headquarters building m Camp Spnngs, Md. After the building was completed, Fay stayed on with the SIU, serving in a number of capacities for the union before assuming charge of the SIU' s Honolulu hall, a position in which he "did a heck of a job," according to the union's West Coast vice president, George McCartney. ''Tom was a very sincere, dedicated person-a definite asset to the union and its members," McCartney said. Fay's tenure at the Lundeberg School was remembered by those who work there. "He was one of the best people I worked with and worked for," said Carl Peth, director of the Piney Pointbased manpower center. Bobby Clinton, the school's motorpool director, who knew Fay for 25 years, said, "Everybody at Piney Point loved him, and he will be missed." Acting commander of the Lundeberg School base, Neil Alioto, said, "It was a pleasure to work with Tom." "You can sum up the difference Tom made in two words," Alioto observed. "He cared." Brother Fay is survived by three brothers and three sisters; his wife Doris, to whom he was married for almost 40 years; and three daughters, Robin Fay, Ann Marie Boidi and Donna Lindsey, a Lundeberg School graduate who followed in her father's footsteps in a sailing career, and four grandchildren. Burialtook place on March 3 in St. Mary's Cemetery in Randolph, Mass. Torn Fay was one of four Fay brothers who took to the sea. He joined the SIU in 1958. ' 1 U.S. Ship Bill Torn Fay's seagoing life was emulated by his da.ughter, Donna Lindsey, who sai.le.d as a chief steward. Torn and 1?onna are JOmed by Donna's husb~~d, John ~mds!3y, a m~rnb~rof the SIUNA-aff1hated Manne Firemen s Union. 'E~~~§.:EJI-T"' ·-~~~ , __ ;.-= - Brother Fay last served the union as vice president of the Lundeberg School, a job he took in 1993. Above, Fay holds a staff meeting with the school's instructors. SIU Fights for Seamen Safety Provisions · In International Maritime Group's Standards Representatives of the SIU were in London last month to ensure that the safety of seamen is the primary consideration in the ongoing international efforts to update a 17-year-old convention that sets minimum standards for certification, training and skills needed by mariners worldwide. The convention is known as the International Convention of the Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW), passed in 1978. It sets minimum levels in these areas for the nations that adopt it. However, signatory nations can have more stringent rules than the ones set out in the STCW. Revising '78 Standards The groups working on these standards are known as the Interses s i o nal Working Group (ISWG) and the Subcommittee on Training and Certification (STW) on the revision of the 1978 International Convention of the Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) of the International Maritime Organization (IMO). Last month marked the fourth meeting of the ISWG and the 27th session of the STW. The meetings were conducted at IMO headquarters in London. The next meeting, during which the final revisions will be made to the convention, also is scheduled to take place in London, from June 26 through July 7. During the most recent meetin gs, the SIU contingent and other representatives of American maritime 1abor continued to speak out for the interests of U.S. merchant mariners. As in previous meetings, they fought attempts-some veiled, others overt-by groups from foreign nations to reduce manning levels and weaken mariner training requirements. The entire U.S. contingent and a vast majority of other delegations also continued to oppose the suggestion-made by a small but influential group of countries-of solo bridge watch at night. Further, the subcommittee agreed to include, for the first time, a minimum rest period for individuals assigned as officers in charge of a watch or as ratings forming part of a watch in the mandatory section of the STCW code. (Countries which are signatory to the STCW treaty agree to obey the pact's mandatory provisions. There also is a voluntary section. Currently, more than 90 countries have adopted the STCW convention.) Rest Must Be Provided According to the new requirement, these individuals must be provided a minimum of 10 hours of rest in any 24-hour period. The hours of rest may be divided into no more than two periods, one of Marine Panel Chair Bateman To Push for which must be at least six hours. adopting the new kind of mariner In addition, the 10-hour period certification should not be used to may be reduced to no fewer than six hours, provided such reduction does not extend longer than two days and no fewer than 70 hours of rest are provided each week. In addition to the new requirement mandating the minimum rest period for watchstanders, the STW has been looking at new ways of certifying seamen's qualifications for shipboard work. The original convention, adopted in 1978, addressed shipboard qualifications by recognizing positions (or titles) for both licensed and unlicensed personnel aboard ships based on departmental demarcations. Reviewing Alternatives But the STW, at the direction of the IMO, during last month's meeting and in previous sessions has been reviewing alternative means to certify the same mariners by describing the functions each must perform to hold a particular position, rather than assigning a title to a department job. Consequently, it is anticipated that the updated convention will offer both the traditional approach and a functional approach (also known as alternative certification) as means for providing mariner certification. It is important to note that cut corners or endanger safety, the SIU holds. Thus, during a meeting in late 1994, in the drafting group on the principles governing the issuance of alternative certificates, the SIU fought for and won approved language stipulating that the final regulation governing certification will not allow the issuance of alternative certificates to be used to reduce manning levels or training requirements. U.S. Meets Criteria Because the U.S. is a signatory to the convention, z-cards and licenses held by American merchant seamen are recognized by the IMO as meeting the criteria set forth in the '78 pact. But the standards for training and qualification that must be met by U.S. mariners are much greater than those outlined in the convention. The agreement therefore does not override the laws of nations which maintain higher standards and qualifications. The IMO's call to update the STCW came on the heels of a number of maritime disastersall attributed to human errorthat took place during the past few years. The IMO was created in 1959 by the United Nations, in order to improve safety at sea. The chairman of the House Merchant Marine Panel called on Congress to pass a maritime revitalization program this year during his address to the Washington, D. C. Propeller Club meeting on February 27. "For those who man, build and operate our U.S.-flag vessels, the need for action this year is essential,"U.S. Representative Herbert H. Bate man (R-Va.) told the gathering. "We need to convince America and its representatives in Congress that the U.S. merchant marine is an indispensable element of our national security without which our status as a world power will be seriously undermined." Bateman, who also serves as the chairman of the new House Military Readiness Subcommittee which oversees the U.S. merchant fleet, said he and the members of the Merchant Marine Panel "are committed to fight to save the U.S. merchant marine fleet." Joining Bateman at the luncheon were the vice chairman of the panel, U.S. Representative Randy "Duke" Cunningham (RCalif.), and the panel's ranking minority party member, U.S. Representative Gene Taylor (D-Miss. ). The Virginia legislator said that action on a maritime revitalization bill must take place this year. Looking at Funding Sources He stated that he wants to try to find a number of ways to fund such a program, including the use of Defense Department money. He called the fact that the Clinton administration did not seek a tonnage fee to pay for the program in its 1996 fiscal year budget "a good sign." (In the legislation passed by the House but killed in the Senate during the last session of Congress, a 10-year, $1 billion maritime revitalization program was to be paid for by a tonnage fee on vessels entering U.S. ports. In the FY 1996 budget submitted last month to Congress, the administration included $100 million in the Transportation Department's budget to fund maritime revitalization.) Regarding domestic shipbuilding, Bateman said he believes negotiations ought to be reopened on the international level to secure an agreement that eliminates the subsidies of foreign governments to their shipyards. Bateman said he wants the Merchant Marine Panel to begin work soon, but no date has been set for its first meeting. 5 �6 MARCH1995 SEAFARERS LOG U.S. Maritime Backers Defend FMC, '84 Ship Act Cost-Efficient Federal Maritime Commission Endangered by Budget Cuts Maintaining the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) and preserving the Shipping Act of 1984 are essential to America's economic and security interests. That message was delivered again and again by U.S.-flag carriers, maritime labor officials and current and former members of Congress during an all-day hearing of the House Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee on February 2. Both the FMC and the Shipping Act of '84 face possible elimination or at least reduction due to federal budget cuts and calls from some shippers for deregulation of ocean cargo transportation. Ironically, as noted by officials from American President Cos., CSX Corp. (which owns Sea-Land Service) and Crowley MaritimeCorp. injointtestimony to the subcommittee, the ShippingActof'84anditsadministration by the FMC were a "deregulatory response" by the Reaganadministrationtotheprevious administration's "failed attempts to unilaterally apply U.S. domestic antitrust law to international ocean shipping." The Shipping Act of '84, through an exemption to U.S. antitrust laws, allows international shipping lines to jointly set transportation rates. This practice, which helps ensure that everyone has access to the same rate information, was established to protect the interests of American consumers, shippers and shipping operations. (Without antitrust immunity, joint rate-setting is a violation of U.S. law.) The functions of the FMC, an independent agency established in 1961, include enforcing provisions of the Shipping Act of '84 that call for fair rates and a nondiscriminatory regulatory process for the common carriage of goods by water in the foreign commerce of the U.S., fighting any other discrimination or prejudice in U.S. trade and licensing ocean freight forwarders. Elimination of the FMC and repeal of the legislation would dangerously drive up rates, cost thousands of maritime-related U.S. jobs and devastate America's sealift capability, FMC supporters warn. The subcommittee this month is expected to introduce legislation addressing both the FMC and the Shipping Act of '84. Unions Back FMC SIU President Michael Sacco joined with presidents of six other maritime and maritime-related unions-Joel E. Bern, District No. 1-Marine Engineers' Beneficial Association; John Bowers, International Longshoremen's Association; Timothy A. Brown, International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots; Michael McKay, American Maritime Officers; Brian McWilliams, International Longshoremen's and Warehousemen's Union, and Louis Parise, District No. 4MEBA/NMU-in urging the subcommittee to preserve the FMC and the Shipping Act of '84. "We cannot and must not allow a group of shippers concerned only about their own and not our country's interests to dietate the future of the United States-flag merchant marine, the viability of America's ports and, ultimately, the economic competitiveness of American exports. "The chaos and instability which will result if the Shipping Act of 1984 is repealed will weaken if not destroy America's maritime transportation network and lessen America's security," the union presidents said in written testimony. "It would also destroy thousands of American jobs-on United States-flag vessels and in shoreside maritime-related activities, as well as in the vast U.S.flag intermodal transportation Warm Weather Prompts Early Lakes Shipping The 1995 sailing season on the said Glen Nekvasil, communicaGreat Lakes is scheduled to begin tions director of the Lake in mid-March, thanks to relative- Carriers, Association, which ly mild weather and a continua- monitors the action of tion of plentiful cargo demand. American-flag shipping on the The SIU-crewed Buffalo is Great Lakes. "We've been lucky with the slated to begin shuttling iron ore between Lorain, Ohio, and weather," he added. "There's Cleveland on March 13, unoffi- some ice on the lakes, but it's not cially marking the start of the anywhere near as bad as it was a season, while a number of cement year ago." carriers are to begin operating on Engine and steward departMarch 16. Nearly 50 vessels are ment members normally are the expected to be in service by April first to sign on the vessels as fitout 1, representing approximately 80 begins. While the engine crew expercent of the Lakes fleet. ecutes any needed repairs and (The Soo Locks, which are I refills pipes that had been ocated between Lake Superior and emptied during layup, the galley Lake Huron, are set to open on gang orders stores and makes March 25. This will allow opera- other preparations for the season. Members of the deck departtions on all the Great Lakes to begin.) ment usually join the ships within Seafarers who sail on Great a few days after their fellow crewLakes vessels should be in touch members, and the vessels begin with the SIU hall in Algonac, sailing two or three days later. Mich. for information about Coal, iron ore and stonewhen vessels will fit out and to which are required in steel make preparations for the season. production-are the highest"In 1994, 115 million tons of volume commodities moved on cargo moved in U.S.-flag vessels the Great Lakes. The Great Lakes on the Great Lakes. It was a basin is home to nearly threerecord year, and we're looking to Ifourths of America's steelpick up right where we left off," making capacity. network that provides jobs in virtually every inland and coastal state." They pointed out that the Shipping Act of '84, as implemented and enforced by the FMC, has benefitted the U.S. through perpetuating ocean transportation rate stability. "As a result, it has effectively prevented foreign owned and controlled shipping lines from disrupting our trades with predatory and destructive rate practices.'' Exporting U.S. Jobs A panel representing carriers made it clear that eliminating the Shipping Act of '84 will force American shipping companies overseas. Appearing before the subcommittee, Sea-Land Service President John Clancey, APL Land Transport Services President Timothy Rhein and Crowley Maritime Vice President and General Counsel William Verdon notedthatotherinternationalservice industries, including aviation and communications, have their own, specially tailored regulatory schemes. In their joint statement, they described the Shipping Act of '84 as "the only major area of U.S. maritime policy in which U.S. carriers are affirmatively placed on an equal competitive footing with foreign carriers. "If the act is eliminated or substantially changed, the regulatory burden will fall disproportionately on American carriers. Virtually all other major trading nations grant some form of antitrust immunity to their own carriers or have no antitrust laws of their own. These same countries have shown in the past that they will resist application of American antitrust laws to their carriers." Call for Analyses Retired Rep. Helen Bentley, a former FMC chairperson as well as a longtime supporter of the U.S. maritime industry, advised the subcommittee that any changes to the FMC or the Shipping Act of '84 should be made only after careful, detailed analyses. The former Republican congresswoman from Maryland also stated that the agency and the act should, for the most part, remain intact. "Should the FMC and our regulatory scheme be abolished, our trades will be governed by the laws, rules and regulations of the European Community, and the United States will have only the status of an outsider if we wish to change the rules or complain about their administration," Bentley said. "It would be economic suicide for the world's largesttrading nation to leave the export and import of its goods and commodities solely dependent on the foreign policy and commercial whims of foreign countries who may be our friends today, but not like us tomorrow." Bentley and others also predicted that the effects of scrapping the FMC and the current regulatory scheme would seriously harm small shippers and ports, and would lead to a long-term skyrocketing of rates. She appeared on a panel that included former FMC member Rob Quartel, who served during the Bush administration. Quartel The Shipping Act of 1984 The Shipping Act of 1984 was passed during the second session of the 98th Congress and signed into law by President Reagan. Through an exemption from U.S. antitrust laws, it allows for common rate setting established in international shipping conferences. The intended benefits of the act include: rate stability and predictability; a means of monitoring and correcting unfavorable shipping conditions in the U.S.-foreign trades {via the Federal Maritime Commission); fair treatment of small- and medium-sized shippers through the tariff filing system, which ensures that everyone has access to the same rate information; a stable investment climate which has facilitated billions of dollars of Investment by U.S. shipping companies; preservation of thousands of U.S. jobs on American-flag vessels, in shoreside maritime-related activities and in the vast U.S..flag intermodal transportation network, and, as the law itself reads: "to encourage the development of an economically sound and efficient United States-flag liner fleet capable of meeting national security needs." On the whole, the act is intended to protect the interests of U.S. consumers, shippers and shipping operations. A federally mandated review of the act in 1992 concluded that quality and quantity of services have improved since 1984, while rates substantially have been lowered. ------------------------used the public position to to guard the interests of U.S. conpromote his anti-U.S.-flag ship- sumers, shippers and shipping ping agenda. Now working with operators by ensuring equal acforeign-flag interests, Quartel cess to rate information. spoke in favor of dismantling the Rep. Herbert Bateman (RFMC and repealing the Shipping Va.), not a member of the subAct of 1984. During last month's committee but of the full appearance before the subcom- committee-and also the chairmittee, Bentley repeatedly cor- man of a House panel charged rected Quartel as he misstated with developing legislation to facts about current maritime revitalize the U.S.-flag merchant programs and regulatory policy. fleet-attended part of the hearIn fact, at one point Rep. Jim ing. He focused on the national Oberstar (D-Minn.) also warned security issue. Quartel to stop twisting facts to "There is a very, very substanmake a point. tial national security concern that demands we have a U.S.-flag Congressional Support merchant marine," said Bateman. A number of subcommittee "We're dealing here not with inmembers voiced support for terstate commerce, but one in preserving the FMC and the which competition comes from regulatory setup. those who subsidize." "Congress and the administraSubcommittee members who tion seem to be in a head-over- have indicated that they favor heels rush to. ~.isf!lantle eliminating the FMC and repealgovernment agencies, . Rep. ing the Shipping Act of '84 inJames Traficant(D-Ohio) What 1 Baker (R-ca l"f) ' · · ·· c1ude Rep. B'll 1 · v-:e re. w1tnessmg now is reduc- and Rep. Susan Molinari (Rttons JUSt to say we reduced, and Ny) it's not necessarily in the best in- · · · terest of this country .... To me, Efficient Agency the missions of the Federal Current FMC Chairman WilMaritime Commission are ab- liam Hathaway noted that the solutely crucial to our trade and agency has reduced staff by oneglobal competitive interests." third during the last 10 years. He Rep. Don Young CR-Alaska) stated that in the last six years, the agreed. "I tell my colleagues that FMC has collected more than $55 if you're looking to cut back big million .· in fines and penalties, government, this is not the place monies returned to the U.S. to do it. I don't want domestic treasury. The net cost to run the carriers picked off by foreign agency has been only $7 million shippers. What's happened to this per year during that period, and in industry is a travesty, and I'm not two of those years the FMC has about to put another pin into this returned a profit. voodoo doll." Hathaway also echoed Minnesota Democrat Oberstar remarks that eliminating also warned against abolishing an government's involvement in entire agency as a result of quick decisions. He observed that air ocean cargo transportation would and trucking deregulation has shift market power to a few large resulted in fewer U.S. companies, shipping lines while escalating and concluded that total deregula- rates. Finally, while most of the ti on of maritime will further decimate the U.S. fleet, ultimate- shippers who testified indicated that the antitrust immunity has ly raising rates for all. During the afternoon session, not benefi tted them, one Oberstar proposed a compromise presented an entirely different to resolve differences between view. Don Schilling, vice presishippers and carriers on the '84 dent of Wesco International, Inc., act. He emphasized that steps said that the "Shipping Act of should be taken to ensure that 1984 is not unnecessary regulaforeign governments di vest them- tion. It guarantees, as much as selves of their direct interest in possible, a level playing field for their national fleets .. He a_lso small- and medium-sized exproposed that the antitrust im- porters like us .... "Unless small shippers have munity granted by the Shipping Act of ' 84 be perpetuated except access to the level playing field in service . contracts (which are provided by the Shipping Act, we volume discount agreements). will soon cease to be exporters Ob_ersta: also reco~en~ed that and become domestic suppliers to tanff filmg be continued m order our foreign competition instead." sru?. �l SEAFARERS LOG MARCH1995 7 'The SIU Gave Me a Chance' Dyslexia Did Not Stop Ellis from Excelling at Sea Perry Ellis is 14 years removed from his career as a Sea~ar~r, but has not lost appreciation for the opportunities he discovered through the SIU and the union's Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. "I'm very, very grateful to the SIU. The SIU accepted me, gave me a chance when no one else would, and you bet I took advantage of it," says Ellis, 48, who now works as a reserve police officer in his hometown of Fort Worth, Texas. Ellis' story is one of courage and perseverance. He has severe dyslexia (a learning disability usually characterized by difficulty in learning to read), yet was not correctly diagnosed until in his thirties. That lack of an accurate diagnosis compounded the disability, because, while in school, Ellis was placed in classes with peopje who in many cases had either different disabilities or different degrees of dyslexia. The medical and academic communities' understanding of dyslexia was compara ti v el y limited then, and consequently, Ellis did not receive what would be judged by today's standards as adequate schooling. A New Slant On Oral Exams Retired Seafarer Perry Ellis, who has severe dyslexia, credits the SIU and the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education with giving him an opportunity to have a productive, rewarding career. A key step in Ellis' advancement took place at the Paul Hall Center's Lundeberg School in the early 1970s, when instructors there agreed to orally administer his exams. He passed them all, eventually upgrading to QMED. "I can't say enough about the people at the school and their willingness to help," Ellis notes. "Everyone was so patient with me, even though some of those tests took several hours." When a back injury forced Ellis to retire from the sea, he attended a police academy in Texas as a springboard to a new career. He related his Piney Point experiences to convince academy personnel to orally conduct his police exams-and once again, he passed with outstanding scores. "I believe I'm the only police officer in the state who's ever taken the tests oral1y ," Ellis says. "You should have seen my classmates, taking notes like crazy during some of the lessons. They'd look at me and see I wasn't writing, but I maintained an 'A' average." Moreover, Ellis points out that his days at the Lundebe.rg School helped in other ways when he attended the police academy: "I got college credits for some of the upgrading courses I took at Piney Point, and they were accepted at the academy." "I knew something was wrong with my reading skills, but I felt as intelligent as anyone else," he recalls. "B t I d 't bl on a~e u anyone. Doctors and ~ea~hers m the 1950s and 1960s d1dn t ~ow nearly as mu~h about dyslexia as they do n~w. . After high school, Ellis looked for work but couldn't secure employment. Though frustrated, he was not surprised. "I was always shut out as a kid, and I knew I wasn't going anywhere at home in Fort Worth,"saysEllis,afriendlysort whose wife is a sheriffs deputy. "No one there, and I mean no one, would give me a chance." He heard about the merchant marine and, at age 19, went to San Francisco in hopes of shipping out. There, he signed on with the SIU in what proved to be "a major turning point in my life." It did not take long for Ellis to conclude that he had found his niche. He made a couple trips as a messman, then switched to the engine department. Through a combination of his determination to do a good job, use of an excellent memory and the helpfulness of more seasoned shipmates, Ellis "had no problems" performing shipboard work. "I wasn't afraid to ask for help because most everyone was really patient with me," he notes, adding that he developed a keen memory in compensation for the disability. "I never forget what I've learned, and if I was unsure about something, I asked. I eventually did every (unlicensed) job in the engineroom." ·s went In the early 1970s' Elll to upgrade at the Lundeberg School. It turned out to be the fiust f o many trips to upgrade at Piney Point. "When I went to the school, it opened doors for me that I didn't know were possible," Ellis says. "Piney Point is amazing, and the people who ran the union a long time ago had a lot of foresight. They knew that education and training were important." With the aid of Lundeberg School instructors, Ellis over the years orally took his upgrading exams, and passed them all (see separate story). ~ictured above are photos. d~pict­ mg parts of ~rother Eiits SIU career. s;1oc~1se, trom lower.left: As.hare 1n India, Apnl 19~7. With a shipmate aboard a seahft vessel in Vietnam, 1967. Returning to duty aboard the Equality State during Operation Desert Shield, 1990. As pictured in old editions of the Seafarers LOG. Taking part in a crews conference at Piney Point. Shortened Career Ellis earned his full-book membership in the SIU during the mid-1970s, "and boy, was I proud!" He was comfortable with shipboard life, enjoyed the worldwide travel and the interaction with di verse groups of people, both aboard the vessels and ashore in foreign lands. But in 1981, his sailing career was cut short. While assisting a fellow crewmember who had been injured, Ellis himself sustained a severe back injury which required surgery and still bothers him daily. "I hated to leave the SIU. It was a place where I was accepted and did a good job," he somberly recalls. "More than that, I believed in the United States merchant marine. I sailed during Vietnam, I knew the importance of the U.S.-flag fleet." Though upset, Ellis refused to let the injury deter him from sueceeding at another career. He had learned more from his days with the SIU besides the daily tasks A police reservist today, Ellis remains proud of his days with the Seafarers. Above: Ellis displays his war-service medals and a Lundeberg School certificate of achievement. and routines of shipboard work, and, "In an SIU spirit, I dedicated myself to a new career," he says. He worked for about 10 years in the security field, then attended a police academy near Fort Worth. (In between, he answered his nation's call and sailed as a chief electrician during the Persian Gulf War.) Forthepastseveralyears,Ellis has worked in Fort Worth as a volunteer reserve police officer. His duties include a mix of community service-type activities, security and "regular police work." And despite the title of re~e.rve ~nd t~e nagging back pam, Ellis cames a fireann and ,--------~----------------... Dyslexia ls Common Disability _Developmental dyslexia, the learning disability which afflicts . p Ell. · f . t eds ~ re rr ea1arer erry 1s, 1s arr1y common m the United States. According to the National Institute of Child Health and Human Deve lopmen t, some researc hers suggest th at as many as 15 percent of U.S. students may have dyslexia. The .dis~~ility's c~use is u~ow~, but dyslexia usually causes md1v1duals difficulty m learnmg to read. Some dyslexics also may be hampered in learning to write, speak or utilize numhers. Co~on s~mptoms include reversing letters or numbers, difficul~y m learning and remembering printed words, numerous spelling errors and omitting or inserting words while reading. Because dyslexia affects a wide range of people and also produces symptoms that vary in severity and breadth, treatments are equally complex. But the three general categories of treatment-developmental, corrective and remedial-call upon school teachers and psychologists to identify the disorder and ~en modify both the teaching techniques and the classroom environment. possesses the same rights of power as full-fledged members of the police force. Because of his back problems, "I'm limited in what I can do. But once in a while, something happens and you just can't turn your head; you have to help people whether or not your back hurts." Such an instance occurred when Ellis caught and arrested three thieves at a shopping mall. But he strongly prefers the other parts of his job, particularly working with children. Ellis regul~ly distributes literature and gives talks to kids about the benefits of staying in school and not .u~ing il1:egal drugs. He. also participates m programs to 1dentify and assist abused children. "I want to give something back," says Ellis, apparently unaware of the irony that he would · hi comrmt 'mself to public service after hiscommunity own schoolin system and medical many ways let him down. "I set a goal and I've dedicated myself to the public. It's just a rewarding feeling." Similarly, he says he has helped "five or six" people start seagoing careers. In fact, although he is happy with his new career, Ellis says he "would love to go back to sea some day. I miss shipping, I miss the union, I miss Piney Point. I just love it. ''The people in the SIU were the first who ever said to me, 'Hey, Perry, you can do it!"' �8 SEAFARERS LOG MARCH1995 MTD: Workers Must Gain from Global Trade The AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department (MTD) executive board, representing 42 national and international unions with 8.5 million workers in the maritime sector of the American economy, called upon U.S. elected officials and government trade organizations to assure them that increased world trade advances the interests of working people. The statement, which was adopted unanimously, detailed several steps the administration and Congress can take to ensure that workers benefit from trade accords. The resolution recommends including a section in every · trade pact that sets up mechanisms to balance the living standards and environmental _.-.,,------.....,..---. regulations of the United States with the less strict conditions of the trade partner. The MTD statement's call was ......__ _ _..___..... echoed by Michael Sacco high -1eve1 trade union officials, a representative of the Clinton administration and the minority leader of Congress during the organization's executive board meeting held February 16-17. MTD President Michael Sacco, who also is president of the SIU, pointed out that no group of workers had felt the impact of global trade harder or longer than seamen. Men and women from nations with high living standards who earned their living on ships have seen firsthand the effects of runaway shipping (the ability of ~ shipowners from developed nations to ---~=L-~ purchase the David Cockroft use of a flag of a country other than their own for the purpose of dodging taxes, stringent safety and environmental regulations and the labor costs of their home nations). Fight Downward Push the world's ports. Those inspectors board runaway vessels and ensure that crewmembers are being treated in accordance with international regulations and ITF standards. The ITF general secretary said the ITF campaign against runaway ships will be expanded by placing inspectors in "new areas" to "hit shipowners in places where they least expect it." AFL-CIO SecretaryTreasurer Thomas R. Donahue pointed out that not just maritime .--------.workers, but all American workers, are well aware of the fact that their employers can t ra n s fe r production overseas and Tom Donahue pay foreign empI oyee s significantly less than their U.S. counterparts. American workers "feel the sting" of foreign competition every day, Donahue noted. Every time unions negotiate contracts, "we are told about the cheap corn- The result has been decreased living standards for seamen from developed countries whose ship operators must compete with substandard shipping and a huge pool of mariners from the world's poorest nations who are unmercifully exploited by vessel owners, Sacco noted. David Cockroft, the head of the London-based International Transport Workers Federation (ITF), which is made up of more than 400 trade unions concerned withmaritimeworkersfrommore than 100 countries-including 1 .--------------. the SIU, told the MTD group that his organization is committed, first, to driving runaway-flag shipowners back to their home nations and, second, to forcing substandard ship operators to raise the living conditions and pay of their seamen. Cockroft outlined the ITF' s The AFL-CIO Maritime campaign against runaway ships, also known as flag-of-con- Trades Department (MTD) exvenience vessels. The organiza- ecutive board .---==.,,,. tion places inspectors throughout pledged its support for an initiative introduced by the United M i n e Workers (UMW) to have coal.._~_.....__ __,, removed from Richard Trumka the list of hazardous materials being considered by the UN' s International Maritime Organization, During its two-day gathering last month, the MTD board heard from UMW President Richard NLRB Chairman William Gould has launched a series of initiatives to Trumka who said coal was being encourage collective bargaining. Above, he details his plans to MTD included in the convention not by environmentalists, but by "the executive board members. chemical and natural gas industries Collective bargaining in the legal staff of the United Auto who wish to tap the large volume United States is to be promoted Workers before starting his of coal tonnage shipped on the inaccording to the nation's laws, the employment with the NLRB ternational market to help pay for chairman of the National Labor during the Kennedy administra- the damage to the sea eco-system Relations Board (NLRB) told the tion, stated, "I am a lifelong caused by their products." executive board of the AFL-CIO believer in the collective bargainTrumka noted that coal never Maritime Trades Department ing process." has been listed as a hazardous cargo He listed several procedures on any international treaty or agree(MTD) at its February 17 meethe has initiated since assuming ment because it does not hurt the ing. NLRB head William Gould office after his appointment to environment should it be aboard a said his priority in his job as chair- head the NLRB by President Bill vessel that sinks. man of the independent federal Clinton. Among these actions are If coal were included in the agency that oversees labor rela- speeding up the process of hear- International Convention on tions between employers and ing certain kinds of charges and Liability and Compensation in workers is to seek ways to increasing the instances in which Connection with the Carriage of promote the collective bargaining union elections can be conducted Hazardous and Noxious Substanprocess as called for by the 1935- by mail ballot. Gould dismissed ces at Sea (HNS), a tonnage fee enacted bill that created the claims from some employers that for the amount of coal shipped NLRB and defined American mail-in ballots can lead to fraud. would be assessed. Trumka said He pointed out that in 60 years of such a fee would hurt an industry labor law. The National Labor Relations NLRB-conducted elections, past that provides thousands of jobs Act states that "the policy and mail-ballot elections have been and a $3.1 billion trade surplus to procedure of collective bargain- trouble-free. the U.S. economy. Additionally, Gould said the ing is to be encouraged," Gould The resolution passed by the said. But, "for too long, we have NLRB' s process can be made MTD board urges the Clinton adbeen in a period where the people quicker and more effective by the ministration to take a stand who held [NLRB] positions ... board's speaking "clearly, against the addition of coal as a really had no sympathy with precisely, authoritatively in ad- hazardous material when the vance of a dispute so that we can HNS convention is considered at those ideas." Gould, who worked on the discourage wasteful litigation." an IMO-called meeting in April. NLRB Head Seeks Fairer Rendering of Labor Laws Marine Unions: Exclude Coal From Hazardous Material Pact petition next door or in some other country," he said. The secretary-treasurer of the federation of American unions said it is imperative that any so-called trade agreernents must result in advances for workers, otherwise their effect is to decrease Jack Otero living standards for U.S. workers while workers in developing nations are exploited and abused. Jack Otero, deputy undersecretaryfortheBureauoflnternational Labor Affairs of the Department of Labor, said the goal of the Clinton administration is to ensure that workers' conditions are not eroded through trade deals. "One of my most important tasks at this time is ... to pursue President Clinton's dictum that any kind of trade agreement that we undertake in this country should always be accompanied by an agreement to protect the interests of workers as well as to protect the environment," Otero told the MTD executive board. U.S. Representative Richard A. Gephardt (D-Mo.) renewed his call for trade between the U.S. and other countries that is fair. The House minority leader said, "You can't put~--~--~ workers on an uneven trading relationship. I don't want a trade relationship · with Chile or Brazil or Argentina or anybody else--.--.-.:.......11---~ that doesn't Richard Gephardt deal with labor and the environment in the trade agreement." The Missouri congressman suggested that labor and management work together to find solutions that will allow American workers to compete with cheap labor from third world nations and still allow U.S. citizens to "hold, if not increase, our living standard." Lott Calls for Efforts To Revitalize Maritime Continued from page 3 He remarked that some sort of compromise might be fashioned in which a cap would be put on U.S .-flag carriers' prices in exchange for assuring that a certain percentage of government cargoes is transported on Americanflag bottoms. Shipbuilding Pact Suspect In order to carry American grain, or any other goods for that matter, on U.S.-flag vessels, Lott noted the need for adequate shipbuilding facilities within the nation's borders. He said he would hold subcommittee hearings designed to make sure an international accord (signed by the U.S., the European Union, Japan, South Korea, Norway, Sweden and Finland) designed to end shipbuilding construction subsidies worldwide really will work. The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) pact is set to begin on January 1, 1996, but the senator said he remains concerned about whether the agreement assures American shipbuilders a level playing field. Regulating Shipping "The OECD negotiations that were concluded last year, to me look like once again a fraud," he said. The United States government and shipbuilders have no way of knowing if the other OECD nations are going to live up to the agreement, Lott observed. Plus, the accord allows some governments to subsidize their shipyards for years after the deadline, the Mississippi senator added. After hearings are held on the pact, if his sense is that the agreement is unfair for American shipbuilders, "then I' rn going to support some sort of subsidizing for shipbuilding to put it on equal footing" with its foreign competitors, Lott said. Lott told the MTD executive board that he is willing to look at ways to fine-tune the Shipping Act of 1984, which allows carriers involved in the international ocean-going trade to set rates through conferences, or groups in which all the liner companies participate. "The act has been very helpful. We might want to have hearings on it to see if it can be improved. I think we always should approach it from that standpoint," Lott said. "But I don't think we ought to throw it out." The Shipping Act and the agency which administers the legislation, the Federal Maritime Commission, which ensures that shipping prices are fair for the operator, shipper and American consumer, are under attack by some senators and congressmen eager to trim the federal budget. Time for Action Promoting the maritime industry is about supporting American jobs and America's defense interests, Lott summarized. "When you talk about ships being built in foreign countries, what I see is my neighbor out of a job. "And when I drive over the bridge in my hometown" of Pascaguola "and . . . see Liberian, Panamanian, Greek and Russian ships lined up in my hometown, I don't like it. I want American flags on those ships," Lott said. "I'm committed to doing that." "There is nothing that gives me greater pride than seeing a strong U.S. maritime industry or causes me greater concern than one in decline. "But if we get to the point where we have to depend on foreign-built ships, foreign crews that don't even comply with our rules for safety, and all of our cargo is carried on foreign-flag ships, what are we going to have left? This is a question of national security," Lott emphasized. "So I think we better stand up and fight for it." �MARCH1995 SEAFARERS LOB 9 Diamond Docks at Piney Point Paul Hall Center Adds Vessel to School's Training Fleet ~ The Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education last month continued expanding its training fleet when it acquired a 102-foot craft formerly used by the U.S. Navy as a torpedo retriever • during military exercises. Equipped with a new color radar and a fully functional galley, the USS Diamond will be used extensively in Lundeberg School training courses by upgraders who sail in the deck and steward departments, as well as trainees and engine department up graders. The Diamond also features a new Global Positioning Satellite The USS Diamond is the newest addition to the Paul Hall Center's (GPS) navigation system, two fleet of training vessels. new gyro compass systems (ship- 'i!r:, •••j/ R! CG-Approved Radar Operation Class Praised by ParlicipaUng Boatmen Dozens of SIU boatmen last month seized the chance to take the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education's Coast Guard-approved radar operation course at SIU halls in Algonac, Mich., Norfolk, Va. and San Juan, P.R. The four-hour class, which enables Seafarei:s to comply with new federal regulations regarding radar certification for boatmen, this year has been taught at least once by Lundeberg School instructors at nine SIU halls as well as at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. The course was developed in response to Coast Guard rules which require towboat operators to possess a radar-observer endorsement. It includes a section on how to recognize radar malfunctions, a basic review of how radar works, information about the new regulations, background on changes in accident reporting and a review of the new requirements for safety equipment on Seafarers receive a radar certificate which is valid as an endorsement until his or her operator's license expires or is renewed or upgraded. Not only did Seafarers who recently took the course praise the content of the class, but also commended the Lundeberg School for holding sessions at each of the union's halls. "It was a very good class with a very good teacher," said Mike Slaght, a tugboat captain who sails with Luedtke Engineering. The 21-year member of the union, who took the class at the Algonac hall, added, "I work seasonal and I'm home only for one month. Taking [the class] here was a lot nicer than having to travel during my month off." Captain Ray Wilkins, who first signed on with the SIU in 1957, described the class as "very important. I think everybody should take it, deckhands and all. It wouldn't hurt." Wilkins, who sails with Artowboats. nold Transit Co., took the class in After completing the course, Algonac. In Norfolk, Jim Kruger, who sails as a mate with Express Marine, said the class "covered everything we needed. The most useful part was the tips on tuning [radar] up. The class also tells you a radar's limitations. It's a nice machine, but it's not magic." Kruger lives about an hour's drive from the Norfolk SIU hall. "This certainly was a worthwhile endeavor, and it's a good thing on sel acquired by the Lunde berg School during the past 14 months through the U.S. Defense Regional Material Office in Virginia, under terms of the Merchant Marine Act of 1936 (as amended in 1980). According to that law, "excess or surplus vessels, shipboard equipment and other marine equipment, owned by the United States, may be made available by gift, loan, sale, lease or charter to the federal and state maritime academies and to any nonprofit training institution which has been jointly approved by the Maritime Administration and the U.S. Coast Guard .... " Last year, the school acquired two fairly similar pilot craft formerly used as Navy training boats, along with a well-equipped barge which had been used by the government for electromagnetic testing. the part of the union to provide it to the members," he added. No time was wasted in the class, noted William McBride, a pilot boat operator with Coleman Launch Service. "It was a great class, and the instructor was on the ball, very concise," said McBride, who took the class in Norfolk. ''This opened my eyes to a lot of things about radar." James Pruitt, who sails with Express Marine, said he was fascinated to learn about "radar echoes and what causes them. For instance, when you signal, you get an echo. I also learned other The opening at the bottom of the vessel shows where torpedoes were new things. It's a good course." retrieved when the Diamond was used during military exercises. 25 Lakes Seamen Upgrade ta AB Twenty-five Seafarers who sail aboard Great Lakes vessels last month completed a special three-week AB course at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. The rigorous class, crafted by Lundeberg School instructors to meet the specific needs of SIUcontracted companies, covered lifeboat training, ship construction and operations, deck seamanship, navigation, tug and tow operations, rules of the road, firefighting, first aid and more. The Seafarers who finished the course are employed by one of three companies: Great Lakes Towing, Luedtke Engineering or Upper Lakes Towing. "With shipping shutting down for the winter, this was a good Agency Extends Deadline For Towboat Operators to Get Radar Endorsement Capt. Joe Tucker, Crescent Towing, also took the radar class at the SIU hall in Mobile, Ala. board type and boat type), four V-12/71 Detroit diesel engines and a pair of two-cylinder generators. As used by the Navy, the ship carried a crew of 16 and could carry 16 retrieved torpedoes. It was decommissioned in early February and has a top speed of 15 knots. "It will have many uses for deck department personnel, and the galley also is excellent," noted Lundeberg School instructor Bill Hellwege. "We still need to clean it up, but it should be ready soon." The Diamond has a 21-foot beam, a 9-foot draft and a full displacement of 170 tons. Hellwege, fellow instructors Jeff Swanson and Tommy Swann and QMED Ed Rynberg delivered the vessel from Norfolk, Va. to Piney Point. The boat also is the fourth ves- The U.S. Coast Guard last month announced it is extending the deadline for towboat operators to secure a radar-observer endorsement to June 1. The original deadline was February 15. The extension means that licensed operators and all other pilots of radar-equipped, uninspected towboats which are 26 feet or more in length and which operate on U.S. waterways must possess a radar-observer endorsement by June 1. Mariners who already have a towboat operator's license but no radar endorsement may take a four-hour radar operation course which will result in obtaining a radar certificate that is valid as an endorsement until the mariner's license expires or is renewed or upgraded. Seafarers who have an operator's license but no radar endorsement and who want to talce the four-hour radar operation class should contact their port agent. opportunity for me to come to Piney Point," stated Dan Young, 34, who sails with Upper Lakes Towing. "It's a good class. It refreshed some information and I also learned new things. "The most interesting part was getting to know people from other companies." Young, who works aboard an integrated tug/barge that usually hauls iron ore and stone to points along lakes Superior, Michigan and Erie, also took a four-hour radar operation course and a oneday course to renew his unlimited license while at the Paul Hall Center. ''This really worked out well for me," he noted. Clint Ross, a 20-year Seafarer and employee of Great Lakes Towing, said he was "impressed with the overall setup at Piney Point. The school is a great idea." He rated the special AB course as "difficult, but there were no problems. I learned a lot of new things and more details about others. The lifeboat training and rope-tying were highlights," said Ross, 53. Like Ross and Young, 35- Deckhand Dale Leonard Jr. had taken one other year-old class at the Lundeberg School, approximately two years ago. Leonard, an employee of Luedtke Engineering, said he took the AB course "to better myself as a seaman. I figured it would help." Leonard said he "learned quite a bit of new information. The rules of the road were particularly helpful." Luedtke Engineering is a fullservice marine construction company that operates throughout the Great Lakes Basin and the upper Mississippi River. It is based in Frankfort, Mich. Upper Lakes Towing is based in the town of Escanaba, in the upperpeninsulaofMichigan. The barge and tugboat company transports salt, iron ore, stone and coal between lakes Michigan, Huron and Erie, as well as from Lake Superior to Lake Michigan in the Indiana Harbor. Great Lakes Towing, based in Cleveland, is a harbor towing company that operates in all the major ports throughout the Great Lakes. Twenty-five Seafarers completed a special three-week AB course last month at the Lundeberg School. �10 MARCH1995 SEAFARERS LOG Officer Unions File Suit To Block APL Flag-Out Several deck and engine officers employed by American President Lines (APL) and their unions filed a suit in federal district court seeking to block APL from operating six new containerships under foreign registry. The February 28-submitted lawsuit is similar to the case filed in U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia on January 12 by the SIU Pacific District, made up of the Sailors' Union of the Pacific, Marine Firemen's Union and the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District. Similar to SIU Suit The SIU's suit asks the court to overturn the decision of the Mari time Administration (MarAd) to allow APL to flag-out six C-11 ships due out of the shipyard this year and next. The ships' officers along with the International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots (MM&P) and District No. 1Marine Engineers Beneficial Association (MEBA), have asked the court to nix MarAd's waiver of Section 804(a) of the Merchant Marine Act of 1936, which prohibits an American ship operator receiving operating differential subsidies from the U.S. government, as APL does, from owning or operating foreignregistered ships that compete with American-owned vessels in key trade routes. Unfair Competition The APL ships' officers, MM&P and MEBA contend that MarAd's decision to allow APL to operate the six ships under foreign registry violates the 1936 Act which was established to buttress the nation's defense interests and encourage domestic and international trade through the development of a strong U.S. -flag shipping capability made up of American-owned ships crewed by American seamen. Among the ships on which the officers sail are APL's C-8 class vessels and on one Pacesetter class ship that will be replaced by the company's new ships. Their suit notes that when these ships are retired and the foreign-flag C-1 ls put in their place, the new vessels will compete directly with U.S.-flag carriers that are both subsidized and unsubsidized. In conjunction with the filing of the lawsuit, the maritime unions staged demonstrations outside APL headquarters in Oakland, Calif. and APL offices and facilities in San Pedro, Calif. and Seattle. Hundreds of Seafarers, MM&P and MEBA members, as well as retired seamen, marched and chanted in protest . The lawsuit states that if APL flags-out its new containerships, it will be the first time a U.S. subsidized shipping company has been allowed to operate a fleet that contains both subsidized U.S.-flag ships and foreign-flag vessels on the same trade route. Procedures Violated Additionally, the suit says that APL's application was not considered by the Maritime Subsidy Board at MarAd, a process required by law. At press time, among the MM&P ships' officers serving as plaintiffs are Arthur D. Clifford, master, President Harrison; Fred J. Gloor, master, President Harrison; Robert J. Hannah, chief mate, President Harrison; Joseph Michael, second mate, President F.D. Roosevelt; Richard Nelson, master, President F.D. Roosevelt; Norman Nielsen, chief mate, President Truman; Peter Rolf Ohnstad, chief mate, President Harrison; Richard Oprison, second mate, President Truman; Tomas Pearce, third mate, President F.D. Roosevelt, Walter Reimann, second mate, President Harrison; Paul Senych, third mate, FormerN.O. Port Official Marty Kanoa Diesat68 AMERICAN PRESIDENT LINES UNFAIR TO L~BOR Protesting APL's abandonment of the U.S. flag, hundreds of American seamen demonstrated outside the company's headquarters in Oakland, Calif. At the same time, a lawsuit against APL's flag-out move was being filed in federal court by APL ships' officers and their unions, MM&P and MEBA. The lawsuit is similar to the one filed by SIU Pacific District Unions in January. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ President Truman; Raymond A. tant engineer, President Wood, master, President Roosevelt;MartyPezzaglia,chief Washington; John Monson, engineer, President Harrison and master, President Truman and William Hassler, first assistant, George Wertamn and Keith President Harrison. Lawrence, two MM&P members The Maritime Administration whoshipprimarilyonAPLvessels. next must respond to the ships' MM&P Vice President Pacific officers lawsuit in the U.S. DisPorts Captain Paul H. Nielsen noted trict Court for the Northern Disthat more union members are ex- trict of California, where it was ~te~ to. sign on to ti:ie lawsuit as filed. Similarly, MarAd must file plamtiffs m the upcormng weeks. its reply to the SIU' s suit subMEBA officers signed on to mitted to the federal court in the suit are Bill Braun, first assis- j Washington, D.C. Correction The article in the February 1995 edition of the Seafarers LOG entitled "APL Flag-Out Waiver Violates U.S. Law, Charge SIU Unions" (pages 1 and 9) inaccurately identified American President Lines as the party that must make the next move in response to the lawsuit that was filed by SIU Pacific District Unions. That suit, submitted to the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, challenges the Maritime Administration• s ruling that allows APL to operate six new containerships under foreign flag in competition with the company's U.S.-flag fleet. The article should have identified the next court move as the Maritime Administration's. It is up to the Maritime Administration to respond to the SIU' s suit. Sabine Crews Approve 3-Year Pact Seafarers who sail aboard tugboats and barges operated by Sabine Transportation Company's inland division last month overwhelmingly approved a three-year contract that calls for wage and pension increases and an increase in a special rate of pay for tankermen that kicks in under certain conditions. Voting took place aboard Sabine tugs and barges throughout the Gulf Coast region and in the Midwest. More than 75 mariners are covered by the contract, which expires in 1998. "I think we did pretty well," said Tankerman Ron "Moses" Hawes, who was a member of the negotiating committee. He cited the tankerman pay, the pension increase and the maintenance of travel expense reimbursement as highlights of the pact. "We also got wage reopeners in the second and third years," Hawes noted. The tankerman special pay rate is known as "avoidance pay." This, according to the accord, is paid" ... when a shore tankerman might otherwise be utilized as determined by the company, any off watch tankerman (or engineer holding a tankerman' s endorsement whether on or off watch)" will be paid for a minimum of three hours per call-out "while engaged in cargo transfer operations." Seafarers sail as chief engineers, assistant engineers, tankermen and ordinary seamen aboard Sabine vessels. They transport petrochemicals, including jet fuel, diesel and gasoline, primarily between the Gulf Coast, Florida and the mid-Atlantic states. Sabine is a subsidiary of Houston-based Kirby Corporation. Andromeda Chief Engineer John Ready to vote on the new three-year contract are (from left) Tankerman Donald Tabicoe and OSs Billy Lebleu is one of 75 Sabine boatSanford and Gregory Rideaux. The new pact provides for wage and pension increases. men covered by the new pact. Martin A. Kanoa Martin A. Kanoa, a retired SIU member and port official, died January 4 at South Central Regional Medical Center in Laurel, Miss. He was 68. Born in Hawaii, Kanoa began his sailing career in New Orleans in 1957 as an OS aboard the Claiborne. Other ships on which he sailed in the early '60s were the Alice Brown, Wang Archer, SS Alcoa Roamer, Alcoa Partner and Trans northern. After corning ashore in the mid '60s, Kanoa worked as a doorman in the New Orleans hall. He helped pay off ships and assisted with beefs and organizing drives--duties now associated with those of a port patrolman. Retired SIU Official Buck Stephens remembers Kanoa very well. "I knew him since he first joined the SIU," Stephens said. "He was one of the best. He was well liked by the membership." Another person who knew Brother Kanoa from his days at the hall in New Orleans is the Sailors' Union of the Pacific port agent in that city, Henry Johansen. "Marty always protected the union," Johansen reminisced. "He helped out wherever and whenever he was needed-a real Johnny-on-thespot." A veteran of the U.S. Army during the Korean conflict, and a member of the special forces unit · during WWII, Kanoa retired from the SIU on November 1, 1985. He is survived by his wife of 34 years, Betty Lou; three sons, Martin A. Jr. of Slidell La. and William Paul and Jorge A., both of Laurel; one daughter, Virgine Ann of Honolulu; three brothers; one sister, and two grandchildren. �MARCH1995 SEAFARERS LOG 11 Gear stowage space is given a coat of paint by Wallace Barr, chief mate. Navy1s Torpedo . Recovery Vessels 1 Crews Set Sights On Union Contract Ruben Banrey (left) and Abad Rodriguez and the other technicians and seamen working for Martin Marietta's MOE division last year voted to be represented by the SIU. Elected by his shipmates to the union's negotiating committee, Chief Engineer Peter Torrens (at right) inspects the engineroom. William Evans (right) a marine tech, and Car1os Figueroa ensure the ships' machinery is in tiptop shape. Inspecting the engineroom's equipment on the Hugo is Chief Engineer Faustino Hernandez. Preventive maintenance on the P.R.-based missile recovery boats is a way of life for !?eafarers (from left) David Rivera-Martinez, Thomas , Jones and Ricardo Alvarez. Heavy equipment is transferred to the tor- ~ pedo recovery boat by a shore-based crane, ! operated by Asst. Eng. Roger Figueroa. When it comes to meeting the military's missions, it is business as usual for Seafarers crewing and maintaining the U.S. Navy's torpedo and missile recovery vessels operated by Martin Marietta's Marine Ocean Engineering (MOE) division based at Ceiba, Puerto Rico. But, for these Seafarers, there are some extraordinary activities going on as well. The extraordinary work of the Martin Marietta MOE seamen and maintenance technicians is negotiating a first union contract. Last year, by a vote of 37 to 2 in an election conducted by the impartial government agency, the National Labor Relations Board, the torpedo recovery vessel seamen and technicians chose to be represented by the SIU. Since the election, the Seafarers at Martin Marietta's Ceiba facility, located there because of its proximity of the Navy's Roosevelt Roads base, have prepared their list of contract demands, elected a negotiating committee of four and begun bargaining. Elected by their fellow Seafarers to serve on · the negotiating committee with the SIU' s Puerto Rico-based port agent, Steve Ruiz, are Andy Carrasquillo, Osvaldo Cordero, Richard Rhinehart, William Puhle and Peter Torrens. Among the torpedo recovery vessels operated by the MOE group are the Hugo and the Hunter, both 1,200 deadweight tons with twin screw engines. Deckhands Manuel 0. Roddriguez (left) and David Lopez take advantage of beside-the- dock time to maintain vessel equipment. ~ One of the five rank-an d-f i I e rs serving on the bargaining group, . Second Mate Richard Rhinehart repairs shipboard equipment. �12 SEAFARERS LOG MARCH1995 Matthiesen Maneuvers Through Icy Waters, Delivers Fuel To Antarctic Base EAFARERS aboard the Richard G. Matthiesen crossed two oceans and several seas and struggled to overcome fierce winds and massive ice formations to -111111111• safelydeliverayear's worth of petroleum products to two ports in Antarctica. For the tenth consecutive year, Seafarers crewed an Ocean Shipholding, Inc. tanker representing the United States of America, theU.S. Departmentof Defense and the National Science Foundation (NSF) in the annual petroleum resupply program to Antarctica known as "Operation Deep Freeze." The Matthiesen, currently operating on a long-term charter to the Military Sealift Command (MSC), delivered a total of 202,415 barrels of jet fuel, diesel fuel and gasoline to scientific bases in Antarctica. Calvin A. Bancroft, vice president fleet operations for Ocean Shipholding, Inc., told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG, "Those who sailed with the Matthiesen to Antarctica did an excellent job as they have done in all the years past. It is generally a dangerous mission due to the winds, ice and cold that make up most of the very, very long and desolate voyage." Program Started in 1986 What began as an expeditionary activity for Ocean Shipholding, Inc. using the SIU-crewed Paul Buck in January 1986 has evolved into a permanent annual practice of supporting U.S. scientific interests in the polar region. The resupply operation takes place during the austral summer months in Antarctica while the planning process goes on throughout the year by NSF, MSC and Ocean Shipholding, Inc. As part of Operation Deep Freeze, an SIU-crewed Ocean Shipholding tanker delivers enough petroleum products to keep McMurdo Station in Winter Quarters Bay (located in the Ross Ice Shelf in Antarctica) operating for one full year. The 'Scope of researchatthebaseincludesbiology, human physiology, meteorology, upper atmosphere physics, solid earth geophysics, geology and glaciology. The scienti fie base relies on the petroleum for heating, operating generators and machinery, flying planes and aiding in almost everything having to do with scientific research. Because of the remote location of the base, it is resupplied only once per year. McMurdo Station consists of approximately 110 buildings, graded roads, a power plant and power lines, as well as water supply and waste disposal systerns, a communications system, surface vehicles, a heliport, a doclcing area and a fuel depot. The depot contains 20 storage tanks with a total capacity of eight million gallons of fuel. Six diesel generators provide electrical powerforthestation. A salt-water distillation plant, also diesel fueled, produces fresh water for most station needs. This year the Matthiesen additionally delivered fuel to an Italian research station at Terra Nova Bay in Antarctica, as part of a reciprocal agreement between the U.S. and Italy, bringing the total amount of fuel delivered to The ship departed from Antarctica by the ship to more Greece and headed for Fremantle, than eight-and-a-half million gal- Australia, via the Suez Canal, and lons. arrived there on New Year's Eve. Voyage Preparation It left for McMurdo on January 2. Seafarers boarded the MatThe initial part of the voyage thiesen in St. Theodore, Greece at from Fremantle to McMurdo Stathe beginning of December where tion was fairly smooth. In the the petroleum barrels were master's report, Captain Severin loaded, fresh stores were brought A. Samuelsen stated, "Even on and crewmembers began though we encountered gale preparations for the long journey. winds, we rode comfortably with The steward department, quartering seas nearly the whole headed by Chief Steward David route to the first band of ice." Smith, began planning meals for On January 10, a U.S. Coast the months spanning the voyage Guard ice cutter, the USCG Polar to Antarctica with enough fresh Sea, contacted the Matthiesen stores to last until their return to and provided ice information, inthe United States early this cluding a fax of ice charts. "I was month. contacted by the Polar Sea and "A lot of planning by the gal- informed of her position .... I was The U.S. research station at McMurdo includes ley gang goes into such a long also filled in on the extent of ice buildings and is populated by anywhere from trip," noted Bancroft. "Generally, in McMurdo and surrounding people, depending on the time of year. the department must pre-plan everything for the entire period. . .• • • • • • • • • area. The ice picture was quite from the base. It heavy," wrote the captain. Fresh provisions must be planned that we encoun PACIFIC He explained that the faxed iceberg," recalled very carefully so that they last, charts showed a band of ice exand that is not an easy job for such The Matthiese OCEAN tending well north and east of the with the Polar Se a long sailing time," the Ocean area in which the Matthiesen had with the cutter set Shipholding, Inc. official exto enter in order to get to the for the 32,572 DV plained. scientific base. rest of the icy vo~ Captain Sam PACIFIC Changing Course that for the next OCEAN McMURDO The captain added that it was Matthiesen sailec at this point that the Polar Sea Guard vessel recommended that the ship adjust proximately 300 its course. "A band of pack ice ice. ZEALAND (which is loose and often is "It is very im moved by wind) extended for helmsman ma. McMURDO about 150 miles before open course behind tl water. The fast ice (which is at- ice breaker beca tached to the shore) out of Mc- that is cleared for Murdo on this date was extensive, very extensive," t , I • • •. .• • • • • • reaching approximately 40 miles Shipholding' s Map at left shows the continent of Antarctica, qualified helmsn while the one above provides a closer look at the to be very awar< location of McMurdo Station. night. In additior AB has to be ve11 )j.EW 1 �MARCH1995 The SIU-crewed Matthiesen, aided by U.S. Coast Guard ice cutters, recently delivered a year's worth of crucial petroleum products to scientific bases in Antarctica. location of the ice formations, the channel and the course." By January 17, the ice extending from McMurdo Station had diminished to 25 miles. Still, the captain was notified that the Matthiesen would have to wait approximately five days to allow the Polar Sea and a second Coast Guard cutter, the Polar Star, to clear the way. In a stop-and-go transit, the Polar Sea and Polar Star broke the ice for the Matthiesen, and the tanker refueled the Polar Star as needed. The Polar Sea escorted the Matthiesen into the channel entrance where the vessel notched into the ice to await completion of ice breaking in the channel. Arrival at McMurdo After finally arriving at McMurdo Station on January 24, the Matthiesen offloaded the petroleum while docked against an ice pier. The ice pier, or wharf, is 659 feet long by 459 feet wide and is constructed of ice in Winter Quarters Bay. Supply vessels, such as the Matthiesen, can berth on the wharf for unloading. (Every five to seven years, a large chunk of ice is placed in position near the shore. Using fresh water, it is melted into place. Because the temperatures in this part of Antarctica rarely rise above 40 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer months and can be as . cold as -127 degrees Fahrenheit ered our. first during the winter months, the ice the captam. pier does not need "replenishing" rendezvoused very often.) According to reports by the on January 13, ocleartheway captain, the Matthiesen 's bow T tanker on the was positioned approximately ge. halfway up the pier with the veselsen related sel angled out about 30 degrees. fo.ur days, the At that point, the captain and crew with the Coast positioned the ship into location t~rough ap- by alternately using rudder and les of heavy engines to shift the stern back and forth (in a "wiggling" moortant that the , tion) until the ice between the tain a good dock and ship was loose and Coast Guard started to pull. e the ch~nel The bow stopped at the end of e tanker is not the pier where the pack ice would served Ocean not allow the vessel to move up ncroft. "The any further. The crew kept the on watch has engines half ahead, causing the both day and ice to flow out from between the the radar, the pier and the vessel. ttentive to the ''The engine department has to SEAFARERS LOG 13 ment under the most difficult enexpertly maintain the ship's environmental conditions attests to gines to sustain such work, and your professionalism and outtheir expertise is always apstanding seamanship. Your willpreciated," noted Bancroft. ingness to undertake this most The ship kept up this process difficult mission will allow the in the ice for about half an hour Italian Antarctic program to conwhich allowed 90 percent of the tinue valuable scientific research ice to be evacuated. Once this was next year." completed, the ship maneuvered Also in a telex sent to the ship, .:._'% into position about 15 feet off the ;f Naval Support Force Antarctica pier and prepared to discharge the ,J ,k .x.'. 'U:t Commanding Officer, Captain cargo. The. only way to reach McMurdo Station by ship is to break through Jack B. Rector stated, "You are The Matthiesen had to transfer the fuel to the station's shore the ice that extends from the shore. In photo directly above water commended for your superb per' depth is approximately 200 feet. formance during the refueling of tanks. The cargo hoses were the Italian Antarctic program stahooked up and pumped to shore by members of the deck depart- ahead, we stabilized and kept the the home stretch of "Deep Freeze tion at Terra Nova Bay. Under the best of circumstances, this is a ment, headed by Bosun Harry vessel secured in the notch. We '95." difficult operation. This season, maintained this position during Johns. Crew Congratulated strong winds and dynamic ice When all the cargo had been the night by leaving the engines Numerous industry, military conditions conspired to make the offloaded, SIU members washed ahead throughout," wrote the and company officials com- evolution even more challenging. the empty cargo tanks to prepare captain. mended the captain and crew of Your successful completion of for ballast. Dangerous Winds the Matthiesen for a job well done this operation will pay dividends Sails for Italian Base However, high winds soon delivering the petroleum to the to both the U.S. and Italian AnOnce the ballast was com- forced the Matthiesen to make a Antarctic science stations under tarctic programs and is a direct reflection of your profespleted, the vessel was ready for slightly early exit. During the difficult conditions. NSF Operation Systems sionali s m and outstanding the transit to Terra Nova Bay, the night the winds increased to 20 Italian base. While the ice condi- knots, with gusts to 30 knots. Manager Dr. David Bresnahan seaman ship . Your efforts are tions remained problematic, the Around midnight, the ice was wrote in a telex to the ship, "On greatly appreciated." The Matthiesen was scheduled Matthiesen made the short breaking up in the bay and cracks behalf of the National Science voyage to Terra Nova Bay safely, were developing on the north Foundation's Office of Polar to return to the port of Houston at with the aid of the Coast Guard side, working toward the vessel. Programs, I would like to thank the beginning of this month. In addition to the Matthiesen The ice floe on the port side of the Captain Sa~uelsen and the crew cutters, and arrived February I. and Buck, Ocean Shipholding, Matthiesen (by the manifold) was of the MV Richa.rd G. Matthiesen "The unique difference between McMurdo Station and the working in the swell, and the cap- for the exceptional effort ex- Inc.'s Gus W. Darnell has parItalian base is that Terra Nova tain and crew became concerned pended to refuel the Italian station ticipated in past operations to Bay does not have an ice pier or that the ship would lose position. at Terra Nova Bay, Antarctica. refuel the scientific bases on AnThe winds increased to more Your tremendous accomplish- tarctica. any type of pier for the ship to dock while discharging the than 30 knots and were gusting, causing the ice surrounding the cargo," explained Bancroft. Why Take Fuel to Antarctica? "The Matthiesen has to rely on Matthiesen to break up much Antarctica at first may seem like an undesirable place to take a the ice in the area to wedge into more quickly. ta~ker. But when the task is keeping valuable research operations "The bow sheered to starboard place so that it will not move going year-round, one can understand the importance of delivering while the shoreside personnel and and I put the rudder 15 degrees much-needed petroleum products to the frosty continent. crewmembers arrange the cargo left to hold it steady," recalled the An ice sheet (averaging 2, 160 meters thick) covers all but about 2 hoses across the ice to the Italian captain. percent of Anta_rcti~a·s 14 million square kilometers. Additionally, "The ice was starting to station for discharge of the parts of Antarctica literally are the world's windiest places. crumble around the bow and we petroleum," he stated. But..Antarctica's lo~ation and climate offer exceptional oppor"While ice can cause problems were rapidly losing our hold in tunities to study marine and terrestrial biology biomedicine geolfor large tankers such as the Mat- the ice. I stopped cargo to disconogy, geophysics, glacial geology, meteorology, aeronomy and thiesen, in Terra Nova Bay you nect and depart the area," stated upper .at\llosphe_re i?hysics. Additionally, the dynamics of want the ice. The ice is all that the captain. Antarctica s massive ice sheets are an important piece of the Due to the unexpected halt in will hold the ship in place while global-warming puzzle. discharging cargo. The ship's discharge, the vessel was unable The largest Antarctic research station, M'cMurdo, is built on the biggest enemy is the winds in to empty all the cargo and southernmost ground th~t is reachable via ship. Established nearly Terra Nova Bay which can come departed Terra Nova Bay with ~O years ago, McMurdo includes more than 100 buildings ranging down from the mountains at 847 barrels of petroleum. How1n s1z~ fron:'. ~mall radio shacks to bigger, multi-story structures. speeds of up to 100 knots at sus- ever, the Matthiesen was able to Repair fac1ht1es, dorms, administrative buildings a firehouse tained duration," the shipping of- discharge 5,315 net barrels power plant, wa!er distillation plant, wharf, stor~s. clubs and warehouses .are linked by above-ground water, sewer, telephone ficial explained. "It is these winds which, according to Bancroft, "is and power lines. Of course, McMurdo contains state-of-the-art that have the force to eliminate more than enough to keep the the ship's tenuous position in the Italian base operating for a year or equipment to aid researchers and advance science and technology. ice. It is a very dangerous situa- more." The ship began its transit to The station's population has exceeded 1, 100 during the snow-free tion," he said. summer months; in the winter, that number is reduced to about 250. But during the early stages of New Zealand for bunkers and the Matthiesen' s mission at Terra then on to Houston, thus marking Nova, the vessel encountered no problems. According to Captain Samuelsen, the ship initially was secure in the ice. "A [ice] floe by the manifold acted as our pier, and the hose was repositioned to come over to the vessel at this point. We also used the same floe to place our gangway on," explained the captain in the master's report. "We were secured in position 1 and we commenced discharging operations. The engines were placed on dead slow ahead to hold ~- This photo of the Matthiesen was taken during summertime at McMurdo Station, but, as the ship into position. The wind had shifted, and this was causing ,. shown, snow and ice are year-round com.pan ions at the world's southernmost continent. the vessel to move aft slowly. Once we placed the engines -- �14 MARCH1995 SEAFARERS LOG A Runaway Skips Out on Wages, CS Maeda Praises SAs ITF Wins $5,187 in Al's Back Pay Aboard Global Link The International Transport Workers Federation (ITF) last month obtained more than $5,000 in back wages owed to a Ukrainian able-bodied seaman who had sailed on a runaway-flag vessel. Through the efforts of Spiro V arras, the SIU' s ITF inspector, AB Nicolay Stremetskiy received $5,187.98 in back pay for more than three months' work. Following a disagreement with the vessel's master, the AB left the Cyprus-flag ship Atlantis Two in late 1994 without being paid in accordance with the ITF standard agreement. Instead, he received less than half the amount called for in the contract. He later contacted the ITF while working aboard a different vessel, which was unloading cargo in Newark, N.J. V arras quickly arranged for Stremetskiy to receive his compensation, saved in an escrow account of the ITF secretariat in London. In a way, the delay in paying the AB may have worked to his advantage. After he left the Atlantis Two, "He went back to Ukraine and never received his pay. But if it had been sent through the SA James Alsobrooks Spiro Varras (left), the SIU's ITF inspector, secured more than $5,000 in back pay that was owed to Ukrainian seaman N. Stremetskiy. Ukraine government, he never would have gotten it," explained Varras. "The government would have taken the money." V arras added that the AB "was very happy to collect his back wages, which would represent 25 months' worth of earnings on [Ukraine]-flag ships." Based in London, the ITF strives to improve the working standards and pay levels of crewmembers on runaway-flag ships. The organization represents 400 democratic trade unions in 100 nations representing workers in a variety of transportation-related jobs. SA Hayward Pettway Brandon Dwight Maeda, chief steward aboard the Global Link is very proud of his steward assistants "and would love to show them off," he wrote in a note to the Seafarers LOG. Accompanying the note were photos of the six galley gang members aboard the ship, each from a different region of the country: Monell Liburd of St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; Victor Smith of Philadelphia; Harry Galderia of Honolulu; Hayward Pettway of Mobile; Edward Siu of San Francisco, and James Alsobrooks of Picayune, Miss. The 479-foot vessel, one of Transoceanic Cable Ship Co.' s five cable-laying and repair vessels which operates in behalf of its parent company, AT&T, is home-ported in Baltimore. _........... SAs Monell Liburd, Edward Siu, Harry Galderia and Victor Smith get ready to start another day's work. Keeping the crew well fed is one duty of the steward department, represented here by, from left, Chief Cook Lito G. Acosta, Chief Steward William C. Wroten and GSU Jim Abellano. Sea-Land Pacer Sails Weekly Shuttle It is life in the fast (sea)lane for crewmembers in all departments aboard the SeaLand Pacer. The weekly shuttle run between Pusan, South Korea and Yokohama and Tokyo, Japan means a quick turnaround in each port for the Sea-Land Service ship. The photos appearing here AB Ahmed M. Baabbad (left) and AB were taken by Capt Mike Nel- Darrell E. Peterson wash down the son. ship's deck. Supervising the deck work AB Rodolfo Asopardo (left) mixes paint while AB Russell D. Haynes is Bosun Francisco Munoz. prepares to start the painting process. The first snowstorm of '95 in Baltimore blankets the Global Link. Another Job Well Done Crewmembers aboard the Sea-Land Discovery are able to reap the culinary benefits of meals prepared by Chief Steward Diego Hatch (left) and Chief Cook Jorge Salazar, photographed in the ship's galley while at port in San Juan, P.R. �SEAFARERS LOG MARCH1995 Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea JANUARY 16 - FEBRUARY 15, 1995 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Port 20 New York Philadelphia 1 7 Baltimore Norfolk 8 Mobile 7 New Orleans 20 Jacksonville 20 San Francisco 31 Wilmington 16 21 Seattle Puerto Rico 6 6 Honolulu 23 Houston St. Louis 0 Piney Point 0 0 Algonac 186 Totals Port New York 16 Philadelphia 2 Baltimore 2 6 Norfolk Mobile 8 New Orleans 17 Jacksonville 9 San Francisco 14 Wilmington 12 Seattle 9 Puerto Rico 6 Honolulu 5 12 Houston St. Louis 1 Piney Point 2 Algonac 0 Totals 121 Port 20 New York Philadelphia 3 Baltimore 1 4 Norfolk 9· Mobile New Orleans 6 Jacksonville 18 San Francisco 37 Wilmington 12 Seattle 18 2 Puerto Rico Honolulu 6 Houston 11 St. Louis 1 Piney Point 5 Algonac 0 Totals 153 34 7 12 20 14 26 18 27 18 25 3 19 10 1 2 24 10 0 5 8 3 6 1 5 14 7 4 3 2 256 0 1 2 75 13 1 10 12 11 14 11 19 9 , 6 0 0 1 5 1 4 6 2 5 3 2 7 6 18 10 2 3 0 12 0 0 154 0 39 15 2 3 10 4 11 5 10 8 6 3 11 13 0 3 1 105 1 0 0 2 1 2 1 0 3 1 1 5 1 0 1 0 19 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C DECK DEPARTMENT 2 14 19 1 2 2 1 9 9 12 12 12 0 18 13 1 28 12 11 4 20 0 14 7 16 5 10 1 17 10 0 2 1 8 13 3 17 6 15 2 1 1 4 0 0 l 1 1 43 170 145 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 14 0 8 2 0 1 4 0 2 1 7 5 0 6 17 2 10 15 4 10 9 2 12 6 8 1 3 0 0 11 0 l 7 12 5 3 4 12 13 1 0 0 4 0 1 0 0 0 19 107 97 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 1 7 8 0 1 2 2 0 3 l 4 3 4 0 6 12 1 2 1 8 7 4 0 23 2 5 9 14 3 0 0 4 0 l 1 2 7 0 8 1 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 61 8 90 Trip Reliefs 7 1 5 3 5 10 10 2 10 6 1 6 10 0 1 0 77 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 60 2 5 17 15 37 48 43 36 43 15 7 38 0 0 1 367 53 9 11 25 23 34 39 43 34 39 9 23 45 2 4 2 395 April &May 1995 Membership Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, Inland Waters Piney Point Monday, April 3, May 8 New York Tuesday: April 4, May 9 17 2 5 Philadelphia Wednesday: April 5, May 10 13 Baltimore Thursday: April 6, May 11 3 8 12 10 8 5 9 15 12 0 2 l 122 Norfolk Thursday: April 6, May 11 Jacksonville Thursday: April 6, May 11 Algonac Friday: April 7, May 12 Houston Monday: April 10, May 15 New Orleans Tuesday: April 11, May 16 Mobile Wednesday: April 12, May 17 San Francisco Thursday: April 13, May 18 9 1 0 1 1 6 11 3 4 3 1 8 6 0 0 0 54 33 2 3 9 10 24 20 22 21 20 10 7 15 1 6 0 203 31 2 11 17 18 24 29 31 19 19 7 15 19 1 12 0 255 1 0 1 10 2 5 8 5 7 6 6 12 1 0 0 0 64 Wilmington Monday: April 17, May 22 Seattle Friday: April 21, May 26 San Juan Thursday: April 6, May 11 St.Louis Friday: April 14, May 19 Honolulu Friday: April 14, May 19 Duluth Wednesday: April 12, May 17 Jersey City Wednesday: April 19, May 24 New Bedford Tuesday: April 18, May 23 Each port's meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. 3 0 0 2 4 7 4 9 6 4 1 0 8 0 0 0 48 27 22 2 2 0 5 1 0 3 1 3 8 6 16 14 27 67 18 32 2 11 22 1 7 0 252 2 18 7 8 13 21 9 8 6 19 11 0 4 2 155 5 6 3 4 14 3 0 1 0 54 ENTRY DEPARTMENT Port 84 30 13 0 2 9 5 1 33 New York 5 4 8 1 0 l 0 0 2 3 1 Philadelphia 7 7 0 0 2 0 4 0 4 0 Baltimore 19 19 4 0 2 9 9 7 1 9 Norfolk 2 33 1 0 l 3 11 1 19 Mobile 1 31 37 10 4 8 0 11 23 11 New Orleans 7 26 34 1 2 0 4 5 12 15 Jacksonville 2 26 19 18 3 0 3 9 10 16 San Francisco 11 28 19 13 2 0 7 3 8 11 Wilmington 8 46 16 9 0 1 8 6 17 8 Seattle 6 12 14 6 0 2 0 2 2 9 Puerto Rico 3 118 12 59 14 0 7 1 32 58 Honolulu 3 7 34 6 2 0 6 3 20 3 Houston 5 1 1 0 0 1 l 0 1 1 St. Louis 0 4 43 0 0 0 20 0 3 37 Piney Point 0 2 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 Algonac 0 320 94 471 0 45 32 109 138 246 53 Totals Totals All 560 916 12276 179 437 115 374 271 761 DeJ!artments 513 * ''Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. **"Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. Personals FORMER SHIPMATES OF FRANK ANDREWS Retired Seafarer Frank Andrews, who sailed from 1946 until 1993, would like to correspond with former shipmates. He may be reached at 4315 Pimlico Street, Pascagoula, MS 39581. TAMI HANSON Please contact your friend, Patricia Thompson, at 104 Essex South Drive, Lexington Park, MD 20653. ATHALENE McBRIDE (of Missouri) Sandra and Aaron McBride would like to get in touch with their paternal grandmother or anyone who knows her. Please contact them at 2728 NE 130th St., Seattle, WA 98125. ALEJANDRO RIOS SR. Anyone who knows the whereabouts of Alejandro Rios Sr., please contact his son, Alejandro Rios Jr., at 87-38 112th Street, Queens, NY 11418; or telephone (718) 849-2520. Rios Sr. is last known to have sailed as a cook/baker aboard the Americas in 1964. WWII MERCHANT MARINE VETS Any U.S. merchant marine veterans of World War II living in the Sanford, Fla. area are invited to join the local chapter of the U.S. Merchant Marine Veterans of World War IL For more information, please contact David Eslick at 3780 Branch Avenue, Mt. Dora, FL 32757; or telephone (904) 735-0865. 15 �16 SEAFARERS LOG MARCH1995 Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes Seafarers International Union Directory Michael Sacco President John Fay Secretary-Treasurer Joseph Sacco Executive Vice President Augustin Tellez Vice President Collective Bargaining George McCartney Vice President West Coast Roy A. "Buck" Mercer Vice President Government Services Jack Caffey Vice President Atlantic Coast Byron Kelley Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters DeanCorgey Vice President Gulf Coast HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr. Algonac,~ 48001 (810) 794-4988 BALTIMORE 1216 E. Baltimore St. Baltimore, MD 21202 (410) 327-4900 DULUTH 705 Medical Arts Building Duluth, MN 55802 (218) 722-4110 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St. Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St. Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St. Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JERSEY CITY 99 Montgomery St. Jersey City, NJ 07302 (201)435-9424 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy. Mobile, AL 36605 (334) 478-0916 NEW BEDFORD 48 Union St. New Bedford, MA 02740 (508) ?97-5404 NEW ORLEANS 630 Jackson Ave. New Orleans, LA 70130 (504) 529-7546 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St. Norfolk, VA 23510 {804) 622-1892 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4St. Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75 Piney Point, MD 20674 (30 l) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 2 West Dixie Highway Dania, FL 33004 (305)921-5661 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St. San Francisco, CA 94105 {415) 543-5855 Government Services Division (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 lh Santurce, PR 00907 (809) 721-4033 SEATTLE 2505 First Ave. Seattle, WA 98121 (206)441-1960 ST.LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave. St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave. Wtlmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 JANUARY 16- FEBRUARY 15, 1995 CL-Company/Lakes L-Lakes *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class CL Class L Cl~ NP Port 0 28 3 0 13 1 0 8 3 Algonac 0 16 6 Totals All Departments 0 65 13 Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac Port NP-Non Priority TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP DECK DEPARTMENT 0 1 0 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 0 0 1 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class CL ~ L Class NP 0 39 8 0 20 3 0 12 3 0 37 25 0 108 39 * "Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. ** "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters JANUARY 16 - FEBRUARY 15, 1995 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Cla~ C Region 3 8 0 38 0 1 1 0 10 Totals Region so 3 20 Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast 2 1 15 1 19 0 1 0 0 3 0 0 0 1 3 1 0 2 0 0 1 Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals Region 2 0 10 Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast 0 Totals 4 1 3 1 2 73 7 25 Totals All Departments 2 1 0 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Cl~B Class C DECK DEPARTMENT 2 0 0 2 1 3 0 0 0 30 2 6 34 3 9 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 5 0 0 6 0 0 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 42 3 9 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Cla~ C 20 6 42 5 2 3 0 9 0 14 0 43 73 14 57 1 0 3 0 2 1 1 1 0 0 26 2 2 1 6 0 2 0 1 10 3 6 7 109 19 68 22 1 1 4 0 1 0 * "Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. ** "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. -IU BULLETIN BOARD PAY VOUCHERS NEEDED WITH SOME VACATION APPLICATIONS Seafarers sailing aboard the following vessels must provide copies of their pay vouchers when filing for vacation benefits related to employment. American Overseas Cape Washington Capeluby Cape Johnson Cape John Cape Jacob Cape Lambert Cape Lobos Cape Wrath Wright Curtiss Apex Marine Corp. International Marine Carriers, Inc. Cape Farewell Cape Flattery Cape Florida Keystone State Gem State Grand Canyon State Cape Fear Green Mountain State Interocean Management Corp. Gopher State Flickertail State Comhusker State Diamond State Equality State Bay Ship Management, Inc. OMICorp. Mt. Washington Cape Mendocino Petersburg Cape May American Osprey Cape Mohican Potomac Cape Race Chesapeake Cape Ray Cape Rise Cape Trinity Cape Taylor Cape Texas & PORTUPCOMING rfi ARTHUR, TEXAS MEMBERSHIP MEETINGS A general informational Seafarers membership meeting will be held on Wednesday,April5, 1995at2:00p.m. It will take place at the Ramada Inn on Highway 87 in Port Arthur. Contact the Houston SIU hall for further information. ~ UPDATEYOURADDRESS In order to ensure that active SIU members and pensioners receive a copy of the Seafarers LOG each month-as well as other important mail such as W-2 forms, pension and welfare checks and bulletins or notices-a correct home address must be on file with the union. If you have moved recently and have not yet notified the union, go to your nearest union hall and fill out a change of address form or send your new address (along with your name, book number and social security number) to: Address Control, Seafarers International Union, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. <fl �SEFARERS LOG MARCH1995 T he growing ranks of SIU pensioners has been increased by 16 Seafarers who have ended their careers as professional mariners. Thirteen of the union brothers signing off this month shipped in the deep sea division and three sailed the inland waterways. Ten of the retiring Seafarers served in the U.S. military four in the Army, three in the Navy, and one each in the Coast Guard, Air Force and Marine Corps. Seven of those beginning their shoreside years attended recertification courses at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. Carlos ff. Canales, Willis N. Gregory, William R. Kleimola, John B. Lundborg and Aubrey Waters completed the bosun recertification course. Crisanto M. Modellas and Jack R. Utz graduated from the steward recertification course. Of all the Seafarers signing off this month, Brother Utz sailed the longest, having joined the union in 1948 in the port of Baltimore. On this page, the LOG presents brief biographical accounts and the seagoing activities of this month's pensioners. DEEP SEA CARLOS ; ff. : CANALES, ~;;;;;;;;;;;:=-.;;:;:::==;;:;;-.=;;;;;i, ' 57, signed on with the Seafarers in 1955 in the port of New ~======i Orleans. He sailed in the deck department, working his way up to bosun. Brother Canales graduated from the recertified bosun course at at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. in 1992. A native of Texas, Brother Canales currently resides in Florida. GEORGE W.DAVIS, 64,began sailing with the SIU in 1960 from the port of New Orleans. Brother Davis shipped in the steward department and upgraded his skills at the Lundeberg School. Born in Mississippi, Brother Davis currently resides in Louisiana. fr~liii~I MICHAEL M. ENDRES, 63,joined the union in 1956 in the port of Baltimore. '------====-.:=c_-' Brother Endres sailed as a member of the steward department. He served in the U.S. Army from 1953 to 1955. Born and raised in Maryland, Brother Endres has retired to his home state. To Our New Pensioners • • • Thanks for a Job Well Done Each month in the Seafarers LOG, the names of SIU members who recently have become pensioners appear with a brief biographical sketch. These men and women have served the maritime industry well, and the SIU and all their union brothers and sisters wish them happiness and health in the days ahead. CHARLES J.GALLAGffER, 66, was born in New Jersey. He began sailing with the SIU in 1967 from the port of New York. Brother Gallagher shipped in the engine department and later upgraded to QMED. He also sailed as chief electrician. Brother Gallagher attended the Lundeberg School regularly for additional training and upgrading. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1945 to 1965. Brother Gallagher has retired to New Jersey. ~iiijijiWiiiiir"1J· WILLIS GREGORY, 62, signed on with the union in 1957 in the port of New York. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Gregory graduated from the bosun recertification program at the Lundeberg School in 1982. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1949 to 1953. Born and raised in Virginia, Brother Gregory continues to live there. WILLIAM R. KLEIMOLA,68, tion course at the Lundeberg School in 1980. A World War II veteran, he served in the U.S. Army from 1942 to 1946. Born in the Philippines, Brother Modellas has retired to Seattle, which he calls his second home. FRANKP. PAPPONE, 65, a native of Massachusetts, joined the union in . , 1969 in the 4 1 ' rn ~ port of St. Louis. Brother Pappone sailed in the steward department. He served in the U.S. Anny from 1949 to 1952. Brother Pappone makes his home in California. DERRELL G.REYNOLDS, 64, signed on with the Seafarers in 1970 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Brother Reynolds sailed in the steward department. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1949 to 1953. A native of Mississippi, Brother Reynolds currently resides in Alabama. RAMON TORRES SOTO, began his sailing career with the Seafarers in 1952 from the port of Baltimore, shipping as a member of the deck department. Brother Kleimola completed the bosun recertification course in 1973 at the Lundeberg School. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1944 to 1946. Born in Michigan, Brother Kleimola now resides in California. JOffNB. LUNDBORG,61, signed on with the Seafarers in 1963 in the port of New =======York. Lundborg, who was born in Sweden, sailed in the deck department. He graduated from the bosun recertification course at the Lundeberg School in 1981. Brother Lundborg now lives in Washington state. 64, a native of Puerto Rico, joined the SIU in the port of New York in 1968. He sailed in the engine department and upgraded to QMEDat the Lundeberg School. Brother Soto has retired · to his native L---~_.;;;:_.;.=--' Puerto Rico. JACKR. UTZ,65, began sailing with the union in 1948 from the port of Baltimore. He shipped in the steward department. Brother Utz upgraded four times at the Lundeberg School and completed the steward recertification course there in 1980. He also is a 1978 recipient of a Seafarers scholarship, which he used to earn a bachelor's degree. The steward was known aboard ship for the newsletters he wrote and produced. Born in Maryland, Brother Utz presently lives in Washington state. AUBREY L. WATERS, 66, born in Alabama, joined the Seafarers in 1965 in the port of Seattle. Sailing as a member of the deck department, Brother Waters graduated from the bosun recertification course at the Lundeberg School in 1975. He served in the U.S. Coast Guard from 1948 to 1950. Brother Waters has retired to his native state of Alabama. INLAND EDWARD FORTNER, 61,joined the union in 1956 in the port of New Orleans. Boatman Fortner served in many deck department ratings, including tankerman. He last sailed as a pilot. Boatman Fortner served in the U.S. Air Force from 1945 to 1948. Born in Mississippi, he now resides in Louisiana. BERTV. KAISER, 62, began sailing with the \ Seafarers in ~\ 1967 from the port of Detroit. Born in Wisconsin, he started working in the Great Lakes division and later transferred to inland vessels as a member of the deck department. Boatman Kaiser presently lives in Michigan. RAYMOND J.PITRE, 64, signed on with the SIU in 1958 in the port of New Orleans. Boatman Pitre last sailed as a captain. He served in the Marine Corps from 1947 to 1949. Born and raised in Louisiana, Boatman Pitre continues to live there. Schola rship Application Dea dline, April 15, Is Just Around the Corner April 15 is the deadline for mailing applications for one of seven scholarships being awarded in 1995 by the Seafarers Welfare Plan to help qualified Seafarers, their spouses and dependent children finance a college-level education. As in past years, four of the scholarships are set aside for the children and spouses of Seafarers. Each of these four stipends is for $15,000 to be used at a four-year college or university. The other three scholarships are for Seafarers themselves. One of the awards is for $15,000 for use at a four-year institution of higher learning. The remaining two scholarships amount to $6,000 each and may be used for study at a community college or vocational school. April 15 is fast approaching, but with a little organization, there is still time to collect the necessary information and send in a completed application package. First, an application form is required. The booklet containing this form may be obtained from any SIU hall or by filling out the coupon below and returning it to the Seafarers Welfare Plan. Eligibility requirements are spelled out in the booklet. The application form, itself, is easy enough to fill out. But the entire application package includes a number of additional items which must accompany the form. They include: • autobiographical statement, · • photograph, • certified copy of birth certificate, • high school transcript and certification of graduation or official copy of high school equivalency scores, • college transcript, • letters of reference and • SAT or ACT results. With the cost of a college education rising each year, the Sill scholarship is one Sill benefit that can help members and their families realize their educational goals. But no one can be awarded a scholarship without filling out an application and mailing it to the Seafarers Welfare Plan by April 15. r----------------------------------------------1 P lease send me the 1995 SIU Scholarship Program booklet which contains eligibility information, procedures for applying and the application form. CRISANTO M.MODELLAS,69, joined the SIU in 1964 in the port of Seattle. Brother Modellas shipped in both the engine and steward departments and completed the steward recertifica- City, State, Zip Code - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Telephone Number _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ This application is for: D Self D 17 Dependent Mail this completed form to Scholarship Program, Seafarers Welfare Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. 3195 ----------------------------------------------~ �- 18 SEAFARERS LOG MARCH1995 Digest of Ships Meetings The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships minutes first are reviewed by the union's contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. RANGER (Vulcan Carriers), September 25-Chairman Larry McCants, Secretary Chih-Hua Chang, Deck Delegate Phillip Des Marteau, Engine Delegate Alex Resendez III, Steward Delegate Tookie Davalie. Chairman announced repair of refrigerated boxes and receipt of new VCR and couch for crew lounge. Educational director urged members to attend upgrading courses at Lundeberg School at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman reminded crew to check z-card renewal date because without renewed card, member will not be allowed to ship. Crew discussed where to put new dryer. Chairman encouraged crew to send photographs of members aboard ship to the Seafarers LOG. RANGER (Vulcan Carriers), October 2-Chairman Larry Mccants, Secretary Chih-Hua Chang, Educational Director H. Smith Jr., Engine Delegate Alex Resendez Ill, Steward Delegate Tookie Davalie. Crewmembers' photographs to be taken for shore passes. Educational director reminded crew of importance of upgrading at Piney Point. Treasurer announced movie fund being set up to purchase videotapes. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed placing floor mats at house entrances and exits. Bosun requested crew return videotapes after viewing. He also reminded crew to separate plastic from regular trash. Ship heading to Argentina. - LNG ARIES (ETC), November 27-Chairman John P. Davis, Secretary Doyle Cornelius, Educational Director Jose A. Quinones, Deck Delegate George M. Silalahi, Engine Delegate Dasril Panko, Steward Delegate Arlene Ringler. Chairman reminded crewmembers of no smoking policy in crew lounge. Educational director urged members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer reported $437 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT. Crew gave vote of thanks to steward department for job well done. OVERSEAS HARRIETTE (Maritime Overseas), November 27Chairman Daniel Laitinen, Secretary George Quinn, Educational Director David Dunklin, Deck Delegate Donnie Mccawley, Engine Delegate Donald Volluz, Steward Delegate Miguel Aguilar. Chairman thanked crew for smooth trip to Guatemala. He reported ship returning to New Orleans for payoff on morning of December 3, then loading for trip to Beira, Mozambique. Secretary thanked crew for help separating plastics from other refuse. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade at Lundeberg School. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked galley gang for excellent Thanksgiving Day meal. Next port: New Orleans. OVERSEAS OHIO (Maritime Overseas), November 28-Chairman Walter Weaver, Secretary Earl Gray Sr., Educational Director Glenn Henderson, Deck Delegate Paul Adams, Engine Delegate Karl Benes, Steward Delegate Musa Ahmed. Chairman praised crew for excellent work keeping vessel safe while in Valdez, Alaska when decks were covered with three inches of snow and temperatures were below freezing. He asked crewmembers to keep up good work and wished everyone a belated happy Thanksgiving. Secretary thanked members for keeping plastic items separated from regular trash, thereby saving galley gang members unnecessary work. He also advised members to upgrade at Piney Point. Educational director reminded crew of course offerings at Paul Hall Center which will be re- quired of all Seafarers sailing on tankers and urged them to attend as soon as possible. Engine delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck or steward delegates. Crew extended special vote of thanks to Captain Moore for acquiring lobsters for Thanksgiving meal. Crew gave special thanks to steward department for job well done preparing great meals, especially during holidays. Crew observed moment of silence in memory of deceased SIU members. Next port: Valdez. OVERSEAS WASHINGTON (Maritime Overseas), November 29Chairman Tim Koebel, Secretary Robert Miller, Educational Director Kevin Wray, Steward Delegate Charles Atkins. Chairman announced patrolman to come aboard ship in Corpus Christi, Texas and reminded crewmembers departing ship to leave key and clean room. He reported ship charter extended to April 1995. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked galley gang for great Thanksgiving Day menu. Next port: St. James, La. RICHARD G. MA TTH/ESEN (Ocean Shipholding), November 13Chairman James T. Martin, Secretary Lovell McElroy, Educational Director Ronnie Day, Deck Delegate Dana Naze, Engine Delegate Gilbert Tedder, Steward Delegate Mohamed R. Quarish. Treasurer reported $940 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman read letter from headquarters stating all tanker workers must take safety course at Piney Point in 1995. Bosun reminded crew to use copy of vacation pay return for verification when filing for unemployment. Vessel en route to France. HIGHLIGHTS Liberty Spirit-Crew believes record U.S. grain harvest means lots of 1995 voyages for ship. LNG Aries-Members urged to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. Overseas Ohio -Crew praised for keeping vessel safe during snow and ice conditions. Sea-Land Independence -Galley gang thanked for excellent holiday decorations and meals. SEA-LAND EXPLORER (SeaLand Service), November 20---Chairman Jack Kingsley, Secretary William Burdette, Educational Director Guy Pollard-Lowsley, Engine Delegate Arthur Shaw, Steward Delegate Carlito Navarro. Chairman reported smooth trip with payoff scheduled upon arrival in Long Beach, Calif. No beefs or disputed OT reported. SEA-LAND EXPRESS (Sea-Land Service), November27-Chairman Ernest Duhon, Secretary Joe Johnson, Educational Director Michael Powell, Deck Delegate Dennis Brown, Engine Delegate Richard Surrick, Steward Delegate Mike Bubak.er. Chairman thanked steward department for excellent Thanksgiving Day dinner. Educational director stressed importance of upgrading at Lundeberg School. Deck delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegates. Crew thanked galley gang for fine job. SEA-LAND LIBERATOR (SeaLand Service), November 27-Chairman Teodulfo Alanano, Secretary G.F. Thomas, Educational Director Elwyn Ford. Educational director urged members to take advantage of upgrading opportunities at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. SEA-LAND PRODUCER (SeaLand Service), November 28-Chairman Jack Edwards, Secretary Donna Jean Clemons, Educational Director James Smitko, Deck Delegate Chris Taylor, Engine Delegate Louie Diaz, Steward Delegate Susano Cortez. Chairman announced arrival in Oak.land, Calif. and departure for Long Beach, Calif. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman asked crew to return videotapes on time so others can enjoy them. GOLDEN MONARCH (Apex Marine), December 2-Chairman J.C. Dilla, Secretary William Williams, Engine Delegate Guadalupe Garza. Chairman announced arrival in Philippines. Secretary advised members to be safe in port of Manila and on the job. Treasurer announced $1,200 in ship's fund. Deck delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegates. Crew discussed using portion of ship's fund for purchase of entertainment equipment for crew lounge. Chairman stressed caution when performing all job duties and urged members to read safety manual located in crew lounge. /TB JACKSONVILLE (Sheridan Transportation), December 27Chairman George Diefenbach, Secretary Ray Crawford, Deck Delegate Brian Bush, Engine Delegate Carlos Bonefont, Steward Delegate Greg Crawford. Deck department thanked bosun for his organized approach to work and good humor. Crew thanked galley gang for top-notch holiday meals. LIBERTY SPIRIT (Liberty Maritime), December I I-Chairman Terry Cowans, Secretary Ronald Malozi, Educational Director G. Valerio, Deck DelegateJ. Favero, Engine Delegate Robert Walker, Steward Delegate P. Carter. Chairman announced room inspection upon arrival in next port. He reminded deck department members to wear necessary safety gear while working on deck during cargo operations. Secretary asked crew to bring soiled linen to linen locker for cleaning. He reminded crew to leave rooms neat before signing off ship. Educational director urged members to upgrade at Lundeberg School. He noted availability of a bus from Piney Point to Leonardtown, Md. once a week for shopping while attending school. Deck delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegates. Crew extended special vote of thanks to Chief Cook Rudy Xatruch for excellent food . Crew also thanked Chief Steward Malozi for variety in menus. Crew discussed record harvest of grain in United States in 1994. Shipping will continue to be good for the Liberty Spirit into 1995, crew believes, since it delivers U.S. grain to ports worldwide. Cleaning of shipboard tanks gone over by crew. Next port: Beaumont, Texas. LIBERTY WA VE (Liberty Maritime), December 4-Chairman Pat Baker, Secretary Glenn Bertrand. Engine Delegate Gene Wheelis. Secretary noted good voyage to Russia. Deck and engine delegates reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine delegate. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang for fine Thanksgiving Day dinner. NEDLLOYD HOLLAND (SeaLand Service), December 25-Chairman Jerry Bass, Secretary Mark Flores, Educational Director John Ashley, Deck Delegate Joseph Lisenby. Secretary recommended crewmembers go to Paul Hall Center to upgrade their skills. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew extended vote of thanks to galley gang for special Christmas meals. OM/ DYNACHEM (OMI Corp.), December 11-Chairman Michael Simpson, Secretary Steven Wagner, Deck Delegate Amante Gumiran, Engine Delegate Hassin Asumari, Steward Delegate Tom Kreis. Chairman announced payoff upon arrival in Baton Rouge, La. He reminded crewmembers to work safely and notify him or chief mate if safety hazards are discovered. Secretary asked members to sign crew list. Educational director urged members with required sea time to upgrade skills at Lundeberg School. He advised crew U.S. merchant marine is getting smaller and Seafarers must stay well-trained. Deck delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or Lopez, Steward Delegate Joaquin Martinez. Crew thanked steward department for job well done on holiday preparations and for time and effort expended in helping create festive Christmas at sea. SEA-LAND CONSUMER (SeaLand Services), December 18Chairman Francis Adams, Secretary Ray Garcia, Educational Director Ewald Fahie, Deck Delegate Frank Cammuso, Engine Delegate Michael Viegel, Steward Delegate Arthur Edwards. Chairman encouraged members to write congressional representatives, encouraging them to pass a maritime program in 1995. He reminded crew to check zcards for renewal dates. Secretary wished everyone a happy holiday season. He advised members to read the Sea/are rs LOG and check new Lundeberg School schedule for Bon Appetit - ~ !S\ry] Deck department members aboard the USNS Sealift Pacific enjoy a hearty lunch prepared by the ship's galley gang following arrival in Aruba. From the left are Bosun David Zurek, OS Joseph Canell, Pumpman Jason Etnoyer and AB Roy Mitchell. disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegates. Crew discussed getting flu shots at time of annual physical. All aboard Dynachem wish SIU brothers and sisters Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Crew thanked steward department for job well done. OVERSEAS WASHINGTON (Maritime Overseas), December 11Chairman Tim Koebel, Secretary Robert Miller, Educational Director Kevin Wray . Crew thanked galley gang for preparing great food for barbecue. Crew wished departing captain luck on his next ship. Chairman asked crewmembers to observe shipboard smoking rules and empty ashtrays in crew lounge and mess halls. He asked tho e signing off vessel to turn in keys and clean rooms. Next port: St. James, La. SEA-LAND INDEPENDENCE (Sea-Land Service), December 2Chairman Bill Kleimola, Secretary Nancy Heyden, Educational Director Daniel Dean, Deck Delegate George Fries, Steward Delegate Amanda Suncin. Chairman reported crewmembers working very hard to ensure smooth trip. Educational director reminded crew to upgrade at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman noted importance of crewmembers helping keep crew lounge clean. Crew gave vote of thanks to steward department. Next port: Yokohama, Japan. SEA-LAND INDEPENDENCE (Sea-Land Service), December 24-Chairman BilJ Kleimola, Secretary Nancy Heyden, Educational Director Daniel Dean, Deck Delegate George Fries, Engine Delegate Angelo Dunklin, Steward Delegate Amanda Suncin. Chairman noted recent bad weather and thanked crewmembers for extra effort during this time. Educational director advised crewmembers of importance of upgrading at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked galley gang for excellent Thanksgiving and Christmas decorations and superb holiday meals. Steward department thanked engine department for galley repairs and noted ironing board also needs fixing. Steward delegate asked crewmembers to assist in keeping crew lounge clean. Crew wished all SIU brothers and sisters Happy Holidays. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. OVERSEAS VALDEZ (Maritime Overseas), December31-Chairman Roberto Zepeda, Secretary Tyler Laffitte, Deck Delegate Anthony Garcia, Engine Delegate Andrew upgrading opportunities. Engine delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck or steward delegates. Bosun thanked crew for good trip and noted expected receipt of new mattresses for crew. He advised crew members to secure exercise equipment for safe use. Crew gave thanks to steward department for outstanding food and cookouts. Next port: Oakland, Calif. SEA-LAND HAWAII (Sea-Land Service), December27-Chairman Robert Pagan, Secretary Don Spangler, Educational Director Rick Cavender, Deck Delegate Bruce Holloway, Steward Delegate Glenn Taan. Chairman praised crew and voyage. He noted organization of movie library and asked crew to help keep videotapes in order. Bosun asked crew to keep plastic waste separate from regular refuse. He thanked steward department for fine holiday meals. Educational director stressed importance of upgrading skills at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward delegate reminded crew to return dirty silverware and china to galley after use and to keep crew laundry room clean by keeping greasy clothes in machine marked "Dirty and greasy clothes only." Next port: Oak.land, Calif. SEA-LAND MOTIVATOR (SeaLand Service), December 25-Chairman Howard Knox, Secretary Joseph Speller, Educational Director David Dukehart, Deck Delegate I. Dixon, Engine Delegate Terry Mouton, Steward Delegate Nelson Morales. Chairman announced payoff in Rotterdam. Educational director reminded members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. SEA-LAND PRODUCER (SeaLand Service), December 26-Chairman Jack Edwards, Secretary Cassie Tourere, Educational Director James Smitko, Deck Delegate Chris Taylor, Engine Delegate Louie Diaz, Steward Delegate Mohamed Omar. Chairman reminded crewmembers to return videos after viewing and announced estimated time of arrival in Oakland, Calif. Secretary thanked crew for helping keep ship clean. Educational director advised members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer reported $55 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported aboard ship. Crew requested new pillowcases; they also thanked galley gang for good holiday meals. Crewmembers noted Christmas photos sent to Seafarers WG and wished all SIU brothers and sisters Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. �MARCH1995 SEAFARERS LOG phottos Three Seafarers' wedding ceremonies highlight this month's Seafarers LOG family album. Also on display are proud SIU parents and their children, as well as a member's successful fishing venture. As always, the LOG welcomes photographs from Seafarers and their families and will publish them on a periodic basis. 19 �- 20 SEAFARERS LOG MARCH1995 whether it be an engine, deck or steward department job. I can't ever remember not wanting to learn anything. And a crewmember was always there to help me. I've also passed on the knowledge of what I learned to others, and upon read- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - ing of their upgrading to the point of a _____b_y_W_a_l_te_r_K_ar_lak _ _ _ _- - ! license, it makes me feel good ... In many issues of the LOG, members Editor's Note: Brother Karlak began were asked to write their senators and sailing with the SIU in 1951. He retired congressmen concerning important isin 1987, having attained the rating of sues for the merchant marine. Well, I chief electrician. finally did so, after putting it off so many times. The address I was given I look forward each month to receivwas in New York. I thought it would not ing the LOG to bring me up to date on reach the senator since he's in the maritime news, along with the Washington, and would be read only by union's latest events. Nowhere can this his aides. news be found in the area papers ... I sure was wrong, as the enclosed letWhat is found in these papers are killter [from New York Senator Daniel ings, sex, scandals, etc.-which are Patrick Moynihan] indicates. It shows never found in the LOG. that letters are answered by VIPs and it's What is reported in the LOG is how not a waste of time in writing ... I've everyone helps in times of emergency written to New York Mayor Giuliani while at sea, no matter who is in need of also and have received a reply. help. There's no turning back because So, members, express your thoughts to the crewmembers in need are of a difyour VIPs. If I can do it, why can't you? ferent color, union, country, etc. The My Thoughts On Training And Education can1 The creative works of SIU pensioners and their thoughts wllt appear from time to time In the Seafarers LOG. The newspaper welcomes submissions from · retired Seafarers and their families. . Articles, letters, drawings, photos and cartoons maybe sent to the LOG for publication. need is there. And everyone helps. This must be the code of the sea and should be applied to all humans ~CniMt .$'4fes .5>enQfe •A.9ff•HGTUH, o .c. . . . anywhere in the world .... December 30, 199 , I'm always amazed at all the upgradWalter Karlalt o. 62nd St. ing courses for the members. This was Si.De, Hew forJt 11377 A very happy retirement it has been unbelievable in my time of being a mem- Hr. KarJaJt: for me, thanks to the pension check that ber. There were some which I failed to I do thank you for arrives so promptly every month. I can take advantage of, believing I'd take it lerc:hant Mariners Fat~~!!~t!ng me regarding H R • • c:t Of 1993. hear the sea from where I am writing As you may know z the next month, always taking for Marine. I was' a c:~m a strong support r of t this, but it is no longer calling, "Back to granted that the courses would be avail1~. bills prohibit . -spon~o~ of both s. 2031 he hng the Un i ted 1ng add1t1onal fees for . ~nd work! Back to work!" Now it has a mel- able. Well, the courses were and still are, :o a supporter o~t!tes Herc;:h~nt Marine Aca~1tize1 7! that would e:rrten;1;~ sb11111la~ to H.R . "e11y. lower chant, "Take it easy! Take it 1n World war II e enetits of Ha · • but in waiting all that time, I've gotten to the Herc:hant •.. _ T~h legislation has r~eneers w~ _ _ _ _b_y_C-har-le_s_A_._B_o_rtz _ _ _ _ _ 1 easy!" Thanks to my fellow Seafarers ..... rine Subco111m · t n reold enough to retire, and I still regret not cteeam ~otc o:merce, Science. and T:a!!e of the Sena taking the courses. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - i who are still toiling on the deep, that is · action is !:~~ted"'th1;1nderat11ndinrf!a;~~·n°f is year. o just what I intend to do. So, to all the members who are putEditor's Note: Writing from Pondicher'! s H~rchant Marine is clearl . tic;: and international y important in UpholC When this latest composition (see ting off the schooling, don't do as I did. n•t1on11~ defense. Be commerce• •nd in providi ry, a seaport in India, Charles A. Bortz, r your views on thes . assured that I will al below) burst from my typewriter, I cast Take it NOW. e irnportant issues way a retired Sea/arer who first began sail1ppreciate youi: i • I was fortunate in sailing with very 1 ing with the SIU in the early 1950sfrom around for who to send it to. I thought •;s!!:;:r t~t c:~~!:~I:~!'fn ~h;h;~c:!c~~ • thf!e~;· of my nephews and my sisters-still good members who gave me on-the-job the port of Baltimore, shares his puffing away. And then I thought of all training. These guys spent many hours Sincerely, thoughts on an activity he associates the shipmates with whom I had shared teaching me and, at times, using their with his days at sea. this now sinful habit. And, of course, I own time, which to this date I apD«nieJ Patric:lt "-'. thought of the LOG which has always preciate. I'd ship on an Isthmian ship A..}nu1an Four years have passed since I esbeen our link. going around the world, with someone caped from the Overseas Alice in the Elected officials listen to their voters. That's Smooth sailing! always wanting to teach me, and in three what Brother Karlak found when he wrote Gulf of Oman and fled into retirement. to four months I'd know something new, to his senator. Looking Back On the Days of A 'Sinful Habit' 0 111 '\.Q/L.o . The Last Cigarette by Charles A. Bortz Goodbye, old friend. They say that you are bad for me, that if we go on this way, you will be the death of me. What I shall do without you, I don't know. You have always been there, the first one to reach for in moments of anger and pain, in moments of loneliness. What quiet, splendid times we spent together-leaning over a stone bridge to watch the clear water swirl beneath, or back to an ancient, gnarled oak watching the little birds flitting through the branches above. And not only the good times, the bad times as well-especially, the bad times; crouched in a frozen hole in the ground while red tracers snarled above, sheltered in the curve of a bulkhead while the bitter gale wind tried to tear us apart, hiddenhiding under the sheets waiting for the surgeon's knife. You were comfort and consolation. IN MY DREAMS WALTEA KARLAK Pti,WECiOTO PufRTO RICO ANDBAtK. YOU OON'T NEED AU. 1MISGEAfl/ ~ What do they know of such moments, this smug generation of the environmentally pure? What do they know of frozen foxholes, or rainwater soaking through cardboard soles? They say-smirking-you are bad for me. It wasn't always so. When we were young, we could go anywhere together-proudly, openly. The great statesmen of our time shared our passion as did the glittering Hollywood stars, the renowned artists, the talkers and writers in all the bars and bistros of the world. No more. Now we must hide in comers, look shamefaced and guilty when we are caught together, endure the superior stares and raised eyebrows, the nolonger-concealed contempt of pimply teenagers and toothless oJdsters alike. So enough. We had a good run. Nothing lasts forever. It all goes up in smoke. But, one last drag ... SIU Pensioner Walker Karlak misses his sailing days and dreams about what it would be like to return. The cartoon above, inspired by Brother Karlak's drawing, is what Karlak thinks it might be like if he shipped today. More of Karlak's musings appear above. �SEAFARERS LOG MARCH1995 21 Final Departures DEEP SEA WILLIAM P. AUSTIN Pensioner William P. Austin, 91, died November 12, 1994. Born in Texas, Brother Austin joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards union in 1955 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District (AGLIWD). Brother Austin retired in June 1968. JOSEPH E. BAILEY Pensioner Joseph E. Bailey, 64, passed away January 14. Brother Bailey began sailing with the Seafarers -~.. --~ in 1956 from the port of New York. He shipped in the engine department and upgraded to QMED at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. From 1945 to 1949 he served in the U.S. Navy. A native of Georgia, Brother Bailey began receiving his pension in October 1992. NICANOR B. BA YUDAN Pensioner Nicanor B. Bayudan, 84, died July 21, 1994. Born in the Philippine Islands, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards union in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Bayudan retired in October 1 department and upgraded to QMED at the Lundeberg School. EDWARD LOZELLE LANE Pensioner Edward Lozelle Lane, 69, passed away February 5. • A native of Illinois, he signed on with the Seafarers in 1952 in the port of New Orleans. Brother Lane sailed in the engine department. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1943 to 1951. Brother Lane began receiving his pension in June 1972. VINCENT ROSENDO LIMON Pensioner Vincent Rosendo Limon, 63, died January 27. Brother Limon joined the SIU in 1960 in the '------'"'----------' port of Houston. He sailed in the engine department and upgraded his rating to QMED at the Lundeberg School. He served in the U. S. Army from 1955 to 1956. Brother Limon retired in October 1994. Luteman, 67, died February 8. Born in Pensioner Jay Z. Chinen, 75, passed Maryland, he away September 16, 1994. A native began sailing of Hawaii, he signed on with the with the Marine Cooks and Stewards union in union in 1955 1955 in the port of San Francisco, from the port before that union merged with the of Wilmington, Calif. Brother SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Chinen Luteman sailed in the deck departretired in October 1975. ment and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. He served in the FRANCIS P. CORCORAN U.S. Navy during World War II, - -· .. om 1943 to 1947 and again from 194 1950. BI! er Luteman began receiving his pension in coran, 84, March 1989. died January 16. A native PETER JOSEPH McANENEY of PennsylPeter Joseph vania, he McAneney, t joined the 62, passed "--"'->-----:!:!"""'-...J SIU in 1943 away in the port of New York. Brother February 5. Corcoran sailed in the steward He signed on department. He began receiving his with the pension in December 1975. Seafarers in 1951 in the JAMES JOSEPH DOYLE L--~===-.::........J port of New , Pensioner York. Brother McAneney shipped James Joseph in the engine department. A native Doyle, 79, of New York, he served in the U.S. passed away Army from 1953 to 1955. January 12. PAUL MURRAY A native of Pensioner Pennsy1vania, Paul Murray, he signed on . with the 82, passed away Decem~~---...::.-""----J Seafarers in 1949 in the port of Philadelphia. ber 21, 1994. Born in Brother Doyle sailed in both the Canada, he steward and engine departments signed on with and upgraded at the Lundeberg the union in School. A World War II veteran, he served in the U.S. Navy from 1955 in the port of Detroit. Brother Murray 1943 to 1945. Brother Doyle shipped in the engine department retired in May 1978. and upgraded to QMED at the Lundeberg School. He began receiving JOSEPH OSCAR KING his pension in September 1982. Joseph Oscar King, 56, died CHARLES R. NELSON January 5. Pensioner Born in Charles Richard NelLouisiana, son, 70, died Brother King joined the January 23. A native of union in 1968 in the port of Ohio, he Wilmington, began sailing with the SIU Calif. He sailed in the engine JAY Z. CHINEN in 1948 from the port of New York. Brother Nelson sailed in the deck department and attended upgrading courses at the Lundeberg School. He also held a third mate's license. A World War II veteran, he served in the U.S. Navy from 1943 to 1945. Brother Nelson retired in August 1989. FREDDY WILSON NUNEZ Pensioner Freddy Wilson Nunez, 46, passed away January 10. Born in Puerto Rico, he signed on with the l!"!!!!!!!l!!!!~==~~=..i Seafarers in 1968 in the port of New York after completing the Lundeberg School's training course for entry level seamen. Brother Nunez sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. He began receiving his pension in April 1993. ROGER WILLIAM PINKHAM Roger William Pinkham, 65, died February 4. Brother Pinkham began his sailing career with the --------....:.==..' union in 1968 from the port of Seattle. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Pinkham upgraded at the Lundeberg School and completed the bosun recertification course there in 1982. He served in the U.S. avy from 1947 to 1950 and the U.S. Marine Corps from 1954 to 1959. RUFINO RAMIREZ Pensioner Rufino Ramirez, 70 passed away " December 20, 1994. Born in Puerto Rico, " he joined the SIU in the port of New York in 1969. He sailed in the steward department. Brother Ramirez began receiving his pension in November 1992. SCOTT J. SAFFORD "--_..,....___ __ _ J Scott J. Safford, 39, died January 16. A native of Alabama, he began shipping with the Seafarers in 1989 from the port of Honolulu. Brother Safford sailed in the deck department. FRED D. SARDENIA Pensioner Fred D. Sardenia, 82, passed away November 17, 1994. Born in the Philippines, he began sailing with the Marine Cooks and Stewards union in 1953 from the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU' s AGLIWD. Brother Sardenia began receiving his pension in April 1973. PABLO SOLIS Pensioner Pablo Solis, 73, died May 8, 1994. A native of California, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards union in 1945 in the port of Los Angeles, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Solis retired in April 1971. HANS SPIEGEL Pensioner Hans Spiegel, 78, passed away December 23, 1994. He signed on with the Seafarers in 1947. L.__= =====-i Brother Spiegel sailed in the steward department and completed the steward recertification course at the Lundeberg School in 1980. Born in Gennany, he became a U.S. naturalized citizen. Brother Spiegel began receiving his pension in October 1983. CHARLES E. THURMOND Pensioner Charles E. Thurmond, 60, died May 20, 1994. He began sailing with the Marine Cooks and Stewards union in 1958, before that union merged with the SIU' s AGLIWD. Brother Thurmond retired in April 1975. DUDLEY R. TURNER Pensioner Dudley R. Turner, 76, passed away September 25, 1994. Born in Sydney, Australia, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards union in 1955 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Turner began receiving his pension in January 1973. GUY WILLIAM WALTER Pensioner Guy William Walter, 86, died January 15. Brother Walter signed on with the SIU as a charter mem""---....!L-...J ber in 1939 in the port of Baltimore. Sailing in the steward department, he completed the steward recertification course at the Lundeberg School in 1972. He served in the U.S. Army from 1942 to 1943. Brother Walter retired in June 1973. CLARENCE L. WATERS Pensioner Clarence L. Waters, 87, died July 29, 1994. A native of Mississippi, Brother Waters began sailing with the Marine Cooks and Stewards union in the 1940s, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Heretired in May 1970. CHARLES D. WESTMAN Pensioner Charles D. Westman, 68, passed away December 27, 1994. He signed on with the Seafarers in 1947 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Brother Westman sailed in both the steward and deck departments. He began receiving his pension in July 1984. LUBY WHEELER JR. Pensioner Luby Wheeler Jr., 69, died December3, 1994. Born in North Carolina, he began sailing with the SIU in 1944 from the port of Baltimore. Brother Wheeler sailed in the en- gine department and upgraded at the Harry Lundeberg School. He retired in August 1982. ALAND. WILLIAMS Pensioner Alan D. Williams, 76, diedDecember4, 1994. He signed on with the union in 1945 in the port of New York. Brother Williams sailed in the steward department and upgraded his skills at the Lundeberg School. Brother Williams retired in September 1977. CASPER H. WILHELM Pensioner Casper H. Wilhelm, 99, passed away January 24, 1994. He joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards union in the port of Portland, Ore., before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Wilhelm, a native of Oregon, began receiving his pension in November 1968. JESSIE WILSON Pensioner Jessie Wilson, 76, passed away August 28, 1994. A native of Texas, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards union in 1945 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Wilson began receiving his pension in September 1973. INLAND NEWBURN RUFUS WEBSTER Pensioner Newburn Rufus Webster, 74, passed away February 10. Born in Alabama, he began sailing with the Seafarers in 1956 from the port of Mobile, Ala. Boatman Webster shipped in the engine department. He retired in February 1982. GREAT LAKES CHARLES A. NAASKO Pensioner Charles A. Naasko, 89, passed away January 9. A native of Michigan, he began sailing for the SIU in w:...~..:L....>...__,........~____J 1956 from the port of Detroit. Brother Naasko shipped in the engine department. He began receiving his pension in July 1972. BERTRAM GINLEY Pensioner Bertram Ginley, 82, died January 30. He joined the Seafarers in 1961 in the port of Cleveland, ~~.JomL~.......:..~......1 Ohio. Brother Ginley sailed in the deck department. A native of Ohio, he served in the U.S. Army during World War II, from 1942 to 1945. Brother Ginley retired in January 1982. �22 SEAFARERS LOG MARCH1995 Lundeberg School Graduating Classes f \ .. - Inland AB Class- Certificates of training were received by the graduating class of upgrade rs on February 7. They are (from left, kneeling) Tom Gilliland (instructor), Bruce Messersmith, Walter Edington, Vernon Gimpel, William Hermes, John VanEnkevort, Gerald Demeuse, (second row) Raymond Spooner, Stephen Stropich, Alan Chapin, Michael Edington, Clinton Ross, James Walsh, David DeMenter, Joseph Kane, James Gibb, Dale Leonard Jr., James Fisher, (third row) David Gapske, Steven McDonald, Daniel Young, Richard Stropich, Joseph Behrens and Joseph Hance. Upgraders Lifeboat- Ryan Zanca (left) is congratuTated by his instructor, Bob Boyle, after completing the upgraders lifeboat course on February 3. Know Your Rights HARRY j LUNDE BE RG SCHOOL LIFE BOAT CLASS 533 Trainee Lifeboat Class 533- Graduating from trainee lifeboat class 533 are (from left, kneeling) Bob Boyle (instructor), Kenneth Rasberry, Deion Nguyen, Rahim Devonish, Mark Freeman, Christopher Amigable, James Herriott, (standing) Harold Brazelton, Daniel Latham, Kristof Zschaler, Peter McClung, Tyson Brown, Gary Boyd, James Robinson, Thomas Schneck, Jack Holland and Jason Brown. Sealift Operations Class- Upgrading SIU members completing the sealift operations course on February 2 are (from left, kneeling) Thomas Schaefer Jr., Rodney S. Roberson Sr., Noah Jones IV, Philip Milam, (second row) Andre Holmes, Isom Ingram, Dennis Danforth Jr., Michael Johnson, Steven Roquemore, Eric Melle, Michael Pedersen, (third row) Tony Hill, Victor Frazier, Leo Sullivan and Bill Hellwege (instructor). FINANCIAL REPORTS. The constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership's money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member's shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY THE SEAFARERS WG. The Seafarers WG tradi- Radar- Renewing their radar endorsements on January 27_ are (from left, fro~t row) Denis W. Abshire, James Hebert, Lionel J. Paul, Larry S. DeWitt, (second row) Richard Stropich, Thomas Stropich, Jerry Stropich, Scott A. Coburn, David L. Sundling and Jim Brown (instructor). tionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for SeafarersWGpolicy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is · en an official receipt, but feels that he or she shou d not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligat'on by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTMTY DONATION - SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION- If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. �MARCH1995 23 SEAFARERS LOG LUNDEBERG SCHOOL 1995 UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE The following is the course schedule for classes beginning between March and August 1995 at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship located at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. All programs are geared to improve job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. The course schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and-in times of conflict-the nation's security. Please note that students should check in the Friday before their course's start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. Declc Upgrading courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Able Seaman July 31 October20 Bridge Management (Shiphandling) April 24 July 17 May5 July 28 Lifeboatman July 17 July 28 Limited License/License Prep. July3 Augustll Radar Observer/Unlimited April 17 May22 July 10 August 14 Aprif 21 May26 July 14 August18 Third Mate August28 December 15 All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. Steward Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Assistant Cook/Cook and Baker, Chief Cook, Chief Steward April 7 June 16 June30 Septembers Engine Upgrading Courses Course Start Date August 14 March20 July3 Refrigeration Technician April 17 Certification June 19 June26 March20 Fireman/Watertender & Oiler Mayl Hydraulics June5 May22 Marine Electrical Maintenance I July 31 Marine Electrical Maintenance ll March13 Power Plant Maintenance April24 July 17 Pumproom Maintenance March27 Refrigerated Systems & Maintenance August28 Refrigerated Containers April24 April 24 Welding QMED - Any Rating Diesel Engine Technology Date of Completion November3 April 14 July 28 April 21 June 23 June30 June2 July 14 July7 June30 Septembers April 21 June2 August25 April 7 October6 May19 May19 All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. Safety Specialty Courses Inland Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Course Start Date Date of Completion Advanced Firefighting March6 March 17 Deck Inland Oil Spill Safety Recertificatio arch 30 April 27 May25 June22 July 20 March 30 April 27 May25 June22 July 20 Oil Spill Prevention & Containment August7 Augustll Sealift Operations and Maintenance Junes June JO March27 May29 August14 April 10 July 24 April 10 May8 May22 July 17 April 7 June9 August25 April21 August4 April 21 May12 June2 July 28 Tanker Operations March27 April24 May22 June 19 July 17 April 21 May19 June 16 July 14 August 11 ~ Septembers Designated Duty Engineer/ Limited License/License Prep. Engineroom Familiarization Radar Observer/Inland Welding Electronics Recertification Programs Course Start Date Date of Completion Bosun Recert1"fication May 1 June 5 Steward Recertification July 3 August 7 Additional Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion GED Preparation Mayl July21 Adult Basic Education (ABE) and English as a Second Language (ESL) April3 Junes May26 July 28 Deck and Engine Department College Courses Course Session n Start Date June 5 Date of Completion July 28 --~----·-·······-········-··-···--·-·····--·--·------·--··-·--··--·-··--·--·------·--·---·---------------·--·····--·--------·--·---·-··---------·------- UPGRADING APPLICATION Primary language s p o k e n - - - - - - - - - - - - (Street) (City) (Zip Code) (State) Dare of Birth _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Telephone__..__ __,__ _ _ _ __ (Area Code) (Month/Day/Year) Lakes Member D Deep Sea Member D Inland Waters Member D With this application, COPIES of your discharges must be submitted showing sufficient time to qualify yourselffor the course(s) requested. You also must submit a COPY of each of the following: the first page ofyour union book indicating your department and seniority, your clinic card and the front and back ofyour z-card as well as your Lundeberg School identification card listing the course(s) you have taken and completed. The admissions office WILL NOT schedule you until all of the above are received. BEGIN END COURSE DATE DATE If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security# Book # _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Seniority _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Department _ _ _ _ _ __ U.S . Citizen: D Yes D No Home Port - - - - - - - - - - - Endorsement(s) or License(s) now h e l d - - - - - - - - - - - - - Are you a graduate of the SHLSS trainee program? DYes LAST VESSEL: - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Rating: _ _ _ __ Dare On: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Dare Off: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ DNo If yes, class# - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Have you attended any SHLSS upgrading courses? 0Yes DNo If yes, course(s) taken _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? D Yes D No Firefighting: DYes D No CPR: D Yes DNo RETURN COMPLETED APPLICATION TO: Lundeberg Upgrading Center, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674. 3/95 �SIU SCHOLARSHIPS The deadline for submission of scholarship applications is APRIL 15. See page 17 for details and an application form. Volume 57, Number 3 March 1995 SJU..Crewed Vessels Serve as Blockade Runners In Annual NATO Peacekeeping Support Exercise AB Billy Dendy discovered what it might be like to steer a "pirate" vessel trying to smuggle a load of contraband arms through a North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) warship blockade. Dendy was the helmsman aboard the SIU-crewed American Merlin, which served with the Buffalo Soldier as blockade runners in a special NATO exercise, code-named "Dynamic Guard '94," in the Mediterranean Sea in September and October. Seafarers crewed a total of six Military Sealift Command (MSC) prepositioning ships which were called upon to participate in the exercise. Also involved in the exercise were the SIU-crewed Major Stephen W. Pless, PFC Eugene A. Obregon, 2nd Lt. John P. Bobo and Sgt. Mate} Kocak. (Establishedin 1949,NATOis a treaty between the U.S., Canada · and various Western European · · th d nations, ag:eemg at an arme attack agamst one or more of them would be considered an atta k · t th all NATO al c agams . em ·. so states that disputes will be sett~ed by ·ctpeaceful means, and · rn· · di v1 u.al and co11ectlvecap~c1ties to resist armed _a~tack will be developed.Inaddit10ntotheU:S. and Canada NATO members m1 d B D k ~u e ~ grnm, ~ma~ ' ranee, ermany' ree e, Iceland, Italy, Ltlxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, S · T k d h U ·t d iJaI~, u)r ey an t e m e ng om. i· Provides Challenging Training Dynamic Guard, an annual NATO Southern Region exercise, took place September 26 October 14, 1994 throughout the eastern Mediterranean Sea, the Aegean Sea and Turkey. The exercise was specifical1y designed to provide challenging training for NATO conventional forces in both joint and combined maritime, land, amphibious and air operations in the eastern portion of the Mediterranean area, and land and amphibious operations in Turkey and Greece. More than 30,000 military personnel, 60 ships and 190 aircraft from France, the Federal Republic of Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Turkey, the United Kingdom and the United States participated in the exercise. (While not part of NA TO' s integrated military structure, the French joined in the exercise as part of their normal training relations with their NATO allies.) The SIU-crewed military prepositioning ship Buffalo Soldier, usually stationed in the Mediterranean Sea, was one of 60 ships participating in Dynamic Guard, an annual NATO exercise involving seven nations. ade," said Dendy. Using shore-based patrol aircraft and shipboard sensors to track and intercept the American Seafarers Simulate Smugglers Merlin and Buffalo Soldier, the Th e B u,n.a 1o so id·ier an d Allied task force stood by as the A . M11 . · · db two ships worked separately to merrcan er1zn were JOme y attempt to penetrate the barrier an Allied naval task force made undetected. f D t h B ·f h c d · up 0 . u c ' !1- is • ana ~an, Spamsh and Italian combat ships. Refused NATO Orders The drill simulated the seizure of contraband by setting up a blockOnce observed by the task · · theshi ps un der force , crewmembers aboard the ade andb nngmg NATOcontrol. AmericanMerlinandBuffaloSolThe exercise required the two dier refused to divert into a U.S. roll on/roll off breakbulk NATOportforinspectionoftheir . vessels to fabncate an attempt to cargo. "The Dutch ship was only violate United Nations' sanctions by smugglingarrnsandothercon- about 50 yards away, right tra ban d t o countnes · wh.1ch are alongside us trying to persuade b db th UN The Al- the captain to go into port for inem argoe Y e · · lied warships were responsible spection," Dendy said. Radio challenges were igfor enforcing the blockade. "I was on the bridge during the nored as crewmembers aboard entire exercise. There was a lot of the American Merlin and Buffalo hand steering and careful Soldier gave misleading informamaneuvering of the Merlin while tion about their cargo manifests and we tried to get around the Allied itineraries and stalled to avoid comships to break through the block- plying with Allied orders. "It was my job to pay attention to the compass, and I got to listen in on all of the communications tion on the whereabouts of between the Allied guys and our Richard Vaughan Acreecaptain. He did a great job Smith should contact the Naportraying the character of a tional Center for Missing and captain of a ship carrying conExploited Children at (800) traband," noted the AB. "He 843-5678 or the Missing Perwas great as he tried to convince sons Unit of the Warrensville the NATO guys that his cargo Heights Police Department at was only automobiles. He used (216) 587-6530. excellent delay tactics that really took a lot of imagination," Dendy said. When the ships continued to avoid Allied commands and were considered potential blockade runners, the warship crews sought permission from NATO officials to use force. Once using force was Help Locate Missing Child The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) has asked the Seafarers International Union to assist them in locating Richard Vaughan AcreeSmi th . He disappeared last August from Warrensville Heights, Ohio at the age of 16. He had never run away before and took no money or clothing with him. The NCMEC considers him an endangered runaway. The brown-eyed, brownhaired boy was 5 ft. 11 in. at the time of his disappearance. He weighed 140 pounds. Richard Acree-Smith has a mole on the right side of his face by his ear. He was last seen wearing ripped blue jeans, a black t-shirt over a yellow t-shirt and brown hiking boots. Anyone having informa- authorized, the combatants used a Richard Acree-Smith flashing light to simulate a "shot across the bow," which resulted in the surrender of the two ships and the end of the exercise. "It was an interesting experience," recalled Dendy. The prepositioning ships Photo: USAF TSgt Keith Reed, AFSOUTH Public Information Also taking part in the Mediterranean exercise are Seafarers aboard the Major Stephen W. Pless. (Background) Petty Officer 2nd Class Lowell stands watch on the upper deck of a landing craft as it deploys from the Pless. Pless, Obregon, Bobo and Kocak, were involved in a different aspect of Dynamic Guard which entailed acting as educational centers for NATO officials. While the vessels were anchored in the Mediterranean, various officials (from the Allied nations) boarded the ships and were oriented on the particulars of prepositioning ships by members of the U.S. Marine Corps. Seafarers who serve aboard these vessels keep them ready to operate at a moment's notice when they are needed to sail into one of the world ' s hot spots. During Dynamic Guard, the galley gang members prepared and served extra food to officials who were brought on board, while other Seafarers stood ready for possible deployment. Crews Praised Admiral Leighton W. Smith Jr., Commander-in-Chief of Allied Forces Southern Europe for NATO, stated Dynamic Guard provided "a superb demonstration of NA TO' s commitment, cohesion and resolve." Real-world operations in Bos- nia-Herzegovina, Haiti and the Middle East resulted in numerous changes to both the exercise scenario and participating forces. "NATO and national commitments to ongoing and evolving crises led to unavoidable ]ate changes in the exercise plan," Admiral Smith stated. "In spite of this, Dynamic Guard '94 has been a success in building the multi-national force capabilities required to prosecute both traditional missions and those ne;; ~ssions aris~g from NATO s mv.olve,?1ent m peace support operations. The MSC deployed and redeployed 14,400 square feet of Air National Guard and Navy equipment from Charleston, S.C. and Rota, Spain to Bandirma and Tekirdag, Turkey for use during the NATO exercise. The American Merlin is operated for MSC by OspreyAcomarit Ship Management. The Buffalo Soldier, also operated for MSC, is run by RR & VO Partnership. The Pless, Obregon and Kocak are operated by Waterman Steamship Co., and the Bobo is an American Overseas Marine Corp. (Amsea) vessel. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 1990-1999 Description An account of the resource Volumes LII-LXI Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993; Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource March 1995 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES SIU: EXPORTING ALASKA OIL ON AMERICAN-FLAG VESSELS PROMOTES U.S. TANKER FLEET CLINTON 1996 BUDGET EARMARKS FUNDS FOR U.S. SHIPPING MARITIME’S STATUS IS UNCLEAR IN DOT REORGANIZATION PLAN LOTT DETAILS AGENDA FOR A STRONG U.S. FLEET PASSAGE OF MARITIME REVITALIZATION BILL IS TOP PRIORITY FOR WHITE HOSE: DOT SIU VOWS TO FIGHT REFLAGGING MOVE OF SEA-LAND CO. TWO MAERSK SHIPS REFLAGGED, PLACED UNDER U.S. REGISTRY TOM FAY DIES, WAS LUNDEBERG SCHOOL VP SIU FIGHTS FOR SEAMEN SAFETY PROVISIONS IN INTERNATIONAL MARITIME GROUP’S STANDARDS U.S. MARITIME BACKERS DEFEND FMC, ’84 SHIP ACT WARM WEATHER PROMPTS EARLY LAKES SHIPPING DYSLEXIA DID NOT STOP ELLIS FROM EXCELLING AT SEA A NEW SLANT ON ORAN EXAMS MTD: WORKERS MUST GAIN FROM GLOBAL TRADE LOTT CALLS FOR EFFORTS TO REVITATLIZE MARITIME NLRB HEAD SEEKS FAIRER RENDERING OF LABOR LAWS PAUL HALL CENTER ADDS VESSEL TO SCHOOL’S TRAINING FLEET CG-APPROVED RADAR OPERATION CLASS PRAISED BY PARTICIPATING BOATMEN 25 LAKES SEAMEN UPGRADE TO AB AGENCY EXTENDS DEADLINE FOR TOWBOAT OPERATORS TO GET RADAR ENDORSEMENT OFFICER UNIONS FILE SUIT TO BLOCK APL FLAG-OUT FORMER N.O. PORT OFFICIAL MARTY KANOA DIES AT 68 SABINE CREWS APPROVE 3-YEAR PACT NAVY’S TORPEDO RECOVERY VESSELS’ CREWS SET SIGHTS ON UNION CONTRACT MATTHEISEN MANEUVERS THROUGH ICY WATERS, DELIVERS FUEL TO ANTARCTIC BASE A RUNAWAY SKIPS OUT ON WAGES, ITF WINS $5, 187IN AB’S BACK PAY CS MAEDA PRAISES SAS ABOARD GLOBAL LINK SIU-CREWED VESSELS SERVCE AS BLOCKADE RUNNERS IN ANNUAL NATO PEACKEEPING SUPPORT EXERCISE Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 03/01/1995 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 57, No. 3 1995 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/eb313f41318b4ae25990f1f547271cee.pdf 521444e803c726fd56e6f643a04eafd1 PDF Text Text Volume 57, Number 2 February 1995 APL's Flag-Out Waiver Violates Law, SIU Charges ANTI-AMERICAN TfRROR,~M--~ A NEW LOOK! Unions Ask Court ta Overturn Abuse at Subsidy Contract A U.S. government agency ruling that APL can operate six new ships under foreign-flag registry is under challenge by an SIU lawsuit. Page3 In this Issue Out of the Ice to Working With Ice Congress Reallocates Panels' Authority of U.S. Shipping Issues Page3 Gov1t Appeals Order Of Court to Refund Part of Z-Card Fees Page2 Louisiana Bestows $250 to WWII Seamen Who Lived in State Page9 Ending an unusually long sailing season, Great Lakes vessels laid up last month, giving Seafarers such as Chief Cook Ray Calo a chance to compete in ice sculpture competitions. Great Lakes Seafarers reflect on the '94 shipping season and speculate on their winter vacation plans. Page 5. �2 SEAFARERS LOG President's Report Congress in 1994-What's On Deck Although the 104th Congress has been in session for only a month, many matters concerning U.S. shipping are already front and center. For instance, right off the bat, the new Republican-majority Congress reorganized the committee structures, reducing the number of ~~:::::; panels. Merchant marine issues have been transferred to defense, transportation and natural resources committees in the House. In the Senate, the merchant marine subcommittee has been merged with a ground transportation subcommittee of the Commerce Committee. The reorganization poses a cha]]enge for the SIU and other proponents of a vital U.S.-flag fleet in that many members of the committees with jurisdiction over shipping affairs have not been heavily exposed to maritime isMichael Sacco sues. Additionally, many legislators are new and, thus, have never voted on U.S. shipping policies. All of this means we in the SIU and all American maritime elements have a big job to do educating recently elected representatives and senators and those with new maritime responsibilities on the need for a viable U.S. merchant marine to serve the nation's security and economic interests. Despite the many new forces at work in the Congress this year, there are a number of backers of U.S. shipping in both the House and the Senate who hold key committee and subcommittee chairmanships. Among them are Senator Trent Lott (R-Miss.), who heads the Surface Transportation and Merchant Marine Subcommittee of the Senate Commerce Committee, and Representative Herbert H. Bateman (R-Va.), chairman of the Military Readiness Subcommittee of the House National Security Committee, which used to be known as the Armed Services Committee. A top priority for Sen. Lott and Rep. Bateman and other elected officials concerned with America's seapower will be enactment of a maritime shipbuilding and ship operating revitalization program. Remember that the last Congress came within an inch of passing a bill that would have provided funding for 10 years for more than 50 U.S.-flag containerships in exchange for their availability in times of conflict and allocated monies to assist U.S. shipyards. The Senate did not get to vote on the legislation because a lastminute parliamentary maneuver by Senators Larry Pressler (R-S.D.), Charles E. Grassley (R-Iowa) and Hank Brown (R-Colo.) blocked the bill from going to a floor vote. Pro-maritime legislators indicate that a bill similar to the one that came close to passing last year will be introduced in both chambers of Congress this year. To pass this legislation, the SIU and all groups that believe in the necessity of a U.S.-flag fleet must muster all their energies to use in an effort to secure backing from Congress for the bill. Once a maritime program passes the Congress, President Clinton has vowed to sign it into law. A maritime issue that was introduced in both the House and the Senate on the first day of this year's session was the lifting of the ban on exporting Alaskan oil. A key part of this bill is the requirement that any exported Alaska oil must be shipped on U.S.-flag tankers. In addition to new maritime policies that are being taken up by Congress, there are existing programs and governmental structures which serve as a foundation for the U.S . merchant marine that are being examined by both the administration and Congress in an effort to cut back on government costs and reduce the federal budget. It will be up to the SIU and other American maritime groups to work with pro-maritime elected officials to ensure that such programs and agencies are not eliminated simply to save money in the short term, arguing that in the long run the nation could pay dearly for its lack of an American-flag shipping capability. One item that faces possible elimination is the U.S. government's program to donate food aid to the citizens of poor nations. This program is known as P.L. 480. The American government purchases surplus grains, rice, flour and other food stuffs from U.S. agricultural interests and distributes the commodities through private, charitable organizations in underdeveloped countries. This program is subject to the nation's cargo preference laws which require that at least 75 percent of U.S.-government agricultural cargoes be carried on American-flag ships. Cargo preference laws also are being scrutinized by some in Congress who believe that government funds could be saved by allowing foreign-flag vessels to carry the U.S.-aid cargoes. The SIU is not only working to ensure that the nation's cargo preference laws are maintained, but the union also is combining forces with a number of groups that hope to save the P.L. 480 program. A coalition of voluntary relief organizations, agriculture and transportation interests have combined their efforts to convince Congress and the administration that American food aid is an effective way to promote good will towards the United States at a very low cost. Some of the government agencies that regulate shipping also are under fire. In the name of trimming government, some elected officials have proposed scratching the Federal Maritime Commission, which protects American consumers, shippers and ship operators from unscrupulous and unfair shipping practices by allowing rates to be set for ocean shipping. Another budget cutting target is the Interstate Commerce Commission, which establishes tariffs for shipping between two U.S. ports linked by an ocean or sea. (The ICC does not regulate inland waterway operations.) As the 104th Congress takes up maritime-related issues, the SIU will be vigilant in ensuring that the needs and concerns of the men and women who earn their living working aboard U.S.-flag vessels are heard and considered. We in the SIU do not kid ourselves; the task ahead will not be easy. But with a lot of work on our part and that of other maritime groups and the help of the representatives and senators who understand that the world's greatest power must have a correspondingly powerful maritime capacity, the upcoming session of Congress should bring some gains for U.S. shipping. FEBRUARY 1995 SIU1s Work-Tax Lawsuit Moves to Appeals Court Gov't Disputes Judge's Order to Refund Part of Fees A decision by a federal judge ordering the U.S. Coast Guard to cease charging seamen and boatmen $17 for an FBI background check when applying for marine documents or licenses and refund what has been charged for this action was appealed by the government last month to the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. The government's January 19 appeal seeks to overturn a ruling by Judge Louis F. Oberdorfer on the SIU' s lawsuit filed in the United States District Court for the District of Columbia challenging the validity of socalled user fees attached to merchant mariner's documents (or z-cards) and licenses. Protest New Fee-Setting U.S. Justice Department attorneys, who represent the Coast Guard, also have appealed the lower court judge's order that the Coast Guard recalculate the costs currently charged to mariners for their agency-issued merchant mariner's documents and licenses. These charges range from $35 for an entrylevel merchant mariner's document to close to $250 for an upper level license. The union also has challenged a portion of Judge Oberdorfer' s ruling. In a notice of appeal filed with the court on January 20, the SIU asked the court of appeals to overturn the portion of the judge's decision that "concluded that the Coast Guard could appropriately impose any license and document fees at all against merchant seamen and boatmen." SIU Disputes 'Private Benefit' The union's lawsuit has argued that user fees charged to mariners for government-required z-cards and licenses is essentially a work tax, and, as such, unconstitutional. In his memorandum accompanying the November 23, 1994 order, Judge Oberdorfer found that the Coast Guard did have the right to set the fees as it "is not irrational" to assume that seamen and boatmen derive some independent benefit from a license that "confers the benefit of professional employment." Thus, the judge did not accept the union's contention that fees for issuing z-cards and marine licenses and processing and evaluating data associated with those documents should be prohibited. Judge Oberdorfer did concur with the union's position that the manner in which the fees had been calculated by the Coast Guard was flawed . He also sided with the union in determining that the FBI background check provides no independent benefit to the mariner and thus he or she cannot be charged for that process. (An FBI criminal records check is done when a document or license applicant first files his or her paperwork with the Coast Guard.) Appeals May Delay Order With both the Justice Department and the SIU chaJlenging portions of Judge Oberdorfer' s decision, the Coast Guard might wait to implement the recalculation of fees and prohibition and refund of the $17 PB I criminal records check. The agency also can implement these orders as well while its appeal is being considered. As the LOG was going to press, it was unclear which action the Coast Guard would choose. Joining the SIU in the lawsuit are five men who earn their living working on deep sea, Great Lakes or inland vessels and other maritime unions-Sailors' Union of the Pacific; Marine Firemen's Union; District 4National Maritime Union!IvlEBA; American Maritime Officers; International Organization of Masters, Mates and Pilots; and District No. I -Marine Engineers Beneficial Association. The suit was filed in April 1993 when the Coast Guard began charging mariners fees for z-cards and marine licenses. The fee-collection process was established by the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1990 in an attempt by Congress and the then Bush administration to raise funds to cut the federal deficit. Prior to this act, it was against the law to charge a fee for a seaman's license. MSC Chief: Prepositioning Ships Key to Nation's Sealift Assets America's future military sealift needs primarily will be met by prepositioning ships such as the civilian-crewed vessels used last year during a rapid buildup of U.S. armed forces in the Persian Gulf, said the head of the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC). U.S. Navy Vice Admiral P.M. Quast told the Propeller Club in Washington, D.C. on November 30 that prepositioning vessels, aided by ships from the Ready Reserve Force (RRF), will be crucial in future conflicts. "These pre-loaded ships are the key to getting the necessary military equipment and supplies married up with our military forces wherever and whenever needed," stated Quast, who is in charge of the agency within the U.S. Navy responsible for waterborne transport logistics. "The mobility of U.S . forces in times of crisis is one that sends a powerful, fast message to any aggressor." Additionally, Quast noted that the deployment last year of RRF ships in support of U.S. armed forces in Haiti reminded the American mi1itary that "when operating in less developed ports, we depend heavily on the (maritime) Volume 57, Number 2 industry to provide a wide variety of infrastructure support equipment such as tugs and barges and crew boats to facilitate operations." The most recent mobilization of U.S. troops to the Persian Gulf, known as Operation Southern Watch, commenced in October, in response to a buildup of Iraqi troops near Kuwait. MSC directed 19 prepositioning and RRF ships to sail in support of the mission. (SIU members crewed 11 of those vessels.) "Without a doubt, having prepositioned ships stored with stocks of weapons, food and other essential equipment proved invaluable in the recent rapid buildup in the Persian Gulf," Quast said. U.S.-flag prepositioning ships remain fully loaded to support American troops and are ready to set sail immediately after a military activation has been called. They are located in strategic ports around the world and crewed by civilian mariners. The RRF, meanwhile, is a fleet of former commercial ships that have been laid up and placed under U.S. government ownership for use in surge shipping during times of conflict. February 1995 The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 0160-2047) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District; AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Secondclass postage paid at MSC Prince Georges, MD 20790-9998 and at additional mailing offices. POS1MASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Au th Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Managing Editor, Daniel Duncan; AssociateEditors,JordanBiscardo and Corrina Christensen Gutierrez; Associate Editor/Production, Deborah A. Hirtes; Art, Bill Brower; Administrative Support, Jeanne Textor. �FEBRUARY 1995 SEAFARERS LOG IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT FOR THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA, PACIFIC DISTRICT 350 Fremont street San Franc i sco, Cal i forni a 94 1 05 , Plaint i ff , CASE NUMBER v. l; 95CV0006 2 JUDGE • Stanl ey s. Harri s UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, c/o The U.S. Attorney General of the United States Washington, D.C . DECK TYPE• c1v1l Gene ral nue is proper APL Flag-Out Waiver Violates U.S. Law, Charge SIU Unions An exemption from U.S. laws that allows American President Lines (APL) to operate six new containerships under foreign flags in competition with the company's U.S.-flag ships has been challenged in federal district court by the Seafarers International Union Pacific District. The three unions that make up the SIU' s Pacific District-the Sailors' Union of the Pacific; Marine Firemen's Union and SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District-have asked the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia to overturn a decision by the Department of Transportation's Maritime Administration (MarAd) permitting APL to flag-out six C-11 ships SIU Pacific District unions have asked a federal court to overturn a which will be delivered to the government decision that permits APL to operate six new container- company over the next two years. The lawsuit, filed January 12, ships under foreign-flag registries. . ~-·-" 0~ ~ · of the of a decision . for revie . . tration . . s an action itime Adlllinis This i f the Mar . 2. . . strator) o t of iunerican the "AdJlini . the reques . istrator ( ) granting operator, 11.Qlllin s-902 (a . d u.s.-flag ") in oocket subsidize Marine ("MarAd ("APL")' a the Merchant . Ltd. (a) of 4 . dent Lines' ction so . t APL to presi revisions of se · n order to permi to waive the p ded (the n11.ct") ' i i~ foreign-fl.a9 36 as amen . d services s for t.ne :p.ct of l.9 ' . in9 subsidize tJY a11owin9' in its eXist erate, there t\, operate · 11 own and op t Marine, a that APL wi e u. S' Merchan much vessels . torY of th one vessel' \ ime in the his eratin9 even . first t operator op tition with \\ U -tla9 . t co111pe . dized • 5 • in direc d ('b) subsi foreiqn-fla9 service; an i . under . the same iess six, sselS in -. to APL' 5 -flag ve ' fication \ dized u.s. or modi 11 withou . MA/MSB-4 ii suPsi . a contract.ual change eement No. . subsidY 11.gr ' effecting rential ating-oiffe . tnerefor, APL' s wai oper ca acitY to grant . 'W challenges MarAd's November 15, 1994 ruling granting APL a waiver from the nation's law that prohibits a shipping company receiving federal subsidy dollars from owning or operating a foreign-flag vessel in competition with U.S.-flag operators in trade routes deemed essential to America's interests. This prohibition is found in Section 804(a) of the Merchant Marine Act of 1936. stated that the C-11 s would be used on the transpacific routes between California ports and Japan, Taiwan and Hong Kong. Under the Merchant Marine Act of 1936, the government is allowed to waive the provisions of Section 804(a) in certain special circumstances. The unions' court paper contends, however, that giving APL a waiver was not permissible as it constitutes a violation of the law that prevents American operators from enterSubsidized on One Hand ing foreign-registered vessels APL requested the exemption into head-to-head competition from Section 804(a) in July 1993, with ships subsidized by the U.S. shortly after it had placed its order government. with foreign shipyards for the six Foreign On the Other containerships. Last year, APL, a subsidiary of the Oakland, Calif.APL, by its own admission, based American President Com- intends to operate the new cargo panies, asked MarAd to expedite ships on the same routes currently its waiver application, which Continued on page 8 Republican Reorganization o,f Congress Senate Combines Maritime, Transport Bodies; Three House Committees Cover Marine Issues Maritime issues will be taken up by a newly formed subcommittee in the Senate as a result of the consolidation of two subcommittees of the Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee. The Senate merchant marine subcommittee has been merged with the surface transportation group, announced the chairman of the Commerce Committee, Senator Larry Pressler (RS.D.), on January 12 during an organizational meeting of the panel. The new panel, named the Surface Transportation and Merchant Marine Subcommittee, will be made up of six RepublicansSenators Trent Lott (Miss.), Bob Packwood (Ore.), Ted Stevens (Alaska), Conrad Bums (Mont.), Kay Bailey Hutchison (Texas) and Olympia Snowe (Maine) and five Democrats-Senators Daniel K. Inouye (Hawaii), J. James Exon (Neb.), John Breaux (La.), Richard Bryan (Nev.) and Byron L. Dorgan (N.D.). Chaired by Sen. Lott, who serves as Senate Majority Whip, the second highest position in that body, the group also will have jurisdiction over trucking and rail matters. U.S. Coast Guard issues and fisheries questions will be handled by a newly named subcommittee within the Commerce Committee. The Oceans and Fisheries Subcommittee, which replaced the National Ocean Policy Study Subcommittee, will be headed by Sen. Stevens. Maritime's Military Role While the Senate was fashioning its organizational structure for the 104th Congress, the House of Representatives adopted a rule that made official plans to reshape the chamber's committees and procedures that had been put forward by Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich (R-Ga.) in consultation with the Republican majority's members. The rule, enacted January 4, reduced the number of House committees from 23 to 20, abolishing the Merchant Marine and Fisheries Committee and distributing its jurisdiction to three other groups-the National Security Committee, headed by Representative Floyd D. Spence (R-S.C.), the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and the Public Lands and Resources Committee. Each of those committees in tum has designated a subcommittee to be its primary group to work on maritime matters. The House's Military Readiness Subcommittee of the National Security Committee, previously known as the Armed Services Committee, will oversee merchant marine policy. Issues to be addressed by the Military Readiness Subcommittee, chaired by Rep. Herbert H. Bateman (R-Va.), are U.S.-flag ship construction and operation, cabotage requirements and cargo preference laws which dictate that certain percentages of government-impelled cargoes are carried on American-flag vessels. Sealift Concerns Highlighted The subcommittee also will be concerned with sealift matters, such as the status of the Ready Reserve Force (RRF), the government's fleet of laid-up ships that can be broken out in support of U.S. military operations. Another focus of the Military Readiness Subcommittee will be merchant vessel personnel. Under the realm of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, headed by Rep. Bud Shuster (R-Pa.), will be the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee. The subcom- House Maritime Jurisdiction The Republicans listed are chairmen of the new committees and subcommittees. The Democrats are the groups' ranking minority party members. Merchant Marine and Fisheries Old House Committee Rep. Herbert H. Bateman / New House Committees National Security Rep. Floyd Spence (R·S.C.) Rep. Ronald Dellums (D-Calif.) Transportation and Infrastructure Resources Rep. Bud Shuster (R-Pa.) Rep. Norman Mineta (D-Calif.) Rep. Don Young (A-Alaska) Rep. George Miller (D·Calif.) Oversight Issues New House Subcommittees Military Readiness Rep. Herbert Bateman (A-Va.) Rep. Norman Sisisky (D·Va.) mittee, chaired by Rep. Howard Coble (R-N.C.) will oversee the nation's inland waterways policies and governmental agencies associated with maritime affairs such as the Coast Guard, Maritime Administration and Federal Maritime Commission. Another Transportation and Infrastructure Committee subcommittee will have jurisdiction over the nation's dredging opera- Coast Guard and Maritime Rep. Howard Coble (R-N.C.) Rep. James Traficant (D-Ohio) Fisheries Wildlife and Oceans Rep. Jim Saxton (R·N.D.) Rep. Gerry Studds (D·Mass.) tions, dams and locks. Called the Water Resources and Environment Subcommittee, it will be headed by Rep. Sherwood L. Boehlert (R-N.Y.). The third committee to absorb part of the work of the former Merchant Marine and Fisheries Committee will be the new House Public Lands and Resources Continued on page 8 House Creates New Panel to Study Maritime Revitalization The House National Security Committee has approved the formation of a panel charged with developing legi·slation to revitalize the U.S.-flag merchant fleet. In the prior session of Congress, this work was handled by the House Merchant Marine Subcommittee. However, that group was disbanded under rules adopted by the House on January 4. A panel differs from a subcommittee in that it can create legislation but cannot have bills referred to it. Panels also are limited in length of service, generally lasting six months. Subcommittees are fully functioning parts of the whole committee. They can create bills, have legislation referred to them from other committees and have no time limit on their duration. Named to head the group is Representative Herbert H. Bateman (R-Va.), who also serves as the chairman of the committee's Military Readiness Subcommittee. In accepting the chairmanship, Bateman said the panel "will assess ways to reverse the alarming reductions in the number ofU.S.flag vessels, which are critical to Continued on page 8 3 �4 FEBRUARY 1995 SEAFARERS LOG Earthquake Shatters Kobe Port's Cranes Ships Docking in Other Ports A major earthquake that devastated the port city of Kobe, Japan has left shipping lines scurrying to find alternative ports. Kobe, Japan's second largest city, had been that nation's largest conta iner port until an earthquake registeri ng 7 .2 on the Richter scale rumbled through the area on the morni ng of January 16. The port handled, on average, 2.7 million containers annuaJJy. SIU-contracted operators SeaLand and American President Lines (APL) both had major operations in Kobe. Both companies' facilitie suffered major damage. The four container cranes located at the Sea-Land facility on Rokko Island derailed during the quake. One of the cranes also was bent in the tremor . At the APL facility on Port Island, the company lost all three of its cranes lo derai lment. However, like Sea-Land, no APL ships were tied up at the dock when the quake occurred. Major Repairs Needed "It's a disaster over there," noted Frank Riley, vice president for labor relations at APL. He said engineers from the company's headquarters in Oakland, Calif. had arrived in Kobe on January 23 and were "speaking in tenns of months for repairs" in their initial reports. Both islands suffered major land damage when the landfill from which they were built buckled, cracked and rolled. This affected the container storage areas as well as roads and bridges leading to and from the islands. Sea-Land and APL are competing with other companies to use smaller dock and storage spaces available at various other ports in Japan, like Tokyo, Nagoya, Yokohama and nearby Osaka, which also suffered damage to its container facilities. Speculation in the press on the time it may take to rebuild the Kobe port facilities range from six months to three years. LNG Operations Continue Another SIU-contracted company, Energy Transportation Corp. (ETC), uses port facilities in Osaka, which is across the bay from Kobe. No ETC ships, which transport liquified natural gas from Indonesia to Japan, were in port at the time of the earthquake. According to George Reiily, ETC' s vice president for marine personnel, the company has been able to dock at the port and offload with no trouble. "The only problem we have encountered is getting fresh stores to the ship," Reilly relayed to the Seafarers LOG. "Because so many of the roads have been damaged, we are having difficulties getting fresh milk and other foods to the ships. But we are working on it." The earthquake is being called the worst to affect Japan since World War II-in terms of loss of life and cost to the infrastructure. It was centered approximately 20 miles from Kobe and struck just before 6 a.m. local time. AP PhotolKY.odO The port city of Kobe, Japan was devastated by a January 16 earthquake, powerful aftershocks and tires caused by ruptured pipes, leaving the city bereft of its vital transport arteries such as the Osaka-Kobe highway in photo inset. Damage to port facilities from the 7.2 Richter scale quake has forced ships to secure berths in Tokyo, Osaka and other Japanese cities. European Shipping Survives Floods Despite the worst flooding in the 20th century across northern Europe, deep sea vessel operations in port cities in Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands are not slowing down. Deep Sea Shipping OK "Our vessels have not been impacted," stated William Summers, a spokesman for SIU-contracted Sea-Land Service. "No ship operations have been affected. The flooding mainly affects inland and intermodal operations." The flooding began in late January following several days of torrential rain. Also, winter temperatures in Europe have been Bill Allowing Export of Alaska Oil On U.S.-Flag·Ships Before Congress Efforts are under way in both bodies of Congress to lift the ban on the export of Alaska North Slope oil as long as the crude is carried aboard U.S.-flag vessels. Bills introduced in both the House and the Senate on January 4, the first day that the 104th Congress met in Washington, D.C., seek to end the 22-year restriction on the export of Alaska North Slope oil. Presently, U.S.-flag vessels carry the oil from Alaska to domestic ports on the West Coast, as called for by the Jones Act. Both the House and Senate versions of the legislation state that "the oil shall be transported by a vessel documented under the laws of the United States and owned by a citizen of the United States." Known as H.R. 70 in the House, the bill has been referred to the House Resources Committee, headed by Rep. Don Young CR-Alaska). H.R. 70 is sponsored by Rep. Bill Thomas CR-Calif.) and has bipartisan support from 13 fellow legislators. The counterpart bill in the Senate,S.70,isbeforetheSenate Banking Committee, whose chairman is Sen . Alfonse D'Amato (R-N.Y.). Sponsoring the bill is Sen. Frank Murkowski (RAlaska). Co-sponsors include Senators Ted Stevens CR-Alaska), John Breaux (D-La.) and Howell Heflin (D-Ala.). warmer than normal, causing earlier snows to melt. While flood waters have reached port cities, no oceanshipping companies are reporting any problems. Barge traffic on the Rhine River in Germany as well as the Maas and Waal rivers were halted for a time. Barges carry many of the containers that are transported across Europe. While some containers that were being sent to deep sea ports are stranded, most companies are Rivers Out of Control Flooding in northern Europe has forced nearly a half million residents to leave their homes as of February 1. Besides Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands, rivers in France and Luxembourg also have left their banks. Random Drug Test Pool Reduced by Federal Regs New federal rules requiring alcoho I testing programs and extension of drug testing programs impact the maritime industry by lowering the random rate for drug testing to 25 percent of employees, from the previous 50 percent. The testing program, which will affect more than 7.4 million employees who perform safety-sensitive functions in In letters sent last month urging members of Congress to support the legislation, the presidents of the SIU, District No. 1MEBA and American Maritime Officers said removal of the Ala ka North Slope oil export ban would help keep America's independent tankertleetonthehighseas,aswell as "promote our military security by extending the life ofourmilitarily useful tanker fleet." Applicants Must Be Screened For Use of Illegal Substances Tankers Necessary for Defense Energy Secretary Hazel O'Leary stated last month that she support the lifting of the export ban and expects to urge Congress to enact uch a mea ure, according to press reports. Last year, the Department of Energy released a report stating that lifting the ban would create new jobs both on land and at sea as well as raise revenues that could reduce America' export deficit. The law banning the export of Alaskan oil wa instituted in 1973 following the first Arab oil embargo. The legislation was designed to make the United State more energy independent. The Export Administration Act, which includes the ban on the export of Alaskan oil, expired last yearwithoutacongressionalextension. However, the Clinton administration issued an executive order keeping the Act in place. The U.S. Coast Guard last month issued a final rule that requires chemical testing for use of dangerous drugs of all applicants for issuance or renewal of merchant mariner's documents (also known as z-cards or MMDs), licenses or certificates ofregistry. The new regulation, which implements provisions of the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (OPA '90), becomes effective on March 24. It also require applicants for a first endorsement as an AB, lifeboatman, QMED or tankerman to be chemically tested for drug use. There are exceptions to the testing requirement. An applicant will not be required to undergo chemical testing if he or she provides evidence of having passed a chemical test for dangerous drugs within the previous six months, with no subsequent positive chemical tests during the remainder of the sixmonth period. A test also is not necessary if Similar bills to repeal the ban using U.S.-flag tankers were introduced in both chambers of Congress last year. Neither the House nor the Senate completed work on the legislation before Congress adjourned. finding alternate routes . Many carriers have made provisions to move containers by truck and rail to keep their operations moving as smoothly as possible. the applicant, during the previous 185 days, has been subject to a random testing program for at least 60 days and did not fail or refuse to participate in a chemical test for dangerous drugs. Additionally, with regard to unlicensed personnel, because ABs, QMEDs and tankermen must take a physical (which ineludes a drug test) when sitting for those respective ratings, only entry ratings and prospective lifeboatmen who do not meet the exemption standards are affected by the new rule. "From a practical standpoint, it's almost the same as what's already going on," said Lt. Commander Ken McKinna of the U.S. Coast Guard's Merchant Vessel Personnel Division. Moreover, because of random and pre-employment testing already in practice, along with the fact that the SIU requires drug tests of all entry ratings, the new testing rule creates little or no procedural change for most Seafarers. transportation industries, went into effect on January 1. In fact, each transportation industry where the positive, industrywide rate for random testing is less than 1.0 percent for two consecutive years, wilJ have its random testing rate dropped to 25 percent, according to the new rules. The regulations, issued by the U.S. Department of Transportation, do not apply to the maritime industry with respect to preemployment, post-accident, random and probable-cause testing. This is because the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (OPA '90) already requires the testing of mariners for drug and alcohol use. Additionally, other regulations requiring post-accident and probable-cause alcohol testing of mariners have been in effect since the mid-1980s. Testing Pool Can Increase Should the U.S . Coast Guard receive data that the reported positive random testing rate is equal to or greater than 1.0 percent, the minimum annual percentage rate for random drug testing will return to 50 percent of all covered crewmembers. The new regulations now require random drug-testing of employees who have safety-sensitive transportation jobs (in rail, air, truck and other transport services) in the public and private sectors. �SEAFARERS LOG FEBRUARY 1995 5 Lakes' Seafarers Reflect on '94 Season Crews Anticipate Brief Layup And Early Fitout he productive, nonstop '94 Great Lakes sailing season came on the heels of the most severe winter in 16 years, recalled several Lakes Seafarers in interviews with the Seafarers LOG. Now signing off their vessels after working well into the new year, Lakes mariners looked back on an exceptionally mild winter in the last few months of '94 and this January. "December and January were unusually mild and we never really had extremely cold weather. It was more like a chilly October," Watchman Ronnie Dandrea told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG. "The St. Clair usually lays up around Christmas, so it was a long season," added the watchman, who signed off the ship last month. The St. Clair sailed until midJanuary when it docked for the winter in Superior Harbor in Duluth, Minn. The 770-foot American Steamship vessel is a self-unloader which primarily carries coal from Superior, Wis. to St. Clair, Mich. for Detroit Edison, a local power company. ii QMED William Coriel pumps the St. Clair's tanks while the vessel docks for the winter at Superior Harbor in Duluth, Minn. St. Clair Gateman Jae Bergstrom took the photos accompanying this story while the SIU crewmembers were preparing their ships for layup Getting ready to clean the St. Clair's in Duluth, Minn. cargo holds one last time before Commodities In Demand winter layup is Gateman Tim It was not only mild weather Frankovich. that contributed to a banner year for U.S.-flag Great Lakes carriers; an unrelenting demand for the iron ore, stone, steel and grain cargoes also kept the Lakers traversing Lakes Michigan, Superior, Erie, Huron and Ontario and calling at such ports as Milwaukee; Marquette, Mich.; Cleveland; Alpena, Mich.; and Rochester, N.Y. QMED Thomas Tucker, who Conveyorman Marvin helped prepare the Sam Laud Schmitz also signed off the St. Clair. He noted that the season's After signing off of the St. Clair for the for layup, notes the March 25 high demand for commodities winter, Conveyorman Marvin opening of the Soo Locks on other than coal caused the Schmitz (left) and Second Cook his calendar before beginning American Steamship vessel to Raymc:md Maynard fill out vacation his winter vacation. visit a number of ports and carry forms in the Duluth hall. different cargoes from the usual. "It was a very busy year, a good year. We went into a lot of different ports and had some cargo changes," said Schmitz. Ronnie's twin brother, Donnie Dandrea, a wiper who also signed off the St. Clair after helping prepare it for the winter layup, said, "It was an exceptionally good season with lots of loads, and with the mild winter it really was incredible. Thank goodness Filling out a change of address for the weather. Last year was so form in the Duluth hall after horrible, and usually it [Lake SuChecki.ng.inwiththeDulu~hunionhall signing off the American perior] is so frozen by now that after signing off the Indiana Harbor Mariner is Porter Edward you can't even move the boats," are Bosun Mark Fraley (left) and OS Ringsred. he added. Brian Surhigh. The Lake Carriers' Association, an organization of U.S.-flag shipping companies on the Lakes, reported that all movement of cargo on the Great Lakes had halted by the end of January. The 1994 navigational season marked a record year-a total of 116 million tons of cargo was moved on the Lakes. Sailing Season Ends "To prepare the St. Clair for winter, we had to put the strings ~mt, which is the process of sec.urmg the boat to the dock usmg cable wires and mooring lines. It _- - - - - Twin brothers AB Ronnie Dandrea (left) and Wiper Donnie Dandrea file for vacation pay at the SIU hall in Duluth, Minn. AB Bill Padgett picks up a form for his annual physical after layup of the Indiana Harbor at Superior Harbor in Duluth, Minn. QMED Glen Lahti makes sure the St. Clair's generator is working properly before signing off for the winter. secures the vessel in order to protect it from strong winds, solid ice and major storms," recalled Ronnie Dandrea. He added that deck department members also must store all safety gear until the spring inspection. At that time, Coast Guard officials come on board to check the quality of the equipment, including life rings, jackets, survival suits, rafts and lifeboat equipment. QMED/Oiler Ricky Couillard recently signed off the Sam Laud, an American Steamship self-unloader that transports mostly stone to various ports in the Great Lakes region. To ready the ship for layup, Couillard and other engine department memhers aboard the Sam Laud performed general engine maintenance work such as rebutting the ballast pump, replacing power packs and clutch work. Seafarers' Winter Plans However short or long the winter break in sailing may be, Seafarers who sail on the Great Lakes intend to take full advantage of their time off. Many members cited spending time with their families as their first priority while others stated their winter days would be spent in solitude-relaxing and doing nothing at all. "I plan to do as little as possible," noted Ronnie Dandrea. "I always look forward to my winter break, but after a few weeks I can't wait to get back to sailing," the watchman said. Jae Bergstom, a gateman from Superior, Wis., noted, ''I look forward to the close of the season because it means I will get to spend time with my family." (Bergstom also took the pictures accompanying this story of crewmembers on board the St. Clair and Indiana Harbor when they arrived for the winter layup in Duluth.) Wheelsman Lowell Amundson, who recently signed off American Steamship's H. Lee White, stated he plans to visit his grandchildren for the winter break. The White was the last vessel on the Lakes to sail through the Soo Locks before they closed for the season on January 15. Fitout Predictions Due to the continued high demand for cargoes on the Great Lakes, combined with the betterthan-average winter conditions, many Seafarers as well as industry represen ta ti ves predict fitout could begin with the reopening of the Soo Locks on March 25. "This was a very good year, and it looks like the 1995 season will be off to a great start," stated Schmitz. "There is a big demand for ore on the Great Lakes now, and I think this will be a short winter for Seafarers on the Lakes. I think we will see fitout in a couple of months. " "I am looking forward to fitout in March. There is just more cargo than in years past, and we need to be there to deliver," said Second Cook Raymond Maynard, who was one of the last crewmembers to sign off the St. Clair after preparing the ship for layup. "Everyone is talking about fitting out in March," said Amundson. Glen Nekvasil of the Lake Carriers' Association said fitout could begin as soon as the locks re-open-which has not always been the case, especially with last year's buildup of ice. "The weather has really been mild, and there have not been any major delays because of ice," Nekvasil told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG. "Because this winter season has been so busy, there is every indication that it will pick up again in March. That doesn't leave us much time for a layup. Even before the season was completely wrapped up, everyone was already looking toward spring-and that is a good sign," he added. �6 SEAFARERS LOG FEBRUARY 1995 comply with the Coast Guard's deadline of December 28, 1994. The requirement of showing ability to pay huge sums particularly is tough for independent operators, because they are not of the American exclusive do not carry hazardous substan- affiliated with parent companies that have vast financial resources. economic zone (which extends ces as cargo. 200 nautical miles off the U.S. It Was Touch and Go Establishing Responsibility coast) to tranship or lighter oil Additionally, because the rule (whether delivering or receiving) Methods for establishing destined for a place subject to the financial responsibility include states that insurers and other jurisdiction of the United States. evidence of insurance, surety providers of financial responThey also apply to all other ves- bond, qualification as a self-in- sibility will be subject to direct acsels using the navigable waters of s urer, guarantee and other tion from claimants, the traditional the U.S. or any port subject to evidence. (Any one or combina- marine liability insurers balked at American jurisdiction (since they tion of these means may be used offering the new coverage. But late last year, two competcarry bunkers which may be by an operator to show proof of ing companies (Shoreline Mutual spilled). ability to pay for spills.) The cost of securing the certificates can be and First Line) were formed which Exempt from the rule are as much as $200,000 per year for offered the coverage to vessel public vessels, including ships a large tanker. owners. In a last-minute rush, owned by the military and hundreds of tanker owners secured private ships bareboat-chartered Due to the costs and com- the certificates before the deadline. by the military; and non-self- plexities involved in obtaining the First Line and Shoreline also certificates, there was concern that are offering coverage for drytanker owners might not be able to cargo vessels. Dry-Cargo Ships, Tank Barges Need COFR 1,000-Plus Tankers Prove Ability to Pay Spill Damages More than 1,000 self-propelled tankers now are in compliance with a federal regulation that requires shipowners and operators to guarantee their capacity to pay for costs and damages resulting from an oil spill or other hazardous materials spill. Tank barges and dry-cargo ships are the next vessels which will need certificates of financial responsibility in order to comply with a U.S. Coast Guard rule that stems from both the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (OPA '90) and the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA), which was passed in 1980. Tank barges must be in compliance by July 1. The date for dry-cargo ships depends on when a particular vessel's existing certificate of financial responsibility, expires, but all vessels must be certified by the end of 1997. According to newspaper reports, as many as 4,000 drycargo ships will need new certificates by the end of this year. Rule Application The financial responsibility requirements are applicable to all owners and operators of U.S. and foreign-flag vessels of more than 300 gross tons that use the waters ===M=a=rt=im=e=B=r=ie=rs==~ll ~:~;;:~:;;::Force Plan Balances la.=1 Coast Guard Rule Would Permit Single-HullTankerlightering •1i1··~1 rD11•t n•a""n•n~n, rn11i•11nment ., •• The U.S. Coast Guard has proposed a rule that would designate . , J . . . V• I . , . l#U~·j :I~ i;~ lightering zones in the Gulf of Mexico in order to alJow single-hull Creating regional dredged efforts, without compromising tankers to off-load oil in that area. material planning groups and environmental protection, to If established, the three lightering zones each would be more than 60 1· d ·f · h h · · f 1 h · · al d miles from the baseline from which the United States' territorial sea is entI ymg t e c aractensttcs 0 reso ve t e navigatwn an ensuccessful federal, state and local vironmental concerns that have measured. Single-hull tankers could lighter within the zones until partnerships for use in planning long stymied the dredging of our January 1, 2015. The operations of double-hull tankers and single-hull tankers con- efforts are among 18 separate nation's ports," Pefia stated in a forming to standards set by the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (OPA '90) recommendations for improving press conference announcing essentially would be unaffected by the proposed rule, since those vessels the dredging process of U.S. release of the report. could continue lightering in traditional areas. Vessels that previously ports. They were issu~ in late "Because 95 percent of were not allowed to operate within the waters of the U.S. exclusive Decemb~r as part of an mteragen- America's foreign commerce is economic zone (which extends 200 nautical miles off the U.S. coast) cy working group, convened by carried by ships and foreign trade percent of our would be permitted to lighter only in the three designated zones-off the Secr~tary _of. Transport~tion accounts for coasts of Texas, Louisiana and Mississippi. Fedenco Pena m 1993, to mves- Gross Domestic Product our tigateandsu~estmeth~ to.ensure ports are vital to our national that the nation can mam~ ~d security and economy," the develoJ? needed port ~a?ty while Secretary of Transportation conBill Introduced to Recognize prot;ectmg and conservmg lillportant tinued. "Yet many ports are loWorld War II Merchant Mariners cated in or near some of our enYironmental resources. One of the first bills introduced this year in the House is one that The report, entitled "The nation's most environmentally would extend World War II veterans status to merchant mariners who Dredging Process in the United sensitive areas such as wetlands, began sailing between August 15, 1945 and December 31, 1946. Sponsored by Rep. Jack Fields (R-Texas), the Merchant Mariners States: An Action Plan for Im- estuaries and associated fisheries, Fairness Bill (H.R. 44)-which is supported by the SIU-would give provement," has two major objec- all of which have economic, veterans status to more than 2,000 retired merchant mariners. The bill, tives: to promote greater certainty recreational and aesthetic value. which has 16 co-sponsors, has been referred to the House Committee on in the dredging project review Coordinated action to resolve Veterans' Affairs. process and to facilitate effective conflicting interests is important H.R. 44 is intended to correct what its backers believe is an obvious long-term strategies for addressing to our national interest." mistake by the U.S. Department of Defense. In 1988, that department named dredging and disposal needs at the August 15, 1945 (the day the Japanese surrendered) as the cutoff date for national and local levels. Six Agencies Comprise Group awarding veterans status to merchant seamen who sailed during World War Chaired by Deputy Maritime Adopted by six federal agenIL This date was selected despite the facts that former President Hany Administrator Joan Yim, the incies, the action plan focuses on Truman declared December 31, 1946 as the official end of World War II teragency group included parhostilities and that military personnel who began serving between August four problem areas: strengthening ticipants from the Maritime the existing planning mechanism, 15, l 945 and December 31, 1946 received war veterans status. enhancing coordination and com- Administration, Army Corps of munication in the dredging ap- Engineers, Environmental p ro v a 1 process, addressing Protection Agency, Fish and scientific uncertainties about Wildlife Service, National Karl Luedtke, president of dredged material and identifying Marine Fisheries Service and OfSIU-contracted Luedtke Enconsistent and efficient ways to fice of Ocean and Coastal gineering Company, which is Resource Management. fund dredging projects. based in Frankfort, Mich., passed Additional representatives to away December 23 due to heart MTD Commends 'First Step' the group came from the White failure. He was 64. The report was welcomed by House Office on Environmental Luedtke Engineering was the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Policy, the Office on Managefounded in 1930 by Karl Department (MTD), representing ment and Budget, the Navy, the Luedtke' s father. Karl joined the 42 affiliated unions whose mem- Department of Transportation, business in 1955, and in 1967 he became president. bers earn their living in marine- the Office of the Secretary and the He was a past president of the Coast Guard. related work. Northern Chapter of the Michigan Other recommendations listed "It is our sincere hope that this Society of Professional EnNational Dredgjng Action Plan in the report include developing gineers, past director of the River will prevent future regulatory public outreach and education Karl Luedtke and Harbor Improvement Asreview logjams," said MTD programs, providing guidance to sociation and past president of the President Michael Sacco, who relevant agencies on opporAmerican Association of Small sister and six grand-children. Dredging and Marine Construction Luedtke maintained an excel- also serves as president of the tunities for using dredged material, updating guidance on Companies. He also was a member lent working relationship with the SIU. of the Society of American Military SIU, recalled Byron Kelley, vice William F. Zenga, National disposal site monitoring requireEngineers and the Permanent Inter- presidentoftheunion's Lakes and Vice President of the MTD, ap- ments, en uring that dredged national Association of Navigation Inland Water Di trict. "I worked plauded the interagency working material management planners Congresses. with him for 25 years. He always group for preparing a report "that work with pollution control agenAdditionally, Luedtke served treated his employees as equals will serve as a basis to improve cies, reviewing federal studies to on the Frankfort School Board of and he was very down-to-earth," the regulations and planning pro- determine whether changes are Education for 20 years (including said Kelley. cedures that now govern dredging needed to better integrate several years as president) and Approximately 60 Seafarers and dredged material disposal economic and environmental obwas co-founder and chairman of are employed by Luedtke Enjectives and revising legislation the board of West Michigan Na- gineering, a full-service marine projects in the U.S." to ensure better planning of tional Bank in Frankfort. "This report responds to Presiconstruction company that operates He is survived by his wife, four throughout the Great Lakes Basin dent Clinton's request last year dredging projects. The list of recommendations children, his mother, brother, and the upper Mississippi River. that federal agencies double their 20 Luedtke President Dies at 64 U, also includes establishing national and regional dredging issues teams, scheduling meetings among interested agencies for potentially controversial dredging projects, developing and distributing a permit application checklist which identifies information required from applicants, developing or revising procedures for coordinating interagency review, establishing a national agreement to clarify roles and coordination mechanisms between agencies and clarifying and improving the guidance used to evaluate contaminants from dredged materials. The action plan additionally suggests looking at ways to identify the practical barriers to managing contaminated sediments and identify a means to reduce the volume of material which must be dredged. The last two recommendations deal with funding: revising the Water Resources Development Act to establish consistent federal and local sponsor cost sharing of dredged material disposal methods and determining the feasibility of a fee for open-water disposal for nonfederal dredgjng projects. In concluding the dredging report, · the interagency group stated its belief that the 18 recommendations (which are not listed in any specific order of importance) represent an approach to the dredging process which recognizes the economic benefits of improving and maintaining U.S. ports and channels and addresses environmental concerns associated with dredging and dredged material disposal. It anticipates that most of the recommen da ti o ns can be initiated immediately. Others may require a bit more time due to needed legislative or regulatory modifications. National and regional dredging teams are expected to replace the current interagency working group and have been given the responsibility for implementing the action plan. Co-chaired by the Army Corps of Engineers and the Environmental Protection Agency, with representatives from the departments of Transportation, Interior and Commerce, the teams are expected to convene early this year. �FEBRUARY 1995 SEAFARERS LOG Boat Operators Need Radar Endorsement February 15 marks the deadline for mariners to comply with a new federal regulation which requires towboat operators to hold a radar-observer endorsement. Issued last November by the U.S. Coast Guard, the rule extends the endorsement requirement to licensed operators and all other pilots of radar-equipped, uninspected towboats which are 26 feet or more in length and which operate on U.S. waterways. Deadline This Month As of February 15, such mariners must have the radar endorsement before testing for original licenses, renewal licenses or upgraded licenses. A provision of the regulation stipulates that mariners who already have a towboat operator's license but no radar endorsement may take a four-hour radar operation course, by February 15, which will result in obtaining a radar certificate that is valid as an endorsement until the mariner's license expires or is renewed or upgraded. (This is a potential time-saver for boatmen, as courses which lead to earning a radar endorsement take anywhere from several days to weeks to complete.) But licensed operators who do not obtain a radar certificate by February 15 must secure a radar endorsement in order to maintain the validity of their respective licenses. In other words, after February 15, operators' licenses will not be valid without the radar endorsement. Three Categories Towboat operators licenses and radar-observer endorsements expire after five years. Since the expiration dates of a mariner's license and his or her radar endorsement may differ, license renewal does not terminate the radar endorsement, which may be renewed at any time. Formerly, only operators of vessels of at least 300 gross tons were required to hold a radar endorsement (known as radar observer/unlimited). But the new regulation added two types of radar endorsements-radar observer/inland and radar observer/rivers-as well as specifying which subject matter must be covered in radar observer courses. Lundeberg School Classes Anticipating the rule and the new categories, the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education included three separate radar observer courses (unlimited, inland and rivers) in its vocational upgrading schedule this year. All are approved by the Coast Guard, as is the four-hour radar operation course which the Paul Hall Center's Lundeberg School has been conducting since November at SIU halls throughout the country (see accompanying article). In fact, the SIU, the Lundeberg School and SIU-contracted companies had a hand in developing the new rule. They participated last year in meetings of the Towing Safety Advisory Committee (TSAC), which is a congressionally mandated group consulted by the Coast Guard on safety matters. The SIU also has testified before Congress that stricter safety regulations governing the inland industry are needed. Rule Stems from Disaster The rule requiring a radar endorsement for towboat operators was spawned by the fatal derailment of Amtrak's Sunset Limited passenger train in September 1993 near Mobile, Ala. Fortyseven people were killed in that disaster, as the train derailed and plunged into the Big Bayou Canot justminutesafterabargepushedby the tugboat MV Mauvilla rammed into a railroad bridge over the bayou, knocking the railroad tracks severely out of alignment. In the wake of the accident, Congress ordered a thorough study of marine safety issues related to uninspected towing vessels . One of the ensuing recommendations called for operators of radar-equipped towing vessels of26 feet or longer to hold radar endorsements. With Training at the Lundeberg School In classes held at union halls, the Paul Hall Center is assisting SIU tugboatmen, such as the Norfolk-based Seafarers above, to obtain a radar-observer certification that will run concurrently with their present towboat operator's license. Port Courses Enable SIU Boatmen To Meet Feb. 15 Radar Deadline In response to new federal rules which require towboat operators to possess a radar-observer endorsement, the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education last month continued its series of port-to-port radar operation courses. The four-hour class, conducted by the Paul Hall Center's Lundeberg School, was held at SIU halls in Norfolk, Va.; Philadelphia; Mobile, Ala.; New Orleans (twice); Wilmington, Calif.; Algonac, Mich.; Jacksonville, Fla.; and at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. The course also was taught at the SIU hall in Houston late last year. Additional classes are scheduled to take place this month at the SIU hall in San Juan, P.R. (Feb. 2 and 6) and at Piney Point (dates to be determined). Upon completing the fourhour course, Seafarers receive a radar certificate which is valid as an endorsement until his or her operator's license expires or is renewed or upgraded. However, in accordance with the new regulation, the four-hour course will not be available after February 15. Informative and Convenient Similarly, Jerry Stillman, a pilot boat operator who sails with the Maryland Pilots Association, said that the classroom-style course in Norfolk helped build on his knowledge. "We already do a lot of the (radar) work in our heads, but it's nice to actually see it on a board," he stated. "It brought to life what a lot of guys had taken for granted." Also taking the class in Norfolk was Captain Raymond Charnock, an employee of Piney Point Transportation. "I enjoyed all of it. Even with 25 years of experience, you learn something new every day, and this helped me," said Charnock. Course Well-Received Seafarers who took the course in Mobile also praised its content. "It was really, really helpful and everyone got something out of it," said Captain Joe Tucker, who sails with Crescent Towing. "The presentation was done so that everyone could understand all the information, and I appreciate the union bringing (the class) to us." Said Doug McClure, a boat operator with Pilot Service Corporation, "It was very educational, and everyone from Pi lot Service got to attend. The information is something we will use each time we look at a radar screen." To the north, Deckhand Larry Potts, who attended the class at the Philadelphia hall, said the instructors were thorough and accurate. ''They went over everything and it was very clear. It was geared toward practical aspects of when you're looking at the screen, rather than plotting, blind spots, etc.," said Potts, who works for Turecamo Coast/Harbor Towing Corp. He added that the course content is extremely important: "You might only need to use that knowledge once or twice, but you'll need it badly." 7 �B FEBRUARY 1995 SEAFARERS LOG SIU Asks Court to Void APL Flag-Out Waiver Continued from page 3 serviced by its subsidized U.S. containerships. The lawsuit of the unions, which represent unlicensed crewmembers working aboard APL vessels, points out that APL' s submission to MarAd requesting the waiver admits that the new C-11 cargo vessels will be used as "'replacements for the over-age or inadequate vessels in our present fleet."' APL currently receives operating differential subsidy (ODS) from the government for its 19 U.S.-flag containerships. These funds, which will expire in 1997, allow the company's vessels to compete with foreign-flag ships that are crewed by seamen paid substantially less than American mariners and that do not have to meet U.S. government-mandated safety, construction, tax and environmental standards. Additionally, the foreign-flag liner companies generally are subsidized by their governments or are under government control. foreign-flag vessels on an essential service not only in directcompetition with its subsidized U.S.-flag fleet, but also to replace those taxpayer subsidized vessels, and crews, with foreign vessels and foreign crews," the unions contend in their courtfiled document. in an actual national emergency, and foreign crews have no allegiance to the United States that would suggest their willingness to put themselves in harm's way in defense of, to them, a foreign country." For example, the unions point to APL' s recent announcement that the company had contracted with a Cypriot ship management group to operate and crew the new C-1 ls. Such an arrangement suggests that in the event of an American military conflict, APL will not have direct control of its vessels or have available a pool of seafarers responsible to the company and the United States to operate the ships in dangerous zones. The unions' lawsuit asks the court to overturn MarAd' s decision because the agency erred in allowing APL to operate foreign-flag ships that would compete against its govemmentsubsidized U.S.-flag vessels; a decision that was contrary to U.S. law and regulations. The court filing argues that MarAd made its decision with insufficient findings and without due process. It also states that the MarAd's granting of the waiver exceeded the agency's powers. The lawsuit seeks a court order declaring the waiver granted to APL to be null and void. The lawsuit has been assigned to Judge Stanley S. Harris. The next move in the court case is APL' s. The company must answer the SIU' s lawsuit charges and file those responses with the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia. Budget-Driven Congress Looks at Food Aid Cuts Ship Groups Join Coalition to Keep U.S. Foreign Assistance Programs Surplus American commodities that in the past have been purchased by the U .S . government, donated to impoverished citizens in underdeveloped nations and, for the most part, shipped on U.S.-flag vessels, may no longer find their way across the seas if budget-cutting legislators succeed in slashing funds for these food aid programs. Joining together to fight cuts to foreign food assistance programs are volunteer relief agencies such as CARE and Catholic Relief Services, U.S. agricultural interests and American maritime organizations, including the SIU. Under the banner "Alliance for Food Aid," the groups are urging congressmen and senators to maintain funding for the surplus commodities foreign assistance programs, which are known as P.L. 480, section 416 and Food for Progress. Agricultural Act of 1949. Under this provision of the law, bulk food stuffs, such as grain, are given to needy countries. The Food for Progress program stems from the Food for Progress Act of 1985. It donates food commodities in exchange for pledges from the recipient governments that steps will be undertaken to MarAd Had Other Options advance their countries' agriculThe unions' lawsuit points out tural markets and entrepreneurs. that Mar Ad had other options Other laws govern how the than to grant APL a waiver to government-donated food aid is operate the new cargo carriers transported to the receiving party. under foreign ship registries. For These are cargo preference laws, example, MarAd could have inwhich require that a certain percluded the six containerships centage of U.S. government carunder APL's current ODS congoes be carried on American-flag tract and eliminate the subsidies vessels. The Cargo Preference of certain older vessels in its fleet, Act of 1954 (which amended the the lawsuit states. Merchant Marine Act of 1936) esAnother aspect of the decision tablished that at a minimum, 50 to allow the flag-out came under percent of American government attack in the unions' lawsuit. As cargoes must be shipped by part of its rationale for allowing privately-operated U.S. carriers, the exemption, MarAd stated that with the exemption of Department unless the waiver was granted of Defense supplies, 100 percent of pro mp ti y, "the new vessels would Developing Nations Benefit which must be transported on likely be sold to a foreign owner P.L. 480, also known as the American-flag ships. upon delivery beginning in May Agricultural Trade Development 1995 with the result that the Shipped on U.S. Carriers and Assistance Act of 1954, con'An Anathema' to the Act United States would have no sists of three programs. The first, In 1985, during Congress' The effect of the waiver ready access to the vessels in time title I, extends grants to lesser debate on the comprehensive packgranted by MarAd "is to per- of national emergency." developed nations that are in tum age of agricultural initiatives mit...the driving out of subsidized used to buy American-grown or known as the farm bill, that is taken What Really Happens U.S.-flag vessels" on two essenproduced food. Title II, the up by the elected officials every In strong language, the unions' tial trade routes, states the SIU second program under P.L. 480, five years, the Merchant Marine lawsuit counters that "it should be suit. "The waiver provision of donates U.S. commodities to Act of 1936 again was amended, Section 804 was not intended to self-evident that the way to endeveloping countries. These food this time upping the minimum perof vessels in sure the availability allow APL foreign-flag vessels to products are then distributed centage of agricultural foreign aid compete directly with APL U.S.- national emergencies is for those through voluntary relief agencies. cargoes to be transported on US.flag vessels on taxpayer sub- vessels to be U.S.-flag vessels Title III calls for funds to govern- flag ships to 75. sidized routes," the lawsuit notes. manned by U.S. crews, not ments of underdeveloped nations foreign-flag vessels manned by "It is an anathema to the entire The total amount of funds althat are used to promote advances premise of the Act that a sub- foreign crews, particularly when located to P.L. 480 and section in those countries agricultural sidized U.S.-flag operator would the governments of those foreign416 programs was $1.6 billion in systems. be given permission to operate flag vessels may prohibit their use Section 416 is a part of the fiscal year 1994. For fiscal year 1995, $1.3 billion is slated. The Alliance for Food Aid has noted that the amount of funds allocated for these programs has decreased substantially in the past few years. The Alliance points to fiscal year 1993 funding which Continued from page 3 stood at $2.3 billion. tions assigned to the National matters handled by each commit- policies. He also stated that while the Committee, chaired by Rep. Don Security Committee, Transporta- tee and subcommittee. A ruling SIU opposed the dismantling of Food Aid: Double Benefits Young (R-Alaska). Its Fisheries, tion and Infrastructure Commit- from the parliamentarian is exthe House Merchant Marine and The coalition group, in its tee and Public Lands and pected shortly. Wildlife and Oceans SubcommitNoting that maritime issues Fisheries Committee, the union commu~ications to repretee, operating under Rep. Jim Resources Committee, as outSaxton's (R-N.J.) hand, will take lined in this article, have one will be handled by committees views the transfer of maritime is- sentatives and senators, notes that more formal step to take in the that will be concerned with many sues to the National Security the food assistance programs not up fisheries legislation. House. The chamber's par- other subjects, SIU President Committee as a positive develop- only increase good will towards House Changes: One More Step liamentarian will make a final Michael Sacco noted that the ment. 'The new Congress' action the United States and its citizens The maritime-related jurisdic- determination on the specific union has a big job to do educat- demonstrates a strong under- among the poor of lesser ing the congressmen and senators standing of the essential role of the developed countries, but also who have new responsibilities merchant marine in the nation's serve American interests as well. Senate Commerce, Science overseeing the nation's shipping defense strategy," Sacco said. The funds allocated to P.L. 480, and Transportation Committee . - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - .!section 416 and Food for Progress Maritime Jurisdiction Distributed in House; Senate Merges Marine, Transport Subcommittees The Senate Commerce Committee has jurisdiction over maritimelegislation. The Committee's subcommittee on surface transportation and merchant marine is charged with the responsibility of first working with a maritime-related bill, before it goes before the full Commerce Committee. Listed below are the 104th Congress' members of the Commerce Committee and its Merchant Marine and Surface Transportation Subcommittee (in bold): ori~nted REPUBLICANS Larry Pressler (S.D.), Chmn. Trent Lott (Miss.) Subcommittee Chmn. Bob Packwood (Ore.) Ted Stevens (Alaska) John McCain (Ariz.) Conrad Burns (Mont.) Slade Gorton (Wash.) Kay Bailey Hutchison (Texas) Olympia Snowe (Maine) John Ashcroft (Mo.) Natl·onal Securi·ty Commi·ttee • Pl an T0 Propose U.S. Sh Ip Continued from page 3 DEMOCRATS Ernest F. Hollings (S.C.), Ranking Member sustaining the country's military sealift capabilities." National Security Committee Chairman Floyd D. Spen~e (RDaniel K. Inouye (Hawaii), S.C.) announ~ed the creat10n ?f Subcommittee Ranking the P.anel dunng t~e first pub~1c Member meetm~ of the National Secunty Wendell H. Ford (Ky.) Committee o!1 January 10. The J. James Exon (Neb.) panel also will l?ok ~t .ways to John D. "Jay" Rockefeller (W.Va. help the U.S. sh1pbm~dmg proJohn F. Kerry (Mass.) gram. ~~teman, a longtime fnend John Breaux (La.) of m~tlme,. rel?resents ~he conRichard Bryan (Nev.) gress10nal d1stnct that mcludes Byron L. Dorgan (N.D.) a!1d .the the port of Norfolk, Ne~port News Sh1pbu1ldrng facility. --------------------------J ya. Joining Bateman on the panel is Rep. Randy "Duke" Cunningham (R-Calif.), who has been named as its vice chairman. Other members of the bipartisan panel are expected to be anounced later this month. An organizational meeting will be held shortly after the panel is named. The National Security Committee has jurisdiction over legislation dealing with the national security aspects of the U.S. merchant marine, including financial assistance for the construction and operation of vessels, as well as the maintenance of U.S. shipbuilding and ship repair industry. programs are. in effect, recycled in the American economy, the Allianceargues. By purchasing surplus American agricultural commodities, such as seed oils, grains, and other foods, U.S. farmers and related industries benefit By shipping the goods on American-flag vessels, the nation's merchant marine is strengthened, which contributes to U.S. sealift capacity, supports U.S.-owned companies and keeps seafaring jobs for American citizens. The Alliance for Food Aid's efforts to halt cuts in the nation's foreign food assistance programs are presently directed to members of the House Budget Committee, which is considering ways in which to reduce federal spending. �FEBRUARY 1995 SEAFARERS LOG Marmo Dies, Was Head of Vacation Plan Andy Marmo, vacation and records supervisor for the SIU, died December 20, 1994 due to complications involving his illness with cancer. He was 44 years old. Born in Brooklyn, N.Y., he began his career with the Seafarers in June 1981 asaclaims processor when SIU headquarters was located at 675 4th Avenue in his native city. When the union moved its headquarters from New York to Camp Springs, Md. in 1982, Marmo moved to Alexandria, Va. to be near the new location. Marmo continued working with the claims department until he became assistant coordinator of the Seafarers Vacation Plan late in 1982. In January 1991, Marmo took over the position of supervisor of vacations and records, a position in which he served until the time of his death. "Andy Manno will be sorely missed," said SIU President Michael Sacco. "He stuck with the union, moving when he had to. He was hardworking and conscientious, and he cared about the Seafarers he was serving." He was known simply as "Andy" to the many Seafarers who called headquarters about filing their vacation claims. "Andy was always there when you needed help. He was always there and never asked for anything in return. He always treated Louisiana-Based WWII Mariners Eligible for State Bonus of $250 As a result of legislation enacted by the Louisiana legislature and signed into law by the state's governor, World War II merchant mariners who sailed at any time from September 16, 1940 through July 25, 1947 and who resided in the state when they began their war service are eligible for a one-time bonus of $250. Surviving spouses of Louisiana-based WWII seamen also can receive the payment if their husband or wife died between September 16, 1940 and July 25, 1947 due to war-related causes. A Matter of Fairness Andy Marmo the members with respect," QMED Charlie Clausen of New York told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG. Although Marmo never married nor had children of his own, he held a special love for children. In considering this, his family has set up a memorial at the Children's Hospital in Washington, D.C. Donations in memory of Andy Marmo may be sent to Joyce Buck, Children's Hospital Foundation, P.O. Box 91896, Washington, D.C. 20090. Following a funeral service, burial took place in St. Mary's cemetery in Alexandria Marmo is survived by his father, Anthony, sisters Catherine and Betty and brothers Tony and Martin Marmo. The law which made the bonus possible was introduced by Louisiana House representatives Ken Odinet (D-Arabi), John Siracusa (D-Morgan City) and Frank Patti (D-Belle Chasse). The bill got its start when a "constituent who had been a merchant mariner came by and asked why the state didn't recognize seamen's World War II service now that the federal government did," said Representative Odinet. Odinet quickly moved to rectify the situation, introducing a bill in the House calling for a veterans benefit of $250 for Louisiana WWII seamen. The Louisiana House held hearings on the legislation in April 1993; the Senate did the same in May. Each branch of the legislature quickly passed the bill, and Governor Edwin Edwards approved the measure on May 26, 1993. Advancing the interests of WWII seamen strikes a cord for Odinet "I had an uncle who was a mariner on an Esso tanker.... He was the vessel's master." His ship, the SS Benjamin Brewster, was sunk by the Germans at the mouth of the river outside New Orleans. The high octane cargo caught fire and everyone aboard died, Odinet recalled. After the bonus bill was enacted, the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs established the procedures for making a bonus application. The agency began receiving applications for the onetime payment on July 1, 1994. It will continue to accept bonus requests until July 1, 1999. To apply for the $250 bonus, a mariner who believes he or she is qualified, or a surviving spouse of a Louisiana-based seaman who died in wwn merchant marine-related activities, should obtain an application form from the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs. The form is available by writing the department at Bonus Division; P.O. Box 94095; Capitol Station; Baton Rouge, LA 70804-9095; or calling (504) 922-0500 or sending a facsimile transmission to (504) 922-0511. The application form asks, among other questions, if the merchant mariner was "a citizen of Louisiana at time of entry into the merchant marine." It asks if the seaman sailed between September 16, 1940 and July 25, 1947. When the application is sent to the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs, it should be accompanied by proof of state residency at the time the seaman began first started shipping and a copy of a discharge document (such as DD 214, copy 4 or 6, or the equivalent). A spouse who has survived his or her merchant seaman husband or wife must include proof that the mariner died of a war-connected incident between September 16, 1940 and July 25, 1947. A surviving spouse also can attach proof that the· seaman was disabled due to merchant marine service (DD 1300 or the equivalent). Louisiana WWII Mariners' Bonus Eligibility: A seaman who resided in Louisiana when he began shipping and who sailed between September 16, 1940 and July 25, 1947. A surviving spouse of a seaman who meets the above-listed qualifications and who died or was disabled in warrelated experience. Application: Obtain an application form from the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs; Bonus Division; P.O. Box 94095; Capitol Station; Baton, Rouge, LA 70804-9095; or call (504) 922-0500 or fax (504) 922-0511 and request the material. Applications must be submitted by July Deadline: 1, 1999. Retired Bosun Dawson, Veteran of 4 Wars, Maintains Push for Strong U.S-Flag Fleet Bill Dawson may have retired from sailing in 1991, but he isn't about to stop taking part in union activities. A career merchant mariner who sailed during four wars, Dawson remains a vocal , active supporter of the SIU and of the U.S .-flag merchant fleet. The 64year-old resident of Norfolk, Va. is particularly interested in politics, because, he says, he believes the future of the American merchant marine directly is tied to lawmakers' decisions on Capitol Hill. "If we get the right politicians in office, we can save the U.S.flag fleet," says Dawson, who last year volunteered his time to campaign for pro-maritime candidates Senator Chuck Robb (D-Va.) and Rep. Herbert Bateman (R-Va.). "It's obvious we need to keep jobs in this country, and by now it should be obvious that we need (an American) merchant marine during wars. As the saying goes, we deliver the goods .... Maybe one day the politicians will wake up and realize that they do need an American merchant marine." Indeed, Dawson knows firsthand the active roles played by the U.S. merchant marine in support of U.S. armed forces during World War II, the Korean conflict, the Vietnam War and the Persian Gulf War. He and his fellow crewmembers aboard the Cape Ann (his final ship) were commended by the U.S. Navy for their performance during Operations Desert Shield/Desert Storm. As a charter member of the U.S. Merchant Marine Veterans of World War IT, Dawson espouses the belief that the Allied war effort would not have succeeded without the U.S. merchant marine. Of course, behind the wartime medals and commendations are grim tales of sacrifice. "I remember a time in Inchon (Korea), a landing barge took a direct hit," Dawson rec~lls. "I was sailin~ on the Duke Victory, a Bull Lmes ship, and we lowered a lifeboat and saved five men. I'm glad we sav~d them, but that was an expenence I. n~ver want to go through agam. Early Start The Sgt. Matej Kocakwas one of three Waterman Steamship vessels to participate in 'Dynamic Impact,' a recent U.S. military exercise in Turkey. The ship then sailed to Crete, where this photo of the deck department was taken. From the left are AB Reeves Homby (who sent this photo to the LOG), 3rd Mate Michael Dougherty, AB Otto Borden, Chief Mate Robert Ford, AB John Thomas, AB Gary Vargas, AB Steve Sylvia, 2nd Mate William Frappier, AB Frank Hedge, Military Liaison Gail M. Becker and Bosun Angelo Urti. But neither the dangers of war nor the date on his birth certificate could stop Dawson from shipping out in 1944-at age 14. "My whole family was either ship pilots or merchant mariners, so I knew what I wanted to do. When I was 14, I was big for my age. I could easily pass for 18, and I didn't have any trouble/' he remembers. Dawson describes his career as satisfying and says one of the highlights was completing the bosun recertification course at the Paul Hall Center in 1987. "Sailing was the only thing I knew," he adds. "It was born in me. It was Brother Dawson attends the monthly membership meetings in Piney Point, Md. and Norfolk, Va. my profession and I was proud of it, and if I had to do it all again, I'd be sailing." Worldwide travel is one of the things Dawson says he misses, but he has not had an abundance of idle time since retiring. He attends virtually all of the monthly membership meetings at the SIU hall in Norfolk and at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. He also walks the half-block from his home to the Norfolk hall almost every day, where he visits former shipmates and stays abreast of union news. In addition, Dawson is active in the Greater Tidewater Central Labor Council. "Being a Seafarer doesn't end when you stop sailing," Dawson concludes. "I look at this as a lifetime commitment, and I'm proud to be part of the union." 9 �10 FEBRUARY 1995 SEAFARERS LOG Seafarers Praise New Tanker Safety Course Paul Hall Center's Four-Week Class Is Rigorous but 'Worth the Time' Ten Seafarers last month became the first group to complete the full-length tanker operation/safety course at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. The four-week class, which blends hands-on training and classroom instruction, is open to all Seafarers and is required of all SIU members who sail on tankers. SIU members who took the course described it as valuable, informative and challenging. "There's a lot of material to cover. I expanded my knowledge of OPA '90, proper safety equipment and IG (inert gas) systems (which are used to lower the explosive limits in tanks)," said OMU Tom Steinke, who most recently sailed on the Overseas Alaska. Steinke, 37, also stated that the confined-space safety practical training was "very, very good" and that he gained valuable knowledge about deck operations. "I've got a much better idea of what's going on above the engineroom, and that can only help." Bosun Mike Galbraith, 39, who graduated from the Lundeberg School in 1977, said he was "surprised at the volume of material. Learning how to use the Chemical Data Guide and the Emergency Response Guidebook was particularly helpful. The course as a whole will help me when I go back on the tankers." (The Chemical Data Guide for Bulk Shipment by Water and the Emergency Response Guidebook both are published by the U.S. Department of Transportation and in part were created as aids for mariners.) Full Curriculum Galbraith, Steinke and their classmates were introduced to the chemical and physical properties of petroleum products, along with flammability traits, toxicity/asphyxiation characteristics and health hazards associated with exposure to petroleum products. They reviewed how to correctly monitor tanks for oxygen deficiency and take other meter readings with atmospheric monitoring equipment. Other topics and exercises included: • Creating site-specific shipboard safety plans. • Reviewing final rules on benzene products. • Troubleshooting and basic maintenance of monitoring gear. • Extensive confined-space safety training and rescue operations aboard the Empress II, the Lunde berg School's modem training barge. • Fit-tests using respirators and other breathing apparatus and emergency equipment. • An introduction to fire chemistry and other aspects of firefighting, including fire hazard awareness and iden- A course highlight for a number of students was the confined-space Part of the four-week course teaches students how to use the proper safety training (shown in photo above), involving simulated rescues protective gear for a specific job. of incapacitated crewmembers. tification; fire prevention via vapor control; fire prevention by ignition source control; fire extinguishing equipment; firefighting techniques and fire/emergency duties. • Tanker construction and safety. Additional areas of study included different types of oils, medical surveillance, vessel oil pollution prevention, national pollution contingency plans, water pollution, water program requirements and removal of oil and other hazardous substances. Students also covered regional oil removal contingency plans; rules for protecting the marine environment; vessel pollution prevention equipment design and approval requirements; site safety, organization and coordination and more. "I encourage all of my fellow two-week pilot course in OcElectrician/Oiler Tom tober, and their input was utilSnead said that the hands-on members to take the course." training proved particularly useful and also commended the Lundeberg School instructors. "Testing spaces for combustibility and toxicity was one of the best parts of the course," said the 27-year-oldSeafarer. "I got a lot out of the practical wo_rk, and overall I learned quite a bit." Second Pumpman/OMU Jose Martin Ramirez, 3 9, stated that the bottom line on the tanker operation/safety class is that "it will help us do our jobs better, increase our knowledge about safety and operations. In the long run, it's better for us and for the companies. Response to OPA '90 Establishment of the course was agreed upon during negotiations between the union and SIU-contracted tanker companies. Developed in response to the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (OPA '90) by Lundeberg School instructors, the class represents "an ongoing effort to promote safety and efficiency aboard SIU-contracted tank vessels," noted Augie Tellez, SIU vice president for collective bargaining. Six Seafarers and four members of the American Maritime Officers (AMO) completed a ized to help curriculum. refine the The SIU members who in January took the four-week course also offered critiques, as wiil members of future classes. "Later this year, we']] probably meet again with representatives of the (SIU-contracted) tanker companies to further hone the course content," noted Lundeberg School instructor Jim Shaffer, who teaches a segment of the tanker operation/safety course. "Students' input also will be an important consideration as we continue fine-tuning the curriculum." Everyone Benefits Chief Steward Dorothy Barnes said she believes her fellow galley gang members will benefit from the new course. "It's an excellent opportunity for members of the steward department. It makes you aware of different hazards and what you' re really dealing with on tankers," said Barnes, who has upgraded several times at Piney Point. A 13-year member of the SIU, Barnes added that the class "was more than worth my time and effort, you better believe it. The hazmat and oil spill training taught me a lot, I learned how to check for gases, and the rescue Seafarers who completed the tanker operation/safety course are (from left) Ben Cusic (instructor), Larry simulation on the Empress was Watson, Thomas Steinke, George Dehlmar, Tom Stead, Michael Galbraith, Dorothy Barnes, William valuable." Foley, Edward Rynberg, Jose Martin Ramirez, Nester Valentin Martinez and Jake Karaczynski (instructor). �FEBRUARY 1995 SEAFARERS LOG TAX TIPS 11 SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT FOR SEAMEN SEAftflREBS Preparing a tax return for the U.S. Internal Revenue Service can be a difficult job, particularly if you are a seaman away from home in the months leading up to the filing deadline-April 17, 1995. Presented on this page and the following three are handy tax tips that have been prepared especially for seamen. Mariners will find information on filing for extensions, which overseas U.S. embassies have tax information, state tax requirements and much more. The LOG welcomes comments from Sea/arers on this guide so that future tax tips for seamen can continue to provide helpful information. WHICH RECORDS TO KEEP Keep records of income (such as receipts), deductions (for example, canceled checks) and credits shown on the tax return, as well as any worksheets used to figure them, until the statute of limitations runs out for that return, usually 3 years from the date the return was due or filed, or 2 years from the date the tax was paid, whichever is later. However, it is recommended that all records be kept for about 6 years. Change of Address: If an individual has changed his or her address from the one listed on that person's last tax return, IRS Form 8822 should be filled out and filed with the agency. Death of a Taxpayer: If a taxpayer died before filing a required return for 1994, the taxpayer's personal representative (and spouse, in the case of a joint return) must file and sign the return for that person. A personal representative can be an executor, administrator or anyone who is in charge of the taxpayer's property. rm liiiiiiiil WHATTODO WHEN OVERSEAS AT TAX TIME Should a seaman find himself or herself overseas and seeking IRS forms or IRS assistance, U.S. embassies and consulates are equipped to provide some taxpayer-related services. At a minimum, IRS forms are available at all U.S. embassies and consulates. The U.S. embassies and consulates located in the following cities can provide IRS assistance: Bonn, Germany; Caracas, Venezuela; London, England; Mexico City, Mexico; Nassau, Bahamas; Ottawa, Canada; Paris, France; Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; Rome, Italy; Sao Paulo, Brazil; Sydney, Australia, and Tokyo, Japan. WHAT ARE CONSIDERED DEDUCTIONS AND CREDITS Personal Exemption Amount: The est, insurance, taxes, licenses, maintenance, repairs, deduction for each exemption-for the individual, hjs or her spouse and dependents has increased to $2,450 per person. In 1994, the exemption deduction for high income taxpayers may be reduced or eliminated if their adjusted gross income exceeds certain threshold amounts. Standard Deducation Has Increased: The standard deduction, or dollar amount that reduces the amount that is taxed, has increased for most people (see box below to the right). Because of this increase, it may be to an individual's benefit to take the standard deduction this year even if that person has itemized deductions in the past. Personal Interest Deductions: For 1994, personal interest cannot be deducted. Personal interest includes interest on car loans, credit cards and personal loans. Interest on Secured Loans Deductible: Interest paid on mortgages or secured loans is 100 percent deductible. Union Dues Deduction: Union dues, including working dues, are deductible only if they exceed 2 percent of adjusted gross income. If they do, only the portion over the 2 percent is deductible. SPAD contributions have never been deductible. Deducting Work-Related Expenses: Expenses associated with a seaman's work may be considered tax deductible. However, no expense can be deducted for which a seaman has been reimbursed by the employer. Travel to the union hall to register or travel to the union's designated medical facility to take the required physical and drug tests are examples of expenses which are workrelated but not reimbursed by the company. Members of the galley crew may deduct the costs of knives and other equipment they personally own but use when on a ship performing their work duties. The purchase of work-related clothing and other gear, as long as it is truly for work and not paid for by the employer, are likely to be considered tax-deductible. Deducting Work-Related Car Expenses: Use of a personally-owned automobile in work-related travel can result in deductible expenses. Two methods can be used to compute automobile expenses--either listing a standard mileage rate or determining actual cost. On the tax return due April 15 of this year, the IRS is accepting a standard mileage rate of 29 cents per mile. Parking fees and tolls can be added when using the standard mileage rate. If using actual expenses, information must be available on all operating-related costs for the vehicle, including inter- depreciation, gas, oil, tolls and parking. In either the standard mileage rate or the actual cost method of determining car expenses, accurate records should be kept. The IRS recommends keeping a log book or diary listing all expenses related to travel. Only work-related expenses not reimbursed by an employer can be claimed. Deducting Work-Related Meals When Traveling: Workers in transportation are allowed a special rate on the meal allowance of $32 per day in the continental U.S. and $36 per day outside the continential U.S. Otherwise the IRS standard meal allowance is generally $28. In some locations it is $36, and in Hawaii and Alaska it is computed differently. Travel expenses, including meals, can only be deducted if directly related to one's work and if they have not been reimbursed from any other source. Limit on Itemized Deductions: In 1994, itemized deductions may be limited for individuals earning more than $111,800 of federal adjusted gross income (or $55,900 if married and filing separately). Earned Income Credit: A refundable earned income credit (EiC) is available to certain low income individuals who have earned income and meet certain adjusted gross income thresholds. Effective for tax year 1994, an individual does not have to have a qualifying child to be eligible for this credit if certain conditions are met. Different credit percentages and phase-out percentages are provided based on the taxpayer's income level and the number of qualifying children eligible, if any. The maximum credit allowed is as follows: Taxpayers with income less than $9,000 and no qualifying children - $306 maximum credit; taxpayers with income less than $23,750 and with 1 qualifying child - $2,038 maximum credit; taxpayers with income less than $25,296 and with 2 or more qualifying children - $2,528 maximum credit. If the earned income credit reduces the income tax liability below iero, a refund will be granted by the IRS. Taxpayers should use form 1040, schedule EiC to see if they are eligible for the credit. Dependent's Social Security Number: If an individual claims an exemption for a dependent who is at least 1 year old by December 31, 1994, he must list the dependent's social security number on Form 1040 or Form 1040A. A social security number requirement applies to all dependents (not just children) cJaimed on the tax return who are at least 1 year old. WHERETO GET INFORMATION General Information: 1-800-829-1040 can be called for general information. IRS staff answer questions from 8:00 a.m. to 4: 15 p.m. Monday through Friday. Publications: 1-800-829-3676 operators will take orders for publications. "#17 Your Federal Income Tax" and "#552 Record Keeping for Individuals" are two publications that many people find especially useful. Walk-In Help: IRS representatives are available in many IRS offices around the country to help with tax questions that cannot be answered easily by telephone. To find the location of an IRS office, look in the phone book under "United States Government, Internal Revenue Service." Telephone Help: The IRS is prepared to answer questions by phone. Through the agency's taxpayer information service, publications covering all aspects of tax-filing can be ordered. The federal Tele-Tax system has recorded tax information covering more than 18 major topics. 1-800-829-4477 is the IRS' s automated Tele-Tax system. When calling from a touch tone phone, the letter "R" or number "7'' will repeat the topic and the letter "C" or number "2" will cancel the message. To listen to a directory of topics after the introductory message finishes, dial 123. This telephone service is available from 7:00 a.m. until 11 :30 p.m. Send IRS Written Questions: Written questions regarding the tax returns can be sent directly to an IRS District Director (see page 12 for the addresses of IRS regional offices). Include a social security number with the letter. STANDARD DEDUCTIONS This is the standard deduction chart for most people. If a taxpayer is 65 or older or blind, there are additional standard deductions. (Note that the personal exemption deduction is $2,450.) Filing Status Standard Deduction Single. $3,800 Married filing joint return or Qualifying widow( er) $6,350 Married filing separate return . . $3,175 Head of household $5,600 �12 SEAFARERS LOG FEBRUARY 1995 NOTICES OF INCOME RECEIVED Employer W-2's: Employers are required to mail W-2 forms to employees by January 31, 1995. If an individual believes he or she is missing W-2's, contact the employer. For seamen who have used a union hall as a return address, check with the SIU port agent to determine if a W-2 has been sent to that address. Seafarers Vacation Plan W-2's: If a Seafarer has received monies from the SIU Vacation Plan (SVP), he or she should receive a W-2 from that fund. Seafarers who have received SVP monies but who have not received a W-2 from the plan should contact their union hall or call Ms. Peggy Page at the SVP office in Camp Springs, Md.: (301) 899-0675, ext. 4353. Unemployment Compensation-1099-G: Unemployment compensation (insurance) is fully taxable. By January 31, 1995, an individual who has received unemployment compensation should receive a Form 1099-G showing the total unemployment compensation paid during 1994. Use line 20 on the tax return to report unemployment compensation. H • WHICH INCOME NEED NOT BE REPORTED The following kinds of income do not need to be reported on the federal tax return: Benefits from government welfare programs. Jones Act settlements for injuries, pain, suffering, medical costs. Maintenance and Cure. Workers' compensation benefits, insurance damages , etc. for injury or sickness. Disability retirement payments (and other benefits) paid by the Veterans ' Administration. Child support. Gifts, money or other property inherited or willed. Dividends on veterans' life insurance. Life insurance proceeds received because of a person' s death. Amounts received from insurance because ofloss of the use of a home due to fire or other casualty to the extent the amounts were more than the cost of normal expenses while living in the home. Certain amounts received as a scholarship. rn B WHICH INCOME TO REPORT In addition to wages, sa1aries, tips, unemployment compensation, capital gains, dividend payments and other income listed on the federal tax return, the following kinds of income must be reported. Amounts received in place of wages from accident and health plans (including sick pay and disability pensions) if employer paid for the policy. Life insurance proceeds from a policy cashed in if the proceeds are more than the premium paid. Wages , salaries, tips, etc. Allocated tips (box 8) Dependent care benefits (box 10) Gambling winnings (box 1) Mortgage interest Points paid on a mortgage (box 2) Stocks, bonds, etc . (box 2) Canceled debt {box 2) Ordinary dividends (box 1b) Capital gain distributions (box 1c) W-2 W-2 W-2 W-2G 1098 1098 1099-B 1099-C 1099-DIV 1099-DIV Investment expenses 1099-DIV Unemployment compensation (box 1) 1099-G 1099-G State or local income tax refund (box 2) 1099-INT Interest income (box 1) 1099-INT Early withdrawal penalty (box 2) 1099-INT Interest on U.S. savings bonds and Treasury obligations (box 3) 1099-MISC Other income 1099-R Distributions from IRAs Distributions from pensions, annuities, etc. 1099-R Capital gain (box 3) 1099-R Gross proceeds from real estate transactions (box 2) 1099-S Buyer's part of real estate tax 1099-S *NOTE: If you have not received this form, please (e.g., employer, bank, etc.) Income Records. These include any Forms W-2, W-2G and 1099. Itemized deductions and tax credits. Medical and dental payment records. Real estate and personal property tax receipts. Interest payments records for items such as a home mortgage or home equity loan. Records of payments for child care so an individual could work. Step 2. Get any forms, schedules or publications necessary to assist Original Issue Discount. in filing the return. IRS Publication 17 entitled "Your Federal Income Tax for Use in Preparing 1994 Returns" is the most comprehensive guide the agency has issued this year. Most IRS offices and many local banks, post offices and libraries have publications designed to provide individuals with information on correctly filing tax returns. Step 3. Fill in the return. Step 4. Check the return to make sure it is correct. Distributions from self-employed plans. Step 5. Sign and date the return. Form 1040 is not considered a valid Profits from corporations, partnerships, estates and trusts. Endowments. Bartering income (fair-market value of goods or services received in return for services). Tier 2 and supplemental annuities under the Railroad Retirement Act. Lump-sum distributions. Gains from the sale or exchange (including barter) of real estate, securities, coins, gold, silver, gems or other property (capital gains). Accumulation distributions from trusts. Prizes and awards (contests, raffles, lottery and gambling winnings). Earned income from sources outside the United States. Director's fees. Fees received as an executor or administrator of an estate. Embezzled or other illegal income. The most common form to use when filing one's income tax is the 1040. But income may come from many sources, not just wages and salaries. Listed below are some of the different kinds of income an individual may receive, on which form that income is received by the individual, and where that income should be reported on Form 1040. If the individual itemizes deductions, any state or local income tax withheld from these forms should be reported on Schedule A, line 5. Form Received from Income Source• Step 1. Get all records together. Jones Act settlements for lost wages. WHERE TO REPORT CERTAIN KINDS OF INCOME WHEN USING THE STANDARD 1040 FORM Source of Income Received HOW TO PREPARE ATAXRE'nJRN Where to Report Income Income on Form 1040, Page in IRS Instruction Book Form 1040, line 7 See Tip Income on page 15 Form 2441 , line 11 Form 1040, line 21 Schedule A , line 1O** Schedule A, line 1O** Schedule D Form 1040, line 21 Form 1040, line 9 See instructions for Form 1040, line 13, page 16 Form 1040, line 9, and Schedule A, line 22 Form 1040, line 19 See instructions for Form 1040, line 10, page 16** Form 1040, line Ba Form 1040, line 28 See instructions for Form 1040, line Sa, page 15 Form 1040, line 21 ** See instructions for Form 1040, lines 15a and 15b, page 17 See instructions for Form 1040, lines 16a and 16b, page 17 See instructions on Form 1099-R Form 2119 (or Form 4797 or Schedule D if the property was not your home) See instructions for Schedule A, line 6, page A-2** contact the source of the income **If the item relates to an activity for which you are required to file Schedule C, CEZ, E or F, or Form 4835, report the taxable or deductible amount allocable to the return unless signed. A spouse must also sign if it is a joint return. Step 6. Attach all required forms and schedules. Attach the first copy ofCopyB of Forms W-2, W-2Gand 1099Rto the front of the Form 1040. Attach all other schedules and forms behind Form 1040 in order of the attachment sequence number. If tax is owed, attach the payment to the front of Form 1040 along with Form 1040-V (original only). Write name, address, phone number, social security number and form number on your check or money order. Rounding Off to Whole Dollars: Cents may be rounded off to the nearest whole dollar on the tax return and schedules. To do so, raise amounts from 50 to 99 cents to the next dollar. For example, $1.39 becomes $1 and $2.50 becomes $3. Fast Refund: If a tax refund is expected for 1994, instead of mailing the return to the Internal Revenue Service, it can be filed electronically. When filed electronically, a refund will bereceivedinabout3 weeks, orin2 weeks if it is deposited directly into a savings or checking account. For a charge, many professional tax return preparers offer electronic filing in addition to their return preparation services. If an indi victual prepared his or her own return, a preparer or transmitter in their area can file the return electronically. For a list of who can file a tax return electronically in any given area, call the IRS toll-free number, 1-800-829-1040, and ask for the Electronic Filing Office. WHERE TO FILE Tax returns should be mailed to the Internal Revenue Service Center designated forthe area in which the taxpayerlives. These addresses are listed below. No street address is needed for the IRS. For individuals living in the following states Use this address Florida, Georgia, South Carolina IRS Atlanta, GA 39901 New Jersey, New York (New York City and counties of Nassau, . Rockland, Suffolk and Westchester) IRS Holtsville, NY 00501 New York (all other counties} , Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont IRS Andover, MA 05501 . . . . . . IRS Kansas City, MO 64999 Delaware, District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, . Virginia IRS Philadelphia, PA 19255 Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, West Virginia IRS Cincinnati, OH 45999 Kansas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas . . . . . IRS Austin, TX 73301 Alaska, Arizona, California (counties of Alpine, Amador, Butte, . Calaveras, Colusa, Contra Costa, Del Norte, El Dorado, Glenn, Humboldt, Lake, Lassen, Marin, Mendocino, Modoc, Napa, Nevada, Placer, Plumas, Sacramento, San Joaquin, Shasta, Sierra, Siskiyou, Tehama, Trinity, Yolo and Yuba), Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota, Utah, Washington, Wyoming IRS Ogden, UT 84201 California (all other counties) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hawaii IRS Fresno, CA 93888 Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, Tennessee IRS Memphis, TN 37501 American Samoa . . . . . . IRS Philadelphia, PA 19255 Guam (permanent residents) Department of Revenue and Taxation 378 Chalan San Antonio Tamuning, GU 96911 Puerto Rico (or if excluding income under section 933) . . . . . . . . . . . nonpermanent residents of Virgin Islands, nonpermanent residents of Guam IRS Philadelphia, PA 19255 Virgin Islands (permanent residents) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . V.I. Bureau of Internal Revenue Lockhart Gardens No. 1-A Charlotte Amalie St. Thomas, VI 00802 Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri , Wisconsin All A.P.O. or F.P.O. addresses . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IRS Philadelphia, PA 19255 �SEAFARERS LOG FEBRUARY 1995 13 r-----------------------------------------------------------------------, DEADLINE for filing TAXES: APRIL 17, 1995 HOW TO FILE AN EXTENSION IRS Form 4868 can be used to ask for a fourmonth extension to file IRS Form 1040A or Form 1040. An individual requesting an extension is under no obligation to explain why the additional time is needed. Filing of the form gives an individual until August 15, 1995 to file his or her 1994 federal tax return. The IRS will contact the individual directly only if the request for an extension is denied. To extend the period of time in which one can file his or her tax return, that individual must correctly fill out Form 4868 and pay all of the tax monies due (as noted on line 6 of the form). If the filing of Form 4868 and the subsequent four-month extension to file does not provide the individual with enough time, he or she can then file Form 2688, known as "Application for Additional Extension of Time to File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return." Another option open to the person seeking more time in which to file is to write a letter to the IRS stating the reason the extension is necessary and mail it to the correct IRS location (see "Where to File" on page 12 in this supplement). An individual seeking an extension is advised by the IRS to file Form 4868 before filing Form 2688. At right is Form 4868 which may be used by Seafarers to file for an extension. This form will be recognized by the IRS. Additional copies of Form 4868 are available by calling the agency's toll-free number which is dedicated to tax form requests. That number is 1800-829-3676. Also, Form 4868 is available from all main IRS branch offices. And if a Seafarer finds himself or herself overseas, he or she can obtain the form from any U.S. embassy or consulate. It is important to bear in mind that the filing of Form 4868 requesting an extension does not get one offthe hook from having to pay any taxes due. Form 4868, when sent in, must be accompanied by all tax monies due the U.S. government from the individual filing the extension. The deadline for filing the form and the taxes due is April 17. II Form 4868 Application for Automatic Extension of Time To File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return OMB No. 1545-0188 ~®94 Department of the Treasury Internal Revenue Service Please Type or Print Your first name and initial Last name Your social security number If a joint return, spouse's first name and initial Last name Spouse's social security number Home address {number, street, and apt. no. or rural route). If you have a P.O. box, see the instructions. City, town or post office, state, and ZIP code I request an automatic 4-month extension of time to August 15, 1995, to file Form 1040EZ, Form 1040A, or Form 1040 for the , for the fiscal tax year ending , 19 calendar year 1994 or to , 19 1@11 Individual Income Tax-You must complete this part. Total tax liability for 1994. This is the amount you expect to enter on Form 1040EZ, line 9; Form 1040A, line 27; or Form 1040, line 53. If you expect this amount to be zero, enter -0-. Caution: You MUST enter an amount on line 1 or your extension will be denied. You can estimate this amount, but be as exact as you can with the information you have. If we later find that your estimate was not reasonable, the extension will be null and void. 2 3 Total payments for 1994. This is the amount you expect to enter on Form 1040EZ, line 8; Form 1040A, line 28d; or Form 1040, line 60 (excluding line 57) . . . . . . . . . . . . . BALANCE DUE. Subtract line 2 from line 1. If line 2 is more than line 1, enter -0-. If you are making a payment, you must use the Form 4868-V at the bottom of page 3. For details on how to pay, including what to write on your payment, see the instructions . . . . . . . . ..,.. 1@111 .,__2--+-----+-- 3 Gift or Generation-Skipping Transfer (GST) Tax-Complete this part if you expect to owe either tax. Caution: Do not include income tax on lines Sa and Sb. See the instructions. If you or your spouse plan to file a gift tax return (Form 709 or 709-A) for 1994, } Yourself ..,.. generally due by April 17, 1995, see the instructions and check here . . Spouse ..,.. 4 D D 5a Enter the amount of gift or GST tax you are paying with this form. Also, you must use the Form 4868-V at the bottom of page 3. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . b Enter the amount of gift or GST tax your spouse is paying with t~ls form. Also, you must use the Form 4868-V at the bottom of page 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1--Sa~-------+--- 5b Signature and Verification Under penalties of perjury, I declare that I have examined this form, including accompanying schedules and statements, and to the best of my knowledge and belief, it is true, correct, and complete; and, if prepared by someone other than the taxpayer, that I am authorized to prepare this form . ~ ~ Your signature Date ~ Spouse's signature, if filing jointly Preparer's signature (other than taxpayer) Date Date If you want correspondence regarding this extension to be sent to you at an address other than that shown above or to an agent acting for you, please enter the name of the agent and/or the address where it should be sent. Name Please Type or Print Number and street (include suite, room, or apt. no.) or P.O. box number if mail is not delivered to street address City, town or post office, state, and ZIP code 4868 (1994) ______________________________________________________________________ _J For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see page 3. Cat. No. 1~l141W Form Seafarers are welcome to use the above form in case they need to file for an extension for income tax returns. The form is an exact duplication and will be honored by the Internal Revenue Service. Filing an extension does not exempt a Seafarer from paying any taxes owed the IRS. SEAFARERS AND STATE TAXES The law prohibits employers from withholding state and local taxes from the wages of seamen working aboard U.S.-flag ships. Specifically, the law [46 USCA 11108(11)] provides that "no part of the wages due or accruing to a master, officer or any other seaman who is a member of the crew on a vessel engaged in the foreign, coastwise, intercoastal, interstate or noncontiguous trade shall be withheld pursuant to the provisions of the tax laws of any state, territory, possession or commonwealth, or a subdivision of any of them, but nothing in this section shall prohibit any such withholding of the wages of any seaman who is employed in the coastwise trade between ports in the same state if such withholding is pursuant to a voluntary agreement between such seaman and his employer." The law, however, does not exempt seamen from paying state and local taxes. A seaman, just like any other citizen of any given state, must meet his or her obligations to the government of the area in which he or she lives. Each state has a set of criteria to determine whether an individual is a resident of that state. A seaman should check with a state tax office ifhe or she is unsure as to his residency status. For example, in California during the early 1970s, a case before the California State Board of Equalization stated that a merchant seaman-despite the fact that he was on a ship for 210 days of the year-was a resident of the state for tax purposes. The board took into consideration the fact that the seaman owned a home in California and maintained a bank account in a California-based bank. Additionally, each state has established conditions under which non-residents of that state must pay a portion of state tax if such an individual earned income from a source based in that state. Many states allow a credit in the amount an individual must pay the state if that person has already paid taxes in another state. On page 14 in this issue of the Seafarers LOG is a chart for seamen to use if questions arise on residency and state tax issues. It includes a list of phone numbers of state tax boards and offices to call for more information. It also provides information on what each state considers to be taxable income for residents. The chart indicates that seven states do not require state taxes to be paid of its residents, and three states limit state taxes to profits earned from investments but do not consider wages subject to taxation. ADDITIONAL STATE TAX INFORMATION ON NEXT PAGE �Ill 14 SEAFARERS LOG STATE TAX LIABILITY AND WHERE TO GET ADDITIONAL INFORMATION RESIDENT'S TAXABLE INCOME STATE OFFICE ADDRESS Alabama Subject to state income tax on all income. Alaska Arizona Arkansas No state tax. Subject to tax on entire net income. A credit is only allowed for taxes paid to the other state on income derived from sources within that state which are taxable under that state's laws without regard to the residence or domicile of the recipient. No credit is allowed if the other state allows residents of Arizona a credit against taxes imposed by that state for taxes paid to Arizona Subject to state income tax on all income. Dept. of Revenue, Income Tax Division, 1021 Madison Ave., P.O. Box 327490, Montgomery, AL 36132-7490 De~t. of Revenue, P.O. Box 110420, Juneau, AK 99811-0420 Dept. of Revenue, P.O. Box 29086, Phoenix,~ 85038-9086 Tax Administrator, P.O. Box 3628, Little Rock, AR 72203-3628 California Subject to state income tax on all taxable income. Taxpayer Information, P.O. Box 942840, Sacramento, CA 94240-0000 Colorado Subject to state income taxation on federal adjusted gross income with certain modifications. Subject to state income taxation based on federal adjusted gross income with certain modifications. Subject to state income taxation on federal adjusted gross income with cerlain modifications. Subject to DC income tax on net income. Taxpayer's Assistance, 1375 Sherman St., Denver, CO 80261 STATE Connecticut Delaware District of Columbia Florida No state tax. Georgia Subject to tax on federal adjusted gross income less certain items. Hawaii Subject to tax on entire income; credit is allowed for taxes paid to another state which is paid on income derived from sources outside the state. Subject to tax on federal taxable income with a credit for income taxes paid to another state or territory. Subject to tax on federal adjusted gross income with certain modifications. Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Subject to tax on federal adjusted gross income with certain modifications and with the possibility of a credit for state taxes paid to another state. Subject to tax on federal adjusted gross income with modifications and with the possibility of a credit against Iowa tax for taxes paid to another state on income subject to tax in Iowa. Subject to tax on federal adjusted gross income with certain modifications. Subject to tax on federal adjusted gross income with certain modifications. Subject to tax on all income reportable for federal purposes with certain exceptions. Subject to tax on taxable income with the possibility of a reduction of taxes for taxes paid to another jurisdiction. Subject to tax on federal adjusted gross income with certain modifications. Minnesota Subject to a tax on federal adjusted gross income. A credit for taxes paid to other states is allowed. Subject to tax on federal adjusted gross income allocable to sources within Michigan. Subject to tax on federal adjusted gross income with certain modifications. Mississippi Missouri Subject to tax on entire net income. Subject to tax on Missouri taxable income with certain modifications. Montana Subject to tax on federal adjusted gross income with certain modifications. Credit for taxes paid to other states is allowed. Subject to tax on federal adjusted gross income with certain modifications. Michigan Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York No state tax. Subject to tax on interest and dividends over $1 ,200. Subject to tax on entire New Jersey gross income; credit is allowed for tax paid to another state on income subject to New Jersey income tax. Subject to tax on federal taxable income with certain modification and with the possibility of a credit for taxes paid to another state. Subject to tax on federal adjusted gross income with certain modifications. Taxpayer's Assistance, 25 Sigourney St., Hartford, CT 06105 Division of Revenue, State Office Bldg., Ninth & French Streets, Wilmington, DE 19801 Taxpayer Assistance Office, 1 Judiciary Square, 441 Fourth St., NW, Suite 550 North, Washington, DC 20001 Taxpayer Assistance Section, 5050 W. Tennessee St., Bldg. I, Tallahassee, FL 32399-0100 Dept. of Revenue, 322 Plaza Level, West Tower, Floyd Bldg., Atlanta, GA 30334 First Taxation District, Oahu District Office, P.O. Box 3559, Honolulu, HI 968113559 Tax Commission, P.O. Box 56, Boise, ID 83756-0201 Taxpayer Information Division, The Willard Ice Bldg., 101 West Jefferson, P.O. Box 19044, Springfield, IL 62794-9044 Taxpayer Information, 100 N. Senate Ave., Room N105, Indianapolis, IN 462042253 Taxpayer Service Section, Iowa Dept. of Revenue and Finance, P.O. Box 10457, Des Moines, IA 50306 Taxpayer Assistance Bureau, Docking State Office Bldg., 915 Harrison, 3rd floor, Topeka, KS 66612-1588 Revenue Cabinet, 200 Fair Oaks Lane, Frankfort, KY 40620-0001 Taxpayer Information, P.O. Box 3440, Baton Rouge, LA 70823-0001 Bureau ofTaxation, P.O. Box 1067, Augusta, ME 04332-1067 Comptroller of the Treasury, Revenue Administration, Annapolis, MD 21411-0001 Massachussetts Dept. of Revenue, 100 Cambridge St., Boston, MA 02204 Taxpayer Information, Treasury Bldg., 430 W. Allegan St., Lansing, Ml 48922 Dept. of Revenue, Taxpayer Information, 10 River Park Plaza, St. Paul, MN 55146-4450 Tax Commission, P.O. Box 23050, Jackson, MS 39225-3050 Dept. of Revenue, Truman State Office Bldg., Room 330, Jefferson City, MO 65101 Dept. of Revenue, P.O. Box 5805, Helena, MT 59604 Taxpayer's Assistance, 301 Centennial Mall South, P.O. Box 94818, Lincoln, NE 68509-4818 Deet. of Taxation, Caeital Comelex, Carson Ci~. NV 89710-0003 Taxpayers Assistance Office, P.O. Box 637, Concord, NH 03302-0637 Taxpayer Information, 50 Barrack St., CN 269, Trenton, NJ 08646-0269 Tax & Revenue Dept., P.O. Box 360, Santa Fe, NM 87509-0630 Taxpayer's Assistance, W.A. Harriman State Campus, Bldg. 8, Albany, NY 12227 Dept. of Revenue, Revenue Bldg., 501 N. Wilmington St., Raleigh, NC 27640 North Dakota Subject to tax on net income with the possibility of a tax credit for taxes paid to another state. Subject to tax on federal taxable income with certain modifications. Ohio Subject to tax on federal adjusted gross income with certain modifications. Oklahoma Subject to tax on the federal adjusted gross income with certain modifications. Oregon Rhode Island South Carolina Subject to tax on federal taxable income with certain modifications ;credit against Oregon income taxes for taxes imposed by another state is allowed. Subject to tax on income with a credit for taxes paid to another state on income also subject to tax in Pennsylvania. Subject to tax on federal adjusted gross income with certain modifications. Subject to tax on entire net income. South Dakota Tennessee No state tax. Subject to tax on dividends from stock and interest on bonds. Division of Taxation, One Capitol Hill, Providence, RI 02908-5801 Dept. of Revenue, Columbia Mill Bldg., 301 Gervais St., P.O. Box 125, Columbia, SC 29214 Dept. of Revenue, 700 Governors Dr., Pierre, SD 57501-2291 Dept. of Revenue, Andrew Jackson State Office Bldg., Nashville, TN 37242-0482 Texas Utah No state tax. Subject to tax on federal taxable income with certain modifications. Taxpayer Assistance, Capital Station, Austin, TX 78774 Utah State Tax Commission, 210 North 1950 West, Salt Lake City, UT 84134 Vermont Subject to tax on federal adjusted gross income with a credit for income taxes paid to another state or territory upon income derived from sources within that state or territory. Subject to tax on federal adjusted gross income with certain modifications. No state tax Dept. of Taxes, 109 State St., Montpelier, VT 05609-1401 North Carolina Pennsylvania -- FEBRUARY 1995 Virginia Washington West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming Subject to taxable income as defined in terms of federal adjusted gross income with modifications. Subject to tax on federal adjusted gross income with certain modifications. No state tax. Taxpayer Information, State Capitol, Bismarck, ND 58505-0599 Ohio Dept. of Taxation - Taxpayer Service, P.O. Box 2476, Columbus, OH 43266-0076 Taxpayer Information, Connors Bldg., 2501 Lincoln Blvd., Oklahoma City, OK 73194 Revenue Bldg., 955 Center St., NE, First floor, Room 135, Salem, OR 97310 PA Dept. of Revenue, Strawberry Square, Harrisburg, PA 17128-0101 Taxpayer Information, P.O. Box 1115, Richmond, VA 23208-1115 Dept. of Revenue, 415 General Admin. Bldg., P.O. Box 47454, Olympia, WA 98504-7454 Taxpayer Services, P.O. Box 3784, Charteston, WV 25337-3784 Dept. of Revenue, 4638 University Ave., Madison, WI 53705 Dept. of Revenue, 122 West 25th St., Cheyenne, WY 82002 LOCAL I TOLL-FREE NO. (205) 242-2677 (907} 465-2320 (602) 255-3381 *(800) 352-4090 Phoenix (602) 628-6421 Tucson (501) 682-1100 *(800) 882-9275 (916) 854-6500 (800) 852-5711 (303) 534-1209 (203) 566-8520 *(800) 382-9463 (302) 577-3300 *(800) 292-7826 (202) 727-6103 (202) 727-6104 ~904~ 488-6800 800 352-3671 (404) 656-4071 *(800) 338-2389 (808) 587-6515 (800} 222-3229 ~208) 334-7660 800) 972-7660 (217) 782-3336 (317) 232-2240 (515)281-3114 *(800) 367-3388 (913) 296-0222 (502) 564-4580 (504) 925-4611 (207) 626-8475 *(800) 773-7895 (410) 974-3981 (800) 638-2937 (617) 727-4545 *(800) 392-6089 (517) 373-2873 *(800) 487-7000 (612) 296-3781 (800) 652-9094 (601) 359-1141 (314) 751-7191 (406) 444-2837 ~402) 471-5729 800) 742-7474 (702) 687-4892 (603) 271-2186 (609) 588-2200 *(800) 323-4400 (505) 827-0700 (518) 438-8581 *(800) 225-5829 (919) 733-4682 (701) 328-3450 *(800) 638-2901 (614) 846-6712 *(800) 282-1780 (405) 521-3146 *(800) 522-8165 (503) 378-4988 *(800) 356-4222 (717) 783-1405 (401) 277-2905 (800) 763-1295 (605) 773-5141 (615) 741-3665 *(800) 342-1003 *(800) 252-5555 (801) 297-2200 *(800) 662-4335 (802) 828-2865 (804) 367-8031 (206) 753-5540 (304) 558-3333 *(800} 982-8297 (608) 266-2486 (307) 777-7962 • within state only SOURCE: Department of Defense, Office of the Secretary of Defense, Federal Voting Assistance Program; Voting Assistance Guide 1994-95; Appendix I. Probable State Income Tax Liability. �FEBRUARY 1995 SEAFARERS LOG Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea DECEMBER 16, 1994 - JANUARY 15, 1995 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C March & April 1995 Membership Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, Inland Waters **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C Piney Point Monday, March 6, April 3 Port DECK DEPARTMENT New York 48 26 7 21 2 19 58 53 10 13 Philadelphfa 4 2 3 5 1 3 0 5 8 3 12 Baltimore 7 11 4 6 8 3 6 0 0 Norfolk 23 21 19 8 10 4 8 6 6 10 27 4 Mobile 12 11 22 0 6 18 1 5 New Orleans 22 43 4 29 4 21 1 5 31 11 4 12 Jacksonville 31 13 7 51 35 13 19 17 14 San Francisco 12 18 12 0 6 38 37 9 1 Wilmington 22 19 30 30 9 17 I 11 8 8 Seattle 27 16 2 44 31 6 17 1 18 9 2 1 2 Puerto Rico 15 5 3 5 8 5 9 25 Honolulu 4 4 4 15 7 10 6 9 13 44 34 19 Houston 24 20 16 6 9 20 7 2 1 1 1 2 2 2 0 0 St. Louis 0 I Piney Point 0 1 0 3 0 0 0 6 1 2 1 Algonac 1 2 0 0 0 0 147 167 371 383 118 Totals 227 48 38 93 205 Port ENGINE DEPARTMENT 2 New York 14 15 10 39 38 26 10 1 0 4 2 0 1 2 l Philadelphia 2 3 0 0 1 0 2 5 Baltimore 0 5 6 5 2 0 2 3 10 20 9 6 8 5 Norfolk 4 4 2 19 24 0 7 Mobile 11 0 5 0 9 4 20 29 12 2 New Orleans 12 2 6 8 18 6 23 38 11 12 2 6 Jacksonville 18 15 5 10 4 30 27 1 11 8 0 San Francisco 17 17 4 14 19 11 l 6 13 3 8 Wilmington 8 14 3 23 12 12 2 13 Seattle 16 4 9 2 3 4 2 11 4 Puerto Rico 5 1 3 7 14 7 13 1 2 8 2 Honolulu 4 5 8 22 1 11 19 11 14 0 Houston 13 0 10 1 2 1 0 St. Louis 1 0 0 0 0 0 5 6 0 4 0 Piney Point 3 0 1 0 6 0 0 0 0 Algonac 0 0 0 0 0 0 225 267 58 17 69 97 118 Totals 142 130 27 STEWARD DEPARTMENT Port 2 18 19 7 5 0 6 1 10 New York 11 7 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 Philadelphia 1 0 1 0 2 l 0 1 0 Baltimore 1 2 14 4 7 3 6 1 6 5 7 Norfolk 11 0 2 13 0 0 10 3 6 Mobile 8 12 13 5 2 7 6 1 12 3 New Orleans 10 23 17 10 5 1 7 5 Jacksonville 11 9 6 22 7 4 68 4 1 17 San Francisco 32 12 3 6 6 12 19 I 7 9 12 4 3 Wilmington 2 8 11 35 1 13 5 4 1 Seattle 16 4 3 4 1 2 3 0 0 1 2 Puerto Rico 16 12 17 1 4 3 1 3 Honolulu 4 8 5 22 6 6 1 4 4 2 8 Houston 12 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 St. Louis 0 0 3 1 9 2 2 0 Piney Point 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 1 l 0 Algonac 0 246 148 60 54 55 14 94 125 77 25 Totals ENTRY DEPARTMENT Port 91 38 11 2 0 15 1 4 34 13 New York 4 11 0 0 4 1 0 0 Phi1ade1phia 1 0 7 7 1 0 0 1 0 2 2 Baltimore 0 25 27 6 0 5 1 7 12 Norfolk 2 8 4 34 5 0 14 0 2 0 2 18 Mobile 32 39 11 2 0 2 8 New Orleans 4 20 9 25 4 31 0 7 5 1 11 10 Jacksonville 1 29 26 18 0 2 8 16 10 San Francisco 7 18 14 11 32 0 3 10 9 15 12 Wilmington 6 15 42 12 12 2 0 3 3 23 Seattle 6 13 13 5 1 0 1 2 4 4 Puerto Rico 9 126 11 60 0 15 9 46 20 0 Honolulu 7 11 33 7 3 0 4 1 9 2 15 Houston 1 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 St. Louis 0 4 32 0 1 0 14 1 0 24 Piney Point 0 1 3 0 0 0 0 0 2 1 Algonac 0 363 470 102 47 0 124 23 144 208 Totals 45 Totals All 599 944 1,268 216 116 464 361 244 620 De2artments 539 * "Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. ** "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. A total of 1,157 jobs were shipped on SIU-contracted deep sea vessels. Of the 1,157 jobs shipped, 361 jobs or about 31 percent were taken by "A" seniority members. The rest were filled by "B" and "C" seniority people. From December 16, 1994 to January 15, 1995, a total of 216 trip relief jobs were shipped. Since the trip relief program began on April 1, 1982, a total of 22,377 jobs have been shipped. New York Tuesday: March 7, April 4 Trip Reliefs Philadelphia Wednesday: March 8, April 5 Baltimore Thursday: March 9, April 6 Norfolk Thursday: March 9, April 6 Jacksonville Thursday: March 9, April 6 Algonac Friday: March 10, April 7 Houston Monday: March 13, April 10 New Orleans Tuesday: March 14, April 11 Mobile Wednesday: March 15, April 12 San Francisco Thursday: March 16, April 13 Wilmington Monday: March 20, April 17 Seattle Friday: March 24, April 21 San Juan Thursday: March 9, April 6 St. Louis Friday: March 17, April 14 Honolulu Friday: March 17, April 14 Duluth Wednesday: March 15, April 12 Jersey City Wednesday: March 22, April 19 New Bedford Tuesday: March 21, April 18 Each port's meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals ANTHONY (TONY) ARONICA Please contact Hubert Eugene Jackson at 88 Johnston Highway, Newton Grove, NC 28366; or telephone (910) 594-0127. RAYMOND CHERRY Michele Cherry would like to get in touch with her father-in-law, Raymond Cherry, or anyone who knows him. Please contact Michele Cherry at 1849 Sedgwick A venue, Apt. 12-B, Bronx, NY 10453; or telephone (718) 716-5811. SIDNEY GARDNER (of Baltimore) Please contact Karen Scott at (410) 558-0232 or (410) 342-4611. FREDDIE NEWTON Walton Newton would like to get in touch with his father, Freddie Newton (who sailed from the port of St. Louis), or anyone who knows him. Please call Walton Newton at (813) 870-9827. ANTHONY NOBILE The daughter of Anthony Nobile would like to get in touch with her father. She would like Mr. Nobile, or anyone who knows him, to write to Diane Nobile Serra, 143 Columbia Street, #3A, Brooklyn, NY 11231. JOHN FRANCIS ROBERTS Gail Roberts is trying to locate information about her grandfather (John Francis Roberts) whom she has never met. Her grandfather sailed as a merchant mariner in 1932 and was still sailing in 1961. Ms. Roberts would like to hear from her grandfather or anyone who knew him. Please contact Gail Roberts at 8218 Bernard Drive North, Millersville, MD 21108. 15 .. �16 SEAFARERS LOG FEBRUARY 1995 Seafarers International Union Directory Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes DECEMBER 16, 1994- JANUARY 15, 1995 L-Lakes CL-Company/Lakes NP-Non Priority Michael Sacco President *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP John Fay Secretary-Treasurer TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP Joseph Sacco Executive Vice President Augustin Tellez Vice President Collective Bargaining George McCartney Vice President West Coast Roy A. "Buck" Mercer Vice President Government Services Jack Caffey Vice President Atlantic Coast Byron Kelley Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac 0 35 6 0 15 3 0 7 0 0 12 9 DECK DEPARTMENT 0 15 11 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 16 7 0 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 5 9 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 0 42 14 0 17 7 0 10 2 0 36 27 DeanCorgey .---- - - - - - Vice President Gulf Coast - - ----.. HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 (30 I) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr. Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 BALTIMORE 1216 E. Baltimore St. Baltimore, MD 21202 (410) 327-4900 DULUTH 705 Medical Arts Building Duluth, MN 55802 (218)722-4110 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St. Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON I 221 Pierce St. Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St. Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JERSEY CITY 99 Montgomery St. Jersey City, NJ 07302 (201) 435-9424 MOBILE I640 Dauphin Island Pkwy. Mobile, AL 36605 (334) 478-0916 NEW BEDFORD 48 Union St. New Bedford, MA 02740 (508) 997-5404 NEW ORLEANS Totals All Departments 18 0 69 0 36 27 0 105 * "Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. ** "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. 50 Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters DECEMBER 16, 1994 - JANUARY 15, 19954 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals 3 0 5 0 1 0 3 0 0 42 3 12 17 2 1 14 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 18 0 1 1 1 1 0 3 0 1 0 0 0 2 2 2 36 (} 0 1 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C DECK DEPARTMENT 2 0 0 1 4 1 17 0 0 29 2 33 49 34 6 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 9 0 0 0 0 11 0 0 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 1 0 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 2 2 0 3 2 3 20 2 1 2 44 5 0 9 0 13 0 51 70 13 64 2 1 1 0 0 2 0 1 0 1 2 0 1 0 1 2 0 0 0 6 1 22 1 26 2 3 7 1 13 Totals All Departments 20 63 4 63 8 37 109 17 * "Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. ** "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. 6 72 630 Jackson Ave. New Orleans, LA 70130 (504) 529-7546 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave. Brooklyn, NY l 1232 (718) 499-6600 e1u BULLETIN BOARD NORFOLK I 15 Third St. Norfolk, VA 23510 (804) 622-1892 PHILADELPHIA 2604S. 4 St. Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75 Piney Point, MD 20674 (30 I) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 2 West Dixie Highway Dania, FL 33004 (305) 921 -5661 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St. San Francisco, CA 94105 (415)543-5855 Government Services Division (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE l 057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 161/i Santurce, PR 00907 (809) 721-4033 SEATTLE 2505 First Ave. Seattle, WA 98121 (206) 441-1960 ST.LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave. St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave. Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 - ~ & UPDATE YOUR ADDRESS rtJ ~ UPCOMING PORT ARTHUR TEXAS MEMBERSHIP MEETINGS A general informational Seafarers membership meeting will be held on Wednesday, February 1, 1995 at 2:00 p.m. It will take place at the Ramada Inn on Highway 87 in Port Arthur. Future meetings will be held March 1, April 5 and May 3 at the same time and same location. Contact the Houston SIU hall for further information. ~ ,{ii. '-1! NEW YORK CLINIC 'fl In order to ensure that active SIU members and pensioners receive a copy of the Seafarers LOG each month-as well as other important mail such as W-2 forms, pension and welfare checks and bulletins or notices-a correct home address must be on file with the union. If you have moved recently and have not yet notified the union, go to your nearest union hall and fill out a change of address form or send your new address (along with your name, book number and social security number) to: Address Control, Seafarers International Union, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. CHANGES AFFILIATION Dr. Berlin is now affiliated with Occupational Health Services, which serves as the clinic for Seafarers in the New York area. The address remains 794 Union Street, Brooklyn, NY 11215; telephone (718) 783-6578. Hours of operation are: Monday - 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Wednesday - 9 a.m. 6 p.m.; Friday - 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. ~ NEW AREA CODE <{J FOR SOUTHERN ALABAMA Effective January 15, 1995, Alabama has a new area code, 334, which will apply to the southern parts of the state. The telephone number for the SIU Mobile hall is now (334) 4780916; the FAX number is (334) 4784658. ~ THINK WARM: PLAN YOUR VACATION AT PINEY POINT Each summer, a number of rooms at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. are set aside for Seafarers and their families to vacation for up to two weeks. Piney Point vacationers can enjoy the school's comfortable accommodations, use of the recreational facilities and three good meals a day. And the location is ideal for traveling to many of the area's educational and historical sites. Seafarers should start thinking about how Piney Point could be a part of their vacation plans. Watch for additional information in upcoming issues of the Seafarers LOG or contact the Paul Hall Center at (301) 9940010. �FEBRUARY 1995 SEFARERS LOG J oining the growing number of SIU pensioners this month are 13 Seafarers who have retired after many years of sailing the world's waterways. Eleven of those signing off their ships for the last time sailed in the deep sea division, one navigated the inland waterways and one worked on Great Lakes' vessels. Seven of the retiring Seafarers served in the U.S. military-two in the Navy, two in the Army, two in the Air Force and one in the Coast Guard. Two of the new pension enrollees have been SIU members since the 1940s: Alfred Tampol who signed on in Norfolk, Va. and William Holland who joined the union in New Orleans. Among this month's retirees is Claude J. Dockery, who completed the bosun recertification course in 1988 at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. On this page, the Seafarers LOG presents brief biographical accounts of this month's pensioners. DEEP SEA BILLA. ABULENCIA, 65, signed on with the Seafarers in 1969 in the port of New York. Brother Abulencia sailed in the deck department and upgraded his skills at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. Born in the Philippines, Brother Abulencia has retired to California. RICHARD BRUMAGE, 66, signed on with the SIU in the port of Honolulu. He sailed in the steward department and upgraded to chief cook at the Lundeberg School. Prior to joining the SIU, Brother Brumage was a member of the Marine Cooks and Stewards union and graduated from their training school in Santa Rosa, Calif. He served in the U.S. Army from 1950 to 1953. A native of Pennsylvania, Brother Brumage currently resides in Nevada. CHARLES J. DOCKERY,66, was born in Oklahoma. He joined the union in 1966 in the port of Wilmington, Calif., sailing as a member of the deck department. Brother Dockery upgraded at the Lundeberg School and completed the bosun recertification program there in 1988. Brother Dockery has retired to his native Oklahoma. RICHARD GARCIA, 65,began sailing with the Seafarers in 1951 in the port of Savannah, Ga. He sailed Brother Sigler currently resides in Missouri. To Our New Pensioners . . . Thanks for a Job Well Done GREAT LAKES Each month in the Seafarers LOG, the names of SIU members who recently have become pensioners appear with a brief biographical sketch. These men and women have served the maritime industry well, and the SIU and all their union brothers and sisters wish them happiness and health in the days ahead. in the steward department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1951to1955. Born and raised in Tampa, Fla., Brother Garcia has retired to his home state. LUCIEN GUMM,59, a native of Washington, joined the = ~ SIU in 1968 '''i'i in the port of =t, Seattle. ---""-=-===---' } Brother Gumm sailed in the deck department. He served 20 years in the U.S. Navy. Brother Gumm continues to reside in Washington. WILLIAM L.HOLLAND,65, signed on with the union in 1948 in the port of New Orleans. He sailed in the engine department, starting out as an FOWT and working his way up to QMED. He also sailed as a second assistant engineer. Born in Paris, Texas, Brother Holland now resides in California. JOSEPHJ. McGILL, 59, born in Brooklyn, N.Y., joined the Seafarers in 1958 in the port of Jackson ville, Fla. Brother McGill sailed in both the engine and deck departments. He served in the U.S. Army from 1959 to 1961. Brother McGill makes his home in Florida. Brother Tampol has retired to New York. TEODORO VALERIO, 58,joined the Seafarers in 1968 in the port of New Orleans. He sailed as a member of the deck department. Born in Honduras, Brother Valerio became a naturalized U.S. citizen and currently resides in Louisiana. DUANEK. WITT,55, signed on with the umonm 1965 in the port of Duluth, Minn. The Wisconsin native started sailing in the union's Great Lakes district and later transferred to the deep sea division as a member of the deck department. Brother Witt presently lives in Wisconsin. INLAND MANUEL "JOE" SIGLER, 67, signed on with the SIU in 1952 in the port of Chicago. He sailed aboard deep sea, inland and Great Lakes vessels in the deck department. Eighteen years ago, Brother Sigler became an official for the union. He was a patrolman in Chicago, worked in the Algonac, Mich. hall and has been a port agent in St. Louis for nearly seven years. As a rank and file member, Brother Sigler participated in a number of beefs. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1944 to 1947. Born in Gary, Ind., The start of any new year brings many changes in local, state and federal laws. With regard to Social Security and its benefits, 1995 is no different. Perhaps the most anticipated and noticed change is the announcement that benefits for those persons receiving Social Security will go up. The federal government has announced that Social Security recipients should have received a 2.8 percent increase in their benefits with their January check. The increase is based on the annual rise in the Consumer Price Index. As determined by the Social Security Administration, the average monthly benefit for a retired worker will go up in 1995 to $698 from last year's average of $679. For a husband and wife who both receive benefits, the average monthly benefit will be $1,178. This is only an average-many people receive more while others get less. Also increasing in 1995 is the maximum amount of money that Social Security recipients between the ages of 65 and 69 can earn without losing any of their benefits. The new limit is $11,280 of taxable income in a year. After that amount is reached, $1 is withheld from benefits for every $3 over the limit. For those persons receiving Social Security who are under the age of 65, the new maximum annual earning limit is $8, 160. When this amount is reached, $1 is withheld for every $2 over the limit. The maximum earning amount still does not apply to anyone 70 years of age or older. Finally, the Social Security Administration announced there would be no changes in the percentage of withholding tax taken from paychecks for Social Security or Medicare. I LOG-A-RHYTHMS WILLIAM ALFRED TAMPOL, 66, signed on with the • union in 1945 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Born in the Philippine Islands, Brother Tampol became a naturalized U.S. citizen. He sailed in the engine department, starting out as an oiler and later upgrading at the Lundeberg School to electrician. TEDMILLIGAN,62, '~., joined the Seafarers in 1961 in the port of Buffalo, N.Y. Brother Mil"--- - - - - - - ' ligan, a tug fireman, sailed in both the deck and engine departments. Brother Milligan also sailed on inland vessels. He served in the U.S. Air Force from L952 through 1956. Brother Milligan has retired to his native state of Michigan. Social Security Payments To 60 Up 2.8% in 1995 By Michael J. Cushman N. SLUSSER, 68, was born in Roanoke, Va.He began sailing with the Seafarers in 1956 from the port of Savannah, Ga. Brother Slusser sailed in the engine department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School to QMED. He served in the U.S. Coast Guard from 1943 to 1946 and again from 1948 to 1951. Brother Slusser presently lives in the state of Washington. 17 Life at Sea Seafarer I see the ships anchored out in the harbor, I see them unloading in the ports. I wonder if I could be a sailor I am a seafarer, A sailor of the seas. I bring to you the cargo and supplies you need From around the world and across the seas. I am a citizen of the world and a sailor of the seas. Ships have been my mistresses. The sea has been my bride. I am happy with the life I lead. A seafarer until I die. of the seas. Exotic lands await me, Tropical islands chart my way. I would spend my time Carving scrimshaws, Mending the sails, Batting down the hatches, Seeing what's on the poop deck, among other things. Ah, the sailor's life it's for me. (An SIU member since 1980, Michael 1. Cushman has attended a number of courses at the Lundeberg School and upgraded to chief cook in 1987. Brother Cushman has contributed many of his poems to the Seafarers LOG in the past. "Alexander Kane Cushman," published in the March 1994 issue, was from a book of poems he wrote for his son. The poems above are two of his most recent.) - �18 SEAFARERS LOG FEBRUARY 1995 Digest of Ships Meetings The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships minutes first are reviewed by the union's contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. RANGER (Vulcan Carriers), September 25-Chairman Larry Mccants, Secretary Chih-hua Chang, Engine Delegate Alex Resendez III, Steward Delegate Tookie Davalie. Chairman noted refrigerator fixed, new VCR received and new couch put in crew lounge. He announced receipt of Seafarers LOGs. Educational director advised crew of selected upgrading courses offered at union halls and encouraged all members to take advantage of regular upgrading opportunities at Lundeberg School at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman reminded crewmembers to check zcards for renewal dates. Chairman urged crewmembers to send pictures to Seafarers LOG. RANGER (Vulcan Carriers), October 2-Chairman Larry McCants, Secretary Chih-hua Chang, Educational Director Hanable Smith, Engine Delegate Alex Resendez III, Steward Delegate Tookie Davali. Chairman reported crewmembers will have picture and thumb print taken for shore passes. He asked crew to record serial numbers from ship's equipment. Educational director emphasized importance of upgrading at Paul Hall Center. Crew discussed setting up movie fund for purchase of new films. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested floor mats be placed at entrances and exits of house. Chairman asked crewmembers to return videotapes after use and reminded them to separate plastics from normal waste. He reminded crew to lock all rooms while in port. Ship heading to Argentina. - SEA-LAND DISCOVERY(SeaLand Service), October 16-Chairman Nelson Sala, Secretary Jose Coils, Educational Director Joseph Shuler, Deck Delegate Efstratios Zoubantis, Engine Delegate R. Collazo, Steward Delegate Jorge Salazar. Chairman announced payoff and sailing time. Secretary expressed good wishes for Captains G.K. Pappas and Richard Sandifer on their recent retirements . Deck delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegates. New washing machine requested by crew. Steward department thanked for keeping up good work. Next port: Elizabeth, N .J. SEA-LAND ENTERPRISE (SeaLand Service), October 9-Chairman Elex Cary Jr., Deck Delegate Brian Bassett, Engine Delegate Prentiss Smith, Steward Delegate Donald Garrison. Crew extended special vote of thanks to Chief Cook Garrison for fine meals and excellent barbecue on deck. Crew asked contracts department for clarification of overtime worked. Galley gang thanked crew for helping keep mess hall and lounge clean. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. SEA-LAND NAVIGATOR (SeaLand Service), October 30--Chairman Werner Becher, Secretary Joseph Smith, Deck Delegate George Khan, Engine Delegate Chris Davis, Steward Delegate Jasper Jackson. Crew requested new washing machine and dryer. Chairman announced new lock installed in lounge and asked crewmembers to deep doors locked while in port. He reported payoff in Tacoma, Wash. on October 28. Engine delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck or steward department delegates. Next port: Oakland, Calif. SEA-LAND SP/R/T(Sea-Land Service), October 16--Chairman David Williams, Secretary Steve Apodaca, Educational Director Charles Henley, Deck Delegate Michael Soren- son, Engine Delegate Donnie Hester, Steward Delegate Arthur Medieros. Secretary urged crewmembers to upgrade at Lundeberg School. Educational director stressed importance of donating to SPAD. Treasurer reported $203 in ship's fund and $97 in movie fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported by all three departments . Chainnan asked crewmembers to notify bridge before going on deck in bad weather. Crew thanked galley gang for great barbecue. Chairman reminded crew to keep noise to a minimum while in house so those off duty may sleep. Next port: Honolulu. USNS SEAL/FT ARABIAN SEA (IMC), October 24-Chairman Tom Prather, Deck Delegate Kimberly Clark. Secretary asked all crewmembers to cooperate in keeping mess decks and laundry spaces clean. Crew discussed safety course offered at Piney Point. Crewmembers requested new movies and VCR. Ship heading to port in England. CHARLES L. BROWN (Transoceanic Cable), November 28Chairman Francisco Sousa, Secretary Brenda Kamiya, Educational Director Joe Stores, Deck Delegate Clive Steward. Chairman said rules for meal hours are posted in mess hall. He announced payoff and discussed upcoming cable training exercise. Treasurer reported $200 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman reminded crew to clean up crew mess area and TV lounge at night. HUMACAO (PRMMJ), November 7-Chairman Roberto Diaz, Steward Delegate German Rios, Educational Director Eddie Johnson, Deck Delegate Manuel Sabater, Engine Delegate Lucas Martinez, Steward Delegate Troy Browne. Chairman noted payoff in Elizabeth, NJ. and asked those crewmembers signing off to clean room and tum in dirty linen. Disputed OT reported by engine delegate. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck or steward department delegates. Crew thanked galley gang for job well done. Next port: San Juan, P.R. LNG ARIES (ETC), November 27Chairrnan John P. Davis, Secretary Doyle E. Cornelius, Educational Director Jose A. Quinones, Deck Delegate George M. Silalahi, Engine Delegate Dasril Panko, Steward Delegate Arlene Ringler. Chairman reminded crewmembers of no smoking policy in crew lounge. Educational director asked crewmembers to think about importance of upgrading at Piney Point. Treasurer reported $437 in ship's fund . No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked steward department for job well done, especially delicious Thanksgiving Day dinner. LONG L/NES(Transoceanic Cable), November 18-Chairman Perfecto Amper, Secretary Michael Bonsignore, Educational Director Juanito Danslan, Engine Delegate Anthony Powers, Steward Delegate William Smith. Crew requested new washer and dryer. Chairman and secretary stressed importance of upgrading at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Treasurer reported $1 ,800 in ship's fund. Crew thanked galley gang for job well done. Next port: Hueneme, Calif. OMI SACRAMENTO (Vulcan Carriers), November 6-Chairman Ray Gorju, Secretary Dante Slack, Educational Director Robert Caldwell, Deck Delegate George Giraud, Steward Delegate Earl Mathews. Chairman reported ship arriving in Lake Charles, La. on November 9 and asked crewmembers signing off to leave keys. He thanked crew for good trip. Chairman added ship would next sail to Abijan, Ivory Coast. Educational director joined with chairman to urge members to attend upgrading classes at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported by all three departments. Chairman noted holiday messages received from union headquarters and posted. Crew asked contracts department to look into changing time needed for vacation. Discussion held regarding smoking rules for crew lounge. OVERSEAS HARRIETTE (Maritime Overseas), November 27Chairman Daniel Laitinen, Secretary George Quinn, Educational Director David Dunklin, Deck Delegate Donnie R. McCawley, Engine Delegate Donald G. Volluz, Steward Delegate Miguel Aguilar. Chairman thanked crewmembers for smooth trip to Guatemala. He announced ship returning to New Orleans to load before sailing for Mozambique. Secretary thanked crewmembers for help separating plastics for disposal. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade at Lundeberg School. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew extended special thanks to steward department for great Thanksgiving dinner. OVERSEAS OHIO (Maritime Overseas), November 28-Chairman Walter 0. Weaver, Secretary Earl Gray Sr., Educational Director Glenn Henderson, Deck delegate Paul Adams, Engine Delegate Karl Benes, Steward Delegate Musa Ahmed. Chairman thanked crewmembers for job well done in Valdez, Alaska when cold weather and snow made working conditions difficult. He gave belated Thanksgiving wishes to all union members. Secretary extended special vote of thanks to crewmembers for helping keep plastics separated from regular refuse. He urged all members to attend upgrading courses at Piney Point. Educational director updated members on classes offered at Paul Hall Center. He said all crewmembers will be required to take certain courses if sailing aboard tankers. Engine delegate reported beef. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck or steward department delegates. Crew thanked Captain Moore for acquiring lobsters for Thanksgiving meal and gave special vote of thanks to galley gang for excellent job done preparing great holiday meal. Minute of silence observed in memory of deceased SIU brothers and sisters. OVERSEAS WASHINGTON (Maritime Overseas), November 29Chairman Tim Koebel, Secretary Robert Miller, Educational Director Kevin Wray, Steward Delegate Charles Atkins. Chairman advised crewmembers signing off to leave room clean and deposit key with department head. He reminded crew to observe no smoking rule in lounge. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next port: St. James, La. RICHARD G. MATTHIESEN (Ocean Shipholding), November 13Chairman James T. Martin, Secretary Lovell McElroy, Educational Director Ronnie Day, Deck Delegate Dana Naze, Engine Delegate Gilbert Tedder, Steward Delegate Mohamed R. Quarish. Treasurer reported $940 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman reminded crewmembers that all tanker workers must take safety course at Piney Point. Ship heading to port in France. SEA-LAND CHALLENGER (SeaLand Service), November 20-Chairman Roy Williams, Secretary Herbert Scypes, Educational Director Gary Morrison, Steward Delegate Osvaldo Rios. Chairman noted payoff in next port, Elizabeth, N.J. New TV and VCR requested for crew lounge. Secretary asked for new refrigerator and garbage disposal in galley. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked steward department for job well done. SEA·LAND CRUSADER (SeaLand Service), November ?-Chairman Harold Berggren, Secretary Nick Andrews, Educational Director Oswald Bermeo, Deck Delegate Mark Fleming, Engine Delegate Lawrence Craig. Chairman noted payoff in Elizabeth, NJ. and reminded crew to separate plastic from regular refuse. Educational director recommended all members upgrade at Paul Hall Center to enhance job skills. No beefs or disputed OT reported by all three department delegates. SEA-LAND DISCOVERY(SeaLand Service), November 13-Chairman Nelson Sala, Secretary Jose Coils. Educational Director Joseph Shuler, Deck Delegate Efstratios Zoubantis, Engine Delegate R. Collazo, Steward Delegate Jorge Salazar. Chairman announced payoff at next port when patrolman boards ship. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman told crew new captain signing on in Elizabeth, NJ. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang for good job done. Steward department thanked crewmembers for keeping mess room and lounge area clean. SEA-LAND EXPRESS (Sea-Land Service), November 27-Chairman Ernest Duhon, Secretary Joe Johnson, Educational Director also extended special vote of thanks to engine department for job well done. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Educational director urged members to upgrade at Lundeberg School. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. SEA-LAND PACIFIC (Sea-Land Service), November 7-Chainnan Lothar Reck, Secretary George Bronson, Educational Director Raymond Clock, Deck Delegate Robert Smith, Engine Delegate Bryan Chan, Steward Delegate Dien Short. Chairman reminded members to attend ship's union meetings, read Seafarers LOG and know union contract. He reminded crew to keep personal quarters and laundry room clean. Importance of SPAD donations discussed. Secretary thanked crewmembers for keeping mess hall and crew lounge clean. Educational director advised members to upgrade at Piney Point and renew z-card by date posted on bulletin board in crew Aries Crew Readies for Holiday Meal s.tewar~ departn:ient crewn:iembers a~oard the LNG Aries pose for a p~cture m the midst of their preparations for the Thanksgiving Day dinner aboard ship. From the left are SA Cindy Winter, SA Anthony Jacobson, Chief Cook Arlene Ringler, SA Shawn Fujiwara and (back) Steward Doyle Cornelius. Michael Powell, Deck Delegate Dennis Brown, Engine Delegate Richard Surrick, Steward Delegate MikeBubaker. Chairman thanked steward department for wonderful Thanksgiving Day dinner. Educational director advised members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. Deck delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward department delegates. Entire crew extended special vote of thanks to galley gang for great holiday dinner. SEA-LAND INDEPENDENCE (Sea-Land Service), November 7Chairman Kenneth McGregor, Secretary James Prado, Educational Director Angelo Dunklin, Deck Delegate George Kriess, Engine Delegate Ronald Adriani, Steward Delegate Amanda Suncin. Chairman discussed z-card renewal information received from union headquarters. He noted ship a day late due to severe storm and high seas. Crewmembers thanked for helping recover gangway and lifeboat which were dislodged during storm. He added that no injuries were sustained under very dangerous conditions. Deck delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by other two departments. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. SEA-LAND INNOVATOR (SeaLand Service), November 20-Chairman John Stout, Secretary Jose Bayani, Educational Director David Bautista, Deck Delegate R. Rollins, Engine Delegate Charles Howell, Steward Delegate Gumpoy Wong. Chairman reporteC: tiles on second level need changing. Crew discussed Sea-Land's re-flagging efforts and what U.S. government must do to keep strong U.S.-flag fleet. Chairman advised crewmembers signing off to return keys and clean rooms. He asked crew to avoid slamming doors while others are asleep. Crew thanked steward department for good food and barbecue. Secretary thanked chairman and deck department for clean and freshly painted ship. He lounge. Treasurer anounced $340 in ship's fund and recent purchase of 15 new movies. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked galley gang for job well done. Bosun asked crew to separate aluminum cans from plastic and regular garbage. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. SEA-LAND SPIR/T(Sea-Land Service), November 13-Chairman David Williams, Secretary Steve Apodaca, Educational Director Charles Henley, Deck Delegate Michael Sorenson, Engine Delegate Donnie Hester, Steward Delegate Arthur Medieros. Chairman reminded crewmembers to tum in extra linens. Secretary advised those crewmembers wishing to upgrade skills to visit Paul Hall Center. Educational director stressed importance of donating to SPAD. Treasurer announced $61 in movie fund and $200 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Thanks given to steward department for job well done. Crew also thanked engine department for excellent job done in paint locker. Next port: Honolulu. SEA-LAND TRADER (Sea-Land Service), November &--Chairman Larry Watson, Secretary Ronald Fluker, Educational Director Milton Sabin, Deck Delegate Rick Patek, Engine Delegate Joe Graves, Steward Delegate Clarence Page. Chairman advised crew that ship arriving in Tacoma, Wash. three days late due to rough seas. He urged members to read Seafarers LOG and get involved in union activities. He encouraged crewrnembers to bring families to Lundeberg School while upgrading. Crew extended special vote of thanks to galley gang for special culinary efforts. Educational director reminded members to send holiday greetings through the Seafarers LOG. Treasurer reported $200 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported by department delegates. Chairman announced letter of thanks received from wife of Oiler Lee Stantinos who suffered a ruptured gall bladder and was air-lifted from ship. Next port: Oakland, Calif. �FEBRUARY 1995 SEAFARERS LOG 19 More than 50 children of Seafarers and their guests gather around Santa at the Mobile hall's holiday party to listen Alicia Watkins, daughter of Justin Tew, Alicia Lorge's to him read a Christmas story and let them know he's ready to visit each of them on his midnight sleigh ride. Bosun Reginald Watkins, tells guest, hopes Santa will bring Santa she's been a good girl. him lots of toys this Christmas. H oliday festivities got off to an early start in the SIU hall in Mobile, Ala. when active and retired Seafarers, with their families and friends, came together on December 17 for an afternoon of food, fun, fraternization ... and Santa Claus. A great holiday buffet was provided for the more than 200 persons who packed the hall. Retired Bosun Albert "Tony" Bourgot and his wife, Beverly, and Retired Chief Steward Esau Wright volunteered to do all the food preparation, cooking and serving. In addition, Delia Carter, wife of Port Agent Dave Carter, roasted some turkeys for the event. And what a spread it was! There were hams and turkeys with all the usual holiday trimmings. And desserts galore! But the highlight, at least for the more than 50 children in attendance, was the appearance of Santa Claus, who read ''The Night Before Christmas" to the kids and let them know he was prepared for his upcoming midnight sleigh ride. Each child had the opportunity to sit on Santa's knee to whisper his or her Christmas wish list to him, and each received a Christmas stocking filled with candy, including a large peppermint stick. Retiree Fred "Bull" OMU Joe Previto's nephews, Corey and Blake, Pumpman William · Olivia Nicole Lorge, Lindsey used to sail are two of more than 50 children who came to Dunklin socializes Alicia Lorge's daughas a steward/baker. the union hall to see Santa. with fellow Seafarers. ter, has a great time. Carrying food from the buffet to his seat is SA Kenneth Seals. FOWT Cornelius Cade and his wife pose for the roving photographer at the Mobile hall's Christmas party. Amos and Ernestine Myers join in on the festivities. Amos sails as an FOWT from the Mobile hall. OMU Percy Payton is surrounded by other members of his family at the afternoon holiday party in the Mobile hall. Bosun James Blanchard is accompanied by his wife and son for a delicious holiday meal. From left, Retiree Albert ''Tony" Bourgot, Beverly Bourgot, Retiree Esau Wright and Delia Carter can take the credit for all the delicious food. Enjoying the holiday event are QMED Charles Kennedy with his wife, Brenda, and daughter, Tameka. �20 SEAFARERS LOG FEBRUARY 1995 Galleys Provide Cheer Over Holidays at Sea HoJiday times-often filled with warm memories of family comfort, good food and close friends-can be lonely times aboard ship. But reports to the Seafarers LOG from SIU members who have spent their hoJidays at sea indicate that the steward department members aboard ship work hard to provide that homey, holiday feeling. Grateful crewmembers from three ships recently contacted the Seafare rs LOG to tell about the efforts put forth over the holidays by the galley gang members on their vessels. SIU Scholarships: Windows to the Future Snow, ice, flooding-these are aJI fami]iar visions of winter in various regions of the United States-often leading to the "winter blues." But one way to combat the winter blues is to think about the future-your future. Think about continuing your education. Some 38 years ago, the Seafarers International Union's Atlantic and Gulf District became the first maritime union in America to estabJish a scholarship program to help qualified members, their spouses and dependent children finance college and vocational education. In 1995, the union wilJ offer seven scholarships. As in past years, four are set aside for the children and spouses of Seafarers. Each of these four cholarships is for $15,000 to be used at a fouryear college or university. The other three are for Seafarers themselves. One of the awards is for $15,000 for use at a four-year institution of higher ]earning. The other two scholarships amount to $6,000 each and may be used for study at a community college or vocational school. Eligibility requirements for Seafarers and their spouses and unmarried dependent children are spelled out in a booklet which contains an appJication form. It is available by filJing out and returning the coupon below to the Seafarers Welfare Plan. postmarked on or be/ore April 15, 1995. Since SAT or ACT exam results are part of the application package, and since they are given only at certain times of the year, applicants should plan ahead to take the exam required by the co]lege or trade school they plan to attend. (Tests must be taken by February 1995-this month-to ensure the resuJts will be available for inclusion in the scholarship application package.) CHECKLIST Apart from the scholarship application itself, other necessary items and paperwork form part of the application package and must be received by the Scholarship Committee, a panel of professional educators, by April 15. They include: • autobiographical statement, • photograph, • certified copy of birth certificate, • high school transcript and certification of graduation or offic i a 1 copy of high school equivaJency scores, • college transcript, • letters of reference and • SAT or ACT results. For most scholarship winners, receiving a cash grant can greatly ease the financial burden associated with attending college. And while there are only two months left to collect aJI the necessary material to appJy for DEADLINES the scholarship, that shou]d be Completed applications with enough time for anyone interaJI necessary information in- ested in advancing their skills, cluded must be mailed and their careers, their dreams. Aboard the SS Carolina Crewmembers aboard Puerto Rico Marine' s SS Carolina sent the LOG a letter of praise for their steward department, along with a copy of their Thanksgiving Day menu. "The steward, Albert Coale, worked for days and nights preparing the best Thanksgiving meal I've ever had on a ship in 30 years of going to sea," wrote PhilJip Ammann, third assistant engineer, in behaJf of his shipmates. "The chief cook, Ali Hydbra, and the pantryman, James O'Reilly, and the BR Michael Anzalone, all did more than anyone could ask for." Aboard the Global Link In another letter to the LOG, Chief Steward Brandon Dwight Maeda expressed the pride of the Global Link's crew in two of their galley gang membersCook/Baker Dan Wehr and Chief Cook Mark Kotajarvi. "Mark is a culinary school graduate and has established ~ A specially printed Thanksgiving Day menu aboard the SS Carolina includes everything "from soup to nuts." himself in the hotel-food industry," Maeda wrote. "Dan is a graduate of the trainee program at the Lundeberg School of Seamanship (Class #502). Both gentlemen have done extensive and repeated upgrading at the Paul Han Center and credit the superb culinary instructors and facility there for their food preparation techniques" aboard the vessel, operated by Transoceanic Cable Ship Co. Aboard the Overseas Ohio AB Benedicto Miranda sent the LOG two photos "of four very fine men of the Seafarers International Union's steward department aboard the Overseas Ohio." Chief Cook Eugene P. Diego, GSU Musa Ahmed, DEU Qasem Saeed and Recer- tified Steward Earl Nelson Gray Sr. are known as the 'Fantastic Four' because "that's just what they are. The preparation of the menus and cooking of the food is just superb. The cleanliness of the ship just can't be beat; it simply sparkles, thanks to brothers Ahmed and Saeed. The attitudes of these four brothers cannot be put in words. They will do anything for anyone within their power to keep the ship a good ship." Brother Miranda also enclosed a copy of the Christmas Day menu from aboard the Maritime Overseas Corp. vessel, which included such treats as deviled eggs, prime rib of beef, turkey (and all the trimmings) and lobster, in addition to assorted soups, vegetables and desserts. Standing in the spotless galley of the cable ship is Chief Cook Mark Kotajarvi. r---------------------------------1 Send for Your Application Form Today! P lease send me the 1995 SIU Scholarship Program booklet which contains eligibility infomrntion, procedures for applying and the application form. Name _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _~ Book Number _ _ _ _ __ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Address _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ City, State, Zip Code_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Telephone Number _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ This application is for: D Self D Dependent Mail this completed form to: Scholarship Program, Seafarers Welfare Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 2195 ---------------------------------~ The "Fantastic Four" aboard the Overseas Ohio are, from left, Chief Cook Eugene Diego, GSU Musa Ahmed, DEU Qasem Saeed and Recertified Steward Earl N. Gray Sr. �FEBRUARY 1995 SEAFARERS LOG 21 Final Departures DEEP SEA GEORGE AUSTIN Pensioner George Austin, 82, passed away December 12, 1994. A native of Alabama, he began his shipping career with the Seafarers in 1939 in the port of Mobile, Ala. He sailed in the steward department and worked his way up to the position of chief steward. He began receiving his pension in November 1978. ANGEL N. AVALOY Angel N. Avaloy, 34, passed away July 4, 1994. Born in Honduras, he began sailing with the SIU in 1988 from the port of Houston. Brother A valoy primarily sailed in the steward department aboard two Hawaiian-based passenger ships, the SS Constitution and SS Independence. MELVINW.BASS Pensioner Melvin W. Bass, 71, died January 6. He signed on with the union in 44 · ew York. Brother Bass sailed in the steward department and attended a 1970 union conference at the Harry Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. He began receiving his pension in November 1981. KENNETH C. BATTEN Kenneth C. Batten, 58, died October 17, 1994. At age 55, after retiring from his 25-year practice of commercial real estate brokerage, he joined the Seafarers in 1991. He sailed in the deck department and his first ship was the USNS Wilkes. , THEODORE "T.R." BURNS Pensioner Theodore "T.R." Burns, 88, passed awayDecember21, 1994. Born in Mississippi, Brother Burns grew up in Oklahoma He cooked for various hotels and eventually became a chef. In 1943 he moved to Seattle and joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards, before that union merged with the Sill's Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and lnland Waters Division (AGLIWD). Brother Bums worked his way up the steward department ratings to chief cook and baker. He retired in April 1973. CHESTER K. BURLEY Pensioner Chester K. Burley, 76, died December 22, 1994. A native of Michigan, Brother Burley signed on with the sru in 1954 in the port of Frankfort, Mich. Brother Burley sailed in the deck department. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1940 to 1946. Brother Burley began receiving his pension in May 1983. RICHARD CHAMBERLIN Pensioner Richard Chamberlin, 68, died November 28, 1994. He began sailing with the union in 1972 from the port of Toledo, Ohio. Brother Chamberlin sailed in three of the union's divisions: Great Lakes, inland and deep sea. He upgraded frequently at the Lundeberg School. Brother Chamberlin last shipped in the engine department as a QMED. Born in Detroit, Mich., he served in the U.S. Army from 1944 to 1949. Brother Chamberlin retired in September 1987. MELVERN G. CHILTON Pensioner MelvemG. Chilton, 78, died December3, 1994. Born in Honolulu, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1941, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Chilton began receiving his pension in July 1984. ERNEST W. COX Pensioner EmestW. Cox, 73, died December 15, 1994. Born in Mississippi, he began shipping with the Seafarers in 1948 from the port of New Orleans. He sailed in both the engine and steward departments . Brother Cox upgraded his engine department rating to QMED at the Lundeberg School. He began receiving his pension in December 1983. NATHANIEL P. DA VIS Pensioner Nathaniel P. Davis, 69, passed away December9, 1994. Anative of k· Lowell, Mass., he joined the SIU in 1959 in the port of New York. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Davis retired in August 1987. JOHN M. DWYER John M. · Dwyer, 49, died on July ·' 22, 1994. He ;fl joined the '" union in 1988 in the port of Houston. Brother Dwyer sailed in the deck department. A native of New York, he served in the U.S . Anny from 1966 to 1968. SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Feight retired in April 1970. DAVID FAGAN David Fagan, 34, passed away October 8, 1994. Born in California, he joined the ~ Seafarers in 1991 in the ,,J port of New Orleans. Brother Fagan sailed in the deck department. EDWARD A.FAHY Pensioner Edward A. Fahy, 65, died January 8. Born in Philadelphia, he signed on with the SIU in 1955 in the port of New York. He sailed in the engine department and attended upgrading courses at the Lundeberg School in 1967. Brother Fahy began receiving his pension in December 1986. HAWTHORNE H. FRASER Pensioner Hawthorne H. Fraser, 79, died October 3, 1994. Born in Trinidad, West Indies, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1954 in the port of Wilmington, Calif., before that union merged with the SIU' s AGLIWD. Brother Fraser began receiving his pension in November 1974. ALPHONSO R. GONZALES Pensioner Alphonso R. Gonzales, 84, passed away January 8. A native of Hawaii, he signed on with the ~'--..;;__;_.....J Seafarers in 1952 in the port of New Orleans. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Gonzales attended a union conference in 1975 at the Lundeberg School. He retired in December 1976. GEORGE R. GRAHAM Pensioner George R. ·' Graham, 76, died December 14, 1994. Born in North Dakota, Brother Graham = --=-'-== joined the SIU in 1944 in the port of New York. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Graham began receiving his pension in June 1983. HORACE C. GRAY Pensioner Horace C. Gray, 92, passed away December2, 1994. Anative of Alabama, he signed on L:-.....::........:.:::..:.:_:.==-=--___:.____J with the union in 1946 in the port of Mobile, Ala. as a member of the engine department. Brother Gray retired in November 1967. EDWARD L. HAYNIE GERALD E. FEIGHT Pensioner Gerald E. Feight, 70, passed away October 8, 1994. Brother Feight was a member of the Marine Cooks and Stewards, before that union merged with the Edward L. Haynie, 61, died December 15, 1994. Born in Virginia, he signed on with the Seafarers in 1965 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Brother Haynie sailed in the engine department, and upgraded to QMED at the Lundeberg School. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1951to1954. Brother Penns served in the U.S. Army for eleven years. He retired in September 1989. ANDREW GREEN SIMPSON PHILIPS Pensioner Andrew Green, 75, died December 22, 1994. Born in Arkansas, he began sailing with the union in 1969 from the port of San Francisco. He shipped in the steward department. Brother Green began receiving his pension in November 1989. Pensioner Simpson Philips, 91, passed away November 15, 1994. He signed on with the Marine Cooks and Stewards in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Philips began receiving his pension in July 1966. HORACE HAMILTON Pensioner Horace Hamilton, 74, passed away October 17, 1994. A native of Dallas, he joined the Marine Cooks and '-------~ Stewards in 1955 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Hamilton upgraded his steward department rating at the Lundeberg School. He retired in September 1985. CLIFFORD E. PREVATT Pensioner Clifford E. ' Prevatt, 74, died in March 1994. He began sailing with the Seafarers in 1948 from the port of Tampa, Fla. Brother Prevatt sailed in the engine department. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. A native of Florida, Brother Prevatt retired in April 1982. NATHANIEL RICHARDSON Pensioner Nathaniel Richardson, 75, died September 30, ARTHUR G. JAVIER 1994. He joined the Pensioner Arthur G. Javier, 86, Marine Cooks passed away September 23, 1994. and Stewards Born in the Philippine Islands, he in 1951 in the joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards, before that union merged I port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother AGLIWD. Brother Richardson Javier began receiving his pension retired in December 1983. in July 1971. RASMUS JENSEN Pensioner Rasmus Jensen, 100, died August 18, 1994. A native of Denmark, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1930 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Jensen retired in March 1959. CASIMIR J. KROWICKI Pensioner Casimir J. Krowicki, 75, passed away December 28, 1994. He began sailing with the SIU in 1946 from =~--~ the port of Galveston, Texas. Brother Krowicki sailed in the deck department. He erved in the U.S. Am1y during World War II. Brother Krowicki began receiving his pension in November 1985. ADOLPH NEBEL Pensioner Adolph Nebel, 90, died November 5, 1994. Born in Germany, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Nebel retired in September 1974. JOHN W. PENNS Pensioner John W. Penns, 69, died June 29, 1994. After , graduating from the Andrew Furuseth =='---==---.:::.__.=== Training School in 1956, Brother Penns signed on with the SJU in his native state of New York. He sailed in the engine department and upgraded frequently at the Lundeberg School. INLAND JUAN REYES Juan Reyes, 48, died September 7, 1994. Born in Puerto Rico, he joined the Seafarers in 1976 in the port of San Juan, P.R. Boatman Reyes sailed in the deck department. ANTHONY "TONY" ROSSI Pensioner Anthony "Tony" Rossi, 70, passed away December 26, 1994. A native of Pennsylvania, he signed on with the union in 1951 in the port of Baltimore. During his career, Boatman Rossi advanced in the deck department, last sailing as a tugboat captain. He retired in November 1987. GREAT LAKES JOSEPH J. CHERVENKA Pensioner Joseph J. Chervenka, 88, died December 12, 1994. Brother Chervenka signed on with the Seafarers in 1947 in the port of Duluth, Minn. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Chervenka served in the U.S. Army during World War II. He began receiving his pension in January 1974. FISHERMEN CARLOS GASPER Pensioner Carlos Gasper, 71, died December 10, 1994. Brother Gasper joined the union in 1968 in the port of Boston, and shipped in the deck department. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II, 1942 to 1946. Brother Gasper began receiving his pension in June 1987. �22 FEBRUARY 1995 SEAFARERS LOG Lundeberg School Graduating Classes SCHOOL HARRY LIFEBOAT CLASS 532 Trainee Lifeboat Class 532- Graduating from trainee lifeboat class 532 are (from left, kneeling) Adnan K. Nasser, Edward Siu, Victor Smith, Marcos Rivera, Christopher Madore, (second row) Bob Boyle (instructor), Keith Neathery, Mariano Lopez, Jorge E. Soler, Louis Pauole, Samuel Zaso, Scott L. Sumners, Michael Thompson, Christopher Duffy Jr., Stanley E. Howard and Martiz D. Summerville. Upgraders Lifeboat- Certificates of training were received by the graduating class of upgraders on January 10. They are (from left) Bob Boyle (instructor), Robert M. Amon, Victor Frazier, James Johnson, Rodney Roberson Sr. and Andre Holmes. Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership's money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fu11y their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member's shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR SEAFARERS VACATION FUND This is a summary of the annual report of the Seafarers Vacation Fund, EIN 13-5602047, Plan No. 503, forthe period January 1, 1993 through December31, 1993. The annual report has been filed with the Internal Revenue Service, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). The trust has committed itself to pay claims incurred under the terms of the plan. BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENT The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $7,914,933 as of December 31, 1993, compared to $4,880,007 as of January 1, 1993. During the plan year, the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $3,034,926. This increase includes unrealized appreciation and depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the value of the plan's assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year or the cost of assets acquired during the year. During the plan year, the plan had a total income of $40, 107,938, including employer contributions of $39,616,716, realized losses of $46,816 from the sale of assets, and earnings from investments of $538,038. Plan expenses were $37,073,012. These expenses included $4,712,989 in administrative expenses, $30,061,066 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries and $2,298,957 in other expenses (payroll taxes on vacation benefits). YOUR RIGHTS TO ADDITIONAL INFORMATION You have the right to recejve a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: 1. An accountant's report, 2. Assets held for investment, 3. Transactions in excess of 5% of plan assets and 4. Service provider and trustee infonnation. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of Mr. Nicholas J. Marrone, plan administrator of the Seafarers Vacation Fund, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746; telephone (301) 899-0675. The charge to cover copying costs wi 11 be $ l. 80 for the full annual report, or 10 cents per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan (Board of Trustees, Seafarers Vacation Fund, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746) and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, DC, or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: Public Disclosure Room, N-5507, Pension and Welfare Benefits Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20210. available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Au th Way Camp Springs, MD .20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing forovertime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY - THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union. officerormember. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers WG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to cany out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headqu~rs. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION -SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNION-If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. �23 SEAFARERS LOG FEBRUARY 1995 LUNDEBER6 SCHOOL 1995 UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE The following is the course schedule for classes beginning between February and July 1995 at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship located at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. All programs are geared to improve job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. The course schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and-in times of conflict-the nation's security. Please note that students should check in the Friday before their course's start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. Deck Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Able Seaman July 31 October20 Bridge Management (Shiphandling) April 24 July 17 Mays July 28 Lifeboatman July 17 July 28 Limited License/License Prep. July 3 Augustll Radar Observer/Unlimited February27 April 17 May22 July 10 March 10 April21 May26 July 14 Steward Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Assistant Cook/Cook and Baker Chief Cook, Chief Steward March27 Junes June 16 August25 Engine Upgrading Courses Date of Completion Course Start Date Diesel Engine Technology April 14 March20 July 28 July 3 (to be announced) Refrigeration Technician Certification Fireman/W atertender & Oiler Hydraulics Marine Electrical Maintenance I Marine Electrical Maintenance II Power Plant Maintenance Pumproom Maintenance Refrigerated Containers Welding March20 Mayl February 20 Junes May22 July 31 March 13 April 24 July 17 March27 April 24 February 20 April 24 June2 July 14 March24 July7 June30 Septembers April 21 June2 August25 April 7 May19 March 17 May19 All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. Inland Courses Safety Specialty Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion March27 May29 February 27 April 10 July 24 April 10 May8 May22 July 17 April 7 June9 March 10 April 21 August4 April 21 May12 June2 July 28 Course Start Date Date of Completion Deck Inland Advanced Firefighting March 6 March 17 Oil Spill Safety Recertification February23 March 30 April 27 May25 June22 July 20 February 23 March30 April 27 May2S June22 July 20 Diesel DDE/Limited License Prep. Sealift Operations and Maintenance June 5 June 30 Tanker Operations February27 March 27 April 24 May22 June 19 July 17 March 24 April 21 May19 June 16 July 14 Augustll Engineroom Familiarization Radar Observer (Inland) Welding Electronics Additional Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion GED Preparation Mayl July 21 Adult Basic Education (ABE) and English as a Second Language (ESL) April 3 June5 May26 July 28 Recertification Programs Course Start Date Date of Completion Bosun Recertification Mayl Junes Course Start Date Date of Completion Steward Recertification July 3 August 7 Session II Junes July 28 Deck and Engine Department College Courses --~----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- UP6RADIN6 APPL/CAT/ON Primary language spoken-------~---- (Street) (City) (State) (Zip Code) Date of Birth _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Telephone_....__ _....__ _ _ _ __ With this application, COPIES of your discharges must be submitted showing sufficient time to qualify yourselffor the course(s) requested. You also must submit a COPY of each of the following: the first page ofyour union book indicating your department and seniority, your clinic card and the front and back of your z-card as well as your Lundeberg School identification card listing the course(s) you have taken and completed. The Admissions Office WILL NOT schedule you until all of the above are received. (Monlh/Day/Year) (Area Code) Deep Sea Member D Lakes Member D Inland Waters Member D COURSE BEGIN DATE END DATE If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security # Book # _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ S e n i o r i t y - - - - - - - - - - - - - Department _ _ _ _ _ __ U.S. Citizen: D Yes D No Home Port - - - - - - - - - - - Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ LAST VESSEL: - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Rating: _ _ _ __ Date O n : - - - - - - - - - - Are you a graduate of the SHLSS trainee program? DYes DNo If yes, class# - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Have you attended any SHLSS upgrading courses? DNo DYes If yes, course(s) taken _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Date Off: - - - - - - - - - - SIGNATURE_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _~D.ATE ~~~~~~~ NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? D Yes D No Firefighting: D Yes D No CPR: D Yes DNo RETURN COMPLETED APPLICATION TO: Lundeberg Upgrading Center, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674. 2/95 -. �IN THIS ISSUE: SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT Seafarers Vacation Fund -Page 22 Volume 57, Number 2 February 1995 Newark Bay and Scores of Ships Converge To Aid in Rescue of Ukrainian Seamen The SIU-crewed Newark Bay was one of 32 ships from 18 different nations which abandoned its regular operations to aid in a rigorous search and rescue effort aimed at finding 31 Ukrainian seamen after their vessel sank in a brutal storm in the North Atlantic. The Newark Bay, a Sea-Land Service containership, received an all-points bu11etin from the U.S. Coast Guard notifying the captain and crew that a Ukrainian merchant vessel, the Salvador Allende, had gone down in the predawn hours of Friday, December 9, 1994 about 1,200 miles east of New York and 750 miles southeast of Nova Scotia. The 450-foot Ukrainian-flagged vessel was sailing from Texas to Helsinki, Finland with a load of rice when it was caught in a storm with 40-foot waves and 50-mph winds. According to Associated Press news reports, the Ukrainian cargo ship began taking on water and listing badly to its port side before sinking, forcing all 31 crewmembers to abandon ship. The Coast Guard requested that all vessels within a 500-mile radius report to the area where the Allende sank in the violent storm. The Newark Bay was on its way back to Elizabeth, NJ. after completing a 28-day run to northern Europe when the captain received the emergency radio ca11. "When we were contacted, I was on whee] watch, and the captain began looking at the charts to plot out our course," AB George Perry told a reporter for the Seafare rs LOG. "We turned the ship about 180 degrees and headed south. It took us about 12 hours to get to the area in which the vessel had sunk and a bit more chances for survival. The Newark Bay and dozens of other merchant ships arrived SEARCH AREA • \ Newark Bay 61,000 sa. Ml. during the night to the area of the ENLARGEMENT sunken cargo ship ready to search \ diverted to OF SEARCH AREA for the Ukrainian seamen. • 39°00'N SHOWN BELOW Despite the drops of supplies \ 49°ao·w IN SMALL SCALE MAP and the ship reinforcements, when rescue efforts resumed the 39°39'N 51°16'W •:soN 49ow next morning, no survivors could Salvador Allende Newark Bay be found. News reports stated sinks ordered to none of the ships was able to spot any of the Allende crew in the search in search for survivors that spanned 7 mile radius ATLANTIC six days and 61,000 square miles around OCEAN of sea. this position The Newark Bay scanned 154 square miles for two days for survivors before the Coast Guard ATIANTIC called off the search. AB Perry, OCEAN who was the helmsman throughout most of the containership' s search efforts, noted that bridge wing lookouts 400 20° 60° were posted on the Newark Bay The search for Allende survivors concentrated in an area 1,200 around the clock during the search and rescue operation. miles east of New York and 750 miles southeast of Nova Scotia. Perry also stated that he heard time to reach the site that the jacket to keep him afloat in the over the radio that some emergenCoast Guard designated for us," stormy seas. The military helicop- cy equipment had been recovered reca11ed the AB. ter spotted the Ukrainian seaman While the Newark Bay was en 70 miles outside the search area. He route, two tankers were the first to also was not injured. Early press reports said all but arrive at the scene shortly after midnight, more than 17 hours three of the 31 Allende crewmemafter the ship sank. Battling the bers had been spotted by aircraft, waves, foreign-flagged Torungen drifting amid the 60-mile-long and Benny Queen took directions patch of debris marking the from U.S. Coast Guard planes sunken ship. However, the comflying above. The Torungen was bination of high waves, fierce able to pu11 to safety a Ukrainian winds and onset of night crewmember from a lifeboat hampered rescue efforts and caught in the squall. Apart from caused all attempts to save the pure exhaustion, the seaman sur- Ukrainian seamen to be put off vived the disaster without injury. until daylight. U.S. Coast Guard aircraft dropped radios, food, AB Craig Amison stood as a lookout A econd survivor was pluckwater and emergency supplies to aboard the Newark Bay during the ed from the sea by a U.S Air Nasome of the Allende crewmem- search for survivors of the sunken tional Guard helicopter after bers to help them endure the Salvador Allende, a Ukrainian having drifted for more than 24 rough seas and improve their cargo ship. hours with little more than his life Newark Bay receives SOSe at 42°04'N 50°49'W . ~ Captain Robert Haagenson plotted a course for the Newark Bay when the U.S. Coast Guard notified him of a sunken Ukrainian vessel. but no survivors had been found. "Of the 31 Ukrainian crewmem bers, 29 are presumed deceased and their bodies remain unrecovered," stated Rich Perry, a Coast Guard representative from the Atlantic Area Command center in New York, which spearheaded the rescue efforts. "Their bodies are now in the hands of mother nature. We did everything we could." "We searched long and hard but we never found anything. It was pretty sad knowing so many seamen had just perished," added AB Perry. David Frantz prepared special sandwiches and refreshments around the clock for Newark Bay crewmembers during the search and rescue mission. Help Locate Missing Child The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children has asked the Seafarers International Union to assist them in locating Savanna Catherine Todd. She was abducted from Isle of Palms, S.C. by her non-custodial mother, Dorothy Lee Barnett, when she was 11 months old. A felony warrant for kidnapping has been issued in her name. (She also goes by the name Lee Barnett Todd or Lee Barnett.) Now 20 months old, Savanna Catherine Todd, who also may be known as Savanna Lee Barnett, was 2 ft. 6 in. ta1l when she was abducted. The light brown-haired, hazel-eyed child has a sma11 birthmark near her navel. Anyone having information on the whereabouts of Savanna Catherine Todd should contact the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children at (800) 843-5678 or the Missing Persons Unit of the Federal Bureau oflnvestigation (South Carolina) at (803) 722-0135. Savanna Catherine Todd AB George Perry (center) was on watch when the Coast Guard requested the vessel's aid in a search for 31 Ukrainian seamen. Also among the Sea-Land Newark Bay's crewmembers who participated in the rescue effort were Chief Steward Alphonso Holland (left) and AB Richard Houghton. After the scouting mission, the ship returned to the U.S., docking in Elizabeth, N.J., where above photo was taken. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 1990-1999 Description An account of the resource Volumes LII-LXI Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993; Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource February 1995 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES SIU’S WORK-TAX LAWSUIT MOVES TO APPEALS COURT MSC CHIEF: PREPOSITIONING SHIPS KEY TO NATION’S SEALIFT ASSETS APL FLAG-OUT WAIVER VIOLATES U.S. LAW, CHARGE SIU UNIONS SENATE COMBINES MARITIME, TRANSPORT BODIES; THREE HOUSE COMMITTEES COVER MARINE ISSUES EARTHQUAKE SHATTERS KOBE PORT’S CRANES SHIPS DOCKING IN OTHER PORTS EUROPEAN SHIPPING SURVIVES FLOODS RANDOM DRUG TEST POOL REDUCED BY FEDERAL REGULATIONS BILL ALLOWING EXPORT OF ALASKA OIL ON U.S.-FLAG SHIPS BEFORE CONGRESS APPLICANTS MUST BE SCREENED FOR USE OF ILLEGAL SUBSTANCES LAKES’ SEAFARERS REFLECT ON ’94 SEASON DRY-CARGO SHIPS, TANK BARGES NEED COFR 1,000-PLUS TANKERS PROVE ABILITY TO PAY SPILL DAMAGES GOV’T TASK FORCE PLAN BALANCES VITAL PORT DREDGING, ENVIRONMENT LUEDTKE PRESIDENT DIES AT 64 BOAT OPERATORS NEED RADAR ENDORSEMENT PORT COURSES ENABLE SIU BOATMEN TO MEET FEB. 15 RADAR DEADLINE SIU ASKS COURT TO VOID APL-FLAG-OUT WAIVER BUDGET-DRIVEN CONGRESS LOOKS AT FOOD AID CUTS MARITIME JURISDICTION DISTRIBUTED IN HOUSE; SENATE MERGES MARINE, TRANSPORT SUBCOMMITTEE MARMO DIES, WAS HEAD OF VACATION PLAN LOUISANA-BASED WWII MARINERS ELIGIBLE FOR STATE BONUS OF $250 RETIRED BOSUN DAWSON, VETERAN OF 4 WARS, MAINTAINS PUSH FOR STRONG U.S.-FLAG FLEET SEAFARERS PRAISE NEW TANKER SAFETY COURSE PAUL HALL CENTER’S FOUR-WEEK CLASS IS RIGOROUS BUT ‘WORTH ALL THE TIME’ GALLEYS PROVIDE CHEER OVER HOLIDAYS AT SEA SIU SCHOLARSHIPS: WINDOWS TO THE FUTURE NEWARK BAY AND SCORES OF SHIPS CONVERGE TO AID IN RESCUE OF UKRAINIAN SEAMEN Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 02/01/1995 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 57, No. 2 1995 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/261471f8391a12a58a7c59c90c398ad9.pdf 021cfaff8363ae4ed9d60f8ca745e5b8 PDF Text Text GOP Congress Plan Moves Maritime to Defense Panel Page3 Volume 57, Number 1 January 1995 Ruling Issued on SIU's Lawsuit Against Seaman's Work Tax Horn• 1own USA - .. \2.345 ~.~ ­ . pjt1SbUJQh Judge Also Insists ~~~Agency Recalculate The Costs Involved Cit1zensh1P USA SSN· 12l4567&9 The U.S. Coast Guard cannot charge mariners for a background check, and it must redo its calculations of the costs involved in licensing seamen, a federal judge ruled in response to an SIU suit charging that such fees are a work tax on seamen. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Page3 .~ _.,,~·......,,...,.._~r .,· t,""'7';!',TP•'l.'<._.,,.,~,,_.~·-•·•··--...•.· . . ... ..... _..,,,. - ~ .....-~ :.. - - - ... -.. •.-.,, • ., ~ .•,..,, "•'-"• • t~1 ~: •u•<1 ,• . ~ ::S: '\ ,, ~ 11 • �2 SEAFARERS LOG JANUARY 1995 President's Report In Budget-Cutting Move, Justice Partially Secured The order by Judge Louis F. Oberdorfer on the SIU' s lawsuit against the U.S. Coast Guard's work tax on seamen represents both a win and a continued fight for Seafarers and others who earn their living aboard ships and boats. You will remember that the SIU filed suit against the agency for instituting charges-so-called user fees-for issuing seamen's z-cards and licenses. In that lawsuit, filed in April 1993 when seamen began being charged by the Coast Guard for services associated with their merchant mariner documents and licenses, such as evaluations, examinations and issuing the card or license, the union had two primary points. First, the union said, the fees were a work Michael Sacco tax on seamen. After all, mariners were being charged to go to work. The union argued that the Coast Guard had considered a mariner's ability to pay the socalled user fees. The union also noted that government agencies like the Coast Guard can only charge fees for a service that is of value to the recipient. In the case of marine documents and licenses, the SIU suit said, the beneficiaries of safe navigation are the public--coastal communities, passengers, owners of cargo-and the environment. Secondly, the SIU's lawsuit argued that the fees themselves were calculated incorrectly. After analyzing the data on which the Coast Guard based the fees for evaluating, testing and issuing zcards and licenses, the union felt that the numbers had been inflated and did not represent an accurate picture of the true costs involved. In late November, the judge issued his ruling on the case. The SIU received notice of his order early last month. The judge's decision was a win for Seafarers and all mariners in that he agreed with our contention that the fees had been calculated in such a way as to raise questions as to their validity and reliability. His order that the Coast Guard must recalculate the fees should have the result of lowering the costs that the agency originally determined by using what we consider flawed data. Judge Oberdorfer's ruling that the FBI background check is not a cost that can be passed on to seamen and boatmen also scores a victory for mariners. The judge found that the beneficiary of this check is maritime safety, not the seaman. This decision by the judge should mean that the Coast Guard will have to stop charging the $17 it claimed was the cost of a criminal records check. But it is Judge Oberdorfer's position that the Coast Guard is within its rights to charge a fee for the issuance of z-cards and licenses, which represents the area in which the SIU must continue to fight. Essentially, the judge ruled that it is not "irrational" to assume that seamen and boatmen get some benefit from being documented and licensed by the Coast Guard. The SIU, in its lawsuit, demonstrated that every action taken by the United States government in the area of documenting and licensing seamen and boatmen had come about as a response to major shipping accidents that caused thousands of passenger deaths, high losses of cargo or vast damage to the environment. It is worth noting that Judge Oberdorfer acknowledged that the union had provided the court with "an impressive array of historical materials to demonstrate that licensing has historically been intended to protect the government's ability to conduct waterborne commerce and shipping property interests." But despite what the judge called "these well-reasoned arguments," he said that the government's position that mariners received some private benefit from being documented and licensed was not "irrelevant." To this end, the judge basically said he had to assume that seamen and boatmen themselves derived some benefit from holding a document or a license that provides professional employment. It is this concept that the union and seamen and boatmen must continue to challenge. Currently the union is reviewing its options to appeal this particular aspect of the judge's ruling. Additionally, the SIU is looking at other avenues of protest-including a legislative strategy. Meanwhile, all Seafarers and mariners throughout the U.S. can take pride in their efforts to fight this unjust taxation which stemmed from the Congress' attempt to reduce the federal government's deficit in 1990. We have successfully chiseled away much of what we regard as a work tax. Bit by bit, we are winning. Volume 57, Number 1 January 1995 The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 0160-2047) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District; AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Second-class postage paid at MSC Prince Georges, MD 20790-9998 and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Managing Editor, Daniel Duncan; Associate Editors, Jordan Biscardo and Corrina Christensen Gutierrez; Associate Editor/Production, Deborah A. Hirtes; Art, Bill Brower; Administrative Support, Jeanne Textor. Clinton Seeks to Pare DOT And Move MarAd Functions Republican Budget Panel Looks.to Cut FMC In what is likely to be one of a host of budget-slashing proposals put forward by the administration and Republican and Democratic congressmen, President Clinton last month announced his recommendations for billions of dollars in reductions of federal expenditures over the next five years. Under Clinton's plan, unveiled at a December 19 press conference, the Department of Transportation (DOT), one of several departments to be downsized, would be reduced in half over five years and its 10 agencies reconfigured into three divisions. The Maritime Administration' s functions would be transferred to a super-maritime section under DOT auspices, transport officials announced. While the president looks for ways to cut federal outlays, House Republicans also are preparing their own suggestions for cutting government. For example, the House Budget Committee's soon-to-be-chairman, Representative John Kasich (R-Ohio), is proposing that the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) be eliminated. Should the new budget committee chairman prevail, the independent agency, which ensures that ocean shipping fees are fair to American shippers, shipping companies and customers, would no longer be funded. Democratic officials have interpreted the 1994 general election results as a mandate for making government leaner and less obtrusive. At the same time, both the president, in his election in 1992, and the 1994 Republican congressional candidates promoted in their campaigns the idea of tax cuts for America's middle class. The spending cuts President Clinton is putting forth bolster his proposals to institute tax cuts for middle class Americans, which he outlined in early December. Under congressional budget rules, any plan that reduces income to the federal treasury, such as tax cuts, must be offset with reductions in spending to prevent a furthering of the nation's debt. Re-Fashioning DOT Joining President Clinton at the White House for the December 19 press conference, DOT Secretary Federico Pena outlined a proposed $6.7 billion cut in the transportation department's expenditures over a five-year period. Pena said the cuts would be made by consolidating DOT' s 10 agencies-including the Maritime Administration, the U.S. Coast Guard and the Saint Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation-into three sections, making the Federal Aviation Administration an independent enLean Gov't Theme tity, most likely under private The newly elected Republican operation, and restructuring the majority in Congress as well as department's grant, loan and subPresident Clinton and sidy programs, among them mechanisms that have bolstered U.S.-flag shipping and American shipbuilding. As yet, the administration has not announced its intentions for the FMC. For the three new sections encompassing the 10 agencies currently under DOT' s roof, there are two options put forward in the administration's budget-cutting plan. One calls for three divisions organized by function-Coast Guard, transportation safety and infrastructure investment. The second option divides responsibilities by class of transportaviation, maritime and surface (rails and highways). Congress Must Adopt The administration's plan to diminish government spending is not the only one surfacing in the nation's capital. Along with the House Budget Committee's Republican proposals to reduce government spending, other GOP congressmen and senators are developing recommendations for other moves aimed at trimming federal outlays and creating tax cuts for the middle class. Additionally, Congressman Richard A. Gephardt (D-Mo.), who will be minority leader in the new congress convening in late January, is preparing a tax cut proposal. The president's plans for tax cuts and reduced federal spending will be submitted to Congress as the administration's recommended 1995 budget. Any plans to restructure government and reduce federal expenditures must be enacted by Congress. Seafarers Join AFL-CIO Protest of Interest Rate Hike Seafarers joined with the AFLC 10 on November 15 in a protest outside the Federal Reserve Board headquarters in Washington, D.C. The trade unionists, joined by unemployed workers, farmers, economists and others, object to the board's raising of interest rates for the sixth time in 1o months. The 0.75 percent increase makes it more expensive for individuals and businesses to borrow money, affecting everything from job growth to mortgage payments, and from business investments to consumer spending. �JANUARY 1995 SEAFARERS LOG SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION NORTH AMERICA, ~' OF) ) ) ) ) ) Plaintiffs, v. civil Action No. 93-0787-LFO ) UNITED STATES COAST GUARD, ~ 6f1i>JIJ ~· ) _ _ _ _ _ _Defendants. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _)> ~ MOV 2~ '9M Cl.£RI(, u. s. CLSTRIC't cou.Rli DlSTRlCl OE ooLUJo1.I'~ . d . the accompanying Memorandum, it is For the reasons state in I ~994 hereby • S ") ~ day Of I t t th1 t...:..summary Judgmen t plaintiff's Motion for tha ORDERED: respect to fees f or FBI GRAN'IED IN PART with should be, and is, and it is further background checks; and is, prohibited from that defendant should be, ORDERED: l'cants for licenses, background checks to app i charging for FBI . documents pursuant and merchant marine certificates of registry Final Rule dated March 19, Transportation's to Department Of Reg. 15228: and it is further 1993, 58 Fed. Judgment intiff's Motion for summary ORDERED: that p 1 a . fees PART with respect to all other should be, and is, DENIED IN registry and merchant marine for licenses, certificates of Court Nixes Portion of Seaman Tax Judge Rules on SIU's Lawsuit Against Z-Cards/License Fees The U.S. Coast Guard must cease charging seamen and boatmen for an FBI background check, a federal district judge ruled in his order stemming from the SIU ' s lawsuit against the agency's so-calJed user fees for issuing merchant mariner documents and marine licenses. The judge's invalidation of charge for the FBI check should mean that those seamen and boatmen who paid this fee ultimately will get a $17 refund from the Coast Guard. In his November 23 ruling, received by the union in early December, Judge Louis F. Oberdorfer of the United States District Court for the District of documents: and it is further Columbia also ordered the agenfor summary Judgment cy to recalculate the fees. He t defendant's Motion ORDERED: tha based his decision on the SIU's DENIED: and it is further argument that the manner in should be, and is, d d to the coast Guard to which the agency figured its costs that this matter is reman e ORDERED: associated with issuing docuand documenting activities ts of its licensing ments and licenses was flawed. recalculate the cos i.'ts fees . d to reassess Public Vs. Private Benefit 'th this opinion an in accordance W1 The union also had argued that ' t is further b the fees themselves constituted a aceordingly: and i recalculations shall e work tax and, as such, were unORDERED: that the coast Guard's con s ti tu ti o nal. However, the subject to notice and comment. judge claimed the Coast Guard was within its rights in charging ~ ~ Yt~le-=seamen and boatmen for their z~--"'1 °iTED STATES DISTRICT JUDGE cards and licenses. Judge Oberdorfer ruled that under the law, seamen and boatThe Coast Guard must cease charging seamen for an FBI background check, according to a ruling on men can be charged for docuthe SIU's lawsuit against fees the agency is charging for the issuance of z-cards and licenses. ments and licenses if they derive r .. - a benefit from having them. The SIU argued that the legislative history of documenting and licensing seamen expressly indicates that the intended beneficiaries of those laws were passengers, vessel and cargo owners and the environment. Judge Oberdorfer, in his memorandum accompanying the order, noted that the SIU' s case had "cited to an impressive array of historical materials to demonstrate that licensing has historically been intended to protect the government's ability to conduct waterborne commerce and shipping property interests." "Despite these well-documented arguments," the judge said, the government's position that seamen and boatmen derive an independent benefit from being documented and licensed "cannot be presumed to be irrelevant." The government's "central contention that the license confers the benefit of professional employment is not irrational," he stated. Chances of an Appeal Both the Department of Justice, which represented the Coast Guard in the case, and the SIU have until January 23 to file an appeal, so it is unlikely the Coast Guard will act on the judge's Continued on page 8 Maritime to Move to House Defense Panel Republicans Split Merchant Marine Committee Jurisdiction Maritime matters will be taken up by the House National Security Committee if a House reorganization plan proposed by the incoming Republican majority is adopted when the 104th congressional session convenes toward the end of this month. Under the proposal developed by soon-to-be Speaker of the House, Newt Gingrich (R-Ga.), the House Merchant Marine and Fisheries Committee will be abolished and its jurisdiction transferred to three panels-merchant marine issues to National Security, inland shipping affairs and U.S. Coast Guard matters to Transportation and Infrastructure and fisheries policies to Public Lands and Resources. Merchant Marine to Defense Formerly the House Armed Services Committee, the National Security panel will have jurisdiction over U.S.-flag shipping construction and operation and laws that make up the nation's maritime policies, such as the Jones Act governing cabotage requirements and cargo preference which requires that portions of government-financed cargoes be carried on U.S.-flag carriers. The committee also will oversee the Ready Reserve Force, the government's lay-up fleet of former commercial vessels. Also under the committee's jurisdiction are merchant marine officers and seamen, according to the rule which will institute the reorganization plan if adopted by Congress. USCG, MarAd to Transport The Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, under the plan, will handle affairs concerning the Coast Guard, Maritime Administration and Federal Maritime Commission. The committee, renamed from Public Works and Transportation, also will have jurisdiction over the nation's inland waterways. Fisheries concerns now will be under the management of the newly named Public Lands and Resources Committee, previously known as the Public Works and Transportation Committee. Expected to head these three committees are Floyd Spence (RS. C. ), National Security; Bud Shuster (R-Pa.), Transportation and Don Young CR-Alaska), Infrastructure and Public Lands and Resources. Reform of Procedures Among the other changes proposed by House Republican officials is the elimination of two other committees-the Post Office and Civil Service and the District of Columbia panels . These will be consolidated with the Government Operations Committee into a new panel entitled Government Refonn and Oversight. Titis reduces the number of House committees from 23 to 20. The Republicans also plan to change the rules which govern committee activities. The GOP plan, presented by Representative David Dreier (R-Calif.) at a news conference on December 2 and adopted by the House Republican Conference on December 7, proposes to cut committee staffs by one-third, eliminate more than two dozen of 115 subcommittees, limit committee chairmanships to three consecutive terms and ban proxy voting. Also, the party intends to open all committee hearings and voting sessions to the public and press. THE NEW NATIONAL SECURITY COMMITIEE A rule drafted by the House Republicans, now the majority party in Congress, outlines the GO P's plan to reorganize Congress. The merchant marine issues formerly handled by the House Merchant Marine and Fisheries Committee, which is dismantled under the plan, will be transferred to the jurisdiction of the National Security Committee (known before as the Armed Services Committee) . Below is the list of National Security Committee members as listed by the office of the Republican leader {Newt Gingrich) and the Democratic leader (Richard A. Gephardt) . It will be comprised of 30 Republicans and 25 Democrats. Republicans Democrats Floyd D. Spence (S.C.), Chmn. Bob Stump (Ariz.) Duncan Hunter (Calif.) John R. Kasich (Ohio) Herbert H. Bateman CVa.) James V. Hansen (Utah) Curt Weldon (Penn.) Robert K. Dornan (Calif.) Joel Hefley (Colo.) H. James Saxton (N.J.) Randy "Duke" Cunningham (Calif.) Steve Buyer (Ind.) PeterG. Torkildsen (Mass.) Tillie Fowler (Fla.} James M. Talen (Mo.) Terry Everett (Ala.) Roscoe G. Bartlett (Md.} Howard P. McKeon (Calif.) Ron Lewis~Ky. ) J.C. Watts Okla.) William M. hornberry (Texas) John Hostettler (Ind.) Saxby Chambliss (Ga.) Van Hilleary (Tenn.) Joe Scarborough (Fla.) Walter B. Jones Jr. (N.C.) James B. Longley Jr. (Maine) Todd Tiahrt (Kansas) · John M. McHugh (N.Y.) Richard Hastings (Wash.) Ronald V. Dellums (Calif.) G.V. ~sonny" Montgomery (Miss.) Patricia Scflroeder (Colo.) Ike Skelton (Mo.) Norman Sisisky (Va.) John M. Spratt Jr. (S.C.} Solomon P. Ortiz (texas) Owen B. Pickett (Va.) Lane Evans (Ill.) John S. Tanner (Tenn.) Glen Browder {Ala~ Gene Taylor (Miss. Neil Abercrombie ( awaii) Chet Edwards (Texas) Frank Tejeda (lexas) Martin T. Meehan (Mass.) Robert A. Underwood (Guam) Jane Harman <Calif.) Paul McHale (Penn.} Pete Geren (Texas) Pete Peterson (Fla.) Bill Jefferson (la.) Rosa Delauro (Conn.) Mike Ward (Ky.) Patrick Kennedy (R.1.) 3 �4 SEAFARERS LOG JANUARY 1995 Shipping Omitted from GATI St. Louis Official Sigler Retires Ltlbor Opposes World Trade Accord Maritime services were not included in the world trade agreement passed by Congress last month, but the U.S., the European Union and five other countries soon will resume separate negotiations concerning worldwide shipping. If no agreement at liberalizing maritime transportation can be reached by June 1996, then ocean shipping will be completely left out of the World Trade Organization (WTO), according to terms of a side agreement reached in late 1993 aimed at speeding the passage of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATI). (GATT directly led to the formation of the WTO, an international body designed to govern commerce among nations. The WTO will have the power to enforce the new trade deal, including assessing trade penalties against nations which violate it.) The SIU welcomed maritime's exclusion from GATT but joined with fellow unions of the AFL-CIO in opposing the pact's passage in the first place. The U.S. federation of trade unions warned that GATT will result in job loss in the U.S. and will force American workers to directly compete with child laborers and other oppressed workers in foreign countries who literally earn pennies per day. At particular risk are U.S. clothing manufacturers, the AFLCIO stated. Further, the unions cautioned that GATT will increase the Federal deficit- a fact which the Senate essentially acknowledged when it voted to waive rules which prohibit passage of any bill that adds to the deficit. The lame-duck I 03rd Congress passed GATT by votes of 288-146 in the House and 76-24 in the Senate. The passage came under fast-track rules which prevent amendments, allowing only for a yes or no vote. Maintains Maritime Laws The exclusion of maritime servicesfromGATTallowstheU.S. to maintain all of its current maritime laws and practices, incl uding the Jones Act (the nation's maritime cabotage law) and cargo preference (statutes that allocate a portion of government-impelled cargoes to carriage on U.S.-flag ships). Late last year, there were indications that some aspects of maritime were being offered as part of GA~ by the 1:J.S., despite longstanding corrurutments from the U.S. government and other nations that ocean shipping would not be included in the trade pact. The SIU and others in the maritime community objected to maritime's incJusion, and eventually it was withdrawn. As part of the agreement to exclude maritime services, the U.S. agreed to take part in separate negotiations. Other Industries Exempted The overall GATT negotiating sessions lasted more than a dozen years. They initially were called to encompass a variety of services including agriculture, financial services, telecommunications and transportation into the global A seafarer for more than 50 years, St. Louis port official Joe Sigler (seated) was recognized recently by fellow SIU employees, intrading rules. Nations which signed the cluding Field Rep. Steve Jackson (holding ship's wheel), and agreementwillreducetheirtariffs members at the union hall. Brother Sigler went to sea in 1943 by an average of one-third. The when he was 16 years old. The first SIU vessel he sailed on was the Simmons Victory, owned by Bull Steamship Co. in 1952. He pact also prohibits countries from joined the union in 1961 in the port of Chicago. Sigler worked out limiting the quantity of imports. of the port of Chicago aboard Great Lakes Towing Co. tugs. Most Besides shipping, steel and recently, he represented the union in the port of St. Louis. telecommunications for the most part were omitted. There also ' - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - ' were no agreements on limiting government subsidies to civil aircraft manufacturers, distributII\! ing cultural products in Europe or on op.ening .markets to most financial services. December 28 marked the requirements are applicable to all deadline for self-propelled owners and operators of U.S. and tankers entering U.S. waters to foreign-flag vessels of more than guarantee their financial 300 gross tons that use the waters capability to pay for costs and of the exclusive economic zone damages resulting from an oil (which extends 200 nautical spill or other hazardous material miles off the U.S. coast) to tranship or lighter oil (whether The agreement therefore does spill. not override the laws of nations That guarantee comes in the delivering or receiving) destined which maintain higher standards form of a certificate of financial for a place subject to the jurisdicand qualification ·. responsi bility, mandated by a tion of the United States. U.S. Coast Guard regulation They also apply to all other Accidents Spur Update which stems from both the Oil vessels using the navigable The call on the IMO to update Pollution Act of 1990 (OPA '90) waters of the U.S. or any port the STCW came about in the and the Comprehensive Environ- subject to U.S. jurisdiction (since wake of numerous maritime dismental Response, Compensation they carry bunkers which may be asters-all attributed to human error-that took place during the and Liability Act (CERCLA), spilled). Exceptions to the regulation past few years, including the in- which was enacted in 1980. Because of the costs and comare vessels that are lighter than famous Braer incident of January 1993. In that accident, a Liberian- plexities of obtaining the certifi- 300 gross tons and non-selfflag tanker spilled 26 million gal- cates, there was some uncertainty propelled barges that do not carry Ions of oil into the North Sea when in the maritime community as to oil as cargo or fuel and that do not whether or not vessel owners carry hazardous substances as it went down during a storm. The IMO also has called for a would be able to comply with the cargo. Public vessels, including ru]e by December 28, 1994. But a thoroughreviewofsafetyforroll- last-minute rush by shipowners to ships owned by the military and on/roll-off passenger ferries, fol- obtain the documents allayed private ships bareboat-chartered lowing the disastrous capsize of most of those concerns and also by the military, also are exempt. the passenger ferry Estonia last quelled fears that the new regulaThere is a phase-in schedule of September. The convention itself is or- ti on would disrupt America's im- compliance dates. Self-propelled tankers must have complied by ganized into two parts: Articles ported oil supplies. Approximately 700 tankers December 28. The date for tank and Annex. The Articles establish the legal obligations of each sub- had been certified as of December barges is July 1, 1995. Other vesscribing party to certify mariners' 22. According to newspaper sels must comply when their excompetence as documented by reports, oil experts state that isting certificates of financial other parties, except in limited roughly 800 tankers are needed to responsibility expire, beginning circumstances. The Articles also keep the U.S . fully supplied with December 28. The rule requires vessel establish procedures by which the imported oil. (The U.S. uses more than 7 mil1ion barrels of imported operators to establish evidence of convention can be amended. financial responsibility sufficient The Annex is divided into six oil each day.) The cost of securing the certo meet potential liability under chapters containing technical regulations which apply to train- tificates(asmuchas$200,000per OPA '90 and CERCLA. These ing, certification and watchkeep- year for a large tanker) probably amounts range as high as $1,500 will passed on to consumers in the per gross ton or $15 million, ing for mariners. Ratified by the U.S. in 1991, form of nominally higher whichever is greater. Penalties for non-compliance the 1978STCWremainstheonly gasoline prices. However, acinternational treaty to establish cording to a report in The Wall range from a ci vii penalty of up to minimum standards for training Street Journal, gas prices initially $25,000 per day under OPA '90, and qualifying crewmembers for may rise by several cents per gal- to a Class I administrative civil Ion, due to some oil importers- penalty of up to $25,000 under seagoing duty. Besides monitoring the work believing there would be a CERCLA, to a Class II ad~f the STW to en~ure that the shortage of .certified. tanke~s- ministrative civil penalty or judimterests of U.S. manners are rep- recently paymg premmm pnces cial penalty of $25,000 per day of resented, the SIU also takes part to ~barter ships possessing the violation (or $75,000 per day for in these proceedings to work certificates. second or subsequent violations) toward increasing the qualificaThe financial responsibility under CERCLA. tions of the world's seamen. IMO Mariner Certification Pact Slated far Updating in 1995 International efforts continued last month to update a 1978 convention that established the minimum standards for certification, training and skills needed by mariners throughout the world. At the third meeting of the Intersessional Working Group (ISWG) on the revision of the 1978 International Convention on the Standards ofTraining, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), representatives of the SIU were on hand to speak out for the interests of U.S. merchant mariners. Among other accomplishments, they beat back potential attempts by contingents from foreign nations to reduce manning levels and mariner training requirements. The SIU group also continued to work against the suggestion of solo bridge watch at night. The meetings took place at the London headquarters of the IMO, an agency of the United Nations. The intersessional meetings are part of an ongoing series of va~ous wor~-group gath~rings which are desi~ned to modify the accord ~d w.hich are sche~uled to cu~mtnate m July. That ts the deadlme set by the IMO for completing the work of representatives from more than 90 nations which recognize the STCW treaty. The IMO, created by the United Nations in 1959 to improve safety at sea, has tasked its Subcommittee of Training and Watchkeeping (STW) to modify the '78 pact-specifically, by updating and matching training requirements with existing and anticipated technologies. (Many issues are discussed and revised during the intersessional meetings then subsequently are presented t~ the STW subcommittee meeting for consideration.) This revision is aimed at allowing the subcommittee to monitor things such as the fitness of watchstanders, fundamental training for mariners, fatigue, work-hour limits, rest periods and the manning implications of convention changes. Certification Options The original pact solely dealt with training and qualification to hold recognized positions (or titles) for both licensed and unlicensed personnel aboard ships. However, the STW has been examining possible alternative means to certify the same mariners by describing the functions each must perform to hold a particular position. As a result, the updated convention will offer both the traditional approach and a functional approach (also known as altemative certification) as systems for providing certification of vessel personnel. At last month's meeting, the drafting group on the principles governing the issuance of altemative certificates (in which the SIU . . p~c1p~ted) approved language s.tipulatmg !hat the. fina~ regulation governmg certification must not permit the issuance of altemative certific~tes to be us~d. to reducemanmnglevelsortrammg requirements. Because the ~.J.S. is a signatory to the convention, z-cards and licenses held by Ame~can merchant seamen 3!e recogru~ ~y the IMO. as m;etmg the cntena set forth m the. 7~ pact But ~e s~dards for trrurung and qualification that must be met by U.S. mariners are much greater than those outlined in the convention. Tan"er Owners Rush T0 Mee1 F•1nanc1a • 1 Regs �JANUARY 1995 SEAFARERS LOG Riverboat Workers Reaffirm SIU Representation Employees of the riverboat and other operations of the Alton Belle Casino company in Illinois reaffirmed their commitment to union representation by the SIU in a December 14 vote held under the auspices on the neutral government agency, the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB). Workers aboard the Alton Belle Casino riverboat, the Alton Landing barge and shoreside employees such as reservationists, first obtained SIU representation in 1991 after a vast majority of 90 percent of employees demonstrated to a neutral third party that they backed the Seafarers. The company voluntarily recognized that the SIU represented a majority of their employees. As a result, Alton Belle workers through their union, the SIU, and the company negotiated a collective bargaining agreement that covered their wages, benefits and working conditions. At that time, another union, the Hotel Employees and Restaurant Employees (HERE), filed a challenge to the SIU' s right to represent the Alton Belle Casino's workers. The challenge was fi1ed with the NLRB, the government agency that hctndles labor/management issues. HERE's challenge took three years to be resolved. Ultimately, it brought about a decision by the NLRB to hold an election conducted by the agency amongst the Alton Belle Casino's employees in which they could vote for either SIU representation, HERE representation or no union representation. In the December 14 election, the majority of those voting chose to stick with SIU representation, by a vote of 186 to 134. Only 12 votes were cast for no union representation. Scores of Alton Belle employees voluntarily engaged able to provide. "The SIU was there for me when I was sick. Also, my doctors' bills were paid without fail. That's why I support the • SIU," said Bob Barnes. "The SIU has always been 1 there for us. The last two-and-ahalf years with the SIU has been . great, and the health plan is · good," stated Connie Walswick. Other members praised the family-like feeling that being a "''o'(~J~ 1 member of the SIU gives them. "I've been a member of the SIU for two-and-a-half years and I think of the SIU as my second family," said Chris Corethers. Contributing to the successful election effort are (from left) SIU Alton Contract negotiations between Representative Patti Rogers Food Runner Gene Naylor, Cocktail the SIU and the company coverWaitress Connie Walswick and Deckhand Chris Corathers. ing more than 400 Alton Belle employees will begin this month. in a campaign on behalf of the because of the dedication the As a result of the NLRB-manSIU. Approximately 30 volun- union had shown toward the dated election, more than 100 teers handed out brochures and membership. flyers and personally called fel"I want an honest, loyal, hard- Alton Belle employees who were low crewmembers at home to en- working union for honest, loyal, not included in the previous concourage their participation in hard-working employees," stated tract will now be represented by union meetings, as well as in the Gina Macias, who is a cocktail the Seafarers, bringing the total number of Alton Belle Casino waitress. December vote. Cook Pamela Leuty noted, employees represented by the SIU representatives from the Alton union hall who headed the ''The SIU has been a great help to SIU to more than 480. Those included in the SIU barvolunteer efforts to keep the us. They have very good benefits riverboat workers infonned in- for all and they are there when gaining unit are all food and beverage personnel, deck/engine clude Tim Kelley, Lonnie you need them." Like Leuty, other Alton Belle department, housekeeping, tickPartridge and Patti Rogers. employees voted for SIU repre- eting/reservations, guest services, Kelley noted that while all sentation because they enjoyed gift shop/coat check, cage/credit Alton Belle volunteers did an ex- the benefits that the union was (money handlers), slot ceptional job, a few went above and beyond the normal efforts. Those who put forth the extra energy include Deli Worker Becky Venlet, Deckhand Chris Corethers, Hostess Connie McKay, Cocktail Waitress Connie Walswick, Housekeeper Steve Arnold, Food Runner Gene Naylor, Utility Bob Barnes, Mate Dave Wendie, and Housekeeper Sharon Tucker. Deckhands Antione Williams (left) and Harry Steingrubey put on their SIU caps in celebration of continued SIU representation. change/slot technicians, parts runners, shuttle bus drivers and warehouse workers. Only supervisors, corporate office clerical workers, security and live gaming personnel are excluded. Loyal Membership Several Alton Belle workers claimed they enjoyed being a Calling fellow crewmembers on the phone, encouraging them to vote in the December 14 election are Seafarer and voted for the union (from left) Cocktail Waitress Gina Macias, Deli Worker Becky Venlet and Housekeeper Sharon Tucker. Lakers' Winter Season Is Extended Through January An unusual combination of mild weather and a booming cargo demand keep Great Lakes Seafarers sailing into the new year despite an arduous beginning to the 1994 sailing season. The companies will try to push on as long as possible to make up for lost time at the beginning of the season due to the horrible ice Gateman Ted Stack drops by the Algonac hall before signing on the American Republic to sail on the iron ore shuttle between Lorain and Cleveland, Ohio. conditions. Ice usually begins to form on the Lakes by the end of December, but because of the mild weather, no ice had, as of the end of December, begun to form, and boats were able to keep up cargo shipments. Glen Nekvasil of the Lake Carriers' Association, an organization of U.S.-flag ship companies on the Lakes, summed up the reasons for the extended shipping season on the Great Lakes. Cargo Demand Is High "The demand for cargo on the Great Lakes has been very, very high, and I do not see the season ending until well into January. The temperature has fallen but there still is no ice on the waterswhich is a good sign," Nekvasil said. He added that while most Great Lakes vessels will come in for the winter by the 15th when the Soo Locks between Lake Superior and Lake Huron close for the season, some will continue sailing untilthe end of this month. . t f D. ona ld Pf 0 hi ' d irec 0 ~ 0 manne personnel for Amen can Steamship Co., said a majority of the SIU-crewed company vessels were scheduled to sail into the n e w year. The first of the company's ships to lay up was the John J. Boland in Sturgeon Bay, Wis. on December 26, while the Walter J. McCarthy Jr., St. Clair, Buffalo, Sam Laud and the Indiana Harbor are scheduled to lay up during the first part of this month. The American Mariner, H. Lee White and the Charles E. Wilson tentatively are scheduled to come in for the winter in midJanuary. "This has been a good year, and it shows when a majority of our ships aren't coming in until after the first of the year," stated Pfohl. The American Republic usually lays up in December but will keep shuttling iron ore between Lorain and Cleveland, Ohio until the end of this month. "This is very unusual for the Republic, but demand from the steel mills is so high that we want to be able to meet it, and with the weather cooperating, it looks as if we will be able to," Pfohl said. Erie Sand Steamship Co.' s Richard Reiss came in for the winter at the end of December, while the small dredges John R. Emery, Day Peckinpaugh and J S St .li0 h all 131·d · the ; D ~ ·. ·. be up m 0 gmnmg ecem r. The SIU-crewed cement carriers, traditionallythefirstvessels of the season to sail, lost between 12 and 15 days of sailing time due to the icy conditions on the Lakes at the beginning of the 1994 season. Inland Lakes Management's Paul H. Townsend, I.A. W. Iglehart and Alpena are all scheduled to lay up at the beginning of this month, while the S. T. Crapo went into the shipyard on September 24. The E.M. Ford laid up in Green Bay, Wis. at the beginning of December. Some Boats Lay Up Earlier The Kinsman Independence and Kinsman Enterprise both went into layup at the end of December. The Presque Isle, a Litton Great Lakes iron ore carrier, is sailing until mid-January in order to keep up with the high demand for iron ore. While the James A. Hannah and the Kristin Lee went into layup in December, most SIUcrewed OTS/Hannah Marine tugboats will continue running until the end of this month. The tugs push barges filled mainly with petroleum products on lakes Michigan, Huron and Erie. According to Nekvasil, shipments of all the various commodities carried aboard U.S.-flag lakers totaled 11.2 million tons in AB Charles Neigerbauer fills out his vacation forms after signing off American Steamship's MV St. Clair for the winter. November, an increase of 4.3 percent over the previous year. "With virtually every serviceable U.S.-flag laker in operation since early July, the fleet has been able to offset the early-season delays and now outdistances last year's end of November total by more than 3 million tons," he concluded. 5 �6 SEAFARERS LOG JANUARY 1995 Seafarers TB Testing Program Goes Into '95 In an effort to protect Seafarers from the reinvigorated strains of tuberculosis (TB) which are on the increase in the United States and in other parts of the world, the SIU and its medical plan last January instituted a one-year TB-testing program for its members. That trial period ended last month. The Seafarers Welfare Plan, which conducted the study, is starting to compile and analyze the data obtained through testing Seafarers for TB exposure over the past year. The medical director of the Seafarers Welfare Plan, Dr. Kenneth Miller, announced late last month that the plan will continue to test Seafarers in 1995 as last year's information is being analyzed. "Membership participation in the '94 program was excellent," Miller told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG. "We are extending the program into 1995. For those who did not have the opportunity to be tested last year, we are offering the same TB screening in '95 in order to further our data and come up with a much broader conclusion on the effects-if any-of tuberculosis on Seafarers," the medical director stated. TB Testing Continues The Seafarers program, which began January 1, 1994 and will continue this year, is designed to accumulate data in order to research the effects on Seafarers of the now more-widespread disease. For those Seafarers who did not participate in the 1994 proIf a Seafarer tested positive in pointed. "Our goal is to keep our to the public on issues of gram, a painless skin test will be 1994, he or she should have con- membership under our care so respiratory health, tuberculosis given at the time of a member's suited with a doctor to determine that if a problem with TB does germs are not likely to be transannual exam, which will identify if what treatment was necessary. arise, we can immediately ad- mitted through personal items he or she has been exposed to TB. In addition to the skin test, members will be asked to fill out a simple questionnaire at their respective clinics at the time of their annual physical (which ineludes such information as age, place of birth and places of travel, as well as family and personal history of tuberculosis). The only way to tell if a person has been exposed to the germs associated with the disease is through this skin test. A small needle is used to put a testing material, called tuberculin, under the skin. In 48-72 hours, the test on the forearm is examined to determine if there is a reaction to the disease. The test is positive if a bump the size of a pencil eraser or bigger appears on the arm where the tuberculin was placed. This means that the person may have been exposed and may require treatment to avoid getting the full disease at a later time. If a Seafarer tests positive, he or she should consult a doctor who can determine what, if any, treatment is necessary. It should be noted, however, that if a member is found to have active TB, then he or she will not be permitted to ship out until the infection is treated. (A positive test does not mean a Seafarer has the active TB disease.) Items checked by doctors include the size of the reaction to the skin test, age and medical history of the patient and if the individual is part of a high-risk group. The doctor will follow a specific set of guidelines established by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to figure out if a person needs to begin preventive medication. "If you tested positive in 1994, you will always test positive-so the skin test is never done again. However,thechestx-raythatyou receive as part of your annual physical will be examined carefully each year and checked to make sure the disease is still dormant," stated Miller. (If a member was found to have active TB in 1994, he or she should be under treatment for the disease by his or her personal physician.) If a Seafarer tested negative in 1994, he or she will once again receive the TB skin test to ensure that he or she has not been exposed at any time throughout the year. If the member tests positive on the TB test at his or her 1995 annual physical, he or she will be given a special questionnaire to fill out inquiring about his or her activities over the past year. Miller refers to this part of the program as "medical surveillance" in which the problem area, if indeed there is one, is pin- dress it. I want the membership to realize that if they tested negative once, that does not mean they will test negative forever. Anyone can be exposed to the tuberculosis germs," Miller stated. "It is very important for those who tested negative in the past to continue to participate in the program by getting tested again at the time of their '95 physical," he added. Disease on the Rise Inactiveformanyyearsinthe United States, tuberculosis is once again on the rise. The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), a federal health agency involved in the research and development of guidelines for treatment of infectious diseases, cites various reasons for the resurgence of TB, including the emergence of drug resistant strains of the organism, increased immigration to the U.S. of people from countries with a high occurrence of the disease and transmission among persons in crowded living environments. What Is Tuberculosis? TB is a disease that is spread by germs called tubercle bacilli that can float in the air. According to the American Lung Associati on, a private health organization that provides general information used by those individuals with the disease, such as clothing, bedding, toilet seats, showers, glasses, eating materials or any other items they have touched. The germs are spread if a person infected with TB of the lungs coughs or sneezes into the air. The TB bacteria are so tiny that they dry out and can float on air currents for long periods in an enclosed space. Most people who breathe in the bacteria do not become infected when exposed to TB. Of those who do, most do not develop the active disease, but the germs can lie dormant in the cells lining the lungs where the body may store them. The body's immune system traps the bacteria with special germ fighters. From this point on, a lifelong balance between the infecti.on and the human body's defense against the infection continues. An individual who has dormant TB bacteria in his or her lungs is not contagious. Only those with active TB who remain untreated are capable of infecting others. Miller notes that because Seafarers live in close quarters and deal with the same crewmembers on a daily basis for an extended period of time, the SIU medical department believes it should examine the possible effects of tuberculosis on those who sail the world's waterways. Like Son, Like Mother? Steward Assistant Follows in Sons' Footsteps It's not unusual for a son or daughter to follow in a parent's footsteps when it comes to choosing a career. But eyebrows were raised in the Scott family when Della Scott-motherofQMED Robert Scott and FOWT Billy Scottrecently decided to take the far less-common step of following her sons' career path by going to sea. Maritime Briefs II 11 !!=:=:=:=:==::::=::::=::::=::::=::::=::::=::::=::::=::::=::::=::::=======~ U.S. and Europe Agree to Accord On End of Shipbuilding Subsidies "I was surprised, but I encouraged her," said Billy, 25, who graduated from the Lundeberg School four years ago. "I had no doubt she could keep up." "I didn't expect it, but I think it's the best thing that ever happened to her," stated 26-year-old Robert, who also graduated from the Lundeberg School (in 1989). "She's always wanted to travel, and you can't ask for anything more than getting paid to do it." The Scotts live in Baltimore (Robert and Billy maintain their own, separate residences), so Della, 46, shipped out of the Baltimore SIU hall after she decided to go to sea. She made a brief trip as a steward assistant on the cable ship Global Link and was not at all disappointed with the experience. An agreement signed December 22 calls for the member countries of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) to reduce their shipbuilding subsidies and other forms of government aid to shipyards. Scheduled to begin in 1996, the pact was reached after more than five years of negotiation. The treaty must now be subjected to the ratification procedures of each signatory nation, which not only include European countries and the United States, but also Scandinavian nations, Japan and South Korea. In the U.S., the accord will be submitted to Congress, where some representatives are seeking to amend the agreement with more favorable terms for U.S. yards. Eight congressmen advised incoming House Speaker Newt Gingrich (R-Ga.) that unless the United States is allowed to extend aid to American shipyards, Scary Start making the transition from defense building to commercial construction, they "I was very scared at first, but would not support the pact. Those who urged such an arrangement were Herb Bateman (R-Va.),JackFields (R-Texas),Don Young(R-Alaska),JimSaxton the people treated me well and I (R-N.J.), Wayne Gilchrest (R-Md.), Tillie Fowler (R-Aa.), Jack Kingston enjoyed it. They were very patient (R-Ga.) and Curt Weldon (R-Pa.). and had a great sense of humor, which helped. And it certainly was worthwhile monetarily," Della recalled. Runaway Ship Abandoned in Mobile; Costs USCG More Than $280,000 Although she said she did not A 387-foot, Panamanian-flag ship, abandoned by its owners at the specifically feel a calling to sail, Mobile, Ala. docks after the U.S. Coast Guard delayed its sailing until vital Della's choice to join the SIU was repairs could be made, will end up costing the American taxpayer close to not based on a whim. "I wanted a $300,000. Rusting at the Alabama state docks for close to a year, the Antares change in my life, to do somehas cost the U.S. Coast Guard more than $280,000 in dock fees and repairs. The Coast Guard first crossed paths with the Antares in December 1993 thing different before I got older when the vessel had engine troubles off the coast of Aorida that required a and didn't have those options," tow. A few days later, because it was talcing on water, the 26-year-old ship she explained. "My sons enwas put under Coast Guard authority. The vessel was riddled with holes in couraged me after I brought it up, its holds and hatch covers, necessary safety equipment was nowhere to be and now I would like to continue found, electrical wiring was amiss and the engineroom was seeped in oil and shipping from Baltimore." water. Della also operates a residenThe vessel's owners, who were represented by a company in Houston, claim to have had nothing to do with the ship since March of last year. The tial cleaning service, and, in part ship's insurance company says it canceled the vessel's policy. The Coast because she has a number of elderly customers who rely on Guard is attempting to recoup its Antares-related costs in court. Della Scott and her son, Robert, arrive at Piney Point for last month's membership meeting. her, she plans to maintain that business. But when she is ready to sail again, she won't get any resistance from her family, including her husband, Robert. "I have no objections to future trips. She can take care of herself," said Robert Sr., a longtime member of the Service Employees International Union who maintains and repairs heating and air conditioning equipment at a Baltimore areahospital. "She made a lot of money on the first trip, but she worked hard for it," he added. 'Go With the Flow' Having conversed with her seafaring sons, Della felt prepared for the voyage aboard the Link (which went out for a cable repair operation in the North Atlantic). However, she noted that it initially was challenging to adjust the shipboard work schedule. "We worked a lot of hours, but once I got started and got into the routine, I was fine. I went with the flow," said Della. "I made some salads, cleaned a lot of dishes, swept and mopped the deck, stripped and waxed some decks and cleaned officers' cabins. There was plenty to do." In December, Della and Robert attended the membership meeting in Piney Point, Md. She would like to return there for upgrading courses, she said, and she need not look any further than Robert to see the benefits of the Lundeberg School. "My life was going nowhere until I filled out an application for Piney Point," said Robert. "It paid off. To be honest, our school is what has made me stick with this career. I admire the system and the opportunities." Della seems equally enthusiastic about the career opportunities within the SIU. "I was happy for Robert and Billy before I sailed, but now, I'm even more pleased with their choice," she said. "I think there's a really good future in the SIU." �SEAFARERS LOG JANUARY 1995 Paul Hall Center Again Expands Training Fleet The Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education last month expanded its fleet of training vessels by acquiring a 109-foot tugboat formerly used by the U.S. Navy. Built in 1960, the tug Marin is scheduled for use by upgraders who sail in the deck, engine and steward departments. Instructors at the Paul Hall Center's Lundeberg School indicated that the Marin will be used extensively in the new power plant maintenance course and in several classes specifically tailored for inland division upgraders. Seafarers who sail in the deck department will have opportunities to utilize the Marin's fully operational deck equipment, while engine department members will receive practical training on the vessel's main diesel and auxilliary engines. "We're also going to organize the galley so that some steward department upgraders cook aboard the boat," noted Chef Allen Sherwin, the Lundeberg School's culinary director. "Cooking for a tugboat crew is completely different than on deep sea vessels, so this represents a chance for students to gain a broader range of experience." The Marin is one of 74 YTB-class large harbor tugs currently or formerly in service with the Navy. At various times it was used for basic harbor operations and instruction in seamanship by Navy craftmasters. The boat also is the third vessel acquired by the Lundeberg School during the past year through the U.S. Defense Regional Material Office in Virginia, under terms of the Merchant Marine Act of 1936 (as amended in 1980). According to that law, "excess or surplus vessels, shipboard equipment and other marine equipment, owned by the United States, may be made available by gift, loan, sale, lease or charter to the federal and state maritime academies and to any nonprofit training institution which has been jointly approved by the (Maritime) Administration and the U.S. Coast Guard . ... " Earlier in '94, the school acquired an 80-foot former Navy training boat, as well as a state-of-the-art barge which had been used by the government for electromagnetic testing. The Marin is the newest addition to the Paul Hall Center's fleet of training vessels. Jacksonville SIU Hall to Host Refrig. Certification Course The Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education this year will continue offering its government-approved refrigeration technician certification course at SIU halls throughout the country and at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. The first class in '95 is scheduled for this month at the SIU hall in Jacksonville, Fla. (see schedule). Authorized by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the two-day course leads to testing and certification that is required of anyone who is involved in repair and servicing of refrigeration equipment and air conditioning systems. November 14, 1994 was the deadline for obtaining such certification, which is mandated by the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990. Seafarers who have not been certified (and whose jobs require the certification) are asked by the union to secure such certification as soon as possible. The Lundeberg School has been offering the refrigeration technician certification course since last July, both at Piney Point and at various SIU halls across the U.S. The class immediately is followed by a four-part, 100-questi on test, and there are corresponding certification types for each section. Among the Seafarers who check for $25, made payable to took the class last year, there was the Paul Hall Center, to: EPA virtually unanimous agreement Refrigeration Tech. Course, Paul that pre-course studying and Hall Center for Maritime Trainsharp concentration in the class- ing and Education, P.O. Box 75, room are vital to one's hopes of Piney Point, MD 20674, Attn: passing the exam. Month after J.C. Weigman. The book will be month, SIU members reiterated sent by first class mail. (Please the value both of reviewing the indicate an address where the coursetextbookinadvanceandof book should be sent.) The Lundeberg School also paying strict attention in the fastmoving class. will continue trying to make the Seafarers who want to buy the book available for purchase textbook "Refrigerants and the directly from the ports where the Environment" should indicate courses are scheduled. Check Explaining refrigerant handling safety procedures during a class sesthis to the port agent whom they with the individual port agents to sion is instructor Eric Malzkuhn. contact when signing up for the find out if the book is available in class. They then should send a advance at a particular hall. -------------------------. Norfolk and Philly Halls Conduct Radar Classes REFRIGERATION TECHNICIAN COURSE SCHEDULE DATE LOCATION TELEPHONE# January 9-13 February 13-17 March 13-17 April 10-14 June5-9 July 10-14 Jacksonville, Fla. Wilmington, Calif. Brooklyn, N.Y. Houston Honolulu New Orleans (904) 353-0987 (310) 549-4000 (718) 499-6600 (713) 659-5152 (808) 845-5222 (504) 529-7546 Boatmen Must Be Certified by Feb. 15 Note: Five-day blocks of time have been set aside for these courses to accommodate all who apply and those who want to retest. Each course, however, will take place during a two-day period within those dates. Check with the port agent in each of these union halls to determine the exact date of the class. , · 7J . /. ~ Seafarers and other merchant mariners took the refrigeration technician certification course in late November at the SIU hall in Algonac, Mich. Pictured from left are QMEOs Matthew Doherty, Kelly Mayo and Rodney Seaberg, along with Chief Engineers Wendell Titus and David Ward. The Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education this month will conduct its U.S. Coast Guard-approved, four-hour radar operation course at SIU halls in Norfolk, Va. and Philadelphia. The class in Norfolk will take place January 10, while the Philadelphia course is slated for January 12. To register, Seafarers should contact the port agent at the hall where they plan to attend the course. This class is intended only for Seafarers who already have a towboat operator's license but no radar endorsement. According to an interim final rule recently issued by the Coast Guard, such license-holding mariners who take the four-hour radar operation class-no later than February 15-will earn a radar certificate which is valid as an endorsement until the mariner's license expires or is renewed or upgraded. At that time, a mariner must seek a radar endorsement, according to the new regulation. The rule, which went into effect.on November 25, extends the endorsement requirement to licensed operators and all other pilots of radar-equipped, uninspected towboats which are 26 feet or more in length and which operate in U.S. waters. It stipulates that all mariners who test for original licenses, renewal licenses or upgraded licenses on or after February 15 must have a radar-observer endorsement. Again, an exception is made for licensed operators who do not yet hold a radar endorsement. Those individuals have until February 15 to earn the radar certificate which suffices as an endorsement (until the time of license expiration, renewal or upgrade). As with a towboat operator's license, a radar-observer endorsement expires after five years. But because the expiration dates of a mariner's license and his or her radar endorsement may differ, license renewal does not terminate the radar endorsement, and radar endorsements may be renewed at any time. The rule also establishes three types of radar endorsements and specifies which subject matter must be covered in radar observer courses. The categories of certification are Radar Observer/Unlimited, Radar Observer/Inland Waters and Radar Observer/Rivers. The latter two are new categories; in the past, only operators of vessels of at least 300 gross tons were required to hold a radar endorsement. 7 �.-.---------------- _ _________________ _____ ..... ..... 8 _,...,,_ ~---- --- ·- JANUARY1995 SEAFARERS LOG The judge's Nov. 23 decision to prohibit the charge for an FBI check of seamen and to remand the fee-setting process to the Coast Guard was made after the union presented its case to the court in oral arguments last February. Above, Seafarers follow Exec. VP Joseph Sacco into the federal district courthouse for the February hearing. Court: USCG Must Redo Z-Card, License Fees Continued from page 3 order until after that date. Thus, it is unclear exactly when the agency will begin refunding the $17 it charged seamen and boatmen for FBI background checks . The agency also has not indicated publicly if it has begun a recalculation of its licensing and documenting costs. The SIU currently is reviewing whether the union will appeal the portion of the judge's decision which ran counter to the argument that documenting and licensing of seamen only serves a public benefit. It is not known if the government intends to file with the U.S. Court of Appeals over the segments of Judge Oberdorfer' s order which require the agency to cease charging for the FBI background check and to recalculate the fees. United Union Effort The Sill's lawsuit, submitted to the court on April 15, 1993, was filed just before the Coast Guard's user fees went into effect April 19, 1993. In addition to the SIU, which includes the Sailors' Union of the Pacific and the Marine Firemen's Union, four additional maritime unions served as plaintiffs. They joined the Seafarers' suit in response to an SIU invitation to combine forces in a legal effort to nix the Coast Guard's user fees attached to merchant mariner documents, also known as zcards, and licenses. Along with the maritime unions-the SIU, District 4-Na- tional Maritime Union/MEBA, District No. 1-Marine Engineers Beneficial Association, America~ Maritime Offic~rs and International Organization of Masters, Mates and Pilots-five individual seamen served as plaintiffs. Caught in Budget Mania The user fees attached to zcards and licenses for seamen stem from the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1990. That year, in a hasty, last-minute attempt to cut the federal government's fiscal deficit, Congress created a series of Coast Guard user fees for various activities of the agency. To allow the Coast Guard to charge for issuing merchant mariner documents and licenses, Congress lifted the existing prohibition on charging for seamen's licenses. The 1990 budget bill was signed into law by then president George Bush. In 1991, the Coast Guard, acting on its new mandate resulting from the 1990 budget bill, issued proposed regulations instituting fees for all activities associated with issuing z-cards and licenses, including evaluations, examinations and issuance. The agency allowed for comments on its proposals, and the SIU submitted a series of vigorous protests to the fees. The union immediately filed a lawsuit that year, but it was not accepted by the court because the judge assigned to the case ruled it was not timely. He said the fees must be in effect before a lawsuit "In order for a delegation of the would be considered "ripe" for taxing power to be constitutional, judicial review. Congress needs only set standards with sufficient specificity for Lawsuit Reinstituted a court to be able to determine On March 19, 1993, the Coast whether the will of Congress has Guard issued its final notice of a been obeyed." rulemaking which established the The judge noted that the schedule of user fees and set April authority for the Coast Guard fees 19, 1993 as the date the agency is what is commonly known as would begin collecting monies the "general user fee statute." for its costs associated with Further, he said, "Not once has a mariner z-cards and licenses. The court invalidated the general user fees range from $35 for the is- fee statute as being an unconstitusuance of an entry-level merchant tional delegation of Congress's mariner document to some $250 taxing power." for the costs involved in securing Judge Sees Value to Mariner an upper level license. In the April 15, 1993 filing of The union also argued that the its lawsuit against the seaman's fees were arbitrary and capriwork tax, the SIU renewed its cious. The judge first considered legal challenge to the user fees. whether the Coast Guard could That brought about a hearing charge for its costs associated before Judge Oberdorfer on with issuing documents and February 24, 1994. With scores of licenses and, next, if the agency Seafarers in the audience, attor- correctly calculated the costs. On these matters, Judge Oberneys for the SIU and the govemm~nt presented oral arguments dorfer found that the agency was and answered Judge Oberdorfer' s within its rights to charge for a questions. After the hearing, the service, citing legal precedents court was silent on the matter that grant fee-setting authority to until November 23, 1994 when government entities if their serJudge Oberdorfer' s order was vices confer a private benefit to a particular individual or organizarendered. tion. Cites User Fee Prevalence He also found that "licensing Accompanying the judge's does not create an independent November 23 order was his public benefit" (his emphasis). memorandum outlining the "Public benefits are incidental to, reasoning he applied to the case. not independent of, the private Regarding the union's argument benefits if the public benefits" that it was unconstitutional for a come at no more of a cost than the federal agency to set a tax and that expense of creating the private the user fees, in effect, were a benefit, said Judge Oberdorfer, work tax, Judge Oberdorfer said, citing previous user fee court cases. The judge noted the SIU suit argued that the FBI background check required by the agency before mariners can obtain their documents and licenses cannot be deemed a private benefit to the seaman. Judge Oberdorfer agreed, stating, "The reason the agency conducts the FBI check is primarily maritime safety." The judge concluded that the FBI background check "does not confer a ·private benefit on plaintiffs; hence, the statute does not authorize the Coast Guard to charge a fee for it." Unreliable Calculation Finally, Judge Oberdorfer examined the fees themselves. "Since the fee charged may not exceed the agency's cost of providing the service, it is necessary to determine whether the Coast Guard rationally calculated its costs." The union demonstrated that, according to the Coast Guard's own data on which its expenses were based, it took nine times longer to process a document in Charleston than in Houston, thus exaggerating the agency's purported costs and rendering them unreliable. In his memorandum, the judge pointed out that the background material used by the Coast Guard to calculate its costs "indicates the data on which the Coast Guard relied is likely flawed." He remanded the case back to the agency for recalculation of its costs for documenting and licensing seamen. �JANUARY 1995 SEAFARERS LOG Fire on.the Choctaw LEFT: In Pusan, Korea, flames continue shooting up as high as the bridge. Memories of a 1963 Shipboard Blaze Pensioner James M. Smith joined the SIU in Baltimore in August 1939 right out of the Marine Corps as a corporal and as an expert of 50-caliber machine guns. He sailed during WWII, the Korean conflict and the early part of the Vietnam war and upgraded at the union's school in Brooklyn to third assistant engineer. In the September and October 1994 issues of the Seafarers LOG, Brother Smith recounted his voyage to Guadalcanal on the SS Del Brasil. The following article is about a fire on the SIU-crewed Choctaw which occurred in 1963. Smith sailed as chief electrician aboard that ship. "Shipboard fires still happen," Smith wrote to the LOG in a letter accompanying the ar- A Japanese firefighter gets knocked out by the smoke aboard the burning ship. again. Finally, our supply of C02 was exhausted and, though we kept a steady stream of water on the deck, the steel was beginning to buckle. We asked the U.S. airbase at Kunsan if they could assist us with some C02, but the answer was negative. The Choctaw had begun this voyage in San Pedro on March 26th, and so far the trip had been routine until April 25th in Kunsan. Most of the crewmembers were regulars on the ship, and she had been on the Far East run for so long she was sometimes called the "Choctaw Maru." Captain Knut Aalestad hailed from Stavanger, Norway, and was a very knowledgeable seaman, sometimes called "Papa-san" by the crew who respected and trusted him completely. After checking with the Navy in Pusan on the availability of some C02, the captain decided we would sail the ship around the coast to that port as we were making no progress where we were. Putting to sea in a burning ship was rather unusual, but we wanted to save her if we could. It was our jobs we were saving, and jobs were becoming scarce in the U.S. merchant marine. Besides, we liked the ship and we liked the run. On arrival in Pusan, we received six bottles ofCOi from the Navy which was all they could spare. After hooking the bottles up to our system, we went through the same drill three more times but with the same results-more water in the ship and flames shooting up as high as the bridge. Capt. Aalestad shook his head and said with his slight Norwegian accent, "Veil, boys, if she gets avay from us again, I'm afraid ve are gonna have to Aflame, the Choctaw puts to sea again in an effort to save the ship, this time from Kunsan to Pusan. beach her." We all looked at each other in shock. We couldn't imagine losing the ship after all our efforts. Pensioner Smith continues to enMeanwhile, the company joy a more relaxed way of sailing. agent in Japan suggested that we bring the ship over to the Kitaticle, "and training pays off. Kyushu area and let the During my seafaring career, I Japanese firefighters have a go helped fight three shipboard Once again, we took our at it. fires and went through the burning ship to sea and sailed firefighting course at Monacross the Tsushima Strait, mouth, N.J. two times." anchoring off the port of Shimonoseki. There is a tunnel he cJanging of the general upper 'tween deck where the under the strait that connects this Even after arrival in Shimonoseki, the Choctaw is still burning. cargo consisted of bales of cotalarm bells and the short port on the southern tip of the blasts of the ship's whistle ton and five-gallon cans of main island of Honshu with the shattered the calm of the "land chemicals, while the lower hold As soon as the fire was under port of Moji on the island of of the morning calm" as Korea contained bulk wheat. The 35control, we moved the ship to Kyushu. is known throughout East Asia. foot fall into the grain should The firefighting brigade from the dock where there was a long Aboard the Choctaw, a Water- have been survivable. The chief the Kyushu Coal Miners As- line of dump trucks waiting. man Line C2-type cargo ship mate put on an OBA (oxygen sociation agreed to tackle the Hooking each bale of cotton tied up at a dock in the port of breathing apparatus) and went job. These men are trained to with large tongs, they were Kunsan, Korea, the crew of SIU down the ladder past the 'tween fight fires hundreds of feet under hoisted out to the trucks, each Seafarers scrambled to their sta- deck which was now blazing ground and have the necessary bale becoming a ball of fire as tions and ran out the hoses. I fiercely and searched by feel for equipment such as asbestos suits soon as it was pulled from the grabbed my tool kit and headed the seaman without success. and OB As, but none of them had hold. Once in the steel dump for the engineroom to make sure Finally, with his oxygen supply truck, they were sprayed by two ever been on a cargo ship. there was power to the fire exhausted, he just made it to the In order to get them oriented, men with fire extinguishers, pumps-but not before taking a top of the ladder and was pulled we took them down into the then driven out of town and quick look at the column of thick onto the deck by the bosun and number 4 hold which is almost dumped in a rice paddy. We smoke pouring from the open two able seamen. identical to the number 2, and learned later that they salvaged Nobody could survive in that hatch of the number 2 hold. showed them the layout and over 95 percent of the cotton in One of the worst nightmares heat and smoke more than a few where the main part of the fire this manner. The commander of of seafarers is a fire at sea, but minutes. Already, more than 40 was burning. They then made all the fire brigade said he had used since we were in port with help minutes had passed, and the their preparations, including a enough foam to cover two available, we were not worried flames were shooting up past the small Buddhist shrine set up in a square city blocks. about getting the fire under con- level of the deck. The captain We gave the Japanese fire tent on deck. Since we already trol. However, as is often the reluctantly gave the order to had one dead and several in- brigade men our heartfelt thanks case, things started to go wrong finish closing the hatch so that jured, they knew their lives were and shook hands all around immediately. The first thing in the fire would be deprived of before getting under way for the at stake. fighting a fire is to close off its oxygen and we could then use When they were all ready to Kawasaki shipyard in Tokyo air supply. We shut down the the ship's C02 system to extingo, the bosun and deck gang Bay where they repaired all the ventilation blowers and closed guish it. swung the hatch covers clear. fire damage in less than five During the remainder of that the dampers while the bosun and The flames and smoke got a days. the deck gang swung the heavy day, we fought the fire with One of the wipers on the breath of air and immediately steel hatch covers in place. Then water and C02, but every time came pouring out of the hold Choctaw was Hiroshi Shiba, an a seaman working in the thick we thought we had it under conAmerican of Japanese decent with a whoosh. smoke either slipped or was trol and opened the hatch, the Those Japanese firefighters who, as a teenager, had spent the bumped by a hatch cover and flames would soon be. shooting did not hesitate but went one war years in an American conhalf-way up the mast, and we plunged into the open hold. after another down the ladder centration camp in the Arizona The fire was burning in the would have to secure the hatch and disappeared into the flames, desert. I had been studying dragging their foam equipment Japanese for several years and with them. After several took every opportunity to pracminutes, the flames began to tice conversation. Shiba and I diminish, then suddenly were were talking to one of the snuffed out completely. The shipyard workers. He said, smoke continued to be a hazard "Why don't you people scrap to the firefighters on deck who this old junk; we will build you were without protection. They a new one in two months." Shiba would get one breath of that looked at him and said quietly, toxic smoke and fall uncon- "Yeah, but it helped to win the scious to the deck. They would war." (Note: the OS who fell into be rushed into the ship's hospital which was manned by a doctor the hold had climbed up to the and two nurses, given oxygen lower 'tween deck before being .) until they were again conscious, overcome by smoke. His body Overcome by smoke and fumes, a Choctaw crew- Seafarers man their stations and run out the then sent directly back into the was recovered after the fire was member is attended to by his shipmates. hoses to fight the fire in the number 2 hold. extinguished in Japan.) fight. T 9 �JANUARY 1995 SEAFARERS LOG Fire on the Choctaw LEFT: In Pusan, Korea, flames continue shooting up as high as the bridge. Memories of a 1963 Shipboard Blaze Pensioner James M. Smith joined the SIU in Baltimore in August 1939 right out of the Marine Corps as a corporal and as an expert of 50-caliber machine guns. He sailed during WWII, the Korean conflict and the early part of the Vietnam war and upgraded at the union's school in Brooklyn to third assistant engineer. In the September and October 1994 issues of the Seafarers LOG, Brother Smith recounted his voyage to Guadalcanal on the SS Del Brasil. The following article is about a fire on the SIU-crewed Choctaw which occurred in 1963. Smith sailed as chief electrician aboard that ship. "Shipboard fires still happen," Smith wrote to the LOG in a letter accompanying the ar- A Japanese firefighter gets knocked out by the smoke aboard the burning ship. beach her." We all looked at each other in shock. We couldn't imagine losing the ship after all our efforts. Pensioner Smith continues to enMeanwhile, the company joy a more relaxed way of sailing. agent in Japan suggested that we bring the ship over to the Kitaticle, "and training pays off Ky u sh u area and let the During my seafaring career, I Japanese firefighters have a go helped fight three shipboard at it. Once again, we took our fires and went through the burning ship to sea and sailed firefighting course at Monacross the Tsushima Strait, mouth, N.J. two times." anchoring off the port of Shimonoseki. There is a tunnel he clanging of the general upper 'tween deck where the under the strait that connects this Even after arrival in Shimonoseki, the Choctaw is still burning. alarm bells and the short cargo consisted of bales of cotport on the southern tip of the blasts of the ship's whistle ton and five-gallon cans of main island of Honshu with the shattered the calm of the "land chemicals, while the lower hold As soon as the fire was under port of Moji on the island of of the morning calm" as Korea contained bulk wheat. The 35control, we moved the ship to Kyushu. is known throughout East Asia. foot fall into the grain should The firefighting brigade from the dock where there was a long Aboard the Choctaw, a Water- have been survivable. The chief the Kyushu Coal Miners As- line of dump trucks waiting. man Line C2-type cargo ship mate put on an OBA (oxygen sociation agreed to tackle the Hooking each bale of cotton tied up at a dock in the port of breathing apparatus) and went job. These men are trained to with large tongs, they were Kunsan, Korea, the crew of SIU down the ladder past the 'tween fight fires hundreds of feet under hoisted out to the trucks, each Seafarers scrambled to their sta- deck which was now blazing ground and have the necessary bale becoming a ball of fire as tions and ran out the hoses. I fiercely and searched by feel for equipment such as asbestos suits soon as it was pulled from the grabbed my tool kit and headed the seaman without success. and OBAs, but none of them had hold. Once in the steel dump for the engineroom to make sure Finally, with his oxygen supply truck, they were sprayed by two ever been on a cargo ship. there was power to the fire exhausted, he just made it to the In order to get them oriented, men with fire extinguishers, pumps-but not before taking a top of the ladder and was pulled we took them down into the then driven out of town and quick look at the column of thick onto the deck by the bosun and number 4 hold which is almost dumped in a rice paddy. We smoke pouring from the open two able seamen. identical to the number 2, and learned later that they salvaged Nobody could survive in that hatch of the number 2 hold. showed them the layout and over 95 percent of the cotton in One of the worst nightmares heat and smoke more than a few where the main part of the fire this manner. The commander of of seafarers is a fire at sea, but minutes. Already, more than 40 was burning. They then made all the fire brigade said he had used since we were in port with help minutes had passed, and the their preparations, including a enough foam to cover two available, we were not worried flames were shooting up past the small Buddhist shrine set up in a square city blocks. about getting the fire under con- level of the deck. The captain We gave the Japanese fire tent on deck. Since we already trol. However, as is often the reluctantly gave the order to had one dead and several in- brigade men our heartfelt thanks case, things started to go wrong finish closing the hatch so that jured, they knew their lives were and shook hands all around immediately. The first thing in the fire would be deprived of before getting under way for the at stake. fighting a fire is to close off its oxygen and we could then use When they were all ready to Kawasaki shipyard in Tokyo air supply. We shut down the the ship's C02 system to extingo, the bosun and deck gang Bay where they repaired all the ventilation blowers and closed guish it. swung the hatch covers clear. fire damage in less than five During the remainder of that the dampers while the bosun and The flames and smoke got a days. the deck gang swung the heavy day, we fought the fire with One of the wipers on the breath of air and immediately steel hatch covers in place. Then water and C02, but every time came pouring out of the hold Choctaw was Hiroshi Shiba, an a seaman working in the thick we thought we had it under conAmerican of Japanese decent with a whoosh. smoke either slipped or was trol and opened the hatch, the Those Japanese firefighters who, as a teenager, had spent the bumped by a hatch cover and flames would soon be. shooting did not hesitate but went one war years in an American conhalf-way up the mast, and we plunged into the open hold. after another down the ladder centration camp in the Arizona The fire was burning in the would have to secure the hatch and disappeared into the flames, desert. I had been studying dragging their foam equipment Japanese for several years and with them. After several took every opportunity to pracminutes, the flames began to tice conversation. Shiba and I diminish, then suddenly were were talking to one of the snuffed out completely. The shipyard workers. He said, smoke continued to be a hazard "Why don't you people scrap to the firefighters on deck who this old junk; we will build you were without protection. They a new one in two months." Shiba would get one breath of that looked at him and said quietly, toxic smoke and fall uncon- "Yeah, but it helped to win the scious to the deck. They would war." (Note: the OS who fell into be rushed into the ship's hospital which was manned by a doctor the hold had climbed up to the and two nurses, given oxygen lower 'tween deck before being .> until they were again conscious, overcome by smoke. His body Overcome by smoke and fumes, a Choctaw crew- Seafarers man their stations and run out the then sent directly back into the was recovered after the fire was member is attended to by his shipmates. hoses to fight the fire in the number 2 hold. extinguished in Japan.) fight. T again. Finally, our supply of C02 was exhausted and, though we kept a steady stream of water on the deck, the steel was beginning to buckle. We asked the U.S. airbase at Kunsan if they could assist us with some C02, but the answer was negative. The Choctaw had begun this voyage in San Pedro on March 26th, and so far the trip had been routine until April 25th in Kunsan. Most of the crewmembers were regulars on the ship, and she had been on the Far East run for so long she was sometimes called the "Choctaw Maru. " Captain Knut Aalestad hailed from Stavanger, Norway, and was a very knowledgeable seaman, sometimes called "Papa-san" by the crew who respected and trusted him completely. After checking with the Navy in Pusan on the availability of some C02, the captain decided we would sail the ship around the coast to that port as we were making no progress where we were. Putting to sea in a burning ship was rather unusual, but we wanted to save her if we could. It was our jobs we were saving, and jobs were becoming scarce in the U.S. merchant marine. Besides, we liked the ship and we liked the run. On arrival in Pusan, we received six bottles ofCOi from the Navy which was all they could spare. After hooking the bottles up to our system, we went through the same drill three more times but with the same results-more water in the ship and flames shooting up as high as the bridge. Capt. Aalestad shook his head and said with his slight Norwegian accent, "Veil, boys, if she gets avay from us again, I'm afraid ve are gonna have to Aflame, the Choctaw puts to sea again in an effort to save the ship, this time from Kunsan to Pusan. 9 �JANUARY 1995 SEAFARERS LOG 6em State Crew Flawlessly Executes First RRF Boxed Ammo Drill Under typhoon conditions, Seafarers aboard the Gem State successfully completed Operation Turbo CADS (Containerized Ammunition Distribution System), marking the first time a Ready Reserve Force (RRF) ship has been activated for the specific mission of carrying ammunition by container in a routine mission to replenish supplies. In a letter to the Seafarers LOG, accompanied by the photos on this page, Chief Steward Peter Schmitt detailed the responsibilities of the voyage and the ship's crewmembers. "This was the largest and most comprehensive movement of containerized ammunition in history ," the chief steward explained. "All branches of the U.S. Armed Forces took part, with Navy sailors, Marines and Army soldiers acting as longshoremen and truck drivers as well as signalmen and tally takers. Seafarers operated the cranes and did all of the actual loading." The Gem State is equipped with its own cranes and can discharge the containers and other heavy military equipment at undeveloped or war-damaged ports thus efficiently moving large amounts of ammunition at one time. Operation Begins The Gem State, usualJy docked in reduced operating status at Hunters Point Naval Shipyard in San Francisco. was activated by the Maritime Administration (MarAd) on August 15 for participation in the military operation. Soon after, Seafarers boarded the vessel and prepared it for the exercise that spanned the Pacific. "There was a lot to be done by the crewmembers before we could set sail. The ship had been dockside for some time and had to be made liveable again," recalled Bosun Sonny Wilson. Wilson noted that the engine department had to make sure the cranes were operating properly while the deck department stayed busy chipping and painting the interior and exterior of the ship. On August 31, the Gem State sailedfortheNaval Weapons Station in Concord, Calif. where 126 containers were loaded by Seafarers operating the RRF ship's massive cranes. The Gem State then sailed on to another naval ordinance facility at Indian Island, Wash. where 300 additional containers were brought on board. Once the ship's cargo holds were completely full of the containerized ammunition, the vessel set sail for Apra, Guam, the Gem State's first port of call. Turbulent Conditions Schmitt reported that the Gem State encountered a typhoon in Guam and Okinawa but through the efforts of the crew, the military exercise was a success, despite the discouraging conditions. "In the midst of a driving rain, with practically gale force winds and a powerful surge, the ABs driving the cranes did a superb job in lifting the boxes to the dock and in three days the offload was completed." Wilson echoed the chief steward's statements on the superior job done by the Seafarers who maneuvered the cranes. "It was very intense operating the cranes in such adverse conditions. The ship was being tossed around in the dangerous waters while the containers were swinging and tossing about. The offloading of the containers by the cranes under such circumstances was dangerous but the crew prevailed," said the bosun. Kudos for all Crewmembers "It was a very long trip with intense operations but everyone worked together to make the trip pleasant," said Wilson. "I must say that the food served by the galley gang was better than I have ever had in the 30 years that I have been sailing with the SIU," the bosun added. "The engine department kept the cranes in excellent working order. We had a few minor problems when we first got underway but that was because the ship had not operated in a while. They really did a suburb job," he said. "The deck department went above and beyond the call of duty to get the job done and help the military exercise continue despite some pretty awful conditions," Wilson noted. "As a whole this crew was excellent and it was a fine trip," the bosun concluded. Old Munitions Come Home Once the last of the containerized ammunition was unloaded in Hiro, Japan, the Gem State sailed to Pusan, Korea for an oil change and to top off the fuel tanks. Before sailing home, the SIUcrewed vessel made one last visit to Okinawa and Guam to load containers of obsolete ammuni- 11 The Gem State, dock- / ed at port in Guam, unloads the first of the containerized ammunition during Operation Turbo CADS. ti on destined for destruction at the weapons station in Concord. The Gem State returned to the United States by mid-December and was turned back over to MarAd and placed into inactive status. Extra Special Moments While Seafarers' hard work and dedication contributed to the overall success of Operation Turbo CADS, they also had time to take in some sites, scenery and enjoy a special Thanksgiving together aboard the Gem State. When the vessel left Indian Island for the trip over to Guam, on September 18 it passed through the Straits of Juan de Fuca between Vancouver Island, Canada and Washington. "Most of us had never been through the Straits of Juan de Fuca and we found it to be a beautiful voyage," the chief steward wrote. And while in Okinawa, Gem State crewmemhers dedicated an old sweep oar from the vessel's lifeboatthathad been refinished, painted and signed by each crewmember to a seamen's charity. In Japan, many crewmembers had the opportunity to visit the city of Hiroshima. Schmitt recalled, "Weallagreedthatvisiting the Peace Memorial Park and remembering the atom bomb blast on that city, was a sobering experience." The Gem State was half way between Guam and the United States on Thanksgiving Day. The steward department, headed by Schmitt, includes Chief Cook Abdulalah Mohamed, SAs QMED Beckett "Sonny" Young keeps the cranes working properly. An ~xpert in s~ip engine repair, QME~ W.R. "r:tutch" Joan Ann "Joanesey" Riley, Hutc~mson signed Donald Benjamin and Joe on with the vessel. Munoz, Room Steward Joyce O'Donnell and Officer's messman Donald Irvine. They prepared a special Thanksgiving feast for crewmembers that ineluded the traditional turkey and ham dinner with all the fixings as well as steak and lobster. Schmitt, who graduated from the Lundeberg School's steward recertification program in 1993, stated, "On one hand, I don't QMED Don Wroten think that we did anything spe- enjoys engineroom cial. To me it was a normal work aboard the Thanksgiving dinner, but the Gem State. crew really praised us and were so impressed with what we prepared. But thinking back, I did everything that I could to make the holiday special for the crew," recalled Schmitt. "It is never fun to be at sea during the holidays," he said. One of a Fleet The Gem State, under contract to International Marine Carriers (IMC), is part of the Military Sealift Command's RRF. The RRF primarily consists of rollon/roll-off vessels, container , ships, bulkers, tankers, freighters and military support ships which are tied up in various ports around the country on the Atlantic, Pacific and Gulf coasts. The ships are activated to support military operations in times of need. Formerly the President Monroe, an American President Lines vessel, the Gem State was transferred to MarAd ownership in 1985. The ship was converted to Chief Steward Peter Schmitt (left) and SA Donald Benjamin begin an auxiliary crane ship and made preparations for a special Thanksgiving Day feast aboard ship. part of the RRF for the MSC. OS Jim Toranto learns more about crane operations during the exercise. AB Paul Matsos utilizes his experience from other RRF ships. Chief Cook Abdulalah Mohamed is known as "Mr. Gourmet." Working with containerized weapons is a first for AB Monte Smith. Operation Turbo CADS is Joan Ann "Joanesey" Riley's first military exercise. Before the military exercise began, OS Tony Norman helped prepare the DEU Mohamed Abobaker has many responsibilities aboard the auxiliary crane ship. Gem State. Bosun Sonny Wilson pajnts the stack of the Gem State following the ship's activation by MarAd for participation in Operation Turbo CADS. �12 JANUARY 1995 SEAFARERS LOG , :di The Cape Inscription was one of eight RRF ships crewed by Seafarers in support of U.S. military operations in Haiti. . b As always, the SIU in 1994 remained extremely active on Capitol Hill. Above: SIU VP Joseph Sacco addresses a congressional committee. SIU President Michael Sacco (center) joined in a widespread commemoration of the U.S. merchant marine's vital role and many sacrifices during World War II. ' , I ~ The SIU hall in New York moved to a new location in Brooklyn. The old shipping board was brought from the old hall to the new facility. The Paul Hall Center continued to provide practical and classroom training for SIU members. The Fidelio re-flagged under the U.S. flag and began operating with an SIU crew. ISRA EU SEA OFFICER$ llt410 N ON STRIKE ~·.:-.,.._ - From coast to coast, Seafarers supported fellow mariners and other trade unionists. All of the RAF ships activated for operations in Haiti were delivered ahead of schedule, including the SIU-crewed Cape Texas (above). crewed Empire State carried home the last contingent of U. S. s old iers to serve in Somalia, marking the end of U.S. armed forces support for the Uni ted Nation s' relief operation there. Other Seafarers-crewed vessels , including the American Kestrel and the Gem SUPPORTING State, were praised by the U.S. U.S. TROOPS Navy for their execution of Seafarers crewed eight of operations in support of the the 14 Ready Reserve Force Navy's Military Sealift Com(RRF) ships that were ac- mand. tivated to support U.S. armed ENVIRONMENTAL forces in Haiti. SIU members EMERGENCIES helped transport troops and materiel to the impoverished Seafarers played a key role island nation, where America in a major oil spill containment took the lead in restoring and recovery operation after power to Haiti's democratical- the barge Morris J. Bennan ly elected president, Jean broke loose from its line to the Bertrand Aristide. tugboat Emily S. on January 7 Seafarers were praised by and drifted onto a coral reef the Maritime Administration near San Juan's beaches. for their quick and profesThe Berman lost more than sional response, with MarAd 650,000 gallons of heavy numnoting that all of the RRF ships ber 6 bunker oil, and SIU were delivered ahead of members working for Crowley schedule. Maritime were among the first Nearly four years after the to respond to the spill. In all, start of Operation Desert more than 200 Seafarers strung Shield, SIU crews were back in containment booms, crewed Kuwait for Operation lifeboats and skimmers and Southern Watch. As part of the performed other work to miniU.S.'s response to a buildup of mize the damage. elite Iraqi troops near Kuwait, More recently, SIU memSeafarers crewed 11 of the bers aboard the Texas afloat prepositioning force Responder and Gulf Coast ships which were called into Responder were involved in action. They helped deliver cleanup operations in the troops, ammunition and other Houston area after a major materiel to the Persian Gulf, pipeline explosion spilled an but the Iraqis quickly backed estimated 200,000 gallons of off. gasoline, diesel fuel and crude Meanwhile, the SIU- oil into the San Jacinto River. 1994: Seafarers Again Answered Nation's Call While U.S. military activities and environmental emergencies were splashed across the headlines in 1994, SIU ships and Seafarers were at work behind the scenes. SIU-crewed vessels provided key support to U.S. armed forces in Haiti and the Persian Gulf. Seafarers also played vital roles in major oilspill cleanup operations in Puerto Rico and Houston. It was a year in which legislation that would have earned security for the U.S.-flag merchant fleet barely fell short of enactment. Although the bill did not become law, Seafarers were a driving force in securing its passage in the House of Representatives and in garnering support from many senators and from President Clinton. Within the SIU, advances were made in behalf of the membership through contract gains, the addition of three ships, organizing new members and scoring a legal victory that helped secure a larger fish quota for fishermen. Seafarers also continued to upgrade their skills to ensure their status as the best-trained merchant mariners in the world. To that end, the union's school-the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, jointly operated by the SIU and SIU-contracted companies-introduced a number of new, modem vocational upgrading courses and made significant additions to its fleet of hands-on training vessels. Finally, hundreds of Seafarers demonstrated that the "Brotherhood of the Sea" is more than the union's slogan-itis'a way of life. SIU members took part in rescues all over the world and demonstrated solidarity with fellow seamen and other trade unionists. SIU retirees also served as a reminder that, although they no longer set out to sea, they remain a contributing force within the union. Retired Seafarers helped secure congressional support for a new maritime program, and they also took their well-earned place in the spotlight when the Liberty ship Jeremiah O'Brien sailed to Normandy for the 50th anniversary of D-Day. The following is a review of some of the highlights and other significant occurrences of the past year. Throughout the country, Seafarers had an opportunity to take t Center's EPA-approved refrigeration technician certification cou FIGHTING TO SA VE THE U.S.-FLAG FLEET In March, Transportation Secretary Federico Pefia unveiled the funding mechanism for a maritime revitalization bill which was introduced in the House. The AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department announced its backing of the legislation, which would allocate, during a 10-year period, $1 billion raised through a tonnage duty to ensure a U.S.-flag liner capability in foreign commerce and provide aid to American shipyards. Subsequently, a major grassroots campaign by Seafarers and their families helped garner support for maritime revitalization in Congress and in the administration. But while a majority of Congress' officials backed the legislation, it did not pass the Senate, as a result of a blocking move by farm-state senators. In a related development, the Maritime Administration conditionally approved a request by American President Lines (APL) to operate six new vessels under foreign flags. When it applied for a waiver of the law, which prohibits subsidized U.S. shipping companies from operating foreign-flag ships in essential U.S.-flag service routes, APL cited the lack of a new maritime program. The SIU and other unions opposed the waiver, which stipulates that APL must apply to include the six ships in any �SEAFARERS LOS JANUARY 1995 f Three new boats, including this former Navy craft, were added to the Paul Hall Center's fleet of training vessels. ~ I ~~~ 13 Seafarers helped execute a number of dramatic rescues. Above: The SIU-crewed Baldomero Lopez aids stranded islanders in the Pacific. A lawsuit filed by the SIU and fishermen's groups resulted in a significant increase in the flounder quota for 1994. / .UfJl!A.Wr'a .... Severe icing in early '94 affected Seafarers on the Great Lakes and inland waterways. Vocational upgrading courses at the Paul Hall Center were revised to include even more hands-on training. \.. Throughout the year, the SIU secured advances for SIU members and their families actively supported pro-maritime can- its members through new collective bargaining agreements. didates in the state and local elections of November. new subsidy program that becomes law in 1995. Elsewhere, the House enacted a package of maritime measures that included SIUsupported provisions for towing safety and regulatory reform. Although the Senate failed to act on the inland safety bill, the House strongly backed the measure, and all of its elements will be introduced again in the 104th Congress. In other legislative news, SIU fishermen from the port of New Bedford, Mass. conducted a month-long series of meetings and protests which culminated in the release in late March of $30 million in economic aid for fishermen by the U.S. Commerce Department. BOA TMEN JOIN SIU RANKS Co.' s newest and most elaborate paddlewheel steamboat, the American Queen, which is slated to begin operating this year. In March, crewmembers of a longtime non-union Gulf tugboat company voted to join the SIU. The vote by boatmen who are employed by E.N. Bisso Co. set of a series of procedural delays by the company, which operates a fleet of 15 boats. Finally, boatmen at the marine ocean engineering department of Martin Marietta Services, Inc. in San Juan, P.R. voted to join the Seafarers. STRIVING FOR IMPROVEMENT Despite unfair competition from runaway registries, the lack of a new maritime program and other obstacles, the SIU secured advances for its members through new collective bargaining agreements. Wage increases and improved health care benefits were among the ga.in~ made for Seafarer~ who s~l. I~ the deep sea and mland d1vmons. . Also, a lawsmt filed by the SIU and by fishermen's groups ~esulted in a 16 percent increase mthe.flounde~quo~for 1994marking a maJor wm for fishermen. ----------Early in the year, Seafarers crewed the USNS Able, a new Small W aterplane Area Twin Hull (SWATH) design vessel which is owned by the Military Sealift Command and operated by U.S. Marine Management. Another new, SIU-crewed ship, the MV Sulphur Enterprise (operated by Sulphur Carriers, Inc.), began operating in the sulfur trade between Tampa and ports in Louisiana. SIU members also crewed BROTHERHOOD the car carrier Fidelio after it OF THE SEA re-flagged under the U.S. flag. The vessel is operated by InterIn terms of numbers, the bignational Marine Carriers. gest rescue of the year took Construction continued on place when Seafarers aboard the Delta Queen Steamboat the MV Advantage aided 353 Yemeni men, women and children who were fleeing their war-ravaged country. Exhausted and ravenous, the Yemenis were taken from two boats which were in danger of sinking. They were fed, cleaned and brought to safety in Oman, where a U.N. camp was set up. But no matter the location or the number of people who needed help, SIU members responded: •Seafarers on theAltonBelle 11 saved the life of a local resident who apparently was about to- drown in the Mississippi River. • The SIU-crewed MV Patriot assisted five Peruvian fishermen whose boat had been drifting for five days without engine power more than 100 miles off the coast of Peru in the Pacific Ocean. • In the Gulf of Mexico, Seafarers aboard the OM/ Hudson saved 12 Cuban refugees who had been at sea for nearly two weeks and who had been without food or water for days. • Members of the union's Government Services Division aboard the USNS Mars helped rescue 1O Egyptians off the coast of Oman who had been drifting for nine days in a lifeboat after their small cargo ship sank in the North Arabian Sea. • The USNS Naragansett, also crewed by SIU Government Services Division members, saved four men from Zanzibar who were drifting on a small, partially submerged boat. They had been adrift for More than 200 Seafarers quickly and efficiently responded to a major oil spill in Puerto Rico. 10 days, and their water and food supply had been exhausted. •SeafarersontheBaldomero Lopez aided 40 people whose small island nation in the Pacific was devastated by Typhoon Zelda. All were taken to safety. In addition to the rescues, Seafarers took part in other humanitarian activities. The crew of the Sugar Islander delivered 20,000 metric tons of com to the destitute country of Angola, on Africa's west coast. And crewmembers from the Nuevo San Juan donated respiratory units and toys for children who are staying at the intensive care unit of the Hospital Pediactrico Central in San Juan. regulations requiring that anyone who handles refrigerants must be certified to do so, the school developed an Environmental Protection Agency-approved course and conducted a port-to-port schedule for teaching it so that Seafarers could obtain the certification. The school also added an eight-hour hazardous materials (hazmat) recertification course, in accordance with new Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations. In planning for 1995, the Lundeberg School announced the addition of a number. of new courses and expansion of several existi~g classes, each with extra emphasis on handson training. PAUL HALL CENTER PROVIDES FIRST-RA TE TRAINING SEAFARERS SHOW SOLIDARITY The Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education and its Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship continued offering a comprehensive selection of vocational upgrading classes to SIU members who sail in the deck, engine and steward departments. Many courses were enhanced by the Lundeberg School's acquisition of two new training vessels, including the Empress II, a state-of-the-art barge formerly used by the government for electromagnetic testing. In response to new federal Over the years, the SIU has earned a reputation as a group that supports fellow trade unionists in times of struggle, and that tradition was maintained in 1994. Literally from coast to coast, SIU members marched, demonstrated and provided other support for fel1ow mariners and trade unionists from the U.S. and other nations. Members of the American Radio Association, the Teamsters, the Israeli Sea Officers Union and Nigerian oil workers were among those who enjoyed the support of SIU members throughout the country. _. -. �14 SEAFARERS LOG JANUARY1995 Celebrating Thanksgiving, Brown Style • • • The weather was a little warmer than one might expect in late November as Thanksgiving Day was celebrated barbecue-style on deck aboard the Charles L. Brown. But the unusual holiday style did not mean there was not plenty of turkey to go around. Stationed at the Crown Bay Marina in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, the Charles L. Brown is one of five AT&T cableships in position around the country to lay cable lines. The photos of the cable ship's holiday banquet/barbecue were provided by Chief Steward Brenda Kamiya. Dominating the Sealift Artarctic's meal is the "big bird." This one was prepared by the ship's galley staff: Chief Steward Ernest Dumont, Chief Cook Rolando Lopez and Steward Assistant Eric Airline . . . . And on the SL Antarctic On Thanksgiving Day, three hundred miles south of New Orleans, the Sealift Antarctic pursued her mission-delivering fuel for the military. But on board, crewmembers took time to partake in the culinary delights produced by the The Brown's bosun, Francisco Sousa, goes back for seconds Chief Cook Robin L. Nay cargalley gang for the special occasion. while Chief Steward Brenda Kamiya supervises the dinner. ves the turkey on the Brown. Captured on film by the radio/electronics officer, T.T. O'Brien, the Thanksgiving fare aboard the sealift tanker, which is operated by International Marine Carriers, was topped off with a traditional turkey and completed with homemade pies and other desserts. ) /1 Holiday appetizers and desserts are displayed side-by-side on the Sealift Antarctic. Midway through his meal, AB Juan Rochez poses for Radio Officer O'Brien's camera. Crewmembers, families and friends help themselves to the barbecue feast onboard the cable ship. AB Adam S. Talucci, on the tanker's AB Adam S. Talucci, OS Ronald Rizzuto and Bosun Ray Shinpoch feast on bridge, awaits his time off to share in the Thanksgiving treats. Thanksgiving goodies aboard the Sealift Antarctic. Enjoying their Thanksgiving Day meals are AB Nick Moramarco (left) and OS Sirio Centino. With plates laden with the holiday meal's main course, AntarcticOS Todd Stringer, Wiper Brad Williams and Pumpmen William Day and B. Maglinao dig in with gusto. There is plenty of work associated with the preparation and cleanup of a holiday meal, as SA Eric Airline can attest to on the Antarctic. Antarctic Chief Cook Rolando Lopez (left) and Captain Ernest Richardson survey the buffet tables that are heaped with an array of holiday treats. �SEAFARERS LOG JANUARY 1995 Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea NOVEMBER 16 - DECEMBER 15, 1994 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Trip Reliefs February &March 1995 Membership Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, Inland Waters **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C DECK DEPARTMENT Port 10 50 38 4 15 22 22 26 5 New York 28 I 10 6 3 7 3 2 0 1 Philadelphia 9 2 12 13 6 0 1 5 9 7 Baltimore 6 27 22 31 3 5 7 14 9 21 16 Norfolk 5 26 15 0 0 10 2 7 18 13 Mobile 47 5 23 4 1 24 12 1 12 24 New Orleans 41 14 45 12 21 8 18 27 3 Jacksonville 33 12 43 40 12 1 14 23 7 10 San Francisco 25 15 23 39 6 5 12 12 7 Wilmington 20 11 10 34 46 2 20 23 19 21 16 9 Seattle 5 5 14 2 1 7 3 2 Puerto Rico 11 5 13 29 6 7 5 6 20 18 7 10 Honolulu 44 19 38 14 24 7 17 24 11 Houston 19 4 0 1 0 1 0 1 l St. Louis 1 0 0 8 0 2 4 1 0 7 0 0 Piney Point 0 0 1 0 0 I 0 1 0 1 Algonac 411 138 343 104 44 194 148 211 240 81 Totals ENGINE DEPARTMENT Port 43 5 11 37 1 7 13 3 18 18 New York 0 1 5 1 0 2 1 1 2 I Philadelphia 2 4 2 9 1 6 1 1 6 Baltimore 0 20 8 19 7 2 3 1 2 16 11 Norfolk 21 2 17 1 2 5 2 8 10 17 Mobile 21 3 13 4 14 2 1 5 15 New Orleans 11 4 36 10 19 3 16 15 24 1 Jacksonville 14 29 10 4 28 7 0 6 4 San Francisco 13 10 24 8 16 5 1 7 5 15 3 9 Wilmingtof! 1 20 4 23 2 11 8 0 14 Seattle 12 2 8 11 1 1 0 5 2 6 Puerto Rico 7 12 13 5 6 9 14 2 11 13 Honolulu 3 1 28 23 6 3 2 15 9 11 19 Houston 0 1 1 2 l 0 0 1 2 0 St. Louis 0 12 3 0 2 0 0 Piney Point 3 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Algonac 0 0 58 220 291 60 114 25 80 171 35 Totals 129 STEWARD DEPARTMENT Port 1 25 21 8 0 12 16 1 11 New York 13 7 0 1 1 0 0 1 4 0 1 Philadelphia 1 2 0 1 2 2 0 Baltimore 2 1 0 19 5 11 3 1 5 5 3 Norfolk 6 8 3 10 15 2 1 4 5 4 0 11 Mobile 5 1 13 8 1 5 6 8 4 New Orleans 8 21 14 7 6 4 1 10 4 Jacksonv1lle 13 12 12 63 15 8 12 0 4 17 10 San Francisco 33 14 6 20 5 3 0 Wilmington 7 2 6 13 12 2 35 13 6 1 3 0 5 19 Seattle 2 2 7 5 1 0 3 2 2 Puerto Rico 7 18 19 15 1 2 3 3 10 Honolulu 7 9 5 7 20 1 5 6 6 5 2 13 Houston 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 1 1 0 St. Louis 0 6 11 0 0 6 2 0 Piney Point 9 8 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Algonac 0 0 63 256 158 62 65 11 88 33 156 95 Totals ENTRY DEPARTMENT Port 37 91 10 2 0 17 6 45 7 New York 6 4 8 1 0 1 0 0 4 Philadelphia 2 0 8 1 10 0 I 0 1 2 6 0 Baltimore 26 33 8 0 6 8 0 4 17 13 Norfolk 3 30 5 0 2 11 1 2 16 2 Mobile 33 35 IO 0 1 17 5 25 13 New Or1eans 3 28 34 4 0 4 4 9 12 15 2 Jacksonville 33 21 38 3 0 3 10 7 12 San Francisco 10 17 25 8 0 5 3 11 7 16 Wilmington 7 18 42 12 0 4 0 6 24 9 Seattle 5 11 8 4 0 7 3 3 5 6 Puerto Rico 1 137 63 6 0 9 1 10 46 23 3 Honolulu 13 34 7 0 0 7 I 13 5 Houston 3 1 3 0 0 0 1 0 1 1 St. Louis 0 27 6 0 0 0 15 0 3 30 Piney Point 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Algonac 0 376 481 97 0 45 34 119 251 136 Totals 46 Totals All 635 916 1,341 226 125 492 350 285 757 Del!artments 542 * ''Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. **"Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. A total of 1,193 jobs were shipped on SIU-contracted deep sea vessels. Of the 1,193 jobs shipped, 350 jobs or about 29 percent were taken by "A" seniority members. The rest were filled by "B" and "C" seniority people. From November 16 to December 15, 1994, a total of 226 trip relief jobs were shipped. Since the trip relief program began on April 1, 1982, a total of 22,161 jobs have been shipped. Piney Point Monday, February 6, March 6 New York Tuesday: February 7, March 7 Philadelphia Wednesday: February 8, March 8 Baltimore Thursday: February 9, March 9 Norfolk Thursday: February 9, March 9 Jacksonville Thursday: February 9, March 9 Algonac Friday: February 10, March IO Houston Monday: February 13, March 13 New Orleans Tuesday: February 14, March 14 Mobile Wednesday: February 15, March 15 San Francisco Thursday: February 16, March 16 Wilmington Tuesday, February 21 *;Monday, March 20 *changed by Presidents' Day Seattle Friday: February 24, March 24 San Juan Thursday: February 9, March 9 St. Louis Friday: February 17, March 17 Honolulu Friday: February 17, March 17 Duluth Wednesday: February 15, March 15 Jersey City Wednesday: February 22, March 22 New Bedford Tuesday: February 21, March 21 Each port's meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals DARRELL TOUCHSTONE and MARCLOUW Please contact Margie Harris at 5127 W. 141 st Street, Hawthorne, CA 90250; or telephone (310) 675-6679. GILBERT MORRIS WRIGHT The stepdaughter of Gilbert Morris Wright would like to get in touch with her stepfather. She would like her stepfather, or anyone who knows him, to call or write. Flora Marshall Baquol, 2140 Parksley Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21230; or telephone (410) 644-5447. . Notices PAY VOUCHERS NEEDED WITH SOME VA CATION APPLICATIONS Seafarers who have sailed aboard military vessels should provide copies of their pay vouchers when filing for vacation benefits related to employment. U.S. Coast Guard discharges do not show exact dates of employment, so the pay vouchers must be submitted as well. Applications submitted without copies of pay vouchers will be held in a pending status until the proper verification is received. 15 �16 SEAFARERS LOG Seafarers International Union Directory JANUARY 1995 Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes NOVEMBER 16 - DECEMBER 15, 1994 CL-Company/Lakes L-Lakes NP-Non Priority Michael Sacco President John Fay Secretary-Treasurer Joseph Sacco Executive Vice President Augustin Tellez Vice President Collective Bargaining George McCartney Vice President West Coast Roy A. "Buck" Mercer Vice President Government Services Jack Caffey Vice President Atlantic Coast Byron Kelley Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey Vice President Gulf Coast ---- · HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr. Algonac, MI 48001 (8 l 0) 794-4988 BALTIMORE 1216 E. Baltimore St. Baltimore, MD 21202 (410) 327-4900 DULUTH 705 Medical Arts Building Duluth, MN 55802 (2L8) 722-4110 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St. Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St. Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St. Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JERSEY CITY 99 Montgomery St. Jer ey City, NJ 07302 (20 J) 435-9424 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy. Mobile, AL 36605 (205) 478-0916 NEW BEDFORD 48 Union St. New Bedford, MA 02740 (508) 997-5404 NEW ORLEANS 630 Jackson Ave. New Orleans, LA 70130 (J04) ~29- 7546 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11232 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac 0 11 6 0 10 3 0 5 3 0 7 20 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP DECK DEPARTMENT 0 53 13 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 8 29 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 4 10 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 0 32 14 0 21 7 0 9 2 0 26 39 0 92 25 0 88 Totals All Departments 33 32 0 * ''Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. **"Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. 62 Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters NOVEMBER 16 - DECEMBER 15, 1994 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Cl~ C Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals 2 0 1 42 0 2 1 2 47 1 0 0 0 7 0 10 17 0 0 0 0 0 0 19 I 0 21 0 I 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 4 4 0 0 l TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A ClassB Class C DECK DEPARTMENT 3 0 0 1 0 3 0 19 0 41 1 39 64 1 42 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 1 0 0 12 0 0 0 0 0 0 13 0 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 0 1 1 0 0 3 0 2 3 0 7 4 0 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 5 2 16 0 10 0 36 0 53 81 28 89 2 3 1 0 1 0 0 2 0 0 21 6 49 27 1 33 2 4 0 9 1 0 16 l 1 2 32 84 46 130 21 1 2 72 Totals All Departments * "Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. ** "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. Sealift Antarctic Pulls into Port (718) 499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St Norfolk, VA 23510 (804) 622-1892 PHILADELPIDA 2604 S. 4 St. PhiJadeJphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75 Piney Point, MD 20674 (30 I) 994·0010 PORT EVERGLADES 2 West Dixie Highway Dania, FL 33004 (305) 921-5661 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St. San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Government Services Division (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop l 61/2 Santurce, PR 00907 (809) 721-4033 SEATTLE 2505 First Ave. Seattle, WA 98121 (206) 44 l- 1960 ST.LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave. St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave. Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP Completing some paperwork during the shipboard meeting are Pumpman Paul T. Lewis {left) and Bosun Ray Shinpoch. Representing the steward department, Chief Steward ErnestJ. Dumont and Chief Cook Rolando M. Lopez participate in a discussion during the union meeting. WiperBradleyK. Williams (right) urges OS Ronald D. Rizzuto to finish his breakfast so they can get to work. ABs Donald P. Harty and Adam S. Talucci are surrounded by upgrading information handed out during the meeting aboard the Sea/ift Antarctic. 4 4 0 5 0 9 14 107 Seafarers participated in a union meeting and payoff recently, when the Sealift Antarctic pulled into Moorhead City, N.C. to offload its cargo of oil and jet fuel. SIU Representative Sal Aquia met with the vessel's crewmembers, handing out copies of the Seafarers LOG as well as the necessary forms for health insurance, vacation time and upgrading courses. A frank discussion was held on the conditions aboard the sealift tanker. The union and crewmembers resolved to work together in order to promote job security for the membership. The Sealift Antarctic is one of nine MSC tankers being operated by International Marine Carriers (IMC), an SIU-contracted company, which transports Department of Defense refined petroleum products worldwide. They also provide support of Navy fleets conducting refueling-at-sea operations for the military. �SEFARERS LOG JANUARY 1995 To Our New Pensioners • • . Thanks for a Job Well Done Each month in the Seafarers LOG, the names of SIU members who recently have become pensioners appear with a brief biographical sketch. These men and women have served the maritime industry well, and the SIU and all their union brothers and sisters wish them happiness and health in the days ahead. T he Seafarers Pension Plan this month announces the retirements of nine SIU members who have completed their careers as U.S. flag ship merchant mariners. Seven of those signing off sailed in the deep sea division, one navigated the inland waterways and one worked on Great Lakes' vessels. Five of the retiring Seafarers served in the U.S. Army, one is a veteran of the U.S. Navy, and one sailed in the U.S. Coast Guard. Among those joining the ranks of the retirees, Charles J.A. Miles completed the steward recertification course, and Lancelot B. Rodrigues completed the bosun recertification course at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. On this page, the Seafarers LOG presents brief biographical accounts of those members retiring this month. DEEP SEA \ ~J1~1s CLARKE, 61 joined e Seafarers in 1953 in the port of New York. ==::.....:.....=-'---"=..c...l Brother Clarke sailed in the steward department. He served in the U.S. Army from 1950 to 1952. Born in Pennsylvania, Brother Clarke currently resides in Texas. ARTHUR CHARLES DePUY,65, signed on with the SIU in 1968 in the port of Wilmington, Calif. Brother DePuy sailed in the engine department. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1948 to 1952. A native of Minnesota, Brother Depuy has retired to his home state. VINCENT ROSENDO LIMON,62, a native of Texas, began sailing with the union in 1960 in the port of Houston. Brother Limon shipped in the engine department and upgraded his rating to QMED at the Lundeberg School. He served in the U.S. Army from 1955 t_o 1956. Brother Limon has retired to Texas. CHARLES J.A. MILES,66, joined the Seafarers in 1965 in the port of New York. Brother Miles sailed in the steward department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School where he completed the steward recertification program in 1985. He served in the U.S. Army from 1948 to 1955. Brother Miles has retired to his home state of Alabama. ARLENE. QUINN,63, graduated from the Andrew Furuseth Training School in i._....::=:.;.;====-=-:....J ' New York in 1956 and began sailing with the union from the hall in the same city. Brother Quinn sailed in the deck department. He served two years in the U.S. Army. A native of New York, Brother Quinn continues to reside there. port of New York. Brother Rodrigues sailed in the deck department and completed the bosun recertification program at the Lundeberg School in 1974. A native of British Guiana, he now resides in Puerto Rico. 17 Boatman Perry sailed in the deck department. He served in the U.S. Coast Guard from 1949 to 1971. Born in Kitty Hawk, N.C., Boatman Perry has retired to his hometown. GREAT LAKES ROBERT BRUCE BIRD,62, joined the the SIU in 1963 in the IMRO port of EDDY Chicago. SALOMONS, '----~=---' Brother Bird 69,began shipped in the deck department. sailing with He served in the U.S. Army from the SIU in 1952 to 1954. Born in Wiscon1965 in the sin, Brother Bird currently lives port of New in Illinois. i.:....:::..-==:;:__:;=----' York. Brother Salomons sailed in the CORRECTION engine department. He upgraded frequently at the Lundeberg In last month's pension notice School and worked his way up on Canova Floyd Mitchell from oiler/FOWT to Jr., some information was inQMED/pumpman. Born in advertently omitted. Brother Surinam, Dutch Guiana, the Mitchell served in the U.S. naturalized U.S. citizen presently Army from 1951to1953. He lives in New York. completed the steward recertification program at the LunINLAND deberg School in 1980 and also participated in a union RUPERT crew conference there. PARKER Brother Mitchell shipped as a PERRY, steward/baker, sailing most SR.,62, recently as chief steward joined the aboard the Cape Taylor. He union in presently resides in Mobile, 1972 in the Ala. with his wife, Val. port of Norfolk, Va. All Hands on Deck LANCELOT BERNARD RODRIGUES, 65, signed on with the Seafarers in 1965 in the Many memories were shared by seven retired deck department Seafarers on November 25 as they met at the home of Bill Parker in Big Branch, La. From left. S. Monardo, Red Gorgas, Ed Rihn, Chad Galt, Harold Nelli, Bill Parker and Percy Kennedy shipped out of the New Orleans SIU hall during their seafaring years. A Sweet Design The Seafarers LOG is interested in publishing a greater number of photos of SIU members' families at home or on vacation. Color as well as black-and-white photographs are acceptable. When sending photos to the LOG, be sure to identify the individuals from left to right. Also, indicate if the photo should be returned. Send photos and identifications to Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. While attending steward department upgrading courses at the Lundeberg School last November, Cook/Baker Rebecca L. Hedge {left) and Chief Steward Antoinette Spangler use their free time to bake, construct and decorate the school's first gingerbread house of the season. �18 SEAFARERS LOG JANUARY 1995 Digest of Ships Meetings reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck or steward delegate. Crew discussed Seafarers LOG information and TB test material received from company. Crew requested new movies, ship's radio and TV antenna. Vessel sailing on to Aruba. The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space LEADER (Kirby Tankship ), October limitations, some will be omitted. 28-Chainnan Patrick Rankin, Ships minutes first are reviewed by the union's contract department. Secretary Henry Manning, EducaThose issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the tional Director Richard Gracey, Steward Delegate Arthur Aguinalunion upon receipt of the ships minutes. The minutes are then do. Chairman noted crew washing forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. machine, VCR and ice machine have SEA-LAND INDEPENDENCE (Sea-Land Service), September25Chairman Kenneth McGregor, Secretary James Prado, Deck Delegate George Fries, Engine Delegate Joseph Vain, Steward Delegate Amanda Suncin. Chairman encouraged crewmembers to ask congressional representatives to vote for maritime legislation. He advised crew of new procedure for dumping refuse and announced policy posted in garbage room. The bosun also reminded crewmembers to report unsafe conditions to depanment head. He asked crew to keep lounge and personal quarters clean and report any needed repairs. No beefs or disputed OT reported by all three departments. Crewmembers reported key to mess hall and lounge kept by gangway watch. Crew thanked steward department for care in preparing and serving meals. Next port: Dutch Harbor, Alaska. SEAL/FT ARABIAN SEA (IMC), September 18-Chairman Tom Prather, Secretary R. Seaman, Educational Director Donald Swanner, Deck Delegate Kimberly Clark. Chairman asked crewmembers not to leave open food in rooms. He announced arrival of Seafarers LOGs and stated safety videos and Lundeberg School applications available on ship. Crew discussed purchase of new VCR. No beefs or disputed OT reported by crewmembers. Chairman read letter from SIU President Michael Sacco encouraging union members to urge congressmen to pass bills beneficial to American seamen and U.S. shipping industry. Crew discussed importance of such activities and agreed to put forth a strong letter-writing campaign. Ship heading to Greece. AMERICAN CORMORANT (Osprey Shipping), October 30Chainnan Vernon Hudett, Secretary Joseph Williams, Deck Delegate Mike Plunte, Engine Delegate Lawrence Rose, StewMd Delegate Robert Wright. Chairman told crewmembers new transformer will be picked up in Diego Garcia. He stated new fan on bridge and CD player for crewmembers installed. He announced new refrigerator for crewmembcrs also received. Educational director asked all shipmates to help keep crew lounge, furniture and laundry room clean. Treasurer reported $100 in ship's fund. Engine delegate asked crewmembers to keep noise down in hallways. No beefs or disputed OT reported in all departments. CAPE WASHINGTON (Amsea), October 4-Chairman Robert Johnson, Secretary Kyle White, Educational Director A. Parker, Deck Delegate John Gibbon, Engine Delegate Mike Stearman, Steward Delegate Christopher Green. Chairman noted engine department working on air conditioning. Educational director stressed importance of upgrading at Paul Hall Center to enhance knowledge and improve job security. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew reported holiday greeting forms for Seafarers LOGs received. Treasurer announced $180 from ship's fund used to purchase gas grill and propane, leaving balance of $419.56. No beefs or disputed OT reported by crewmembers. Crew extended vote of appreciation to Chief Cook Green for great food and cookouts. Next port: Saipan, Japan. CHAMPION (Kirby Tankships), October 16--Chainnan Robert Allen, Secretary Joseph Birke, Educational Director James McDaniels, Deck Delegate Clemente Roche, Engine Delegate Clyde Smith, Steward Delegate John Foster. Educational director discussed importance of upgrading skills at Piney Point. No -- beefs or disputed OT reported by all three departments. Crew thanked galley gang for job well done. CHARLESTON (Apex Marine), October 27-Chairman Ray Tate, Secretary K. Jones, Educational Director Milton Israel. Chairman advised crewmembers of infonnation on layup of ship. He announced payoff while in shipyard. Secretary asked crew to donate to SPAD and upgrade at Lundeberg School. Educational director reminded crewmembers of importance of upgrading skiJls. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman announced information concerning tanker safety course received and posted. GALVESTON BAY (Sea-Land Service}, October 2-Chairman Jim Davis, Secretary Frank Costango, Educational Director Miguel Rivera, Deck Delegate James Higgins, Engine Delegate Robert Whitaker, Steward Delegate Felix Camacho. Secretary reported discussion with captain about increasing stores for next trip. Educational director advised members to upgrade skills at Piney Point. Deck delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward departments. Crew reminded to close house doors at all levels of ship. Crew gave vote of thanks to steward department for job well done. Discussion held about removing shoes in crew lounge to preserve excellent floor-waxing job by deck department. Next port: Charleston, S.C. GEM STA TE (IMC), October 18Chairman George Wilson, Secretary Peter Schmitt, Educational Director Don Paul Wroten, Dede Delegate Paul Matsos. Steward Delegate Joyce O'Donnell. No beefs or disputed OT reported by all three departments. Crewmembers stated steward department went over and above regular duties to keep crew well fed. Crew reported smooth sailing and noted pictures of voyage sent to S1wfarers LOG. Next port: Pusan, Korea. GREEN ISLAND (Waterman Steamship), October 23-Chairman Eugene Grantham, Secretary John Reid, Educational Director Ralph Baker. Chairman reported good trip and thanked deck crew for work reports. He advised crewmembers of arrival in port of New Orleans on October 30 and urged members to take advantage of Paul Hall Center to upgrade skills. Secretary thanked all crewmembers for efforts to keep ship dean. He encouraged members to read Seafarers WG and upgrade at Piney Point as often as possible. He reminded crew to turn over clean rcx.>m to those signing on and leave fresh linen. He extended special thanks to Chief Cook Anthony Bach for excellent Chinese meals prepared during voyage. No beefs or disputed OT reported by all three departments. Crew reported Chrisbnas message information and LOGs received in Singapore. Crewmembers noted new movie fund begun. Next Port: New Orleans. JULIUS HAMMER (Ocean Chemical Transport), October 9-Chainnan William Sharp, Secretary Sinclair Wilcox, Educational Director Larry Phillips, Deck Delegate Marvin Mason, Engine Delegate David Kinard, Steward Delegate Kenneth Kelly. Crew requested copy of contract and new TV and VCR for lounge. Crew reported couch in lounge needs replacement. Chairman and crew thanked galley gang for good meals. Educational director reminded all hands to keep copies of Coast Guard discharges because agency no longer does. Treasurer noted $120 donated to captain for Marisat news service. Engine delegate been replaced. He added mail to be received once per month aboard ship. He advised crew of payoff on November 3. Secretary announced grits and fresh milk to be purchased in Jacksonville, Fla. Educational director reminded eligible crewmembers to apply for upgrading courses in Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed putting plastic and garbage in proper cans in crew lounge. Chairman reminded crewmembers to keep bulkheads clean. to contact Piney Point for upgrading opportunities. Course schedule is in Seafarers LOG. Treasurer announced $400 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported by crewmembers. Letter from SIU Welfare Plan concerning eligibility changes in plan posted on bulletin board as well as holiday greeting forms for LOG. Crew asked contracts department to look into improvements in dental plan. Crew thanked steward department for good meals. Next port: Arun, Indonesia. MAJOR STEPHEN W. PLESS (Waterman Steamship), October29Chairman Robert Hagood, Deck Delegate Julius Purcell, Engine Delegate Torry Kidd, Steward Delegate Tom Misko. Chairman announced payoff and asked contracts department if crewmembers attending firefighting school will be able to collect vacation bene fits . No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed improving ship's library and replacing VCR in crew lounge. Bosun asked crew to close doors Gracia, Deck Delegate Michael Jackson, Engine Delegate Lauri Harris, Steward Delegate Juan Gonzales. Chairman announced payoff and layup in Port Arthur, Texas. He thanked all departments for jobs well done. Secretary reminded members of increased earning opportunities available by attending upgrading courses at Lundeberg School. Engine delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck or steward delegates. Crew thanked galley gang for great food and keeping things in order. OVERSEAS OHIO (Maritime Overseas), October 27-Chairman Walter Weaver, Secretary Earl Gray, Educational Director Scott Wilkinson, Deck Delegate Matthew Bevak, Engine Delegate Karl Benes, Steward Delegate Musa Ahmed. Chairman informed crewmembers of new required safety course for all tanker personnel beginning in January 1995. He urged members to attend the course to enhance job security . He announced Seafarers LIBERTY SPIRIT (Liberty Maritime), October 30-Chairrnan Terry Cowan Sr_, Secretary Osvaldo Castagnino, Educational Director German Valerio, Deck Delegate Steve Thompson, Engine Delegate Walter Laux, Steward Delegate Rotttria Lacy. Educational director recommended all members attend upgrading courses at Lundeberg School. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested videotape rewinder for crew lounge. Next port: Norfolk, Va. LIBERTY SUN (Liberty Maritime), October 20-Chairman Ralph Moore, Secretary F. L. Washington Sr., Educational Director Rodney Seaberg, Engine Delegate Bruce Robinson, Steward DeJegate Joseph Brooks. Chairman announced new crew washing machine hooked up. Secretary asked crewmembers signing off to turn in room keys and safety kits and bring all dirty linen to locker. He said members should ensure rooms and refrigerators are clean before departing ship. Treasurer reported $190 in movie fund. Deck delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegates. Crew discussed having a designated smoking area. LNG CAPRICORN (ETC), October 2-Chairman Charles Kahl, Secretary Dana Paradise, Educational Director Otis Sessions, Engine Delegate Gary Frazier, Steward Delegate Udjang Nurdjaja. Chair.man welcomed new crewmembers aboard. He reminded crew to donate to SPAD for job security. He reported welcome speech by Captain Phancenek well received by crewmembers. Educational director urged members to take advantage of Lundeberg School for better job skills and earning power. No beefs or disputed OT reported by all three departments. Chairman added holiday greeting forms available. Crew reminded to keep laundry room clean and machines free of clothes so everyone can use them. Crew discussed sanitary duties and thanked galley gang for fine meals being served. Next port: Arnn, Indonesia. LNG CAPRICORN (ETC), October 24-Chairman Charles Kahl, Secretary Dana Paradise, Educational Director Otis Sessions, Engine Delegate Gary Frazier, Steward Delegate Udjang Nurdjaja. Chairman reminded all to donate to SPAD. Educational director encouraged crew to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer reported $343 in ship's fund. Deck delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegates. Crew wiJI write lo congressmen to urge passage of maritime bill. Crew gave vote of thanks to steward department for fine meals. Next port: Bontang, Indonesia. LNG LEO (ETC). October 9-Chairman Billie Darley, Secretary Henry Jones Jr., Educational Director Sean Nolan, Deck Delegate Aubrey Davis, Engine Delegate John Orr, Steward Delegate Amy Ripple. Chairman reminded crew to leave agreement books in rooms for next crewmember when signing off. He thanked crew for good voyage and announced his departure in Korea. Educational director urged members Freedom's Galley Gang Recertified Chief Steward Robert Hess (left), GSU Louis Gonzalez (center) and Chief Cook Cloduardo Gomez make up the galley gang aboard the Sea-Land Freedom on its shuttle run from Europe to Asia. This photo was taken recently when the vessel was leaving Singapore. quietly. Crew gave vote of thanks to steward department for job well done. Next port: Panama City, Fla. MAYAGUEZ(PRMMI), October 31-Chairman Herminio Serrano, Secretary Richard Eward, Deck Delegate Carlos Canales, Steward Delegate Antonio Colon. No beefs or disputed OT reported by all three department delegates. Crew asked contracts department to look into possibility of lowering retirement age. Next port: Port Elizabeth, N.J. OOCL /NNOVATION(Sea-Land Service). October 23-Chairman Mark Lamar, Secretary Edward Collins, Educational Director Douglas Greiner. Secretary stressed importance of donating to SPAD and thanked crew for keeping pantry clean. Educational director advised members to attend upgrading courses at Piney Point. Steward delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck or engine delegates. Crew requested new VCR and thanked galley gang for job well done. Next port: Boston. OVERSEAS HARRIETTE (Maritime Overseas), October 30Chainnan Daniel Laitinen, Secretary George Quinn, Educational Director Charles Dallas, Deck Delegate Donnie McCawley. Engine Delegate Don Volluz, Steward Delegate Miguel Aguilar. Chairman reported smooth voyage to Lithuania and announced ship will load at Westwego Grain. He added payoff will take place November 7 before sailing to Guatemala. Secretary asked crewmembers to help put plastic in proper disposal cans. Educational director discussed importance of upgrading skills at Lundeberg School. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman announced receipt of Seafarers LOGs and reminded seamen to renew zcards. Crew discussed ways for funding new TV antenna for crew lounge. Steward department thanked for job well done. OVERSEAS MARILYN (Maritime Overseas), October23-Chairman Marco Galliano, Secretary Jose Rivera, Educational Director Louis LOGs received and advised members to read thoroughly. He thanked entire crew for hard work and good trip. New VCR purchased by captain; crew gave him vote of thanks. Secretary noted that galley refrigerator repaired by engineers and thanked entire crew for helping keep ship clean. Educational director advised members to continue their maritime education at Piney Point. He advised members to consider taking specialty courses such as refrigeration. No beefs or disputed OT reported by all departments. Entire crew extended special vote of thanks to steward department for excellent job. Next port: Valdez, Alaska. OVERSEAS WASHINGTON (Maritime Overseas), October 23Chairman Tim Koebel, Secretary Robert Miller, Educational Director John Groom, Deck Delegate Matthew Dunn, Steward Delegate Charles Atkins. Chairman announced day off for crewmembers in port of Houston. He reported 1994 maritime legislation killed by farm-state senators who used rare maneuver to block vote in Senate. Educational director reminded members to return to Lundeberg School to take refrigeration technician course. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested new TV antenna and VCR for crew lounge and cleaner for videotapes. Chairman asked crewmembers to observe posted smoking hours for crew lounge and for everyone to rewind tapes and return them to bridge. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. SEA-LAND CHALLENGER (SeaLand Service), October 23-Chairman Ray Todd, Secretary Herbert Scypes, Educational Director Gary Morrison, Engine Delegate Alfred Gonzalez, Steward Delegate Osvaldo Rios. Chairman announced payoff in -Elizabeth, N.J. Secretary asked contracts department to secure necessary additional overtime hours for steward department. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck, engine or steward department delegates. Crew requested new VCR for crew lounge. Vote of thanks given to galley gang for good meals and service. �SEAFARERS LOG JANUARY 1995 From left, Linehandler Daniel Valentin and Mechanics Alfonso Morales and Rene Pedraza enter the San Juan hall to take part in the Thanksgiving festivities. 19 Enjoying the meal in San Juan are OS Angel Soto (left) and Bosun Neftali Santana. AB Greg Calvello (left}, DEU Eddie Wood (second from right) and AB Tom Arriola help themselves to the feast at the Houston hall. Retirees David Velandra (right} and Beau James (above) prepare the meal while AB Albert Haarmann (above left} and SA Ralph Fann (lower L~---~.....-. left) prepare to dig in. C~~~~~i\;~_J_I_ ~ . Active and retired Seafarers, along with their families and guests, recently shared the spirit of Thanksgiving at the SIU halls in Houston, San Francisco and San Juan, P.R. Turkey, ham, sweet potatoes, stuffing, mashed potatoes and gravy, fresh rolls, pumpkin pie and other delicacies were enjoyed at each hall. Voluntarily prepared by active and retired SIU gal- Above: At the hall in San Juan, P.R., Retiree Abraham Aragones (left) serves a helping of beans to QMED Albert Garcia. In photos at right and above right, Seafarers C.H. Mejias, Raymond Fernandez, Louis Rodz, Ty Harden, John Baker, Edwin Semprit and guests sample the pies and other treats in San Juan. ley gang members, the meals left everyone pleasantly full, noted representatives from the respective ports. San Francisco had the largest turnout, with more than 350 people on hand for the hall's fifth annual feast. SIU Port Agents Nick Ce1ona (San Francisco), Steve Ruiz (San Juan) and Jim McGee (Houston) provided the photos for this page. An SIU Thanksgiving Ready for dessert in San Francisco are (1-r) QMED Freddie Varona, Messman Patricio Catito, Asst. Cook Ralph Aquino, Chief Cook M. Abuan and Chief Cook Mike Sparanza. Chief Steward Burt Richardson Retiree Roland Francisco Chief Cook John Blasquez I Nineteen tur~ were prepar~~ feed the San Francisco group. I ; Retiree Eddie Kasa (left), Assistant Cook Clifford Scott and the other Seafarers pictured here prepared the meal in San Francisco. �20 SEAFARERS LOG JANUARY 1995 Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership's money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretarytreasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate finclings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member's shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing clirectly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers WG traditionally has refrainedfrompublishinganyarticle servingthepoliticalpurposesofany individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful totheunionoritscollectivemembership. Thisestablishedpolicyhasbeen reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers WG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, orifamember is required to make a payment and isgivenanofficialreceipt,butfeels that ~e or she should not have been reqmred to make such payment, A New Year ... A New Opportunity for Education Even if getting an education this year was not on your list of New Year's resolutions, it is not too late to think about adding it. If the cost of an education is what is holding you back, try applying for a scholarship. All Seafarers, their spouses and dependent children who plan to attend college next fall are encouraged to apply for one of seven scholarships being awarded in 1995 by the Seafarers Welfare Plan. Three will go to SIU members; the other four will be awarded to the spouses or dependent children of eligible Seafarers and SIU pensioners . April 15, 1995 is the deadline-just three months away. Three months may sound like a lot of time to fill out an application form. But there is actually more to it than that. The applicant must not only fil1 out the application form, but must also include other items in the entire package. These include an autobiographical statement, photograph, certified copy of birth certificate, high school transcript, letters of reference and SAT or ACT score results. And all of these items take some time to collect. The SAT or ACT tests, for example, must be taken no later than February of the year in which the awards are granted . This ensures that the test results will reach the scholarship committee in time for the selection process. Eligibility requirements for the scholarship are spelled out in a booklet which contains an application form. It is available at all SIU halls or by .. BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENT fil1ing out the coupon below and returning it to the Seafarers Welfare Plan. This is the start of a new year. There is no reason to put off your dreams of a better education for yourself or your eligibile family members any longer. Remember, however, in order to be considered for one of the seven scholarships, you must apply-and all materials in the application package must be sent to the Seafarers Welfare Plan on or before April 15, 1995. Address _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ City, State, Zip C o d e - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Telephone Number _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Self D Th.e irusilias'committed itself ropay claims incurred under the tenns of the plan. lease send me the 1995 SIU Scholarship Program booklet which contains eligibility information, procedures for applying and the application form. D NOTIFYING THE UNIONIf at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify Sill President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 207 46. This is a summary of the annual report of the Seafarers Welfare Fund, EIN 13-5557534, Plan No. 501, for the period January 1, 1993 through December 31, 1993. The annual report has been filed with the Internal Revenue Service, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (BRISA). Send for Your Application Form Today! This application is for: marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. SUMMARYANNUALREPORTFOR SEAFARERS WELFARE FUND r------------------------------------------------~ P this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. C 0 N S T I TUT I 0 N A L RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All memhers are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant Dependent Mail this completed form to Scholarship Program, Seafarers Welfare Plan, 5201 Auch Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. 1195 ------------------------------------------------~ The value of pfari assetS, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was ($33>736,389) as of December 31, 1993, compared to ($42)33,981) as of January 1, 1993. During the plan year, the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $8,397 ,592. This increase includes unrealized . appreciation and depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the value of the plan's assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at thebeginning of the year or the cost of assets acquired during the year. During the plan year, the plan had a total income of $41,947,714, including employer contributions of $41,729,623, realized losses of $5,061 from the sale of assets, and earnings from investments of $214,805. Plan expenses were $33,550,122. These expenses included $4,663,330 in administrative expenses and $28,886,792 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. YOUR RIGHTS TO ADDITIONAL INFORMATION You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: 1. An accountant's report, 2. Assets held for investment, 3. Loans or other obligations in default and 4. Transactions in excess of 5 percent of plan assets. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the Board of Trustees, Seafarers Welfare Fund, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746; telephone (301) 899-0675. The charge to cover copying costs will be $1.70 for the full annual report or $.10 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and <}CCompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan (Board of Trustees, Seafarers Welfare Fund, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746; (301) 899-0675) and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, DC, or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department ofLaborupon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to; Public Disclosure Room, N5507, Pension and Welfare Benefits Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20210. �JANUARY 1995 SEAFARERS LOG 21 Final Departures DEEP SEA ALBERTO AGUIAR Alberto Aguiar, 48, was an active SIU member when he passed away November 24. He began his sailing career in 1964 in the port of New York, after graduating from the Andrew Furuseth Training School in 1963. He started working in the engine department as a wiper and upgraded to QMED. Brother DeChamp completed the steward recertification program in 1981 at the Lundeberg School. He served in the U.S. Anny from 1938 to 1945. Brother DeChamp retired in March 1989. WILLIAM E. FOLEY Pensioner William E. Foley, 75, passed away October 13. A native of Providence, R.I., he joined the SIU in 1970 in the port of Boston. Brother Foley sailed in the steward department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. Brother Foley began receiving his pension in September 1988. KENNETH GAHAGAN FELIPE BASALDU Pensioner Felipe Basaldu, 78, died November 27. A native of Texas, Brother Basaldu signed on with the SIU in 1953 in the port of Galveston, Texas. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Basaldu began receiving his pension in November 1981. BRIAND. BILLAC Brian D. Billac, 42, passed away December 4. Brother Billac, an active SIU member at the ti his death, joined the u · m 1969 in the por ew Orleans after co mg the Lundeberg S s training course for entry evel seamen. Brother Billac sailed in both the deck and steward departments during his seafaring career. Pensioner Kenneth Gahagan, 70, died November 9. Brother Gahagan signed on with the union in 1952 in the port of Galveston, Texas. He shipped in the deck department. Brother Gahagan upgraded frequently at the Lundeberg School and completed the bosun recertification program there in 1974. He retired to his native state of North Carolina in April 1987. WILLIAM H. JOHNSON ISAAC SIMS Pensioner WilliamH. Johnson, 67, passed away October29. A native of . ·~. \ Pen~sylvania, · ·hl he signed on ' Yi with the i union in 1943 in the port of Baltimore. Brother Johnson sailed in the deck department. He served in the U.S. Anny from 1951 to 1953. Brother Johnson began receiving his pension in October 1989. Pensioner Isaac Sims, 75, passed away November 28. A native of Texas, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1959 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the sru·s AGLIWD. Brother Sims retired in December 1979. JESSEN. JONES Pensioner Jesse N. Jones, 82, died September 24. Brother Jones joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1945, before that union merged with the SIU' s AGLIWD. Born in Newport, Ark., Brother Jones lived in Texas. He retired in January 1974. ADAM KA WELOLANI Pensioner Adam Kawelolani, 74, passed away August 22, 1993. Born in Hawaii, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1947 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with sru•s AGLIWD. Brother Kawelolani began receiving his pension in November 1984. ROBERT A. KELNER Pensioner Robert A. Kelner, 70, passed away September 7, 1993. Brother Kelner joined theMarine Cooks and Stewards before that union merged with the SIU' s AGLIWD. Born in North Dakota, Kelner retired in August 1968. RAUL I. LOPEZ EDWARD L. COLLINS ~~-....,...,""'"""' Pensioner Edward L. Collins, 71, passed away October 5. Born in Alabama, he joined the ~-,t union in 1960 · in the port of Mobile, Ala. Brother Collins sailed in the deck department. In 1970 he participated in a union crew conference at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. Brother Collins began receiving his pension in January 1988. . ARTHUR DeCHAMP Pensioner Arthur DeChamp, 77, 1 died October 25. Brother DeChamp was bomin Massachusetts and began his sailing career with the Seafarers in 1962 in the port of Seattle. He sailed in the steward department and upgraded to chief cook. Then, Pensioner C. L. Hickenbotam, 67, +:·:: died Septem:.< ber 30. Brother Hickenbotarn joined the Seafarers in 1965 in the port of Houston. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School where he completed the bosun recertification program in 1982. A native of Louisiana, Brother Hickenbotam retired in July 1992. CHARLES L. HIPPARD Pensioner CharlesL. Hippard, 84, passed away December 2. Born in Illinois, Brother Hippard began his sailing career with the SIU in 1952 in the port of Philadelphia. He shipped in the steward department and worked his way up to chief steward. Brother Hippard began receiving his pension in June 1973. EDWARD C. JACKSON Pensioner Edward C. Jackson, 82, died June 21. Brother Jackson began sailing on the West Coast in 1942. He was a member of the Marine Cooks and Stewards union, before that union merged with the Sill's AGLIWD. Brother Jackson resided in San Francisco and had retired there in April 1974. Pensioner Raul I. Lopez, 73, died November9. Brother Lopez began his sailing career with the Seafarers in 1957 in the =---======:..J port of New York. He shipped in the deck department. A native of Puerto Rico, Brother Lopez began receiving his pension in December 1986. JAMES K. PURSELL Pensioner James K. Pursell, 76. passed away October 3. A native of Mississippi, Brother Pursell was a charter member of the SIU 1 joining the union in 1938 in the port of Mobile, Ala. He shipped in the steward department. Brother Pursell retired to Alabama in October 1978. JOSEPH RIOUX Pensioner Joseph Rioux, 68, died September 27. ~f!P5;.:.~DI Born in Nashua, N.H., he signed on with the SIU in 1945 in the =:.----~= port of Boston. Brother Rioux sailed in both the steward and engine departments. Brother Rioux began receiving his pension in March 1984. ROY R. THOMAS Pensioner RoyR. Thomas, 67, died November 28. Brother Thomas began his sailing career with the Seafarers in 1952 in the port of New Orleans. He sailed in the steward department and completed the steward recertification program in 1982 at the Lundeberg School. Brother Thomas was born in Alabama and began receiving his pension in November 1992. FREDERICK E. WALKER · •• .r::: Pensioner 0 Frederick E. Walker, 68, passed away November3. Born in Wilmington, Calif., he · signed on with the union in 1948 in the port of New York. Brother Walker sailed in the deck department and completed the bosun recertification program in 1975 at the Lundeberg School. He retired in June 1984. WESLEY YOUNG Pensioner Wesley Young, 80, died October 22. In 1942, · during World WarII, Brother Young joined the union in the port of Baltimore. He shipped in the steward department and worked his way up to chief steward. Brother Young began receiving his pension in March 1970. INLAND JOHN BECKER Pensioner John Becker, 78, passed away September 12. A native of Minnesota, Boatman Becker joined the Seafarers in 1976 in the port of Norfolk, Va. and sailed in the deck department. A World War II veteran, he served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 through 1945. Boatman Becker retired in October 1987 . JERRY W. BLAN Pensioner JerryW. Blan, 66, died November 30. He began sailing with the SIU in 1953 in the port of New York. Boatman Blan worked in the deck department and ultimately became a captain. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1945 to 1949. Boatman Blan was born in Arkansas and began receiving his pension in September 1988. WALTERJ.MOSKAL Pensioner Walter J. Moskal, 65, passed away November 20. Boatman Moskal signed on with the union in 1976 in the port of Nor- folk, Va. and shipped in the steward department. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1948 to 1968. Born in Poland, Boatman Moskal retired in June 1991. LEROY H. SIMONEAUX Pensioner Leroy H. Simoneaux, 69, died November 14. Born in Louisiana, he joined the Seafarers in ~~~ 1957 in the port of New Orleans. Boatman Simoneaux shipped as a tankerman in the deck department. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps in the midst of WW II, from 1942 to 1943. Boatman Simoneaux began receiving his retirement in May 1982. GEORGE C. WILLIAMS Pensioner George C. Williams, 98, passed away November 20. Boatman Williams began working aboard Curtis Bay tugs in 1936 and joined the union in the port of Philadelphia. He sailed in the deck department and worked his way up to captain. Boatman Williams was born in Delaware. He retired in September 1962. GREAT LAKES JOSEPH J. KOHNKE Pensioner Joseph J. Kohnke, 84, died October 26. Brother Kohnke started work. ing in the Milwaukee, Wis. harbor in the early 1930s and later joined the Seafarers in 1961 in the union hall in that city. During the shipping season, he worked on tugboats as a linesman; during the winter, he helped repair the Great Lakes ore carriers docked at Jones Island in the Milwaukee harbor. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1944 to 1946. Brother Kohnke began receiving his pension in January 1976. OSCAR MIDTLYNG Pensioner Oscar Midtlyng, 88, passed away October 29. Brother Midtlyng was employed by the Ann Arbor (Mich.) Railroad and joined the SIU in 1953 in the port of Frankfort, Mich. He shipped in the deck department. Brother Midtlyng was born in Norway and retired in September 1971. DAVID K. ZOLNIEREK David K. Z.01nierek, 54, died November2. He joined the union in 1988 in the port of Algonac, Mich. Anative of Michigan, Brother Z.Olnierek lived in Alpena, Mich. RAILWAY MARINE EUGENE S. LANE Pensioner EugeneS. Lane, 64, passed away October 1. A native ofNew}X>rt News, Va, he joined the SIU in 1956 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Brother Lane sailed as a deckhand. He retired in July 1983. �22 SEAFARERS LOG JANUARY 1995 Lundeberg School Graduating Classes HARRY SCHOOL LIFEBOAT CLASS 531 Trainee Lifeboat Class 531- Graduating from trainee lifeboat class 531 are (from left, kneeling) Keith Gebhard, Anna Martin, Jerome Torrence, Nasser Nagi, Kimberly Vaughan, Thalis Ealy, (second row) Jeff Swanson (instructor), Jerome Sorupia, Oscar Caraballo, Corey Clancy, Erik Rivera, Jason Capozello, Travis Austin, Bryan Lefler and Heath Jones. Bridge Management-Working their way up the deck department ratings are (from left, kneeling) Jared Blavat, Steven Tepper, Ken Frederick, Virgilio Penales, (second row) Jessie Holmes (instructor), Thomas Keenan Jr., Jim Brown (instructor), James Sullivan, Chris Conway, Christopher Kavanagh, Paul Van Hollebeke and John Gilliam. U pgraders Lifeboat-Upgrading graduates of the November 14 lifeboat class are (from left, kneeling) Chris Cote, Willie Jones Jr., Eduardo Correa, Carlos Suazo, Mario A. Firme Jr., (second row) Bob Boyle (instructor), Joel Molinas, Cloda Kelley, Samuel Dixon, Christopher D. Owens, Dwayne Jones, Willie R. Robinson Ill, Joseph F. Laureta and Tom Gilliland (instructor). SUMMARYANNUALREPORTFOR MCS SUPPLEMENTARY PENSION PLAN This is a summary of tbe annllal iep0ri of the MCS Supplementary Pension Plan EIN 51-6097856 for the year ended December 31, 1993. The annual report has been filed with the . Internal Revenue Service, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENT Marine Electrical Maintenance-The October 25 graduates of the marine electrical maintenance course are (from left, kneeling) Stan Popov, Joseph Holzinger, Sellers Brooks, Earl F. Ebbert, (second row) Mark Jones (instructor), Stephen R. Harrington, Ross Himebach, Curtis Jackson, Ernest Cox, Alfred Herrmann, John Lange and Glenn Snow. Benefits under the plan are provided by the Trust. Plan expenses were $1 ,281, 752. These expenses included $255,438 in administrative expen~ ses, and $1,026,314 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 1,828 persons were participantg in, or beneficiaries of, the plan at the end of the plan year, ruthougb not all of these persons had yet earned the right to receive benefits. The value of plan assets after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $11,963,391 as of December 31, 1993, compared to$1 l,903,392 as of January 1, 1993. During the plan year, the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $59,999. This increase includes unreaHzed appreciation in the value of the plan assets; that is, the difference between the current value of assets at the beginning of the year plus the cost of any assets acquired during the year less the current value of assets at the end of the year. The plan had a total income of $1,341,751, including a gain of $247,903 from the sale of assets, earnings from investments of$ t ,048, 172 and other income of $45,676. MINIMUM FUNDING STANDARDS An actuary's statements shows that enough money was contributed to the plan to keep it funded in accordance with the minimum funding standards of ERISA. YOUR RIGHTS TO ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Your have the right to receive a copy of the fu 11 annual report, or any pan thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: 1. An accountant's report, 2. Assets held for investment, 3. Actuarial information regarding the funding of the plan, 4. Service provider and trustee information and 5. Reportable transactions. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of Mr. Nick Marrone, the plan administrator, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746; telephone (301) 899-0675. The charge to cover copying costs will be $3.50forthe full annual reportor$.10 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and el{penses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan at 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, DC, or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests lo the Department should be addressed to: Public Disclosure Room, N4677, Pension and Welfare Benefit Programs, Deparunent of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20216. SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION In accordance with the Department of Labor Regulations the net realized gain of $247,903, as shown above, is computed on the "market-to-market basis"-the difference between the sales price and the market value of an asset as of January 1, 1993; or if the asset was both acquired and disposed of within the plan year, it is the difference between the purchase and sales price. Included in the net appreciation (depreciation) in fair market value of investments of $518,350, as shown on the financial statements, is $441,412 of the net realized gain-the difference between the sales price and the original cost of the assets. Hydraulics---Completing the October 25 course in hydraulics are David G. St Onge (center) and Paul Lightfoot (right) with their instructor, Dan Holden. �JANUARY 1995 23 SEAFARERS LOG LUNDEBERG SCHOOL 1995 UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE The following is the course schedule for classes beginning between January and April 1995 at the Seafarers Harty Lundeberg School of Seamanship located at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. All programs are geared to improve job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. The course schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and-in times of conflict-the nation's security. Please note that students should check in the Friday be/ore their course's start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. Deck Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Able Seaman January 16 April 7 Bridge Management (Sbiphandling) April 24 Mays Life boatman January 2 January 13 Radar Observer/Unlimited February27 April 10 March 10 April21 Steward Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Assistant Cook/Cook and Baker Chief Cook, Chief Steward January 17 March27 April 7 Junel6 Engine Upgrading Courses Start Date Course QMED ·Any Rating Diesel Engine Technology Refrigeration Technician Certification Hydraulics Marine Electrical Maintenance I Marine Electrical Maintenance II Power Plant Maintenance January 16 April 7 March 20 April 14 (to be announced) February 20 March24 February 17 January 9 March 13 April 21 February 17 January9 April 24 June2 Pumproom Maintenance March27 April 7 April 24 May19 Refrigerated Containers Welding February 20 March 17 April 24 May19 All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. Inland Courses All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. Safety Specialty Courses Course Date of Completion Course Start Date Date of Completion Start Date Date of Com letion Deck Inland March27 April 7 Diesel February27 March 10 March6 March 17 DDE/Limited License Prep. March27 April 7 January 26 February 23 March30 April27 January26 February 23 March30 April27 Engineroom Familiarization January30 February 10 Radar Observer (Rivers) (to be announced) Radar Observer (Inland) May8 January 2 January 30 .February 27 anuary February 24 March24 April 21 May19 March27 April 24 .;.;· .. ·.«. .,,.,/;"''':''""'·: .,.. , ,.,..,. ·•· Date of · Course Date Completion Bosun J{ecertification May1 Junes Steward Recertification January 30 March 6 May12 Additional Courses Start Course Date Date of Completion GED Preparation January30 April 21 Adult Basic Education (ABE) and English as a Second Language (ESL) January30 April 3 March24 May26 Deck and Engine Department COiiege Courses Session I January 30 March 24 --~---·----------------------------------------~--------------------------·························································-···················- UPGRADING APPLICATION Primary language spoken (Strccl) (City) (State;) (Zip Code) Date of Birth _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Telephone --'--~-----(Arc;a Code) With this application, COPIES of your discharges must be submitted showing sufficient time to qualify yourselffor the course(s) requested. You also must submit a COPY of each of the following: the first page ofyour union book indicating your department and seniority, your clinic card and the front and back of your z-card as well as your lundeberg School identification card listing the course(s) you have taken and completed. The Admissions Office WILL NOT schedule you until all of the above are received. (Month/DayfY car) Deep Sea Member D Inland Waters Member D Lakes Member D .· COURSE BEGIN DATE END DATE If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security # Book # _ _ _ __ _ _ __ Seniority U.S. Citizen: Department _ _ _ __ __ D Yes D No Home Port _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held _ _ _ __ _ __ _ _ _ _ __ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS trainee program? DYes DNo LAST VESSEL: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Rating: _ _ _ __ Date On: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Date O f f : - - - - - - - - - - SIGNATURE_~~-~------~DATE ~~~~~~~- If yes, class# _ __ __ _ __ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Have you attended any SHLSS upgrading courses? DYes DNo If yes, course(s) taken _ _ _ _ __ _ _ __ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ _ _ Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? D Yes D No Firefighting: D Yes D No CPR: D Yes DNo NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. RETURN COMPLETED APPLICATION TO: Lundeberg Upgrading Center, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674. 1/95 �SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORTS < > ~\t ,~ Seafarers Welfare Fund --Page20 MCS Supplemental Pension Plan -Page22 • ',.., ~. ' ~~ ' ~ Volume 57, Number 1 January 1995 Crescent's Tuckers Heed Call of the Sea Many Seafarers describe the SIU as being one big family. But for the Tucker family and Crescent Towing of Mobile, Ala., this is especially true, considering that tugboat captains (and brothers) Joe, William and Charles Tucker make up a part of SIU and Crescent Towing history which spans more than two decades. The Crescent tugs Ervin S. Cooper, Alabama and Admiral Jackson, often navigated by the Tucker brothers, are used for towing, shifting and docking vessels in the port of Mobile and surrounding areas off Mobile Bay. "It is a really good life," Joe told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG. "It is exciting work, with every job being different from the day before. Each day presents a new challenge for our tugs and crews to meet." The 59-year-old boatman began sailing in the deep sea division of the SIU in 1950 from the port of Mobile. As the first of the Tucker brothers to join the Seafarers, Joe sailed in the union's deep sea division in the deck department for 20 years with such companies as Waterman Steamship, Isthmian and Alcoa. Eventually, he transferred to the inland division to be closer to his home and family. Joe' s older brother, Charles, 61, also joined the union as a deep sea member in 1951. In 1967 he transferred his book to the inland division in Houston. Like Joe, Charles switched to inland work in order to be closer to his family. The youngest Tucker brother, William. 54, joined the SIU inland division in 1967 in the port of Houston. All three siblings are Mobile natives and began sailing aboard Crescent tugboats in November 1979 when the company first began operating in the port of Mobile. Continuity Is Key "We just began our fifteenth year of business in Mobile," Prentiss "Tadd" Willcutt, assistant vice president and general manager of Cresent Towing of Mobile, said. "What we are really proud of is that we started with the same four captains 15 years ago thac we still have aboard our tugs today-the Tucker brothers and Captain Pete Burns. In all these years, we have never missed a job, and I fully credit the excellent crews that make up Crescent Towing of Mobile," Willcutt stated. Joe, Charles and William are just the beginning of the Tucker line of Seafarers. Their dedication to the SIU, Cresent Towing and the maritime industry has influenced their sons and nephews to sign on with the union. Sons Join Too .- William's son, James Tucker, sails as a deckhand aboard the tugs, as does his nephew, Kyle Tucker. James and William's other nephew, Bo Tucker, recently earned their towboat captain's license and have been promoted by the company to the wheelhouse where they sail as relief captains. Bo recalls a trip to Pascagoula, Miss. aboard a Crescent tug with William. "I was pretty young for my first trip. The water was rough but it didn't take any of the joy Members of the Tucker family have worked aboard Crescent tugboats since the company began operations in Mobile 15 years ago. Pictured above, from left to right, (sitting) Captains Charles Tucker, Joe Tucker and (standing) William Tucker. Behind them, from the left, are Deckhan Pete Saranthus and Dennis Fillingim, Deckhand/Relief Captain Jamie Tucker, Deckhand Kyle Tucker, Engineer/Relief Captain Ronnie Walker and Deckhand/Relief Engineer Chris Walker. Standing in the back are Deckhand Roy Saranthus and Deckhand/Relief Captain Bo Tucker. away from me. That was the first time I really became interested in working on the water," stated Bo. "I still love just to sit with the waves and enjoy the trip and the job that lays ahead," Bo added. Following the lead of their stepfather, Joe Tucker, Deckhand Chris Walker and Engineer Ronnie Walker signed on with the company. Chris joined the union in 1990 in his native Mobile. He notes that going to work with his step-father, Joe, convinced him to go to sea. "I used to come down as a young kid and ride the tugs when he had a job to do. I loved it from the very beginning. It is an exciting job that changes day to day," recalled Chris. His brother, Ronnie, who joined the Seafarers eight years ago, said, "I love my job. The union, the company, the other guys, they are all great. I love the sea, and that is the most important reason why I am here." Challenging Work Describing what makes his job a challenge, Joe said, "The port of Mobile is very unique. The slips and the waterway itself are very narrow. We must maneuver in tight spots and close quarters. This takes excellent skills and experience, and the SIU members on board our tugs have all that." He noted that winds and currents often present problems for the tugs when they meet a ship and escort it into the harbor. "There are other times when a ship might come out of the slip and simply lose its engines. We have to maneuver it so that it doesn't hit anything. Boy, that's challenging work," the boatman noted. Joe added that because of the confined space, the propeller of the vessel that the tugboat is assisting is sometimes 10 feet from the tug's bow. "If seas are rough, we can almost watch the ship bounce up on our deck. It gets scary, but it definitely keeps us on our toes," he said. "Docking a vessel is very dangerous work and takes skilJed and seasoned seamen. Our guys have what it takes," stated Mobile Port Agent Dave Carter, who provided the photo accompanying this article. The tugs do all the shiphandling from the Mobile Harbor to the sea buoy where the channel begins. Safety First The boatmen aboard the Crescent tugboats conduct safety drills at least every two weeks, depending on the work schedule. "We are very safety conscious and use every precaution necessary to get the job done," Joe said. "I attribute our safe tugs to the experienced seamen who crew them. We try hard to keep our record safe and free of problems," Joe added. "The SIU truly looks out for the safety and welfare of the members. It is a unique organization, and I am proud to be SIU. Who would have ever thought that so many members of my family would make a living out of doing something that we all love so much," the captain concluded. Crescent Towing also operates ship docking tugs in New Orleans and Savannah, Ga. ' Help Locate Seafarer Campbell's Daughter Inland member Tom M. Campbell and his college books. Additionally, sometime after wife, Sam Soon, are asking the Seafarers Inter- April 25, 1988, someone turned in a maroonnational Union membership to assist them in colored woman's purse to the Crockett County locating their daughter, Elizabeth Ann Sheriffs office in Ozona, Texas. This purse is Campbell, who was abducted April 25, 1988 considered to be a valuable lead in the case, and the while returning home from an person who found and turned in the purse should contact one of after-school job in Killeen, the telephone numbers below. Texas. She was last seen at a The disappearance of 7-11 store in Copperas Cove, Elizabeth Ann Campbell was Texas. At the time of her disapfeatured on the television show pearance, when she was 20 "America's Most Wanted" on years old, the brown-eyed, September 25, 1988, and on brown-haired young woman "Unsolved Mysteries" on was 5 ft. 2 in. tall and weighed November 22, 1989 and again around 100 pounds. She has a on May 16, 1990. 1" horizontal scar under her Anyone having information chin and a 1" horizontal scar on on the whereabouts of Tom top of her head under her bangs. Campbell's daughter should When she disappeared, contact Sgt. Danny Austin of Elizabeth was wearing the Copperas Cove (Texas) bluejeans, white tennis shoes, a Police Department at (817) white t-shirt and was carrying a 547-4273 or Tom Campbell at dull lemon jacket, a 7-11 Elizabeth Ann Campbell (817) 634-0324. smock with her name tag and � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 1990-1999 Description An account of the resource Volumes LII-LXI Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993; Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource January 1995 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES IN BUDGET-CUTTING MOVE, CLINTON SEEKS TO PARE DOT AND MOVE MARAD FUNCTIONS COURT NIXES PORTION OF SEAMAN TAX JUDGE RULES ON SIU’S LAWSUIT AGAINST Z-CARDS/LICENSE FEES MARITIME TO MOVE TO HOUSE DEFENSE PANEL REPUBLICANS SPLIT MERCHANT MARINE COMMITTEE JURISDICTION SHIPPING OMITTED FROM GATT LABOR OPPOSES WORLD TRADE ACCORD TANKER OWNERS RUSH TO MEET FINANCIAL REGS IMO MARINER CERTFICATION PACT SLATED FOR UPDATING IN 1995 RIVERBOAT WORKERS REAFFIRM SIU REPRESENTATION LAKERS’ WINTER SEASON IS EXTENDED THROUGH JANUARY SEAFARERS TB TESTING PROGRAM GOES INTO ‘95 LIKE SON, LIKE MOTHER? PAUL HALL CENTER AGAIN EXPANDS TRAINING FLEET JACKSONVILLE SIU HALL TO HOST REFRIG. CERTIFICATION COURSE NORFOLK AND PHILLY HALLS CONDUCT RADAR CLASSES COURT: USCG MUST REDO Z-CARD, LICENSE FEES FIRE ON THE CHOCTAW MEMORIES OF A 1963 SHIPBOARD BLAZE GEM STATE CREW FLAWLESSLY EXECUTES FIRST RRF BOXED AMMO DRILL 1994: SEAFARERS AGAIN ANSWERED NATION’S CALL CRESCENT’S TUCKERS HEED CALL OF THE SEA Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 01/01/1995 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 57, No. 1 1995 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/aa933f6dfb4ef8f090a3da383eade1fa.PDF 23deb978dd5a6b5a0428f26dcd8f63fe PDF Text Text /, , \v , ' ' • •>.':. , o' ' '-•Vy';'.. *• «. 1995 lundeberg School Guide LUNDEBEM SCHOOL * •'V;';-- •- J [Krtc-r cj-rt April 7 •• D»l«of C-jWsa. Si e-«!5- Si. Pages 15-18 f-.. OFHCIALORGAN OF THE SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION • ATUNTIC GULF, LAKES AND INUND WATERS DISTRIQ • AFKIO . lamsn 1* k-M Anril? • i.auiisuit of SlU FOR THB ERSTIE|H|fcl8TRXCT ||||| PISHBRMBM'E *>0^* OP POINT PLBABROT 57 Channel Drive point Pleasant Beach, N(908) 099-1697 ^PjfeS :ra>c/)5>o |H Fish Gpoups OCM»JO.^ HCa wnAm—r" O—I (/I 2J>X-i s:rnt/>HH:x> -I30 iyiaZLO 08742 BBLPORD SBAPOOD CO-OP^TIVB OF BELPORD, NEW JERSEY 1 Main street Belford, N.J- 07718 (908) 787-6509 t/) •>imr>rnz om>o •P" arn 00 03:0 LD o WRNCHE8E FISH VIRGINIA, NOR' AND MA88ACHD8B 48 water 8tr Hampton, VA (804) 722-14 . - 'f' *<5x.v, •. Wi. a~o o HI- -a acm BWtMSM HITEiaa-riOMM- OMIO" 5201 Auth way Camp 8prings, MD (301) 899-0675 /; Plaintiffs } , i'%^' ••N •f- ?•" I'zlil. V-'v;, :. ; • . ; v:. Juclg$ Orders Gov't Agency loi Up Quota of Flounder noHALD H. BROWN, secretary of Commerce " c'onstituUon^.v.n» Washington I Defendant. Pages -••'sf >•1 Union Offers GOP Takes Radar Course Control of For Boatmen House, Senate Tug Navigators Must Hold USCG Certification by Feb. 15 :>• ;• tf. Effect of November Election On Maritime Is Uncertain Pages (Reason s Greetings Page 3 Holiday Messages From SICI Members Asea and i4shore Pag^s 1fi-22 •:; , ,;:;g �2 S2A¥MBRS10G A'-'-.-. . • DECEMBER 1994 President's Report KesM fyvw Pnlsedby Navy Our Eye Is on the Ball For some, a change in agendas may be in order after the results of last month's election in which the Democratic majority in Con­ gress was replaced by a Republican majority in both the House and Senate. But for maritime, our goal is the same: legislation that will ensure the United States has sufficient shipping capacity under the American flag to meet the nation's sealift needs in times of con­ flict and maintain a strong presence in the world shipping trades in times of peace. We have always worked with elected offi­ cials from both parties in our efforts to secure laws and government programs that increase America's merchant shipping. That will not change. However, we recognize that our job is made Michael Sacco more difficult by the fact that there are so many new members of Congress. Elected for the first time on November 8 were 86 representatives and 11 senators. This means the SIU and the maritime industry have a big education function to perform. The SIU looks forward to working with the new mem­ bers of Congress and informing them of the nature of our industry and its importance to the national interest. The union will be counting on all of its members, both active and retired, and their families^ to continue to assist in the efforts to secure a maritime revitalization program next year. And, the union, through the Seafarers LOG, membership meetings and visits of union officials to SlU-contracted vessels, will keep Seafarers informed on the deliberations of the Congress on all is­ sues which concern the livelihoods of American seamen. For Barge Ihntsfer fljperafKMt The American Kestrel \s pictured during barge transfer operations which took place In Diego Garcia. Seafarers aboard the Captain Bartlett and his officers, required in disconnecting and prepositioning ship American as well as Steward Chris Clan- reconnecting the cargo care sys­ Kestrel recently were com­ ton and his assistants (Chief tem, operating the ship's gear and mended by the U.S. Navy for Cook Marco Maffiolo and handling barges in the water," their timely and efficient work Steward Assistant Fred Burton, Nette wrote. "Additionally, the ship's crew during a barge transfer operation Jr.), in the preparation of an out­ went out of their way in hosting a in Diego Garcia which took place standing, delicious lunch." Christopher Nette, senior port luncheon for all involved in the in August and September. Navy Captain R.B. Lanning captain for Osprey-Acomarit, of­ operation." The Kestrel is a barge-carrier praised Captain Christopher fered similar praise in a letter to (also known as a lighter-aboardBartlett and the entire crew in a the Seafarers LOG. letter tp Osprey-Acomarit Ship "The crew was very coopera­ ship or LASH vessel) operated by Management, Inc., which tive while working alongside the MSC and based in Diego Garcia. operates the Kestrel for the government personnel. This was Like other prepositioning vessels, Navy's Military Sealift Com­ in spite of long hours of work the Kestrel remains fully loaded mand (MSC). Lanning noted the so that it may sail in support of exceptional support" of Kestrel American troops immediately personnel during the operation, after activation. which "was conducted safely, Seafarers who crew A Competitive Advantage without incident and completed prepositioning vessels and other As American-flag ships compete with foreign operations, it is ahead of schedule." sealift ships must have manpower vital that each and every Seafarer ensure he or she is a most Lanning added that the skills that are keyed to operations productive, efficient, safety-conscience crewmember. Kestrel's hosting of a shipboard unique to military ships. They In this regard, I urge all Seafarers to take full advantage of the tour and luncheon for dignitaries receive specialized training in Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education and its Lun- rom a Naval support facility sealift operations at the Paul Hall deberg School. Throughout the year, the school offers Seafarers 'and other military and key Center's Harry Lundeberg courses which lead to increased skills and detailed knowledge of civilian team members involved School of Seamanship in Piney new shipboard technology. in this project was an added touch Point, Md. Lundeberg School in­ in enhancing cooperation and structors also periodically con­ The Lundeberg School is doing its part to ensure that Seafarers confidence between us and other duct shipboard training on the Chief Cook Marco Maffiolo helps are exposed to the changes within the industry. Next year, the commands. We wish to thank sealift vessels. prepare a special meal. school will offer a new power plant maintenance course for engine department Seafarers. All SIU members who sail on tankers will Texas Comes Home from Haiti Seafarers aboard the Cape have an opportunity to take a tanker operation/safety class. There Texas recently returned to the are eight new classes for inland boatmen. Many of the traditional port of Mobile, Ala., following courses have been expanded to include more hands-on training ex­ their participation in support of ercises. U.S. military operations in Haiti. On other pages of this Seafarers LOG, Seafarers can read about The Texas v/as one of eight SIUthe new courses and go over the 1995 training schedule. All crewed Ready Reserve Force Seafarers should look over this material and make plans to (RRF) ships which were broken upgrade their skills in 1995. When Seafarers become more skilled, Operations Maintain out for not only does it benefit American shipping, but also it means in­ Democracy/Uphold Democracy. creased earning potential for Seafarers who move up the career lad­ der in their respective shipboard departments. Pictured from left are GUDE Carl Turner and Best Holiday Wishes to All Bosun Millard Napier. During this time of holidays, I offer my sincere good wishes to all our union brothers and sisters and their families, and our pen­ sioners and their families as well. I hope you have a happy holiday season and a new year filled with good health. Volume 56, Number 12 December 1994 The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 0160-2047) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District; AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Second-class postage paid at MSG Prince Geor­ ges, MD 20790-9998 and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. In compliance with the Statement of Ownership, Management and Circulation (required by 39 U.S.C. 3685), PS Form 3526, October 1994, the following infor­ mation is published in the December 1994 edition of the Seafarers LOG: (The first number will reflect the average number of copies of each issue during the preceding 12 months; the number in parentheses will be the actual number of copies of single issues published nearest to the filing date.) Net press run—49,280 (49,000); mail subscriptions (paid or requested)—34,631 (34,693); other free copies— 13,648 (12,368); total distribution—48,279 (47,061); copies not distributed (for office use)—1,001 (1,939); total^9,280 (49,000). Managing Editor, Daniel Duncan; Associate Editors,/ordan Biscardo and Corrina Christensen Gutierrez; As­ sociate Editor/Production, Deborah A. Hirtes; Art, Bill Brewer; Administrative Support, Jeanne Textor. Recertified Steward Tobe Dansley grates cheese for a meal aboard the Texas (pictured In back­ ground). At work In the englneroom are (from left) QMED Alvin Bur­ roughs, GUDE Carl Turner and Chief Electrician Dan Manthel. �;-''4S<i-£ •--r--f---<-'*--;- 1994 SEAFABERS LOS 3 Lawsuit of Sill, Fishermen's Groups Resujis in 16% iMero Fieunder Quota Federal District Judge Orders Government to Increase 1994Allotment Fishermen, who have long felt that the government has been unnecessarily working to put them out of business, won a major victory last month when a federal district judge ordered an increase by 16 percent in the amount of summer flounder that can be caught in 1994. As a result fishermen working along the Atlantic coast will be able to land an additional 3 million pounds of summer flounder before the end of the year. The quota established by the government earlier in 1994 allowed commercial fishermen to this year catch 16 million pounds of summer flounder, which also is called "fluke." In his decision, filed with the court on November 4, Judge Robert G. Doumar of the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia ordered that the "1994 summer flounder commercial quota be invalidated to the extent that it is less than 19.05 million pounds." Quota Is Reset Judge Doumar ordered the Department of Commerce to reset the quota "in a manner consistent" with his opinion. The Department of Commerce is the parent agency of the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), the arm of the government charged with manag­ ing the nation's fisheries resources. On November 25, the Department of Commerce published a notice in the Federal Register that the quota had been increased to 19.05 million pounds for 1994. The judge's decision was a result of a lawsuit filed by the SIU, two fishermen's groups and a fishing company. The lawsuit, filed April 5, after the 1994 commercial fishing quota for fluke was announced, charged that the government had arbitrarily established the quota at a level 16 percent below what the best data available indicated as appropriate. 'Worst Case'Assumptions The SIU and the fishing groups, the lawsuit's plain­ tiffs, said the government had used unsubstantiated "worst case" assumptions about the amount of flounder stock and the species' ability to regenerate. They also argued that the setting of the quota in this way violated the Magnuson Fishery Conservation and Management Act, enacted in 1976, which establishes the criteria for managing American fisheries, among which is balancing conservation interests with the need to maintain an American fisheries industry. The 1994 quota establishing how much fluke could be landed by fishermen along the Atlantic coast was deter­ mined in a NMFS management plan issued earlier in the year. The fluke management plan, which was largely coordinated by the Mid-Atlantic Fisheries Management Council, is known as Amendment 2. Amendment 2 requires that a Summer Flounder Monitoring Committee, a group made up of repre­ sentatives of different fisheries management bodies, make recommendations to the Mid-Atlantic Fisheries Management Council on the level of allowable catch of summer flounder. The monitoring committee relies on data from NMFS scientists and staff. Under federal regulations, the Summer Flounder Monitoring Conunittee must determine a quota level likely to achieve a fishing mortality rate of 0.53 during F»<l«ral "r'.'VV; t Vol. 59. No. 228 / FrMsy. NovMnber 25. 1994 OEPAmMB(r OFCOMMERCE NMional OcMnic aid Atmo saCFRFMEtS OookMNe. tMgS»-4»l;LO. llltMq AOnar: IMioail Moiiia:. Snviai (NMFS). NMMMj Atmofphartc Commvot. ACnoN; NiMilatliB of conmw^ SUMUfiT; NMFS issues this document (o ftUQOUocB CO In the coouMRdjd quote forthe 1904 summer Qoui^ler fiebeiy. The inteot of (his docunumtlsto comply with an Opinion •nnd Order issued by District Court fudge ^Robert Doumar. directing NMFS to reset ;the quou equal to 19.05 million IbQjgfr # this dbroa^ adeiSM thai a quota adfustauutt hat beeiL And iiriiMniflOwpuMcdf moitJao* (0 qiulu atawlniwd lUiad^MnMnt AAA Miidt «tW- ^onto toued by IRobert Douin". Itha Qiiota equal to ,1,1 Following the judge's order supporting the position of the SIU and three fishing groups, the government increased the amount of fluke that can be caught in 1994 by 3 million pounds. the years 1993 through 1995. Fishing mortality rates (as opposed to natural mortality rates) are based on stock size, meaning the fish's population, and are used by fishery managers to judge whether harvest levels are too high or low. Stock size, in turn, is estimated by statistical methods since it is impossible to directly count fish. These rates are simply an index measuring the amount of fish removed by human beings from that fish's stock. ; Continued on page 10 House, Senate Shift to RepidtHcan Ikmtml To Date, Effect of November Elections on Maritime Is Uncertain As a result of the ballots cast in the nation's November 8 general election, the Republican party took control of boA cham­ bers of the U.S. Congress for the first time in 40 years. When the 104th Congress convenes in January, Republicans will hold a 230-seat majority in the House (out of 435 positions) and a 53seat majority in the 100-member Senate. Around the country, 52 House seats switched from Democratic to Republican hands and the voting public elected 21 Republican Senators, bringing that party's total in the Senate to 52. That number was increased to 53 when Senator Richard C. Shel­ by (Ala.) switched his party af­ filiation. Recognition of Maritime The effect on U.S. shipping that will result from the change in Congress' majority party remains unclear. This largely stems from the fact that there are so many new members of Congress who are unfamiliar with the role of the American merchant marine in the nation's economic interests and national security. There are 86 new House members and 11 freshmen Senators. Also key will be the stand of the House and Senate leadership on maritime matters. Despite the uncertainties facing the maritime industry, it is clear that large numbers of con­ gressmen and senators from both parties have understood the need for a strong U.S. shipping ^capability in times of war and the importance of having a vital presence in the nation's oceango­ ing commerce. After the general election, speaking for the SIU, union presi­ dent Michael Sacco noted. "Maritime matters are a bipar­ tisan issue. Nothing changes in our direction and objectives." He said the union has "always worked with elected officials in both parties" and that it will con­ tinue to do so. Change of Chairmanships In December, House mem­ bers, divided into the caucuses of each party, will elect a speaker, majority and minority leaders, and majority and minority whips. Senators also will vote for majority and minority leaders and whips. The positions of most commit­ tee chairmen in both chambers also technically are elected, but often those slots actually are determined by seniority. In the House, Newt Gingrich (R-Ga.) is expected to take over as speaker, succeeding Thomas S. Foley (D-Wash.), who lost his bid for re-election. Richard A. Gephardt (D-Mo.) likely will be the new minority leader. On the Senate side, Robert Dole (R-Kan.) will be the new majority leader. House Panel on Block It is likely that the new leader­ ship of the House will seek to reorganize the way that legisla­ tive body works. Those in favor of reorganizing the House have proposed reducing the number of standing committees from 22 to either 17 or 18. Among the com­ mittees the Republican House members have suggested con­ solidating with other panels is that of Merchant Marine and Fisheries, which has existed for 107 years, since 1887. The SIU has fought similar proposals in the past. In the early '70s, there was a move to abolish the House Merchant Marine and Fisheries Committee, hut the proposal did not succeed. Any reorganization plans will not he finished until early January, hut there is talk that Mer­ chant Marine and Fisheries' over­ sight of U.S. Coast Guard, inland waterways and cargo preference issues will shift to the Public Works and Transportation Com­ mittee (which probably will he chaired by Pennsylvania Republican Bud Shuster). Oversight of the Ready Reserve Force (RRF) and Nation­ al Deferise Reserve Fleet (NDRF) likely will he transferred to the Armed Services Committee. Rep. Floyd Spence (R-S.C.) probably will chair that committee. Meanwhile, fisheries issues, environmental responsibilities and oceanography issues appear headed for the Natural Resources Committee. Republican Don Young of Alaska is expected to chair that committee. In the event that the House Merchant Marine and Fisheries Committee is not one of those consolidated. Rep. Herbert H. Bateman (R-Ya.) probably will he its chairman. On the Senate side, merchant marine already is a subcommittee of a committee with a larger man­ date: the Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee. That committee will he headed by Larry Pressler (R-S.D.), who would succeed Ernest Hollings (D-S.C.). The Merchant Marine Subcommittee likely will he chaired by Trent Lott (R-Miss.), who would succeed Louisiana Democrat John Breaux in that post. A Priority: U.S. Ship Bill President Clinton recently reaffirmed his commitment to work with the 104th Congress to get a maritime hill enacted. In a statement released on October 19, he insisted that "Congress still must act to ensure a maritime vV- ,v; Continued on page 9 Uahm's Aamuaces iKeiKhr Fa^mmed Courses The Seafarers Harry Lundeherg School of Seamanship, lo­ cated at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., has an­ nounced its vocational upgrading schedule for 1995. The schedule features a num­ ber of new courses, including a tanker operation/safety class which is available to all Seafarers and a power plant maintenance course for members who sail in the engine department. Additionally, eight new clas­ ses—including radar observer/in­ land—are open to members who sail in the inland division. All of the new courses are structured to emphasize hands-on training, complemented by class­ room instruction. Similarly, the able-bodied seaman (AB) class, the fireman/watertender and oiler class (FOWT) and the chief cook class have been expanded to in­ clude even more practical train­ ing. "The new classes and the ex­ panded courses, along with those which remain in place from pre­ vious years, are designed to give members the best possible preparation for the jobs they do on ships and on boats," said Jim Shaffer, vocational director of the Lundeberg School. "The im­ provements in the 1995 schedule are the result of changing needs within the industry, feedback from students and instructors, and input from SlU-contracted com­ panies," he added. The Lundeberg School's new' The tanker operation/safety classes emphasize hands-on ex­ course was developed in response ercises such as the one pictured in which a Seafarer prac­ Continued on page 6 above tices using a breathing apparatus. •1 r-i'- : v-.-P �4 DECEMRER1994 SEAFARERS LOG "By cobbling together whiffs of comments from unidentifiec sources, the agency alleges that crewmembers aboard the sealift tankers were 'unqualified, 'inexperienced' and lacking in 'character,"' the SIU statement says. training session to prepare a per­ son for the rigors of shipboard work and life," states the SIU response The SIU document charged that the GAG had confused "inex­ perienced" personnel withseamen in entry-level ratings. The union points out that entry-level seamen—such as wipers, or­ dinaries and steward assistants have important shipboard functions and their work makes the higher rated seamen more productive and better able to turn their attention to the more com­ plex shipboard tasks. Root of Problem: Turnover Agency Defames Seamen SlU ReMes Allegations On QuallRcaOmis of Seaim Tankers' Crews The SIU charged that a report issued by the General Accounting Office (GAG) on the Military Sealift Command's privately operated sealift tankers gives the impression that the ships' seamen have peg legs, hooks for arms, eye patches and nefarious back­ grounds. "Nothing could be further from the truth. The seamen aboard these vessels are professional mariners who have been, and are, perform­ ing admirably, under difficult cir­ cumstances," states the SIU response to the GAG report, dated November 11, which was sub­ mitted to the Senate Subcommit­ tee on Oversight of Government Management. /.y. •J-'.-'"'''"'••,•'*•. '•^; The GAG report also senThe problems with the sealift sationalistically states that it found tankers started at the inception o' a large pool of convicted felons the IMC contract with MSG in working aboard the sealift tankers 1990 when the vessels were turned and that this shows a character over in decrepit condition, notes deficiency among crewmembers. the SIU document. The situation continued With MSC's failure to To arrive at this conclusion, the provide adequate funding for the GAG did a criminal records check of658 seamen on thetankships. The necessary upgrading. "These problems largely have agency found that "about 178" had been surmounted by the skilled felony convictions in their back­ Poor Contract Administration seamen aboard the vessels whose grounds. SIU blasts the GAG report The GAG investigated the endeavors have kept the ships forThe maligning crewmembers, operating safely and productively operation of the nine sealift labeling the agency's remarks as in behalf of the military," the SIU tankers of the Military Sealift irresponsible" and "inhumane." Command (MSC) for the Senate statement points out. The union's statement points out Oversight Subcommittee. An in­ the database most likely used vestigative unit of the Congress, Seafarers Eminently Qualified that >y the GAG was known to be in­ the GAG issued a report in Oc­ The union refuted the GAG's accurate, so inaccurate that its data tober stating that lax oversight by claim of certain unqualified is not admissible as evidence in a the Navy agency of its contract seamen by noting that Coast of law. with a private shipping company Guard regulations, union proce­ court The GAG also failed to take to operate the ships had resulted in dures and the training available to into consideration the fact that the unsafe and poorly maintained crewmembers ensure a shipowner Coast Guard, should it determine ships. a qualified individual for a ship­ that a felony conviction makes an On October 12, the subcommit­ board job. individual unsuited for a job as a Additionally, the union sub­ mariner, can revoke, suspend or tee held a hearing on the GAO's report in which representatives from mitted firsthand testimony of simply not issue a merchant the GAG, U.S. Coast Guard, MSC many crewmembers which mariner document or license to a and International Marine Carriers demonstrates that the seamen seaman, thereby preventing that (IMC), the ships' current operating aboard the tankships have jerson from obtaining employ­ company, presented data on the ves­ employed extraordinary skills, ment on a U.S.-flag ship. sels. Senator Carl Levin (D-Mich.), smarts, ingenuity and knowledge who chairs the subcommittee also to mitigate or eliminate potential Fixing the Process provided a record of the ships' problems. "If, in fact, the crews problems. The SIU's statement was had really been unqualified, the The SIU document also states submitted to the subcommittee as vessels would not be operating that the union's interest is not today," notes the SIU report. part of the hearing's record. imited to crew performance. The SIU is concerned with the entire Entry-Level Seamen are Key Insinuations Must Be Negated jrocess by which the government Like the GAG's unsubstan­ awards contracts to private comIn the SIU's document, the tiated remarks about "un­ ranies, many of which are union acknowledges that the main qualified" seamen, the agency's mployers of Seafarers, the thrust of the GAG investigation and report is the MSC's contract allegations about "inexperienced" union's submission reads. crewmembers also fail to provide enforcement process. With this in mind, the union's But, as the union which repre­ any specifics. Answering the fol­ document puts forward a number sents the men and women who lowing statement by the GAG in­ of recommendations for enhanc­ work aboard the sealift tankers in vestigators, "[T]wo crewmembers ing the MSC's subcontracting unlicensed positions, the SIU feels advised us that this was their first jrocess and avoiding the kinds of it is vitally important that the ship," the SIU report notes, "There jroblems that have occurred with GAG's aspersions of crewmem- is a first time for everybody and the sealift tankers. The SIU sug­ bers be refuted. The union that in itself is not a disqualifica­ gests that an MSC contract proposal can be designed to believes that the agency's unsub­ tion." Actually, "individuals who balance cost with performance in stantiated misstatements and innuendos about American seamen ship through the SIU, before ever such a way as to yield the govern­ must be corrected," states the SIU boarding a vessel, complete an in­ ment the "best value" for its dol­ tensive orientation and hands-on lars. submission. MarAd Allows APL to Flag-Out Six New Ships the United States of a dependable, skilled shipboard workforce that is available in times of crisis, the union presidents' statement said, "It is a sad day for the United States, indeed, when six new vessels of an American company are designated to sail under a foreign flag provid­ ing an escape from U.S. wages, taxes and safety standards." The presidents of the five unions stated that maritime labor would "remain undeterred" in its "purpose of securing a national shipping bill Unions Opposed Move in the coming session of Congress The SIU's Pacific District that will guarantee America a U.S.unions had registered their strong flag fleet that befits the nation's opposition to the granting of a status as the world's superpower." waiver in numerous communica­ Transfer to U.S. Registry tions submitted to the Maritime Ad­ The waiver granted by the ministration. The Pacific District unions, Maritime Administration imposed which include the Sailors' Union of several conditions, chief among the Pacific, the Marine Firemen's them that APL must apply to in­ Union and the SIU's Atlantic, Gulf, clude the six ships in any new sub­ Lakes and Inland Waters District, sidy program that is enacted by. are now reviewing all possible Congress and signed into law by the courses of action that the organiza­ president. MarAd also reserved the tions might take in protest of APL's right to modify the waiver at any time. lagging out move. Additionally, the ships can only APL Abandons U.S. Workers operate where APL has existing Immediately after MarAd's an­ service. APL's waiver application nouncement of the granting of the indicated that the ship's would waiver, five presidents of unions operate in the transpacific trades representing sea-going labor issued between California ports and a statement denouncing the Japan, Taiwan and Hong Kong. decision. "American seafaring None of the subsidy funding which workers and their maritime unions APL receives can accrue to the tiave worked long and hard in sup­ benefit of its foreign-flag ships. The agency of the Department port of legislation that would have been beneficial to American ship­ of Transportation also stated that ping companies and the nation's each vessel must be registered under a ship registry which is con­ economic and security interests. "In contrast; the profitable sidered to be under "effective U.S. American President Lines has control" ("EUSC"). (This is a policy dating back to demonstrated a lack of faith in Amierica's future by hauling down the days after World War II, when the American flag and replacing it the U.S. government allowed much with that of a runaway registry. of the American tonnage built for Nevertheless, while abandoning the war effort to be transferred American woricers, APL executives overseas. In 1948, after supporters will continue to enjoy all of the of runaway-flag shipping prevailed benefits the United States has to upon the Department of Defense, offer," said the communication of the theory of effective U.S. control union presidents Joel Bem (District was developed. It supposedly I-Marine Engineers Beneficial As­ means that ships registered under sociation), Timothy A. Brown (Inter­ certain flags are somehow linked to national Organization of Masters, America's national security inter­ Mates & Pilots), Louis Parise (Dis­ ests. The registers with this trict 4-NMU/MEBA), Michael mysterious tie are Panama, Liberia, McKay (American Maritime Of­ Honduras, Bahamas and Marshall Islands.) ficers) and Michael Sacco (SIU). Noting that the move deprives Continued on page 13 The Maritime Administration will allow American President Lines (APL) to operate the six con tainerships it is building under foreign flags, the agency an nounced on November 15. APL had applied for a waiver of the Merchant Marine Act of 1936 which prohibits American shipping companies receiving government subsidies from operating foreign flag ships in essential U.S.-flag ser­ vice routes. It's Sea Story Swapping Time for MCS Pensioners Each September on the West Coast, a picnic is held for former members of the Marine Cooks and Stewards, SIU members and their friends and families. Anywhere from 125 to 150 people usually attend the festive outing, grateful for the chance to get reacquainted with one another and eager to swap old sea stories. Pictured above are some of this year's participants, including Peggy Arnold, Jimmie Terrell, Sam Boykin, , ."ii r Henri Planu, Dave Lononecher, Vic Vicery, Tony Mercado, Nancy Cooper, Ann Hall, Josephine Maule, Margie Todd, Doreen Stranger, Estelle Deal, Ken Oshinaka, Bill Grirtistead, MarUau, Edward Hirrita, Mary Jane Carpenter, Monica Lindsy, Inez Wood and Mildred Nishimura. The photo was sent to the Seafarers LOG bv Viroinia Martin and Betty Hollaway. �''i DECEMBER 1994 "i SEJD'ARERS LOG Rescue in the Pacific Seafarers aboard the MV 1st and Bolton commended the crew Lt. Baldomero Lopez last month for its work during these opera­ came to the aid of 40 people tions. "They did their profes­ whose small island in the Pacific sional best during flight quarters, was devastated by Typhoon chocking and chaining the helo, Zelda. offloading what little gear the is­ In a letter to the Seafarers landers brought with them and LOG, Lopez Captain Harry Bol­ guiding them to the bridge," he ton recounted how the crew wrote. helped perform a rescue in rough "The steward department had seas involving U.S. Navy a nice, hot meal waiting" for all helicopters at the island of the evacuees, the letter continued. Anatahan, 65 miles north of "By the way they put the Guam in the Mariana Islands. groceries away, you could tell A number of children were they were hungry." among those taken from Chief Mate Robert Boes gave Anatahan to Saipan following the the islanders some preventive destructive storm. Amazingly, no treatment for seasickness, since praise than the preservation of Carolyn Thifault, Barbeau, one from Anatahan was hurt the conditions still were rough, human life achieved through the Chief Cook Kenneth Whitfield, during the typhoon, which wiped and the exhausted group of storm selfless dedication and Cook/Baker Guy Prescott, and out virtually all of the man-made refugees turned in early while the courageous actions of these SAs Idos, Rose McCants, structures and vegetation there. vessel headed for Saipan. professionals," he wrote. Suzanne Van Schoor and DarAdditionally, Rear Admiral rinMcCabe. The entire crew of the Lopez, Finally, Calm Seas Prepositioning ships are stock­ which is under the direction of the "The next morning, the seas David L. Brewer, commander U.S. Navy's Military Sealift were calm, our new friends were U.S. Naval Forces/Marianas, told ed with all the necessary equip­ Command (MSC) and operated well-rested and the steward the crew that he noted "with ex­ ment and supplies to support an by American Overseas Marine department had a delicious break­ treme pride the timely, superb early rapid deployment of am­ Corp. (Amsea), received praise fast waiting for them," Bolton support you provided in the phibious U.S. Marine expedition­ from several MSC officials for its recalled. "You've never seen so humanitarian evacuation .... ary brigades. They operate in key Your unselfish and professional strategic locations throughout the TOP LEFT: Crewmembers per­ effort. few eat so much." form helo operations on the deck response to the call for assistance world. The Lopez, a prepositioning Later that morning, the is­ Of the Baldomero Lopez. Seafarers who crew the ship, was returning to Saipan on landers were flown by helicopter quickly brought the storm victims November 4, following evasive to shore at Saipan. "After they to safety while demonstrating the prepositioning ships receive spe­ maneuvers to avoid the typhoon. left, Deck/Maintenance Jeff spirit of service to fellow citizens cial sealift training at the Paul MIDDLE: Deck/Maintenance Jeff Shortly after noon, MSC con­ Moritz retold a story an islander we share in the maritime service." Hall Center's Lundeberg School Mortiz (foreground, squatting) as­ Seafarers aboard the 1st Lt. in Piney Point, Md., and oc­ sists the island children with their tacted the vessel and advised that told him the night before," said Baldomero Lopez during these casionally on board the vessels protective safety gear. the Lopez might be needed for a Bolton. "The islander said the operations were Bosun Gerald themselves, due to the unique re­ nearby rescue. wind was blowing very hard from Kelly, ABs Eugene Scandurra, quirements of working aboard the "The next call was from the the west, tearing down their huts vessels. The training covers BOTTOM: SA Suzanne Van David, Chrlstopber Robert U.S. Coast Guard emergency and trees. Then it was perfectly helicopter operations, forklift Schoor (foreground, standing) Kalinowski, Robert Borden, center, outlining the rescue mis­ clear for a couple of hours. Then maneuvers, crane operation, un­ helps feed the kids and other is­ Ronald Zurek and Thomas sion," wrote Bolton, who also they saw the massive, dark wall derway replenishment, damage landers who were rescued. Parisi, Moritz, Electrician Wil­ provided the photographs accom­ coming at them from the east. control familiarization, search liam A most. Pumpman Robert panying this article. "We learned "They huddled in the only and rescue boat operations and Rudd, QMEDs George Hender­ there were 40 island natives remaining building as the son and Mark Freeman, GDEU more. without food, water or shelter." typhoon blasted away at the is­ The Lopez arrived at Anatahan land, destroying everything else a few hours later and began work­ that remained.... As luck would The helicopter landing team (from left) coInelilicLotSAing in conjunction with two Navy have it, no one got hurt. No one, Dan Idos, AS Bob Borden, AB Tom Parisi, AB Gene helicopters which had arrived including the islanders, could fig­ Scandurra, Bosun Gerry Kelly, Deck/Maintenance Jeff separately. The first helicopter ure that out after seeing the devas­ Moritz, AB Ron Zurek and AB Chris Kalinowski. landed on deck within a half- tation." Bolton declared that the "en­ hour. tire crew performed brilliantly 'Traumatized' Children and opened their hearts to the is"We were surprised to see so many children come off the helo," anders." Praised by Navy noted the captain. "They looked He was far from alone in his haggard, typhoon-traumatized, and landing on a huge ship from )raise. Admiral Richard C. a big, noisy helo wasn't helping 4acke, commander in chiefAJ.S. vlavy Pacific Command, in a con­ matters. "But once they got inside the gratulatory communication sent bridge and saw the friendly faces to the Lopez, described the rescue of the crew, they relaxed. Chief as "a textbook example of how to Steward Bruce Barbeau and execute an immediate response Steward Assistant Dan Idos took operation." Admiral R.J. Zlatoper, com­ them to their berthing area to get them settled in and then guided mander in chief/U.S. Navy 'acific Fleet, also conveyed his them to the mess hall." The second Navy helicopter congratulations to the crew. landed 30 minutes after the first. There is no deed more worthy of 5 • •; :• . . '-•« • •'f • " m �6 DECEMBER 1994 SEAFARERS LOG Towboat Operators Need Radar Endorsement; Lundeberg Scbool Courses Satisfy New Reg The U.S. Coast Guard recently issued an interim final rule which requires towboat operators to pos­ sess a radar-observer endorsement. The new regulation extends the endorsement requirement to licensed operators and all other pilots of radar-equipped, uninspected towboats which are 26 feet or more in length and which operate in U.S. waters. According to the rule, which went into effect on November 25, mariners who test for original licenses, renewal licenses or upgraded licenses on or after Februaiy 15,1995, must have the radar-observer endorsement. Mariners who already have & towboat operator's license but no radar endorsement, must take a four-hour radar operation course by February 15,1995. Passing the four-hour course will result in ob­ taining a radar certificate which is valid as an endorsement until the mariner's license expires or is renewed or upgraded. At that time, a mariner must seek a radar endorsement. Three Types As is the case with a towboat operator's license, a radar-ob­ server endorsement expires after five years. However, because the expiration dates of a mariner's license and his or her radar endorsement may differ, license renewal does not terminate the radar endorsement, and radar en­ dorsement may be renewed at any time. (This differs from the pro­ cedures regarding radar certifi­ cates, which are terminated by license renewal, upgrading or ex­ piration.) The rule also establishes three types of radar endorsements and specifies which subject matter must be covered in radar observer courses. The categories of cer­ tification are radar observer/un­ limited, radar observer/inland waters and radar observer/rivers. The latter two are new categories; in the past, only operators of ves­ sels of at least 3(X) gross tons were required to hold a radar endorse­ ment. In anticipation of this rule, the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education and its Hew Lundeberg School Classes Increase Hands-On Training (see separate story below). Continued from page 3 The new inland classes— to the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 deck-inland, radar observer/Inland, (CPA 90). That legislation is in­ radar observer/rivers, engineroom tended to keep the nation's waters familiarization, diesel engine free of marine oil spills. maintenance, electrical, hydraulics The SIU, as part of its ongoing and welding—^were put together to commitment to comply with all comply witii new federal regula­ U.S. Coast Guard procedures and tions and to meet the increasing practices, answered the CPA 90 needs of the tug and barge industry, mandate by including the issue of with consideration of members' training in its three-year standard work schedules. freightship and tanker contract (which went into effect June 16, Expanded Courses 1993 and expires on June 15, Students who take* the AB 1996) and by establishing the tanker operation/safety course. course will have the opportunity to The power plant maintenance reap the benefits of six weeks of class was creat^ after a thorough new hands-on training. Formerly a review by the school's vocational six-week course, the AB class has education department of the varied been expanded to 12 weeks so that engine-department work being done it may include practical training in by Seafarers. That review included sealift and oil/hazardous materials determining which percentages of spill prevention and containment, active QMEDs sail as daywotkers, as well as other hands-on instruc­ tion relevant to deck department pumpmen or electricians. TTie course also was developed personnel. Along those same lines, the as a cornerstone of the new engine FOWT class has been lengthened department career tracks, which from six weeks to 11 weeks. It will become mandatory in 1996 now includes hands-on training covering firefighting and first aid, oil spill prevention and contain­ ment, sealift, and two other weeks of specialized, practical training relevant to FOWTs. Finally, the recently revised chief cook course, which lasts 12 weeks, will continue offering stu­ dents the chance to hone their skills in the Lundeberg School's modern lecture/demonstration galley and the production galley. The course also includes the use of computers, textbooks and classroom lectures. •••"r . Positive Reaction Seafarers who took the radar operation course in Houston reacted positively both to the class and to the regulation. "^eryone I work with thinks it's a good rule, because it promotes safety," said David Denning, 38, who sails as a master for G«feH Towing. He added that the course "up­ dates us on the potential dangers of our jobs, and how to work safe­ ly. I think it's a good class. We had a good turnout, and it's great that the union came here and put it on before the deadline." "I gained insight into exactly how radar works," noted AB Nickoli Payne, 23, who also sails with G&H Towing. "It's an inter­ esting course with a good instruc­ tor, and I appreciate the fact that the course was brought here to the union hall." Lundeberg School instructors formulated the four-hour class, as well as the inland and rivers radar courses, when the Coast Guard regulation was issued in late Oc­ tober. The union's school offers several radar courses, such as the one taken by Seafarers In photos above and below. The classes help a boatman meet the newly required Coast Guard radar en­ dorsement. rammed int© the Big Bayou Canot Bridge, thereby throwing the railroad tracks out of align­ ment by more than three feet. In the aftermath of that dis­ aster, Congress called for an ex­ tensive study of marine safety issues related to uninspected towing vessels. Conducted joint­ ly by the Offices of Navigation Safety and Waterway Services and of Marine Safety, Security and Environmental Protection, the study gave Coast Guard offi­ cials a number of recommenda­ tions to improve safety in the towing industry—one of which called for operators of radarequipped towing vessels of 26 feet or longer to hold radar endor­ sements. The SIU and the Lundeberg School had input in the study, and the union also testified before Congress that stricter safety regulations governing the inland industry are needed. Specialty Courses In addition to the courses listed in this month's issue of the Seafarers LOG (see pages 15-18), the Lundeberg School occasionally will offer specialty courses to meet the manpower needs of SIUStehns from Tragedy contracted companies. For the The issuance of the new most up-to-date information, check the schedule in each issue regulation stems directly from the of the LOG or contact the admis­ derailment of the Amtrak pas­ senger train Sunset Limited on sions office at Piney Point. September 22,1993. In that tragic and infamous incident, 47 people were killed when the train went off track and plunged into the Big Bayou Canot near Mobile, Ala., QMED/Pumpman 1. Power Plant Maintenance just minutes after a barge pushed by the tugboat MV Mauvilla (6 weeks) 2. Diesel Engine Technol­ ogy (4 weeks) Tribute to Fraley's Bravery 3. MEM I (6 weeks) 4. Pumproom Maintenance and Operations (2 weeks) 5. Machine Tool Operations (5 weeks—course is being developed) 6. Welding (4 weeks) 7. Hydraulics (4 weeks) New Course Requirements Set for QMEDs In conjunction with the publishing of its 1995 vocational upgrading schedule, the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education has announced revisions in course requirements for QMEDs. The Paul Hall Center's Lun­ deberg School also has released new, suggested upgrading course career tracks for QMED/ Dayworkers, QMED/ Pumpmen and QMED/ Electricians. As of January 1, 1995, all QMEDs must pass the following courses in order to advance within the rating structure: power plant maintenance, marine electrical maintenance I (MEM I), and diesel engine technology. (Formerly, the courses required for advancement were MEM I, tanker/pumproom operations and refrigeration systems main­ tenance and operations.) Seafarers who receive their QMED-Any Rating Class One certification prior to January 1, 1995, will remain QMED Class One. Members who passed one of the newly mandatory courses (power plant maintenance, MEM Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship included three separate radar observer courses (unlimited, .inland and rivers) in its 1995 vocational upgrading schedule. All are approved by the Coast Guard. (Course descrip­ tions appear on pages 15 and 17.) Additionally, Lundeberg School instructors last month conducted the four-hour radar operation course at the SIU hall in Houston. The four-hour class also will be available at other SIU halls in the next few months, and probably will be taught at the Lundeberg School as well. Check upcoming issues of the Seafarers LOG or contact the admissions office at Piney Point for the latest scheduling information. I or diesel) prior to January 1, 1995, may use that mandatory class plus an elective to move up in classification, up to and including QMED Class Two. However, they will not be advanced to QMED Class One until they have passed all three of the new mandatoiy courses plus three electives. The career tracks, which are ex­ pected to become mandatory in 1996, were developed "in order to better prepare the members for the jobs they're actually doing aboard vessels," said Lundeberg School QMED/Electriclan Vocational Director Jim Shaffer. The career tracks are as fol­ 1. Power Plant Maintenance lows: (6 weeks) 2. Diesel Engine Technol­ QMED/Dayworker ogy (4 weeks) 1. Power Plant Maintenance 3. MEM I (6 weeks) (6 weeks) 4. MEM II (6 weeks) 2. Diesel Engine Technol­ 5. Hydraulics (4 weeks) ogy (4 weeks) 6. Refrigeration Systems 3. MEM I (6 weeks) Maintenance and Operations 4. Machine Tool Operations 7. Practical Electronics (4 (4 weeks) weeks—course is being 5. Welding (4 weeks) developed). 6. Refrigeration Systems For course descriptions, see Maintenance and Operations (4 the special supplement in this weeks) issue of theSeafarers LOG, pages OR Hydraulics (6 weeks) 15-18. On a frigid night last December, Bosun Mark Fraley (left) donned a survival suit and entered freezing waters to pull to safety a shipmate who had fallen and been struck by ice floes. The bosun, who sails on American Steamship Company's Indiana Harbor, is honored for his bravery at the annual Admiral of the Ocean Seas award ceremony of the United Seamen's Service. MarAd Ad­ ministrator Albert J. Hertlerger makes the presentation. �DECEMBER 1994 SEAFARERS LOG 7 EigM Bosuns Achieve Top Certtfication Tommie Benton, Edmund control procedures, forklift han­ Brand, Hugo Dermody, Tim dling and Hagglund crane opera­ Fitzgerald, Stanley Gurney tion. Underway and vertica Philip Parisi, Mohamed Raw replenishment procedures were and Archie Ware recently joinec thoroughly"reviewed. the ranks of the union's recer­ Advanced firefighting anc tified bosuns after completing a emergency first aid classes also rigorous five-week training were on the bosuns' class course. Honored at the November schedule. Brother Rawi, 49, who membership meeting held in joined the SIU in 1976 at the New Piney Point, Md., the bosuns York hall, found these sessions of graduated with a certification great value. "They are very im­ recognized by the SIU as the portant skills to know highest designation in the deck remember," he said. department. In each topic, the bosuns had The bosun recertification pro­ to complete the course work and gram of the Lundeberg School at pass either a written exam or the Paul Hall Center for Maritime demonstration drill or both. Training and Education is Enhancing the Job designed to update seafarers in the top post of a ship's unlicensed As part of the recertification deck department crew on trends curriculum, the bosuns attended Graduates of the bosun recertification course are (from left, front row) Hugo Dermody, Mohamed Rawi, Tim in the maritime indu.stry, includ­ classes in communicating effec­ Fitzgerald, Tommie Benton, (second row) Stanley Gumey, Edmund Brand, Archie Ware and Philip Parisi. ing changing shipboard technol­ tively with fellow shipmates ogy and updated seamanship both unlicensed and licensed. The (SPAD), the voluntary contribu techniques. Additionally, the purpose of these sessions is to tions Seafarers can make to be bosuns' curriculum prepares the prepare bosuns to play a key role in used for contributing to the cam seamen for their leadership roles maintaining a cohesive, proactive paigns of individuals supportive team of crewmembers. among fellow crewmembers. of the U.S. maritime industry. "Il The bosuns also had an oppor­ is our security," he said. Mastering the New tunity to expand their computer The bosuns also met with rep­ Recognizing the importance skills. resentatives from every other of staying abreast with changes department of the union. Effec Maritime Laws made in the industry. Brother tive contract enforcement was Given the critical condition of discussed with officials of the Fitzgerald, a 19-year member of the SIU, said in remarks made to U.S. shipping, the bosuns took union's collective bargaining Seafarers at the Piney Point mem- part in several discussions with department. The need to protect bership meeting last month SIU officials on the union's ef­ benefits of Seafarers in the areas during the bosuns' graduation forts to revitalize the American of health care, vacations, training ceremony, "If you are not upgrad­ maritime industry and assure job and pensions was discussed with ing your skills with new equip­ security for all Seafarers. In a trip representatives of the Seafarers ment and technology, you are to the U.S. Capitol, the bosuns plans. met with the union's legislative going backwards." For Brother Brand, these ses Through a combination of staff to review the SIU's political sions added to his understanding drills, hands-on exercises and operation and its support for of the union and its operation, classroom work, the bosuns com­ egislation that promotes U.S.- was very important to me to be pleted advanced classes in wire- lag shipping. able to meet the administration o: The extent to which legislation the SIU and discuss the future o splicing and navigation, making use of the Paul Hall Center's can determine the future of the the union," said the graduate o simulator, which reproduces sail­ industry was noted by Bosun Der­ the Lundeberg School's trainee ing conditions at sea in ports mody, who joined the SIU in class no. 123 (1973). 976 in the port of New Orleans, around the world. Passing the Torch In-depth work was done in n his remarks at the griaduation areas critical to the nation's ceremony, Dermody stressed the A small portion of the bosuns' military sealift operations, such importance of the Seafarers ime was dedicated to training the as helicopter maneuvers, damage Political Activities Donation young men and women enrollec For Bosun Parisi, Seafaring Is a Family Affair When Philip Parisi accepted hand for his father's graduation his certificate last month for from the Lundeberg School completing the bosun recer­ course, Parisi said, "And, we tification course at the Paul Hall may not be the last Seafarers Center for Maritime Training in this family." Parisi first became interested and Education, the Mas­ in the seafaring life while work­ sachusetts native said, "It is a ing with his father aboard the great deal we have here in Piney Point. All the old-timers fought family's fishing vessel during long and hard for what we have summers and after school. "While our fishing boat was here, so we all should do a good tossing about on a choppy day, I job." For Brother Parisi, the com­ would watch in amazement as ment was more than a tribute to the tankers sailed smoothly by. I the Piney Point, Md. training said to myself, I've got to sail complex, which encompasses aboard one of those," said the Lundeberg School. Pari si's Parisi. In 1982, Parisi became the remarks also acknowledged the first member of his family to at­ role of Seafarers who, the Lundeberg School tend throughout the union's 56-year when he graduated from the history, built the organization to trainee program. He soon began its present strength. Parisi knows some of these sailing aboard deep sea vessels Seafarers personally. The 34- as a member of the deck depart­ year-old bosun's father was a ment. Parisi has returned several Conor Parisi gets a close look at Seafarer active in the union's fishing membership, based in times to the Lundeberg School the workings of the membership to upgrade his seamanship skills. meeting. His father, Philip, is in Gloucester, Mass. The strong union that has ac­ For the bosun recertification background. crued to today's SIU members program, he returned with his also is a matter with which the wife and son, who stayed with LOG, Parisi stated that while he Parisi family is deeply familiar. him at the facilities while he at­ hopes that his son, Conor, would someday sail with the Seafarers, Philip Parisi's three brothers all tended the course. he is leaving that decision up to In an interview with a sailed with the SIU. Pointing to him. reporter from the Seafarers his son, Conor, who was on .r During a practice session in the tankerman safety and rescue opera­ tions class, Hugo P. Dermody volunteers to be in the sling, while other class members practice moving him. in the Paul Hall Center's entry level program. The bosuns worked side-by-side with the trainees in exercises covering knot-tying, wire splicing and deck maintenance, including use of a bosun's chair. Some of the bosuns found this work extremely rewarding and directed their graduation remarks to the trainees. Many of the graduating recer­ tified bosuns took time in their speeches to state that upgrading is crucial to the success of any seafaring career. "Work hard for yourselves and the union," said Brother Gumey, 32, who joined the union in 1979 in the port of Seattle. Brother Ware, 38, told the irospective Seafarers in the audience at the membership meeting, 'To the young trainees I say, look at us [the graduating !x)suns] for encouragement If we can do it, so can you." .-;y- . . . . rent on all facets of shipboard technology. "I really enjoyed this class and I am very proud of this union. I've been a member for almost 17 years and I will keep coming back to Piney Point," said the 38-yearold Brother Benton. Not Stopping Here In their graduation remarks, he bosuns indicated that they lave no intention of resting on their laurels. The SIU men talked Mohamed Rawi (left) and Stanley of the importance of continued Gurney learn proper ways to upgrading in order to remain cur- splice wire. •:iV . v;;'' �8 DECBmER1994 SEAFMERS LOG ' Working the Busy Caribbean Run J] Keeps S-L Discovery Crew on Alert From the busy port of Elizabeth, NJ. to the clear waters of Kingston, Jamaica, Seafarers who sail the Caribbean run aboard the Sea-Land Discovery work unrelentingly to get cargoes moved safely and efficiently. New York Patrolman Jack Sheehan recently met the ship when it docked in Elizabeth, N.J. to update the crewmembers on union activities and answer any questions they might have. He noted that due to the 28-day schedule the vessel follows, the 700-foot containership is never in one port for very long. "^e Sea-Land Discovery is a very busy ship with a hard work­ ing crew," Sheehan told a reporter from the Seafarers LOG. "They are always on the go to keep the ship in top form." The patrolman added that the deck department, headed by Bosun Nelson Sala, is superior. "Bosun Sala really keeps the ship in top-notch condition. Deck department members are always doing a lot of chipping and paint­ ing to keep the Sea-Land Dis­ covery loolang good," he said. Because the Sea-Land Dis­ covery maintains a very busy schedule, safety is of utmost im­ portance. Many of the crewmem­ bers who sail aboard the Sea-Land Discovery have at­ tended various upgrading classes at the Lundeberg Schoo and are very knowledgeable when it comes to safety, Sheehan said. He added that excellent meals jrepared by the galley gang, leaded by Chief Cook Jorge Salazar, help keep the crewmem­ bers happy and full of energy. "Chief Cook Salazar is always preparing new and interesting menus for the crew," the patrol­ man concluded. The Sea-Land Discovery, a vessel in the fleet of Sea-Land Service Inc., was built in 1968 and is capable of traveling speeds of up to 21 knots. The containership sails the Caribbean run which includes ports in Kingston, Jamaica; Rio Haina, Dominican Republic and San Juan, Puerto Rico. The Sea-Land Service ves­ sel loads and unloads its cargo in Elizabeth, New Orleans and Jack­ sonville, Fla. Chief Cook Jorge Salazar (left) and Steward Baker Jose Colls SA David Valle takes a break on check to be sure there are enough dry stores aboard the Sea- deck while the Sea-Land DisLand Discovery for the upcoming voyage. covery \s docked in Elizabeth, N.J. OMU Jorge Bermeo helps Taking time to catch up on union AB Robert Bateman (left) keep the ship's engineroom news are AB James Harris (left) presents Chief Mate Jim Ryan with a model of the S-L Discovery. in good working condition. and Bosun Nelson Sala. Crew Earns Praise for Work In Shipyard on Thompson Pass •V '/-.".C; ; •; The crew of the Thompson Pass recently was commended by Interocean Management officials following an extremely success­ ful shipyard period in Portland, Ore. in which the vessel was drydocked and overhauled. In a telegram sent to the ship by the head of marine personnel for the shipping company, crewHard at work in the engineroom members were thanked for "the are QMEDs Jim Soto (left) and excellent job done in the Bob Hamil. shipyard." In addition, a letter Preparing healthy, hearty meals for the crew aboard the Thompson Pass are galley gang members (from left) SAs Larry Lopez and All Mohamed, Steward/Baker CrIsantoModellas and Chief Cook Ahmed Sharif. sent to the captain from Inter­ ocean Management's marine superintendent extended thanks and appreciation to all hands for a job well done and compli­ mented the crew on their "team efforts, dedication and hard work." Teamwork and dedication by crewmembers aboard the Thompson Pass do help to keep the 874-foot tanker in top form, noted QMED Robert Hamil. From transporting petroleum products between Valdez, Alaska and the West Coast, to the recent shipyard stay, Thompson Pass crewmembers have adopted an "all for one" attitude to get each job done. In a letter to the Seafarers LOG, QMED Hamil praised the crewmembers. "This is a good and hard working crew, and it is a pleasure to sail with them aboard the Thompson Pass," he wrote. AB Mike Smolen (left) and Pumpman Rick Cavender are joined by Cathy Cavender during some off-time while in the shipyard. Hamil, who also serves as the ship's chairman, noted that he joined together with the captain, chief engineer, chief mate and first engineer in thanking the crew for a job well done while in the shipyard. He also provided the photos accompanying this article, which were taken during the vessel's stay in the shipyard. The Thompson Pass and its sister ship, the Brooks Range, were built in 1978. The 165,000 DWT tanker transports Valdez petroleum products between Val­ dez, Alaska and San Francisco and Los Angeles, Calif. Stopping to pose for the camera before going to the mess hall for lunch are (from left) ABs Jeff Turkus, Ben Armendariz, SA Larry Lopez and OS Kasem Omar. ^1 The Thompson Pass ^ ' anchored at El Segundo, Calif. • •" •••"SI �BECEMBER1994 SEAFARERS LOG 9 Seafarers Must Have MMDs Renewed by 1999 Ac Q0Op<OrA«*n n«*A As Seafarers are aware, mer­ chant seamen must renew their z-cards every five years, accord ing to U.S Coast Guard regula­ tions published in the final rule format in the September 27,1994 Federal Register. (Interim measures have been in effect since 1990 when the five-year renewal requirement became law as part of the Oil Pollution Act of 1990.) The federal agency is re­ quiring that all merchant mariner's documents (MMDs), or z-cards, must be updated by 1999 and has issued an expiration schedule for existing z-cards. The renewal requirements were effective as of October 27, and the expiration schedule be­ comes effective January 1,1995. renewing z-cards and licenses, the Coast Guard will use the date the document was issued for those processed before 1991. (Since 1991, z-cards have been issued with expiration dates posted on both the front and back of the documents.) The date of issuance is locatet on the back of a z-card, to the right of the thumb print. Documents issued in years en ding in 5 or 0 must renew durin 1995. For those cards issued in the years ending with a 1 or 6, renewal must take place in 1996. For years ending in 2 or 7, renewal must be done in 1997. For documents issued in years en­ ding in 3 or 8, renewal must take place in 1998. Any documents is­ sued in years ending in 4 or 9 must Conditions for Renewal be renewed by 1999 to remain Z-cards may be renewed up to active. (See chart below.) one year before they expire, and Renewal Requirements pan be renewed up to one year after they expire, but are not valid The Department of Transpor­ for shipping once they expire. tation agency has issued the fol­ For example, if a Seafarer's lowing requirements for z-cart z-card is due to expire in June renewal: 1995, he or she has until June Entry level MMDs (OS, 1996 to renew, although he or she wiper and steward department will not be permitted to sail after [food handlers]): June 1995 if it has not been • Coast Guard application renewed. for renewal of MMD • Coast Guard Nationa Renewal Schedule Driver Register check consent To determine the date for form GOP Gains Majority in Senate and House Continuedfrom page 3 presence in the United States' vast international trade. It must act to ensure that a fleet of U.S.-flag mer­ chant ships, crewed by skilled American se^arers, stands ready to serve our country's economic and military sealift needs." During the 103rd Congress, the House overwhelmingly passed a 10-year, $1.3 billion shipping bill, the funding for which would have come from a tonnage duty levied on all vessels calling on U.S. ports from foreign destinations. But the Senate failed to act on the legislation, as three farm-state senators—Pressler, Charles E. Grassley (R-Iowa) and Hank Brown (R-Colo.) used a par­ liamentary gimmick to prevent the Senate from debating or voting on the bill. Next year, the farm bill will be due for a vote. This legislation is enacted every five years. Tradi­ tionally, during the farm bil debate, the laws which mandate transportation of U.S. govern­ ment food aid cargoes on American-flag ships have come under attack from giant agricul­ tural interests. The union is prepared for such attacks in the event that they arise in the 1995 farm bill debate. Maintaining cargo preference laws which require that 75 per­ cent of government-donated food aid be shipped on U.S.-flag car­ riers, along with legislation to revitalize the nation's liner fleet will be among the top issues for the SIU's legislative staff. Addi­ tionally, the union will continue to seek measures that will in­ crease the size of the U.S. tanker fleet and bring American-flag cruise ships to the high seas. Seafarers Active In Elections Around the country, during the weeks leading up to November 8, Seafarers took part in the grassroots activities that help get officials elected. By working on phone banks, going door-to-door with literature, attending rallies and campaign events, and putting up signs. Seafarers contributed their volunteer time to promaritime candidates seeking con­ gressional, state and local offices. Seafarers worked for, among others, incumbent Senators Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas), Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), Chuck Robb (D-Va.) and Slade Gorton (R-Wash.), all of whom were re-elected. On the House side. Seafarers backed incumbents Randy "Duke" Cunningham (R-Calif.), Richard Gephardt (D-Mo.), Gerald Solomon (R-N.Y.), Gerry Studds (D-Mass.), Jack Fields (R- Coast Guard photo/finger­ print form • Issuance fee of $35 Rated MMDs (Any rated shipboard position): • Coast Guard application for renewal of MMD • Coast Guard National Driver Register check consent form • Coast Guard photo/finger­ print form • Cdast Guard physical (can be taken at an SIU clinic or with a family physician) • Drug test (can be taken at an SIU clinic) • Evaluation fee of $45 • Issuance fee of $35 • Must show proof of profes­ sional requirements including one of the following: - One year seatime - Three years related ex­ perience (to be evaluated by the Coast Guard) - Renewal exercise ($40) Lifeboat Endorsement: • Coast Guard application for renewal of MMD • Coast Guard National Driver Register consent form • Coast Guard photo/fingerprint form • Issuance fee $35 • Evaluation fee $45 • Professional requirements (see above) Inactive MMDs (continuity document): Cannot ship with this docu­ ment Must renew every five years Issuance fee $35 Renewal Year Issuance Year MMDs held in conjunction with a merchant mariner's license will usually be renewed concur­ rently with the license. As noted above, seamen have a one-year grace period to renew their document after it has ex­ pired. If on a vessel when the MMD expires, the Coast Guard will not pull a seaman off, but he or she is not permitted to re-ship with an expired document. How To Renew If a document is up for renewal, a Seafarer may go to any Coast Guard office and fill out the necessary forms as listed above. It should be noted, however, that he or she will also need to bring several other items into the Coast Guard office at the actual time of MMD renewal. The Seafarer must be able to show proof of one year, out of the last five, sailing time or be able to meet one of the other professional requirements as noted above. If providing proof of seatime, it must be the original or certified copy of discharges or an original letter from a company stating seatime. The Seafarer must have the ac­ tual MMD in order to receive a new one. If renewing by mail, two passport-size photos also should be included. And finally, he or she must have the proper fee or fees as listed above in order to receive a new MMD. (These fees are the subject of a lawsuit by the SIU which has argued in federal dis­ trict court that they constitute a 1995 1996 1997 1990 1991 • 1985 work tax, and as such are uncon­ stitutional. The union also chal­ lenged the manner in which the fees were calculated. No decision has yet been issued on this case.) New System As part of the renewal system, the Coast Guard has begun issu­ ing a new style of z-cards. The new MMD is a plastic, credit card-size document which, is similar in appearance to the current z-cards. The most notable change is the addition of a mag­ netic stripe such as the one on a credit card. The new MMD stripe will contain the mariner's name and social security number. Because of the z-card renewal schedule, both the old and new cards will be in circulation for the next five to six years, and either version is valid during that period. After the year 2000, all merchant mariners should have the new card. The new card was designed in order to help reduce errors and increase record-keeping accuracy for the Coast Guard. To further reduce paperwork, the agency would like to expand the use of the magnetic stripe in the future to include ratings, sea time and other information. The chart below shows the year that MMDs, in order to remain active, must be renewed based on issuance dates. The exact date of expiration matches the month and day of issuance. 1992 1998 1993 1999 1994 1986 1987 1988 1989 1980 1981 1982 1984 1975 1976 1977 1983 1978 1970 1965 1971 1966 1972 1967 1974 1969 1960 1962 1964 1955 1961 1956 1973 1968 1963 1957 1958 • 1959 1950 1951 1952 1953 1954 1945 1946 1947 1948 1949 1940 1941 1942 1937 1943 1944 . 1939 Source; FederalRegister, September 27,1994 1938 '•.'fv - • 1979 -••yM : ExpedUed MarAd Approvai SougM By Sea-Land to HeHag Five Ships Texas) and Herb Bateman (RVa.)—all winners in their respec­ tive bids for re-electioni—as well as other candidates. Sea-Land Service Inc. asked In the U.S. Virgin Islands, the Maritime Administration to members of the SIU's industrial accelerate its consideration of its division, the United Industrial application to transfer five of its Workers (UIW), threw their sup­ American-flag ships to foreign port behind eventual winner Dr. ship registries, the company an­ Roy Schneider in a hotly con­ nounced on November 8. The tested gubernatorial race. New Jersey-based company Schneider won a November 22 cited the lack of a new maritime runoff election against the incum­ policy as the reason for the company's need to now reflag bent lieutenant governor. Besides donating their time some of its ships. and efforts. Seafarers also con­ Last Year's Application tributed to the campaigns of can­ In response to Sea-Land's re­ didates who support a strong U.S. merchant marine through the quest for expedited review of its Seafarers Political Action Dona­ reflagging application, SIU tion (SPAD). Contributions from President Michael Sacco said, this voluntary fund are made "There is nothing new about year-round, every year, to elected Sea-Land's application to reflag officials who back the American- ships. The application was sub­ flag fleet. mitted last year and it has been pending ever since." At that time, the SIU, along with four other maritime labor organiza­ tions, filed comments in opposi­ tion of the flag transfer application. Presented in July 1993, SeaLand's petition initially asked for permission to reflag 13 ships. The request to expedite con­ sideration and approval of its reflagging application con­ cerned five ships: Sea-Land Pride, Sea-Land Value, SeaLand Motivator, Sea-Land Freedom and Sea-Land Mariner. The first three are SL31's operating in the transpacific and transatlantic trades. The lat­ ter two are D9-Js which sail be­ tween Asia and Europe. In its November 8 statement, Sea-Land indicated the com­ pany would place the five ships under the Marshall Islands flag. SIU Presses for Ship Bill Sacco noted that "Sea-Land's announcement that it is pressing the Maritime Administration fora response to its application does no^ng to change or deto* the SIU from its determination to get a maritime bill enacted by Congress and signed into law that will negate the need for U.S. companies to reflag any of their diips." Sea-Land is a subsidiary of CSX Corp., a Richmond, Va.based transportation company. a. •'M' 1 .-.yr. If : �10 DECEMRER1904 SEAFARERS LOG Houston Still Fools Flood's Afterofiects Pumpman's Home Is Destroyed As flood waters in Houston townhouse particularly was hardreceded during late October, so hit. "It's a complete loss, and we too did the stories about the dis­ were refused a building permit to aster fade from the national media go back in and rebuild the place spotlight. because it's below the But for thousands of people, floodplain," said Acord, 38. "Our the effects of the severe flooding house was destroyed." which caused damage in 48 coun­ The respective homes of ties covering more than 250 miles Recertified Steward Royce will be felt for a long time to Bozeman and Electrician Jinuny come. Rogers also reportedly sustained At least 19 people died in major damage. flood-related incidents, and more Dog Swam Away than 12,000 had to evacuate their homes during the period from Oc­ Acord and his wife, Maria, tober 14-19. Adding to the chaos were at their suburban Houston was a major pipeline explosion on home on October 17. "The water October 20 which dumped about started rolling in about 5 a.m. By 200,000 gallons of gasoline, 8 a.m. we had to leave. My dog diesel fuel and crude oil into the swam out the front door," recalled These photos depict the total devastation of Floyd Acord's home following the severe flooding that hit the San Jacinto River. Acord, a Lundeberg School Houston area in late October. More th^ a dozen Seafarers graduate. "Nobody knew it was are among those whose homes coming. The water just surged." surance. sakes, but the flood claimed just Acord said the three-bedroom suffered varying degrees of When the waters receded, he about all of their other posses­ home was paid for. Unfortunate­ and Maria managed to salvage a sions. "We moved a lot of stuff damage from the flooding. Pumpman Floyd Acord's ly, he did not have flood in- few photographs and other keep- upstairs, thinking it would be okay, but the water was 16 feet deep and made it to the second level," said Acord. He added that Recertified Bosun Frank Lyle and AB Spen­ cer Lyie greatly assisted him in the post-flood cleanup. "They helped me dig out the house, donated a week of their time, and fluke quotas, the government Magnuson Act. Continued from page 3 used a geometric mean to set a "The Court's decision that I'm very grateful." In fact, Acord is managing to quota that would reach the 0.53 choosing one standard deviation To set a quota level to meet the mortality rate. It is only for the below the mean is arbitrary and look on the relative bright side of target mortality rate, in this case 1994 quota that the NMFS used a capricious is supported by the the flood and its aftermath. "My 0.53, NMFS biologists must standard error calculation to 1993 and the 1995 quotas, both of father also lives in the area and guess the size of the summer determine stock size. which were set using the he's 78 years old, so I'm really flounder stock for the following grateful ^at no one in th&'family It appeared to Judge Doumar geometric mean figure. year. Numbers of fish are es­ that NMFS scientists and staff "The commercial catch quota got hurt," said Acord. "We all timated by age groups—new- chose to use the one standard which was contested herein spent three days in a shelter and boms (or recmits), age one fish, deviation below the mean "not should be reset using the figure now we're staying in an apart­ age two and so on. TTie numbers because it was the best scientific derived from the best scientific ment (donated through the of older fish in the population are information available, but solely information available—19.05 American Red Cross and the Floyd Acord stands In front of fairly reliable because these year because it increased the percent­ million pounds, the geometric Federal Emergency Management what remains of his flooddamagedhome. classes show up again and again ages of reaching not a balanced mean, replacing the quota set at Agency). in catches and surveys. Acord offered one final "We've already found another result but a result which protected one standard deviation below the thought on his next house. "I can the summer flounder stock to the mean, or 16.005 million pounds," home," he added. "I'm just trying Past Experiencea Factor tell you this: I'll never buy to get qualified for the financing, detriment of the fishermen." his statement concludes. For newborns and future newanother house that's in a and hopefully I'll be back on a boms, biologists can only guess 1993 Goal Exceeded Fishermen Enthusiastic floodplain," ship by Christmas." both how many summer flounder The judge found in 1993, when The groups which filed the will spawn in the following year the geometric mean was used, the lawsuit, in addition to the SIU, are Flu, Flu, Go Away and how many newbom fish will fishing mortality rate exceeded the Belford Seafood Cooperative survive to age one. the target mortality rate of 0.53 by In making these calculations for 9 percent. NMFS scientists were in Belford, N.J., the Fishermen's the summer flounder stock in 1994, aware of this fact when the 1994 Dock Cooperative in Pt. Pleasant, the govemment—^which by law quota was established, the Judge N.J. and Wanchese Fish Co. with must use the best scientific data noted. This should have been suf­ operations in Hampton, Va., available—incorporated many ficient reason to employ that Wanchese, N.C. and New Bed­ conservative assumptions and method of calculation again. ford, Mass. methods to compensate for this un­ There was no reason to switch Joe Branin, an SIU fisherman certainty, including using a from using the geometric mean to from Belford, N.J. expressed geometric mean and standard the ultraconservative calculation deep satisfaction with the judge's deviation to estimate the number of device of a standard error below decision. "This is great!" he said. new recmits in 1994. The major the mean. Angered by the fact that the property of a geometric mean is that information provided by fisher­ He noted that "Congress, in the it always is lower than the simple men had been ignored by NMFS Magnuson Act, expressed a desire arithmetic average or mean. to balance conservation with the staff and scientists as well as by The lawsuit charged, and Judge rights of commercial and recrea­ the management council, Branin, Doumar agreed, that the govem­ tional fishermen. It is clear that as a result of Judge Doumar's ment erred in subtracting a standard error from the calculation of 1994 the 'standard deviation'. . . was decision, sees new opportunities. age zero and age one fish. This picked to place a scientific name "We told them all along what was alone had the effect of lowering the on what was plainly an un­ really happening in the ocean, but these bureaucrats never listen to a quota by 3 million pounds. A stand- balanced decision." word we say. Maybe that will iard deviation, such as the one used Goal Is a 'Balance' change now." by NMFS in setting the summer Judge Doumar's opinion and Pt. Pleasant fisherman Jim flounder quota is a range above and order continued, "Fishery below an estimated number be­ management plans must balance Lovgren, who testified before tween which that number is very the importance of conservation Judge Doumar, said the industry Taking advantage of the flu shots offered last m(i!>nth by the likely to fall. against support for commercial could learn a valuable lesson Virginia Mason Clinic In Seattle are QMED Clinton Anderson (top The government justified the use of and recreational fishermen. from this case. "We must be in­ left) and DEU Antonio Gonzales (top right). Staff rnember Char­ the standard deviation and lower num­ Weighing the balance grossly in volved from the beginning of the lotte Edman from the clinic, which serves as the preferred ber by claiming that this qrproach in­ favor of conservation necessarily management process—when the provider organization (PRO) of the Seafarers Welfare Plan In the creased the chances of hitting the 0.53 means harming fishermen, which real decisions are made." This northwestem part of the U.S., came to the union hall to administer fishing mortality rate. was not Congress' expressed pur­ points to the "need for fishermen the shots. In bottom photo, Chjef Cook Gary Correy (left) helps with the paperwork In signing In Chief Cook Jack Garten. For both the 1993 and 1995 pose when implementing the to organize nationally," he said. Big Witt Scored b! U.S. Court For Atlantic Coast Fishermen ;^v / 'C-'; �ii" 1994 SEAFARERS UK 11 LNG Crew Bids Farewell To Retiring BosunWaters First Assistant Engineer Pat Pickard (left) Keeping the engines running smoothly are and OMU Jose Rodriguez discuss safety Second Engineer Gary Spell (seated) anc precautions during a lifeboat drill. OMU Ronnie Bond. Striving for Excellence Aboard the Harriette Bosun Waters (third from left) accepts a plaque from the crewmembers and officers aboard the LNG Capr/com during a shipboard retirement party. Pictured from left are QMED Thomas Harris, Steward/Baker John Gibbons, Waters, AB Floyd Hackman, AB J.Mayo and AB Robert O'Connell. Seafarers aboard the LNG Capricorn The Alabama native vividly recalls the bid a fond farewell to Recertified Bosun times when freighters and cargo ships used Aubrey "Pete" Waters, 66, who recently booms for loading and unloading, and it retired after a 42-year career with the SIU. would be "weeks in port instead of hours." Capricorn crewmembers and officers As for the crews themselves. Waters gave a shipboard retirement party for believes that today's seamen are better Waters and presented him with a com­ informed and educated about their in­ memorative plaque. dustry than ever before. AB Michael McCarthy, a Lundeberg Part of the credit for that trend goes to School graduate, was one of the SIU mem­ the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training bers who took part in the retirement fes­ and Education, he says. "I recommend to all tivities. "I started sailing 12 years ago, and Seafarers that they upgrade as often as pos­ Pete was my first bosun," he recalled, sible and get a higher eduction, too. Take hadn't sewihjm since that first ship, the advantage of what the school has to offer." LNGAriesT^t then five months ago I met Among the highlights of his days as an him in an airport in Japan and found out active Seafarer, Waters quickly cites the we were joining the same ship and that it two times he met the late Paul Hall, the union's president until his death in 1980. would be his last tour. McCarthy described Waters as "a great The first encounter happened in 1971 guy, very diplomatic, and he cares about during an education conference at Piney die crew. He means a lot to us." Point, Md. The second took place four In a letter to the Seafarers LOG, Mc­ years later in New York, and Waters was Posing for the camera following a union meeting aboard ship are (from left, standing Carthy and several other Seafarers wrote surprised to leam that Hall remembered Bosun Daniel Laitinen, AB James Cunningham, OMU Ronnie Bond, AB Claude Hollier that Waters "leaves a legacy to be envied him. "The older men in the SIU, they had and DEU Daniel Vasquez. From the left (seated) are SA Henry Edwards, AB Tommy by any Seafarer—beginning as an entry- incredible memories and they never forgot Lister, Recertified Steward George Quinn and OMU Charles Dallas. level seaman and ending his career as a who you were," he says. bosun, last sailing aboard an Energy Reflecting on his career. Brother Waters From the superior quality of the food to another's company," the chief cook stated. Transportation Corporation vessel." concludes that he "wouldn't trade my time the smoothly ruiining engines, crewmem- "At our union meetings there is always a "I'm going to miss it all," Waters states. going to sea for anything in the world." bers in every department aboard the Over- lot of praise for the quality and spirit of the I met some guys who probably were He spent most of his time ashore in Seat­ seas Harriette work hard to keep the vessel entire crew," he said. closer than my real brothers, especially tle but has retired to Tmssville, Ala., whae Transporting both bulk and bagged back in the years when we were gone 10, he lives with his wife. Tammy. He has two in top form. Chief Cook George Maranos (who agricultural products such as wheat, corn 11 months out of the year I'll just miss grown children and four grandchildren. took the photographs accompanying this and soybeans, the Harriette sails from Gulf going to sea. The SIU has been family to As a retiree. Waters plans to do some article) wrote in a letter to the Seafarers ix)rts to primarily Africa and Russia. me, and I've really enjoyed it." light traveling with Tammy. He also ex­ The 567-foot bulk carrier, operated by LOG, 'This is really one of the best ships, Pete Waters joined the SIU in 1952 in presses interest in enrolling in a wood­ Maritime Overseas Corp., currently is on Detroit and began his career in the union's working class—a hobby that's always I believe. All departments work well together, and everything is in top-notch its way to Lithuania with 18,933 tons of Great Lakes division. From 1953-56, in interested him but one that he has never soybean meal. The vessel will spend ap­ condition." addition to sailing, he assisted in organiz­ had time to leam. The ship docked recently in the port of proximately 15 days at sea and three to six ing drives in that region. He eyentually Waters' shipmates aboard the Capricorn New Orleans following a busy schedule days in port discharging the cargo. describe him as "full of life and vigor. He's transferred to the deep sea division. that included stops in Peru, Kenya, Capable of traveling at speeds of more Waters' memories span from the days always looking out for his 'gang,' first and Lithuania and a one-month layover in a than 14 knots loaded, the Harriette can of cramped, basic shipboard quarters and foremost. The men and women who have shipyard in Gdansk, Poland. carry up to 25,541 metric tons. equipment, such as manual "ringer" wash­ sailed with Pete have thought of him not Always interested in news from home ing machines, to the modem conveniences only as a great bosun, but dso as a good or about the maritime industry, "Crewand privacy enjoyed by tody's mariners. friend. He will be missed!" members are always ready to get together for a shipboard meeting or just to enjoy one ' r- -' r'' '••"0 . •. ' • ' "V.r. • -'vVrAifc: ov- . Pennsylvania Has a New WWII Seaman's Group •3 • . V. • •i- Preparing the lifeboat during a drill at sea Recertified Steward George Quinn shreds is Bosun Daniel Laitinen. cabbage for some of his special cole slaw. Several retired SIU members recently helped found the Mon Valley (Pa.) chapter of the World War |l Merchant Marine Veterans, and membership already has grown to nearly 100. The group meets in McKeesport, Pa., which is located near Pittsburgh. Pictured above (from the left) are retired Seafarers Pete Salvo, George Leidemann, Walter Sestrick, Mark Bryne, Bill Grace, Dick Dell and John Humy. Correspondence to the organization may be sent to P.O. Box 352, McKeesport, PA 15134. �12 SEAFARERS LOG { DECEMRER1994 , .:ti- EPA Certificatioii Courses Scheduled for New Year Seafarers who missed the November 14 July 1995 (see box at right) and also peri­ deadline for obtaining certification as refrigera­ odically will be available as a separate course tion technicians are asked by the union to at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point. The secure such certification as soon as possible. class already is part of all engine department Anyone involved in repair and servicing upgrading courses. of refrigeration equipment and air condition­ Two-Day Course ing systems must be certified, according to Environmental' Protection Agency (EPA) Day one of the class starts 8 a.m. and lasts regulations issued earlier this year which until 4 p.m. Among the topics covered are: stem from the Clean Air Act Amendments of refrigerants and compressor lubricating oils, 1990. This affects Seafarers who sail in the refrigerant handling safety procedures, how engine department. refrigerants affect the environment and Passing the EPA-approved refrigeration theories of refrigeration. technician certification course conducted by The second day also begins at 8 a.m. and the Lundeberg School of the Paul Hall Cen­ lasts until 2 p.m., followed by the exam. ter for Maritime Training and Education will Refrigeration servicing, handling small ap­ result in Seafarers earning the certification. pliances and working with high- and lowThe two-day class, which culminates with a pressure equipment are some of the topics four-part, 100-question exam, will be con­ covered. ducted at SIU halls from January through Testing is conducted by the instructor REFRIGERATION TECHNICIAN COURSE SCHEDULE DATE LOCATION TELEPHONE# Jan, 9-13 Feb. 13-17 March 13-17 April 10-14 June 5-9 July 10-14 Jacksonville, Fla. Wilmington, Calif. Brooklyn, N.Y. Houston Honolulu New Orleans (904) (310) (718) (713) (808) (504) 'v. ..vt- . 353-0987 549-4000 499-8600 659-5152 845-5222 529-7546 Note: Rve-day blocks of time have been set aside for these courses to accom­ modate all who apply and those who want to retest. Each course, however, will take place during a two-day period within those dates. Check with the port agent in each of these union halls to determine the exact date of the class. following the second day of class, from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. The exam is divided into four parts, and there are corresponding certification types. Anyone may t^e the exam an unlimited number of times, so different certifications may be earned separately. According to a recent action by the Seafarers Appeals Board (SAB), after November 14,1994, Seafarers who are cer­ tified refrigeration technicians will be given priority within their respective seniority classes for all QMED, electrician, refrigera­ tion and junior engineer jobs. More Sealarers Complele RoMgeraOon Tech. Exam Preparation and concentration took the class in Puerto Rico and paid off for Seafarers who took the who described the course as inter­ Paul Hall Center's two-day esting and informative. "The book helped very much on refrigeration technician certifica­ tion course last month at SIU halls rules and regulations," added in Algonac, Mich, and San Juan, QMED Kelly Mayo, who attended P.R. and at the Lundeberg School the course in Algonac. "The test was, as advertised in the Seafarers in Piney Point, Md. As has been the case with LOG, quite difficult. But as long as hundreds of other SIU members you paid attention in class and who took the course at various loca­ studied in advance, there's no prob­ tions earlier this year, those who lem." Like Prim and Mayo, took it in Algonac, San Juan and Eric Malzkuhn explains use of refrigerant recovery equipment during a recent refrigeration Piney Point said that reviewing the Pumpman/Electrician Brian Sen- Instructor technician certification class at Piney Point, Md. course textbook in advance and gelaub praised the efforts of Lun­ maintaining sharp concentration deberg School instructor Eric during the classroom work are esr Malzkuhn. "He's one of the best material to cover in two days." Refrigeration Tech. Course, Paul The Lundeberg School £dso is sential precursors to passing the instructors I've ever run across," Seafarers who want to ^uy the Hall Center for Maritime Training trying to make the book available 100-question exam which immedi­ said Sengelaub, who took the class course textbook should indicate and Education, P.O. Box 75, Piney for purchase directly from the ports this to the port agent whom they Point, Md. 20674, Attn: J.C. Weig- where the courses are scheduled. in Piney Point. ately follows the course. "Studying the book is a must. Regarding the course itself, contact when signing up for the man. The book will be sent by first Check with the individual port Without it, I don't see how anyone Sengelaub stated, "You certainly class. They should then send a class mail. (Be sure to indicate an agents to find out if the book is could pass the exam," observed have to stay alert at all times. I was check for $25, made payable to the address where the book should be available in advance at a particular QMED/Pumpman Ray Prim, who prepared, but there's still a lot of "Paul Hall Center," to: EPA sent.) hall. SIU: Foreign Ship Crew Standards Must Be Studied \?5'^ idi • -• / --V .'•: -; • -.-v., V 1, •;# ••••:«*- 'v:.- The Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (OPA 90) mandated that the Secretary of Transportation or his designees "evaluate the manning, training, qualifications and watchkeeping standards of a foreign country that issues documentation for any vessel" on a periodic basis and when a ship is involved in an accident. The law also requires the Secretary to determine if the licens­ ing and Certification standards for seamen of foreign nations which document vessels are "at least ^uivalent to United States law or international standards accepted by the United States...." The U.S. Coast Guard currently is considering how to implement this OPA 90 mandate. The agency asked for the thoughts of interested parties in a notice published in the Federal Register easly this fall. with ships calling on U.S. ports. • Analyze each country's en­ forcement mechanisms in these areas. In particular, for foreign na­ tions that allow shipowners to hire non-national crewmembers, the agency should find out how the na­ tion of a vessel's registry deter­ mines if foreign seamen meet its qualifications. • Make a comparison between the legal and regulatory require­ ments of the foreign countries and those of the United States. • Make a comparison of the legal and regulatory requirements of the foreign countries with those of the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certifica­ tion and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (1978) (STCW), a set of procedures established by the United Nations' International Maritime Organization, which have been adopted by the majority of nations with ship registries, in­ cluding the United States. • As part of the analysis of crew qualifications, the Coast Guard should determine the al­ cohol abuse testing, drug abuse testing and criminal record checks to which crewmembers on foreignflag ships are subjected; Comprehensive initial Study In a November 22 letter outlin­ ing the SIU's recommendations on this matter, the union's executive vice president, Joseph Sacco, said the SIU "believes that unless the agency conducts an extensive ini­ tial study, the effort to determine if a foreign country's standards in these areas are equivalent to those of the United States will prove meaningless." Sacco asked that the Coast Guard do the following: What Is 'Acceptable?' • Compile the legal and The union's letter noted that the regulatory requirements for man­ Coast Guard "should not necessari­ ning levels, crew training, crew ly equate international conventions qualifications and watchkeeping to acceptable U.S. standards." procedures of each foreign country "The test for acceptability /• should not be the ratification of the STCW by the United States. Rather, the test should be whether the United States has implemented the STCW's standards," Sacco said. "[T]he only acceptable stand­ ards should be those which are in effect for U.S. seamen," whether they are STCW regulations or Coast Guard requirements, noted the union's communication. The SIU recognizes that the in­ tent of OPA 90 is to ensure that U.S. waters are subjected to the least risk possible of a marine oil spill casual­ ty. The law sought to diminish the role of human factors in causing accidents. That is why the law re­ quires that merchant mariner docu­ ments be renewed, that American seamen be subject to stringent al­ cohol and drug abuse reviews and criminal record checks and that the number of continuous hours worked aboard a vessel be limited, Sacco noted. Safety = Equal Standards Since only a fraction—2.7 per­ cent—of tanker export and import cargoes are carried on U.S.-flag ships, "it makes no sense for the vast majority of tank ships travers­ ing U.S. waters to carry crewmem­ bers who meet significantly lower standards than those carrying 2.7 percent" of the nation's oil, Sacco said. "If the human factor contribu­ tion to marine casualties, is to be kept at its lowest possible number, then the crew qualifications and other crew-related standards of seamen on the ships that make up the other 97.3 percent of the tanker traffic in American waters must be subjected to similar requirements, enforcement mechanisms and public scrutiny applied to American seamen and American shipowners," he added. He also noted that several provisions of OPA 90 apply equally to foreign-flag and American-flag tankships, including the require­ ment that tankers have double hulls after a certain date. Evidence Points to Need Additionally, there is much evidence that points to the need for a "careful, thoroughly researched study" of the standards of manning, crew training and qualifications and watchstanding procedures throughout the world's fleet, the SIU's letter stated. "The industry press reports a lack of seafarer training worldwide, noting that any dip in freight rates can mean cuts in training funds. Shortages of seamen are projected in the world fleet, causing specula­ tion that the pressure will be on for bodies, be they qualified or not. Seamen report that in many areas of the world, seaman's papers for any position—from able seamen to cap­ tain—are for sale. The qualification for such licenses and certificates is ability to pay, not navigational skills," Sacco added. Concluding the SIU's com­ ments, Sacco said, "These trends indicate the need for close scrutiny on the part of the U.S. Coast Guard. The agency must know the answer to questions like: How can the American public be assured that U.S. waters will not be polluted through the act of a group of un­ trained, unqualified seamen on a foreign-flag ship? How can the American public be assured that an intoxicated seaman on a foreignflag ship who commits one error will not be allowed to sail on another vessel entering U.S. waters?" Final Rule Due in '96 The goal, Sacco said, should be nothing short of requiring all tankers operating in American waters to maintain the safest pos­ sible operations in the areas of man­ ning, training, crew qualifications and watchkeeping standards. The Coast Guard will take into consideration the comments it received from interested parties, in­ cluding the SIU, on the agency's role in implementing the OPA 90 requirement that the manning, training, qualifications and watchkeeping standards of foreign nations with ships operating under their flag be evaluat^ periodically. The Coast Guard also will address OPA 90's additional mandate that calls for a determination if the crew licensing and certification procesr ses of those countries are equivalent to those of the United States or meet U.S.-accepted inter­ national standards. After publishing a notice of proposed rulemaking in June 1995, the agency hopes to have a final rule in place in 1996. •f �•• V DECEMBER 1994 SEAFARBISL06 Union Urges Coasi Guard to Enact Rules To Protect Oil Spill Vessel Mariners Concerned that crewmembers of oil spill response vessels be properly protected fi^om shipboard hazards such as fires and ex­ plosions, the SIU recommended that the U.S. Coast require all mariners working on such ships to be trained in handling dangerous materials. SIU Executive Vice President Joseph Sacco, in the letter outlining the union's position to the agency, also suggested that all oil spill response vessel mariners hold Coast Guard-approved firefighting and first aid (including cardio-pulmonary resuscitation) certificates. Safe Working Environment The SIU's proposals were raised in Sacco's November 3 letter to the Coast Guard in response to its notice of a proposed rulemaking on inspection and certification stand­ ards for oil spill vessels of less than 500 gross tons. Noting that the SIU represents seamen currently employed on oil spill recovery vessels, Sacco called on the Coast Guard to ensure that all efforts are made to create the safest working environment pos­ sible in a situation in which the handling of flammable or combus­ tible liquids can result in catastrophic fires or explosions and the exposure to toxic fumes can lead to severe respiratory problems. Since human error accounts for a large portion of marine casualties, Sacco said it is imperative that ship­ board personnel "receive thorough training to ensure that they can per­ form highly technical and complex operations safely." Sacco noted that SIU members attend a hazardous material tech­ nician course, which is approved by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). He recommended that all mariners working aboard oil spill recovery vessels hold such a HAZWOPER certificate. Safe Shipmates The SIU recognizes that every crewmember would like to hold a high degree of confidence in the skills and abilities of his or her fel­ low shipmates. To this end, the SIU urges the Coast Guard to require all personnel on board oil spill recovery vessels to hold merchant mariner documents, irrespective of the tonnage of the vessel or the individual's particular job clas­ sification. "Imposing this requirement on all persons employed aboard these vessels will afford the Coast Guard the opportunity to maintain over­ sight over these mariners and the wherewithal to suspend or revoke documents for cause," Sacco said. Rule In Late'95 After reviewing the comments received by the SIU and those received from other groups and in­ dividuals, the Coast Guard wif issue a notice of proposed rulemak­ ing in January 1995. An additional comment period will accompany that notice. A final rule will most likely be implemented in the latter part of '95. Not only will the rule cover the issues raised by the SIU concerning mariners working aboard oil spill response vessels, but it also will detail inspection and certification procedures for this kind of marine equipment. APL Flags Out 6 New Ships Continued from page 4 In a move that demonstrates the tenuousness of the EUSC theory, MarAd also insists that the six APL ships be enrolled in the agency's Voluntary Intermodal Sealift Agreement which can be activated in behalf of the Department of Defense in times of crisis. Oakland, Calif.-based APL is prohibited from scrapping or reflagging any of its 19 U.S.-flag ships receiving government sub­ sidies prior to October 1, 1995. To scrap or reflag after that date, APL must receive MarAd approval. Delivery for the first of the six ships, known as C-11s, is scheduled for May 1995. The rest will be put into service before November of the same year. The original APL application to MarAd for flagging out the six ships, each with a 4,800 TCU capacity, was filed in July 1993. The company asked for a waiver of Section 804(a) of the Merchant Marine Act of 1936 in order to operate vessels under a forei^ ship registry in the U.S. trades despite being a government-sub­ sidized American shipping com­ pany. This year, the company asked that the application be expedited. 13 , -- Coast Guard Seeks Input from Industry On Vessel Inspection Compliance Programs What are the essential elements of a shipboard safety management, system? That is one of the questions the U.S. Coast Guard would like answered by individuals, organizations and companies associated with shipping in the United States. "^e agency, through a public meeting on November 7 and by solicit­ ing public comments, is looking for recommendations from the industry on alternative inspection compliance programs as part of its effort to streamline and reform cumbersome and out-of-date regulations. The Coast Guard is developing programs by which American-flag ship operators can demonstrate that their ships meet certain design standards, construction requirements, equipment and operational regimes. The agency is considering allowing vessel owners, operators and authorized third parties to conduct checks and tests on. these matters. But before allowing these groups to do this, the agency believes a vessel owner or operator must have a strong system of safety management in place. Thus, the Coast Guard is seeking comments on what should be the charac­ teristics of a strong safety management system. Also among the issues the Coast Guard has raised are: How does a company get its safety management system qualified or accepted? Should a company's safety system be certified by an independent group? Should the Coast Guard do spot checks such as random boardings? What constitutes satisfactory inspection and testing procedures? What qualifica­ tions are required for persotuiel performing tests and inspections? Comments are due by December 7 and should be sent to Executive Secretary; Marine Safety Council (G-LRA); U.S. Coast Guard; 2100 Second Street, SW; Washington, D.C. 20593-0001. Note on the submis­ sion that it refers to docket number CGD 94-080. NL Sea-Land to Move Its Corporate HQ To Charlotte, North Carolina Sea-Land Services Inc. announced this fall that it will move its corporate headquarters from New Jersey to Charlotte, N.C. The U.S.-flag shipping company will consolidate its top management operations in Charlotte, Sea-Land announced. The company's top managers, currently located in Liberty Comer and Elizabeth, N.J., Seattle and Rotterdam, will be transferred to Charlotte as Sea-Land reorganizes its highest management structure in conjunction with the move. By sununer 1995, the switch of corporate headquarters is expected to be complete. The company said the move will not affect its sales, documentation and customer service staffs. J/ d/ 16 Ships Fail Safety Tests Imposed by British Authorities Often citing inadequate life-saving and firefighting equipment, the British government prevented 16 ships calling at United Kingdom ports solidarity with their brother seamen of Israel. from sailing in October, the nation's Department of Transport said last The Israeli Sea Officers Union (ISOU) is protest­ month. ing the lack of a contract and Zim's intransigence at As part of an intensified maritime safety program following the Braer the bargaining table. The ISOU cites Zim's increased disaster, the British government began publishing the names of substan­ profits and reports that the company will soon be dard ships which it had detained after inspections in that nation's ports. offering stock in its enterprise to the public. Yet, the The British Department of Transport also reveals the names of the company asks crewmembers to take cuts, notes the vessels' owners and operators, their flags and the classification society ISOU. which inspects them. Also, the ISOU is opposed to moves by the com­ Among the vessels detained in October were a Cypriot-flag fish factory pany to flag-out its fleet. Noting that sever^ of Zim's ship with a broken radio transmitter, among other problems, a Russian ships have been transferred from the Israeli-flag to general cargo ship with holes in the bulkhead and structural cracks and a foreign-flags, the ISOU is attempting to build support Ukrainian tanker that did not have an oily water separator. Also stopped were a Honduran-flag general cargo ship, a Cypriot-flag bulk carrier, another for a strong Israeli-flag fleet. Russian-flag cargo vessel, a Tunisian-flag general cargo ship, a Maltese-flag cargo ship and an Indian-flag bulk cargo ship. Two European vessels were halted in the inspection process—a Danish-flag roll-on/roll-off passenger ferry and a Netherlands-flag general cargo vessel. The flag state with the most offenses was Bulgaria. Five Bulgarianflag fish factory ships failed their safety inspection as a result of broken lifeboats, unusable firefighting equipment, poorly maintained enginerooms and cockroach infestation. J/ Panel Finds that Estonian Ro/Ro Sank When Bow Door Was Ripped Off by Storm The September 28 sinking of an Estonian-flag ferry in which close to 900 people lost their lives was attributed to a combination of faulty design and unusually forceful 33-foot waves by a panel investigating the accident. "It looks now like it was the force of the waves that tore the bow door off. It happened very quickly, perhaps in a minute," said Tuomo Karpinen a member of the investigating conunission in a state­ ment issued in Helsinki, Finland. The 56-foot cargo door split from the ship in the "kind of waves that ... only happen one or two days in a year," said Karpinen. In front of the Z/m Keelung, docked in gizabeth Transporting more than 1,000 ^ople and dozens of cars and trucks, NJ,,SIUrepresentahvesSpiro V^ the German-built Estonia was on its way to Stockholm from Estonia's Aquia show SIU solidanty with the ISOU. capital, Tallinn, when after 1:00 a.m. the roll-on/roll-off vessel went down in less than 30 minutes. The "overloading of the waves could have been enough" to exacer)ate the poor design of the vessel, said Karpinen. He also ruled out that the bow door had been left open. "The bow door was firmly shut when it was ripped off by the storm." The commission's technical expert said the bow door had not exlibited any wear or damage. "In retrospect, it is easy to say that the Estonia's speed was too high. But you cannot blame the captain or the shipping company, since there is no clear information about how much pressure) this kind of ship can take," said Boije Stenstrom to the Swedish press. Stenstrom's comments also were reported in The Journal of Commerce. Israeli Sea Officers Continue Job Actions Several of Zim Israel Navigation Co.'s ships have been held up by job actions executed by members of the Israeli Sea Officers Union. Last month, the Zim Canada was delayed in the port of Yokohama, Japan. Another ship was prevented from loading for several hours in Barcelona, Spain. In Elizabeth, N.J., the Zim Keelung could not undock until the officers called off their job action. The Israeli seamen were suported in their efforts by the Japanese and Spanish maritime unions. The Japanese Seamen's Union pledged full cooperation in advance and then supported the effort in Yokohama. In Elizabeth, Seafarers were on hand to demonstrate SIU Steward Tom Vanyi (left) and Bosun J. Marine!10 announce the union's support for the Israeli seamen conducting a job action against Zim. • 'ft' 'M Fjg. - -'-i' tjP- �DECEMBER 1994 14 SEAFARERS LOG Mmnbeiship MeeUng Dates Set fw 19^ Seafarers' plans are but a few of the topics brought up this year at the monthly meet­ ings at SIU halls throughout the country. Article XXIII of the SIU constitution sets out where and when meetings are con­ ducted and who should run tfiem. The Many issues of importance to Seafarers are covered each year during the member­ ship meetings. Maritime revitalization programs before the U.S. Congress, union organiz­ ing campaigns and updates from the preamble also notes the importance, when ashore, of attending meetings to serve the union for those who are at sea and there­ fore unable to attend. Members are asked to clip the schedule below and post it on their ships or keep it for personal reference throughout the year. Also, Seafarers can refer,to each issue of the Seafarers LOG which lists the dates for the next two meetings scheduled in each port. 1995 Membership Meetings Port Traditional Date January February March April May June Piney Point Mortday after first Suralay 3* 6 6 3 8 5 New York Tuesday after first Sunday 3 7 7 4 9 6 5* 8 Philadelphia Wednesday after first Sunday 4 8 8 5 10 7 5 Baltimore Thursday after first Sunday 5 9 9 6 11 8 Norfolk Thursday after first Sunday 5 9 9 6 Jacksonville Thursday after first Sunday 5 9 9 6 San Juan Thursday after first SurKlay 5 9 9 Algonac Friday after fpt Sunday 6 10 Itouston. Monday after secorvl Sunday 9 New Orleans Tuesday after second Sunday Mobile July August September October i.; November December 2 6 4 5 3 7 5 9 6 4 8 6 10 7 5 9 7 8 6 10 7 5 9 7 11 8 6 10 7 5 9 7 6 11 8 6 10 10 7 12 9 7 11 8 13 13 10 15 12 10 14 ; 11 10 14 14 11 16 13 11 15 12 Wednesday after second Sunday 11 15 15 12 17 14 12 16 13 Duluth Wednesday after second Sunday 11 15 15 12 17 14 12 16 13 11 15 13 • San Francisco Thursday after second Sunday 12 16 16 13 18 15 13 17 14 12 16 14 St. Louis Friday after second Sunday 13 17 17 14 19 16 14 18 15 13 .17 Honolulu Friday after second Sunday 13 17 17 14 19 16 14 18 15 13 Wilmington Monday after third Sunday 17* 21* 20 17 22 19 17 22* 18 16 20 18 New Bedford Tuesday after third Sunday 17 21 21 18 23 20 18 22 19 17 21 19 Jersey City Wednesday after third Sunday 18 22 22 19 24 21 19 23 20 18 22 20 Seattle Friday after third Sunday 20 24 24 21 26 23 21 25 22 20 24 22 I. :• 9 6 10 ' 7 13* 8 13 "'•''•I1-';v' 14 12 :/,ll;':4. ;,;;::i5:;:v,.- 13 15 * Piney Point changes created by New Year's Day and Labor Day holidays; New York change created by Independence Day holiday; Algonac change created by Veterans' Day holiday; Wilmington changes created by Martin Luther King's Birthday, Presidents' Day and Paul Hall's Birthday holidays. . ——=—^ —===—— ^^ Celebrate the liciidays: Apply fcr a Scholarship The holiday season is upon us. We a copy of the booklet, fill out the coupon often get so wrapped up in buying or below and mail it to the Seafarers Wel­ making gifts for others that we forget fare Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp about ourselves. Springs, MD 20746. Completing the application form is What better way to celebrate the holidays than by giving ourselves the not very difficult; however, it will take gift of knowledge by applying for one of some time to gather all the other neces­ seven scholarships to be awarded in sary paperwork which must accompany 1995 by the Seafarers Welfare Plan. the application form. This includes: The deadline for receiving the ap­ plication is April 15, 1995, so four • an autobiographical statement, months still remain to get the process in D photograph, full swing. d certified copy of birth certificate, Of the seven scholarships that will be CH high school transcript and certifica­ awarded in 1995, three are reserved for tion of graduation or official copy of SIU members (one in the amount of high school equivalency scores, $15,000 for a four-year scholarship to a college or university, and two $6,(X)0, n college transcripts, two-year scholarships for study at a n letters of reference and vocational school or community col­ lege). The other four scholarships will be D SAT or ACT results. awarded to spouses and dependent Some schools can be slow in handling children of Seafarers. Each of these four transcript requests, so applicants should is a $15,000 stipend for study at a four- ask for them as soon as possible. year college or university. Once all the paperwork has been com­ Eligibility requirements for Seafarers pleted and the application form is filled and their spouses and unmarried depend­ out, the entire package should be sent to ents are spelled out in a booklet which the Seafarers Welfare Plan on or before contains an application form. To receive April 15,1995. Mail in this coupon for more application details. please send me the 1995 SIU Scholarship Program booklet which con• tains eligibility information, procedures for applying and the application form. Name. Book Number Address City, State, Zip Code. Telephone Number _ This application is for:• Self • Dependent Mail this completed form to Scholarship Program, Seafarers Welfare Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. \2m _J �OB^HBB11994 SEAFARERS LOG Lundeberg School Supplement IS This handy version of the Lundeberg School's catalog is printed in the Seafarers LOG as a convenience to SIU members. Please keep for reference. <995 Lundeberg School Course Guide Wv r For today's Seafarer^ upgrading at the majority of classes. Seafarers may note a Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training special, increased emphasis in hands-on and Education in Piney Pointy Md. is as training. essential as knowing how to climb a In planning for '95, Seafarers may use gangway or man a lifeboat. this special supplement of the Seafarers By remaining up-to-date on constant LOG to review courses offered by the technological and regulatory changes in Lundeberg School. On page 18, the the maritime field,the Paul Hall Center's school's 1995 schedule is published. It Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship should be noted that, on occasion, be­ provides Seafarers with opportunities to cause of the manpower needs ofSIU-conimprove their knowledge and ratings tracted operators, course dates may and to hone their work skills—which change. Therefore, Seafarers should con­ consequently increases their earning tinue to consult each monthly edition of power. the LOG for the most up-to-date In 1995, the Paul Hall Center offers a schedules. schedule which includes several new Brief summaries of the courses follow. courses and many others which have been Eligibility requirements vary from course updated or expanded to better prepare to course, so any member interested in Seafarers for unlicensed shipboard jobs upgrading should first check with the in the deck, engine and steward depart­ Lundeberg School's admissions office. ments. Most courses lead to U.S. Coast For more information, contact the Guard endorsements. Also available are Paul Hall Center, P.O. Box 75, Piney IFirefighting (top photo) and classes which prepare students to test for Point, MD 20674-0075; telephone (301) "sensed shipboard ratings. In the rast 994-0010. • ' •; , Recertification programs for stewards (top photo) and bosuns are included in the '95 curriculum. DECK DEPARTMENT COURSES Able Seaman lifeboat launching and recovery, basic compass navigation, life raft construction, life raft launching and maintenance, and use of all lifeboat and life raft equipment. Additionally, students learn dif­ ferent survival methods and the use of emergency radio and dis­ tress signals. A minimum of three hours per day is spent outdoors in lifeboats conducting practical exercises such as rowing/coxswain training and davit operations. This 12-week course leads to endorsement as an able seaman (AB). It consists of hands-on train­ ing and classroom work covering deck seamanship, rules of the road, marlinespike seamanship, helrnsmanship, cargo handling, safety, firefighting, emergency procedures, first aid, underway and vertical replenishment, and crane and forklift truck operations. The course also includes exten­ sive sections on oil spill contain­ ment and cleanup, as well as Bridge Management sealift operations and main­ tenance. Students must have a The U.S. Coast Guard-ap­ lifeboat ticket in order to take proved shiphandling simulator the AB course. course provides realistic bridge watchstanding training for deck personnel aboard both deep sea Lifeboat/Water Survival and inland vessels. Successful completion of this Students in this two-week course can eam lifeboatman cer­ two-week course is accepted as tification by passing a U.S. Coast credit for 60 days of seatime on Guard exam at the end of the vessels of unlimited tonnage. Special areas of skills develop­ class. Featuring a mix of practical training and classroom instruc­ ment include general shiphan­ tion, the course covers emergen­ dling and helmsmanship, river cy drills, lifeboat construction. and channel transits, entering and departing various ports, coastal waterway and river navigation road, shipbuilding, ship stability, cargo handling, federal regula­ navigation, U.S. Navy-related and piloting. tions, first aid, CPR and firefight­ operations such as Convoy and ing. underway replenishment, hawser Limited License/License Prep towing, pushboat towing and emergency shiphandling. Students must have an AB en­ Aimed at preparing students to dorsement and 540 days of seatime test for any limited tonnage license, this six-week course con­ on an SlU-contracted vessel OR Radar ObserverAJnlimited sists of classroom instruction in all equivalent Inland experience In areas of terrestrial navigation, order to take the limited The two-week radar obdeck seamanship, rules of the license/license prep exam. sen/er/unlimited class leads to a radar observer endorsement that is good on vessels of any tonnage. Approved by the U.S. Coast Guard, the course features handson training and classroom wor1<, in­ more in-depth study of the science cluding radar theory, observation, Study Skills Program and technology of their field. The operation and use, interpretation Proficiency in one's occupation Paul Hall Center offers two As­ and plotting, advanced radar plot­ can come not only from courses sociates of Applied Science ting, collision avoidance and covering the technical aspects of degrees: Marine Engineering Tech­ navigational exercise. one's job, but also from advancing nology for engine department Students operate modern members and Nautical Science for audio-visual and radar simulation one's study skills and knowledge of deck department personnel. If you gear, as well as the full shiphan­ the language. The Paul Hall Center are in the deck or engine depart­ dling simulator, as they practice offers an array of courses to assist ment, you already have earned controlling and maneuvering a Seafarers with basic study skills credit toward a degree. Call the Paul and basic learning procedures. vessel, plotting courses and safe­ Hall Center for more information. ly guiding a ship without jeopard­ (Please note that enrollment for In addition to vocational cour­ izing the safety of other vessels. courses in the study skills program ses, students must coniplete a Also included are practical exer­ no longer is open-ended.) Among the courses and areas number of general education cises and lectures covering inland courses to earn one of these of study available are: Adult Basic Education (ABE) degrees. Day and evening cour­ — Basic skills in this eight-week ses are available. The class course include individualized in­ schedule depends on enrollment, struction to increase vocabulary, but three eight-week sessions of reading comprehension, writing college courses are planned for 1995. These sessions will cor­ ability and math skills. English as a Second Lan­ respond with dates of many voca­ guage (ESL) — If English is not a tional courses, so that students student's primary language, this may enroll in an evening college eight-week course can help him or class during the same time. General education courses her to master the fundamentals of cover the following topics: English. GEO Preparation — This 12- developmental writing, analytical week program will help students reading and reasoning, composi­ prepare for and take the GEO tion and rhetoric, composition and exam. Areas of study include literature, developmental math, math, writing, social studies, college math, principles of psychology, general physical science, literature and the arts. science and physics. ADDITIONAL COURSES _ • 4 . 's'I "i Note: If current or former stu­ dents want to obtain transcripts of credits earned at the Paul Hall Cen­ Deck and engine department ter, they should submit the request, Seafarers can augment their un­ In writing, to the Paul Hall Center in derstanding of their work by a care of Chris Tennyson. The two-week lifeboat/water survival course features a mix of practical training and classroom instruction Deck and Engine Department College Courses :§• • - �16 1994 SEAFARERS LOG ENGINE DEPARTMENT COURSES four-stroke cycle operating prin­ and controllers, AC motors and and be certified as a QMED-Any ciples; and the construction, controllers, deck machinery, Rating or have equivalent inland This 11-week course leading operation, maintenance, repair motor generator sets, converters, experience, or hold endorsement The curriculum for certification and endorsement as a Qualified to endorsement as fireman/water- and troubleshooting of low-, inverters and rectifiers, electric as a pumpman. Member of the Engine Depart­ tender and oiler (FOWT) features medium- and high-speed diesel propulsion systems and interior communications systems. ment (QMED)-Any Rating con­ new and expanded segments of engines. Also, the course will include an Also covered are associated Refrigeration Technician sists of a 12-week course leading hands-on training, as well as introduction to solid state auxiliaries including intake and Certification to the following ratings: classroom instruction. Topics pumpman, refrigeration engineer, covered include the parts of a exhaust systems, lubrication and electronic controls, and their ap­ This one-week course leads to electrician, machinist, deck en­ boiler, engine room equipment, cooling systems, and fuel injec­ plications, and the general main­ tenance responsibilities of the certification as a refrigeration gineer, junior engineer and deck engine room procedures, operat­ tion and starting systems. Students receive practical electrician, as well as technician. Practical training and ing auxiliary equipment, engine mechanic. training in the operation and repair troubleshooting and repair. classroom instruction are utilized The course of instruction lead­ watchstanding, starting and of diesel engines on board school to cover refrigerants and com­ ing to an endorsement in each of securing main engines, firefightthese ratings consists of class­ ing, first aid, safety procedures, training vessels. pressor lubricating oils, refrigerant Refrigerated Containers Course entry requirements room work as well as practical sealift operations, oil spill preven­ handling safety, environmental Maintenance tion and containment and more. are QMED-Any Rating or training. impact of refrigerants, refrigera­ equivalent inland experience. The class prepares students This four-week course leads to tion theory, use of pressurefor U.S. Coast Guard general certification in refrigerated con­ temperature charts, general Power Plant Maintenance safety, oiler and fireman/watertainers maintenance and consists provisions of laws governing use Marine Electrical tender tests. of both classroom and practical and handling of refrigerants, ser­ The majority of this new, sixMaintenance I shop training. The training ex­ vicing considerations, conversion week course features hands-on perience enables students to as­ of CFC equipment and more. The six-week course of in­ training, covering a variety of Welding struction leading to certification in sume the duties of a maintenance Upon successful completion of topics. Some classroom work also Classroom instruction and on- Marine Electrical Maintenance I electrician on board ships carrying this course, students will receive an is included. Subjects include Environmental Protection Agency pipefitting, thermal insulation, he-job training comprise this four- consists of practical training and refrigerated containers. Students receive training in all (EPA)-approved refrigeration tech­ valve repair, pump repair/over­ week course, which features classroom instruction aimed at haul, hydraulic system repair, drill­ 9ractical training in electric arc providing the basic skills required phases of refrigerated container nician certification card. ing/machine thread fabrication, welding and cutting and oxy- of shipboard electricians. The unit operation, maintenance, use of various epoxies and similar acetylene brazing, welding and range of topics includes basic repair and trouble-shooting. This Refrigeration System Main­ compounds for emergency and cutting. Upon completion of the electrical theory, DC and AC cir­ includes the various types of en­ tenance and Operations temporary repairs, maintenance course, a Lundeberg School cer­ cuits, electrical safety, electrical gines, refrigeration and electrical of power transmission equipment tificate of graduation will be is­ test equipment and troubleshoot­ systems. Now an elective, this six-week ing, electrical protective and (such as flexible couplings), use sued. The course is designed to help class blends practical and class­ switching devices, electrical of proper oils and greases for students develop a systematic ap­ wiring diagrams and schematics, proach to troubleshooting, as well room instruction leading to cer­ bearing maintenance and lubrica­ control and power circuits, bat­ as to acquaint them with specific tification in refrigeration system Hydraulics tion, reconditioning shell and tube maintenance and operations. teries, AC generation and distribu­ heat exchangers, centrifugal lube The curriculum in the four - tion equipment, transformers, maintenance procedures. Among the topics covered are oil/fuel oil purifier maintenance, week hydraulics course blends theory of mechanical refrigera­ and removal of heavy equipment practical training with classroom lighting systems and fixtures, gal­ tion, major system components, ley and miscellaneous heating in the engine room. work. Fluids, actuators, control equipment, single-speed AC Pumproom Maintenance accessories, cycle controls, devices, pumps, reservoirs, sym­ motors and across-the-line and Operations refrigerants and oils, and applied bols and hydraulic systems in starters, and wiring techniques. electricity. Leading to certification in marine equipment are among the Standard service techniques subjects covered in this class. pumproom maintenance and are emphasized, such as the Also addressed are principles operations, this two-week class operation, troubleshooting and Marine Electricai of electrical control of hydraulic includes hands-on training and maintenance of ships' stores Maintenance II systems, cargo winches, deck classroom work. The curriculum plants, air conditioning plants, Aimed at providing the more consists of cargo properties and cargo ventilation and dehumidifycranes, anchor windlasses, ships' steering systems, ramps, fire advanced skills required of the emergency procedures, opera­ ing equipment, as well as pantry doors and a wide variety of other shipboard electrician, this six- tion and maintenance of valves refrigerators, water coolers and week course features hands-on and pumps, loading procedures, ice machines. shipboard systems. Upon completion of the course, training and classroom instruction cargo pump operations, cargo Hands-on shop training in­ a Lundeberg School certificate of and leads to certification in Marine measurement, discharging proce­ cludes the complete fabrication of Electrical Maintenance II. graduation will be issued. dures, ballasting procedures, tank a working refrigeration system Among the subjects covered cleaning, inert gas systems and from basic system components. are interpretation of the National more. An introduction to refrigerated Diesel Engine Technology Electrical Code, specialized container units also is presented. Upon completion of the course, electrical test equipment, ad­ Students must be certified as This four-week course, leading vanced application of circuit a Lundeberg School certificate of QMED-Any Rating or have to certification in diesel ehgine protection and switching devices, graduation will be issued. equivalent inland experience or technology, consists of classroom relay logic, complex control cir­ In order to take this class, stu­ instruction and hands-on training. cuits, DC and AC generators, volt- dents must already have taken the hold Coast Guard endorse­ Certification in diesel engine tech­ Topics of instruction include ments as refrigeration engineer nology comes after successful diesel engine theory; two- and age regulators, electrical four-week Tanker Operations and electrician in order to enroll distribution hardware, DC motors course (described on next page) for this course. completion of a four-week course. QMED-Any Rating Fireman/Watertender and Oiler STEWARD DEPARTMENT COURSES Assistant Cook/Cook and Baker This 12-week course com­ bines classroom instruction with on-the-job training and other prac­ tical exercises. During the assistant cook sec­ tion, topics covered are the preparation, cooking and serving of vegetables, cooked salads, sandwiches, breakfast foods and night lunches. Emphasis is placed on the basics of food preparation, including sanitation, dietary values, work organization, weigh­ ing and measuring, and the use of recipes. Topics covered during the cook and baker section include the baking of breads, rolls, pies, cakes, cookies and breakfast pastries. Students also focus on dessert and breakfast prepara­ tions. designed to help students finetune their skills by learning and practicing some of the more dif­ ficult aspects of the art of cooking. Topics include cooking methods, seasonings and flavorings, recipe and menu planning, stocks, sauces and soups, meat and game, poultry, seafood, starches, vegetables, breakfasts, salads, sandwiches and hors d'oeuvres. Students also focus on nutri­ tion and diet, with special em­ phasis on low-fat and low-salt cooking. Chief Steward This 12-week course includes classroom instruction supple­ mented by on-the-job training. Menu planning, work organiza­ tion, typing, inventory control and requisitioning procedures are among the topics covered. Sanitation, nutrition and safety also are highlighted. Chief Cook Leadership and communica­ Leading to certification as a tion skills also are stressed in the chief cook, this 12-week class is intensive 12-week course. New Eligibility Requirements In Place for steward upgrading The Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education recently announced the follow­ ing new eligibility requirements for steward department courses: • Assistant Cook/Cook Baker Students must have eight months sailing in the steward department and fiold a certifi­ cate of completion for the Paul Hall Center entry rating program OR Students must have 12 months sailing in the steward department. • ChtefCook Students must have one year of seatime sailing in any rating above steward assistant and hold a certificate of completion for the Paul Hall Center's new Assistant Cook/Cook Baker program OR Students must have two years of seatime sailing in the steward department OR Students must have equivalent ex­ perience to be evaluated by the director of the steward department and the admissions of­ fice. • Chief Steward Students must have three years of seatime sailing in the steward department, with at least one year as chief cook (school time will count toward the one year) OR Students must have two years of seatime in the steward department and hold a Paul Hall Center certificate of completion for the chief cook course OR Students must have equivalent ex­ perience to be evaluated by the director of the steward department and the admissions of­ fice. �>•• .r.v , • DECEMBER 1994 ~ V-/; ;•'V-0 ?'-;Hs SEAFARERS LOG 17 ALL DEPARTMENTS: UPGRADING AND SPECIALTY COURSES All students attending upgrad­ ing programs at the Paul Hall Cen­ ter participate in certain courses as part of their regularly scheduled program. Sealift opera­ tions and maintenance, physical fitness, first aid and CPR, in­ dustrial relations and firefighting either are required or may be taken as elective courses by upgraders in all departments. Additionally, the new Tanker Operation/Safety course is re­ quired for all personnel who work aboard tankers (see description below). Tanker Operation/Safety This four-week course is open to all ratings and departments and is required for all personnel going aboard tankers. Steward depart­ ment personnel will attend the first two weeks of the course; deck and engine personnel will attend all four weeks. The class blends hands-on training with classroom instruc­ tion. Topics include tanker con­ struction and safety, the chemical and physical properties of petroleum products, flammability characteristics, toxicity/asphyxiation characteristics and health hazards associated with exjosure to petroleum products, tow to correctly monitor tanks for oxygen deficiency and take other meter readings with atmospheric monitoring equipment, creating site-specific shipboard safety plans and reviewing final rules on benzene products. Students also will learn troubleshooting and basic maintenance of monitoring gear, extensive confined-space safety training and rescue opera­ tions, fit-tests using respirators and other breathing apparatuses and emergency equipment, an in­ troduction to fire chemistry ano other aspects of firefighting Oncluding fire hazard awareness and identification), fire prevention via vapor control and ignition source control, fir'^ xtinguishing equipment, firefic t ng techniques and fire/emergency duties. Other areas of study include different types of oils, medical sur­ veillance, vessel oil pollution prevention, national pollution con­ tingency plans, water pollution, removal of oil and other hazard­ ous substances, rules for protect­ ing the marine environment, and more. Oil Spill Prevention and Containment Sealift Operations and Maintenance Because of the unique require­ ments of the military ships that are operated by SlU-contracted INLAND DEPARTMENT COURSES vj.,/v.-' • •: ^ -i • ..;=^;-'<-;-S#d.' tv''' €• -'' • Deck-iniand This two-week course includes some staples of deck department work but may be adapted to fea­ ture task-specialized training depending upon the needs of a particular SlU-contracted com­ pany. Navigation, general safety, wire-splicing, lifeboat training and rules of the road are among many topics which are available as part of the curriculum. Radar Observer/inland Sv- vV-v'^,'/.. A-r-r Earning a radar observer en­ dorsement in this five-day course fulfills the new U.S. Coast Guard regulation requiring towboat operators of 100- or 200-ton ves­ sels to hold radar certification. Developed mainly for mariners who work in the nation's inland and coastal waterways, the course includes practical and classroom work covering naviga­ tion and piloting, vessel traffic ser­ vice procedures, a review of the rules of the road, communication between vessels, plotting techni­ ques and other inland operations. Radar Observer/Rivers This three-day course is designed to give students a basic understanding of how radar works. It features sections on how to recognize moving contacts, communication between vessels and vessel traffic service proce­ dures. Designed primarily for mariners who work on ferries and other boats which only operate in rivers, the class also includes practical training in radar observa­ tion and use. in this two-week course is aimed at equipping tugboat engineers with the basic skills associated with diesel engine troubleshoot­ ing, diagnosis and repair. Specific topics include safety, tuneup procedures and as­ sociated adjustments, engine overhaul procedures (including cylinder heads, valve operating gear, piston assemblies and run­ ning gear, cylinders and structural framework, and various acces­ sory drives) and the troubleshoot­ ing and maintenance of various supporting systems including in­ take, exhaust, cooling, lube oil, starting and fuel injection. Skills in the use of precision measuring instruments, special­ ized tools and diagnostic equip­ ment are emphasized. Eiectricai Designed for experienced tug­ boat engineers who have little or no formal electrical training, this two-week course is structured to equip the engineer with those skills associated with electrical plant troubleshooting, main­ tenance and repair. Specific topics, covered both through practical and classroom instruction, include electrical safety, basic electrical theory, bat­ teries, generators, electrical dis­ tribution systems and hardware, lighting, electric motors and motor controls, electric meters, wiring diagrams and electrical schematics, circuit faults and troubleshooting techniques, and rotating machinery maintenance and repair. Hydraulics Engineroom Familiarization 0xm' -J • •• .•,•;•'• .^'. • Designed for prospective tug­ boat engineers, this two-week class provides instruction in the following areas: engineroom safety, engineering plant nomenclature, piping system hardware, afunctional description of main propulsion and auxiliary machinery and associated piping systems, iplant operations and watchkeeping, and safe handling of fuels and oil spill prevention. Diesel Engine Maintenance A combination of hands-on training and classroom instruction This two-week course iotherwise relatively experienced tug­ boat engineers who have little or no formal training in hydraulics. A mixture of hands-on instaiction and classroom lectures is aimed at equipping the engineer with those skills associated with hydraulic equipment troubleshooting, maintenance and repair. Specific topics include safety, basic hydraulic theory, hydraulic oils, hydraulic pumps and motors, actuators, control valves, hydraulic system piping and ac­ cessories^ and hydraulic systems and associated schematics. In- employers, this four-week course is mandatory for all upgraders. The course of instruction lead­ ing to the sealift operations and maintenance endorsement con­ sists of hands-on training and classroom work covering under­ way replenishment, helicopter operation familiarization, crane operation, forklift maneuvers, damage control familiarization and search and rescue boat operations. Upon completion of the course, a Lundet>erg School certificate of graduation will fc>e issued. eluded will be a functional description of the various tugboat hydraulic equipment applications, as well as a systems approach to troubleshooting. Welding The objective of this two-week class, designed for experienced tugboat engineers, is to provide the engineer with welding skills needed to accomplish temporary or emergency repairs while under­ way, as well as assist in planned boat or barge maintenance. Topics covered via practical training and classroom instruction include welding safety; oxyacetylene operations of cut­ ting, welding and brazing; and stick electrode welding (AC and DC). The various welding posi­ tions and weld types are covered, along with applications of steel welds and structural members, with an emphasis on typical tug­ boat or barge repairs. DDE/Limited License Preparation This one-week course consists of classroom, laboratory and onthe-job training exercises. Topics of instruction include types of oil and petroleum products and their behavior on water, pollution prevention regulations, spill preven­ tion, and small boat operations. Stu­ dents also receive instruction in spill containment booms and boom towing configurations and anchor­ ing operations. Also covered are selection of ab­ sorbents, suction equipment and skimmers and their proper use. Oil Spill Safety Recertlflcatlon Available for personnel who have completed 40- or 24-hpur hazardous materials (hazmat) courses and who must be annual­ ly recertified, this one-day class includes a regulatory oven/iew of Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) requirements, as well as reviews of toxology terminol­ ogy, medical monitoring instru­ ments and techniques, site-control and emergency preparedness, proper use of respiratory protection and monitoring equipment and new technology. First Aid and CPR knowledge of thechemistry of fire, firefighting equipment and materials and techniques for using them safely. Upgraders receive 16 hours of classroom training and eight hours of practi­ cal training. Upon successful completion of the course, students receive a U.S. Coast Guard-recognized certificate of graduation from the Lundeberg School. Advanced Firefighting After receiving a refresher in basic firefighting to start the twoweek course, students learn how to blueprint a vessel and organize emergency squads forfirefighting. The class covers how to give con­ cise orders using the different types of communications with crewmembers and land-based fire units. Students also study how to in­ spect and service various ship­ board fire extinguishing equipment before going through shipboard simulations and actual firefighting drills. Industrial Relations While attending upgrading courses at the Lundeberg School, all SlU members attend industrial relations courses for one week. Seafarers learn about the maritime industry and the role of U.S. shipping in the economy and in times of crisis. Also, par­ ticipants review the role of the SlU within the industry and the rights of Seafarers as outlined by the SlU constitution. Students gain an understanding of the various laws and legislative programs which promote a U.S.-flag merchant marine. Courses also are conducted to provide Seafarers with full infor­ mation on the many benefit plans available to qualifying members through the union's collective bar­ gaining agreements. •j. i r; •• '•• General Physical Fitness '- Students in this class learn the principles and techniques of safety and basic first aid, as well as cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) according to the accepted standards of the American Red Cross. After successful comple­ tion of each phase of this course, students are awarded a certifi­ cate from the American Red Cross. The U.S. Coast Guard places certain physical requirements on all mariners. To ensure the U.S.flag fleet physically-fit crewmem­ bers, the SlU encourages Seafarers to exercise properly. At the Paul Hall Center, workout programs are in­ dividually designed to meet the needs of the student. Students may participate in free weight. Nautilus or Universal weight training, which can be used to Basic Firefighting gain, lose or maintain body The basic firefighting course weight. Aerobic and swimming srovides students with general programs also are available. The two-week curriculum preparing students to take the exam for Designated Duty En­ gineer consists of both classroom instruction and practical training in all aspects of the duties of the tugboat engineer. System and component theory, operating pro­ cedures, maintenance and repair techniques and tcpubleshooting are emphasized,f Main propulsion plant instruc­ tion includes diesel engine theory and construction, watch opera­ tions and engine maintenance, engine governing and automat­ ion, fuel injection, starting and reversing, intake and exhaust, lubrication and cooling systems, as well as reduction gears, clutch­ ing, shafting and propellers. Auxiliary equipment instruction includes piping systems, pumps and compressors, heat ex­ changers, hydraulics and pneumatics, steering systems, deck machinery, boilers, refrigeration and aif conditioning equipment, evaporators, basic electricity, generators and motors, switchboards, batteries and electrical maintenance. Additional instruction is offered in all aspects of engineering Students leam to use the proper protective equipment for handling safety. hazardous materials. • a?:'' my. A". W t • -Ci- : • -m ?• '• ' '' '• ' �.;:^ V •'•'. A:; 18 •••'"• DECEMRER1994 SOFARERSLOG he following is the course schedule for the entire new year _ Janu^ through December 1995 of the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship, located at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. . The course schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the inudstry or the national interest. Seafarers should continue to consult each monthly edition of the Seafarers LOG for the most up-to-date course schedule. For additional information, contact the Seafarers Harrj^^undwerg School of Seamanship, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, Md. 20674-0075; telephone (301) 994-0010. i ju Additionally, once an upgrader takes a class or classes at the Lundeberg School, he or she will not be permitted to take additional upgrading classes before showing proof of at least 90 days' seatime since completing the previous course(s). Please note that students should check in the Friday before their course s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning ot the start dates. T Start Date Course QMED-Any Rating Diesel Engine Technology Refrigeration Technician Certification FiremanAVaterlender 5|S$Arf: & Oiler Hydraulics Marine Electrical Maintenance I Marine Electrical Maintenance U Power Plant Maintenance Pumproom Maintenance Refrigeration Systems & Maintenance Refrigerated Containers Welding •• ^ ^ - : J. v..i^ :J Oil Spill Prevention and Containment ' ' \ " Sealift Operations and Maintenance Date of Completion April? January 16 November 3 August 14 March 20 April 14 July 3 July 28 September 25 October 20 (to be announced) May 1 August 7 February 20 June 5 October 9 January 9 May 22 July 31 March 13 January 9 April 24 July 17 March 27 September 11 August28 July 14 October 20 March 24 July? November 10 February 17 June 30 September 8 April 21 February 17 June 2 August 25 April 7 September 22 October 6 April 24 February 20 April 24 October 23 May 19 March 17 May 19 November 17 Course Able Seaman Bridge Management (Sbipbandling) Lifeboatman . r f . ..v . Limited License/License Prep. Radar ObserverAJnlimited Date of Completion January 16 July 31 February 6 April 24 July 17 October 9 January 2 July 17 July 3 September 25 January 23 February 27 April 10 May 22 July 3 August 14 September 25 April 7 October 20 February 17 May 5 July 28 October 20 January 13 July 28 August 11 November 3 February 3 March 10 April 21 June 2 July 14 August 25 October 6 SaMy Specialty fkmses Course Advanced Firefighting Oil Spill Safety Recertification Start Date March 6 September 11 January 26 February 23 March 30 April 27 May 25 June 22 July 20 September 21 October 19 August 11 June 5 October 9 January 2 Januai^JO February 27 March 27 April 24 May 22 June 19 July 17 Augustl4 Septemberll October 9 November 6 June 30 November 3 January 27 February 24 March 24 April 21 May 19 June 16 July 14 August 11 Septembers October 6 Novembers December! Start Date Date of Completioitt ' 4 - , Course V • -4 Decklnland ;• ; , Diesel DDE/Limited License^ep. i- ,, Enginerooni Fanuliarizatiph Radar (Iiiland) Radar (Rivei^) Welding Electronics Hydraulics 4 'i; April 7 March 27 June 9 May 29 August 25 August 14 NovehiberS October 23 aifll March 10 February 27 April 7 March 27 June 30 June 19 November 10 October 30 February 10 January 30 ' <• . August 25 August 14:> May 12 May 8 November 10 November 6 : (to be announced) May 22 June 2 w-msmm July 17 July 28 September 25 October 6 • * t start •; Date Mayl ^ October 2 January 30 July 3 Course Bttsun Recertification StewaratlpgraOIng Courses start Date Assistant Cook/ Cook and Baker Chief Cook, Chief Steward Date of Completion ' ^ • rW®- June 5 November 6 March 6 August 7 - • ^-ill Dateof Cbmpietibn (to be announced) (to be announced) AMUkuial Courses s-iitf. The following courses are available through the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School. Please contact the admissions office for enrollment information. Study Skills Course Start Date January 30 Mayl August 22 Adult Basic Education (ABE) and January 30 English as a Second Language (ESL) April 3 June 5 September 5 GED Preparation Date of Completion April 21 July 21 November 10 March 24 May 26 July 28 October 27 Date of Completion March 17 September 22 January 26 February 23 < Recertification Programs Steward Recertification Start Date March 30 April 27 May 25 June 22 July20 September 21 October 19 August 7 Session! S^ion U Session in January 30 June.5 September 5 March 24 July 28 October 27 ^ -V. y V- - • ' • �• ;• DECEMBER 1994 1!W*J '•W SEAFMSRS LOG •li::i^-'' 19 M9^ tSi* SEASON'S FROM FELLOW SEAFARERS, PENSIONERS FRIENDS AND FAMILY MEMBERS The holiday greetings appearing on this page and the fotlowuing three pages are listed in alphabetical order by the name of the individual sending the message. The Seafarers LOG joins unth those appearing below in extending season's greetings to all Seafarers and their families. Happy Holidayt! To my loving husband, LIto Mahal, love is everything we share together because to me, love is and always will be you. 1 miss you so much, and even though we are miles apart, you are always thought of this holiday and a ways. Enjoy your Christmas and I will see you next year. Happy 12th aimiversary, Mahal. And thank you for the best 12 years of my life. Always, Minda (Luzviminda V. Acosta) To my family, In-laws and friends It's going to be so nice to spend the holidays with the people I care about most. Wishing you all the best and God bless. Love, Sonny R. Acosta TomywIfeLydIa Merry Christmas. I'll be coming home soon. 1 miss you. Hugs and kisses. Sonny R. Acosta To Jennifer Hussong Hi, cutie pie. Happy Holidays!!! RoyAldanese To all SlU brothers and sisters Happy holidays and best wishes toeveryone. May 1995 be a prosperous and eventful year for all. Remember, support the union and upgrade as soon as possible. Nat Allin To all active and retired mariners Merry Christmas and a very prosperous New Year. Wishing you and your families the best happy holidays. PeteM.Amper To all my brothers and sisters May you have the best of the holidays with unity, love and compassion, culminating in a prosperous New Year. SalAquia ToallLNGs My family and 1 wish you and your family a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Sal, Una, Tony, Sal and Elizabetta Aquia To Peter Bean Happy New Year! Are you still on this planet? Call and leave a message and your ad­ dress. I'm in the book in Asheville, N.C. Stephen Argay To all my Seafaring brothers and sisters I wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a very prosperous New Year in '95. Fair weather to you all and good seas as well. Cheers!! Jacki, Bobbi and Ronald Aubuchon To Keith Bennett We are thinking of you this holiday season. We'll have you home for Christmas next year. Merry Christmas. Love you, Karen, Bobbie, Leslie and Emery Bennett To Cheryl Campbell and family Merry Christmasand Happy New Year to the whole household in Byrdstown, Tenn. Kenneth "Sweetpea" Biddle TotheBolewareBoys Our prayers and love are with you always. Be careful and return home safe. The Boleware family To everyone Sending holiday cheer to all of our friends! We wish you a Merry Christmas and a 1995 filled with health, happiness and smooth sailing. God bless you all. Frank and Cynthia Bolton To Alfonso D. BombHa Jr. To nty loving husband, Al, and brotherJessie. We all wish you both a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year. Love and Kisses, Claire (Clarita U. Bombita) To all retired GLD members and port agents Reminiscing about the good old days from 1961 through 1981! Wishing you the quiet beauty of a peaceful, joyous holiday with the ones you love. Merry Christmas! Gerry Borozan To Steamboat Annie I hope to make the coming' years as special for you as you have made the past years for me. Happy Anniversary and Happy New Year! Tugboat Tim (Brenno) To Tugboat Tim Merry Xmas and happy twelfth anniversary to the man who has captured my heart and given me a beautiful home. Happy New Year, Timbo. Love you! Steamboat Ann (Brermo) To Chuck and Josle Menard Merry Xmas and Happy New Year to my wonderful parents in Ogdensburg, New York. Hope to see you soon.Take care and we love you! Anna Brenno To Peter Wllmoth Thanks for the good time 1 had with you at Turtle Bay and the merry memories. Philip Brochrum TotheARC Thanks for my sobriety,just for today! Happy New Year! It works, if you work it. So work it, you are worth it! Danny A. Brown To brothers and sisters of the sea, especially Kurt Bruer Happy holidays and good sailing. May the wind be always at your back. George Bruer To John K. Parker I'll be thinking of you over every day of the holiday season. You're my one and only lacrosse player, so don't worry. Love and miss you. Cathy (Bums) To the family of 3rd asst. engineer (In memory) 1 shipped out on the Liberty ship SS Edward H. Crockett on 7/20/44 for Murmansk, Russia. We arrived OK. When we left Russia, after two days at sea we were hit by a torpedo in the #4 hatch aft. The ship sank. Our only casualty was the 3rd asst. engineer. He was trapped in the engineroom and went down with the ship. He was getting married on our retuin to New York. He had raised a fiery red beard for the occasion. My heart goes out to his family for their great loss. That was 50 years ago but something I'll never forget. 1 would like to wish his family a very happy holiday season. Sincerely, George E. Bush ToTomCasey We love you and miss you. Wish you were here for the holidays in Fieldon, 111. Merry Christmas. Mary, J.R., Charles Jr., Angela and Laura (Casey) To Donna DeCesare,Tommy, MIkey, Dana, Kria, Eddie and the Geminicrew Have a wild and crazy Christmas wherever you all are! Donna, I've been trying to reach you. Call me at (412) 869-9321 in December. Hope you all get what you want this year! Merry Christmas. Love, Judi Chester To Dana, PattI, Dominique and George Here's wishing all of you a warm and wonderful Christmas and great New Year's celebration! With love, Judi Chester To my wife, Mrs. Jo Chrlstensen; friends Joe Ro^ & Red, Theresa & Charlie and Jo Ann & Stan Wishing y'all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Miss you and love you, your husband and friend, Chris (Robert A. Christensen) To all Seafarers 1 wish you all the best holiday season ever and a happy, prosperous New Year. Willie Cichocke To all Seafarers Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to the LOG office and all brotherSeaf^ers from oneold seaman who began going to sea at age 14. I'm presently retired and gardening at age86. My best wishes to you all. Domenic Cito and family To Miss Betty 1 asked Santa to bring you something very special because you are very special. We love you. Jioia (deLeon) and Sergio Castellanos To Georgia and Brent Nelson Merry Xmas to you both. I hope '95 brings you all tire love and happiness '94 brought me. Love, Jioia (deLeon) To Gloria Mellulsh Merry Xmas, girlfriend. Where are you and what are you doing? Can't wait to see you! Love, Jioia (deLeon) To Kevin Wray Hope you have a great holiday—just the way you like it. Well, we will miss you anyway. Brenda Delia To the oldtimers Season's greetings to Johnny Muyco, John Mitt6, George Sing and all my friends—^Jake Dusich, Juan Laguana, Dave Nunn, Cecil Gates and to those oldtimers who made the SIU what it is today. Lee de Parlier ti. '-I--':-"";.; ToJohnHoltschlag Happy holidays from your family on Bainbridge. XXX from your mother-in-law. Neil Dietz To Noel Lay Best wishes. We really miss you—from all the guys at Mama's. Neil Dietz To Brian Hulstrom (class #527) Good job with the Manitou. See you on the high seas. Merry Xmas. Chris Edwean (class If501) To Trainee Class #501 Happy New Year from Domenic Cito. Merry Christmas, guys! Write me at 1012 To Mike Ortiz LaBlonde Lane, Apt. 102, Hurley, W1 54534. Happy holidays, Mike. Haven't seen you in a Chris Edwean very long time. Hope you and your wife are doing fine. Always thinlung of you guys. Best wishes. To Joyce Ellis A warm and happy holiday greeting to the Your friend, woman who fills my life with so much joy and Fred Collins happiness. Season's greetings with love!! To Pernell Cook Sr. Albert Ellis Merry Christmas, dad. To all my friends We miss having you here to catch our balls. If you ever wish for a friend's advice, take And catching our bikes before we fall. this one: Upgrade at Piney Point. You are the greatest dad of all. UiisA. Escobar To us you will always stand ten feet tall. Love you with all our hearts, your triplets, To my beautiful daughters Pemell, Racquell and Lovell (Cook) Although 1 may be thousands of miles away from you on Christmas, you will be on my mind To Dawn andCarley Cooper with love. And I'm sending Santa with toys for Merry JChristmaS. I love you both very you to play with. Love, Dad (Uds Escobar) much!! Jason Cooper To all my family In Colombia To Loren Dekett Today 1 love you all more than yesterday but Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. We less than tomorrow. Sorry this is the 15th miss you IM Christmas without you. Love, Jason, Dawn and Carley Cooper Luis A. Escobar To Bobby Selzer,Maryann, Jack, Jack and KerTo Paula Evans mett 1 would give you the world if I could; you The crew of the Overseas Philadelphia have given so much love and support, our future wishes you the best holiday season to you and will be wonderful. Merry Christmas. your families. Happy holidays to all! Lonnie Evans Fred Collins and Patrick Coppola To Nlko, Trlcla, Lukas and Daniel Merry Christmas, my special children. I love To all Seafarers In the SlU May Christmas bring the biggest gift—the you all with my whole heart. Happy, happy Brotherhood of the Sea. Merry Christmas and holidays! Love, Daddy (Lonnie Evans) Happy New Year. May 1995 bring more ships and jobs. To Donald Dates Gerald Corelli and family Merry Christmas, brother! Drop me a line! I hope you're happy and have discovered there's a To Patrick Olln Pat, remember that party we had with Peter future full of happiness and opportunity. God and Philip? Those encounters will give us bless, brother. Lonnie Evans memories of our lifetimes!! Jack CUrtis To Anthony Evans Merry Christmas, Happy Birthday and Happy New Year! Love, Mom and Dad. Donna and Mike (Evans) ToJohn''Dirtch''DeBos Wishing you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. 'Thinking of you. With love, your wife, To Mr. and Mrs. William J. Fitzgerald Jeanne (De Bos) May you have a very Merry Christmas and a ToTony DeClcco Happy New Year. I'11 be thinking of you although Have a good holiday at work. I'll be thinking I won't be there. of you. Your brother, John F. Fitzgerald Joey (Joseph M. DeCicco) To mom. Dee Dee and Jason To SimeonF.Ureta Yokosuka is a lot different from Honolulu, isn't it? May all your wishes come true this, yoitf Happy and healthy holiday greetings. All our love. God bless. first Xmas in Japan. Miss and love you. The Flaspoller family Jioia (deLeon) '•Jk �20 DECEMRER1S94 SEAFARERS LOG ToJeffLaLande Best wishes and greetings to my favorite riephew, Jeff, and his family and friends. God bless you always. Richard W. Forgays To Brian Fountain Merry Christmas, Happy New Year. We're glad you're home, we're glad you're near. Christmas makes us happy as you can see When daddy's home and not at sea. Rachel, Justin, Cody and Emily (Fountain) JottielTBGroton Happy holidays and a safe New Year to the captain and crew. . The Fountain family To ail Seafaring members and their families May the holidays be joyous and happy times and the New Year be prosperous and healthy. God bless. Merry Christmas. Bobby Garcia To Mary Lou Lopez Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, Mary Lou. Looking forward to seeing you during the holidays. R.A. Garcia To all crews—aboard ship and ashore I am retired and miss the ships of 40 years ago. To all seamen, I hope you and yours have a happy holiday. And to all my old seamen friends who are retired, don't put off writing in for the vote for H.R. 4003. It's so important. Sidney Gamer To Brande, Dockery and Weegie Best of wishes to you and your families. See all of you in Reno. I love you all. Merry Christmas. Rebecca Gaytan To Ray, Sylvia and mom Best of holiday wishes to my beautiful fami­ ly. Thank you for all of your support and love. I love you all. Hello, daddy, we love you. Rebecca Gaytan To Rebecca Gayton To my precious sister, congratulations on becoming a merchant mariner and SIU member. I am so proud of you. I love you. Ray Gayton To Antoinette Strauch To my confidante and my sister. Thank you for your friendship, love and support. Ray Gayton To Antonia Gayton, my mom and friend Thank you for supporting me in my decision to become a merchant mariner. And thanks for the care packages. I love you. Ray Gayton To Scott, Samuel Mclntyre, Richard Larsen and ManeyWedell Merry Christmas, Scott. I hope you are enjoy­ ing life as a QMED. Samuel, thank you so much for introducing me to the SIU and to this world of travel. Richard, Merry Christmas. I love and miss you. Maney, thank you for keeping in touch and for your friendship. Ray Gayton To Klmberly Clark Merry Christmas. We love you and we miss you. Ray Gayton and Denise Akenson To Chris Mosley, Luis Gonzales, Romeo Qungua Merry Xmas and Happy New Year. Clodualdo Eddie Gomez To Sixto Rodriguez and family, Monserrate and Luz Maria Saliva, and Mariano Gonzalez and family Merry Xmas and Happy New Year to my friends. William Gonzalez To friends and shipmates I wanted to take this chance to say how much I enjoyed sailing around this huge planet with all of you. The Iriends I made in the few years I was in the union will be remembered and missed. I am attending college in California and will be transferring to a university soon (unbelievable!). 1 also wanted to thank the SIU for guiding me in the right direction and tuming my life around. Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. (p.s. Always remember the Sea-Land Shining Star!) Bill Gordon To John Russell Here I am over in England with a pint of ale, Don't you wish you had one right now! Have fun sailing over the holidays. Claude (Flash) Gordon To all Seafarers and their families Keep Christmas in your heart always. God bless you all. Love, The Gordian family To our wonderful children who are the special gifts from God Wishing God's greatest blessings throughout this season and your lives. Eula and Earl Gray Sr. Earl N. and Eula L. Gray wish everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. To Mrs. Eula L. Gray Wishing you eternal joy because you're God's gift to humanity who has given joy to others during your life. From your husband with love. Earl Nelson Gray Sr. To EarlN. Gray Jr. Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Eula Lee Gray To Earl N. Gray Sr., Captain Moore and Captain Gillespie The Gray family wishes you, and all workers on the Overseas Ohio, a happy holiday season. Eida L Gray To Mr. and Mrs. Ben Guttierez, Mr. and Mrs. Duseck Sr., Mr. and Mrs. Romy Luinancan, Spranza Brods, Cardel Dunn, Pat Lynch,Jim Anderson, Marcos and David Denizac Merry Xmas and Happy New Year. Hang on for more years to come. Eddie Gomez ToTomGrosskurth So how is your Christmas out at sea? I am home drinking a few brews in the local pub. I'll have one for you. Have a Merry Christmas. Your bro, John Grosskurth To SIU passengershipAf/anf/ccrewmembers Holiday greetings to all former steward department members. Walter Grosvenor To the Hanshe family Greetings my friends—the beast will return!! Happy holidays. I wish I could join the family gathering. Hope all is well. From aboard the LNG To Rodney J. Pence Loads of wishes for holiday cheer and plenty Capricorn, of happiness all through the year. Merry Chris Hanshe Christmas and Happy New Year. ToShari Sandra, Bill and Jackson family It's been another wonderful year with you Hope to be with you New Year's and for another To Terry Jacobsen Have a very Mer^ Christmas, daddy. We great year. I love you. love you! From you "lil' buddies," Lee(Hardman) Travis and Trent Jacobsen To Kevin Harris To SIU members worldwide Daddy, this is our second Christmas apart. Season's greetings to all my friends and ac­ But you're always in my heart. Love, quaintances this holiday season. Emily Joy Harris Joseph A. Jauregui To Michael Keith Sr. Sony that you couldn't be with us. Never To Fred J. Jensen All our love is with you this Christmas and forgotten. We'll have ours when you get back. we miss you very much. Take care and "Merry Have a safe trip. We love you. Christmas." We love you. Norma Higginbotham Sandra and Charles Jensen To the Hill family of Texas May God bless you all and let's remember our Savior's birth. Merry Christmas, all. I love y'all dearly. Billy Hill To Rhandele H. Dusich Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Love, Mommy (Darlene Hill) To Mike and Rosario Campbell, Mr. and Mrs. Dionisio Muycoand Leonard Ching and family Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!! Darlene Hill and Jake Dusich To Da Perry Ghana family Merry Xmas and all that good stuff to all of you. I'll be in after the New Year. Love and Aloha, your sista, Jonelle Kealoha (Perry) To Gloria Keith, James Keith III, Bubba, Pat Smith and Mike Keith I wish all my family a happy holiday, and I To the crew of the PresidentElsenhower send love to you all,and may we dl have a Happy Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!! New Year. Datlene Hill James C. Keith Jr. To Keith Hofier ToTerrI Merry Christmas. I love you around the world I know you're used to Loosy-Goosy, but you and back again forever and ever. Wishing you better shape up or ship out!!! Ha Ha Ha. Merry lots of pleasant thoughts for the holidays and Christmas!! always. I miss you and can't wait for you to get Hugo Kenyan home and celebrate. Love always, To all Seafarers, union officials and office "Sunshine" (Dawn Hofier) workers To Keith Hofier Wishing all of you a very Merry Christmas Happy holidays. We wish we could be with and Happy New Year. Also smooth sailing into you for the holidays and always. We love you. the New Year. P.S., also, all the best to my retired Love, friends and buddies. Sal and Pugs Hofier Stanislaw Kolasa To Keith Hofier Daddy, I love you and miss you. Have safe, To Mr. G at PIney Point A very special hello. May God bless you happy holidays. Love, your first bom. always for your kindness and understanding of Little Hofier life. Once again, thank you, To Uncle Matt Theresa Krause Merry Christmas, Uncle Matt. We miss you. We love you. To all of the past aiidpresent friends of Joseph Jess, Jake and Joe (Holley) L Krause Sr. To Matthew K.Holley We wish to all a very happy holiday and a Wishing you a safe and happy holiday better 1995. May God grant peace to a wonderful wherever you are. Miss you! husband and father, Joseph L. Krause Sr., who Mom and Dad (Fred and Leita passed away March 19,1993. Holley), Ruth and kids Theresa, Joseph Jr., Joann, Elizabeth and Leonard Krause and family To Eddy Brown Happy holidays to my dear friend, Mr. Ed, on To Babe, Kay and families I will try to make it, or make it up. I love you the Innovator. Love, all! Have a merry and happy year! Y.F.STY.F.N. Charlie Howell Ralph Kurpeski ToBillEckles Christmas to me is the birthday of the one who died so I could live.-Jesus, thankjyoii for loving me that much. And in the prayer^ God let me just thank you again for putting a man like Bill Eckles in my life, because it's the heart of this kind of man that could only come from above. This man has given me tools to walk the To friends and enemies alike kind of life that men walk that have dignity, "What a long, strange trip this has been." rigorous honesty, peace, love and a sound mind. From a rise to power and a fall from grace, I'm I can never thank you enough for helping me gain and keeping the faith. a new set of values. I love you. Bill. Your brother still kicking B.D. Humes for etemity. Chuck Haller To all seamen Happy holiday greetings, and have the best of To Kenneth E. Hallman health. My Christmas Wish for You: Rosie and Addie Hunt I wish you joy, I wish you peace, To the membership and retired shipmates I wish you happiness. Happy holidays! But most of all Harry Huston I wish you love. Always, your wife. Sue (Hallman) To the officials in Wilmington, New York, head­ quarters, everyone in Piney Point and Brother To Holly Kear and Sister Seafarers Hi, honey bunny. Happy Thanksgiving and a Season's best to you and yours! Hope your year was as good as mine while sailing on board Merry Christmas. Donald Irvine the Thompson Pass, a good crew and a good ship. Happy New Year to you all, and may it be a good To Holly Kear one! Hi, Holly Dolly. Merry Christmas. Bob Hamil Vid^ Irvine . . * VP To Dan Duncan The very best to you, Dan. Stephen Judd To Petra, Melanie, Kurtis and Natalie I miss you all and love you with all my heart! Have a Merry Xmas, happy birthdays and happy, safe New Year! Love you more with each day! Ralph Kurpeski To Stephanie Torres Here's wishing you a happy holiday season. We will miss the good food and holiday meals. Gary Lackey To a lot of good men Holiday greetings to all my old seafaring friends. Would be great to hear from you. Call (704)568-3542. Jean LaCorte To Eric Lament Campbell Happy holidays,sweetheart! I miss you today and every day... and I can't wait to see you again. Forever yours, XXOO. I love you always, Cherie (Laurence) *o •*«S1 &:j .-•.-i-.U �.-^- .'-:ut-;«.vji-.v.--.-ji..V.-^ ..J4 -i; flGCEMSfff 1994 kf«J SBAFAKRSLOe &•:; ??• To all Seafarers and employees of the union and the LOG Warm season's greetings, in memory of Frank Lebda. EUzaheth Lebda and son, David To Joel When I look at the water and pray to God at night, I wish in my heart you were hoidine me tight. Thinking about the times we share. Looking at pictures, holding you dear. And even though there's a possibility of you not being home on Christmas day, I'll look up at the stars and substitute the snowflakes kissing my cheeks. Looking forward to each day. Nearer and closer to you again. Kasandra Lechel 1 To friends Christmas and New Year greetings to all my friends from the former New York, New Haven, Hartford RR. Henry L. Lee To Mrs. Josephine Leo To my dear wife, thank you for the 26 |?est holiday seasons a man could ask for. Looking forward to many more. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Love, Tony Leo To my daughter Francesca TTie last eight Christmases since you were bom have been the best. Merry Xmas. Love; your daddy, Tony Leo To Judy and Puppy Lewis and the kids Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. I missy'all. Richard L. Lewis To JIM A. Kennedy Sorry I can't be home for Christmas again. I hope you have a good Christmas in Ohio. Love, Lindsay (Robert B.F. Lindsay Jr.) To Jaclyn Danielle Lindsay Some day I'll be home for Christmas. Sorry I missed another one. Merry Christmas. Love from your dad. Robert B.F. Lindsay Jr. To all Seafarers May God bless you and your family during this holiday season. And may your seas always be calm. Kermett Mangram andfamily To Sheila Newell and Darrayl Marshall Jr. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to my loved ones. Darravl Marshall Sr. To Brett Chandler Newsome Merry Christmas to a wonderful man and Seafarer in my life. Merry Christmas to you, Brett, and to all seafarers. With all my love, Melissa Martin ToFalselMawarl I miss you, my cousin, and I hope we meet again after the holidays. Take care of yourself. Your cousin, Munir Mawari To the English teacher at the Lundeberg School Your student, Munir Mawari, says hi to you and happy holidays. I am going to see you again at school very soon. Munir Mawari To all my former shipmates on Sea-Land,Water­ man SS Co. ships and the SS Atlaittlc I send best wishes for the New Year. I now live in a small town in Delaware, five miles from Marcus Hook, with my wife of 37 years. The SIU was very good to me and my children and when I see an SIU ship going up river to Philly, it brings back many fond memories of my seafaring days. If Bill Burkeshould see this greeting, pleasewrite me at 3113 W. Brandywine Ave., Claymont, Del. 19703. Carl "Mac" McDaniel To Floyd Felix, George Pino and Oakland SeaLand shoregang Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all and their families. May God bless. Gerald McEwen To Timothy W.McGee Merry Christmas,Timothy "Bo" McGee. We have coiled up our ropes and anchored out wait­ ing on your return home! A lighthouse shines as a steadfast beacon on a wintry night, showing the way home over the stormy sea! John 1:15 "And the light shineth in darkness." Mom and dad and family (McGee) &« To all who know me I would like to say hello to all my old co­ workers around the Houston and Galveston area. I would also like to say hello to Jerry and Morma McGee and Maty McGee. A Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all. Timothy McGee fmmi To Mr. and Mrs. John L. Gibbons Happy holiday greetings to you and your new bride. I wish you both all the happiness in your newly marital bliss, and everlasting love. TerranceReed To all my brothers at sea May the seas be calm and the wind behind To Tom Kilbride you. May the stars be bright to guide you on this I'm sorry you're away for the holidays this Xmas night. Wishing you and your families a year. I wish you were here or I was there. Let's Merry Xmas and a Happy New Year. Miss you just remember last Christmas and pray that next all. Am now living in the Catskill Mts., N.Y. year we will be together. I miss you very, very Billy Reid much. Please have the best Christmas you can have (and a happy birthday, too) and know how To Bobby Gene McMlchael much I love and miss you. Everyone sends their Wish you would contact me this Christmas. love. We have lost Charles and Vemon since we last Eyleen OKelly corresponded. Your sister, • June Renfrow To ttie captain, officers and crew on the Gfobaf Sentinel To Carlton D. Richardson Ho! Ho! Ho! Wishing you all a very Merry Hopefully, I'll be meeting you under the Tim McGee and his dad send their holiday Christmas and a Happy New Year! Hoping the mistletoe this Christmas but, if not, remember I greetings to all Seafarers. project went according to schedule, and you are love you! I'll keep the lights burning *til you back in port for the holidays! And "Yes" there is come home. Merry Christmas, babe. Your "lady To Steve Judd a Santa Claus — Global Sentinel! in waiting," Thanks, Steve, for all your help when I was Roxanne Olson Tina (Richardson) in the hospital, when I needed your help the most. To all SIU members To Randy Beacham Merry Xmas, Happy New Year. Happy holidays to my son Joseph and family. Meiry Christmas"old" friend. Ronald and Virginia McGrajfey And also to all active and retired Seafarers. Carlton, Tina, Teresa To passenger ship PuertoRico shipmates 1951Season's greetings to Jim Foti and Steve Carr. and Amber Richardson 1952, Ed Mooney, George McCartney, Martin, M "Olie" Olson To/Vorf/ier/yls/andand NATCO and three who made chief: Murphy, Wingate and To Howard M.Deeter and family Merry Christmas! Frank Merry Xmas. More t-shirts on the way. Tina Richardson andfamily Best wishes always. Sandra (Oswald) Kenneth Alexander McLeo^ To Harry Jones and Andre Gee and Sal To Ann and Mike Oswald May you and your families have a Merry To Kathy Parent Merry Xmas, mom and Mike. Love, Christmas and the best of New Years. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Walt and Sandra (Oswald) Frank Ridrigs Love, Mac (Tom McNeills) ToKerryT.RobySr. Your job takes you away from us a lot, but I To Jim Miller and Buck Mercer know you do it all for us. We just want you to Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. know we appreciate you and all your hard work. Edward Merchant To my wife, Teresa Paradise, and family We wish you the best possible holiday season Wish I could be home with you for the ever. May God bless you, my love, and keep you To all my salty buddies, especially Paul Russell, hplidays. Love and miss you very much. Merry always safe. Merry Christmas and Happy New Danny Marcus, Frank Adams, Coy Harrington, Xmas and Happy New Year! Love always, Allen Garfinkel and Mike Dunn. Year. We love you. I love you more and more Dana Paradise Best wishes and season's greetings. Peace. every second. Jessica and Kerry send their greet­ Danny Miller ings and love too. Your wife. To Mary Claire and Shirley Let me say Merry Christmas and Happy Mignonette, Jessica To Tony Leo and PRMMI shoregang, Elizabeth, and Kerry Roby Jr. Peaceful New Year. Please take care because I N.J. Greetings to Anthony Leo and members of really care and love you both. Love and misses. Mom (Helen Porel) the PRMMI shoregang. Happy holidays toall the gang. God bless you all. Happy New Year. To Tony Leo Anthony Minors Merry Christmas, Happy New Year. Holiday greetings to all the shore gang. To my Indian Giver (Skip) Peter and Lee Patrick May you have the strength of eagles' wings, faith and courage to fly to new heights and the To Shelton Mathews wisdom of the universe to carry you there. Merry You're the best. We both wish you a very Christmas. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Lynda Morgan Mike Peck and Dean Compton To all members To my wife, Christina, son, friends and mates Merry Xmas and Happy New Year to all, Happy holidays. To my son, best of luck in especially former Baker Whiteley and Curtis Bay school at Dean College. Merry Christmas and Towing crews in Baltimore. Happy New Year to you all!!! Charles W. Morris Spiridon Perdikis To Jason Parker To DawnPInkham Somehow the imagination is more exciting Merry Christmas, honey. I'm looking for­ than real life. Also, a person's imperfections ward to being home this year with you. I love you make them special. very much. (P.S., Merry Christmas to all my David Mullenberg fellow Seafarers.) Love, Mark Pinkham To Dakota Neff Merry Christmas! May God watch over you and keep you safe, healthy and happy while I am away. I love you heart and soul. Mommy (Cheryl Neff) To mom, dad and Melissa On this holiday, I wish you all the best. You are all in ray thoughts and I love you. God bless you all. Brett Newsome To SIU Staff and members Happy holidays to members all over the world. Thanks for your fight to maintain the slogan of our union: unity makes strength. To my retired brothers of the 1940s, our fight was not in vain. God bless you. I love you all. Nick the Greek (C. Nick Nickerson) To Cat Barber Hey sista, where are you? I'll be home for the holidays. Call me from wherever you may be. Miss you lots!! When's the wedding? Unny O'Brien ToJIola You crazy bag lady! Thanks for the laughs. You made life a lot easier. Have a great holiday. See you in January, hopefully. Keep on singin'. Linda O'Brien To Sergio Can you tell me how to get, how to get to Sesame Street? (repeat) What can I say but thanks. You're the best. Happy holidays. Marshmallow - L. O'Brien To Jocelyn C. Octavlano Merry Christmas and a prosperous Happy New Year to my lovely Jocelyn and adorable daughters, Veena and Steffi. Wish to be home this Christmas. Lots of love. Pop Pop (G.A. Octaviano) To Mr. and Mrs. Deograclas CusI and Family Greetings from Alaska to everybody in 46th and 43rd Ave., Tatay, Inay, Beth, Boy, Rose, Kuya, Emon, Ati Mercy, Nene Michelle, Veena, Steffi and Mamsy. Love, Pop Pop. (G.A. Octaviano) To mom,Marylee, Bruce, Bobby, Beverly and Aunt Florence Mabuhay from the Philippines, and from the land of smiles, I would like to wish my family a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. William George Rackley To Vincent F.Coss Season's greetings from the Philippines and may I wish you, your wife and children a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year in 1995. William G. Rackley To Nelson (Chico) Rodriguez and Brian Sandlin Chico, Mabuhay to my old friend, and from Angeles City, P.I., may I wish my partner in crime a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Brian, Mabuhay, my good SIU brother. William (P.I.) Rackley To Ed Desoucey and MIchell Santana Ed, to my Seafarer brother who was a bless­ ing this year. Merry Christmas and .a great and Happy New Year from the Philippines. Michell, I'd like to wish my good friend and classmate of class 367 Merry Xmas and a Happy New Year from the Philippineis. William (Red) Rackley To Florence M. Rudnicki Season's greetings from the Hiilippines. And I would like to wish my dear aunt a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Bill Rackley To William Lee "Red" Rackley I'd like to wish my father, who sails with me on every ocean, a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Bill (Red) Rackley To Mrs. Newton Rader Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you.Love, Evan Rader .•Sii Greetings from the Roby family: Mig­ nonette, Kerry Sr., Jessica and Kerry Jr. To the Serrano family Our holiday wish to you is for each and every one of you to have a very blessed and Merry Christmas. We miss you and look forward to holidays our families can share together. The Ruiz family To Seafarersnear and far Season's greetings to all ashore and at sea. May the New Year bring fair winds and follow­ ing seas, prosperity and good health and a strong future for the U.S. merchant marine. May God bless all. Henry Salles To Claudia Saltz Here's hoping my new wife and her family have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. I love you and miss you lots. Hope to lie home soon. Love, George (Saltz) To John Baker Boy, have a Merry Xmas. How was Piney Point? George Saltz To Great Lakes tugmen It's been a good year for us all. I hope you and all your family members are blessed the coming year. Thanks for being a brother in this union. Juan Motown Sanchez ToJohnBumgamer Thinking about all the wonderful Christmases we have spent together and wishing you could be with us now. May you have calm seas and fair winds. Ellen Sanders and Sarah, Jer and Tommy 21 �22 DECEMBER 1994 SEt^MBRSlO^i To my wife, Cindy M. Sandven, and kids A s{^ial day for God. And may He look over my family and Seafarers at Ghristmas. We do our part by going to sea to stand up at war or at peace. At the end, God will understand, but others will not remember the Seafarers. Samson O. Sandven To Mr. and Mrs. Frank Sanfilippo and my wife, Robin Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Love and peace and health. Dominic Sanfilippo Tp Grace and Aiyssa Sardone To Grace and Aiyssa, the most important people in the world to me. Hope you have a special Xmas and New Year. Love always, Michael Sardone To Nikki Riborozo Happy holidays, Nikki. How's life on the Hawaii cruise ships? Sweetheart, when you get your "A" book, come to San Francisco. Merry Christmas. Peter Scheutz To retirees, union officials, shipmates, friends All the best in '95. PatSeager To Uncle Steve, Aunt Dominga and Steven Weall missyoualot! Hope wego down there soon. I had a lot of fun when Aunt Dominga and Steven were here. Aunt Doininga, thanks for being there for me. It seems we got closer than we ever were! I love you a lot! We all love and miss you. Love always. The Serrano family To my brother, Abdul Arhman, and my son, YasserShaibi Happy holidays to you and all friends. And a happy holiday to the SIU. Moses M. Shaibi To my ioying family:Pat, Kendel and Erin Although we will be apart this Xmas, know that you are always in my thoughts and in my heart. You're always my reason to smile. Love, B (Bradford H. Shelly) To SiUpersonnel, active and retired Seafarers Compliments of the season and a salute to the best union in America. Ricardo Siddons To Mrs. Espanoia Jackson Happy holidays to you and yours from a faithfu friend and your heartbeat. May this day be very special, just for you. With love, Ray F. Sims To all headquarters staff, Piney Point staff, union hail employeesand dear SIU friends Wishing once again each and everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous New Year. I'll be thinking of y'all. Betty Smith To Gaiy Smith and family Wishing you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous New Year to come! Wish you and family could be with me, but since you can't, I want you to know that you will always have a place in my heart. Love, Mom (Betty Smith) To ail former "Erie-Lack" RR tugboat crews Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and a healthy and Happy New Year. Orrin D. Smith and family To Spencer, Tausha and Terra Smith Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Hope Santa is good to you. Don't forget Uncle Doug. Clyde Smith To Jackie, Lenora and Jonathan Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. May God bless us. Doug Smith To Chris and Brein Collins Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Keep in touch. May God bless you through the holidays. Doug Smith To Spencer Smith We love you, daddy. Thank you for taking such good care of us. May God continue lo bless us, especially on the building of our new dream home. Love you always, Tausha aiul Terra Smith ToVeronii^^ We-wish you a very Merry Christmas and a happy and healthy New Year. The Smiths To ail our friends at the Houston hall We hope all your holiday wishes come true. And we wish you a very Happy New Year. The Smiths To ail the stars from Feaitherwind In port or at sea. Grandad will find your star over the holidays. Merry Christmas, Aldeberon, Shula, Cappella, Sirrus and Shedar. Merry Christmas, Kathi, Jennifer, Michael, Jason and Ashley. Jim Souci rmm^rn To Mike Stein We miss and love you very, very much. Hope to see you at Christmas. Have a safe trip. We'll be thinking of you always. Crissy and your beautiful daughter, Jessica Lynn Stein To Mary, Russell and Eileen Merry Christmas to you and the kittens. I'll see you shortly. T. Stevens To ail my friends and family near and far Happy holidays to my family and friends and all SIU people I have been blessed to have sailed with. May you all have beautiful holidays. If you're at home or at sea, be safe. Harry Stockman To Kevin Struzik Happy holidays to my husband. I love you so very much! You make my life worth living. Have a happy birthday, January 27. Love, Brenda (Struzik) To Mrs. Nancy Thomas, Ciaudio Thomas, Gunther Thomas and William Thomas Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year. May all my family and friends and their families enjoy a wonderful holiday season. G.F. (Willie) Thomas To unionofficials, everyoneat Piney Point and the Brooklynhall All you great guys, have a healthy Xmas. Tom Tobias To ailthose who know me Peace and love always to my brothers and sisters everywhere. Merry Xmas and Happy New Year. God bless!! James Tolan To Ed Porter Merry Christmas from all SIU members on the Sea-Land Performance. The good food and special things that you do will be missed this holiday season. Stephanie Torres ToAiidaTurko To my dear wife, I wish you a Merry Xmas and a Happy New Year, I miss you and love you. Wish I was there. Love always, Alek Turko To my wife, Aurea, BJ and newborn child Wishing you all a Merry Xmas and a prosperous New Year '95. May you have a good day, good luck and good health. I miss you all a lot. Dad (Jessie Ulibas) To Fiorencio P. Umaii Without you, Christmas will never be the same. But in port or at sea, wherever your ship will be, we wish you the best. The Umali sisters (Veronica, Lei and Ophel) To my loving daughters. Lei, Ophei and Veronica Hope this 1994 holiday season is the year we all expect it to be. Just always remember, I always love you whenever I am. Fiorencio P. Umali To my sons-in-law, Marcus and Jeremy Hoping you two will always love my two daughters as you love them now and throughout the holiday seasons of years to come. F.P. Umali To Simeon F.Ureta We all send our love, especially during the holiday season. Stay happy and healthy. The Ureta family To Charles NealMispagel Amor, you gave me feelings I never knew. You were heaven sent to me. What we share surpasses paradise. Christmas is looking in your Manny Wedell eyes! To Eiiie, Frank and Sarah Wilcox Hilda Thanks for being such a wonderful wife, son To the crew of the Tug Cougar and daughter. Happy holidays to my family and Merry Xmas and Happy New Year! all union members. Wolfe Robert Wilcox To Kathleen To Geraldine M. Travers Happy Birthday and Merry Christmas from Merry Christmas, honey, and many more to the LNG Aquarius. Your brother, come. Love you, Dave Glenn Williams To Brother Tillman and Brother Steve To Hugo Kenyon Here's to two of the finest ABs this side of Hi, honey. 1 miss you very much. Hope to see the rainbow and to the best crew ever—aboard you soon. Happy holidays! the OMl Columbia. You guys are the best! Becky Woodruff Sister Jen To ail my shipmates in the Seattle area and Red To George Stolen and his family Thanks for a wonderful year, and yes! Many Happy holidays. more to come! You are truly a miracle of kindness Jim Woods in this world today. I love you, honey. Always, To Miss Tawana W. Deman Jen Hi, darling. I wish you a Happy Christmas and New Year's Day. I miss you so much. 1995 ToWiiiiamG.Rackiey Wishing you a Merry Xmas and a Happy is our year. Happy New Year, Shanika, Aliquan New Year with all good things. Love you with all and Troy. our hearts. Robert Andrew Wright Jr. Mom and family To Ceiia and Gabrieiie I love you both very much. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Charlie and Dada To Peggy Young Merry Christmas to the Southern Yankee. To V^quez family Thor Young Wishing you the best. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. To Sonny "Larry Bird" Pinkham Santia, Abby D. and Wilfredo Merry Christmas and may the Celtics prosper. To Steve Ruiz and family Thor "Rusty Wallace" Young Seeing Dominga, Steven and Natalie was great! I only wish you could have come home too. ToHerbLibby Merry Christmas to the Dunkin Donut King May this Christmas bring both our families the from your flatlander neighbor to the south. I now spirit of love, happiness and health. Merry can yell at the ordinary for messing up the coffee. Christmas, little brother. I love and miss you very much! Your sister, Bosun Thor Young Christine andfamily To ail Seafarers Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Keep up the good work. To all Seafarers The port of Philadelphia Special greetings to all Seafarers around the nation! We here, in New York, wish you and your To Lee Hardman Wishing you a magical Christmas and a great loved ones the best Christmas ever! Take care of yourselves and I will see you guys around!!! New Year full of happiness and wonderful surprises. I love you, baby. Yours forever, Peace to all, Shari Irene and N.Y. SlUClinic To Darrien Vesseii I love you DJ. Thanks for being the best To Peter Patrick and family Greetings to Pete and the Mrs. and family father, lover and friend with all my love, Lee Ann from all of us at PRMMI. The best for '95 and years to come. Merry Xmas and Happy New To Michael Kozak Year. Good luck. Wishing we could be together for my favorite Tony, Minors, Vazquez and the gang season. Merry Christmas, darling. Happy New Year, too. Every day's a holiday when I'm with you! Much love. ToMs.MerieWescott Your girlie Have a very Happy Xmas and a healthy New ,Year. Good luck for '95. To my wife, family and friends Anstey Merry Xmas and Happy New Year. Ho, ho, ho! AB Dave To Jim Shinners, R. Evans and Joe Hannay at PRMMi in Edison, N.J. To Kevin Greetings for the holiday season. Merry I' m sorry y ou' re gong to miss another holiday Xmas and Happy New Year to all from all of us season. Just remember,1 love you and I can't wait at the Elizabeth shoregang. for you to get home. Love, Anthony Leo, Minors and the gang Kerri To Rodney PontHiet To Sedonia Sparks, Tanya and Mom Being that miles will separate us, we couldn't Season's greetings to you and your family. Have a happy, happy holiday and a prosperous think of a better way to reach you. Our thoughts will be with you, and we hope that we will also New Year. God bless you. cross your mind. Hopefully, you'll be enjoying Member M. PRMMI the holiday fest somewhere. We love you, we ToJohnGrosskurth miss you. Have a great holiday. See you soon. Our very best wishes this holiday season. Love, Tom and Dee Your family To Kim, Ray, Darrin and Toni Merry, Merry y'all...and Happy New Year. Love, To ail my shipmates Many blessings. With love and respect, Suzanne van Schoor, P.O. Box 8817, Honolulu, Hawaii %830-0817. Suzanne van Schoor To Vazquez-Hernandez family Feliz navidad y pnospeno aik) nuevo. Velez-Vazquez family To Ralph A. Fann My holiday message goes out to a shipmate who has gone through thick and thin with me while over in Saudi Arabia (Dommond), short tempered at times. But we must remember, there was a war going on. 1 wish you well, Ralph, and if you're ever in Washington (Mt. Vernon), look me up and we'll have a few laughs and call Charlie. It was both a pleasure and a nightmare working with you. Joe Waldron .-•i �"• ,; •' ;;• (..••*-?-• ;•:: -V ,«>':My'f •-] .•'« :• ; V ..5" ; •. \ • • " • • .,• • • •;; j'v. .•V DECEMBER 1994 SEAFARERS LOG Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Trip Reliefs ••REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C Port DECK DEPARTMENT New York 15 29 5 24 28 0 • 41 55 11 Philadelphia 7 6 2 1 2 2 0 8 10 5 Baltimore 10 8 1 •5,,: 3 2 18 Norfolk 11 14 13 5 13 12 6 22 '22 21 Mobile 8 13 2 8 17 0 2 10 22 4 New Orleans 18 28 0 17 15 0 8 .24 54 7 Jacksonville 19 22 11 16 12 , 7 8 38 39 23 . San Francisco> 19 18 4 16 8 35' . 33 Wilmington 19 7 14 11 7 27 36 14 • Seattle 22 26 1 19 25 8 49 38 5 Puerto Rico 6 4 3 4 3 2 0 14 5 6 6 Honolulu 25 8 6 15 2 3 6 33 12 Houston 24 22 r"23^ . 18 2 11 36 22 St, Louis 1 0 - •: 0 0 0 1 |.:v;4-. 1 Piney Point 5 7 0 .. .... J...•n»v > 1 ; 9 0 Algonac 0 • l""'- 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 Totals 183 243 66 160 185 39 70 324 430 142 Port ENGINE DEPARTMENT New York I^iladelphia Baltimore Norfolk Mobile New Orleans Jacksonville San Francisco Wilmington Seattle Puerto Rico Honolulu jHouston $t. Louis iRhey Point Algonac Totals Port New York Philadelphia p^ltimore Norfolk Mobile New Orleans Jacksonville pan Francisco Wilmington Seattle Puerto Rico Honolulu Houston St. Louis Piney Point Algonac Totals Port New York Philadelphia Baltimore Norfolk Mobile New Orleans Jacksonville San Francisco Wilmington Seattle Puerto Rico Honolulu Houston St. Louis Piney Point Algonac Totals Totals All Departments 485 Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. ** "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered iat the port at the end of last month. A total of 1,153 jobs were shipped on SlU-contracted deep sea vessels. Of the 1,153 jobs shipped, 367 jobs or about 32 percent were taken by "A" seniority members. The rest were filled by "B" and "C" seniority people. From October 16 to November 15,1994, a total of 159 trip relief Jobs were shipped. Since the trip relief program began on April 1,1982, a total of 21,935 Jobs have been shipped. 23 January & February 1995 Membership MeeUngs Deep Sea, Lakes, Inland liVaters OCTOBER 16 — NOVEMBER 15,1994 •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C • 'M' Piney Point Tuesday, January 3*; Monday, February 6 @ ^changed by New Year's Day New York Tuesday: January 3, February 7 Philadelphia Wednesday: January 4, February 8 Baltimore Thursday: January 5, February 9 Norfirik Thursday: January 5, February 9 9:I4 : Jacksonville Thursday: January 5, February 9 Algonac Riday: January 6, February 10 • ||f Houston Monday: January 9, February 13 / Wm, ' 1. . New Orleans Tuesday: January 10, February 14 Mobile Wednesday: January 11, February 15 San Francisco Thursday: January 12, February 16 Wilmington > Tuesday: January 17*; Tuesday, February 21** ^changed by Martin Luther Kuig's Birthday **changedby Presidents'Day Seattle Friday: January 20, February 24 ' ^ San Juan Thursday: January 5, February 9 St Louis Friday: January 13, Fdjruary 17 IP li® Honolulu Friday: January 13, February 17 .1 . Duluth ;' Wednesday: January 11, February 15 Jersey City Wednesday: January 18, February 22 New Bedford Tuesday: January 17, February 21 BKh poifs meeting startsa 10'M am. Personals MAJOR SMITH JR. Please contact Dale at MFC in Mobile, Ala. (205) 343-9005. JUAN GILBERTO GONZALES TORRES Please contact your sister, Gloria Rivera, at 280 H Street, #65, Chula Vista, Calif. 91910-4607; or telephone (619) 422-8165. SI:'' • ART AND DUTCH D.C. Hodden is trying to contact Art from Puyallup. Wash, and Dutch. Both sailed with him as ABs on the SS Billy Mitchell on a voyage from Seattle, Wash, to Korea, February 7 - April 21,1947 and back to Portland Ore. He may be reached at 3166 Fellswood Lane, Port Neches, Texas 77651; or telephone (409) 727-5519. ALONZO "DUDE" CURTIS WHITE AND FRIENDS OF MR. WHITE The niece of Alonzo "Dude" Curtis White would like to get in touch with her uncle. She would like Mr. White, or any friends who know him, to call or write Lisa Ensminger at 2053 Young Avenue, Mem­ phis, Texas 38104; or telephone (901) 278-6641. CARL ROBERT PARDY The mother and cousin of Carl Robert Pardy are tiying to get in touch with him. Anyone knowing his whereabouts should contact Ed Kramer at 74-1L 58th Avenue, Elmhurst, N.Y. 11373; or teleplmne (718)651-0880. " P.' " •' .-sr i. V: �DECBHIBER1994 24 SBmuiBIS LOG Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes Seafarers International Union Directory OCTOBER 16 — NOVEMBER 15,1994 CL—Company/Lakes L—^Lakes NP—-Non Priority MichaelSacco President Jfriin Fay Secretary-Treasurer Joseph Sacco Executive Vice President Augostin Tellez Vice President Collective Bargaining George McCartney Vice President West Coast Roy A. "Buck" Mercer Vice President Government Services JackCafTey Vice President Atlantic Coast Byron Keiley Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey Vice President Gulf Coast HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301)899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr. Algonac, MI 48001 (810)794-4988 BALTIMORE 1216 E. Baltimore St. Baltimore, MD 21202 (410)327-4900 DULUTH 705 Medical Arts Building Duluth, MN 55802 (218)722-4110 HONOLULU 606KalihiSt. Honolulu, HI 96819 (808)845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Fiercest. Houston, TX 77002 (713)659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St. Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904)353-0987 JERSEY CITY 99 Montgomery St. Jersey City, NJ 07302 (201)435-9424 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy. Mobile, AL 36605 (205)478-0916 NEW BEDFORD 48 Union St. New Bedford, MA 02740 (508)997-5404 NEW ORLEANS 630 Jackson Ave. New Orleans, LA 70130 (504)529-7546 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718)499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St. Norfolk, VA 23510 (804)622-1892 PHILADELPHIA • >'? • •' ' Philadelphia," PA 19148 (215)336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75 Piney Point, MD 20674 (301)994-0010 • PORT EVERGLADES 2 We.st Dixie Highway Dania, FL 33004 (305)921-5661 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St. San Francisco, CA 94105 (415)543-5855 Government Services Division (415)861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop I6V2 Santurce, PR 00907 (809)721-4033 SEATTLE 2505 First Ave. Seattle, WA 98121 (206)441-1960 ST. LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave. St. Louis, MO 63116 (314)752-6500 WILMINGTON 5ION. Broad Ave. Wilmington, CA 90744 (310)549-4000 •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac 0 24 10 19 3 »»REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class CL Class L Qass NP DECK DEPARTMENT 0 36 7 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 20 6 S STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 12 2 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 2 f T3':, TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP 22 0 0 27 ,8 0 31 37 Totals All Departments 108 0 63 ' 37 0 68 15 0 * 'Total Registered" rneans the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. ** "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last mqnth. ' 68 Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters OCTOBER 16 - NOVEMBER 15,1994 •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast 0 44 0 45 Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals Totals All Departments 0 6 0 5 11 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C ••REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C DECK DEPARTMENT 2 0 0 0 0 2 27 0 P 38 6 40 67 6 42 0 14 0 13 27 22 4 51 3 80 2 7 0 10 19 0 19 0 53 72 ENGINE DEPARTMENT v'.- 1 22 0 24 ... 2 , '01 0 1 ^JO:: 0 5 1 2 0 0 0 1 1 74 14 31 T , 0 1 0 3 0 ; 0 3 0 0 0 3 0 1 " v. CO' : " 2^ 0 0 0 0 17 0 0 33 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 .... ^ 0 • ' 1 0 ' 4 '• P>: 12 '• '•: 0 "i •' . 0 2 0 1 2 17 90 7 44 130 1 . 4 ' 0 ills 2 4 0 "'"l """" 0 V 1 2 0 2 0 14 16 23 92 * "Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. •* "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. ^re You Missing Important Mail? In order to ensure that each active that you are not getting your union SIU member and pensioner receives mail, please use the form on this page a copy of the Seafarers LOG each to update your home address. month—as well as other important Your home address is your per­ mail such as W-2 forms, pension and manent address, and this is where all welfare checks and bulletins or official union documents will be notices—a correct home address mailed (unless otherwise specified). must be on file with the union. If you have moved recently or feel If you are getting more than one HOME ADDRESS FORM copy of the LOG delivered to you, if you have changed your address, or if your name or address is misprinted or incomplete, please complete the form and send it to: Seafarers International Union Address Correction Department 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 (PLEASE PRINT) Name Phone No. (_ Address Social Security No. Active SIU Other Book No. D Pensioner This will be my permanent address for all official union mailings. This address should remain In the union file unless otherwise changed by me personally.' (Signed). 12/94 �DECEMBER 1994 J oining the growing number of SIU pensioners this month are 24 Seafarers who have retired to the beach after many years of sailing. Twenty of those signing off sailed in the deep sea division and four sailed in the inland waterways. Among those joining the ranks of the retirees are Brothers LeRoy C. Cope, Gerald M. Lopez and Robert Y. Wood, who have completed the bosun recertilication course at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. Of all the Seafarers signing off this month. Brother John F. McCoIlom sailed over the longest period of time, having joined the union in 1942 in the port of Baltimore. On this page, the Seafarers LOG presents brief biographical accounts of this month's pen­ sioners. DEEP SEA JOHN B. ABRAMS, 56, joined the Seafarers in 1964 the port of New York. He sailed in the en­ gine department. Brother Abrams was employed on the Isthmian shoregang in 1973 and became a member of the Sea-Land shoregang in 1976. He upgraded fre­ quently at the Lurtdeberg School. Born in New York, Brother Abrams still calls New York home. SEFARERS LOG •V • To Our New Pensioners ... Thanks for a Job Well Done Each month in the Seafarers LOG, the names of SIU members who recently have become pensioners appear with a brief biographical sketch. These men and women have served the maritime industry well, and the SIU and all their union brothers and sisters wish them happiness and health in the days ahead. deck department. Brother Cope frequently upgraded at the Lun­ deberg School and completed the bosun recertification program there in 1984. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1947 to I95I. A native of Kansas, Brother Cope now resides in California. HOWARD B.DAVIS, 72, joined the Seafarers in 1951 in the port of Mobile, Ala. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Davis last worked aboard the USNS Bellatrix, owned by Bay Ship Management, in October 1993. He has retired to Alabama. EDWARD GONTHA, 65, joined the union in 1961 in the port of New York. He sailed in both the steward and deck depart­ ments. Brother Gontha upgraded frequently at the Lundeberg School. Bom in Indonesia, Brother Gontha is a naturalized U.S. citizen and has retired to New York. CANOVA FLOYD MITCHELL JR., 64, joined the union in 1947 in the port of Mobile, Ala. He sailed in the steward depart­ ment. Brother Mitchell last worked aboard Apex Marine's Cape 7ay/or. A native of Alabama, he still calls Alabama home. He sailed in the engine depart­ ment. Brother Pickren served in the U.S. Navy from 1950 to 1953. Bom in Georgia, he now resides in Texas. 25 ROBERT Y. WOOD, 70, joined the union in 1967 in the port of San Francisco. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Wood upgraded frequently at the Lun­ deberg School and completed the bosun recertification program there in 1986. A native of Colorado, Brother Wood now resides in Washington. INLAND LORENZO F. RAZO, 66, joined the Seafarers in 1968 in the port of San Francis­ co. He sailed in the steward department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. Bom in Califomia, Brother Razo served in the U.S. Army from 1952 to 1954, Razo still lives in Califomia. DI^l JOHN M. CUDWORTH, 62, joined the Seafarers in 1960 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Boatman Cudworth last sailed as mate. He served in the U.S. Coast Guard from 1949 to 1952. Bom in North Carolina, Boatman Cudworth still calls North Carolina home. RAYMOND E. DANLEY, 66, joined the SIU in 1977 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Boatman Danley sailed in the deck department. Among the jobs he held were that of a mate, and later a cap­ tain. He served in the U.S. Army from 1945 to 1947. Bom in Florida, Brother Danley has retired in that state. WALTER GUNTER C. O. FROESSTEVENS, CHER,65, 67,joined joined ^e JOHN F. McCOLLOM, 68, the union in SIU in 1978 joined the Seafarers in 1942 in in the port of the port of Baltimore He sailed in 1961 in the GEORGE New York. the deck department. Brother Mc­ port of New D. ARRHe sailed in CoIlom still calls his native Mas­ York. The Miaryland na­ LEDGE the steward sachusetts home. JR., 65, tive sailed in the engine depart­ department. Brother Froescher, a RONALD joined the ment. Brother Stevens upgraded former member of the Marine LEE THOMAS SIU in 1956 at the Lundeberg School and at­ NEIBERT, Cooks and Stewards Union, c. in the port of graduated from the steward's tended the Educational Con­ 57, joined the McNELLIS, New York. ference there at Piney Point, Md. training school (Pacific) in 1966. union in 1956 50, joined in 1970. He served in the U.S. He sailed in Bom in Germany, Brother Froes­ in the port of the SIU in Navy from 1943 to 1945. Brother the deck department. Brother Arr- cher currently resides in Califor­ Baltimore. He 1964 in the Stevens makes his home in ledge served in the U.S. Air sailed in flie nia. port of New Maryland. Force from 1951 to 1955. Born deck depart­ York. He in Ohio, Brother Arrledge now ment. Boatman Neibert was bom sailed in the JOSE resides in Virginia. in Maryland and continues to HIPOLITO, deck department. Brother Mclive there. BERTM. Nellis sailed aboard the SS Steel 71,joined MANUEL WINFIELD, the Seafarers Worker for three years during the BEATA,65, 63, joined JOHND. Vietnam conflict Bom in New in 1971 in joined the the Seafarers PAYNE, 63, York, Brother McNellis continues the port of union in in 1958 in joined the to live in his native state. New Or­ 1968 in the Seafarers in the port of leans. He 1975 in the New York. port of New sailed in the . CHARLES port of Jack­ York. He He sailed in engine department. Brother C. PICKsonville, Fla. sailed in the the steward Hipolito upgraded at the Lun­ REN, 61, He last sailed department and upgraded at the engine deberg School. A native of the began sailing Lundeberg School to chief cook. as a captain. department. Brother Beata Philippines, Brother Hipolito is a with the Boatman Payne upgraded at the Brother Winfield served in the upgraded frequently at the Lun­ naturalized U.S. citizen and union in Lundeberg School in 1988. A na­ U.S. Army from 1953 to 1955. deberg School. A native of Hon­ resides in Louisiana. 1959 in the tive of Kansas, Boatman Payne Bom in Virginia, Brother Winduras, Brother Beata cuaently port of Jack­ has retired to Florida. field still calls Virginia home. lives in New York. sonville, Fla. DANTE VALHERMAN Labor on the March BUENA R. BYRD, JANOLO, 57, joined 65,joined the Seafarers the SIU in in 1966 in 1968 in the the port of port of Wil­ Houston. He mington, sailed in the Calif. He sailed in the deck deck departdepartment. Bom in the Philip­ pines, Brother Janolo has retired ment. A native of Alabama, Brother Byrd now resides in to Minnesota. Texas. GERALD M. LOPEZ, WILLIAM 57, joined "HOPPY"R the union in CARROLL, 1965 in the 70, joined port of San the SiU in Francisco. 1944 in the He sailed in port of Bal­ the deck timore. He department. Brother Lopez sailed in the upgraded at the Lundeberg engine department. Bom in School and completed the bosun Cleveland, Brother Carroll has recertification program there in retired to Hawaii. 1986. Bom in Indonesia, Brother Seafarers join wth carpenters, longshoremen, garment workers, teamsters, grocery store clerks arid others in a Jersey City, N.J. parade celebrating the cooperation between various religious groups Lopez is a naturalized U.S. LEROY C. COPE, 64, joined and unions. SIU Vice President Ed Pulver (fourth from left) helped organize the march. Senator Frank citizen and currently resides in the union in 1967 in the port of R. Lautenberg (D-N.J.) (third from left) joined the parade. New York. San Francisco. He sailed in the �rj.-a>"-w. 26 DiOBmER 1994 SBVARBISUKt igest of Ships Meetings '•45 S |77ie Seaforers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipt)oard minutes as possil)le. On occasion, tiecause of space ; iimitadons, some wilitte omitted. ^ips minute first are reviewed try the union's contract department. Those issues requiring attention orresoiudon are addressed by the union upon rec^pt of the ships minut&s. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. OVERSEAS HARRIETTE Corpus Christi, Texas. Educational director reminded members to take time to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crewmembers asked contracts depart ment to look into improving dental benefits. Wiper reminded engine department members not to put greasy hands on bulkhead and to wash bucket and mop when finished. Crewmembers thanked galley gang for job well done. Crew reported clothes dryer in need of repair and re­ quested new ice machine. Chairman reminded members not to use steward deck door at any time. /If4 VG(/£Z(P.R.M.M.I), September 26—Chairman Terry Thomas, USNS WILKES{Bay Ship Manage­ Secretary Richard Ward, Steward ment), July 17—Chairman Joseph Delegate A. Serrano. No beefs or dis­ Lisenby, Secretary E. Driza, Deck puted OT reported. Crew reported Delegate Ricky Grant, Engine combination lock to crew mess needs Delegate Phillip Saueline, Steward repair, and windows on look-out sta­ Delegate W, Lockett. Chairman tion on bow need changing. Vote of noted all chairs in crew messhall thanks given to steward department refurbished. Crew asked contracts for job well done. Next port: San department for information concern­ Juan, P.R. ing seatime, contract clarification on NEWARK BA K(Sea-Land Ser­ chipping and painting and work rules for weekends and holidays. Chairman vice), September 19—Chairman Pedro Sanchez, Secretary Felipe Orreminded crewmembers not to slam landa, Educational Director Mark doors. Educational director dis­ Ruhl, Deck Delegate Russell Bar­ cussed safety tips with crewmem­ rack, Engine Delegate William bers. Treasurer reported $369 in Parker. Chairman announced radio ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT fixed and microwave not repairable. reported by deck, engine or steward Secretary noted payoff in Elizabeth, delegates. Next port: Pusan, South N.J. No beefs or disputed OT Korea. reported. Crewmembers asked con­ CAROLINA (P.R.M.M.I.), August tracts department to lower retirement 8—Chairman Tom Harding, age for members with required Secretary William Winters, Educa­ seatime. tional Director David Able, Engine OMI DYNACHEM{OMl), Septem­ Delegate Joseph Arch, Steward ber 11—Chairman Larry Kunc, Delegate Fernando Vega. No beefs Secretary Steven Wagner, Educa­ or disputed OT reported. Crewmem­ tional Director Wayne Roherson, bers discussed m^ng donations to Deck Delegate Mike Tannehill, En­ the Children's Hospital of San Juan, gine Delegate Nester Martinez, P.R. Steward delegate advised mem­ Steward Delegate Tom Kreis. Chair­ bers to upgrade at Lundeberg School man reminded crewmembers to lock to improve skills. Chairman reminded up movies while in port and limit members to donate to SPAD in order number of movies in crew lounge. to keep union's voice heard in Wash­ Treasurer reported $60 in movie ington. He urged members to maintain fund. No beefs or disputed OT union solidarity because strength lies reported. Crew extended vote of in unity. Next port: Baltimore. thanks to galley gang with special AMERICAN CORMORANT thanks for fresh red snapper, crabs (Osprey Shipping), September 25— and shrimp obtained while in Hous­ Chairman Vernon Huelett, Secretary ton. Next port: Los Angeles. Darryl K. Go^ns, Educational OVERSEAS HARRIETTE Director L. Rose, Deck Delegate M. Maritime Overseas), September 18— Flante, Steward Delegate Robert Chairman Daniel Laitinen, Secretary Wright Jr. Educational director disGeorge Quinn, Educational Director CUSS& advantages of upgrading at Jose Rodriguez, Deck Delegate Piney Point No beefs or disputed OT James Cunningham, Engine reported. Crewmembers not^ Delegate Daniel Vasquez, Steward Seafarers LOGs received. Crew gave Delegate Henry Edwards. Chairman vote of thanks to Goggins, Wright and thanked crew for job well done and SA Bert Macany for good meals and announced ship returning from keeping house clean. Next port: Sin­ shipyard in Gdansk, Poland. He said gapore. ship will dock in New Orleans ITB PHILADELPHIA (Sheridan around September 23. Educational director urged members to upgrade at Transportation), September 26— Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT Chairman J.F. Caballero, Secret^ Joseph P. Emidy, Educational Direc­ reported. Crew reported receipt of tor John Bennifleld, Deck Delegate Seafarers LOGs. Walter Harris, Engine Delegate OVERSEAS JOYCE (Maritime Dennis Danforth Jr., Steward Overseas), September 30—Chairman Delegate Jack Hart. Chairman noted I. Bradford, Secretary Pablo Al­ ship's antenna and crew VCR need varez. No beefs or disputed OT re­ repair. He added that repair list will sorted. Crew requested new furniture be posted and encouraged everyone's "or crew lounge and thanked galley cooperation. Secretary reported gang for good food and well main­ minutes and crew list will be given to tained ship. Crewmembers requested patrolman at payoff. Educational satrolman meet ship in next port director stressed importance of upgrading skills at Piney Point. No OVERSEAS Af4H/L^(Maritime beefs or disputed OT reported. Overseas), September 25^^hairman Seafarers LOGs received. Crew Marco Galliano, Secretary J. Rivera, asked contracts department to clarify Deck Delegate M.L. Jackwn, day and watch pay. Ship heading to Steward Delegate Juan Gonzales. New Jersey. Chairman announced new VCR, wash­ ing machine and dryer waiting in LEADER (Kiiby Tankships), Sep­ shipyard in Texas. He reminded crew­ tember 23—Chairman Patrick members: no smoking allowed in mes­ Rankin, Secretary Henry Manning, shall. He thanked all departments for Educational Director Richard good trip with no problems. No beefs Gracey, Deck Delegate Rodney or disputed OT reported. CrewmemPence, Engine Delegate George Ijers extended special thanks to galley Vitello, Steward Delegate Arthur gang for job well done. Aguinaldo. Chairman announced OVERSEAS PHILADELPHIA payoff every 30 days on the 15th of Maritime Overseas), September 20— the month. He noted next payoff in (Maritime Overseas), July 31—Chair­ man Daniel Laitinen, Secretary deorge Quinn, Educational Director William Marino, Deck Delegate James Cunningham, Engine Delegate Daniel Vasquez, Steward Delegate Henry Edwards. Chairman announced vessel going into shipyard in Gdansk, Poland for three to four weeks. Educational director encouraged members to take ad­ vantage of upgrading opportunities at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported by delegates. Crew reported Seafarers LOGs received. Galley gang thanked for good job. , '•-: * '•';J.' . •rV' ,. - Chairman Timothy J, Olvany, Secrelaiy-Larry Ewing, Educational Director Patrick Coppola. Chairman announced captain signing off in Port Everglades, Fla. He ^vised members that U.S. Coast Guard requires seamen to have benzene card to stay on tankers. Educational director en­ couraged members to upgrade at Lun­ deberg School. He thanked crew­ members for not smoking in messhall and TV room. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward remind^ crew­ members to separate plastics from trash and keep TV room clean. Chair­ man request^ crewmembers not slam doors. Steward department thanked for job well done. SEA-LAND NA VIGATOR (SeaLand Service), September 18—Chair­ man Werner Becher, Secretary J.S. Smith, Educational Director Walter Stevens, Deck Delegate George B. Khan, Engine Delegate Chris Davis, Steward Delegate Jasper Jackson. Chairman reminded crew to keep doors locked in all ports and noted medical forms and vacation forms are in crew lounge. Educational director urged members to take advantage of upgrading opportunities available at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Entire crew gave vote of thanks to steward department for good food and service. Crew re­ quested new toaster. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. GOLDEN MONARCH (Apex Marine), October 8—Chairman B. Benedict, Secretary Timothy Dowd. Chairman noted rooms under repair. New shower decks, curtains, vents and bunk lights are being added. Secretary stated new entertainment system to be purchased in New Or­ leans and crew lounge to be remodeled. Educational director lirged members to upgrade at Piney Point and read union contract. Treasurer reported $1,100 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed limiting plastic utensils on ship. Bosun asked crewmemberrs not to put oily waste in cans on deck. Crew requested refrigerators for rooms. Chairman asked crew to be considerate and not slam doors. OMI PLATTE (OMI), October 2— Chairman Doyle W. Ellette, Secretary Claude C. Hollings III, Deck Delegate Lee DuBany, Engine Delegate Alejandro Martinez, Steward Delegate Anthony St. Clair. Chairman reported ship will politically active. Secret^ thanked crew for separating plastic and gar­ bage. Educational director reminded members to upgrade at Paul Hall Cen­ ter. He stressed importance of refrigeration courses for engine department members. No b^fs or dis­ puted OT reported. Special thanks given to steward deipartment. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. OVERSEAS OHIO (Maritime Over­ seas), October 13—Chairman Wal­ ter Weaver, Secretary Earl N. Gray Sr., Educational Director Scott E. Wilkinson, Deck Delegate Mathew J. Bevak, Engine Delegate Gregory Johns, Steward Delegate Musa Ahmed. Chairman reported good voyage. VCR in need of repair. Secretary explained ship policy of separating plastic from garbage to new crewmembers and report^ new toasters in messhall. Educational direc­ tor reminded members of importance of upgrading skills at Lundeberg School for job security. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Bosun encouraged members to read 'President's Report" in Celebrating a New Year at Sea SEA-LAND PACER (Sea-Land Ser­ vice), September 11—Chairman Wil­ liam F. Murphy, Secretary Michael L. Baker, Educational Director Evaristo Ginez, Deck Delegate Jeffrey D. Mateer, Engine Delegate M. Abdul­ lah, Steward Delegate Lito G. Acosta. Chairman asked contracts depart­ ment to look into shuttle service from ship. Educational director noted all members should take advantage of Piney Point and upgrade. No b^fs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks given to galley gang for excellent job. Helping Kathy Chester, storekeeper on the Long Lines, celebrate her Next port: Pusan, South Korea. birthday are fellow crewmembers (from left) AB Luis Balatbat, AB Jamie SEA-LAND TRADER (Sea-Land Dalisay, AB Sam Tumala, Engine/Utility Ramon Lirag, 3rd Cook Francis Service), September 25—Chairman Clark, Steward Storekeeper Richard Riley, Bosun Helary Dombrowski L.E. Watson, Secretary Jack Utz, (sitting), Chief Cook Vainu'u Sili, Engine/Utility Mario Cruzat, OS Sil­ Educational Director Milton Sabin. vester Bongolan, Bosun's Mate Victor Gil Mariano, Splicer/Joiner Chairman advised crewmembers signEddie Morre, Chester and Chief Electrician Juanito Dansalan. ng off ship to turn in keys and leave room clean. No beefs or disputed OT pay off in New Orleans. He advised Setfarers LOG. Crew gave vote of reported by department delegates. members not to go ashore alone. thanks to galley gang for job well done. SEA-LAND VOYAGER (SeaRepair list posted. Chairman en­ Next port Valdez, Alaskl Land Service), September 18—Chair­ couraged crewmembers to write MVPAUL BUCK (Ocean Shipholdman Daniel W. Seagle, Secretary congressmen urging support for ing), October 9—Chairman John Michael Douroudous, Educational maritime. Secretary announced ship Director R. W. Dehlfow. Educational stocked with 90-day supply of Konetes, Secretary Dwight Wuerth, director discussed importance of Educational Director James Robstores. Educational director taking advantage of educational bins, Deck Delegate Jack Cochran, reminded members to go back to facilities at Paul Hall Center. No Engine Delegate John Newhouse, Harry Lundeberg School to upgrade Steward Delegate Al Young. Chair­ beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew­ skills. Deck and steward delegates man urged crew to become more in­ members received package of holiday reported disputed OT. No beefs or volved in union activities and aware greeting forms with Seafarers'LOGs. disputed OT reported by engine of SIU lobbying efforts on Capitol Crew noted smooth sailing and gave delegate. Crew thanked galley gang special vote of thanks to steward Hill. Secretary announced forms for for job well done. department. vacation and medical benefits avail­ OVERSEAS ALASKA (Maritime able, and advised members of re­ SEALIFT CARIBBEAN (IMC), Overseas), October 13—Chairman quired TB testing before returning to September 18—Chairman M. ship. Educational director urged Roger Pinkham, Secretary L. Pinn, Galbraith, Secretary Dorothy Bar­ members to attend upgrading classes Educational Director Cary Pratts, nes. Deck delegate reminded mem­ at Paul Hall Center to receive all Deck Delegate Sandy Killian, En­ bers to upgrade at Lundeberg School education benefits of the union. En­ gine Delegate Thomas Carl Steinke, and pay union dues on time. Engine gine delegate reported disputed OT. Steward Delegate Jeanette Marquis. delegate reported disputed OT. No No beefs or disputed OT reported by Chairman noted payoff in Tacoma, )eefs or disputed OT reported by deck or steward delegates. Chairman Wash, on October 14 and reminded steward or deck delegates. Steward read guidelines for medical benefits encouraged crewmembers to bring crew to renew z-cards. Educational and outpatient care to crewmembers. dishes to galley. Crew thanked gal­ director advised crew of importance Next Port: St. Theo, Greece. ley gang for job well done. Next port: of upgrading at Paul Hall Center and Beaufort, N.C. donating to SPAD. No beefs or dis­ SEA-LAND DEVELOPER (Seaputed OT reported. Land Service), October 6—Chairman ULTRASEA (Sealift Inc.), Septem­ Dana Cella, Secretary Michael ber 25—Chairman Calvin Miles, Gramer, Educational Director Cliff Secretary Norman Evans, Education­ OVERSEAS NEW ORLEANS McCoy, Deck Delegate J.R. Mc(Maritime Overseas), October 14— al Director J. Williams, Deck Daniel, Engine Delegate Samuel Chairman MaurilioZepeda,' Delegate D. MacGraw, Engine Addo, Steward Delegate Ed Rue. Educa­ Secretary Jonathan White, Delegate I. Manley, Steward Chairman announced new washing tional Director Nelson Patterson, Delegate P, Mena. Chairman an­ machine received and thanked Addo nounced new mail procedures. He Steward Delegate Louins C. and DEU Edward J. Dandy for asked everyone to help keep noise Johnson. Chairman announced hooking it up. Crew noted Seafarers down in passageways and noted payoff in Boston on October 16, then LOGs received while in Japan. Bosun everything running smoothly. Educa­ ship sails to Texas to begin intercos­ urged members to read LOG and tional director reminded crew to . tal run. He encouraged all members write congressmen and senators, as­ rewind movies before returning to who sail aboard tankers to upgrade at king them to support maritime video locker. Treasurer reported $79 Lundeberg School. Educational direc­ reform. Chairman stated all is well on in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed tor also urged members to upgrade at ship and asked everyone to contribute OT reported. Crew extended vote of Piney Point to improve future. No to SPAD to protect jobs and future. thanks to steward department for beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew Secretary thanked crew for keeping »reat meals. Steward asked crew to messhall and lounge in order. No asked contracts department to con­ ceep messhall clean. beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew sider improvements in optical and CHAMPION{Kirhy Tankships), Oc­ dental parts of health plan. asked that the Sea-Land terminal tober 2—Chairman Alvie Rushing, shuttle van operate around the clock Secretary Darrell Touchstone. OVERSEAS OHIO (Maritime Over­ for personal safety of crew. Crew­ Chairman reported all running seas), October 5—Chairman Greg members asked that phone records smoothly. He is awaiting information Hamilton, Secretaiy Earl N. Gray detailing arrival and departure of ves­ on ship's idnerary. Educational direc­ Sr., Educational Director Scott E. sel be updated as soon as it becomes tor encouraged all members to upgrade Wilkinson, Deck Delegate Mathew available. Vote of thanks given to en­ at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disJi Bevak, Engine Delegate Gregory tire steward department for good xited OT reported. Crew gave vote of Johns, Steward Delegate Duane Berood and clean ship. Crew requested thanks to galley gang for outstanding geson. Chairman reported smooth payoff upon arrival in next port, job. sailing and asked members to stay Tacoma, Wash. . •--•-•u-irrr? _i.iEsr:s; �DECEMBER 1994 SEAFARERS LOG 27 On the S-L Expedition Crew Meets Fast Turnaround Pace Just back from a union meeting aboard the Sea-Land Expedition, SIU Patrolman Jack Sheehan reported that work for the crew is fast-paced. Given the tight schedule of the 670-foot containership, which calls at several East Coast, Gulf Coast and Puerto Rico ports in a 28-day voyage, the work must get done quicUy and safely. Operated by Sea-Land Service Inc., the Sea-Land Expedition Deck Engineer Sam Negron (left) and Bosun Norberto Prats take a sails from Elizabeth, N.J. to San break while docked in Elizabeth. N.J. during a union meeting. Juan, P.R.; then to ports in the |l%f Dominican Republic; Jackson­ ville, Fla.; New Orleans; Kingston, Jamaica; and back to Elizabeth, which concludes the 28-day voyage. "Because this ship is always on the go,it is imperative that the engines are in excellent shape to keep up with the busy sailing schedule. The engine department works really hard to make sure everything is in proper working order," Sheehan told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG. Steward department members Chief Steward Edgardo Vaz­ quez and Chief Cook Leopoldo Ruiz prepare different soups, vegetables and meats along with a wide assortment of salad bar items on a daily basis for crewmembers. "Bosun Norbert Prats is a hard worker who expects a lot from his [deck department] crew. They are always busy making improvements and keeping the deck up to par, which is some­ times difficult with the schedule that the ship keeps," recalled Sheehan. He added that while in port, it takes the vessel between 10 and 24 hours to load or offload cargo. "They really are a good crew on the Sea-Land Expedition. It is a demanding and a very busy ship and everyone works really well together to get the job done," said the New York patrolman. The Sea-Land Expedition was built in 1973 and can carry 723 40-foot containers or FEUs I (Forty-foot Equivalent Units).The vessel was upgraded in 1981 and Chief Steward Edgardo Vazquez (left) and Chief Cook Leopoldo Ruiz Standing gangway watch aboard the Sea-Land Expedition is AS currendy has a capacity of 35,250 help keep the Exped/Y/on'screwmembers well fed while at sea. Joseph Osorio. metric tons. SIU Crews New Suifio' Carrier Seafarers in New Orleans recently began crewing a rtewly christened vessel, the MVSulphur Enterprise. Operated by Sulphur Carriers, Inc., an affiliate of Inter­ national Shipholding Corpora­ tion, the 524-foot vessel is under charter to Freeport-McMoRan Resource Partners Inc., a prin­ ciple producer of phosphate fer­ tilizer in the U.S. It was built at McDermott shipyards at a cost of $58 million dollars and has the latest tech­ nological shipboard and naviga­ tional innovations, including a state-of-the-art engineroom. The cargo operation has been fully automated as well. Powered by a 9,840 hp diesel engine, the Sulphur Enterprise was built specifically for the dedi­ cated sulfur trade and will operate primarily in the Gulf between Port Sulphur, La. and Tampa, Fla. with stops in other ports as re­ quired, carrying cargoes of up to 24,000 metric tons of molten sul­ fur. It, replaces the Louisiana Brimstone, a sulfur tanker that was wrecked in Mexico in 1991. cSf th'e focltion of stofe?he 2^!? JSeroom Will need for the next voyage. engineroom aboard the Sulphur Enterpnse. Students Get a Look at Today's Navigators Chief Cook Gregorick Gordon Overseeing operations of the begins preparations for lunch deck department is Bosun Mauro aboard the sulfur carrier. DelaCerda. Devouring Portland's Finest Before sailing for the Mediterranean, crewmembers aboard the Sgt. Mate} Kocak get a chance to sample some of Portland, Maine's famous cuisine—steamed lobster. Handling the delec­ table crustaceans are Chief Cook Audrey Brown (left) and Chief Steward Lonnie Gamble. A group of St. Louis children, ages 2 to 13, who are studying famous explorers and navigators of the world, visited the SIU hall in St. Louis recently to leam about modem-day seafarers and navigators. Port Agent Joe Sigler (back row, left) shared with them bits of SIU history and tales of his own sailing days as an AB. , �l-'^ 28 DECEMBER 1994 SOFAR^LOG Know Your Rights SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT GREATLAKES TUG AND DREDGE PENSION PLAN PAYMENT OF MONIES. FINANCIAL REPORTS No monies are to be paid to anyone This is a summary of theannual report of Greal Lakes Tug and Dr^ge Pension Plan, ™ The constitution of the SIU Atthe year ended December 31, 1993. The annual report has been filed with the Internal Revenue Service, as antic. Gulf, Lakes and Inland in any official capacity in the SIU required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Waters District makes specific unless an official union receipt is irovision for safeguarding the »iven for same. Under no cir­ fos/c Financial Statamant membership's money and union cumstances should any member "inances. The constitution re­ lay any money for any reason unBenefits under the plan are provided by the Trust ju r-f quires a detailed audit by certified ess he is given such receipt. In Ae PlanexpenseswereSl,050,614. Thesesexpensesincludedadministrativeexpensesof$169,107andte^^^ public accountants every year, event anyone attempts to require paid to partkipants and beneficiaries of $881,507. A to^ of 545 persons were partcip^ts m any such payment be made without of, the plan at the end of the plan year, although not all of these persons had yet earned the nght to receive which is to be submitted to Ihe supplying a receipt, or if a member membership by the secretaryis requii^ to make a payment and The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $18,914,665 as of December 31,1993, treasurer. A yearly finance corrumt- is given an official receipt, but feels tee of rank-and-file members, compared to $17,565,141 as of January 1,1W3. . , elected by the membership, each that he or she should not have been During the plan year the plan experienced an increase in its net asMts of $1,M9,524. This year examines the finances of the required to make such payment, unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the diffe^ce union and reports fiilly their find­ this should immediately be the plan's asSs at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the ^ginning of the ye^ ings and recommendations. Mem- reported to union headquarters. assets acquired during the year. The plan had a total income of $2,4(^,138, mcluding CONSTITUTIONAL of $104,674, employee contributions of $242,614, a gain of $713,278 from the sale of assets, earmngs from jers of this comnuttee may make RIGHTS AND OBLIGA­ dissenting reports, specific recom­ investments of $1,338,966 and miscellaneous income of $606. TIONS. Copies of the SIU con­ mendations and separate findings. stitution are available in all union Minimum Funding Stantkirds TRUST FUNDS. All trust rails. All members should obtain funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, copies of this constitution so as to An actuauy's statement shows that enough money was Lakes and Inland Waters District l amiliarize themselves with its with the minimum funding standards of ERISA. are administered in accord^ce contents. Any time a member feels with the provisions of various < Your Rights To Additional Information trust fund agreements. All these any other member or officer is at­ tempting to deprive him or her of You have a right to receive a copy of the full annual report or any part thereof;^ on request. The items hsted agreements specify that the trus­ any constitutional right or obligatees in charge of these funds shall below are included in that report: equally consist of union and ion by any methods, such as deal­ 1. An accountant's report, management representatives and ing with charges, trials, etc., as well 2. Assets held for investment, their alternates. All expenditures as all other details, the member so 3. Actuarial information regarding the funding of the plan and and disbursements of trust funds affected should immediately notify 4. Transactions in excess of 5% of plan assets. KT- i, i i are made only upon approval by readquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All meinTo obtain a coov of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the offic^f Mn i^holas J. a majority of the trustees. All trust Manone, the plan administrator, 5201 Auth Way,Camp Springs, ^ 20746, telephone (301) 8^-^75. The charge nnd financial records are avail­ bers are guaranteed equal rights in to cover copjmg costs will be $1.50 for the full annual report, or $.10 per page for any part thereof. able at the headquarters of the employment and as members of the You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on f®9uest and at no diMge, ™ various trust funds. SIU. These rights are clearly set the assets and liabilities of the plan, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan OT both, brth in the SIU constitution and in SHIPPING RIGHTS, a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator these two statements will the contracts which the union has member's shipping rights and that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these seniority are protected exclusiye- negotiated with the employers. portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. y by contracts between the union Consequently, no member may be You Jro have'the legaUy protect^ right to examine the annual report at the main office j!?® 5201 and the employers. Members discriminated against because of Auth Way, Camp and at the U.S. or to obtain a 'amp Springs, spnngs, N4D MU 20746, ZO/W, anu ai uic u.o. Department of Labor in Washmgton^DC, .. , ij should get to know their shipping race, creed, color, sex, national or copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to be aWssed to: PubUc Disclosure Room, N5507, Pension and Welfare Programs, Department of Labor, 200 rights. Copies of these contracts geographic origin. If any member are posted and available in all feels that he or she is denied the Constitution Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20210. union halls. If members believe equal rights to which he or she is there have been violations of their entitled, the member should SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION shipping or seniority rights as con­ notify union headquarters. In accordance with the Department of Labor Regulafions, the net realired gain oW13,278^shown^ SEAFARERS POLITICAL tained in the contracts between the is computed on the "market-to-market basis"-the Mference betw^n the Ae m^^^ i^^ue of union and the employers, they ACTIVITY DONATION — an asset as of January 1,1993; or if the asset was both acquired and disposed of within the plan year, it is the should notify the Seafarers Ap­ SPAD. SPAD is a separate difference between the purchase and sale price. . t. peals Board by certified mail, segregated fiind. Its proceeds are Included in the net appreciation (depreciation) in fair market value of investments of $1,002,%7, as sh^ return receipt requested. The used to further its objects arid pur­ on the financial statements, is $713,278 of net realized gain — which is the difference between the sales price proper address for this is; poses including, but not limited to, and the original cost of the assets. furthering the political, social and Augustin Tellez, Chairman economic interests of maritime Seafarers Appeals Board workers, the preservation and fur­ 5201 Auth Way thering of the American merchant Camp Springs, MD 20746 LOG-A-RHYTHMS Full copies of contracts as marine with improved employ­ referred to are available to members ment opportunities for seamen and at all times, either by writing direcdy boatmen and the advancement of by Teddy Dai to the union or to the Seafarers Ap­ trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports peals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of al and contributes to political can­ SIU contracts are available in al didates for elective office. All con­ SIU halls. These contracts specify tributions are voluntary. No the wages and conditions unde contribution may be solicited or which an SIU member works and received because of force, job dis­ On a calm, serene and peaceful mom, lives aboard a ship or boat. Mem­ crimination, financial reprisal, or A brilliant, phosphorous light was horn. bers should know their contract threat of such conduct, or as a con­ rights, as well as their obligations, dition of membership in the union With a cool, gentle breeze flowing along. such as filing for overtime (OT) on or of employment. If a contribution O'er the glassy surface of which we belong. the proper sheets and in the proper is made by reason of the above Patches of white strewn across the sky, manner. If, at any time, a member improper conduct, the member believes that an SIU patrolman or should notify the Seafarers Interna­ Withflying feathered friends gliding by. other union official fails to protect tional Union or SPAD by certified their contractual rights properly, he mail within 30 days of thecontribu­ Porpoises splasing with playful jest. or she should contact the nearesr tion for investigation and aj^ Much wonder we see, heading out West.. propriate action and refund, if SIU port agent. ^ involuntary. A member should EDITORIAL POLICY — At times we catch sight of a mighty whale. THE SEAFARERS LOG. The support SPAD to protect and fur­ Waterspout, a leap and a spash with its tail. Seafarers LOG traditionally has ther his or her economic, political refrained from publishing any article and social interests, and American serving the political purposesof any trade union concepts. The sun disappears with a flash of green. NOTIFYING THE UNION individual in the union, officer or Memories of light, with beauty just seen. member. It also has refiained fiom If at any time a member feels that What makes a voyage ever so right. publishing articles deemed haimfu any of the above rights hav&been to the union or its collective member­ violated, or that he or she has been Fine weather like this—a sailor's delight. ship. This established policy has been denied the constitutional right of A place to be, is out at sea. reaffirmed by membership action r' access to union records or infor­ the September 1960 meetings in a mation, the member should im­ Enjoying this fine day, arid just being me. constitutional ports. The respon­ mediately notify SIU President sibility for Seafarers LOG policy i Michael Sacco at headquarters vested in an editorial board whic ^ by certified mail, return receipt consists of theexecutive board of the requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President union. The executive board may (Teddy Dei most recently sailed as an AB aboard the Sea-Land Spirit. He ^rote Sailor s Seafarers International Union delegate, from among its ranks, one Delight" in June 1994 while aboard that vessel. Brother Doi sails out of the port of Honolulu.) 5201 Auth Way individual to carry out this respon Camp Springs, MD 20746. sibility. Sailor's Delight ill- SI •4 �'j- ' * ' •^ • : DECEMBER 1994 SEAFARERS LOG 29 Final Departures DEEP SEA ANTONIO ALFONSO Pensioner Antonio Alfonso, 86, passed away September 28. Bom in Cuba, he joined the Seafarers in 1960 in the port of New York. Brother Alfonso retired as a chief steward. He completed the Class A Seniority upgrading program at the Lundeberg School in 1964. Brother Alfonso retired in October 1976. ROQUEASENCIO Pensioner Roque Asencio, 87, died September 19. A native of Puerto Rico, he began sailing with the SlU in 1955 in the port of San Francisco. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Asencio began receiving his pension in November 1972. : ; •" '•. )3>- EDWARD P. AVRARD Pensioner Edward P. Avrard, 89, passed away September 11. Bom in New Orleans, he joined the union in 1952 in the port of New York. He sailed in both the deck and engifie departments. Brother Avrard retired in April 1970. CHARLES W. BLACK Pensioner Charles W. Black, 79, died Septem­ ber 19. He joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1953 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SlU's Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters Dis­ trict (AGLIWD). Brother Black began receiving his pension in July 1978. RAY H. CASANOVA Pensioner RayH. Casanova, 72, passed away October 4. A native of Mis­ sissippi, he joined the Seafarers in 1946 in the ^rt of New Orleans. He sailed in the steward department and upgraded to chief steward. Brother Casanova retired in August 1982. PETER L. CHRISTOPHER Pensioner Peter L. Christopher, 68, died September 4. A native of Massachusetts, he started his sail­ ing career with the SlU in 1947 in the port of Norfolk, Va. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Christopher began receiving his pension in August 1987. JAMES E. CRANE James E. Crane, 38, died October 21. A native of Califomia, he joined the Seafarers in 1978 in the port of New York. Brother Crane sailed in both the deck and engine departments. CHARLIE C. CONNER Charlie C. Conner, 64, passed away October 30. Bom in Geor­ gia, he began sailing with the union in 1955 in the port of Savan- nah, Ga. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Conner served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1946 to 1948. EDWARD E. DAVIDSON Pensioner Ed­ ward E. Davidson, 72, passed away October 8. Bom in Texas, he joined the union in 1956 in the port of Baltimore. He sailed in the steward department and upgraded to chief cook. Brother Davidson served in the U.S. Navy from 1940 to 1945. He retired in January 1987. PATRICK G. FOX Pensioner Patrick G. Fox, 85, died October 25. A native of New York, he joined the Seafarers in 1943 in the port of Baltimore, sail­ ing as a member of the engine department. Brother Fox served in the U.S. Navy from 1929 to 1934. He began receiving his pension in Febraary 1980. ARMANDO FRISSORA Pensioner Ar­ mando Frissora, 67, passed away September 9. Bom in New York, he joined the SlU in 1946 in the port of New York. He sailed in the steward department. Brother Frissora retired in January 1992. CRISANTOGARFIN Pensioner Crisanto Garfin, 97, died September 7. A native of the Philippine Islands, he joined the union in 1947 in the port of New Orleans. He sailed in the steward department. Brother Garfin began receiving his pension in September 1969. ANTONIO GARZA Pensioner Antonio Garza, 66, passed away October 27. Bom in Texas, he joined the Seafarers in 1955 in the port of New York. He sailed in the engine department and upgraded to QMED at the Lun­ deberg School in 1974. Brother Garza served in the U.S. Marine Co^s from 1945 to 1946. He retired in April 1986. JOSEPH N. GEORGE Pensioner Joseph N. George, 84, died October 6. Bom in Lebanon, he joined the SlU in 1960 in the port of Detroit. He legan sailing on the Great Lakes. Later he transferred to the union's deep sea division. Brother George sailed in the engine department. He tiegan receiving his pension in anuary 1975. JAMES M. GLENN JR. Pensioner James M. Glenn Jr., 72, lassed away October 6. A native of Atlanta, Ga., he joined the union in 1944 in the port of New York. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Glenn retired in July 1983. HENRY GOCK Pensioner Henry Gock, 88, died June 16. Bom in Milwaukee, Wis., he joined the Seafarers in 1943 in the port of New York. He sailed in the deck depart­ ment. Brother Gock began receiv­ ing his pension in May 1971. DONALD M. HOLLINGSWORTH Donald M. Hollingsworth, 48, passed away Septem­ ber 18. A na­ tive of Washington, he joined the SlU in 1965 in the port of Seattle. He sailed in the steward department. Brother Hollingsworth graduated from the Marine Cooks and Stewards* train­ ing school in 1973 and upgraded at the Lundeberg School in 1985. JOHN E. JORDAN Pensioner John E. Jor­ dan, 60, died September 1. Bom in Alabama, he began sailing with the union in 1958 in the port of Mobile, Ala. He sailed in the en­ gine department. Brother Jordan retired in June 1991. JOE ISAAC JUSTUS Pensioner Joe Isaac Justus, 68, passed away October 18. A native of South Carolina, he joined the Seafarers in 1947 in the port of Norfolk, Va. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Jus­ tus completed the bosun recertification program at the Lundeberg School in 1975. He began receiving his pension in March 1988. He leaves his wife, Edith, who resides in Edneyville, N.C. Mobile, Ala. He sailed in the en­ gine department, most recently as chief electrician. JAMES MARTIN Pensioner James Martin, 76, passed away September 10. Bom in Scotland, he joined the SlU in 1951 in the port of New York. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Martin served in the U.S. Army from 1947 to 1951. He began receiving his pension in December 1985. GERALD J. MCCARTHY Pensioner Gerald J. McCarthy, 70, died September 6. A native of Newfoundland, Canada, he joined the union in 1951 in the port of New York. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded to chief mate. Brother McCarthy retired in November 1990. EDUARDO MELENDEZ Pensioner Eduardo Melendez, 68, passed away October 5. Bom in Puer­ to Rico, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1959 in the port of San Francis­ co, before that union merged with the AGLIWD. Brother Melendez began receiving his pension in Sep­ tember 1986. RALPH R. NAY Pensioner Ralph R. Nay, 71, died Oc­ tober 1. A na­ tive of West Virginia, he began sailing with the Seafarers in 1952 in the port of Baltimore. Brother Nay sailed in the steward department. He retired in March 1988. JOSEPH SCARAMUTZ Pensioner Joseph Scaramutz, 74, passed away October 15. Bom in New York, he joined the SlU in 1950 in the port of Savannah, Ga. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Scaramutz began receiving his pension in Febmary 1976. FRIDTJOF STEELREATH Pensioner Fridtjof Steelreath, 66, died ROBERT LAMAESTRA October 26. Robert LaBom in CharMaestra, 46, lesville, Va., died Septem­ he joined the ber 27. Bom union in 1971 in Pennsyl­ in the port of vania, he Mobile. He joined the sailed in the deck department and SlU in 1991 upgraded his skills at the Lun­ in the port of deberg School. Brother Steelreath Philadelphia. served 20 years in the U.S. Brother LaMaestra sailed as a mem­ military: from 1947 to 1950 in the ber of the steward department. Navy, and from 1952 to 1969 in the Air Force. He retired in Septem­ SVERRELEKNESS ber 1993. Pensioner Sverre LekCHARLES E. TAYLOR ness, 64, Pensioner Charles E. Taylor, 68, passed away passed away October 9. A nadve September of North Carolina, he began sailing 27. Bom in with the Seafarers in 1951 in the Norway, he port of Norfolk, Va. He sailed in joined the union in 1956 the engine department. Brother Taylor served in the U.S. Nayy in the port of from 1943 to 1946. He began Philadelj^hia. He sailed in the deck receiving his pension in Febmary department. Brother Lekness 1988. retired in July 1979. WILLIAM VELAZQUEZ [:HARLES L. LONG Pensioner William Velazquez, 65, Charles L. Long, 67, died October died October 23. Bom in New 21. A native of Alabama, he joined York, he joined the union in 1945 the Seafarers in 1945 in Ae port of in the port of Mobile, Ala. He sailed in the deck department Brother Velazquez upgraded at the Lundeberg School and completed the bosun recertification program there in 1975. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1943 to 1944. Brother Velazquez retired in December 1993. JOHN WADE JR. Pensioner John Wade Jr., 65, passed away October 21. Bom in Michigan, he began sailing with the union in 1946 in the port of New York. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Wade upgraded to QMED at the Lun­ deberg School in 1975. He retired in March 1986. LEONARD A. WILCOX IH Leonard A. Wilcox 111, 35, died Oc­ tober 16. Bom in Philadelphia, he began sail­ ing with the SlU in 1978 in the port of Piney Point, Md. after completing the Lundeberg School's training course for entry level seamen. Brother Wilcox sailed in the deck department and retumed to the school for upgrading in 1989. INLAND GERALD L. ALGERNON Pensioner Gerald L. Algemon, 71, passed away October 21. Bom in Trinidad in the British West Indies, he joined the union in 1956 in the port of Mobile, Ala. He sailed in the engine depart­ ment. Boatman Algernon began receiving his pension in May 1973. THOMAS J. ANTONCIC Pensioner Thomas J. Antoncic, 72, died October 7. A native of Pennsylvania, he joined the Seafarers in 1965 in the port of Philadelphia. He sailed in the deck department—including as a mate. He obtained his master-first class pilot license. Boatman Antoncic retired in April 1986. ALFRED A. FORTES Alfred A. For­ tes, 76, died September 29. Bom in East Provi­ dence, R.I., he joined the SlU in the port of New York in 1979. He sailed in the steward depart­ ment as chief steward. ARTHUR A. MILLER 'ensioner Arthur A. Miller, 72 jassed away October 17. Bom in Jrooklyn, he joined the Seafarers in 1973 in the port of Philadelphia. Boatman Miller achieved a mate Continued on page 30 �-'="vj'''-r;'""r •••'•.. ^;.. ••' -• :rV ;v'--- - 30 :. DECEMBER 1094 SEAFARERS LOG Liindeberg School Graduating Classes 3-? ;;:IKsn'. ,?;;g';.••?!;, •;::. . j;'-- OMED—Upgrading members of the engine department completing the QMED course are (from left, kneeling) David Vega, James Perez, Steven Sanchez, Miwos, Mohamed Alsinai, (second row) Charles Wharton, Jason Fields, Leonar^Viles, Sean Foumier, Kenneth Spivey, Paul Pagano, Patrick Scott, Tina Smith, (third row) John Thompson, William Marshall, Ronald Pheneuf, Daniel Blackwell, Charles Donley, Bemard Pogue, Howard Schoenly, Daniel Hoskins, William Summers and John Miller Jr. Trainee Lifeboat Class 530-- Graduating from trainee lifeboat class 530 are (from left, kneeling) Martin Jimenez Jr., Carlos Teixeira, Craig Perry, Jamil Shaibi, (second row) Jason Peters, Andrew HertDert III, Jason Bengiat Elton Caine Craddock, Frederick Waters and Jake Karaczynski (instructor). Able Bodied Seaman—Certificates of completion were received by the Oc­ tober 17 class of upgraders. They are (from left, kneeling) Paul Szalus, Dan Del Buono, Larry A. Gross, Miles S. Copeland, Dale L Rice Jr., (second row) Kurt Mayer, Andre Celestial Navigation—Upgrading SlU members completing the celestial naviga­ Skevnick, Christopher Sykes, Brian Gaffigan, Ronald Gibbs, Anthony Lozupone, Melvin tion course on Octofer 19 are (from left, first row) John Gilliam, Christopher Kavanagh, Leguillow, Matthew Knudsen and Tom Gilliland (instructor). John Fawley, Michael H. Hulme, (second row) Scott Kreger, James Sullivan, John Baker and Jim Brovim (instmctor). SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR SEAFARERS PENSION TRUST This is a summary of the annual report of the Seafarers Pension Trust EIN 13-6100329 for the year ended December 31,1993. The annual report has been filed with the Internal Revenue Service, as required under the l^ployee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Basic Financial Stalement iiSi# Benefits under the plan are provided by the Trust. Plan expenses were $29,449,258. These expenses included $3,491,487 in administrative expenses and $2,595,777 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 23,331 persons were participants in, or beneficiaries of, the plan at the end of the plan year, although not all of these persons had yet earned the right to receive benefits. The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $507,295,192 as of December 31, 1993, compared to $493,711,389 as of January 1,1993. . . . During the plan year, the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $15,507,205. This increase included unrealized appreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between thecurrent valueof assetsat the beginning of the year plus the cost of any assets acquired during the year less the current value of assets at the end of the year. The plan had a total income of $44,956,463, including employer contributions of $3,065,057, a gain of $7,095,820 from the sale of assets, earnings from investments of $34,961,497 and other income (loss) of ($165,913). Minimum Funding Standards An actuary's statement shows that enough money wascontributed to the plan to keep it funded in accordance with the minimum funding standards of ERISA. ;?V / ••-W. Your Rights to Additional Informadon You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request The items listed below are included in that report: 1. An accountant's report, 2. Assets-held for investment, 3. Actuarial information regarding the funding of tlw plan, 4. Service provider and trustee information and 5. Reportable transactions. «r.. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of Mr. Nick Marrone, the plan administrator, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746, telephone (301) 899-0675. The charge to cover copying costs will be $3.50 for the full annual report, or $.10 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request andat nocharge, a statement of the assets and liabilitiesof the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report firom the plan administrator, these two stateirients and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report becat^ these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan at 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, DC, or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of cc^ying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: Public Disclosure Room N4677, Pension and Welfare Benefit Programs, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20216. Supplemental Information In accordance with Department of Labor Regulations, the net realized gain of $3,659,232, as shown above, is computed on the "market-to-market basis" —- the difference between the sales price and the market value of an asset as of January 1,1992; or if the asset was both acqmred and disposed of within the plan year, it is the difference between the purchase and sales price. The net appreciation in fair value of investments of $5,803,137, as shown on the financial statements, includes a net realized gain of $13,507,985, the difference between the sales price and the original cost of the asset. • -s^r •J" .,^:L;; Radar—Renewing their radar endorsements on October 21 are (from left, kneeling) Andrew Smith, Steven Tepper, Virgilio Penales, Jared Blavat, (second row) David Kittorton, Constantin lordache, Chris Conway, Jim Brown (instructor), Thomas Keenan Jr. and Ken Frederick. Final Departures Continued from page 29 position, then upgraded to inland master. He com­ pleted the Mate and Master Freight and Towing course at the Lundeberg School in May 1983. He retired in December 1987. JOSEPH B.JARVIS Pensioner Joseph B. Jarvis, 73, died October 14. A native of North Carolina, he joined theSIU in 1960 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Boatman Jarvis started sailing as a deckhand, ad­ vanced to mate, and went on to get his inland captain's license. He began receiving his pension in May 1984. JOHN POPA Pensioner John Popa, 78, died October 2. A native of Cleveland, he Joined the inland division of the SIU in 1961 in the port of Philadelphia, having pre­ viously sailed in the deep sea division from 1941 to 1960. He was a member of the deck department. Boatman Popa began receiving his pension in June 1976. GREAT LAKES ROBERT E. BOWDITCH Pensioner Robert E. Bowditch, 81, passed away September 26. Born in Ohio, hejoined the union in 1961 in the port of Lorain, Ohio. Brother Bowditch sailed as a deckhand, then lead deckhand. He retired in January 1978. EARLEF.BURDICK Pensioner Earle F. Burdick, 69, died Septem­ ber 8. A native of New York, he join^ the Seafarers in 1961 in the port of Buffalo, N.Y. Brother Burdick sailed in both the Great Lakes and inland divisions as a deckhand. He began receiving his pension in February 1987. JOSEPH L. COOKSEY Pensioner Joseph L. Cooksey, 70, passed away October 25. Bom in Indiana, he joined the SIU in 1963 in the port of Chicago. He sailed as a deckhand. Brother Cooksey retired in June 1986. �•. • V - • •• i' '' •'• ' C • ' - " • SEAFARBRS UKB DECEMBER 1994 31 ' . ' • i LUMDEBERG SCHOOL 1995 UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE The following is the course schedule for classes beginning between January and April 1995 at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship located at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. All programs are geared to improve job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. Course Assistant Cook/Cook and Baker (to be announced) Chief Cook, Chief Steward (to be announced) Date of Completion Able Seaman January 16 April 7 Bridge Management (Shiphandling) February 6 April 24 February 17 May 5 January 2 January 13 January 23 February 27 April 10 February 3 Marcb 10 April 21 Course •' ' •t' I..''.;.'.' . •Wssfm Lifeboatman . Radar Observer/Unlimited Date of Completion Start Date Course January 16 April 7 Mardi 2B f AprU 14 (tol^ anntpundi^ QMED - Any Rating Diesel Engine Technology Refrigeration T^hnician Certification Hydraulics Marine Electrical MainL I idaiiiiie Electrical Maint. II Power Plant Maintenance •i' ; March 24 February 20 February 17 January 9 April 21 March 13 February 17 January 9 June 2 April 24 April 7 March 27 Pumproom Maintenance Mayl9 April 24 Refrigerated Containers March 17 February 20 Welding All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. 0^ Start Date laiami Courses M students must take the Oil SpitiPrevention and Containment class. SaMy Specialty Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Deck Inland March 27 April 7 Diesel February 27 March 1(1 DDE/Limited License Prep^ jVlarch 27 AprU7 February 10 CJbiurse Date Date of Completion Advanced Firefigbting March 6 March 17 Englneroom Familiarization January 30 Oil Spill Safety Recertification January26 February 23 March 30 April 27 . January 26 February 23 March 30 April 27 Radar Observer (Rivers) | : ••••Mays • ?-••-••• January 2 January 30 February 27 March 27 April24 January 27^ February 24 March 24 April 21 May 19 start -y ^ ' .• Course Start Date Date of Completion Bosun Recertiflcation Mayl June 5 January 30 March 6 Steward Recertification Radar Observer (bidaii^j Address (Middle) (Rrst) (Lasl) (Slreel) (Zip Code) (Stale) (City) Date of Birth. Telephone ( (Area Code) Lakes Member • Deep Sea Member D :|iBl , • f'} \• •- : May 12 I. Y The following courses are available through the Seafarers Hahy Lundeberg School. Please contact the admissions office for enrollment information. Course Date of Enrollment Dateof Completion GED Preparation January 30 April 21 Adult Basic Education (AB0and English as a Second Language (ESL) January 30 April 3 March 24 May 26 Se^ionl January 30 ! March 24 Primary language spoken UPGRADING APPUCATMH Name (to be announced) W:SiMvi AtUmonalComses •MS# •' . . RecermcaneaPrograrns £'>iv s-,V4< The course schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the nation's security. On pages 15-18 in this month's Seafarers LOG, in a Lundeberg School supplement, is a description of the facility's courses and a schedule of classes for the entire year. Date of Completion Start Date (Month/Day/Year) Inland Waters Member D With this application, COPIES of your discharges must be submitted showing suffi­ cient time to qualify yourself for the course(s) requested. Youalsomust submit aCOPY of each of the following: the first page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, your clinic card and the front and back ofyour z-card as well as your Lundeberg School identification card listing the course(s) you have taken and com­ pleted. The Admissions Office WILL NOT schedule you until all of the above are received. BEGIN END DATE DATE COURSE If the following information is notfdledout completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security # *— — Seniority .Department U.S. Citizen: • Yes • No Home Port. Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held Are you a graduate of the SHLSS trainee program? If yes, ** J class ..# • Have you attended any SHLSS upgrading courses? Rating: LAST VESSEL: Date On: Date Off: DATE. • Ves DNO SIGNATURE. • Ves DNO NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. If yes, course(s) taken VV.*"! ; Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? 11 • Yes DNO FirefighlingrDYes GNO CPRrDYes GNO RETURN COMPLETED APPLICATION TO: Lundeberg Upgrading Center, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674. V' ' ' • •, �SEAmRERS Volume 56, Number 12 SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORTS Great Lakes Tug and Dredge Pension Plan — Page 28 Seafarers Pension Trust — Page 30 December 1994 Historic Baltimore Tug Sails Again Retired Seafarers Honored for Role in Restoration long history. "I thought the ceremony was great. It was a feather in the cap of the Port of Baltimore," said Mamoliti, 71, who sailed in the SIU's inland division from 1957 until 1984. Three retired Sea­ farers from Baltimore recently were on hand to celebrate a part of local history which they helped revive. Herb Groh, Jasper Mamoliti and Hal Thompson, who sailed as tugboat captains, were recognized for their volunteer efforts during a pier-side event marking the^claration of the stdwT^tugboat Bal­ timore as a National Historic Landmark. "Between the three of us, we have 150 years of experience handling tugs of this type. There aren't many people around with that kind of experience,\|ioted Groh, a charter meilfeeri of the Seafarers who lau)§;hingly described his ^ as "over 70." He, Mamoliti and Thompson pilot the tug around the Baltimore Harbor two weekends per year as part of a regularly scheduled tour of the Baltimore Museum of Industry, which is the vessel's per­ manent home. A dozen passengers are permitted on each trip, and the boat is full for each voyage. The former SIU inland division mariners, who also occasionally pilot the boat for charters, joined dozens of other volun­ teers who helped restore and maintain the Bal­ timore, which sank in 1979 and did not operate again until 1990. Volunteers Felt Rewarded "The volunteers have worked very hard, so it was nice to see this occasion," stated Thompson, 68, who like Mamoliti spent most of his career working aboard Curtis Bay Towing vessels. "I thought the whole thing was appropriate." Groh added that, while they enjoy being involved with the tug and the museum, he and the other volunteers maintain a serious and professional at­ titude when it comes to up­ keep and operation of the Baltimore. "With the pas­ sengers, we explain all aspects of the Coast Guard regulations that govern the boat. We have a boundary, and we're also mindful of any adverse weather condi­ tions," he said. Still, the retirees all agreed that they enjoy having an outlet for their vast seafaring knowledge. "It's a great feeling to be able to demonstrate every­ thing you've learned and to still be using your skills," concluded Groh, who used to work as a ship-docking pilot. "When I retired (in 1982), the most troubling thought was, 'What will I do with all this Pictured from left are retired Seafarers Herb Groh, Jasper Mamoliti and Hal Thompson, who voluntarily pilot the historic knowledge?' The Bal­ tug Baltimoreon behalf of the Baltimore Museum of Industry. Inset: Invited guests and passers-by observe the pier-side timore gives all of us an A Part of ceremony celebrating the boat's certification as a National Historic Landmark. opportunity to volunteer Baltimore History that experience to the Built in 1906 at a cost of less nesses and civic organizations rechristened the tug amidst loud ceremony, including Bentley maritime community and to the and maritime historian Kevin museum, instead of sitting on a than $30,000, the 89-foot boat donated time, expertise and applause. Speakers at the recent Foster, recalled the Baltimore's bar stool or chasing a golf ball." operated for decades as a city- money for the task of restoring owned icebreaker. The Bal­ the Baltimore. timore, with its wrought-iron Not until 1985 was the boat's hull and Georgia pine wheel- boiler lit for the first time since house, also moved barges and the sinking; it took five more The National Center for Summers was 3 feet tall when pile drivers and sometimes was years before the Baltimore Missing and Exploited he was abducted. The blondeused for passenger tours. would leave the dock under its Children has asked the haired, blue-eyed boy weighed It was sold in 1963 and sub­ own power. Seafarers International Union 35 pounds and has a cleft lip sequently operated as a pleasure Although the Baltimore to assist them in locating Ian and a repaired cleft palate. boat on the Eastern Shore. But it again has been operational for Scott Summers, who was ab­ Anyone having infonnation sank at a dock during the severe several years, the October 21 ducted in Greenbelt, Md. by his on the whereabouts of Ian Scott winter of 1979. ceremony marked the culmina­ non-custodial mother, Rebekah Summers should contact the Na­ Two years later, the tug was tion of all the volunteers' work. Summers, when he was 3 years tional Center for Missing and raised by a local contractor and A plaque was unveiled noting old. A felony warrant for kid­ Exploited Children at (800) was donated to the non-profit the Baltimore's certification as napping has been issued in her 843-5678 or the Missing Per­ museum. From there, retired a National Historic Landmark, name. (She also goes by the sons Unit of the Greenbelt tugboatmen like- Groh, and retiring Rep. Helen Delich name Rebekah Lynn Woods,) (Md.) Police Departiiiciit at Mamoliti and Thompson, as Bentley (D-Md.)—longtime Now 4 years old, Ian Scott (301)474-7200. Ian Scott Summers well as local residents, busi- supporter of U.S. shipping- Help Locate This Missing Chiid •f^' i~^•^ • � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 1990-1999 Description An account of the resource Volumes LII-LXI Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993; Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource December 1994 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES KESTREL CREW PRAISED BY NAVY FOR BARGE TRANSFER OPERATIN LAWSUIT OF SIU, FISHERMEN’S GROUPS RESULTS IN 16% MORE FLOUNDER QUOTA HOUSE, SENATE SHIFT TO REPUBLICAN CONTROL TO DATE, EFFECT OF NOVEMBER ELECTIONS ON MARITIME IS UNCERTAIN UNION’S SCHOOL ANNOUNCES NEWLY FASHIONED COURSES SIU REFUTES ALLEGATIONS ON QUALIFICATIONS OF SEALIFT TANKERS’ CREWS MARAD ALLOWS APL TO FLAG-OUT SIX NEW SHIPS RESCUE IN THE PACIFIC LOPEZ CREW AIDS STRANDED ISLANDERS TOWBOAT OPERATORS NEED RADAR ENDORSEMENT; LUNDEBERG SCHOOL COURSES SATISFY NEW REG EIGHT BOSUNS ACHIEVE TOP CERTIFICATION FOR BOSUN PARISI, SEAFARING IS A FAMILY AFFAIR WORKING THE BUSY CARIBBEAN RUN KEEPS S-L DISCOVERY CREW ON ALERT CREW EARNS PRAISE FOR WORK IN SHIPYARD ON THOMPSON PASS SEAFARERS MUST HAVE MMDS RENEWED BY 1999 GOP GAINS MAJORITY IN SENATE AND HOUSE EXPEDITED MARAS APPROVAL SOUGHT BY SEA-LAND TO REFLAG FIVE SHIPS HOUSTON STILL FEELS FLOOD’S AFTEREFFECTS LNG CREW BIDS FAREWELL TO RETIRING BOSUN WATERS STRIVING FOR EXCELLENCE ABOARD THE HARRIETTE EPA CERTIFICATION COURSES SCHEDULED FOR NEW YEAR MORE SEAFARERS COMPLETE REFRIGERATION TECH, EXAM SIU: FOREIGN SHIP CREW STANDARDS MUST BE STUDIED UNION URGES COAST GUARD TO ENACT RULES TO PROTECT OIL SPILL MARINERS ISRAELI SEA OFFICERS CONTINUE JOB ACTIONS MEMBERSHIP MEETINGS DATES SET FOR 1995 ON THE S-L EXPEDITION CREW MEETS FAST TURNAROUND PACE SIU CREWS NEW SULFUR CARRIER HISTORIC BALTIMORE TUG SAILS AGAIN RETIRED SEAFARERS HONORED FOR ROLE IN RESTORATION Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 12/01/1994 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 56, No. 12 1994 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/3fc7108c058904e91d1da1ca0bc324b3.PDF 1e7e1df5fc259b9a21c10d40508b8f14 PDF Text Text Clinton Commits to U.S. Ship Program In '95 Pages OFFtClAL ORGAN OF THE SEAFARERS INTERNATiONAL UNIOK • ATUNTIC GULF, iAKES AND INUND WATERS DiSTRia • AFKIO Volume 56, Number 11 November 1994 3 oat/j^-r* OOT>0.0 I-I HC3 c/) oi,-.r— a-< 2:.Tii/)>-<?o -lOCJ C/1C32</) ui -H;30 t/> '* >>J monis: om>'0 - 'k k. • • ii'•:. L.ik't^.. 1. t.,j Once again, U.S.-flag privately owned vessels responded to the nation's call to move military equipment and supplies to key trouble spots—Haiti and Kuwait, Here, trucks are rolled onto one of the many ships Involved. Pages 3,8. . •••••-'•-.•.-•-.ir �2 NOlfEMRER 1994 SEAFARERS LOG President's Report JUtA ami Keystone Si^ Pact In Strike Preceding Deal, SIU Aided Picketing Missed by a Hair; It's Not Over Yet Last month the Senate ended its session without passing the maritime bill the House had enacted back in August. The bill, which would have earmarked $1 billion for 56 ships over 10 years, got caught in the line of fire as senators maneuvered for positions they thought would appeal to voters. In this process, certain Republicans tried to prevent any bill that would have been a credit to the White House from passing. They used tac­ tics that ate up the clock, keeping several bills, including the legislation on a new maritime program, from being submitted to a full Senate debate and vote. Michael Sacco The irony of the situation is that the maritime bill enjoyed wide support among both Democratic and Republican senators. It had enough support to become law—in Congress and ultimately with President Clinton's sig­ nature. But the senators who were trying to move the bill ran out of time, and just by a hair, the legislation missed becoming the law of the land. That is why we have every reason to go forward. There is great support from members of Congress. The president has committed his administration to the goal of passing a program to revitalize U.S. shipping. And the iiidustry is battle-seasoned. We know the extent to which U.S.-flag shipping's enemies will go. (Remember that in late September, some farm-state senators relied on a rarely-used rule to block a committee from acting on the maritime bill.) Most importantly. Seafarers, their families, retired SIU mem­ bers and friends of the industry everywhere proved that U.S. shipping is an industry that concerns American voters. The thousands of communications to senators from these in­ dividuals drove home the point that Americans want a strong U.S.-flag shipping capability in times of war and national emer­ gency, as well as a fleet capable of ensuring a U.S. presence in the carriage of American imports and exports. The letters and phone calls that were received by senators indicated that a strong maritime industry provides employment and economic security to hundreds of thousands of Americans. The letter writing and phone calling of Seafarers and other Americans who support a U.S.-flag fleet was a wonderful exer­ cise in smart trade unionism. It demonstrated that SIU members and retirees understand the relationship between politics and the health of our industry. I am proud that so many of you took the time to be involved in the process. You proved ready for the task of urging support for the American merchant marine in 1994, and I know the union can count on you to continue to deliver the message to your elected officials in 1995. Volume 56. Number 11 November 1994 The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 0160-2047) is published monthly by the Seafarers Intemational Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District; AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Second-class postage paid at MSG Prince Geor­ ges, MD 20790-9998 and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Managing Editor, Daniel Duncan; Associate Editors, Jor­ dan Biscardo and Corrina Christensen Gutierrez; As­ sociate Editor/Production, Deborah A. Hirtes; Art, Bill Brower; Administrative Support, Jeanne Textor. Gloucester Honors WWII Seamen The city of Gloucester, Mass. recently dedicated a memorial to local merchant mariners who sailed during World War II. The memorial (pictured above) consists of a marble marker in front of an anchor from an unknown WWII merchant ship with the inscrip­ tion: "With thanks from the people of Gloucester to our sons who served as merchant mariners, 1941-1945." i'S.'iaWJsiTR arras The pact between the ARA and Keystone en­ After a six-week strike, the American Radio Association (ARA) announced on October 31 that sures a wage increase, guaranteed overtime and job a settlement had been reached with Keystone Ship­ security. ping Co. of Philadelphia. Leading up to the signing of the 6-year collective bargaining agreement between the ARA and Keys­ tone was a series of job actions by the radio operators. The ARA members were often joined by other maritime trade unionists in these events in a show of waterfront solidarity. SIU members in the Seattle area helped ARA members walk picket lines, and another Seafarer used his privately owned recreational craft as a picket boat at a grain dock in Tacoma, Wash. Ad­ ditionally, SlU-crewed tugs in Wilmington, Calif, refused to move a Keystone ship. In Tacoma, Seafarer Jim Fox, an AB, joined others manning picket boats which established positions between the Keystone-operated Chestnut Hill and the pier. "I was,more than happy to volun­ teer my boat," said Fox, 29. "Like the saying goes: 'An injury to one is an injury to all.' "Police and fire boats showed up and threatened to tow our boats. We had a lot of picketers on the beach, too, and I think we got our point across." "The SIU and many other maritime unions have been very supportive and we sincerely thank them," said ARA Secretary-Treasurer Bemie Stoller. QMED Chris Snow (center) and Chief Steward Knowing we have so much backing from the labor Manny Basas (right) join ARA member Rick Levancommunity helped us continue this fight for good- dowski in a picket against Keystone Shipping in Seattle. faith negotiations and a fair contract." Seafarers Back Israeli Brothers Members of the Seafarers In­ below inflation^ a ploy aimed at temational Union set up an infor­ forcing officers to quit, thereby mational picket line at die dock in opening the doors to the recruit­ Baltimore last month in support ment of cheaper, foreign labor. Zim Israel Navigation Co. is of the Israeli Sea Officers Union ISOU), which held a 12-hour one of the largest shipping com­ work action on the Zim-Miami to panies in the world, with the Is­ make the company aware of the raeli govenment and Israel ISOU's struggle to keep Israeli Corporation (owned by a multi­ seamen on Zim ships and to millionaire) as its major secure a fair contract. Some of shareholders. Zim's financial the ISOU members have been report shows a large profit from working without a contract for last year and the Israeli govern­ wo years—since December ment is planning to sell some of 1992—and believe the company its holdings in die company, in­ wants to eliminate the union al- dicating that Zini shares may well ogether. wind up on the New York Stock All officers on board the con- Exchange. ainer ship, owned by Zim Israel The ISOU seamen have Navigation Co., refrained from pledged to continue their fight for assisting in loading or unloading a fair contract. The Israeli ship he vessel from noon to midnight, officers also are working to keep including working the hatches Israeli seamen and the Israeli flag and other equipment necessary on Zim's fleet of ships. br cargo operations. "We have told our officers not ;o do anything that has to do with cargo work," said Capt. Efraim Marcovitz, who represents masters and chief engineers in the sraeli Sea Officers Union, in a statement to the press during the ob action. While conducting the infor­ mational picket at the entrance to he terminal where the ZintMlami was docked. Seafarers AB Sean Flaherty, who formerly passed out leaflets explaining The chalk-written note on the Zlm- sailed with the SIU of Canada some of the problems the officers Mlaml's sailing board says It all— before joining the SIU to sail deep sea, lends his support to the picket. are experiencing. "We can under­ V/L ON STRIKE. stand their cause for concern," said Bill Scott, a 25-year-old Sltf member who first shipped out on an SIU vessel during the Persian Crulf War. "They don't want their ships to go foreign flag, and we are here to support them in their ight for fairness." QMED Frank Coburn, an SIU member since 1986, said Solidarity, unity, that's what this is all about." 'Zim Lines is completely neglecting their duty to come to terms with us," said Capt. Mar­ covitz. "We see ourselves in a itter dispute that gets deeper and deeper by the day." Marcovitz lYalklng an informational picket line in support of the Israeli Sea claims the company has offered Officers Union are (from left) AB Ralph Broadway, SIU official Sal the officers pay increases far Aqula, AB Paul LaTorre and AB Gregory Peters. t : & �M0yEMBER1994 SEAFARERS LOG 3 Maritime Bill Stymied in Senate Clinton to Back U.S. Ship Biii in '95 After the Senate failed to act on a lO-year, $1 biljion dollar shipping bill last month before Congress adjourned, President Bill Clinton announced that the administration would work to ensure passage of maritime legislation in the upcoming year. Congress "must act to ensure that a fleet of U.S.-flag merchant ships, crewed by skilled American seafarers, stands ready to serve our country's economic and military sealift needs," the president said in a statement released October 19. "The ad­ ministration looks forward to working with the next Congress to enact legislation that achieves these important goals," con­ cluded the statement. It appears the maritime pro­ gram bill was a victim of stalling tactics by Republican senators A ft^r f-VlA CiSrkOl-A r^^t- ...U^ A1 1 _ _a 1 /» .« who in the last weeks of the ses­ move.) sion of the 103rd Congress sought The Republicans also worked to prevent the president from to prevent votes on bills backed achi V i.ig any kind of legislative by the administration that would victoiy. have reformed the way toxic waste dumps are cleaned and esCaught in the Crossfire tablished new mechanisms for From the outset. Republicans administering public lands in the began a campaign to obstruct West. legislation from being passed. With the Senate embroiled in One tactic, the filibuster, was non-productive fights over these often used by the Republicans. In matters and with many senators the last three weeks of the Senate anxious to return home to begin session. Senator Charles E. campaigning in earnest for the Grassley (R-Iowa) filibustered a November 8 elections, the Senate bill designed to reform the way in adjourned on October 8. which elections for public federal The House had adjourned the office are financed, a program day before and thus the 103rd that had been part of Clinton's Congress was effectively out of reform agenda. (A filibuster business. The new Congress, the prevents a bill from being con­ 104th, will take office in January. sidered by allowing senators to Facing that group of legislators make long speeches on any sub­ will be a re-introduced maritime ject. To break a filibuster, 60 program bill. senators must vote in favor of the (There will be a brief session Seafarers Hailed for Haiti Role Seamen Report Smooth Operations, Close Cooperation with U.S. Military SIU members last month were praised by the Maritime Ad­ ministration (MarAd) and by the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff for their roles in delivering Ready Reserve Force (RRF) ves­ sels ahead of schedule during the September break-out of the ships to support United States military operations in Haiti. Seafarers crewed eight of the 14 RRF ships which were ac­ tivated, and all were delivered ahead of their prescribed activa­ tion times. i . Seafarers also played a role in recent operations in the Persian Gulf See page 8. At press time, 11 of the vessels had returned from Haiti to the U.S. and had gone back to reduced operating status. Three others, including the Seafarerscrewed auxiliary crane ship Comhusker State, remained ac­ tive in the impoverished island nation, where thousands of U.S. troops still are stationed. 'Outstanding Performance' In a letter to SIU President Michael Sacco, Maritime Ad­ ministrator Albert J. Herberger commended Seafarers for their "extraordinary and dedicated effort in crewing the RRF ships that were activated for Operations Maintain Democracy/Uphold Democracy in Haiti. . . . These ships could not have achieved this outstanding level of performance without the expeditious and professional response that came from our volun­ teer U.S. civilian mariners." Herberger also noted that all of the ships were made fully opera­ tional far ahead of schedule. Besides the Comhusker State, SIU members also crewed the barge carrier Cape Mohican and the roll-on/roll-off ships Cape Lobos, Cape Taylor, Cape Texas, Cape Island, Cape Intrepid and Cape Inscription after the Depart­ ment of Defense activated them. The RRF is a fleet of ap­ proximately 1(X) tankers, dry cargo Statement by President Clinton •vi' The American maritime industry plays an important role in our nation's economy and security. Under Secretary Pena's leadership, we have made significant progress implementing a program that enhances the competitiveness of Ainerican shipyards in the international commercial market. But our work is not comp ete. Congress still must act to ensure a maritime presence in the United States' vast intemational trade. It must act to ensure that a fleet of U.S.-flag merchant ships, crewed by skilled American seafarers stands ready to serve our country's economic and military sealift needs. The administration looks forward to working with the next Congress to enact legislation that achieves these important goals, October 19,1994 The White House for the 103rd Congress after elec­ tion day, but it will be limited to a vote on the trade treaty known as the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade, or GATT.) Rule Ruse Added to Delay The maritime bill which was left unattended to by the Senate called for a $1 billion maritime program that would provide sup­ port for a U.S.-flag liner fleet and aid American shipyards over a ten year period. Funding for the pro­ gram would have been raised through the imposition of a ton­ nage duty levied on all vessels calling on U.S. ports. In the closing days of the Senate, momentum was increas­ ing to pass the maritime bill, which had been enacted by the House on August 2 by a vote of 294 to 122. In an effort to prevent the Senate from debating or voting on the legislation, three farm state senators used a par­ liamentary giimnick to delay the bill's progress. The technicality invoked by Senators Larry Pressler (R-S.D.), Grassley and Hank Brown (RColo.) prevented the bill from being reported out of the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee, when that panel met on Septem­ ber 23. The rarely used Senate Rule 26 raised by Pressler, Grassley and Brown states that committee meetings can only be held within a specific number of hours after the legislative body has been in recess unless all the senators on a committee agree that the panel can meet. Since the Senate was still in session on the day the com­ mittee was meeting, due to the filibuster by Grassley on cam­ paign financing, Pressler insisted Continued on page 6 Pro-Maritime Caniiiiiates Assisted by SiU Members Seafarers are walking precincts, posting signs, handing out leaflets and manning phone banks for candidates who support a strong U.S. shipping capability in anticipation of the November 8 The SlU-crewed Cape Intrepid leaves Beaumont, Texas for Haiti, general election. pushed by a Seafarer-crewed tugboat operated by Sabine Towing. Up for election are all 435 House seats and 35 of 100 Senate positions and a slew of state and local offices. Congressmen and senators who have worked hard for pas­ sage of a maritime program are up for re-election. Also, a number of candidates are seeking office for the first time who have pledged to back U.S. shipping. Seafarers have been cam­ paigning actively for these cham­ pions of both the U.S. merchant marine and the workers who earn Posting a sign outside the New their livelihoods on U.S. ships. Bedford, Mass. union hall is SIU Patrolman Eugenic de Sousa. . Volunteer Activity Deck department crewmembers aboard the Cape Texas in Mobile get that roll-on/roll-off vessel ready to sail to Haiti. They are, from left, ABs James Hardy, Howard Blanks and Jose Maisonet. ships and specialty vessels kept in layup by MarAd and operated by U.S.-flag shipping companies. The RRF activation began on September 8, as the U.S. prepared to launch an invasion against the Haitian military forces which in .t • .• 1991 violently overthrew democratically elected president Jean-Bertrand Aristide. But after some eleventh-hour negotiating between Haitian Continued on page 8 In addition to volunteering for various campaign tasks. Seafarers and their families are making plans to vote. Those who will be aboard ship on election day have made arrangements to vote by absentee ballot. Seafarers also have been voluntarily contributing to the Seafarers Political Activity Donation (SPAD) fund. SPAD funds are presented by the Seafarers to candidates who favor programs to ensure a vigorous U.S.-flag fleet of ocean-going. Great L^es and domestic water­ way vessels. Among the efforts of Seafarers are rallies for pro-maritime can­ didates. The SIU and the Michigan Maritime Trades Port ; • A' Council held a campaign rally at the Algonac union hall in which over200 pledged their support for gubernatorial candidate Howard Wolpe. Also, in Norfolk, Va. Seafarers showed support by handing out leaflets for Senate candidate Chuck Robb in front of the Berkley Avenue entrance to Norshipco shipyard. Seafarers together with the Maritime Port Council of South Florida rallied in support of Hugh Rodham, Democratic candidate for U.S. senator and brother of First Lady Hillary Rodham Clin­ ton. In New Bedford, Mass., union Continued on page 6 ' -1: �4 ' • • '»• .' •'. SEAFARERS LOG Senate Fails to Vetie On inland Safety Bill MOVEMRER1994 NMU, SIU Presidents Receive AOTOS Awards Host of Maritime Measures Left Unpassed; Issues Will Be Raised in Next Congress The Senate failed to act on comprehensive piece of maritime legislation which included steps to increase safety in the inland shipping sector. Enacted by the House of Rep resentatives, the bill also ap proved a budget for the U.S Coast Guard, streamlined Coast Guard regulations affecting U.S. flag shipping operations, created incentives for an American-flag cruise ship fleet and extender veterans benefits to World War I seamen who had previously been ruled ineligible, among other items. To Be Re-Introduced In reality, to obtain a Coast Guard-issued merchant mariner document, an individual must prove that they are drug-free and either a citizen or a foreigner who has lawful residence in the United States. The individual also must undergo a criminal record check with the FBI and a check of the National Driver Register for relevant information on alcohol abuse. Should a seaman be found to be a danger to himself or his shipmates or a threat to safe navigation, the Coast Guard can revoke the document. Threat of Senate Inaction to the Senate the evening of the 7th. On the Senate side, the bill was never considered. In the final hours of the Senate session, the only legislation being consideret were bills that could be brought to the floor without an objection by any senator. Last Minute Hold Louis Parlse (left), president of District 4-NMU/MEBA, and SIU president Michael Sacco were jointly honored by the United Seamen's Service at the Admiral of the Ocean Seas Award ceremony last month. After accepting the award presented by Congresswoman Helen Delich Bentley (R-Md.), Parise noted that the two unions enjoy "open lines of communication" that has benefitted members of both organizations. Sacco called on all maritime unionists to work for passage of a U.S. shipping promo­ tional bill in the next session of Congress. Sources on Capitol Hill indi­ cate that a senator hostile to American shipping objected to the comprehensive maritime bill being considered on the Senate floor. Such an action would have held up the bill and prevented it from being debated and voted on by the full Senate. Additionally, many bills that if passed would have been a credit The General Accounting Of­ to the Clinton administration fice issued a report last month to were being held up by Republican the chairman of the Senate Sub­ senators. This too may have con­ committee on Oversight of tributed to the lack of action by Government Management charg­ the Senate on the package of ing that lax administration by the maritime measures. Military Sealift Command (MSG) After it was apparent that the of its operating contract for nine Senate would not take up the bill, sealift tankers resulted in poorly SIU Executive Vice President maintained and unsafe ships. After receiving the GAO Joseph Sacco stated that inland safety and other promotional report. Senator Carl Levin (Dprograms for the American-flag Mich.), chairman of that subcom­ fleet would be high on the union's mittee, held an October 12 legislative agenda for the upcom­ hearing on the agency's findings. The sealift tankers have been ing year. "We intend to work operated by International Marine closely with all pro-maritime, (IMC) since May 1990 Carriers pro-safety elected officials to see under a five-year MSG contract. that an inland safety bill is Preliminary examination of passed." Rep. Tauzin argued that issu­ As a result of the bill not being ing documents to inland boatmen passed by the Senate, all elements would lead to increased "paper­ of the package of shipping-re­ work and bureaucracy" being im­ lated measures will have to be posed on the industry. He said at re-introduced in the next session least five senators opposed the of Congress, the 104th, which provision and thus if the House will begin in late January 1995. passed the bill with the document In the last days before the requirement, it would not be House adjourned on October 7 raised in the Senate. and the Senate adjourned on Oc­ In order for the legislative tober 8, the House attempted to package to achieve the unani­ spur the Senate into action on the mous support of the House, Conmaritime measures by passing a gressmaii Gerry E. Studds bill similar to the first com­ (D-Mass.), chairman of the Mer­ prehensive maritime package it chant Marine and Fisheries Com­ had enacted on September 22 in mittee, reluctantly agreed to the form of the Coast Guard having the mariner documenta­ Authorization Act of 1994 (H.R. tion provision removed from the 4422). That bill had languished in bill. The other issue concerning the Senate. offshore supply vessels also was dropped. Documents Not Included The bill then passed the House The new last-minute bill of the unanimously and was forwarded House, entitled Oceans Act of 1994 (H.R. 4852), was brought by the House Committee on Mer­ chant Marine and Fisheries to the floor of the House on the last day of its session, October 7. Beginning December 6, the reduce the number of RRF ships It was presented under a pro­ cedure which allows for a pack­ J.S. Maritime Administration available within five days of a age of legislation to receive [MarAd) will eliminate 16 ves­ mobilization notice to 32 from the unanimous consent in the House sels from the Ready Reserve current 57—calling into question and then be forwarded to the brce (RRF) and reduce 29 others America's papacity to quickly respond to a crisis. Overall, the Senate where it could be taken up to 30-day readiness status. The changes were announced RI^ will shrink from 105 ships to by the full Senate without first being submitted to lengthy com­ after the Senate Commerce Com­ 89. Additionally, none of the 32 mittee hearings and other proce­ mittee approved only $150 milion of a $250 million budget vessels to be maintained at maxi­ dures. Before this legislation was request from the administration mum readiness is a breakbulk adopted by unanimous consent by For maintaining the RRF. MarAd ship. the House, objections were raised ast year received $298 million Added to NDRF by two congressmen concerning or the reserve fleet. RRF vessels are used in times Ten breakbulk vessels and six two specific provisions. Con­ gressman W.J. "Billy" Tauzin (D- of surge shipping, such as the Per- tankers will be placed in the Na­ La.) opposed the requirement Aat sian Gulf War or the recent tional Defense Reserve Fleet inland boatmen hold merchant developments in Haiti. The ships (NDRF), an unmaintained, inac­ mariner documents, and another in the reserve fleet are owned by tive fleet whose 300-plus vessels member of the House questioned the government and operated by are anchored at ports in Texas, Virginia and on the West Coast. the definition of offshore supply jrivate shipping companies. Of the 29 ships being reduced For several reasons, the reor­ vessels in part of the bill. ganization is expected to have a to 30-day readiness, 27 are breakAdvances Safety minimal effect on the number of bulk vessels. Moreover, 12 vessels will be The requirement that inland shipboard jobs held by U.S. mer­ boatmen hold Coast Guard-is­ chant mariners. The 29 ships that kept at 10-day readiness and 16 sued documents, a measure will lose their maintenance con­ will be maintained at 20-day strongly backed by the SIU which tracts and shift to 30-day readi­ status. The budget shortfall leaves believes that such a provision en­ ness status had been maintained hances the safety of dl crewmem- ay reduced operating status unmet the recommendations of a bers as well as promoting safe ROS) crews. Additionally, under Department of Defense study on navigation, was opposed by an le RRF restructuring, 30 roll- U.S. sealift capability—called for association representing certain on/roll-off vessels (each with a by Congress in 1991—which tugboat companies. The crew of at least 10) will be main­ concluded that the RRF should be American Waterways Curators tained in the highest state of expanded. That study was or­ dered after most of the RRF ships had opposed the requirement, readiness. However, the cuts reportedly did not meet their activation claiming it was a clandestine ef­ fort to increase union member­ will eliminate hundreds of deadlines during the Persian Gulf shipyard jobs, and they also will War. ship among boatmen. RRF Drops to 89 Ships Impact on Shipboard Jobs Is Minimal I • • GAO Raports on Sealitt Tankers; Ikiion isPr^ikigA Response the report issued by the GAO, an investigative adjunct of the U.S. Congress, indicates a number of unsubstantiated statements con­ cerning crewmembers on the sealift tankers. The SIU is in the process of interviewing Seafarers who cur­ rently sail or have sailed on sealift tankers in preparation of a state­ ment refuting the GAO's allega­ tions about the seamen who work aboard these ships. The SIU's report will be sub­ mitted to the Government Over­ sight Subcommittee. Full details on the SIU's response to the GAO report will be forthcoming in the December issue of the Seafarers LOG. SiU-Crewed RRF Ships Vessel AMERICAN OSPREY CAPE WASHINGTON CAPE WRATH GOPHER STATE POTOMAC DIAMOND STATE CAPE INSCRIPTION CAPE INTREPID CAPE ISABEL CAPE ISLAND CAPE LAMBERT CAPELOBOS CAPE RACE CAPE RAY CAPE RISE CAPE TAYLOR CAPE TRINITY CAPE TEXAS COMET METEOR CAPE FAREWELL CAPE FLATTERY CAPE JACOB CAPEJOHNSON CAPE MAY CAPE MOHICAN CORNHUSKER STATE FUCKERTAIL STATE GEM STATE GRAND CANYON STATE CAPEBOVER CAPE BRETON CAPE FEAR CAPE FLORIDA CAPE GIBSON CAPE GIRARDEAU CAPEJOHN CAPEJUBY CAPE MENDOCINO CHESAPEAKE DIAMOND STATE EQUALITY STATE GREEN MOUNTAIN STATE KEYSTONESTATE MT. WASHINGTON PETERSBURG Type Tanker/OPDS RO/RO RO/RO T-ACS Tanker/OPDS RO/RO RO/RO RO/RO RO/RO RO/RO RO/RO RO/RO RO/RO RO/RO RO/RO RO/RO RO/RO RO/RO RO/RO RO/RO LASH LASH Breakbulk Breakbulk Seabee Seabee T-ACS T-ACS T-ACS T-ACS Breakbulk Breakbulk LASH LASH Breakbulk Breakbulk Breakbulk Breakbulk Seabee Tanker/OPDS T-ACS T-ACS T-ACS T-ACS Tanker/OPDS Tanker/OPDS Readiness Prepo Prepo Prepo Prepo Prepo ROS-4 ROS-4 ROS-4 ROS-4 ROS-4 ROS-4 ROS-4 ROS-4 ROS-4 ROS-4 ROS-4 ROS-4 ROS-4 ROS-4 ROS-4 10-day 10-day 10-day 10-day 10-day 10-day 10-day 10-day 10-day 10-day 20-day 20-day 20-day 20-day 20-day 20-day 20-day 20-day 20-day 20-day 20-day 20-day 20-day 20-day 20-day 20-day Operator Bay Ship AMSEA AMSEA lOM Bay Ship lOM APL APL APL APL AMSEA AMSEA' IMC IMC IMC Apex Apex Apex APL APL IMC IMC AMSEA AMSEA OMI OMI lOM lOM lOM IMC APL APL IMC IMC APL APL AMSEA AMSEA OMI Bay Ship lOM lOM IMC IMC Bay Ship Bay Ship RO/RO = Roll-on/Roll-off ship T-ACS = Auxiliary crane ship LASH = Barge-carrying ship Seabee = Barge-carrying ship Prepo = Prepositionea under military control ROS-4 = Reduced Operating Status with a four-day activation schedule. �HOymBER 1994 SEAFARERS LOG 5 Houston Flood Hits Seafarers • :• • W -r • • AP Photo by Pat Sullivan The effectiveness of oil booms is evident in this photo, taken in the San Jacinto River, upstream from the Houston Ship Channel in Houston. SlU-crewed oil response vessels and scores of other boats worked to keep the oil slick, which was broken by rushing floodwaters, from reaching Galveston Bay. if Electrician Jimmy Rogers has experienced four floods in five years, but this one was the worst, he said The photo above shows the water level almost reaching the apartment he set up above his garage (foreground) and the top of the main house off to the right. The flooding and pipeline ex­ tional Guard personnel also were of 1989, '90 and '92. "This one plosions which hammered areas called in to deliver clean water came up real fast and went down around Houston last month in­ and to prevent looting of real fast, but it was the worst" sait volved SIU members on several evacuated homes and stores. Rogers, a 36-year SIU member fronts: AP Photo by DavidJ. Phillip In all, the flooding causec who lives near Cold Spring • The homes of at least a dozen damage in 48 counties covering Texas, approximately 75 miles The oil spills on the river were due to at least five pipelines that ruptured. The pipelines were churned up by raging flood waters, then Seafarers sustained varying more than 250miles. from Houston. struck by debris. degrees of damage from the "I had 6 feet, 8 inches of water Rogers' Fourth Flood flooding. in my house This is the fourth • Seafarers aboard the oil-spill At press time, Houston Port time in five years, and a lot of cleanup vessels Texas Responder Agent Jim McGee and SIU Rep­ people aren't coming back. and Gulf Coast Responder spent resentative Don Anderson They're fed up." three days assisting in the spill reported that they still were in the Rogers had signed off a Searecovery efforts following major process of contacting active and Land ship in the port of Long pipeline ruptures on the San retired members in the area, in Beach, Cdif. and had driven most Towering flames rose above The flood waters in southeast Jacinto River (see separate story order to surmise whose residen­ of the way home when he saw Texas finally had begun receding the river, and in some places the ces are damaged and if anyone roads being closed. "I stopped at last month when another disaster fire burned for four days. on this page). • Although SlU-contracted needs assistance. "We checked a motel and watched TV and real­ struck the area. The pipelines, which ranged in towing companies reported no in­ on the pensioners first," said ized there was no way for me to On October 20, an estimated diameter from 36 to 40 inches, juries or vessel damage, publish­ Anderson. "Some of them live in get home. I finally went about 200 200,000 gallons of gasoline, apparently were excavated by ed reports estimate that the elevated areas that weren't miles out of my way, but even­ diesel fuel and crude oil were racing flood waters, then were closure of the Houston Ship damaged by the flood, but they tually I got home. I couldn't go spilled into the San Jacinto River, punctured when those waters Channel cost vessel owners mil­ were basically stuck there. I took inside the house for a few days, 17 miles east of downtown Hous­ slammed debris into them. lions of dollars. SlU-contracted a bass boat around and checked but I had set up an apartment ton, when three pipelines rup­ Swift Cleanup Higman Towing lost nearly on about 15 people. But it's an above my garage, and I just stay tured in a fiery explosion. ongoing process." (The SIU hall $1W,(X)0 while the channel was Both SlU-crewed responder The SlU-crewed Texas there when it flooids." closed, a company spokesman said. in Houston was not damaged.) Responder and Gulf Coast vessels assisted with cleanup ef­ He said that the respective Heavy rains began in Responder, vessels specifically forts in a closed section of the Costly Delay homes of QMED Floyd Acord southeast Texas on October 14 Between the flooding and the designed and equipped to react to Houston Ship Channel, where and lasted for four days. Accord­ and Recertified Steward Royce pipeline explosion, the 50-mile hazardous materids spills, were they worked in tandem. More than 1,000 people were ing to newspaper reports, at least Bozeman sustained major Houston Ship Channel—one of part of a virtual flotilla of cleanup 19 people, including a two- damage. The first floor of Cook the world's busiest waterways craft which quickly contained involved in the overall cleanup. "The beach cleanup is still month-old baby, died in flood-re­ Pat Caldwell's house was was closed for six days. Twenty- much of the spillage after it had flooded, and Caldwell also lost a going on and will be for a while, created a 20-mile slick. lated incidents. one ships were stuck in the port of Roughly 80,000 gallons were but Ae major parts on the water More than 12,000 people were car and a truck to the surging Houston; many more were out­ recovered, while an even greater were done witWn the first couple driven from their homes in an ap- waters. OMU Greg Brandani's side the channel, waiting to get in. amount burned itself off the water of days," said Conway. "There proximately 50-mile radius "We had several units nearby or evaporated. townhouse sustained some firstwere so many (cleanup) entities around Houston. Dozens of Red when the [explosion] happened: floor damage, as did the home of More than 100 people suffered out there at once, altogether we Cross shelters were opened in the Bosun Richard six barges and three boats," said minor injuries in the blast, but deployed over 30,000 feet of region, and five Federal Emer­ retired Mark Flynn of the operations there were no reported deaths. booms." Wardlaw. gency Management Agency department of Higman Towing. Several waterfront homes were For Electrician Jimmy The Texas Responder and the (FEMA) disaster assistance We had four days that those tows engulfed by fire, but all of the Gulf Coast Responder (which is Rogers, this flood was nothing centers were opened to handle claims from flood victims. Na­ new—^but it was worse than those were unable to do anything, at a residents already had left due to based in Lake Charles, La.) each cost of roughly $90,000. But the flooding. is equipped two deck cranes, two there was no personal injury or Seafarer Mike Conway, the stem-launched, 32-foot support vessel damage." mate aboard the Texas boats (which were used to help A spokesman for G&H Responder, which is based in tow booms during last month's Towing of Galveston said none of nearby Galveston, Texas, said cleanup), a stem-mounted skim­ the company's 28 tugs were that the reaction to the spill and mer and other gear including operating in the Houston area ire was both fast and efficient. booms, transfer pumps and protec­ during the rains or when the ex­ 'From the minute this thing tive clothing. Each can hold 4,000 plosion took place, "but we were [jroke, equipment and people ap­ barrels of recovered oil. "We worked (cleanup) for more affected by the flooding peared from every direction," he basically three days," added Con­ when the channel reopened. We said. "A lot of what we tried to way. "Now we just have to clean )ick up was burned gasoline or were real busy then." the hulls and the skimmer equip­ Other modes of travel also )umed oil, and that's not easy. ment." were affected by the flooding. An Some of it was mixed with grass, The Texas Responder and Gulf estimated 76 roads in 26 counties tires, trees, pieces of houses .... Coast Responder are part of a 16iVhen you get that junk hitting were closed, and a railroad bridge ship fleet operated by Dyn your booms, it's quite interesting. normally used by Amtrak's Sun­ Marine in behalf of the Marine "But with our boat crews, set Limited was knocked out by a Spill Response Corporation, a everything went smooth and all drifting houseboat. not-for-profit group created by the equipment worked fine." By early November, the flood According to newspaper major oil companies following waters were gone from the vast reports, fire officials described the passage of the Oil Pollution majority of the affected areas. the blaze as a flash fire—a quick- Act of 1990 (CPA '90). But it's going to be a while striking and extremely hot fire Crewmembers working jefore things get back to normal enerated by the large volume of aboard the vessels voted in Sep­ Standing In the entrance of his Houston home, Jimmy Rogers, with tember 1993 to join the SIU. his camera pointed across the hall, finds himself in waist-deep water. | in this area," concluded Rogers. gasoline floating on the water. Responder Boats Assist in San Jacinto Oii Spiii •• •/rry- " * �6 NOVEMBER 1994 SEAFARERS LOG Seafarers AM M Races of Pro-MariOme Candidates Continued from page 3 officials have distributed and posted signs throughout the city for Senator Edward Kennedy (D) who is up for re-election. In the port of Mobile, Ala., Seafarers recently participated in a phone bank which involved calling the homes of union mem­ bers residing in Southwest Alabama, asking them to support a number of candidates for local and state offices. The SIU's legislative depart­ ment tracks the voting records of elected officials on matters of special interest to Seafarers and the shipping industry. The union's support of candidates is based on their commitment to promoting cargo for U.S.-flag vessels and developing an American-flag revitalization pro­ gram. Showing support for pro-maritime Virginia candidates are (from ieft) AB Dan Hughes, QMED Robert Katterheindrich, AB Kenny Smith, QMED Kevin Quinlan and retired Recertified Bosun Bill Dawson. UNION SUPPOBtS -yr- r\ij jj. n Campaigning for Democratic candidate Hugh Rodham for U.S. senator in South Florida are, from left, AB Regina Ewing, AMO member Keith Craig and AB Douglas Heller. After a get-out-the-vote rally at the SlU Algonac hall, attended by more than 200 union memt>ers, VP Great Lakes Byron Kelley (left) takes a photo with Margaret Watson, mayor of River Rouge, Mich, (center) and Howard Wolpe, Democratic candidate for govemor. Maritime Briefs President Signs New Law On Stowaway Controversy In behalf of Senator Edward Ken­ nedy of Massachusetts, who faces a tough re-election. Seafarers from the New Bedford SlU hall are placing signs in their yards and public sites around the area. Above, SlU Port Agent SA Corinthius Thomas calls prospective voters from a Mobile, Ala. Henri Francois displays one of the campaign signs. campaign office in behalf of local and state candidates. Clinton to Support '95 Ship Bill Continued from page 3 the committee could not meet. When the bill could not be reported out of committee as a result of the farm-state senators' ploy, that left pro-maritime senators looking for other ways in which to bring the legislation to the floor. But with only two weeks in the session left and with the Senate bogged down by the Republicans' efi^orts to block all legislation of interest to the presi­ dent, backers of the maritime bill were unable to get the bill to the floor of the Senate. Planning for 1995 Immediately after Congress adjourned, backers of a strong U.S. shipping capability vowed to press for enactment of legisla­ tion in the early days of the next congressional session. fii a letter to President Clinton sent in mid-October, SlU Presi­ dent Michael Sacco and the heads of the other unions with sea­ going members, said, "We are to­ tally committed to the enactment of maritime revitalization legisla­ tion early in the 104th Congress." "We cannot and must not allow those who oppose American shipping to succeed in their goal to eliminate the United States flag from the high seas. If the U.S.-flag fleet is eliminated, the carriage of America's foreign trade will be placed totally at the mercy of foreign shipping inter­ ests—often linked directly to foreign companies that compete head-to-head-with our own ex­ ports—and thousands of highly- skilled American maritime jobs will be sent overseas as well," the union presidents noted. Signed by District No. 1Marine Engineers Beneficial As­ sociation President Joel Bem, International Organization of Masters Mates & Pilots President Timothy A. Brown, American Maritime Officers President Michael McKay, District No. 4NMU/MEBA President Louis Parise and Sacco, the letter thanked the president for his past support of U.S. shipping and noted the "tireless efforts of Transportation secretary Federico Pena, Maritime Ad­ ministrator Admiral A. Herberger and their staffs" that hel^ make significant progress in developing a new national maritime program. Former Head of Moran Towing Dies at 69 Thomas Moran, former president, chief executive of­ ficer and chairman of Moran Towing Corp., died in his sleep at his home in Darien, Conn, on September 26. He was 69. The fourth family member to head the company, Moran's Thomas Moran 32-year reign transformed the once small harbor towing and vessel docking busi­ ness, founded by his grandfather in 1860, into a diversified marine transportation company. Bom in Brooklyn, N.Y. in 1925, Moran sailed as a merchant mariner from 1943 to 1945. After signing off his last ship, Moran began working with Marine Transport Lines in New York, where he eventually became vice president of operations. Moran began his career with Moran Towing in 1962. The company has a fleet of 53 tugboats and 12 barges which operate in Philadelphia; Hampton Roads, Va.; Jacksonville and Miami, Fla.; Port Arthur, Texas; and Portsmouth, N.H. A new immigration law that relieves carriers of the responsibility of detaining stowaways was signed by President Clinton last month. The new Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) law frees carriers of the responsibility of detaining stowaways for long periods while their asylum cases are decided. According to The Journal of Commerce, the INS has taken cus­ tody of all asylum-seeking stowaways since August 1 as a result of a ruling on the issue by the U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. The old INS policy required carriers to provide detention for stowaways and fined them for any escapes that occurred. J, Investigators Reveal Faulty Door in Ferry Sinking Investigation into the sinking of the ferry Estonia on September 28 has revealed that the locks on the huge front cargo door failed during a violent storm, letting in a flood of water from the Baltic Sea. It was this rush of water into the vehicle deck that apparently led to the capsizing and sinking of the ferry off the coast of Finland, resulting in the deaths of 900 persons. This conclusion was reached by a team of investigators, based on more than 15 hours of videotape taken underwater of the wrecked vessel by remote controlled cameras. According to an article in The Washington Post, investigators • issued a statement revealing the videotape showed the huge hinged door used for loading vehicles onto the ferry "fully separated Irom the rest of the vessel." The videotape helped confirm reports that the door had leaked or broken off the ship. The door, which operated in much the same way as a garage door, was detached from the ferry when the locks failed. The bow door is supposed to be watertight, but investigators revealed it had been partly dislodged, leaving a gap of about three feet along the top edge that allowed water to rush into the car deck. The Washington Post quoted one investigator as stating that the evidence "points to the fact that there was something wrong with the doors before the ship left harbor." Great Lakes Seafarers Overcome Icy Delay According to the Great Lakes Carrier Association, an organization which monitors the action of U.S.-flag shipping on the Great Lakes, a record-breaking August and a large increase in September loadings have enabled Great Lakes vessels to finally offset the significant ice delays encountered in March and April and pull ahead of last year's cargo carriage pace. As of September 30, shipments of various dry and liquid bulk cargoes aboard U.S.-flag bottoms totaled 74.8 million tons, an increase of roughly 1(W,000 tons compared to the same time last year. The association notes that while the increase may seem small, at the end of April, U.S.-flag carriage was more than 2.5 million tons behind schedule. The heavy ice formations that covered the Lakes in March and well into April cost U.S.-flag ships the equivalent of 133 steaming days. To offset the lost sailing days, U.S.-flag carriers have utilized virtually every serviceable ship on the Lakes this season. �I myEHBBR 1994 V* ^ , ' » '• '•«-«' •>*<•- SEAFAREBS lOG ' • I 7 Paul Hall Center Introduces Tanker Safety Glass The Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education last month conducted an exten­ sively detailed, hands-on Tanker Operation/Safety pilot course which soon will become a regular part of the Lundeberg School's curriculum. Six Seafarers and four mem­ bers of the American Maritime Officers (AMD) early this month completed the two-week pilot course, which included plenty of feedback, suggestions and a writ­ ten critique from the students. Their input will be used to help refine and possibly expand the course before it is added to the regular upgrading schedule. The SIU developed the course in response to the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (OPA '90). That legislation is intended to keep the nation's waters free of marine oil spills. In its commitment to comply with all U.S. Coast Guard proce­ dures and practices, the SIU responded to the OPA mandate by including the issue of training in its three-year standard freightship and tanker contract (covering the period of June 16, 1993 to June 15, 1996) and by establishing the Tanker Opera­ tion/Safety course. 'Essential Course' "This is an important course, an essential course, and I'll be sure to pass the information I've learned on to my fellow menibers aboard ship," said Bosun Milton Caballero, 36, one of six SIU members who took the pilot class along with four members of the American Maritime Officers (AMD). "The course really helped me," stated Bosun Hugo Dermody, 45. "I learned a lot about safety inside tanks, what chemi­ cals to be cautious of, and how and why they are hazardous." Added Pumpman Tom Koubek, an 18-year SIU mem­ ber: "I've learned a lot of new things about handling certain hazardous cargoes, how to use respirators and other emergency equipment. These are all very im­ portant." Koubek and his classmates agreed that a large volume of material was covered by instruc­ tors Byran Cummings and Jake Karaczynski. Students were introduced to the chemical and physical proper­ ties of petroleum products, flammability characteristics, toxicity/asphyxiation charac­ teristics and health hazards as­ sociated with exposure to petroleum products. They reviewed how to correct­ ly monitor tanks for oxygen deficiency and take other meter readings with atmospheric monitoring equipment. Other topics and exercises in­ cluded: • Creating site-specific ship­ board safety plans. • Reviewing final rules on ben­ zene products. • Troubleshooting and basic maintenance of monitoring gear. • Extensive confined-space safety training and rescue opera­ tions aboard the Empress II, the Lundeberg School's modern training barge. • Fit-tests using respirators and other breathing apparatus and emergency equipment. • An introduction to fire chemistry and other aspects of firefighting, including fire hazard awareness and identification; fire prevention via vapor control; fire prevention via ignition source control; fire extinguishing equip­ ment; fire fighting techniques and fire/emergency duties. • Tanker construction and safety Other areas of study included different types of oils, medical surveillance, vessel oil pollution prevention, national pollution contingency plans, water pollu­ tion, water program requirements and removal of oil and other haz­ ardous substances. Students also covered regional oil removal contingency plans; rules for protecting the marine en­ vironment; vessel pollution prevention equipment design and approval requirements; site safety, organization and coor­ dination and more. Seafarers who completed the course were Koubek, Dermody, Instructor Byran Cummings Caballero, Ferdinand Gongora, answers a student's question and Marian Kabat. James Ellis about a protective mask. Sahi's Scrumptious Feast Completing the pilot course for Tanker Operation/Safety are (from left, kneeling) AMO mernbers Luis Charlin and Casey Boga and Seafarers Hugo Dormody and Milton Caballero, (back row) SIU members James Ellis and Marian Kabat, AMO member Ernie Richardson, Seafarers Ferdinand Gpngora and Tom Koubek, AMO member Ray Dwyer and instructor Byran Cummings. As part of the hands-on Tanker Operation/Safety course. Instructor Byran Cummings (right) reviews some of the health hazards associated with petroleum products. Seafarers and AMO members review the proper fit and functions of breathing apparatus Thi«e Courses That Lead To a USCG Radar Endorsement Available to Houston Area Seafarers A four-hour radar course, sponsored by the Lun­ deberg School in Piney Point, Md., will be held for all Seafarers who do not currently have their radar endor­ sement. Three dates have been scheduled so far. The first class will be held Tuesday, November 29 at the SIU hall in Houston. It will last from 8 a.m. until ion. noon. The second will take place on Wednesday, November 30 at the Ramada Inn in Port Arthur. Class hours are the same—^from 8 a.m. until noon. Additionally, on Thursday, December 1, the thM radar mini-course will be held, also at the SIU hall in Houston, and also from 8 a.m. until noon. For additional information, contact the Houston hail ^(713)659-5152. •arf.-. ; - y •' �8 ROVEMBER1994 SEAFARERS LOG Seafarers Aid Gulf Buildup Iraqi Troops Back Off as U.S. Reenters Gulf life Hurley added that the entire Seafarers transported U.S. evoked memories of Operations military personnel and materiel Desert Shield/Desert Storm, crew "did a really good job. All of to the Persian Gulf last month as which began in late 1990 anc the ABs were terrific, and the America responded to a buildup ended in early '91 as the U.S. steward and engine departments We had to put of elite Iraqi troops near Kuwait. armed forces liberated Kuwait also were great The U.S. Military Sealift from Iraqi President Saddam in a lot of extra hours loading Command (MSG) in early Oc­ Hussein's invasive military for­ stores, carrying them and things like that. We also topped off our tober directed 19 Afloat ces. But they added that last fuel.... I have six men in the deck Prepositioning Force ships, includ­ ing eight from the Ready Reserve month's operations were com­ department, and they haven't Force (RRF)^ to sail in support of paratively safer and on a much missed an hourof [work] since we Operation Southern Watch. SIU smaller scale than the Persian were called." Ghief Mate John Denton, an members crewed 11 of those ves­ Gulf War, during which more sels, some of which off-loaded in than 200 U.S.-flag ships directed SIU hawsepiper, offered similar A1 Jabal, Saudi Arabia. by MSG carried 15 million tons of praise for the crew and noted the But the threat of a confronta­ cargo and fuel to and from the cooperative nature of both the civilian crew and the military pas­ tion with Iraq quickly receded, Middle East. sengers. "It was a big effort to do and by mid-October the U.S. had Prepare for the Worst the job, but we got it done—any­ capped its military buildup in the "Back in '91, no one knew thing that the Marines needed," region and canceled plans for fur­ ther mobilizations as the Iraqi where we were going or how far," he said. "The deck gang is well tenance," he added. "My impres­ troops withdrew from the border. Bosun Michael Hurley said from above average, and with 75 extra sion is that everyone performed Approximately 13,000 U.S. the bridge of the PVT Franklin J. people on board, the steward with character." ground troops and 2,000 Marines Phillips. "This time, we weren't department was tasked pretty SlU-crewed ships which were on board a group of Navy ships will too concerned about getting hit. hard." involved in Operation Southern "But we reviewed how to use remain in the Gulf for several more Watch included the roll-on/rollHigh Morale weeks, during which time they will all the protective clothing and gas off vessels Cape Washington, Aboard the PFCJames Ander­ American Kestrel, JEB Stuart and conduct military exercises. At masks and everything, just in press time, the Seafarers-crewed case. We were prepared for any­ son, Bosun James Keith Jr. said Cape Wrath-, the crane ship that "morale was high" during Gopher State-, the Maritime prepositioning ship Cpl. Louis J. thing." Like many of the other last month's operations. "We Prepositioning Squadron vessels Hauge Jr. also was involved in drills in the Gulf. The other prepositioning ships, which were on full alert, and at first we Anderson, Phillips, Hauge, 1st LT prepositioning vessels had dis­ remain fully operational and thought the situation might turn AlexBonnyman and PFC William pell to Diego Garcia and near loaded with cargo throughout the into another Desert Storm," he Baughr, and the heavy lift/sub­ year, the Phillips did not off-load said. "But we were ready — mersible Amencon Cormorant. Saipan in the Western Pacific. everyone stuck together and did a More than 150,000 U.S. its equipment. "We were prepared for a major goodjob. ground troops had been on alert, Action Backfires "We got the cargo holds ready but the alert was canceled on Oc­ download, but when we got to the Some news analysts in the Persian Gulf,the threat had become for download and also got the U.S. have suggested that Hussein tober 20. SIU members said that Opera­ minimal," noted Mike Michaelson, deck gear ready. We greased the ordered his troops to move cranes and did all-around main­ toward Kuwait's northern border tion Southern Watch naturally captain of the Phillips. in the hope that the United Na­ tions would lift trade sanctions currently enforced against Iraq, including one that prevents ex­ porting of Iraqi oil. Officikls in Baghdad may have believed that the troop movements would draw attention to the country's economic hardships. They also may have schemed to withdraw the troops and then formally recognize Kuwait's integrity and borders, again hoping that the U.N. in turn would lift or ease the sanc­ tions. Instead the move backfired, as the international community con­ demned Iraq's actions and sup­ ported the American mihtaiy's response. SIU Crews 8 ilfff Sft/jis BoumI Ibr HalU fljparathms Continued from page 3 military rulers and a group of American diplomats, the invasion was changed to a peacekeeping mission as the military officials agreed to reinstate Aristide. That transfer of power took place last month. The RRF ships still carried the same cargo as was planned for the invasion, however, including trucks, ammunition, medical equipment, communications gear, barges, portable pier sys­ tems and more. They also transported military personnel. Seafarers who took part in Operations Restore/Maintain Democracy reported smooth operations and excellent coopera­ tion between the civilian crews and the military. SIU members also expressed strong support for America's mission in Haiti. Aboard the Cape Mohican, which sailed from Norfolk, Va., Seafarers in the steward depart­ ment prepared more than 4,000 extra meals for members of the Army and Navy. "We carried an emergency portable pier system, and we had about 200 milit^ personnel on board," said Ghief Steward Bud Marchman. "I was informed that the mihtary was going to use their MREs (Meals Ready to Eat), but the captain and all of us felt very bad about that. MREs will sustain life, but they get old very quickly! "With the captain's permis­ sion, Ghief Gook IVforjorie Mack and I prepared extra food at each meal for the military, who provided mess cooks. They were overwhelmed with the kindness and really enjoyed the food. We felt good about it, too, because these are our troops. \^en you get a chance to do something for your country, you do it." Andrew Mack, the bosun aboard the Mohican, compli­ mented the galley gang for a "fan­ tastic job" and stated the entire The CapeIsland was one of eight RRF ships crewed by Seafarers to support military operations in Haiti. crew performed in a thoroughly efficient and professional man­ ner. "It was a successful trip, and anything we could do for our military, we were glad to do." AB Howard Blanks sailed aboard the Cape Texas, which crewed up in Mobile, Ala. and then loaded cargo in Norfolk and in Wilmington, N.G. before making the four-day voyage to Haiti. He said that off-loading in Port-au-Prince took slightly less than two days. "Everything went well and everyone on this ship did their job," stated Blanks. "Nobody was worried, and we discussed the U.S. presence in Haiti and agreed that it was definitely the right thing to do." Blanks added that during his brief time ashore, "The Haitian people were happy to s6e us and they treated us with a lot of respect. I was cautious, but they were glad we were over there." AB Charles Simmons used an 80-ton elevator aboard the Ready to do their part in the break-out of ships bound for Haiti are Cape Taylor to move cargo from OMU Van Cowart (left) and DEU Carl Turner on board the Cape Texas deck to deck, and he declared that the upgrading courses he has as it crewed up in Mobile. taken at the Paul Hall Center proved particularly useful during these operations. "We went to Bayoime, N.J., for cargo and the loading took 24 hours," he recalled. "Once we got to Haiti, we unloaded in 17 hours, and we headed back to Mobile immedi­ ately after the discharge." Simmons said the Taylor's crew saw thousands of Haitians lining the shores. "Those people are hungry and they had no form of government. They need our help badly, and I think the United States (military) certainly should be there. "I'm jt^t sorry it was such a short cruise—18 days, start to finish—^because we want to help." Haiti on September 19. Thousands more troops followed as the U.S. facilitated Haiti's return to democratic rule. 'Sterling Support' General John Shalikashvili, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, described the U.S. mer­ chant marine's role in Haiti as "sterling support to our great na­ tion" and noted the "flawless, timely response" of everyone in­ volved in the RRF activation. More than 2,000 U.S. troops landed without resistance on AB Kennard Campbell (left) and Bosun Millard Napier took part in Operations Restore/Maintain Democracy as crewmembers aboard the Cape Texas. �• '• ' -• -'•* •' / • ../;fe'- '• ". '-'p. " NOIfEMBER 1994 SEAFMERSLOG ^ KaK Cento-Adds Haw Vessel To Seheel's Hands-^m TTaHi^ Fleet The Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education recently added a second 80-foot former U.S. Navy boat to its fleei of training vessels at Piney Point, Md. The vessel will provide upgraders with an expanded op­ portunity for hands-on training in radar, navigation and shiphandling, as well as other seamanship skills. "Since she was operational channel surveys and mine detec­ until just a few weeks ago, it will tion duties. be easy to convert her for our The Lundeberg School pre­ training needs," noted instructor viously acquired a similar boat in Bill Hellwege, who was joined by the spring of 1992 from the Naval fellow instructors Jim Brown and Air Warfare Center in Patuxent Tommy Swann and Lundeberg River, Md. After its arrival at School Waterways Advisor Bill Piney Point, Lundeberg School The yet-to-be-named wooden vessel will provide upgraders with an Saul in transporting the boat from personnel removed all the excess expanded opportunity for hands-on training. the U.S. Coast Guard training base and obsolete Navy gear, worked in Cape May, NJ. to Piney Point. on the engines and updated the The yet-to-be-named craft is navigation equipment. The craft of wooden construction with an also was painted white (over her aluminum deck house and has a original gray) and named displacement of 70 tons. The Securer. main engines are two twin-pack In addition to its regular func­ GM 671 diesels with twin shafts tions as a training boat, the producing 660 hp, for a top speed 5ea/arer assisted, earlier this of 13.5 knots. year, in the towing of another Among the boat's equipment piece of marine equipment to be is radar, a fathometer, gyro com­ used for training, the Empress II, pass, UHF and VHP radio and a state-of-the-art barge formerly more. used by the U.S. government for This class of vessel formerly electromagnetic testing. was used for instruction in The Seafarer, the Empress II seamanship, navigation and en­ and the newer boat were acquired gineering at the U.S. Naval via the U.S. Defense Regional Academy in Annapolis, Md. and Material Office based in Virginia, at the Naval Officer Candidate under terms of the Merchant School in Newport, R.I. The ves­ Marine Act of 1936, as amended Because the craft was being operated almost until the Lundeberg sels also were assigned as harbor in 1980. That law reads in part School acquired it, instructor Bill Hellwege believes it will not take too defense craft, and would have that "excess or surplus vessels, much effort to convert her for the school's training needs. provided, in time of war, a mine shipboard equipment and other countermeasure force in and marine equipment, owned by the charter to the Federal and state which has been jointly approved The new training boat is equipped around U.S. harbors. Additional­ United States, may be made avail­ maritime academies and to any by the (Maritime) Administration with radar that will be utilized by upgaders at the Paul Hall Center. ly, they were used for shipping able by gift, loan, sale, lease or nonprofit training institution and the U.S. Coast Guard...." Two Additional Sill Hails to Host Refrigeration Classes November 14 Is Deadline for Obtaining EPA Certification The refrigeration technician which mandates it. That regula­ Anyone may take the exam an card (which has no expiration) for all QMED, electrician, certification course conducted by tion stems from the Clean Air Act unlimited number of times,so dif- and a certificate. refrigeration and junior engineer the Lundeberg School of the Paul Amendments of 1990. ferent certifications may be According to a recent action jobs. The first day of the course earned separately. Hall Center for Maritime Train­ by the Seafarers Appeals Board SIU members who are on a begins at 8 a.m. and lasts until 4 Results will be mailed to (SAB), after November 14,1994, ship during the November 14 ing and Education is available to p.m. Topics covered include Seafarers no more than a month Seafarers who have passed the deadline are asked by the union to Seafarers this month at the SIU halls in San Juan, P.R. and in Al- refrigerants and compressor after they take the exam. Those certified refrigeration technician obtain certification as soon as gonac, Mich. The two-day class lubricating oils, refrigerant han­ who pass one or more sections of exam will be given priority within possible after they sign off the dso is scheduled this month for dling safety procedures, how the test will receive a certification their respective seniority classes vessel. refiigerants affect the environment the Paul Hall Center. Additional classes are slated and dieories of refrigeration. Day two also starts at 8 a.m. for early 1995 at the SIU halls in Jacksonville, Fla., Wilmington, and lasts until 2 p.m., followed by Seafarers who took the Paul the exam. Some of the subjects Calif, and Brooklyn, N.Y. The Lundeberg School has covered are refrigeration servic­ Hall Center's two-day refrigera­ been offering the class—^which is ing, handling small appliances tion technician certification approved by the Environmental and working with high- and low- course at SIU halls in San Fran­ cisco, Seattle, Honolulu and detection Agent^ (EPA)—at SIU pressure equipment. The instractor conducts test­ Wilmington, Calif, last month halls across die coimtry since July. It also is available as part of engine ing following the second day of found Aat thorough prepara­ tion combined with Ae classwork department upgrading courses at class, from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. The exam is divided into four made passage of the exam more the Lundeberg School and is being offered occasionally as a separate parts, and there are corresponding likely. Like many other SIU members certification types. Most Seafarers course at Piney Point A four-part, lOO-question who handle refrigerants will need who took the course earlier this EPA exam is administer^ imme­ at least what are known as Type I year, those who took it on the diately after the class. Passing this and Type II certifications, since West Coast and in Hawaii ad­ test will result in Seafarers earn­ galley equipment is covered vised fellow members that study­ ing EPA certification that is re­ under Type I, and ships' stores sys­ ing the course textbook in quired for anyone involved in tems are covCTed under Type n. advance is a major boon when it Seafarers at the SIU hall in Seattle take notes on theories of refrigera­ The SIU encourages all comes time to t^e the lOO-ques- tion during the two-day refrigeration technician certification course. repair and servicing of refrigera­ QMEDs to test for what is called tion Environmental Protection tion equipment and air condition­ Universal certification. In par­ Agency exam inunediately fol­ Cisco and also passed all four when signing up for the class. ing systems. parts of the test. "It's a good They should &en send a check for ticular, Seafarers who work lowing the course. November 14 is the deadline "There's so much information course and the instructor is first- $25, made payable to the "Paul aboard cruise ships should seek for obtaining certification, ac­ to cover in a relatively short time, rate," he said. "I got the book in Hall Center," to: EPA Refrigera­ Universal certification. cording to llie EPA regulation you better show up ready to advance and it re^y helped. The tion Tech. Course, Paul Hall Cen­ learn," said Electrician Gilbert diagrams are excellent, the in­ ter for Maritime Training and REFRIGERATION TECHNICIAN COURSE SCHEDULE Millsap, 61, who passed all four structions are very specific and Education, P.O. Box 75, Piney 1994 sections of the exam at the Seattle I'll be able to refer to it in the Point, Md. 20674, Attn: J.C. LOCATION DATE hall. "I had the book 'Refrigerants future." DAY Weigman. The book will be sent San Juan, P.R. and the Environment' a week Nov. 16-17 OMU Mark Lawrence, who by first class mail. (Be sure to Wed.-Thu. San Juan, P.R. Nov. 18-19 before the class, and it served me took the class in Honolulu, and indicate an address where the Fri.-Sat. Algonac, Mich. Nov. 29-30 Tue.-Wed. well." QMED Steve Byerly (Wil­ book should be sent.) Piney Point, Md. Nov. 21-22 Mon.-Tue. The 40-year SIU member mington) separately gave identi­ The Lundeberg School also is 199S added that he appreciated the Paul cal summaries of the necessity for trying tomake the book available LOCATION DATE Hall Center bringing the course to studious preparation: "Getting for purchase directly from the DAY Jacksonville, Fla. SIU halls throughout the country. the 'oook in advance is a must!" ports where the courses are Jan. 9-13 *Mon.-Frl. Wilmington, Calif. "We owe a vote of thanks to the they each stated. Feb. 13-17 scheduled. Check with the in­ •Mon.-Frl. Brooklyn, N.Y. Mar. 13-17 •Mon.-Fri. union for putting this on." Seafarers who want to buy the dividual port agents to find out if •Five-day blocKs o? time nave ueen sei aarew loi uiooo wuiwo iw ac­ QMED/Electrician Sonny book should indicate this to the the book is available in advance commodate all who apply and those who want to retest. Each course, Acosta took theclass in San Fran- port agent whom they contact at a particular hall. Seafanrs Stress Class Preparation however, will take place over the regular two-day period. 9 �••;-: i 10 •••••• ••. M0VEMRER19S4 SEAFARERS LOG AB John Sokolik works hard to keep the W/Zkes'decks white. OS Glenn King reports to the deck, ready to begin long hours of chip­ ping and painting. •'f, r'' ' Operating the air compressor which feeds seismic research equipment is QMED Greg Jones. A • • '•' "Keeping up the appearance of a white ship is no easy task," notes Frederick K. Smallwood,the first mate of the USNS Wilkes. But that doesn't stop the deck crew of the oceanographic survey ship from "making a difficult job look easy," Smallwood adds in his September 14 communication to the Seafarers LOG. Smallwood (who also provided the photos for this article) reported to the Seafarers LOG that there is always a lot of work to be done aboard the USNS Wilkes. "The work is very interesting, and the scientists on board always have a few minutes to explain what they are doing with various experiments," he noted in his letter. "While the ship's mission is centered around oceanographic operations, there is always day-to-day work that must go on," the chief mate added. Keeping with the regulations of an oceanographic research vessel, the USNS Wilkes must be painted radiant white at all times. This makes deck maintenance for the crew, led by Bosun Bill Richardson, a constant challenge. Chipping and painting must be worked out with over-the-side operations, and the crew often works long hours. In September, the USNS Wilkes was reunited with an oceanographic seafloor survey system sled which it previously had brought up from 17,000 feet of water off of the south coast of Hawaii in May 1993. The sled had been refurbished and is now being operated by the USNS Wilkes in the Sea of Japan through the end of October. W^ile at sea, the vessel encountered two typhoons—^Ellie and Fred. According to Smallwood, Ellie passed close enough to the ship's operating area that evasive action was required. The USNS Wilkes rode out the storm at a buoy in the harbor at Sasebo, Japan. The 287-foot USNS Wilkes has been operated by Bay Ship Management for the Military Sealift Command (MSC). Earlier this year, however, the MSC awarded a five-year operating contract for the vessel and others of its class to Dyn Marine Inc. That company's operation of the f/SZVS Wi/kej began October 29. Dyn Marine is operating the USNS Wilkes and the other vessels under MSC's contract with non-union vessels in organizational status. OS Darrayl Marshall applies white paint to the stem bulwark. • ."-"v - •' '• "H-v. Purser Vicky Holloway (left) and Cook/Baker Carmelita Henry meet outside the purser's office to go over the day's menu. - J-! Preparing to take a bot­ tom sample Is Bosun Bill Richardson. Bosun Bill Richardson (right) and OS George Galanis mix palnL �NOVEMBER 1994 SEAfARBISLOQ 11 "T^r. (Utet "TKIA. 1^6cA<XKi 'i^(%ltc<^ u^e tKorried 2L t9'?4 or PrcHce 'prederccA. TKcC. ^CcA^rd 64. X cAie^ engineer untA (^Kyudetf. 6(t S<t*t Pu<x*t, P.^.; ^euyuHtf 64- e<4t^U4efed. tvcCA (Ate Se<t^<xrer4 Pt<ut 6M, P6Metf P<y6*it, /4^ter cuitA. (Ac S'TZC ttuyie CA^xa. 40 cfe<vt^, ^xul 0(^<Ua4. Sr. retcxecC CoAt S>ece*HAcr. 't^e euui AIA cvi^ 44 cfe<vi4., (^taxiefA (i*t frA^Uo<x6Ave} ttuiAe tAcOi AMIC i*t /trrMfo., 'Pccerto^ IRcca. 1R<t«6 Ac tHiAAe^ '?H-ci. Another peek into the Seafarers LOG family album shows us some happy moments in the lives of SlU members, in­ cluding two weddings, a fishing trip and families getting together. As always, the LOG welcomes photographs from Seafarers and their families and will publish them on a periodic basis. <xtl tAe eicttiUtceA eit 2!7KSS> p6*K "OddiAUui PiUffie recettdcf Mctzrried (Ae ^4r*Her, (patHero^, uxAfX Atx6l4 ^rtuft PltxMdurxA. '/^fuxcwt A64, ^ieer4 ^r A64, ieleedaxM (x^ <xut-<x^-(Ae-<xrd6M.<xrtf. a<xc<t(69M 4-6te4. Paxf^te reduxr(ed (A<x( Ae "(Atxut^t <^<xiMt^ docnu (Ae '7t6le and /^Mut^'XM r6(Aer4 C<A<X4 xduettture, Au( (Ae re<zl adxxett(ure c<x(X4 at- <^Md <xld-^<x4A6<x*ied 'PAoxtdureiM uxeddtMx^. ^( (Ai4(ed ^<xr (Aree d<ttf41" Paxfne added (Aat Ae 64 &(x*t46derc(i<^ (aAtxo^ d^rt 6M a 100-Mtile d<xt^-4led r6de 6M /fta4Aa 4(x*He(6*Me 4<X<XM. 'SU( 0 ve dlewed doxuM a C6((le iince A/ (^xxd Mto-rrced. /4( Atune 6*t '7H'<yA6le, /4l<x., S(ec<Mird/T4464(emt ^A<xrie4, (P-tdicer fr. A(dd4 ACA cf<yu*u^ 4(X*t, (P-A<vite4 III. 'JAe elder (P<Mcer reeetttlcf4a6led M (Ae (P-adte A<yA<y4., (<xA6Hf (Ae ^Acfr IrtMc (Ae '7H'<yA6le 4At/uf4ird (tx 7V6l*K6*o^t<M-, '• •• ';?v • V:--, •-.'i^V ^ecetUlc^ re(6red ^TOMC (Ae SOTl, 'S<X4UM 'ntoMuel SUiAO. u646t4 P6Metf Ptxitit uxiiA A64 UM.^, daxcra. OMAC daut^(er, /fMO^ar(xt6Ma. lAe S6l(Aa4 MtaAe (Ae6r AMU. 6M P<xr(u<^al aad un^e aMCf S'TTl ^rieMdd (4X 4t<xfi- Atf and dacp AelU udieM docAed ^^ , . '8(X4UM S<X6 Pat^M '4 {aMt.6t(f (AC46(4 A6Mt <XM (Ae 0iter4ea4 OAttx utAde 6(UAa4 dtxcAed 6M d<xM<} "SeacA. lAecf are. {IMC ie{(. dtxH. I^MOH; dau^A(er. /44A(ecf; Pa^aM; 4<XH, dfiex aad UA6{e. dee. ;V.' =• - • .'.iV -" ^Ar64 Sierra eau^A( (A64 4(eelAead 6M ^r/XM( a/ (Ae /4l(^/XMae S^TTl Aall. ^Arc4 4acl4 a4 a 27HSS^- �ifiPij-•• ..iV- • ••V • ,:7^" •• •• v'>V'-«.-r-'»i''*-:i"-i':J.<^.':'; 7"77W--7 12 MOVEMRER1994 SEAFARERS LOG NOVEMRER1994 SEAFARERS LOG 13 71 .7,' ".:rK": • • '7 • -.•,;._ ', • l rewmembers aboard [the MV Advantage surmounted rough seas to rescue hundreds of exand hausted I ravenous South Yemeni refugees aboard two gunboats in deplorable condition which were in danger of sinking. On July 9, the Advantage and its crewmembers came to the aid of the two foundering gunboats containing 353 men, women and children who were fleeing the civil war between the north and south in their native Yemen. The Advantage, a breakbulk ship operated by Red River Ship­ ping for the Military Sealift Com­ mand (MSG), had just finished unloading U.S. military armored vehicles in Kuwait when it was contacted by the MSG, which ad­ vised the captain of the position of the two distressed gunboats in the Gulf of Aden. The South Yemeni gunboats (identified only as boats 121 and 123) were direct­ ly on the course of the Advantage from Kuwait to the Red Sea, so the MSG requested that the vessel and crew investigate the situation and render assistance if possible. According to news reports, six boats had attempted to leave Aden harbor under the guns of North Yemeni forces. Four of those had been blown up and sunk. The two boats rescued by the Advantage v/cre literally all that was left of South Yemen's army and navy. Included in those rescued were the head of the army, the advisor minister of defense and various military colonels. Also aboard was South Yemen's deputy prime minister. Preparing for the Rescue Preparations for the rescue began by all departments the night before the mission took place. However, crewmembers did not know how many people they would be bringing on board or the condition of the refugees until the Advantage reached the two gunboats. "The night before, we got the house ready. We cleared out several rooms and began prepar­ ing food and drinks for when the refugees came on board, because what we did know is that they had been without food and water for a little while," Steward/Bakqr JohnVenables told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG. A shipboard hospital and emergency room was set up for the sick and injured by Second Mate Steven Souza and QMED Richard Sanford, who helped the South Yemeni refugees in need of medical attention with his extensive paramedic background. Preparations by the deck crew, led by Bosun Shaw Matthews, included making fenders by at­ taching lines to large tires and lowering them from the Ad­ vantage in order to keep the vessels' hulls from smashing against one another. 7' f , •. ." ' ".7 The Advantage reached the first gunboat at 6 a.m. and found hundreds of heavily armed South Yemeni soldiers aboard that vessel. "We had no idea that they were so heavily armed," noted Matthews. "The element of surprise was so great when we first saw how many weapons they had. It was a very scary and tense time while the refugees and our crewmembers sized one another up," Matthews explained. "I don't think I feared for my life, but I was afraid of what might happen when we brought them on board. They were in a very desperate situation, and they more than outnumbered us," said the bosun. "What we realized later was that the refugees were scared too," he added. Venables recalled that at first it was not apparent that women and children were aboard the ves­ sels. "When we first came upon the boats, we could not see the women or children. The Yemenis had them all hidden inside. Once they realized that we were there to help them, everyone appeared on deck," he said. Ghief Gook Matt Spence noted that although communica­ tion was difficult at first, it was soon evident that the refugees were ready to comply with any condi­ tions set by the Advantage crew. "Before we^ould bring them on board, we had to get the Yemeni soldiers to throw away their weapons," recalled Spence. "The captain called down from the bridge to ask the refugees to disarm." "Once it became ap­ parent that we were there to help, the Yemenis began throwing their weapons into the sea," he said. Rescue Begins The Advantage maneuvered itself into position to receive lines from the first gunboat. Rough seas caused heavy rolling of the ship and initially hampered the crew's efforts. "Due to high swells, we couldn't lower the gangway, so we sent down the pilot ladder," explained Matthews. The lines offered by the gun­ boats were too small to hold the vessels to the Advantage, so Mat­ thews, AB Lawrence Jackson and Sanford descended the pilot ladder and boarded both gunboats to help the refugees. "Due to lack of experience, the refugees were having trouble handling the lines, so we basically helped &em organize in order for our rescue efforts to be conducted safely," explained Matthews. "We showed them how to hold the ladder so they would not hurt themselves and strapped those who needed to go in the gumey safely in place," he added. "We got down onto the first boat and the first thing we noticed was the incredible stench and the horrible condition of the vessel. It was like nothing I have ever seen," Matthews stated. "Conditions on both of the boats were absolutely deplorable," said Bosun Shaw. "Not only were they filthy from the hundreds of Yemenis strug­ gling to survive while at sea, but the boats seemed to be poorly maintained. They looked as if they had been tied up for a great amount of time," he added. Matthews said that although the refugees had thrown the weapons they were holding into the ocean, there were hundreds of other arms resting in various places aboard the boats. "There were literally guns everywhere you looked. In the piping and wiring conduits, shoved in comers and almost everywhere our eyes could see, there were guns. It was an amaz­ ing sight," added the bosun. Making the Transfer Once lines were secure and all visible weapons had been thrown into the sea, tlie transfer operation began and did not stop until the last refugee was hoisted firom the second Iwat later that afternoon. During the boarding process, many of the South Yemenis had trouble using the pilot ladder. "Hungry, thirsty, exhausted and traumatized, a 30-foot climb up a rope ladder is tough for a man in good shape, but for the old and sick it is Mount Everest," wrote AB William Kallins in an article describing the rescue which was published in the Bradenton Herald of Bradenton, Fla. He added that the crewmembers also lowered lifelines and a metal gurney to help pull up the weak and sick and keep them from being crushed between the parallel hulls. Three pregpant women and two soldiers with gunshot wounds woe hoisted safely aboard the Ad­ vantage mHaSi gumey. QMED Sanford carried the 15 South Yemeni children from the gunboats one at a time, on his back, up the 30-foot pilot ladder to safety aboard the Advantage. "We worked about 10-and-ahalf hours straight, in 105 degree heat, getting people on board," Spence stated. "T^e entire crew really worked together to get the job done. It was very important to us to save the refugees." searched the refugees one by one for additional weapons that had not been thrown into the sea. Only a few were discovered and those were given up voluntarily. "You could see the hunger in [the refugees'] eyes," Matthews recalled. "Not only for food and water but for friendly human con­ tact. They had literally been through hell," he observed. When the refugees from the first vessel were aboard the Ad­ vantage, crewmembers began to communicate with them. "Because most of the refugees on the gunboats were Yemeni of­ ficials, they were very well-edu­ cated. There were many who spoke English and explained to us that they were fleeing the country because people were being butchered in the streets of Yemen," noted Spence, who also provided the photos accompany­ ing this article. Venables recalled that the refugees had been fighting for days without end before their departure from the war-tom na­ tion. "They described to us the horrors of the civil war in their country. They had literally been fighting street to street, home to home, for more than three months before their escape. In fact, they had to fight their way out of the hairbor on the day of foeir escape, just barely making it out alive," recalled Venables. "When I reflect back on the Taking Care of the Refugees required the amputation of a toe. Advantage, something that they had not experienced in a long time. Special Galley Efforts "Being in the desperate situa­ Meanwhile the steward tion that they had been in, they department, consisting of Spence, were just overwhelmed to be Venables and SA William Wickamong friendly people," said land, served the refugees Venables. hundreds of pounds of rice and "What was most wonderful cases of vegetables mixed with a were the children. The 15 of them soup base. "Because they had not averaged in age between 2 and 5 had any type of nourishment in years old. Once on board, with several days, the food we served their tummies full and made to had to be an important and quick feel secure, they became kids source of protein and vitamins. again—running and playing and We did not prepare any meat be­ laughing. It really made afi the cause that could make them sick," hard work worthwhile," noted Venables. Spence recalled, "We set up Venables added. The steward/baker noted that two food stations and fed Spence took over a lot of the everyone. We brought out big responsibility of caring for the pots of food and kept feeding children. He helped them get until they were full." cleaned up and fed while teaching Feeding, housing and provid­ them new American songs. ing medical attention for the 353 "The playfulness of the refugees went on through the children provided some relief night. "The entire crew per­ from the seriousness of the situa­ formed heroically to get the tion. They were the best. They refugees comfortably settled," noted Spence. Once the refugees had rested, | slept and eaten, many were able to find temporary comfort aboard the Crewmembers worked! for more than 10 hours j bringing the 353 Yemeni refugees from both! boats aboard the Ad-\ vantage. \ Once on board, crewmembers 7' , Michael Koppenhaver, Bosun Shaw Matthews, AB Lawrence Jackson and OS Bill Kallins make fenders for the Advantage ' inpreparaSon for the rescue operation. ? | " . . . * ^« .iC'- - -7 - ,• Once the refugees realized thatl the Advantage was there to res-| cue them, the children and! women came out from their hiding' places. , . ~ i Once lines were secured, crew- | members prepare to bring the ' refugees on board while the second boat remains drifting in the distance. -r, Chief Cook Matt Spence made I many fast friends among the! Yemeni children, who werel relieved to laugh and play again| aboard the Advantage. Silil '"""I • 'i fVr "' f 7~"- -Simf -1 77-7'' .-..v...." . '7:'" """" - 'c<^\ • i-. ':J .7 77 A 'Tense Time' The South Yemenis had been adrift for four days, nine miles offshore. When the Advantage reached them, they had only reserve fuel, a little food and vir­ tually no water left. "TTie refugees had practically run out of food and water several days before we found them. They were really tired. There was also a school of sharks swimming in the area," said Spence. He noted that although the sharks were "only four-footers, they can cause problems," r Although lines were attached, the rough seas made it difficult to bring the gunboats alongside the Advantage. •t'-; ' • •• A 9 7. When everyone was safely abodrd the Advantage, the refugees relaxed and enjoyed cold drinks and sandwiches on deck. --7''-K. ' . - •, «• still had a lot of life in them and they were playing as soon as we got them on board and away from all dangers," recalled Spence. Several hours after the refugees were situated aboard the Advantage, Matthews noted a change in the atmosphere. "The mood of the Yemenis changed dramatically from relief and hap­ piness over being rescued, to a great sense of sadness and despair," he recalled. "In the long trip to Oman, they had time to think of their foture and their ultimate destiny," the bosun reflected. 'They had just been forced out of the only country they had ever known, and they really had no place to go. It was very sad." v", ^ ,• _• '•7 i \\ /,I •• • 7' I '' ' j ^ ^ '-h • The End of the Voyage The Advantage was instructed to deliver the South Yemenis to safety in a refugee camp set up for them by the United Nations in Oman, 12 hours from where the rescue took place and 14 hours off course for the Advantage. All 353 South Yemeni refugees were transported safely to the camp in Oman by the Ad­ vantage crew. According to Spence, it took approximately two hours for all the refugees to leave the ship. "I can honestly say that I shook everyone of the 353 refugees' hands and received many hugs from the grateful Yemenis. It was kind of sad for the crew to say goodbye. We wished them all the best," said Matthews. : In a telex sent to the ship, crewmembers aboard the Ad­ vantage were commended by Vice Admiral Douglas J. Katz, Gommander Naval Surface For­ ces U.S. Atlantic Fleet. He stated, "I would like to extend a hearty congratulations to you on your successfrjl rescue of die 353 Yemeni personnel adrift in international waters. Without exception, I am sure that those rescued will forever hold the U.S. merchant marine in the highest esteem. Your actions serve as an example of the time honored tradition of service and compassion associated with mariners the world over." Mark Parris, acting assistant secretary for Near Eastern affairs for the Department of State, wrote in a letter to Red River Shipping Gompany, "I wish to take this op­ portunity to thank you and your employees for their successful rescue at sea of nearly 300 men, women and children fleeing the unfortunate conflict in Yemen. The Department of State commends Ship Master Hairy F. Ball and the crew of the MVAdvantage for ac­ ting in the finest tradition of the U.S. merchant marine." "We can think of no more out­ standing example of the dedica­ tion and ability of the U.S. merchant marine than this," Par­ ris added. Rodney Gregory, vice presi­ dent of operations for Red River Shipping Gorp., praised the Ad­ vantage crew in a letter to the Seafarers LOG. "Food, water and showers were provided to the 353 refugees, who were delivered to Oman the following day. This un­ selfish effort by the master and crew of the MV Advantage is an outstanding example of the dedica­ tion and ability of the U.S. mer­ chant marine," Gregory wrote. The Advantage is used to aug­ ment the MSG'S prepositioning program which is designed to meet the U.S. military's rapid response needs in times of war or international conflict. I - Before the Yemenis were allowed to come on board, crewmembers communicate to them that they have to throw all weapons into the sea. Crew Is Praised isisl# ' Rollingatireondeck, which S2 will be used to keep hulls from smashing against one another, is OS Bill Kallins. - situation, it neverceases to amaze me. Here you have these people who had been fighting for their lives for months without end, and then we came along and told them that if they threw away their weapons, we would help them and their families. And they did. They threw away their weqwns and put their trust in us. It was an incredible feeling," Venables noted. "It was amazing to see the looks on their faces when they came aboard. They would hug us and express how happy they were," recalled Spence. As some of the Advantage crewmembers were exchanging information with the South Yemenis who spoke English, other Seafarers were aiding the sick and the injured while the steward department put the final touches on a meal for more than 350. Attending to those in need of medical attention was Sanford, who Venables said did a "remark­ able job." The pregnant women, soldiers and the elderly were treated for simple ailments and released from the ship's hospital "happy to be alive," Venables said. Of all 353 refugees brought aboard, only one person suffered a slightly serious injury which later "i- "• . • _• s,;., .•• |ii|iip7:7 The Yemenis wait patiently to board the Ad­ vantage while watching the first of their fellow countrymen climb the pilot ladder to safety. •f- A Yemeni soldier explains the horrible condi­ tions of the civil war to QMED Bob Ready while newly boarding refugees are searched for ad­ ditional weapons. �:--*.i6.--. .• -••W' vt- -• .' .•••.••• •'•• • SJ :-.:-4--^ •• • • 14 N0¥EMRER1994 SEAFARERS LOG Harvest Grains Keep Orgulf Tugs Busy . ••y.;:.-. ;.'T. . As the cooler winds of autumn begin sweeping down from the north, SIU crewmembers aboard Orgulf tugboats along the Mississippi River continue to work without interruption. "It has been a busy summer for us, which can be attributed to the flooding of the Mississippi last year. Looking to this fall—harvest time—it seems like we will continue to have plenty of work," Dorlis Taylor, who sails as a cook aboard the Enterprise Star, told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG. Friendship Eases Hard WorlT Taylor added that teamwork and friendship aboard the tug makes hard work a little easier. "Because we work in so many different conditions—day and night. as well assometimes unfavorable weather— it helps to like what you do and the people you woik with. We are aU like a big family," she noted. Besides its usual loads of mulch, coal, scrap and other dry cargo, Orgulf tugs have been moving much of the summer crops along the waterways and will con­ tinue as the fall harvest begins. "There is always so much work to be done that it is really great to be working with others who not only share similar interests but also who make going to work fun," noted Eddie Oliver Jr. who sails as a deckhand aboard the 7.5. McDermptt. SlU-crewed Orgulf tugs travel a diverse spaii of waters along the Missis­ sippi, and personal safety is always a con­ cern, as is the safety of others navigating the area Safety Is Stressed Crewmembers aboard vessels like the Peter Fanchi reinforce the importance of safety on the waterways. Deckhand Andreas Knighter stated that he always practices safety while on board and en­ courages his fellow crewmembers todo so as well. "It is our concern for one another that makes sailing on Orgulf tugs so great. When we are sailing... all we have is each other," the deckhand noted. Depending on thearea and current con­ ditions in their designated watenvay, some boats are able to operate with as manv as 35 barges. A busy season means non-stop work for Utilityman Chris Orgulf, which is based in Cincinnati, Hormuth (left) and Mate Barry Clarke (right) of the J.B. operates tugs and barges along the Missis- Klelnpeter. sippi River. While the upper part of the river closes in winter because of ice and bad weather, the company operates vessels year-round from Moore's Landing, Mo. south to New Orleans. n «« . 1 *71 .*_*•_ Preparing fresh clam chowder for crewmembers on the U.S. McDermoffls Cook Peggy Robinett. ; Overseeing deck operations On a quick break, Lead Deckhand Checking the lines on board the "'"fV'?'' aboard the Pefer Jo//of is Lead Mozell Turner catches up on union J.S. McDermott \s Deckhand for egg salad aboard the Knighter, gets t^^ Deckhand Dennis Joliot. news aboard the Enfe/pnse Star. Eddie Oliver Jr. Enterprise Star. tie up tne vessel. Slow, For Great Lakes' Iglehart Aboard the J.A.W. Iglefiart, which was delayed from ^ginning its sailing season by icy waters, are Watchman Jeffrey Davis (right) and SIU Algonac Patrolman Ken Homer. Despite a glacial start to the Great Lakes sailing season, the J.A.W. Iglehart has been working great M Wjif S""®' operator. Inland Lakes kola n Management, expects the vessel will be sailing late into the year. The slow beginning of the sail­ ing season was due to thick ice for­ mations that covered Lake Superior and the connecting channels. As a result, many Great Lakes ships did not begin operations until late spring. The J.A. W. Iglehart, a self-unloading cement carrier, became stuck in more than 36 inches of ice when entering Thunder Bay near Alpena, Mich, to pick up cargo. Industry sources predict that Great Lakes ships like the Iglehart will work late into the year. There is no shortage of cargoes on the lakes this year, so shipping should continue as long as the weather permits. V Second Cook Paul Paton (left) and Algonac Patrolman Tim Kelley Porter Ahmed Kaid tidies up the Getting ready for the next meal aboard the Inland Lakes Manageexpect the Iglehart to have steady work until the lakes freeze over, galley aboard the J.A.W. Iglehart. ment vessel is Second Cook Lee Sleeper. •\ ; r' �^ ,, , -ty , SEAFMtERSLOG NOVEMBER 1994 Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea December 1994 & January 1995 Membership Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, inland Waters SEPTEMBER 16 — OCTOBER 15,1994 ••REGISTERED ON BEACH TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups All Groups Trip Class A Class B Class C Class A Class B Class C Reliefs DECK DEPARTMENT 8 57 53 5 28 14 24 2 6 10 6 2 •1 1 1 2 4 9 13 5 3 0 2 1 20 20 19 5 13 9 1 12 3 33 0 14 6 9 1 1 8 44 26 5 15 3 7 14 21 36 5 - 39 8 17 11 - • • 12 12 42 7 •M-'m :• 0 ''•Us.- ", 12 10 16 10 ^-•:v.-13'.'v. 11 ••• '•^\''y-2iv: 29 1?" 4: 6 43 49 7 20 7 • 1 2 7 7 12 3 7 4 1 4 5 25 7 0 11 6 1 9 22 38 53 7 16 19 1 4 1 :Civ: 0 • 2 0 0 0 2 0 0 13 2 1 1 • .• 0 0 0 6 0 0 0 0 • 0 0 139 426 338 61 135 152 42 66 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 4 35 52 :s:t 11 . 6 . 2 4 ' 1 4 ::../t:5 0 0 0 1 0 3 12 iti1 .ttitt,6' t::.^ i-:::it 3 ' 5 8 15 5 8 5 5 4 9 2 9 12 6 2 5 5 0 3 23 13. 3 8 11 2 24 t.'-: 11 20 3'• • 5 tt 8 •^y-:-2% 5 O'tt 32 ir.:3 1 28 , S6i: 4 0 • •' 18 1 17. ... 5 16 MyiMi :t:::4. • 5 22 21 18 8 1 3 0 4 7 4 3 5 . 4 0 7 12 6 3 6 8 5 5 7 20 25 6 5 S 9 :t 2\--^'t. t'tit 6' . 0 2 0 t: 1 0 0 26 0 ••:t|i::'6t' 0 3 " 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 61 276 208 40 28 85 86 35 STEWARD DEPARTMENT i-2.. 40 8 0 3 14 0 W22 1 0 2 1 y-r. 0 St- 4--: V 3 ':f4' • 'i-yi 0 13 6 6 2 3 5 6 . 4 4 14 11 0 1• 1 1 3 3 11 9 6 1 4 11 2 4 M-44 f 11 3 1 • "5:^ 3 10 25 8 2 3 22 5 15 14 8 14 2 2 16 36 4 2 4 16 2 4 0 4 3 0 1 1 8 17 11 1 i ' 1 1 3 4 12 18 0 6 0 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 . 1' , ^ 1 8 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 55 228 187 45 98 40 16 30 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 89 - 35 •• 14 0 0 18 13 4 1 2 0 2 0 .-t-'t' 2': 0 2 10 0 3 i 0 1 :.3 ^ 24 28 7 0 12 9 1 17 4 31 2 0 1 8 0 2 21 29 7 0 8 11 5 14 • . g..' •s? 22 28 7 ,0rr' 6 0 15 33 43 . T-V ,0 :tr 16 7 2 15 21 28 9 it:tiO:':.t: 3 10 3 11 16 41 9 0 1 13 9 5 19 4 5 0 3 3 4 7 112 47 10 0 10 13 0 53 10 35 0 1 4 2 3 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 3 36 0 0 0 11 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 331 450 95 0 50 117 32 161 •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Port New York 25 36 Philadelphia 0 5 Baltimore 5 7 Norfolk 10 13 Mobile 9 12 New Orleans 12 26 Jacksonville 19 17 San Francisco 16 23 16 Wilmington 11 Seattle 28 29 3 Puerto Rico 7 18 Honolulu 4 25 Houston 20 St. Louis 0 1 8 Piney Point / 1 0 0 Algonac 167 239 Totals Port 19 22 New York 1 Philadelphia • .it-s • • 6::t.; it:.'8. Baltimore 6 5 Norfolk 4 7 Mobile 13 New Orleans 6 10 8 Jacksonville 18 San Francisco 15 12 7 Wilmington 10 16 Seattle 3 7 Puerto Rico 8 2 Honolulu 13 20 Houston 0 0 St. Louis 4 17 Piney Point 0 0 Algonac 145 123 Totals Port 20 -12 New York 2 1 . Philadelphia 3 4 Baltimore 8 9 Norfolk 7 5 Mobile 5 New Orletuis 5 5V;; 4 Jacksonville 13 San Francisco 33 6 Wilmington 11 12. 14 Seattle 0 4 Puerto Rico 9 7 Honolulu , %} 9 Houston 0 0 St. Louis 6 3 Kney Point 0 0 Algonac 102 121 Totals Port 40 New Yoi^ 1 2 Philadelphia 6 0 Baltimore 13 6 Norfolk 16 1 Mobile 10 New Orleans 4 21 1 Jacksonville 22 San Francisco 8 15 5 Wilmington 20 7 Seattle 2 2 Puerto Rico 28 3 Honolulu 15 5 Houston 0 0 St. Louis 32 0 Piney Point 0 0 Algonac 241 49 Totals Totals All 727 160 'm 292 351 394 136 146 869 1.339 586 Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. A total of 1,027 jobs were shipped an SlU-contracted deep sea vessels. Of the 1,027 jobs shipped, 351 jobs or about 34 percent were taken by "A" seniority members. The rest were filied by "B" and "C seniority people. From September 16 to October 15,1994, a total of 146 trip relief jobs were shipped. Since the trip relief program began on April 1,1982, a total of 21,776 jobs have been shipped. •• " 15 Piney Point Monday: December 5; Tuesday, January 3* 'changed by New Year's Day H-i' New York Tuesday: December 6, Januaiy 3 Philadelphia Wednesday: December 7, January 4 Baltimore Thursday: December 8, January 5 Norfolk Thursday: December 8, Januaiy 5 Jacksonville Thursday: December 8, January 5 Algonac s Friday: December 9, January 6 Houston Monday: December 12, January 9 New Orleans Tuesday: December 13, January 10 Mobile Wednesday: December 14, January 11 San Francisco Thursday: December 15, January 12 Wilmington Monday: December 19, January 16 Seattle Friday: December 23; Monday, Januaiy 23* 'changed by Martin Luther King's birthday San Juan Thursday:December 8, Januaiy 5 St. Louis Friday: December 16, January 13 Honolulu Friday: December 16, January 13 Duluth Wednesday: December 14, January 11 Jersey City Wednesday: December 21, January 18 New Bedford Tuesday: December 20, January 17 EatA port's meeUiystaite at 10:30ajn. Personals VICTOR DALE MATTISON Anyone knowing Victor Dale Mattison or his where­ abouts, please contact Loiraine Mattison at 432 Helen Street, Alpena, MI 49707; orphone (517) 354-8836. NORBERTO "ALBERT" PINEDA Please contact Laura Hand Comilsen at 406 Gait Avenue, Rock Falls, BL 61071; or phone (815) 6264693. Your sister is ill. CEFERINO REYES Please contact yoiu" son, Mario Reyes, at 376 Oak TrailsRoad,DesPlaines,IL 60016. JOHN FRANCIS ROBERTS Please contact your son, John Roberts,at 18 Bernard Drive North, MillersviUe, MD 21108. RADAMESTORO Please contact your wife, Laura Isabel Mejia, at 332 Starr Street, BrooUyn, NY; or phone (718) 628-9646. Corrections • SIU Pensioner William Drew recently informed the Seafarers LOG that reports of his death have been greatly exaggerated. An article about the Manitou on page 12 in last month's LOG mistakenly identified Brother Drew as deceased. "The doctors have given up on me a couple of times, but I'm okay," Drew said recently from his home in Morehead City, N.C. "Actually, this is nothing new. I was listed as Missing In Action twice during World War II." Brother Drew joined the SIU in 1950 in New York and sailed as a QMED and electrician. He retired 14 years ago. • In the caption at the bottom of page 5 in last month's Seafarers LOG, Jim McGee was misidentifled. He is the Houston port agent. • The caption identifying two photographs of New Or­ leans-based crewmembers on page 12 of last month's Seafarers LOG was incorrect. The photo of boatmen Wil­ liam Judd Sr., Steve Judd (who now serves as an SIU patrolman) and William Judd Jr. should have idenbfied their vessel as the Margaret S. Cooper, a shipdocking tug operated by Crescent Towing. The photograph of boatmen Mike Maggett, Eddie Moore, Steve Judd, David Queipo, A. Stevenson and David Kuhlman should have noted their vessel as Red Circle's Teresa F. It was the Teresa F. that recently carried phosphorus. 4:^ .••5' • f: •'•1/ M- • �NO¥EMOER 1994 16 SEAFARERS LOG Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes Seafarers International Union Directory '-'L: '1 Michael Sacco President John Fay Secretary-Treasurer Joseph Sacco Executive Vice President Augustin Tellez Vice President Collective Bargaining George McCartney Vice President West Coast Roy A. "Buck" Mercer Vice President Government Services Jack CafTey Vice President Atlantic Coast Byron Kelley Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters DeanCorgey Vice President Gulf Coast HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301)899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr. Algonac, Ml 48(K)1 (810)794-4988 BALTIMORE 1216 E. Baltimore St. Baltimore, MD 21202 (410)327-4900 DULUTH 705 Medical Arts Building Duluth,MN 55802 (218)722-4110 HONOLULU 606KalihiSt. Honolulu, HI 96819 (808)845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St. Houston, TX 77002 (713)659-5152 JACKSONVH^LE 3315 Liberty St. JacksonvUle, FL 32206 (904)353-0987 JERSEY CITY 99 Montgomery St. Jersey Qty, NJ 07302 (201)435-9424 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy. Mobile, AL 36605 (205)478-0916 NEWBEDFORD 48 Union SL New Bedford, MA 02740 (508)997-5404 NEW ORLEANS 630 Jackson Ave. . New Orleans, LA 70130 (504)529-7546 ^•NEWYORK. 635 Fourth Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718)499-6600 NORFOLK • 115 Third St Norfolk, VA 23510 (804)622-1892 PHILADELPHIA 2604S.4St Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215^)336-3818 PINEYPOINT P.O. Box 75 Kney Point MD 20674 (301)994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 2 West Dixie Highway Dania, FL 33004 (305)921-5661 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St. San Francisco, CA 94105 (415)543-5855 Government Services Division (415)861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16Vi Santurce, PR 00907 (809)721-4033 SEATTLE 2505 First Ave. Seattle, WA 98121 (206)441-1960 ST. LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave. St Louis, MO 63116 (314)752-6500 WILMINGTON 5ION. Broad Ave. Wilmington, CA 90744 (310)549-4000 SEPTEMBER 16 — OCTOBER 15,1994 NP—Non Priority ..EEO™ONBE.C„ C.»,CL*Src..»NP Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac 20 1 11 2 0 6 0 14 16 C,»NP C.»,a.*tarC.,.NP DECK DEPARTMENT 0 18 6 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 16 . 3 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 5 2 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 0 42 0 24 J 10 3 ,i 0 0 44 30 74 Totals Ail Departments 0 51 20 0 39 11 0 103 * 'Tot^ Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. ** "Registered on the Beach" memis the total number of men registered at the, port at the end of last month. ' ' i Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters SEPTEMBER 16 — OCTOBER 15,1994 •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf-Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals 2 2 44 2. 50 "i-K'i. 2 22 0 25 1 2 0 5 0 9 0 1 10 0 17 0 15 32 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 1 ' • TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C ••REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C • .• DECK DEPARTMENT 0 0 I 3 2 2 0 27 0 27 6 47 30 8 77 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 16 0 0 0 0 1 16 24 3 51 4 82 3 2 29 0 34 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 1 0 0 • V, 2 • 0 0 ""'Vl' 0 4 -0 5 0 2 3 7 5 2 4 0 19 0 46 65 2 7 0 5 14 :• 0 0 1 • v.V;- 0 2 • ••.0:-::S 0 2 ill 2 4 Totals All Departments 80 11 40 98 10 35 134 17 * 'Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. *• "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. 84 Are You Missing Important Maii? copy of the LOG delivered to you, if you have changed your address, or if your name or address is misprinted or incomplete, please complete the form and send it to: Seafarers International Union Address Correction Department 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 In order to ensure that each active that you are not getting your union SIU member and pensioner receives mail, please use the form on this page a copy of the Seafarers LOG each to update your home address. month—as well as other important Your home address is your per­ mail such as W-2 forms, pension and manent address, and this is where all welfare checks and bulletins or official union documents will be notices—a correct home address mailed (unless otherwise specified). must be on file with the union. If you are getting more than one If you have moved recently or feel (PLEASE PRINT) HOME ADDRESS FORM 11/94 T I I I Name Phone No. L Address Social Security No. • Active SIU • Other Book No. /. • Pensioner This will be my permanent address for all official union mailings. This address should remain in the union file unless otherwise changed by me personally. I I L. (Signed). - J �r • v .•V-'v..v •^',-f%^...:. •' ' • . _•" • ikJjr ..'(tfji"--'-• ,; •_,','I.-:. .^•«'- '..- NO¥EMBER 1994 SEAFARERSLOC J oining the growing number of SIU pensioners this month are 19 Seafarers who have retired to the beach after many years of sailing the world's water­ ways. Twelve of those signing off" sailed in the deep sea division; five navigated the inland water­ ways; one sailed on the Great Lakes; and one was a member of the Railroad Marine Division. Ten of the retiring Seafarers served in the U.S. military—five in the Navy, two in the Anny, two in the Air Force and one in the Coast Guard. Among those joining the ranks of the retirees, James S. Rogers completed the bosun recertification course at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. Deep Sea member Robert E. Wagner has been with the union for the longest period, beginning his seafaring career in 1946. The oldest retiring mem­ bers are Clarence E. Lancaster at 72, and Levi Hershberger and Wilbur J. Crooks, both at 71. On this page, the Seafarers LOG presents brief biographical accounts of this month's pen­ sioners. DEEP SEA JAMES F. BRACK, 65, joined the Seafarers in 1966 in the port of New York. He sailed in the engine department. Bom in Georgia, Brother Brack has retired to Texas. ROBERT G. ECKLEY, 63, joined the SIU in 1960 in the port of Detroit. Bom in Pen­ nsylvania, Brother Eckley started sailing in the Great Lakes division and then transferred to the deep sea division. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Eckley served in the U.S. Air Force in 1951. He resides in Pennsyl­ vania. LORENZO A. FORGERON, 67, joined the union in 1958 in the port of Seat­ tle. He sailed in the deck department. Bom in Nova Scotia, Brother Forgeron has retired to Washington. WILLIAM A. GIL­ LETTE, 65, joined the Seafarers in 1974 in the port of Duluth, Minn. Bom in Michigan, he started his sail­ ing career in the Great Lakes division, later transferring to the deep sea division as a member of the steward department. Brother Gillette upgraded at the Lundeberg School. He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1950 to 1953. Brother Gillette retired to Michigan. yr- RAILROAD MARINE To Our New Pensioners ... Thanks for a Job Well Done Each month in the Seafarers LOG, the names of SIU members who recently have become pensioners appear with a brief biographical sketch. These men and women have served the maritime industry well, and the SIU and all their union brothers and sisters wish them happiness and health in the days ahead. LEVI HERSH­ BERGER, 71, joined the SIU in 1969 in the port of Detroit. He began sailing in the Great Lakes division, later transferring to the deep sea division. Brother Hershberger sailed in the engine department. He served in the U.S. Army in 1943. A native of Michigan, Brother Hershberger currently resides in Texas. ALEX A. JARADIE, 55, joined the union in 1967 in the port of San Francisco. He sailed in the steward department. Bom in Yemen, Arabia, Brother Jaradie became a naturalized U.S. citizen in 1%8. He lives in New York. ROBERT K. LAM­ BERT, 64, joined the Seafarers in 1960 in the port of Mobile, Ala. as a member of the deck department. Brother Lambert served in the U.S. Navy from 1947 to 1950. Bom in Florida, Brother Lambert resides in Alabama. MANUEL F.LOPEZ, 64, joined the SIU in 1961 in the port of Hous­ ton. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Lopez upgraded to QMED at the Lundeberg School. He served in the U.S. Army fiom 1947 to 1955. A native of New Jersey, Brother Lopez has retired to Califomia. JOAQUIN R. MILLER, 64, joined the union in 1959 in the port of Bal­ timore. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Miller upgraded frequently at Piney Point and received his QMED endorsement there. He served in the U.S. Coast Guard from 1947 to 1958. Bom in Mas­ sachusetts, Brother Miller resides in Washington. LINWOOD E. PRICE, 59, joined the Seafarers in 1955 in the port of Norfolk, Va. He sailed in the steward department. Brother Price still calls his native North Carolina home. JAMES S. ROGERS, 55, a graduate of the Andrew Fumseth School of Training, joined the SIU in 1959 in the port of Bal­ timore. He sailed in both the steward and deck departments. Brother Rogers upgraded at the Lundeberg School and com­ pleted the bosun recertification program there in 1982. A native of Virginia, he has retired to Maryland. ROBERT E. WAGNER, 65, began sailing with the union in 1946 in the port of Bal­ timore. He sailed in the deck department. Bom in Pen­ nsylvania, Brother Wagner has retired to Califomia. INLAND FRANK H. AUERSWALD, 57, joined the Seafarers in 1957 in the port of Philadelphia. He sailed as a mate and upgraded at the Lundeberg School a number of times, most recently to firstclass pilot. Boatman Auerswald served in the U.S. Navy. A na­ tive of Pennsylvania, Boatman Auerswald now resides in New Jersey. THOMAS M. DOHERTY, 59, joined the SIU in 1965 in the port of Philadelphia. He started sailing in the deep sea division and later transferred to the inland division. Boatman Doherty sailed in the deck department.; He upgraded frequently at the Lundeberg School. Boatman Doherty served in the U.S. Navy fiom 1952 to 1956. He presently resides in New Jersey. CLARENCE E. LAN­ CASTER, 72, joined the union in 1960 in the port of Nor­ folk, Va. He sailed as chief engineer. Bom in North Carolina, Boatman Lancaster still calls North Carolina home. VERNON E. VANSANT, 62, signed on with the Seafarers in 1962 in the port of Nor­ folk, Va, Joatman Vansant sailed as chief mate. He served in the U.S. f^Iavy from 1952 to 1953. A na­ tive of Delaware, Boatman Van­ sant now resides in Florida." 17 WILLIAM E. WILCOX, 62, a native of Michigan, joined the union in 1961 in Detroit. He began his sailing career on the Great Lakes and later transferred to the inland division. Boatman Wilcox sailed in the deck depart­ ment. He still calls Michigan home. GREAT LAKES NORMAN E. MOENICH, 62, an Ohio native, joined the Seafarers in 1961 in the port of Cleveland. He sailed as a tug deckhand. Boatman Moenich still calls Ohio home. WILBUR J. CROOKS, 71, joined the SIU in 1960 in the port of New York. Brother Crooks sailed as deckhand. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1943 to 1946. A native of New Jersey, Brother Crooks still calls New Jersey home. Corrections In the April and August edi­ tions of the Seafarers LOG, in­ correct information was given about new pensioner Arnold Ferry. Brother Perry, 65, joined the SIU in 1944 in the port of Boston, Mass. A New Bedford, Mass. native, he sailed in the deck department. Brother Perry still calls New Bedford home. In the October LOG, Joseph Self was described as sailing in the deck department. Boatman Self sailed in the in­ land division as a captain. LOG-A-RHYTHMS A Sleeping Warrior by Charles R. Westover A ship in port is like a sleeping warrior Waiting for its next battle with the sea. But when it's out on the ocean it becomes alive. Smoking, creaking and fighting the huge waves. It's a home, it's a fortress, it's a haven for few, A place to work, to eat, to sleep. To read one's memoirs of the past. To meditate, to plan, to hope. Huge and strong, if it could speak It would tell many tales of distant shores. Of the men who sailed her And took care of her. Quiet now, in port with its booms raised up high. Mostmen left, to forget for awhile The companionship of others. The loneliness of the days at sea. Just happy to be on land again. But anxious to go back. Quiet now, just a breeze, a seagull, A passing plane to remind us of the present. Looking at the giant warrior, carrier of cargo. Carrying supplies now like it was a hundred years ago. (Charles R. Westover, a resident of Dunedin, Fla., sailed with the SIU firom 1946 to 1954. In 1946, he helped organize Cities Service tankers. This poem was written in 1974 while sitting on the dock in Port Tampa.) The Sea and the Woman by Alban Castro The sea is like a woman. Some secrets left untold. The sea is like a woman. Its beauty we must unfold. The sea is like a woman. Its horizons so far to sea. The sea is like a woman. We know not what will be. The sea is like a woman. It can be cold, dark and gray. The sea is like a woman. But I find it hard to stay away. (Alban Castro sails an an OS with the SIU. He recently was aboard the Sealift Arabian Sea.) �i f;- 18 NOVEMRER1994 SEAFARERS LOG For RRF Operation^ Statu Seafarers have boarded the Cape Race to begin sea trials— the final phase of die ship's trans­ formation from a Saudi Arabian-flag vessel to a vessel in the U.S. Ready Reserve Force (RRF) fleet. Following its recent purchase by the Maritime Administration (MarAd) and subsequent conver­ sion in a Baltimore shipyard where all equipment and shipboard technology were brought up to U.S. Coast Guard standards—the SlU-crewed Cape Race went out on sea trials to verify that all equipment was in proper working order. The diesel engine was checked, fuel ef­ ficiency was monitored, and any­ thing that possibly could go wrong was evaluated and, if necessary, corrected. Bosun John McCIaren was pleased with the teamwork" aboard theship during this critical stage in the process of the ship becoming an operational RRF vessel. He credited Chief Steward Andre Gee, Chief Cook Harry Jones and the rest of the galley gang with providing some wonder­ ful meals to the hard-working crew. SIU Representative Sal Aquia, who took ^e photos accompany­ ing this article, met the vessel in Baltimore prior to its voyage to Norfolk, Va., where it is based, and noted that "the crew really loved the work." He added that the "food was out of this world" and that everything seemed very orderly aboard ship. Operated by International Marine Cairiers (IMC), the Cape Race wUl remain under govenment ownership for use in surge shipping fm d^n^times of conflict^or w^ ^ All equipment and operations aboard the SlU-crewed Cape Hace were thoroughly tested during sea trials Chief Cook Harry Jones serves lunch to RudiLiuzzi, captain on board AB Pasquale Girgilli completes Heading back to work after lunch are (frorn left) Chief Engineer Paul the Cape Race. The ship is in Sea trials, preparing for the RRF. some paperwork aboard ship. Mussotto, AB Joe Cirafissi and AB Bob Trigett. --•••- V «"K-:'K . Sea trials are busy times for Chief Steward AB Glenn Bake enjoys one of the hearty OMU Jeffrey Bull (left) relaxes while Chief Taking a break after lunch are SA Henry Andrd Gee (left) and Bosun John McCIaren. meals prepared by the galley gang. Cook Harry Jones gets to eat his dessert. Nelson (left) and Chief Steward Andr6 Gee. From the LNG Gemini w The LNG Gemini, one of seven LNG tankers in the Energy Transportation Corporation fleet, sails roundtrip between Arun or Bontang, Indonesia, where it loads its cargo, and Himeji, Osaka, Tobafa or Nagoya, Japan, where it discharges the liquid natural gas. The four photographs appearing below and at right were submitted to theSeafarers LOG by die Gemini's chief steward, Kris A. Hopkins, and show how some of the crewmembers pass their fr^ time on the 28-day roundtrip voyage. OMFn<; Kfivin Conklin and Paul Wolf break for a CUD of rofffelboaJdthe^ L,"}:. V . iui Bosun Ramli Mohamed enjoys the Independence Day cookout. Helping prepare a shipboard barbecue is Chef Cook Judi Chester, Steward Matt Scudder completes a workout in the ship's exercii room. �-; liOVEMBER 1994 Sf-. If /4 •• SEAFARERS LOG Secretary Lovell McElroy, Educa­ SEA-LAND NA VIGATOR (Seational Director Ron Day, Deck Land Service), August 14—Chair­ Delegate Harry R. Johns, Engine man Werner Becher, Secretary Delegate Dean Dobbins, Steward James H. Cbaney, l^ucationd Delegate Mohamed M. Quraish. Director Walter Stevens, Deck Secretary reported receipt of new Delegate Marc Cella, Engine The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union ship- pay rate for unlicensed crew. Delegate Robert D. Zurflub, tward minuk» as possibie. On occasion, b^use of space Educational director urged mem­ Steward Delegate Thomas M. bers to upgrade at Piney Point as Kelly. Chairman reported that ar­ iimitations, some wili be omitted. often as possible. Treasurer an­ rival in Tacoma, Wash, is later than Ships minutes ttrst are reviewed by the union's contract department nounced $645.50 in ship's fund scheduled due to typhoon en route. Those issues requiring attention or resoiution are addrest^ by (te after purchasing 50 new videotapes He thanked crew for helping keep in last four months. No beefs or dis­ lounge area clean and reminded union upon receipt of the ships minutes. The minutes are then puted OT reported in deck, engine crewmembers that vacation and forwarded to the Seafaren LOG for pubiication. or steward departments. Crewmem­ benefit forms are available aboard bers requested additional washing ship. Educational director advised SEAUFT ANTARCTIC (IMC), Educational Director T. Neuwiller, machine on crew living level. Ship crewmembers to take advantage of June 15—Chairman Brian Deck Delegate Louis Sorito, heading to Bahrain. upgrading opportunities at Paul Sandlin, Educational Director Steward Delegate A1 Fretta. Chair­ H^l Center. No beefs or disputed SACRAMENTO(Vulctin Car­ Marty Marcellus. Chairman ad­ man reminded crewmembers to OT reported by all three depart­ riers), August 6—Chairman Benvised crewmembers to take care close hatch in forepeak. He men­ ment delegates. Request made by nie Hobbs, Secretary M. Scott, when handling mooring lines. He tioned previous motion to sub­ crew for new toaster. Educational Director B. Caldwell, also noted ice machine needs scribe to Stars and Stripes Deck Delegate Spencer Lyle. NEWARK BAY(Sea-Land Ser­ repair. Secretary stressed impor­ magazine will be brought up with Chairman praised crew for fine vice), August 21—Chairman tance of upgrading skills at Piney captain. Secretary noted new linen job. He said any questions concern­ Pedro Sanchez, Secretary Felipe Point. No beefs or disputed OT system working well. Educational ing sanitary and OT would be P.A. Orianda, Educational Direc­ reported by deck, engine or crewmembers to director urged answered at payoff. Secretary tor Mark Rubl, Deck Delegate steward departments. Question take advantage of educational opSteve Yursha, Engine Delegate stressed importance of continuing raised regarding pay increase due portunites at Lundeberg School. SPAD donations. Educational William Parker. Chairman noted June 1. Next port: Long Beach, No beefs or disputed OT reported director urged all members to at­ radio in crew lounge and Calif. in all three departments. Copies of tend Lundeberg School. He noted microwave oven in crew mess still new contract handed out to each SEAUFT CHINA SEA (IMC), that a well-educated merchant unrepairable. Educational director member and final details of agree­ June 16—Chairman Ron Owens, marine is a strong merchant urged crewmembers to attend ment posted. Clarification ne^ed Secretary Toyokazu Gonzales, on questions of unemployment and marine. Treasurer announced $540 Piney Point for upgrading and spe­ Educational Director Joe Algere, cial courses, including refrigeration health benefit coverage for depend­ in ship's fund. Disputed OT Steward Delegate Brenda C. reported in deck department. No technician class. No beefs or dis­ ents. Vote of thanks given to Grays. Discussion held about puted OT reported in all depart­ steward department for tremendous beefs or disputed OT reported in travel pay. Chairman noted need engine or steward departments. ments. Russ Barrack elected new job. Next port: Nagoya, Japan. for copies of contract and job Special thanks given to steward deck delegate. Recommendations descriptions. Will await patrolman CHARLES L. BffOWW (Tran­ regarding pension requirements for­ department. Next port: Haifa, Is­ in Femdale, Wash. No beefs or dis­ soceanic Cable), August 30— warded to contracts department. rael. puted OT reported by three depart­ Chairman Paul J. Lewis, Secretary Ship heading out to Boston, Mass., SEA-LAND CONSUMER (Seaments. Crewmembers gave vote of Brenda Kamiya, Deck Delegate Elizabeth, N.J., Norfolk, Va. and thanks to galley gang for variety of Roger J. Reinke, Engine Delegate Land Service), August 28—Chair­ Rotterdam, Netherlands. man Amado Abaniel, Secretary food and overall professionalism, Patrick D. McPherson, Steward with special mention to Chief Delegate Roherto Escobar. Chair­ Ray A. Garcia, Educational Direc­ SEA-LAND SPIRIT(Sea-Land Service), August 23—Chairman tor Daniel J. Famenia, Deck Cook Grays for good and tasty man noted payoff scheduled for Delegate Scott Wilson, Engine Howard Gibbs, Secretary Robert August 31. Treasurer announced food and GSU M.K. AbduUa for A. Martinez, Educational Director keeping ship clean. Next port: $400 in ship's fund. Steward holds Delegate Michael Veigel, Steward Delegate Louella M. Sproul. Sonny R. Acosta, Deck Delegate Femdale. another $25 for upcoming bar­ Chairman thanked crewmembers Theodore Doi, Steward Delegate becue expenses. Suggestion to SEA-LAND EXPRESS (Seafor smooth voyage and electrician raise maintenance and cute to $50 Arthur Medeiros. Chairman Land Service), July 24—Chairman will be forwarded to contracts for performing necessary repairs. reported payoff in Long Beach, Ernest Duhon, Secretary G. He advised departments to be department for consideration. Calif, on August 26. Secretary Bryant Jr., Educational Director safety conscious at all times and to stressed importance of donating to Archie Bell, Deck Delegate Larry LONG LINES (Transoceanic check Seafarers LOG for schedule SPAD to supfiort maritime in­ Cable), August 23—Chairman L. Long, Engine Delegate of upgrading courses. No beefs or dustry. Educational director em­ Helary Domhrowski, Secretary D. disputed OT reported in all depart­ Richard H. Surrick, Steward phasized training and upgrading at Coliison, Educational Director Delegate Frank Sison. Chairman ments. Vote of thanks given to Lundeberg School. No beefs or dis­ reported receipt of work rales for Juanito Dansalan, Deck Delegate steward department for job well puted OT reported in all three steward department. He reminded Eddie Morre, Engine Delegate done. Next,port: Honolulu. departments. Vote of thanks given crewmembers to sign crew list and Mike Las Dulce, Steward SEA-LAND LIBERATOR (Sea^ to steward department for fine job. repair form. Secretary discussed Delegate William Smith. Educa­ van services. Educational director tional director reminded crewmem­ Land Service), August 28—Chair­ man Joel G. Miller, Secretary G.F. requested all crewmembers leaving bers to upgrade their skills at Paul Thomas, Educational Director ship to strip bunks and clean rooms Hall Center. Treasurer announced B#?00#fS/74/VGE(10M), Sep­ Austin Horn. Secretary noted $600 in ship's fiind. No beefs or for next person. Movie fund con­ tember 10—Chairman Bob Pagan, problem with some food from sup­ Secretary John Hanrahan, Educa­ disputed OT reported by all three tains $600. Some disputed OT plier. Believes it can be taken care reported in steward department. No department delegates. New tional Director Thomas Woemer, of without too much trouble. eyewash station now aboard ship b^fs or disputed OT reported by Deck Delegate L. Jacobs, Engine and first aid kits placed in different Educational director recommends deck or engine department Delegate A. Nasser, Steward to crewmembers to take time to go locations. New crew lounge furni­ delegates. Request made to have Delegate Jimmy L. Williams. payoff on arrival in port regardless ture also aboard. Crewmembers re­ to Lundeberg School. No beefs or Chairman prais^ quality work per­ disputed OT reported in deck, en­ of time. Vote of thanks extended to quested new washers and dryers formed by all crewmembers in gine or steward departments. Sug­ when old ones fail. Next port: steward department forJob well recent butterworthing and tank gestion made to repair or replace Honolulu. done. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. cleaning operations. He informed remote control to crew TV and to crew of in^vidual responsibilities RICHARD G. MATTHIESEN use movie fund to purchase several in trash separation. Educational LNG ARIES(Energy Transporta­ tion Corp.), August 28—Chairman (Ocean Shipholding), August 21— exercise bicycles for crew. Next director reviewed emergency port: Oakland, Calif. Chairman James T. Martin, M. Pereira, Secretary R. Brown, duties with all hands. He also stressed training at Lundeberg School and necessity to obtain new refrigeration endorsements by November 14. Additionally, he said all potential safety hazards are to be reported to educational direc­ tor. Treasurer announced depletion of ship's fund due to purchase of videotapes. Recent contributions raised $1,500 for Cancer Society. Vo beefs or disputed OT report^ >y department delegates. Discus­ sion held on current smoking xjlicy. Clarification may be neces­ sary. Crewmembers put in request "or new washing machine. Vote of 1 hanks given to steward department or clean ship and well-fed crew. Quality, Competence and Pride Aboard Bent The SlU steward department aboard the USNS Silas Bent \s the first in Military Sealift Command, Atlantic history to receive a score of 100 percent in all areas of a rigorous quality assurance inspection last July. "We aboard the Silas Benthave done our very best to represent the SlU and what it stands for in the merchant marine industry—quality, competence and pride," said Ben Henderson, chief steward aboard the vessel, operated by Bay Tankers until last month, when it was turned over to another company for operation. Members of the award-winning steward department are (from left, seated) Henderson, Third Cook Gary Mooney, Chief Cook John Gehring, Cook/Baker Douglas Swets, (from left, standing) SAs Thomas Cyrus, Jack Mohamad, Melvin Rivera and Mohamed Ghaleb. PATRIOT(Vulcan Carriers), Sep­ tember 11-Chairman Ralph W. jibbs. Secret^ Howard G. Wiliams. Educational Director '"rederick C. Harris, Deck Delegate Daniel Gaylor, Engine Delegate Joel L.Spell Jr. Chairman announced Patriot, a tanker, currently under contract to carry grain. Everthing running smoothly. Treasurer announced 800 in ship's fund. No disputed OT reported by department delegates. Recommendation to -••'Xk- :' ;•• 19 Catching Up Chief Steward Edgardo Vaz­ quez (left) and AB Jose Osorio catch up on the latest maritime news in the Seafarers LOG during a union meeting aboard the Sea-Land Expedition. have full dental and optical benefits referred to contracts department at headquarters. Labor Day barbecue was big success, thanks to Steward Williams, Chief Cook Daniel Payne and GSU Julian Mendoza. A.B. Roger E. Pland added to festitivies by play­ ing bagpipes. Next port: Santo Domingo, Nicaragua. SEA-LAND DISCOVERY(SeaLand Service), September 10— Chairman Nels»n Sala, Secretary Jos£ R. Colls, Educational Direc­ tor Thomas I^sco, Deck Delegate Ramon Castro, Engine Delegate Ramon Collazo, Steward Delegate Jorge Salazar. Chairman an­ nounced payoff as soon as patrol­ man comes on board. Secretary stated 31 Cuban refugees picked up so far off Cuban coast and returned to Coast Guard at sea. Beef reported in deck department and some disputed OT in engine department. Ship sailing to Elizabeth, N.J., San Juan, P.R. and Rio Haina, Dominican Republic. SEA-LAND EXPRESS (SeaLand Service), September 5Chairman John B. Lundborg, Secretary G. Bryant Jr., Educa­ tional Director Archie Bell, Deck Delegate Dennis Brown, Engine Delegate Richard H. Surrick, Steward Delegate Frank Sison. Chairman reported pretty good trip with everyone worlang well together. Two-week shipyard period expected some time in January. Educational director urged crewmembers to upgrade at Paul Hall Center and donate to SPAD. Beef brought up in deck department and some disputed OT reported in steward department to be taken up with boarding patrol­ man at payoff. Vote of thanks given to steward department for good food and job well done. Those getting off ship reminded to clean room for next person joining vessel and return room keys. Smokers also asked to empty ashtrays. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. SEA-LAND INDEPENDENCE Sea-Land Service), September 12—Chairman Stephen Rasmussen, Secretary Nancy Heyden, Vocational Director Kashmir Singh, Deck Delegate George ries. Steward Delegate Daniel ^axie Sr. Chairman thanked deck and steward departments for fine obs. His shipboard time is up and le will be getting off in Oakland, Calif. Educational director urged crewmembers to upgrade at Piney ^oint and contribute to SPAD. reasurer announced money in ship's fund spent on movies in Caohsiung, Taiwan. No beefs or disputed OT reported by depart­ ment delegates. Clarification reuested on renewal of z-cards and telephone number in Long Beach, Calif, for sailing board. Crewmem)ers thanked company for new VCR. Ship sailing to Long Beach; Oakland; Dutch Harbor, Alaska, and Tokyo, Japan. I- •• • 3!: . �ZO H0KMBER1994 SEAFAREBSLOG AHemate SiduAar^Bp Whmer Know Your Rights Auttouttcedby W^fare Plan PAYMENT OF MONIES. FINANCIAL REPORTS. The constitution of the SIU At­ No monies are to be paid to anyone lantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland in any official capacity in the SIU Waters District makes specific unless an official uniion receipt is Voltaire Villanueva graduated provision for safeguarding the given for same. Under no cir­ Each May, the Seafarers Wel­ from Philip and Sala Burton membership's money and union cumstances should any member fare Plan awards seven scholar­ Academic High School (San finances. The constitution re­ lay any money for any reason unships to three Seafarers and four Francisco) in 1994. President o quires a detailed audit by certified ess he is given such receipt. In the dependents of Seafarers. the student body, he also was ex public accountants every year, event anyone attempts to r^uire One of the students selected tensively involved in other schoo which is to be submitted to the any such payment be made without this year for a four-year, $15,000 activities, including photog membership by the secretary- supplying a receipt, or if a member scholarship was unable to take rapher for the school yearboo treasurer. A yearly finance commit­ is requir^ to make a payment and advantage of the award; there­ and photographer and editor for tee of rank-and-file members, is given an official receipt, but feels fore, it was given to one of the the school newspaper. He also elected by the membership, each that he or she should not have been previously selected alternates— helped coach the junior varsity year examines the finances of the required to make such payment, Voltaire A. Villanueva. baseball team and was a French union and reports folly their find­ this should immediately be Voltaire, 17, is a full-time, firstforeign-exchange student. He is ings and recommendations. Mem­ reported to union headquarters. year student enrolled in the considered by many of his bers of this committee may make Bachelor of Arts program in radioCONSTITUTIONAL teachers as a bom leader, with an dissenting reports, specific recom­ RIGHTS AND OBLIGA­ television broadcasting at San eagerness to leam and improve mendations and separate findings. TIONS. Copies of the SIU con­ Francisco State University. He also TRUST FUNDS. All trust stitution are available in all union himself and his community. plans to enter the history degree funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, halls. All members should obtain Voltaire is the son of Nellie course of study in order to become Voltaire A. Villanueva Lakes and Inland Waters District copies of this constitution so as to and Ernesto Villanueva. Vil­ a high school history teacher. are administered in accordance familiarize themselves with its like my sister, about what I have After helping tutor his lanueva has been an SIU member with the provisions of various contents. Any time a member feels younger sister in various subjects learned . . Teaching someone since 1969, sailing deep sea, most trust fond agreements. All these any other member or officer is at­ at school, Voltaire discovered the what I knew [that] they didn'tknow recently aboard the President agreements specify that the trus­ tempting to deprive him or her of power of teaching. "I felt that I gave me a great feeling," he said in Washington, operated by tees in charge of these funds shall any constitutional right or obliga­ needed to educate other people. his scholarship application. American President Lines. equally consist of union and tion by any methods, such as deal­ management representatives and ing with charges, trials, etc., as well their alternates. All expenditures as all other details, the member so and disbursement^ of trust funds affected should immediately notify are made only upon approval by headquarters. a majority of die trustees. All trust EQUAL RIGHTS. All mem­ fond financial records are avail­ bers are guaranteed equal rights able at the headquarters of the Five months may seem like a in employment and as members various trust funds. long time from now, but five of the SIU. These rights are clear­ SHIPPING RIGHTS. A months is really not all that much ly set forth in the SIU constitution member's shipping rights and time when it comes to completing and in the contracts which the seniority are protected exclusivea scholarship application for one union has negotiated with the y by contracts between the union of seven awards to be given to employers. Consequently, no and the employers. Members member may be discriminated three Seafarers and four depend­ should get to know their shipping ents of SIU members for the 1995 rights. Copies of these contracts against because of race, creed, school year.The deadline for sub­ are posted and available in all color, sex, national or geographic mitting applications is April 15, union halls. If members believe origin. If any member feels that 1995. there have been violations of their he or she is denied theequal rights Of the seven scholarships of­ shipping or seniority rights as con­ to which he or she is entitled, the tain^ in the contracts between the member should notify union fered by the Seafarers Welfare union and the employers, they headquarters. Plan to qualified SIU members should notify the Seafarers Ap and their dependents, three are SEAFARERS POLITICAL leals Board by certified mail, ACTIVITY DONATION — reserved for SIU members (one in return receipt requested. The SPAD. SPAD is a separate the amount of $15,000 for a fouriroper address for this is: segregated fond. Its proce^ are year scholarship to a college or Augustin TeUez, Chairman us^ to further its objects and pur­ university, and two $6,000 twoSeafarers Appeals Board poses including, but not limited to, year scholarships for study at a 5201 Auth Way furthering the political, social and vocational school or community Camp Springs, MD 20746 economic interests of maritime college). The other four scholar­ workers, the preservation and fiirr Full copies of contracts as ships will be awarded to spouses thering of the American merchant refened to are available to members and dependent children of marine with improved employ­ at all times, either by writing diiecdy Seafarers. Each of these four is a to the union or to the Seafarers Ap­ ment opportunities for seamen and $15,000 stipend for study at a peals BoaixL boatmen and the advancement of four-year college or university. trade union concepts. In connection CONTRACTS. Copies of all • college transcripts, Seafarers Welfare Plan on or The application form is not SIU contracts are available in all with such objects, SPAD supports • letters of reference and before ^rU 15,1995. difficult to complete; however, it arid contributes to political can­ • SAT or ACT results. Eligibility requirements for SIU halls. These contracts specify didates for elective office. All con­ will take some time to gather all the wages and conditions under Schools often are very slow in Seafarers and their spouses and the other necessary paperwork which an SIU member works and tributions are vo untary. No that must be included with the handling transcript requests, so unmarried dependents are spelled ives aboard a ship or boat Mem­ contribution may be solicited or application package. This in­ applicants must be sure to submit out in a booklet which contains an bers should know their contract received because of force, job dis­ cludes: their requests to those institutions application form. To receive rights, as well as their obligations, crimination, financial reprisal, or • an autobiographical state­ as soon as possible. Applicants booklet, fill out the coupon below such as filing for overtime (OT) on threat of such conduct, or as a con­ ment, also should sign up for the ACT and mail it to the Seafarers Wel­ the proper sheets and in the proper dition of membership in the union or SAT exam and start thinking fare Plan. • photograph, manner. If, at any time, a member or of employment. If a contribution With the cost of a college believes that an SIU patrolman or is made by reason of the above • certified copy of birth cer­ about whom to ask to write letters tificate, of recommendation for them. education rising each year, the other union official fails to protect improper conduct, the member Once all the paperwork has SIU scholarship is one SIU their contractual rights properly, he should notify the Seafarers Interna­ • high school transcript and certification of graduation or offi­ been completed and the applica­ benefit that can help members or she should contact the nearest tional Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of thecontribu­ cial copy of high school tion form is filled out, the entire and their families realize then- SIU port agent. tion for investigation and aj^ equivalency scores. package should be sent to the educational goals. EDITORIAL POLICY — propriate action and refund, if THE SEAFARERS LOG. The involuntary. A member should lease send me the 1995 SIU Scholarship Program booklet which contains eligibility 1 Seafarers LOG traditionally has support SPAD to protect and fur­ information, procedures for applying and the application form. refraned from publishing any ar­ ther his or her economic, political ticle serving the political purposes and social interests, and American Name of any individual in the union, of­ trade union concepts. ficer or member. It also has refrained I Book Number If at any time a member feels Tom publishing articles deemed I that any of the above rights have harmful to the union or its collective I Address been violated, or that he or she has membership. This established been denied the constitutional x)licy has beenreaffirmed by memj City, State, Zip Code. right of access to union records of )ership action at the September information, the member should 960 meetings in all constitutional I Telephone Number _ immediately notify SIU President jorts. The responsibility for Michael Sacco at headquarters Seafarers LOG policy is vested in • This application Is for: • Self D Dependent an ^itorial board which consists of jy certified mail, return receipt the executive board of the union. requested. The address is: If for dependent, state relationship to SIU member Michael Sacco, President ' Tie executive board may delegate, Seafarers International Union rom among its ranks, one in­ Mail this completed form to Scholarship Program, Seafarers Welfare Plan, 5201 Auth Way dividual to cany out this respon­ 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. 11/94 sibility. Camp Springs, MD 20746. L 'J Scholarship Applicants Have Five Months Left to Prepare ,'. }•: •'.;.vVa.;.,.r',c ,:.-;t. :"K P V -V--' �NOVEMBER 1994 SEJ^MERSLOG —TT-T:——';—r—= >i Final Departures DEEP SEA FRANK ALAMEIDA Pensioner Frank Alameida, 79, passed away July 5. A native of Hawaii, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1946, before that union merged with the SIU's Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and In­ land Waters District (AGLIWD) in 1981. Brother Alameida resided in San Mateo, Calif, and began receiv ing his pension in April 1975. JULIAN A. BULLAND Pensioner Julian A. Bulland, 89, died August 2. Bom in the Philip­ pine Islands, he began sailing with the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1944, before that union merged with the AGLIWD. Brother Bul­ land retired in March 1977. JOSEPH L. CIUPAK Joseph L. Ciupak, 38, passed away Au^st20. A native of Michigan, he joined the SIU in 1987 in the port of Honolulu. Brother Ciupak sailed aboard American Hawaii Cruise vessels as a member of the steward depart­ ment. LLEWELLYN CUDWORTH DANIELS Llewellyn Cudworth Daniels, 61, died August 20. Bom in North Carolina, he joined the Seafarers in 1953 in the port of New York. Brother Daniels sailed in the en­ gine department. LAWRENCE EILAND Pensioner Lawrence Eiland, 84, died June 8. He began his seafaring career with the SIU in 1947 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Brother Eiland shipped out of the New Orleans hall and sailed in the engine depart­ ment. Bom in Clanton, Ala., he began receiving his pension in Sep­ tember 1970. MOHAMMED ELALIKHIDR Mohammed Elalikhidr, 47, passed away August 7. A native of Maryland, he sailed with the SIU from 1966 through 1991 as a mem­ ber of the steward department. Brother Elalikhidr last sailed aboard Interocean Management and OMI vessels. agent, handling beefs and provid­ ing union services to seamen employed on MSC vessels. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to 1946, Brother Grier retired in Febmary 1989. IRVING L. GORDON Pensioner Irving L. Gordon, 94, passed away May 9. Bom in Il­ linois, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1945, before that union merged with the AGLIWD. He served in the U.S. military from 1942 to 1945. Brother Gordon retired in June 1967. RAFAEL T. IBALAUD Pensioner Rafael T. Ibalaud, 73, passed away August 10. Bom in Puer­ to Rico, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards before that union merged with the AGLIWD. Brother Ibalaud worked in the steward depart­ ment as a food preparer on American President Lines ves­ sels. Brother Ibalaud retired in July 1974. WILLIAM JONES William Jones, 53, died June 20. Brother Jones joined the Seafarers in 1966 in the port of New Orleans. He sailed in the engine dqiartment. BIN H. LEW Pensioner Bin H. Lew, 82, passed away July 4. A native of China, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1957, before that union merged with the AGLIWD. Brother Lew retired in November 1975. GRANT MARZETT Pensioner Grant Marzett, 64, died September 14. Born in Alabama, he joined the union m 1951. Brother Marzett sailed in the steward depart­ ment and upgraded to chief steward. He also completed the steward recertification program in 1984 at the Lundeberg School. Brother Marzett retired in Novem­ ber 1991. ANDREW LEVI MITCHELL JR. Pensioner Andrew Levi Mitchell Jr., 88, died May 15. A native of Texas, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1943 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the AGLIWD. He retired in March 1970. JOHN ELWICK Pensioner John Elwick, 78, died May 5. He joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards, before that union merged with the AGLIWD. Brother Elwick retired in Septem­ ber 1974. EIEINRICHM. MOOSLEITNER GEORGE THOMAS GRIER Pensioner George Thomas Grier, 71, died July 14. During 20 years of ship­ ping on Military Sealift Com­ mand (MSC), Pacific Fleet vessels, he was instmmental in organizing the Military Sea Transport Union (MSTU), the foremnner of the SIU's Govemment Services Division. In 1964, Brother Grier came ashore to work as a business Pensioner Heinrich M. Moosleitner, 59, passed away Septem­ ber 11. Brother Moos­ leitner joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1962 the port of San rancisco, before that union merged with the AGLIWD. He Irst sailed aboard the SS Monterey. Bom in West Germany, became a naturalized U.S.—" citizen. Brother Moosleitner wa? sailing as chief steward when he retired in July 1993. •v'y.*'^>>'* . Philippine Islands, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards, before that union merged with the AGLIWD. Brother Tagaca retired in January 1974. WILFORD H. MOTLEY Pensioner Wilford H. Motley, 80, died August 21. Bom in Ok­ lahoma, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards, before that union mferged with the AGLIWD. Brother Motley retired in Decem­ ber 1972. DAVID A. NORRIS Pensioner David A. Norris, 74, passed away August 22. Bom in Alabama, he began sailing with the SIU in 1947 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Brother Norris sailed in the engine department and upgraded to QMED at the LUndeberg School. He served in the U.S. Army from 1943 to 1946. Brother Norris retired in April 1988. PAULREISSNER Pensioner Paul Reissner, 84, died August 2. A native of Ger­ many, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1956, before that union merged with the AGLIWD. Brother Reissner retired in June 1969. WILLIAM T. RODEGEB William T. Rodegeb, 23, passed away June 19. Bom in San Fran­ cisco, he joined the Seafarers in 1991. Brother Rodegeb sailed as a general utility aboard American Hawaii Cmise vessels. GEORGE G. SCHELLMANN Pensioner George G. Schellmann, 94, died November 28, 1993. Bom in Germany, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards, before that union merged with the AGLIWD. Brother Schellmann retired in July 1969. WALTER L. SEDEJ Pensioner Walter L. Sedej, 84, passed away July 30 in his native city of Trieste, Italy. Brother Sedej began sailing with the union in 1961 in the port of San Francisco and became a natural­ ized U.S. citizen. He sailed in the engine department. In a letter from a friend, informing the union of his lassing, it was noted that Brother Sedej was very proud of two things—the U.S. citizenship he gained while sailing, and the fact that he was a member of the SIU. He retired in May 1976. CHADWICK TARKENTON Pensioner Chadwick Tarkenton, 79, passed away September 18. A native of North Carolina, he joined the SIU in 1964 in the port of Nor­ folk, Va. Brother Taikenton sailed in the deck department He served in the U.S. Navy in the 1940s. Brother Tarkenton retiied in July 1980. JERRY JEROME THOMPSON Jerry Jerome Thompson, 44, died July 21. Bom in North Carolina, he signed on with the Seafarers in 1971 in the port of New York after completing the Lundeberg School's training course for entry level seamen. Brother Thompson sailed in the engine department. MELVIN WARE Pensioner Melvin Ware, 70, died August 17. A native of Texas, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards, before that union merged with the AGLIWD. Brother Ware retired in August 1973. INLAND RADFORD W.EQUILS Pensioner Radford W. Equils, 80, died Septem­ ber 1. A na­ tive of North Carolina, he joined the union in 1961 in the port of Norfolk, Va. He last sailed as a tug engineer. Boatman Equils retired in May 1974. GEORGE CLIFTON ORFIELD Pensioner George Clifton Orfield, 83, passed away September 17. Bom in Richmond, Va., he joined the Seafarers in 1973 in the port of Norfolk, Va., sailing as a cook on the tug Remus (Allied Towing). Boatman Orfield worked for Allied Towing from 1974 to 1977. He retired in July 1983. LON O. OUSLEY Lon O. Ousley, 59, died September 8. Bom in Oklahoma, he began sailing with the Seafarers in 1973 in the port of St. Louis. He sailed in both the engine and deck depart­ ments. Boatman Ousley upgraded at the Lundeberg School. ALBERT P. PETERSEN Pensioner Al­ bert P. Peter­ sen, 72, passed away September 1. A native of Brooklyn, N.Y., he joined the SIU in 1973 in the )ort of Norfolk, Va. Boatman 'etersen sailed in the engine depart­ ment. He served in the U.S. Navy fixjm 1941 to 1947. Boatman Peter­ sen retired in April 1987. JOHNC.STEEBER John C. Steeber, 66, passed away July 8. Bom in New Jer­ sey, he joined the Seafarers in 1945 in the port of Mobile, Ala. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Steeber upgraded at the undeberg School. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1950 to 1954. HOWARD F. SNYDER SR. Pensioner Howard F. Snyder Sr., 90, died Sep­ tember 26. Bom in Maryland, he joined the union in 1956 in the port of Baltimore. He sailed as a barge­ PEDROP.TAGACA Pensioner Pedro P. Tagaca, 81, died June 23. A native of the .\ V •ir. 21 —^ man. Boatman Snyder retired in January 1969. GREATLAKES MAGNUS B. FROLAND Magnus B. Froland, 89, passed away Augusts. He joined the Seafarers in the port of Detroit and last sailed as a captain. A na­ tive of Bergen, Norway, Brother Froland retired to Sturgeon Bay, Wis. in January 1971. FRIDTJOF "FRITZEL" MARTINUSSEN Pensioner Fridtjof "Fritzel" Martinussen, 77, passed away July 19. He joined the Seafarers in 1946 in the port of Chicago. Among his shipboard as­ signments, Brother Martinussen sailed as an AB on Bob-Lo Co. ves­ sels and American Steamship Co. vessels. He also sailed on the MV Clark-Milwaukee from \96\io 1962. Brother Martinussen was bom in Frovaag, Norway and be­ came a naturalized U.S. citizen. He retired in November 1983. ATLANTIC FISHERMEN JOHNPISCITELLO Pensioner John Piscitellot82,died July 4. He joined the At­ lantic Fishermen's Union, an af­ filiate of the SIU, in the 1940s in Gloucester, Mass., before it merged with the AGLIWD in 1981. He last sailed as a captain and retired in August 1974. DOMENICO SPINOLA Pensioner Domenico Spinola, 84, passed away Aupist20. A native of Milazzo, Sici­ ly, he joined the Atlantic Fishermen's Union in Gloucester, Mass., before it merged with the AGLIWD. Before retiring in March 1973, Brother Spinola sailed as a captain aboard the vessel St. Mary. MCS Official Hamilton Dies at 74 in Seattle Horace "Hamp" Hamilton, 74, passed away Octo­ ber 17 in Seattle. Bom in Dal­ las, Texas, Brother Hamilton began sailing in 1945 as a deck steward. He later served as port agent in Seattle for the Marine Cooks and Stewards, which merged with the SIU in 1978. He worked there until his retirement in 1985. Brother Hamilton leaves his wife, Ida B. "Ann"; a daughter; stepson; four grandchildren; and one great grandchild. �22 NOVEMRER1994 SEAFARERS LOG Lundeberg School Graduating Classes :• '• '• .. .<I...' Pumproom Maintenance—Upgrading graduates of the September 26 Trainee Lifeboat Class 529—Graduating from trainee lifeboat class 529 are pumproom maintenance class are (from left, kneeling) Sheldon Greenberg, Sara Moore, (from left, kneeling) Ben Cusic (instructor), Ctiarles Lowe Jr., Kevin Hindes, James BradleyTwiford, Robert Lee McDonald, (standing) Jeff Stuart, Jeff Morris, Thomas Diviny Taylor Jr., Dwayne Marrero, (standing) Tony Perez, John Kannuck, Fermin Morin, John Jr., Ronald Lukacs, Mark Francois, Rick Metcalf, Ralph Gosnell Jr., Raymond Machaj and Dan Holden (instructor). Gustafson, Decario Harris, Richard Allen and Olando Donadelle Jr. Fireman, Oiler, Watertender—^Working their way up the engine department ratings are (from left. kneeling) Yahya Shamman, William Prince, Roy Robinson Jr., Eric Campbell, Earl Gillespie Jr., Jamie Brown Jr., Gregory Brandani, Daniel Gibtrons, (second row) Jose R. Diaz, Vincent Flores Jr., Kurt Jacobsen, Rotrert Parker, Gregory Howard, Mike Chartren, Kenny Flanagan, Randy Pearson, Douglas Hau, (third row) Steve Biles, John Burress, Theron Bowen, Michael Cobb, Adrian Davis, Anthony Crummell, Michael Dean, Steven Fisher and Jerry Stricklen. Upgraders Lifeboat—Certificates of training were received by ihe September 21 class of upgraders. They are (from left, kneeling) In/in Jones, Fred V. Bautista, Richard Fraser, Ben Cusic (instructor), (standing) Anthony Williams, Darrien Lewis, Erik Washington, Kevin Johnson and James Brown. Maryland Beaches' Sand Restored By the Work of the Long Island Seafarers aboard the dredge Long Island recently helped pump more than one million yards of fill along eight miles of Ocean City, Md. beachfront,.replacing sand lost over the years through erosion and hurricane winds. The Long Island, operated by Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Co., was assigned to the project for 75 days, completing the task in early October. Pumping 15,000 cubic yards of sand a day from the ocean floor to the shore, the dredge's assignments are primarily beach replenishment projects. Seafarers aboard the 1971-built, non-self-propelled, sea-going hopper dredge operate all of the dredging machinery, including drag-arms which are lowered to the bottom. Machinery that mixes the sand to a sand-water slurry and pumping equipment also are operated by Seafarers. Among the eight Seafarers aboard are members of the steward department, who keep the crewmembers replenished. The next project for the 510-foot long, 75-foot beam dredge is restoring ihe sand of the Cape May, N.J. beach. Photos accompanying this article were taken by SIU Nofolk Port Agent Mike Paladino. Pumping 15,000 cubic yards of sand on a daily basis, it took the dredge LongIsland crew two-and-a-half months to restore sand to Maryland beaches. Working long, hard hours, the crewmembers on the Long Island break for lunch. Port Engineer Ray Bamett (left) and Mate Chief Steward Leo Kinnev oreoares a Pictured from left are AB Joe Baricco, AB Thomas Moore, SA Dennis Kennington, Phil Kleinebreil have a few minutes of quiet nutritious mfial fnr tho rro«i nf tho Captain David Ling, AB Bennie Spencer and AB Doug Carson. in the galley before pumping resumes dredge Long te/and. 'i;- �NOVEMBER 1994 SEAFARERS LOG LUHDEBERG SCHOa. Engine UpgnuUng Courses 1994• 1995 mSUUmG OtURSE SCHEDULE The following is the course schedule for classes beginning between late November 1994 and March 1995 at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship located at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. All programs are geared to improve job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. The course schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—^the nation's security. Date of Enrollment Course Tanker Operations January 2 January 30 February 27 Bridge Management January 30 Limited License, Part 1 ,. . January 23 Limited License Part n February 6 Limited License, Part ill i February 20 Able Seaman January 23 Radar January 23 February 27 • Wif •• Celestial Navigation February 13 Sealift Operations &Myiiidsnance January 23 Date of Completion January 27 February 24 March 17 February 10 February 3 February 17 March 3 April 7 February 3 March 10 March 24 February 17 Course Power Plant Maintenance QMED - Any Rating Refrigeration Systems Maintenance ^ Operations Diesel Engine Technology Hydraulics Marine Electrical Maintenance I Marine Electrical Maintenance H Basic Electronics Marine Electronics Technician I Marine Electronics Technician H Welding Course Engine Familiarizataion Di&sel DDE/Limited License Prep Safety Specialty Ceunee Course Date of Enrollment Date of Comidetion Basic/Advanced Fire Fighting November 25 December 9 Course Date of Completion Bosun Recertification Steward Recertification February 20 January 23 March 31 March 6 Stee/anll^igiading Courses Course Date of Enrollment Date of Completion Assistant Cook, Cook and Baker Chief Cook, Chief Steward November 21 November 21 February 10 February 10 (Middle) (Hist) (Street) (Slate) Deep Sea Member D (Zip Code) Date of Birth. (Month/Day/Year) (Area Code) Lakes Member n Date of Enrollment Date of Completion January 30 February 27 March 27 February 10 March 10 April 7 li • -r'y'Sw. Jacksonville, Fla. January 9 Wilmington, Calif. February 13 Brooklyn, N.Y. March 13 For 1994 courses, see page 9 in this edition of the LOG. Date of Completion January 13 February 17 March 17 The following courses are available through the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School. Please contact the admissions office for enrollment information. Course Date of Enrollment Date of Completion GED Preparation Adult Basic Education (ABE) English as a Second Language (ESL) 12 weeks - open-ended admission 6 weeks - open ended admission 6 weeks - open ended admission Session 1 January 30 March 24 Primary language spoken UPGRADING AmHMmN _L February 17 March 31 March 10 ilifirir£ifif»alfiMf ScheAule Date of Enrollment (City) January 9 January 9 February 30 Date of Enrollment RecertHHuaiottPtcgrams Telephone ( Date of Completion 1995ReMgemOon Technician Ccumk Locadon (Last) Date of Enrollment March 13 April 7 February 20 March 24 January 9 February 17 March 13 April 21 January 9 Februarys February 6 March 3 March 31 March 6 March 17 February 20 •"0 f All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. Name Address 23 Inland Waters Member D If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security #_ Book # Seniority ^ Department U.S. Citizens D Yes D No Home Port. Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held •Ves Are you a graduate of the SHLSS trainee program? If yes, class# ^ •Ves Have you attended any SHLSS upgrading courses? If yes, course(s) taken Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? CD Yes [DNO Firefighting: CH Yes CUNO CFR:IZlYes With this application, COPIES of your discharges must be submitted showing suffi­ cient time to qualify yourself for the course(s) requested. You also must submit a COPY of each of the following: the first page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, your clinic card and the front and back of your z-card as well as your Lundeberg School identification card listing the course(s) you have taken and com­ pleted The Admissions Office WILL NOT schedule you until all of the above are received. BEGIN END COURSE DATE DATE LAST VESSEL; Rating; Date On: Date Off:. DNO SIGNATURE. DNO Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. CD No DATE RETURN COMPLETED APPUCATION TO: Lundeberg Upgrading Center, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674. 11/94 '""iirf �SEAijuaxes Volume 56, Number 11 1995 Scholarships There are only five months left to complete and mall in scholarship applications. The submission deadline is April 15, 1995. See page 20 for additional information or an application form. November 1994 Third Generation Seafarer Carries on Legacy SIU Family Proudly Looks on as Mathews Graduates from Training Program grandfather's footsteps, even though they always told me I could do whatever I wanted," the 19-year-old stated. " remember growing up, I would go to the barge and meet my father, and I was really inter­ ested in the work even then. I also was fortunate enough to go on one trip with him. "I'm just attracted to it. The pay is good, I like working with my hands and I like working on anything that floats." Whether or not future generations of the family con­ tinue the Mathews-SIU legacy, Carson^—who is in good health and spends a lot of time fishing and gardening-—concluded that he is thrilled to have set the career precedent for his son and grandson. "I think anyone Tankerman William Mathews Sr. (left) and SIU Retiree Carson Math­ would feel the same way, and William Sr., shown here at work Familiar Trail ews (right) join William Jr. after his recent graduation from the trainee I'm truly proud to see another on a barge In 1975, says he has member of the family sign on enjoyed working In the Inland Both Carson and William program at Piney Point. with the Seafarers." division. Sr.—a 27-year member of the School. As that was the year the for the members to be proud of." SIU—elected to sail in the inland Pride also was on William division, and William Jr. said he Piney Point complex was first used by the school. Seafarers Sr.'s mind when his son com­ also is interested in inland work. attending classes there also as­ pleted the trainee program. But, "I'm very excited, ready to get out sisted in building the center's like Carson, William Sr. em­ there," he said. "I've always been various facilities. phasized that he never exerted interested in thisline of work, and "I went to [the SIU hall in] pressure on William Jr. to enter I love the water." William Sr., 49, currently is Brooklyn, N.Y. for five days' the maritime field. "It makes me employed by Penn Maritime raining, then spent four-and-a- feel great that he chose this, but and usually works in the Nor­ ^alf weeks at Piney Point," he whatever the kids do, my wife folk, Va. area. He has a simple recalled. "There were a lot of and I support them. We have a explanation for why three good people here. I did some daughter who's a schoolteacher, generations of Mathews, in­ raining and some hard work, and we're happy for her, too." cluding his brother. Jack, have eventually, I drove a carload of Getting Started opted for maritime careers and gUys to Norfolk, and we all When Carson first went to membership in the Seafarers. shipped out a day or two later." He returned to Piney Point work on a tug, he simply was "The union's been very good to us, and I believe we've been or upgrading courses in '91and searching for a better means to good to the SIU as well," he '92 and was stunned by the support his family. He had been said. "It's a great feeling to have jrogress of both the curriculum working seasonally in agriculture This 1981 photo shows William Sr. providing a sampling of maritime three generations in the SIU." and the facilities. "The whole and as a hunting guide; in life to William Jr., who was 6 years old when he visited the vessel. For William Sr., the road to system here is beautiful, there's maritime, he found steady Piney Point is a familiar one. He no end to how far anyone can employment with much better completed his seafaring training go," he observed. "The instruc- pay. Similarly, William Sr. got a in 1967 at the Lundeberg :ors are first-rate. It's something sampling of other employment The National Center for ing at the time was found near opportunities before he settled Missing and Exploited her car, but Mary Opitz has on the waterways. He worked in Children has asked the not been seen since. The a textile mill for four years Seafarers International photo below has been age-en­ before approaching some finends who were SIU members about Union to assist them in locat­ hanced to show how the 30ing Mary Opitz. year-old woman might the possibility of shipping. She was last seen on appear today. He started in the deep sea division, with two voyages to January 16, 1981 leaving the At the time of her disap­ Vietnam during the war. "Both Edison Mall in Fort Myers, pearance when she was 17 ships had good crews, but Viet­ Fla., heading out to the parking years old, the brown-haired, lot. A package she was carry- hazel-eyed Mary Opitz was 5 nam was bad," he recdled. After earning a tankerman's ft 5 in. tall and weighed 105 ticket, William Sr. found the pounds. She had braces on her duties and scheduUng of the in­ teeth and was wearing two land division more to his liking, gold bracelets and a gold neck­ and he's been there ever since, lace with a charm. with "absolutely no regrets. I've been a tankerman since '69 and Anyone having informa­ I've pumped a lot of products, tion on the whereabouts of from Bangor, Maine to Mary Opitz should contact Beaumont, Texas. Acids, oil, the National Center for Miss­ molasses—you name it, I've ing and Exploited Children at pumped it." (800) 843-5678 or the Miss­ For William Jr., the decision ing Persons Unit of the Lee with a background like this, It's no wonder William Jr. Is ready to work to take up inland division work County (Fla.) Sheriff s office Mary OpItz as she Is believed on tugs, in this photo, he Is 8 and having fun on his first boat, on was easy. "I always wanted to to look at age 30. at (813) 335-9229. Currituck Sound In North Carolina. follow in my father's and More than four decades after he joined the Seafarers, Carson Williams Mathews recently was on hand to see his grandson William Mathews Jr., graduate from the trainee pro­ gram at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Educa­ tion in Piney Point, Md. Also in attendance with Car­ son this past September was his son, Tankerman William Mathews Sr., rounding out three generations of SIU mem­ bers in the Mathews family. "I'm proud of them both, really proud," said 78-year-old Carson Mathews, who sailed in the deck and engine depart­ ments in the inland division and who retired in 1981. "I'm glad they followed in my footsteps, but they did it on their own." Help Locate This Missing Person -*v � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 1990-1999 Description An account of the resource Volumes LII-LXI Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993; Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource November 1994 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES ARA AND KEYSTONE SIGN PACT IN STRIKE PRECEDING DEAL, SIU AIDED PICKETING SEAFARERS BACK ISRAELI BROTHERS MARITIME BILL STYMIED IN SENATE CLINTON TO BACK U.S. SHIP BILL IN ‘95 SEAFARERS HAILED FOR HAITI ROLE SEAMEN REPORT SMOOTH OPERATIONS, CLOSE COOPERATION WITH U.S. MILITARY PRO-MARITIME CANDIDATES ASSISTED BY SIU MEMBERS SENATE FAILS TO VOTE ON INLAND SAFETY BILL HOST OF MARITIME MEASURES LEFT UNPASSED, ISSUES WILL BE RAISED IN NEXT CONGRESS RRF DROPS TO 89 SHIPS HOUSTON FLOOD HITS SEAFARERS RESPONDER BOATS ASSIST IN SAN JACINTO OIL SPILL PAUL HALL CENTER INTRODUCES TANKER SAFETY CLASS SEAFARERS AID GULF BUILDUP IRAQI TROOPS BACK OFF AS U.S. REENTER GULF PAUL HALL CENTER ADDS NEW VESSEL TO SCHOOL’S HANDS-ON TRAINING FLEET TWO ADDITIONAL SIU HALLS TO HOST REFRIGERATION CLASSES SEAFARERS STRESS CLASS PREPARATION INTERESTING WORK PERFORMED BY SIU CREW ABOARD RESEARCH VESSEL SEAFARERS FAMILY PHOTOS 353 FLEEING YEMENIS SAVED BY MV ADVANTAGE HARVEST GRAINS KEEP ORGULF TUGS BUSY SEA TRIALS READY CAPE RACE FOR RRF OPERATIONAL STATUS ALTERNATE SCHOLARSHIP WINNER ANNOUNCED BY WELFARE PLAN THIRD GENERATION SEAFARER CARRIES ON LEGACY Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 11/01/1994 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 56, No. 11 1994 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/1d7486cb88f463857e3bf8a001077b75.PDF 752bd9b12bfbf19cb16c20d5511706f5 PDF Text Text C-iv:-i •-.*- .'t ;•, • -t-'fc'.'iiiif, J-•4ai>::'i-:i:i'- -'•- -'V/ 8 • OFFICIAL ORGAN OF THE SEAFARERS INTiRNATIONAL UNION • ATLANTIC GULF, UKES AND INUND WATERS DlSTRia • AFKIO Volume 56, Number 10 . •> v- October 1994 Farm Clique Blocks 3rcot/i>r> US Ship Biii Debate Opponents Itse Rare Gimmick To Provont Sonato Action •-« -H^CJ i/) rn .-ir* a -H t/> ^3> Xi-i H—« HO ;rnu>'-«;o •-« -iDD 71H-T> I t-* > CO Pena Vows to Continue Fight Sec'y of Transportation Pena n • Secretary said the administration would continue its push and urged the audience of shipping com­ pany representatives, maritime union officios, congressional staff members, admiralty lawyers and other industry professionals, to keep driving for the bill. He promised to do his part and called on all supporters of a strong U.S. shipping capability to "redouble" their efforts to secure the legislation. Npting that the^ bill before the Senate (which had passed the House in early August by a vote of 294-122) was the result of cooperative work Continued on page 3 O T) i-( I /» Page 3 On the heels of a maneuver by farm-state senators to block a vote in the Senate on a bill promoting U.S. shipping, Secretary of Transpor­ tation Federico Pena pledged to persevere until the legislation was enacted. "We will fight to bring the Maritime Security and Trade Act to a vote this year until the last gavel falls," he said to a September 28 meeting of the Propeller Club in Washington, D.C. He said the administration "led by Bill Clinton himself has worked hard and fought hard to revitalize American maritime industries, from shipbuilding to shipping. The Transportation :r.: Lnz: 3"^ os: ry> Q"^ Tl's> o 3 O. • • •••'i 21 '"^t V,' • y'B'' •Ji" Ji: •% ^'0 • M •. vfc? - . Si •1: �: - 2 SEAFARERS LOG President's Report It's Time for Change OCTORER1994 House Enacts Package Of Maritime Measuns By Vote of 402-13, Reps. Adopt Inland Safety, A very significant step was taken last month by the House Mer­ chant Marine and Fisheries Committee when it enacted a comprehen­ sive safety program for marine transport on the nation's rivers and coasts. A day after the com­ mittee acted on the bill, the Towing Vessel Navigational Safety Act was accepted by the full House where it was attached to a bill which provides Coast Guard funding for the next two Included in one piece of legis­ the Towing Vessel Navigational ways and for those who live and years. This month, it will be up to the Senate to lation passed by the House of Safety Act of 1994, had been work along their shores," he said pass similar legislation. It would demonstrate good judgment on the part Representatives on September 22 reported out of committee the day in summary. House Merchant Marine and were a number of measures that before, September 21 (see article of the Senate to go on record supporting safer in­ Fisheries Committee Ranking had been sought by American below). land waterways. A rash of accidents involving tug­ Minority Member Jack Fields (Rmaritime interests. The comprehensive provision Michael Sacco boats has put the public spotlight on the deficiencies Texas) cited the spate of inland H.R. 4422, the Coast Guard requires towing vessels to have a — of domestic waterbome transportation. accidents that had been reported Authorization Act of 1994, radar system, an electronic posi­ Until the Mauvilla rammed a i-ailroad bridge on September 22, 1993, causing Amtrak's Sunset Limited to plunge into a river, leaving authorizes $3.2 billion for the tion-fixing device, a sonic depth in the press in the last two years. 47 passengers dead, the public was unaware that some 5,000 towing agency's expenditures over the finder, a compass or swing meter, "The increased safety require­ vessels operating on American waters do not have to use radar, carry a next two years. When the bill adequate towing wire and as­ ments contained in this act will compass or even have charts aboard that provide valuable details on came up on the floor, the leader­ sociated equipment and up-to- not only protect innocent in­ waterway conditions. dividuals, but will also help keep ship of the House Merchant date navigational charts. A Coast Guard study on towing vessel manning, conducted in the Marine and Fisheries Committee, It also establishes a licensing our nation's ports free of obstruc­ wake of the Mauvilla tragedy and recently submitt^ to Congress, in­ which has jurisdiction over Coast program for towing vessel tions and open to conunerce," he dicates that human error is the main cause of accidents involving Guard and maritime matters, operators and pilots and requires noted. those kind of boats. The SIU also has studied Coast Guard data on added as amendments several all unlicensed towboat personnel marine casualties. The union's analysis of the Coast Guard data comes measures that had formerly been to hold merchant marine docu­ Regulatory Reform to the same conclusion. From the late 1970s to the early 1990s, the Title VII of the bill (formerly before Congress as independent ments. Protection for boatmen Coast Guard's casualty statistics indicate that on towing vessels, H.R. 4959) essentially provides who publicly cite safety hazards bills, including the Towing Ves­ human factors are the primary reason for 58 percent of all accidents. for measures that will make the is incorporated in the legislation. sel Navigational Safety Act. (It should be noted that among the things the Coast Guard calls Coast Guard regulations that for violators of inland As passed by the House, H.R. Penalties "human factors" are the following categories—bypassing of available govern ships built in U.S. yards safety laws and regulations have 4422: safety devices, inattention to duty, intoxication by either alcohol or and U.S.-flag ships similar to in­ been increased under the bill. Ad­ • strengthens safety proce­ drugs, taking calculated risks, lack of training, lack of experience, ternational standards. ditionally, Title VI proposes that dures in the inland marine sector carelessness, making an error in judgment, operator error, fatigue,' This legislation has long been • streamlines U.S. Coast within a year the Coast Guard stress, physical or mental impairment, inadequate supervision, failing Guard requirements for U.S.-flag develop a model vessel inspec­ called for by U.S.-flag ship to comply with rules and regulations.) The union also found in its study of the Coast Guard casualty data vessels and makes the agency's tion program to submit to Con­ operators who view it as a prereq­ uisite to being competitive in the regulations more compatible with gress for their approval. that on deep sea vessels and Great Lakes ships, the number of acci­ dents primarily caused by human factors stood at 31 percent and 36 In moving the amendment, world shipping and shipbuilding international standards percent, respectively. These statistics are striking in their difference • institutes policies that will Gerry E. Studds (D-Mass.), who industries. fixrm the number of accidents primarily caused by human factors on Legislators, in crafting the bill, encourage development of an chairs the House Merchant towing vessels. American-flag cmise ship fleet Marine and Fisheries Committee, had attempted to address the con­ The towing safety bill includes many steps to see to it that the • ends foreign domination of noted the appropriateness of pas­ cerns of ship operators while human beings involved in the operation of an inland vessel are proper­ the cruise-to-nowhere industry sage of an inland safety bill. balancing safety needs. ly qualified for the job. For Seafarers who earn their living working The bill allows U.S. ship "This issue comes before the • increases recreational boat­ aboard towing vessels, this is welcome news. Nothing is as important ing safety House on the one-year anniver­ operators to voluntarily comply as ensuring that the safety of fellow crewmembers is safeguarded. • requires that Coast Guard sary of the tragic Amtrak accident with the International Safety The inland safety bill contains provisions that are directed at in­ vessels be repaired in American in Mobile, Ala. That accident, Management (ISM) Code of creasing the proficiency standards of the men and women who work shipyards and which resulted in the deaths of 47 Chapter IX Of the Annex to the on towing vessels. First, the bill requires that the Coast Guard estab­ • provides veterans benefits to citizens, was caused by the col­ International Convention for the lish licensing requirements for masters and mates in the towing in­ dustry. To earn a masters license, individuals will have to demonstrate WWII merchant mariners who lision of an uninspected, ill- Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), liave not been eligible for benefits equipped, and poorly operated 1974. It also authorizes the Coast an ability to operate a towing vessel and to use a radar system, towing vessel with a railroad Guard to accept ship inspection up to now. electronic position-fixing devices, depth finders, navigational charts bridge," said Studds. reports issued from organizations and other equipment. Towing Safety "The adoption of these new deemed qualified to do so by the Second, for those crewmembers who are not licensed as masters Title VI of H.R. 4422, requirements will ensure greater and mates, the bill mandates that they hold Coast Guard merchant Continued on page 6 originally known as H.R. 3282, safety for the users of our water­ mariner documents. To obtain a merchant mariner document, an in­ dividual must take an oath to adhere to all applicable laws, show evidence of a drag-fiee urinalysis test, be subject to a check of the National Driver Register for information on alcohol use, submit to a criminal record check with the FBI and show evidence ofU.S. citizenship or, if not a U.S. citizen, show proof of lawful entry and permanent residence in the United States. The document is valid for five years, after which it must be renewed. It can be revoked or suspended by the Coast Guard. A legislator's last-minute at­ The bill also requires that forwarded to the full House. The The document basically weeds out people in the industry who are a tempt to strike a proposed re­ marine casualties be reported as next day, the House adopted H.R. danger to their fellow crewmembers and the safety of a vessel. From the union's standpoint of protecting the guys on a ship or boat, a docu­ quirement that unlicensed quickly as possible and no later 3282 as an amendment to the ment is an important safety measure. All hands are served by the mer­ matmen be issued merchant than five days from the occur­ Coast Guard Authorization Act of mariner documents by the U.S. rence and prohibits discrimina­ 1994 (H.R. 4422). That bill was chant mariner document reuirement. oast Guard from an inland tion against boatmen who report enacted by a vote of 402 to 13. Having reliable, qualified personnel handling a towing vessel not only safety bill was defeated by a 30 to safety violations or refuse to vio­ is a benefit to those who work on marine equipment. It benefits vessel Spurred by Disaster 5 vote of the House Merchant late safety statutes. The top penal­ operators as well, who are assured that equipment woth of hundreds of Vlarine and Fisheries Committee. ty for violations of the law has Action on the bill took place thousands of dollars is being operated by qualified individuals. The vote, which took place on been changed from $1,000 to exactly one year after 47 people All of the statistics and other data may at times seem complex, but they add up to a very convincing, common-sense conclusion: It is time September 21, nulliUed an $25,000 by the legislation. were killed in an Amtrak train for the towing industry to advance its requirements for vessel personnel. amendment offered by Repre­ derailment near Mobile, Ala.— Studds Substitute Those of us who work on boats and ships know that when 58 percent of sentative W.J. "Billy" Tauzin (Dan accident directly resulting the accidents are being caused by human error, it is time for change. a.) to the Towing Vessel The bill debated by the House from the tug Mauvilla and its We urge the Senate to immediately pass legislation similar to what Navigational Safety Act, known Merchant Marine and Fisheries barge striking a railroad bridge was last adopted by the House and not to wait for another body count as H.R. 3282, that would have Committee was a substitute for and knocking it out of alignment. before passing a bill that already is overdue. exempted deckhands of towing the original H.R. 3282 introduced That particular incident vessels from the merchant by Representative Tauzin. The sparked the inland safety legisla­ mariner document requirement substitute, proposed by Commit­ tion. Giving further impetus to the October 1994 Volume 56. Number 10 outlined in the bill. tee Chairman Gerry E. Studds, bill was a report issued after the In addition to the provision added the sections on protecting accident by the National that boatmen hold merchant mariners who refuse to violate Transportation Safety Board mariner documents (known as z- safety laws, strengthening the (NTSB)—an independent federal The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 0160-2047) is published cards), the legislation calls for manning and licensing require­ agency charged with investigat­ monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District; AFL-CIO; 5201 navigational safety equipment to ments, increasing civil penalties, ing accidents on America's be used on inland tugsand tows developing a model vessel com­ waterways, pipelines, highways, Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) including radar, electronic posi­ pany inspection plan and mandat­ railroads and airlines—that con­ 899-0675. Second-class postage paid at MSG Prince Geor­ tion-fixing devices, depth finders, ing that crewmembers on towing cluded the crew of tht Mauvilla ges, MD 20790-9998 and at additional mailing offices. compasses or swing meters and vessels and offshore supply boats lacked proper training and the tug POSTMASTER: Send ad^ss changes to the Seafarers up-to-date charts. It directs the hold z-cards. carried no navigational equip­ LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746, The legislation, complete with ment, factors which contributed !oast Guard to overhaul manning Managing Editor, Daniel Duncan; Associate Editors, Jor­ and licensing requirements and the merchant mariner document to the accident. dan Biscardo and Corrina Christensen; Associate evelop a model vessel company requirement, was adopted by the Even as the NTSB was conEditor/Production, Deborah A. Hirtes; Art, Bill Brower; inspection program to submit to House Merchant Marine and Continued on page II Administrative Support, Jeanne Textor. Fisheries Conunittee and it was Congress within a year. Regulatory Reform, Aid to U.S. Cruise Sector Panel Backs Documents for Boatmen Inland Safety Bill Passed, Sent to House Floor ;" s.5j> •v:>:,/ 'r;- -y:• �0enBER1994 SEAFAREKLOS 3 Fam Clique Blocks Debate On Ship Bill Undemocratic Tack Stuns Senate A rarely invoked parliamen­ on the Senate floor, it is likely that tary rule was implemented by a the farm state senators will again group of three farm state senators attempt to subvert debate by to prevent the maritime program using parliamentary trickery. enacted by the House from being Supporters of the legislation, debated on the Senate floor. which passed the House by a vote Using a bizarre technicality in of 294 to 122 on August 2, will the Senate rules. Senator Larry have to muster at least 60 votes in Pressler (R-S.D.) refused to allow order to halt a filibuster by opAPbyTcxldSumtln the Senate Commerce, Science I^nents of the measure. (At press Viewed from across the Cape Fear River in North Carolina, the SlU-crewed Cape Inscription, one of the and Transportation Committee in time, it was estimated that there nation's Ready Reserve Force ships, prepares to take on military cargo destined for Haiti. its September 23 mark-up session were more than 60 supporters of to vote on the bill which would thebiU.) allocate, over the course of 10 'Why Not Vote No?' years, $1 billion raised through a tonnage duty to ensure a U.S.-flag Pressler, whose action was liner capability in foreign com­ mirrored on the floor of the merce and provide aid to Senate by Senators Charles E. American shipyards. Pressler's Grassley (R-Iowa) and Hank tactic even barred the committee Brown (R-Colo.), cited Senate Last month, the Department of from discussing the measure, Rule 26 which prohibits commit­ Defense activated 14 of the which had the support of the tee meetings when the Senate is Maritime Administration's majority of the senators on the in session unless all legislators on Ready Reserve Force (RRF) ves­ panel. the committee agree die meeting sels to support United States can take place. military operations in Haiti. Fight Continues Senator Ernest F. HoUings (DOn September 8, Seafarers Commenting on Pressler's S.C.), who chairs the Commerce received word that 12 vessels stalling gambit, SIU President sought to hold the Committee, were to be crewed. Two more Michael Sacco said, "We're dis­ meeting despite Pressler's ships from the RRF fleet, which appointed in this development maneuver. But HoUings received stay in layup or reduced operating and obviously share the feelings word from the Senate parliamen­ status until activated in times of of the many members of the tarian that only if there was unan­ national emergency, were called Senate who want to see this mat­ imous consent could the meeting up on September 12. Of those, ter debated and put to vote. be held. Pressler refused to lift his SlU-contracted operators were "And, clearly, we are going to objection to the maritime bill assigned eight ships. Those eight continue to fight for the ultimate being discussed by the commit­ were fully crewed by the SIU and passage of a bill that will con­ tee, although he did agree that then activated on September 16. tribute positively to the industry's other non maritime-related items Seafarers crewed the barge health and the nation's interest," scheduled for mark-up could be carrier Cape Mohican, the discussed. Sacco added. auxiliary crane ship Comhusker As only a few weeks remain Both Republican and State and the roll-on/roll-off ships before the Senate session ends in Democratic senators expressed Cape Lobes, Cape Taylor, Cape mid October, the obstructionist frustration at Pressler's move to Texas, Cape Island, Cape In­ ploy by Pressler leaves pro- stifle debate. "Why don't you just trepid and Cape Inscription. maritime legislators with no time vote no?" asked Senator Jay for Commerce Committee action. Rockefeller (D-W.Va.) of Supplying the Troops Those senators now are looking Pressler. Senator Rockefeller said The vessels have supplied to launch an invasion against the power and a group of U.S. for other avenues to bring the many senators had worked "feroU.S. armed forces in their Haitian military forces which in diplomats led by former President legislation to the floor. ciously" to come up with a peacekeeping role in the im­ 1991 overthrew Aristide in a Jimmy Carter. (The other Haitian, Should the maritime bill, Continued on page 8 Lt. Col Michel Francois, repor­ known as H.R. 4003, be debated poverished island nation, where a violent coup. "Anytime anybody is taking tedly is in hiding.) transfer of power from Haitian With the nature of the mission military dictators to democrati­ lives, it's not right. And the way cally elected president Jean- [the Haitian junta] is treating altered but the goal remaining the Bertrand Aristide is scheduled to people is not right," said Bosun same, the RRF ships delivered a Andrew Mack on September 16 wide array of cargo for use by take place by October 15. as he helped prepare the Cape U.S. forces, ranging from ar­ Continued from page I At press time, a spokesperson with anger and dismay about or the Maritime Administration Mohican to sail from Norfolk, mored vehicles to high-tech com­ Washington. It betrays their faith MarAd), which maintains the Va. to Haiti. "There is a job to be munications gear. by jy ie legislators, the administration. and undermines confidence in MarAd reported that all 14 ihip operators and maritime government," he said. RRF ships, said that five of the 14 done, restoring democracy, and vessels were being returned to I'm glad to be in the niidst of it." RRF ships were delivered ahead unions, Peria said the bUl ofiered Pefia noted that the successful llie invasion (though not the of their prescribed activation real reform. "This biU will replace reduced operating status at the U.S. sealift operations which a complex, outmoded system of end of September. Among the entire U.S. military operation) times. began last month for "Operation "We have had excellent operating differentials with a ive are the Cape Lobos and Cape was called off on September 18, Uphold Democracy" in Haiti pro­ following intense negotiations cooperation from the maritime clear, less expensive, cost effec­ Taylor. The RRF activation began on between two of the three Haitian companies who manage these tive, fairly-financed merchant vide "the most graphic possible illustration of why it is crucial that support program." September 8, as the U.S. prepared military officials who are in Continued on page 8 fleet He said the biU would "provide we maintain a viable American the finance and the time for merchant marine, with American American ship operators and mo*- crews, and available for service in chant mariners to gear up and meet national emergencies. foreign competition on even turns." "These highly-skilled crews In short, "it is a down payment come from the tankers and grain on America's long-term and containerships that carriers economic security," Pefia said. serve America's peaceful com­ Referring to a rule imple­ merce. They are jdl volunteers," mented by three farm state he stated. senators (see story on page 3), Pefia said, "... Last week we all Peha said now is the time to saw an obscure parliamentary "mount our own operation to re­ rule used—to delay maritime store democracy—to uphold reform—hoping to destroy this democracy right here on Capitol bill—by keeping it from ever Hill—so that maritime reform is iraphy, Inc. Backus Aerial PI coming to a vote. not blocked by a few obstructing j/Vith the assistance of ships such as the Comhusker Thebarge carrier CapeMohican, operated by Apex "This is the kind of behavior the clear will of an American State, a crane ship, more than 2,000 U.S. troops Marine, is another of the vessels in the Maritime that fills the American people majority." ended without resistance on Haiti. Administration's Ready Reserve Force. Reserve Ships Broken Out •» Eight Haitian-Bound RRF Vessels Crewed by SIU DOT'S Pena Pledges Fight •--y I ^ A' ' . ¥ 'r-'-, •4-?- 'v" • '-.'rt' •"l"' ... •W ¥ �OCTOBER 1994 3 Formw OMI Vessels PunOmsedby Khty RntftsMlps Seafarers will continue to crew three tankers which recently were bought by Kirby Tankships, Inc. from OMI Corp. The vessels—the Champion, Willamette and Leader—v/m be used to transport refined petroleum products primarily between the U.S. Gulf Coast, Florida and the mid-Atlantic states. Kirby Tankships in August recognized the Seafarers International Union as the collective bar­ gaining lCplC»wliiatlVC^V/l. representativeof the gmnillg uiw unlicensed crewmem^ • t 1 Ac it \x/«iG iinHp.r OI^T. The stacks of the Champion, Willamette and Leader now feature the hers aboard the three vrAooAlo vessels. As it was under OMI, ^ f«r oailiiiP wages. for Seafarers sailing on those tankers, all wages, Kirby emblem benefits and conditions will follow the standard tanker agreement ratified by the SIU membership last year. Each of the tankships has a total capacity of 266,00 barrels and a deadweight tonnage of almost 38,000. The names of the vessels are unchanged other than dropping the initials "OMI," and the stacks now feature the Kirby emblem, including a diamond. , ... SIU Patrolman Jack Sheehan recently serviced the Champion while the vessel was lightering in Stapleton, N.Y. "They were carrying diesel fuel to Albany," noted Sheehan, who provided the photos accompanying this article. Everything is going fine with the crew arid the ship. They may have switched to Kirby, but they haven't missed a beat." Kirby Tankships is a wholly owned subsidiary of Kirby Corporation. The parent company, through Kirby Tankships and other subsidiaries, is engaged in operation of vessels on the U.S. in­ land waterways and in the coastwise and foreign trades. sssistssasss' House Passes II.S. Cruise Ship Act Increased employment oppor­ tunities for American merchant mariners moved one step closer as a result of recent passage of an amendment to the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 1994 in the House of Representatives. The 402-13 vote in favor of the maritime legislation will help U.S. ports break into a lucrative cruise ship business presently dominated by foreign vessels. The bill now moves to the Senate for consideration. The U.S. Passenger Vessel Development Act (initially intro­ duced as H.R. 3821) which was added to the Coast Guard spend­ ing bill as an amendment on Sep­ tember 22, outlines how foreign-flag craise ships already sailing from American ports can Km?- acquire and fly the U.S. flag, (^e other part of the legislation, which has not yet passed the House, would change provisions of the Capital Construction Act and Internal Revenue Code to stimulate the growth of a U.S.flag cruise industry.) The bill allows a foreign-flag cruise vessel to be reflagged under U.S. registry and to enter the Jones Act trade (to go from one U.S. port to another) if that ship's operator commits to and begins construction on a cruise ship in a U.S. yard. Under the present Jones Act, foreign-flag vessels are prohibited from carrying pas­ sengers between two points in the United States. In order to be considered by Discovery Retrieves Refugees ifilfc. Seafarers aboard the Sea-Land Discovery recently rescued six Cuban refugees In the Gulf of Mexico; The Cubans had been at sea on a makeshift raft for 10 days. They were turned over to Immigration authorities In Puerto Rico, but first they received food and clothing from D/scoverycrewmembers. Pictured above are Chief Steward Jose R. Colls (kneeling) and (standing, from left) Capt. G. Pappas, the ship's security officer and the refugees: Jesus Roche, Luis Perez, Ruben Pereira, Sergio Rojas, Jesus Perez and Hector Monteagudo. Colls provided the photo. Rep. Jolene Unsoeld (D-Wash.) sponsored the cruise ship bill In the House. Some of the damage sustained by the ManhattanIslandIs visible at left. the act, vessels must weigh at least 10,(XX) gross tons and have at least 200 berths. Cruise ships that are built in U.S. yards, to replace the original foreign-flag vessels, must carry 80 percent of the passenger capacity of the original. When the act was introduced The U.S. Coast Guard's flag and crewed by Russians and in April, the SIU testified that the Maririe Safety Office in Port Ar­ Bahamians—reportedly sus­ legislation could stimulate the thur, Texas is investigating a Sep­ tained minimal damage and was creation of more than 30,000 tember 7 collision involving the sailing a few days later. seafaring jobs in addition to those runaway-flag bulk oiler Protank A Coast Guard spokesman es­ produced in U.Sig$hipyards, port Mersey (32,607 gross tons) and the timated that the first phase of the facilities and related fields. Manhattan Island (2,385 gross investigation would be com­ The union noted the act woulc tons), an SlU-crewed dredge. pleted by early this month. help increase marine safety be­ According to published reports, No major injuries were cause the crews on the vessels reported from the accident, and no pilot was on board the Protai^ would be Americans who mus there was no spillage of cargo. Mersey when it struck the dredge in meet this country's strict regula­ But the dredge, operated by North the fog at 1 a.m., in the Calcasieu tions and standards. American Trailing Co. Channel near L^e Charles, La. "It was the scariest thing I ever Also, the SIU pointed out the (NATCO), sustained severe legislation would strengthen na­ damage. The Manhattan Island's saw, to see the bow of a ship com­ tional security with the additiona hull was ripped open and its en­ ing right at you and not slowing U.S.-flag vessels that could be user gineroom was flooded. The roof down," said AB Jon Dillon, who as floating command/contro' on the bridge collapsed, blowing was on lookout aboard the Manhat­ out moist of the windows, and tan Island when the accident oc­ centers, hospitals and barracks. More than 4 million people, 85 there was other damage as well. curred. Captain Steven Taylor added, At press time, the dredge was percent of whom were "We're very fortunate that no one Americans, sailed on the more in drydock in Port Arthur. The Protank Mersey's outer was seriously injured." than 120 cruise ships locatec The dredge's engineroom took around the world in 1992—^anc hull was punctured, but, overall^ the projections indicate these numbers ship—owned by Mersey Shipping on an estimated 15 to 20 feet of of Greece, flying the Bahamian water. could double by the year 2000. Runaway-Flag Tanker Rams NA7C0 Dredge mm �' -v. •• M - Sir OCTOBER 1994 SEAFARERS LOG 5 USCG to Issue Machine Readable Z-Caids Revised Merchant Mariner Documents Part of Automated System The U.S. Coast Guard this Authorization Act of 1993. That database (although the Coast Guard no longer will maintain the paper copies). U.S. MERCHANT MARINEK\S DOCUMENT But given the projected ef­ ficiency and affordability of the new system, the Coast Guard an­ John Doe ticipates widespread use among SampI* Only VOID shipping companies. The agency worked with a number of ship Horn* Town USA Expected to Reduce Errors Pttbburgh PA 12345 operators to define the functions Icitizenship: USA When the new arrangement is and operations of a new process, IsSN: DOB; in place (possibly early in 1995, "and the consensus was that it 123456789 05/07/65 depending on when the final would have to be easy to use and regulations are issued), it will inexpensive enough for small "reduce data errors and turn­ companies to afford it," ex­ around time from months to plained Tate. "It also would have days," noted Ed Tate, project to be implemented without any manager in the Coast Guard's disruption of normal business Merchant Vesseil Personnel operations. This arrangement Division. "This will save the meets all of those criteria." companies and the Coast Guard He added that record-keeping time and labor. It also will im­ accuracy should be another prove security, because the sys­ benefit. "Right now, ship masters Eyes Hair WT HI Complexion manually copy information from tem has many safeguards." Brown Blown 180 69 Fair AB "We're talking about major the MMDs to shipping records," Sampio MMD only VOID monetary savings, as well as he noted. "They also manually saving time," added Justine Bun­ copy information onto discharge nell, chief of the agency's certificates, and when the Coast Issued by: Seamen Documentation and Guard receives copies, the infor­ New System Records Branch. "The Coast mation is manually entered into a Expires The revision of z-cards is part Guard's administrative costs will data base. Besides being time09/19/94 iRrC*f1IOyFOM| of an upcoming, voluntary sys­ go down, the companies' consuming, these efforts are sus­ By Direction of fheOCMI tem in which shipping companies preparation and mailing costs will ceptible to human error at each The new credit card-size z-card (shown here actual size) willbe transfer point." will have the option to electroni­ go down." Moreover, the new magnetic Issued by the U.S. Coast Guard this month. The front (top) However, the new operation cally transfer sea service informa­ contains a photo identification; the back (bottom) includes a tion to Coast Guard headquarters will not completely replace the stripe on the z-card opens a host thumb print as well as a magnetic stripe which will contain the in Washington. Once the ac­ current record-keeping fvocess. of possibilities in the future. At mariner's name and social security number. curacy of that information is con­ For examplb, mariners still will some point, ratings, sea time and firmed, the Coast Guard will enter receive paper certificates of dis­ other information may be added it into a central database, rather charge at the end of each voyage to the stripe, thereby further than filing the original paper­ or when they leave a vessel, and reducing paperwork and its re­ copies will be forwarded to and lated costs. work. The database for maintaining Designed to reduce costs both maintained by the company. Additionally, companies electronic records of sea service for the Coast Guard and for ship­ ping companies, the proposed which do not have electronic was created 13 years ago. In Avondale to Build Up to Six system—which will utilize rela­ transmission systems will con­ 1991, it was merg^ with another RO/RO Ships for U.S. Military tively inexpensive and basic com­ tinue submitting copies of dis­ data base which contains person­ Up to six new sealift vessels (Im-ge, medium-speed and rollputer technology—is a direct charge certificates for entry into nel information on everyone who on/roll-off ships) are expected to be built by Avondale Industries, result of the Coast Guard the Coast Guard's sea service has a z-card. Inc. in New Orleans, La., with the first one, the USNS Bob Hope, scheduled to be delivered to the Navy in early 1998. The ships, which will be crewed by civilian mariners under the Navy's Military Sealift Command, will be part of a fleet of vessels MUST BE RENEWED BY designed to preposition heavy equipment at sea near areas of poten­ tial conflict. For his contributions to the men and women in uniform, a new class of sealift ships will be named for the entertainer Bob Hope. Secretary of Navy John H. Dalton, who announced the new class of 1959 1964 1969 1974 1979 1984 1989 1994 1949 ships, cdled Bob Hope a "military hero." He said, "We can never repay him for his contributions to the men and women in uniform, but we can show our appreciation with a class of ships named in his 1950 1955 1960 1965 1970 1975 1980 1985 1990 1995 honor." Bob Hope entertained U.S. forces around the world for more than 50 years. 1951 1956 1961 1966 1971 1976 1^1 1986 1991; " month will begin issuing the new style of Merchant Mariner Docu­ ments (MMDs), also known as z-cards. The new z-card is a plastic, credit card-size document which is similar in appearance to the ex­ isting MMD. The key change is the addition of a magnetic stripe like the one on a credit card. The new MMD stripe will contain the mariner's name and social security number. Due to the z-card renewal schedule, both the old and new cards will be in circulation for the next five to six years, and either version is valid during that period. After the year 2000, all merchant mariners should have the new card. Meanwhile, only designated Coast Guard personnel at the agency's regional examination centers will be authorized to change information on the new magnetic stripe. legislation called for the Coast Guard to eliminate the main­ tenance of manual records for shipping articles and certificates of discharge and to oversee ship­ ping companies' record main­ tenance. nemeinKRf ^1" 'li .'fr;. • f: • J-if r • -y, • y Z-CARDS Issuedln: 1937 1942 1947 1952 1957 1962 1967 1972 1977 1982 1987 1992 1997 1938 1943 1948 1953 1958 1963 1968 1973 1978 1983 1988 1993 1998 Texas Senator Supports Maritime .. ^ .. * MarAd/U.S. Shipbuilder Will Explore Feasibility of Buiiding U.S. Cruise Ships A cooperative project to strengthen America's shipbuilding in­ dustry by exploring the feasibility of constructing cruise ships in the United States has been established between the Maritime Ad­ ministration (MarAd) and Ingalls Shipbuilding, Inc. of Pascagoula, Miss., a major U.S. shipyard with experience in constructing large naval vessels. Half of the funding for the $2.1 million agreement, which was awarded on a competitive basis, will come from the U.S. govemment over a 16-month period, with Ingalls providing the other half. The project will include development of a preliminary design as well as a shipyard manufacturing plan. *1/ xlr Low Water is No Reason To Halt Barge Traffic Texas Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison meets with SlU Vice President Dean Corgey (left) and Port Official Jim McGee at the Houston hall. Hutchison has been very supportive of maritime. Despite low water and shoaling conditions, none of the rivers throughout the Southeast, Midwest and Great Plains has been closed to barge traffic, according to the U.S. Coast Guard. Parts of the upper and lower Mississippi River recently have experienced some shoaling, as have p^ of Ae Missouri and Cumber­ land rivers. In addition, the Tennessee River has been going through its annual low-water cycle. The Coast Guard noted that some tows have bumped river bottoms, but none of these instances necessitated aclosuie. Below Cape Girardeau, Mo. on the Mississippi River, however, below-normal tow limits are causing periodic closures. / • ' I r • • ' 'i'' y; • vS: • �V 'T 6 V OCWRER1994 SEJ^ARERSLOG MR : ' '- . •'. " I^ " i > ••. AFL-CiO Study: NAFTA Provokes Job Losses, Lewer Trade Surpius Reuters Finnish, Swedish and Estonian helicopters and ships participated in the rescue operation. Above, a rescue worker recovers the bodies of passengers from one of the Estonia'slife rafts. , ..... Estonian FenTt Sinks, 800Peopie iRissing In the third worst ferry acci­ dent in recent history, an Es­ tonian-flag ferry capsized and plunged to depths of 250 feet in the Baltic Sea around 2:00 in the morning on September 28. Bound for Stockholm, Sweden from Estonia's capital, Tallinn, the German built Estonia sank during stormy conditions, with 55 mile-per-hour winds and 18-foot waves. The accident took place in international waters 20 nautical miles off the Finnish coast. About 140 people sur­ vived, 40 bodies were found, and some 820 were missing and presumed dead. Rescue ofEcials cited 50 degree waters in which a human being can survive only for a few hours. The governments of Sweden, Estonia and Finland are jointly conducting an investigation of the accident. Accounts by some survivors indicate that a bad door seal on the roll-on/roll-off class vessel may have caused the accident, allow­ ing water to rush in to the vehicle deck holding some 400 to 460 cars and about 30 trucks. Owned by Estline Shipping Co., a joint venture of the Es­ tonian government and a Swedish tanker company, Nordstrom & Thulin AB, the Estonia emitted one "Mayday" call at 1:24 am. The ship officer said the ferry was listing 20 to 30 degrees and had lost power in the engines. Sur­ vivors believe the ship was afloat for less than half-an-hour once the first signs of trouble were evi­ dent. Finnish, Swedish and Estonian helicopters and ships participated in the rescue operation. Helicop­ ters plucked those in rafts to safety. By early morning no other survivors were in view. Most survivors were tossed into the sea, later finding rafts that had automatically been released. The Finnish hospital treating the survivors report^ that nearly all had hypothermia. The ship carried a crew of 188. It Takes More than Votes Working on the election campaigns of those politicians in Hawaii favoring the maritime industry are Seafarers Richard Hindson, Terry Osbore, J.J. Arnold and Mark Lawrence. Ten months after implementa­ tion of a trade pact with Mexico, the first detailed assessment of the agreement shows that 27,010 workers have lost their jobs when their companies moved south of the border. The study, conducted by the AFL-CIO, the federation of na­ tional unions, also found that the once healthy trade su^lus the U.S. enjoyed with Mexico ($5.4 billion in 1992) declined 32 per­ cent compared with the same sixmonth period in 1993. The North American Free Trade Agreement, known as NAFTA, was billed by its sup­ porters, among them former President George Bush and Presi­ dent Bill Clinton, as a boon for the U.S. economy. The deal, which linked Canada, the U.S. and Mexico in one trading bloc, went into effect on Januaiy 1, 1994 Continued from page 2 agency and to develop mechanisms for self-inspection for model companies. Under the legislation, the Coast Guard is allowed to accept shipboard equipment approvals issued by foreign governments if the requirements of those groups conform to SOLAS standards. Cer­ tificates of inspection will now be ;ood for five years, instead of two, as is customary under international rules. Also, in addition to the American Bureau of Shipping, other recognized classification societies will be granted authority to conduct inspections. Representative Studds described the regulatory initiative as a "joint effort of the Coast Quard and the maritime industry :o ensure that [the U.S. does] not impose on the U.S. industry any unnecessary or obsolete require­ ments that could keep it from being competitive." He said he is "confident that the bill accomplishes this objecive without sacrificing U.S. safety standards or changing the requirements of any U.S. en­ vironmental law." Representative Fields added that the measure "will streamline shipbuilding requirements for all the U.S maritime industry and allow it to become more competi­ tive internationally." t 'vK' ,'. ..;•.•/• • 7:.; ::v '•- v,.V/.!. .^>''l^/;:.'j: of eroding quickly. Exports of manufactured goods from Mexico to the U.S. rose by 25 percent between January and May 1994. The dollar value of imports from Mexico to the United States increased in a number of areas when comparing data from January to June for both 1993 and 1994, points out the AFL-CIO study. For example, motor vehicle units increased in 1994 by 26.4 percent. Television imports surged; 50.4 percent more in 1994 from 1993. Piston engine imports in­ creased by 44.2 percent, radios by 31 percent, furniture by 24 per­ cent, electrical machinery by 25.2 percent and teleconununications equipment by 33.6 percent. The AFL-CIO intends to con­ tinue monitoring the results of NAFTA. House Adopts Host of Maritimo Ntoasures Seeking the Votes of Seafarers o;:- . .'•; 'M; V after it was approved last year by the Congress. Its adoption was vigorously op­ posed by the AFL-CIO and its rffiliates. The American unions argued that the pact was less about liberalizing trade than it was about making Mexico a fiiendlier place for American investment The job loss is detailed in 190 petitions filed with the Department of Labor which seek redress for thousands of employees who no longer have work, said the AFLCIO report, released last month and prepared liy the organization's Task Force on Trade. Under NAFTA, so called trade adjustment assistance is theoreti­ cally available to workers whose jobs have been lost to Mexico in the form of retraining funds and special compensation. The AFL-CIO found that the U.S. trade surplus with Mexico is Lt. Goverenor Ben Cayetano (with lei) was the guest speaker at the SlU union meeting last month on the eve of the primary election in his bid for the governorship of Hawaii. Cayetano spoke to the membership as TV cameras relayed his message to the state live from the SlU Honolulu office. He won the primary by 50,000 votes. In photo above, Cayetano poses with the SlU membership following the meeting. What had been the United States Passenger Vessel Develop­ ment Act of 1994, H.R. 3821, be­ came Title VII of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 1994. The bill establishes a series of mechanisms to encourage development of American-flag cruise ship businesses (see page 5 for a separate article on this bill). Representative Fields said he supported the bill because, "It is time to break the grip of the foreign interests that dominate what should be an American cruise ship trade." American Cruise Industry The bill will allow foreignflag craise vessels to re-flag to U.S. registry and operate between two American ports if a second passenger ship is built in a U.S. shipyard. As additional incen­ tives, the bill allocates Title XI loan guarantees for Americanbuilt cruise ships and provides tax incentives. It also gives U.S.-flag cruise vessels priority for Nation­ al Park permits. Representative Jolene Unsoeld (D-Wash), who authored the legislation, said, "This bill is about promoting U.S. interests and leveling the international playing field. It is about retaining a portion of the economic benefits here in the United States." Criilses-to-Nowhere Title XI of H.R. 4422, the United States Passenger Act of 1994, passed the House in Novem­ ber 1993 but was reintroduced this year because there was no similar action on the Senate side. The bill addressed the loophole in U.S. law which allows foreign-flag gaming ships to operate in American coas­ tal waters. American cabotage laws prohibit foreign-flag ships from sailing between two U.S. ports. However, the law is silent on a vessel sailing from a U.S. port and returning to the same U.S. port. That is how foreign-flag ships entered the so-called cruises-tonowhere trade. "Under present law, if a foreign-made, foreign-flag, foreign-owned vessel which operates out of the United States of America sails a mere three miles out to sea, turns around and comes back it is considered a foreign voyage," explained Rep­ resentative. Gene Taylor (DMiss), who introduced the bill. Taylor contends the intention of the nation' s cabotage laws are to reserve U.S. "coastlines for American vessels, American crews, and American-owned ves­ sels." OtherActlon Given that boating deaths are the second-largests category of transport-related fatalities, com­ ing rfter highway deaths. Con­ gress sought to improve boating safety. An amendment was adopted that mandates the use of life vests on children 12 or younger and makes it an offense to operate a boat while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Representative Thomas H. Andrews (D-Maine) added to the bill the requirement that the agen­ cy repair, maintain and overhaul its ships and maHne equipment in American shipyards. Finally, an amendment was added by Rep. Fields which cor­ rects a 48-year-old injustice to 2,500 merchant mariners who served this country with both honor and distinction during World War II. Veterans status for WWII mariners has been cut off at August 15, 1945. This bill would grant veterans status to in­ dividuals who were in training for the merchant marine before August 16, 1945. It also would give veterans status to those who were in the merchant marine before August 16, 1945 but who did not have ocean-going service. Finally, it grants veterans status to any individual who received a let­ ter of induction to the merchant marine by August 16,1945. The Fields amendment allows individuals who believe they qualify for veterans service uner the new conditions to apply to the Secretary of Transportation. In this case, veterans status will bring a qualifying individual a discharge certificate, a flag for their coffin and a grave headstone. They will not be eligible for other veterans benefits. At press tiipe. Senate action of H.R. 4422 was pending. It was uncertain whether or not the Senate would vote on the bill before its expected adjournment early this month. �•-''rv •'•:« i OaWBER 1994 SEAFARERS L9G Hudson Crew Plucks 12 Cubans from Gulf of Mexico •wr;,- • siafe.'''. Seafarers aboard the OMI Cubans and learned that they all Hudson last month rescued 12 were from the same family. A Cuban refugees who had been at couple of days earlier, they said, sea on a raft for nearly two weeks one member of the group who and who had been without food or was a diabetic passed away on the water for several days. raft, apparently due to lack of The rescue took place in the medication. (The refugees dis­ Gulf of Mexico, northwest of the posed of the body at sea.) Yucatan Channel, and within 12 The Cubans also related that hours the refugees were turned several foreign-flag ships had over to the U.S. Coast Guard. All passed them, "but they knew the were in good condition. Americans would stop," said "We got them aboard safely Bronstein, 37. "They said sharks and pretty quickly," said Recer­ had been hitting underneath the tified Bosun Ervin BronSiein, raft." who provided the photos accom­ A graduate of the Lundeberg panying this article. "The entire School trainee program in 1980, crew pitched in and did a very Bronstein reported that the sight professional job." of the fatigued, desperate AB Tan Joon, who speaks refugees provided a compelling fluent Spanish, talked widi the example of "how bad things are Waving and Shouting MSCPAC Ship Rescues 10 Egyptians i|:^^ Photo courtesy of MSCPAC Civilian mariners aboard a USNS Mars lifeboat tow the survivors of the Egyptian cargo phip back to the MSCPAC supply vessel. m • > '- in Cuba and what people are will ing to go through to get away from it. When you only see it on television or read about it in the newspaper, it's kind of easily dis missel^. But when you meet the people aihifheaf them explain that there's no food, no jobs, no way to support their families, and they're just seeking a better life, it makles you think." The Hudson was en route to Houston when members of the deck gang spotted the raft ap­ proximately 1.5 miles away from the vessel. As they moved closer, crewmembers saw people waving and heard them shouting Once the Hudson alerted the U.S. Coast Guard and OMI and received the go-ahead to pick up the refugees, the ship was maneuvered alongside the raft. "We rigged the crane and )ilot ladder and also prepared ife-saving equipment and medi­ cal response gear,", notec Bronstein. "We threw them safety lines, too, because we real­ ized they might be in a weakened condition. 'They weren't delirious, but they wanted to jump off the raft to get to the pilot ladder. They were holding their empty water jugs out to us... Tan kept telling them to stay calm." The Cubans, including a 12year-old boy, were brough aboard without incident. "They took showers while we washec their clothes, then the stewarc department fed them," said Bronstein. The bosun stated that the One-by-one, the Cuban refugees are helped from their raft up the pilot ladder and brought to safety aboard the OMI Hudson. refugees "would have drifted for Members of the SIU's Government Services Division helped rescue 10 Egyptian mariners off the coast of Oman who had been drifting for nine days in a lifeboat after their small cargo ship sank in the North Arabian Sea. In rough seas on August 11, the USNS Mars, a supply ship for the Military Sealift CommandPacific Fleet (MSCPAC), picked up the survivors from the Egyp­ tian-flag Salem 12. The men in the lifeboat had only a day's ra­ tion of food and water left, but they were in good condition at the time of the rescue. Another lifeboat, carrying nine crewmembers from the Salem 12, reached port in Mowhat, Oman, but two life rafts carrying a total of 12 men still have not been found. Crewmembers aboard the Mars spotted white flares that had been fired from the lifeboat. The 7 Second Pumpman Spencer Smith (left) and AB Mark Konikowski prepare for the rescue. several more days if we hadn't seen them. I guess a lot of refugees head for Florida, but this bunch was trying toget to Mexico or Texas and they were in the wrong current. They probably would have died. "But we were just doing our jobs, being professional seamen." The SIU members who were on board the Hudson when the rescue took place were Bronstein, Joon, ABs Norberto Vera, Paul Wade, Chris Stringer, and Mark Konikowski, Chief Pumpman Stuart Croft, Second Pumpman Spencer Smith, OMUs Wiihert Miles and Jose Ramirez, DEU Victor Mondeci, Steward/Baker Wally Lau, Chief Cook Mariano Morales and GUS Eduardo Elemento. Narragansett Saves 4 Off Coast of Kenya • ' '•••./-Ti' •> ' Two members of the SIU's four Zanzibarans clinging to a Government Services Division partially submerged, uncovered recently were honored for their boat. Duffenbach and Petro parts in an April rescue involving manned the Narragansett's rigidthe USNS Narragansett that hull inflatable boat and guided it saved the lives of four men from to the foundering double outrig­ ger canoe, while Farenzena Zanzibar. ABs Ernest Farenzena and operated toe crane. Jerome Duffenhach received The four men had been adrift Special Act Awards and certifi­ for 10 days, and their nominal cates from the Military Sealift supply of food and water had long Command-Pacific Fleet since run out. They were (MSCPAC) after helping perform dehydrated and disoriented. They toe rescue near toe coast of Kenya, also did not have a compass, chart as did Chief Mate Thomas Petro or any other navigational gear. and Third Officer John K. McDuffenbach and Petro found toe men weakened, covered with Ginnis. The Narragansett was not minor sores from exposure to supposed to be at the site where saltwater and waist-deep in the rescue took place, but the water. Members of toe deck depart­ ocean fleet tug had retumed to Mombasa, Kenya a day earlier ment brought the Zanzibarans after crewmembers discovered aboard without incident. The gal­ three young stowaways (ages 9, ley gang then provided blankets 14 and 15) aboard the ship. The and prepared warm soup and joys presumably snuck on board other easily-digestible food for toe while the vessel was taking on four men who, despite their condi­ nel and other supplies in the tions, were expect^ to be okay. On toe way back to Mombas^ Kenyan port city. With the stowaways safely crewmembers donated clothes returned to shore and having and some personal items to toe notified toe proper authorities, Zanzibarans. Narragansett Captain Russ" he Narragansett resumed its scheduled course. The ship had Driver commended the entire traveled 20 miles out to sea when crew for their efforts. "They VIcGinnis spotted an unidentified responded without direction once object drifting in toe water, and the rescue was initiated," he the Narragansett moved in to in­ noted. "The little things—^giving water, shaking hands, looks of vestigate. Crewmembers from the gratitude—these are sights I will VISCPAC vessel discovered the never forget." It spoke English) repeatedly thanked the MSCPAC crew. The ship's medical services officer examined the 10 men and found them healthy other than some minor sun rashes. Meanwhile, the galley gang provided them with clean clothes and warm meals, and the entire crew donated new coveralls, toiletries and ball caps. The Egyptians spent one day on the Mars, then were flown by helicopter to Fujairah, UAE. MSCPAC's Vice Admiral Katz forwarded a message to the Mars crew, congratulating them on an "outstanding performance. This unselfish and heroic effort, completed in dangerous seas, is yet another fine example of the humanitarian nature of our sea service. Your deft and ex­ peditious handling of this situa­ Thankful Passengers tion was superb and in keeping Photo courtesy o< MSCPAC Once aboard the Mars, the with centuries of seafaring Moving in to start rescue operations are (right) AB Jerome Duffenbach and Chief Mate Thomas Petro of the USNS Narragan^tt. Egyptians (several of whom tradition." MSCPAC vessel then altered its course and discovered the sur­ vivors. Members of the deck gang launched a whaleboat which retrieved the 10 Egyptians without incident, despite the choppy seas. TTie Egyptians explained that their ship had begun taking on water rapidly through two cargo holds. The vessel went down in only 10 minutes, but all 31 people aboard managed to abandon ship in the two lifeboats and two life rafts. The survivors also said that they were passed by several other ships, including one that stopped nearby for five minutes, then left without making contact (and ap­ parently without reporting a citing of the lifeboat). • •Sv J v< '•'I. • . �8 SEAFARBtSIM OCTOBER 1994 Three Senators Stymie Vote on 5lr/p BUI In the event that the shipbuild­ American yards. and industiy representatives vowec would pay 31 cents and then 27 These fiinds would be in the ing agreement negotiated by the to seek alternative ways of bringin; cents. form of series transition pay­ governments of the nations par­ maritime program that had the the bill to the floor so Aat it coidd be Also in the Senate staff draft, ments, which provide support to ticipating in the Organiation for support of a majority of Com­ debated on its merits. as in the House bill, is $100 mil­ American yards for building Economic Development (OECD) merce Committee members. lion for Title XI loan guarantees House Version competitively priced commer­ Senator John Breaux (D-La.) for shipbuilding in U.S. yards, is not approved by the U.S. Con­ cial ships for die international The bill, as passed by the funds that would generate up to gress, the Senate version allo­ said,"The rules are being used trades. because some are afraid to debate House, allocated $1.35 billion $1 billion in vessel construction. cates additional monies for over 10 years for a U.S.-flag con an issue. tainership operation program anc Endangering Ag Interests aid for American shipyards. Farm state Senator J. James According to the House ver­ Exon (D-Neb.) had the stronges sion, vessels would be eligible for admonition of Pressler's blocking the program if they are made ruse. He reminded Pressler that available to the Department o agricultural interests had been Defense (DOD) and allow DOD primarily concerned with the im­ cargo space in times of war or pact of the tonnage duty on the conflict. For inclusion in the pro­ movement of bulk grains. Exon gram, a vessel could be no more pointed out that that concern had than 15 yeairs old. Vessels built in been addressed in the removal of foreign yards that are re-flagged grain cargoes from an increase in under the Stars and Stripes could be no older than 10 years. the tonnage duty. The funding for the program Using a delay tactic to prevent debate and a vote on the bill would be raised through a ton­ would only result in making nage duty of 38 cents per enemies for farm state legislators, registered ton of every vessel said Exon. The procedural ploy calling at U.S. ports. "could get us in the agricultural Senate Plan sector in big, big trouble," added The Senate version, while very Exon. He noted that the farm bill comes up for debate next year and similar to the House bill, changed that Pressler should bear in mind the tonnage structure. The staff of that "what goes around, comes he Commerce Committee put in place the following changes to the around." tonnage fee provisions Container Senator Trent Lott (R-Miss.), would pay 74 cents per housands of letters urging Senate enactment of a bill promoting U.S. shipping have been sent by noting that the Senate session was vessels registered ton for the first five Seafarers and their family members to senators throughout the nation. in its last days, said, "The*«tbig mistake is trying to do it now. We ^ears and 63 cents from 1999 to should have been doing this a 2004. Dry bulk carriers would Adding their voices to the John A. Gallagher, a 50-year Bumpers (D-Ark.). "As a retired month ago or four months ago or only pay existing duties while liq­ debate on whether the nation resident of the state who works Seafarer I am ^avely concerned uid bulk ships would pay 31 cents a year ago." needs a forward-looking out of the port of Philadelphia, to about our diminish^ merchant Following the committee initially and 21 cents in the last maritime program are thousands back the bill. fleet from over 3000 ships during meeting, pro-maritime legislators ive years. Passenger vessels of Seafarers and their family Brother Gallagher noted that World War II (I was serving on members who over the course of the funding mechanism for the the SS Scottsburg and rescued by the last month have barraged their program, a tonnage duty, was a the SS Kahuka when both were senators with letters and phone fair way to raise monies for a U.S. sunk by Germans in 1942.) to calls urging support for the ship plan. "It's time for the fewer than 350 ships now sailing maritime bill before the Senate. foreign-flag companies to pay under 'Old Glory'." He urged Due for consideration by the their fair share for the services Senator Buinpers to support legis­ Senate is a bill that would allocate provided by the U.S. Coast Guard lation to revitalize the industry. Continued from page 3 the Americans soon were cheered $1 billion over a 10-year period to and other money spent at the Patricia Yaros, whose hus­ as liberators. support a U.S.-flag container fleet American taxpayer's expense." band is a seaman, urged Senator ships and from the seafaring At press time, the number of and provide aid to American Walter PopperwUI, a North Bill Bradley (D-N.J.) to consider unions who provide the crews," noted Maritime Administrator U.S. troops in Haiti had swelled shipyards. A House version of the Carolina resident and a tugboat the consequences to American Albert J. Herberger. "Once again, to more than 15,600. On Septem­ bill, known as the Maritime Ad^ captain, told D.M. "Lauch" workers. She said her husband they have come forward to sup­ ber 27, some of the troops took ministration and Promotional Faircloth (R-N.C.) that "enact­ had been shipping "for all our port our nation's armed forces." over the Haitian Parliament Reform Act or H.R. 4003, passed ment of H.R. 4003 would send a married life. He missed out on so More than 2,000 U.S. troops building and the capital's City that legislative body in early message to the world that the much of the children growing just United States will never allow it­ to support his family. And if this landed without resistance on Hall in another step towards August by a vote of 294-122. The Senate version was not self to become totally dependent bill is not passed then it would Haiti on September 19. Greeted returning Haiti to democratic rule reported out of committee be­ on foreign countries to carry its have been for nothing." warily by many citizens at first. by a civilian government. cause a group of farm state products or in times of national As the LOG was going to senators exercised a little-used security." press. around the Chronology of Recent Events In Haiti parliamentary rule that prevented Seafarer J.T. Spence, a Vir­ country Seafarers were learning of the tac­ the committee fr^m^eting (see ginia resident, said to Charles tics of U.S. shipping's opponents story on page 3). Senators who Robb (D-Va.), "Our seamen rank to try and prevent the maritime In 1990, Jean-Bertrand Aristide won the presidency of Haiti support the bill are now looking among the best this world has to bill from being debated and voted in a democratic election. In 1991, he was overthrown by for ways in which it can be offer for their hard work, loyalty on. Upon learning the news, Gen. Raoul Cedras and Police Chief Lt. Gen. Michel Fran­ brought to the floor. and dedication to duty. World Ervin Bronstein, a seafarer from cois. The international community responded by imposing In their letters to senators. War II proved that. Give our San Antonio, vowed to write an embargo. Earlier this year, the United Nations authorized Seafarers have pointed out the es­ the use of force to oust Cedras and his group and restore sentiality of a strong U.S.-flag seamen proud ships and state-of- another letter to his senators ur­ the-art equipment and they will ging that they do their utmost to Aristide to his elected post. fleet to the nation's defense and get the job done." bring the bill to the floor before economic interests. Retired Seafarer Thurston the Senate ends its session early • On September 8, the U.S. Ready Reserve Force (RRF) Is Retired Seafarer Harry N. John Lewis wrote to Dale this month. activated as America prepares for Invasion of Haiti. Hundreds of U.S. merchant mariners report to the vessels and prepare Schorr of Hemet, Calif., in a let­ ter to Senator Barbara Boxer (Dthem to sail. Calif.), said, "H.R. 4003 will • On September 18, following negotiations tietween U.S. delega­ make more ships available to the tion led by former president Jimmy Carter and Haitian military military services and will bring leaders, Invaston Is called off when Cedras and others agree to employment and pensions to resign by October 15 In exchange for guaranteed amnesty. Americans who will spend the money in the United States. • On September 19, thousands of U.S. forces land without 'Plus," added Shorr, "They all opposition and take over Haiti's ports and airfields In the first will be taxpapyers." stage of a military peacekeeping operation aimed at restoring West Virginia's Senator democracy. Robert C. Byrd (D) was contacted by David D^hayes, a resident of • On September 22, U.S. lifts most economic sarxTtions that state. He urged the senator to Haiti, but keeps In place thoseaimed at military leaders ar backets. consider the value to the nation of having sufficient sealift • On September 27, U.S. troops secure the Haitian Pariiament capability in times of war. Before shipping out of the St. Louis hall as a steward assistant on the building and the csqiltal's city hall. Arlen Specter, a senator from Franklin Phillips, Jo Stinnett writes her two senators In Kentucky, Pennsylvania (R), was urged by asking for their support on the maritime bill. Continued from page 3 IV' " •;.J' ; V.:' Seafarers Call on Legislators To Back Maritime Program For Haitian OperaRong SiU Crews 8 RRF Ships /. '.w.. �ocmaiim SBAFAmKSLOe 9 ReM^ytkm l^tHcathm Cmirses Move West San Francisco, Seattle, Honolulu Halls Will Host Two-Day Class npu-«. ¥>^..1 T¥_if • — ._ i The Paul Hall ^ Center's \ mington, Calif, during the last SIU halls across the country. This refrigeration technician certifica- week of September. year, additional classes are tion course is available to October marks the fourth con­ scheduled to run through early Seafarers this month at the SIU secutive month that the Paul Hall December at five other locations halls in San Francisco, Seattle and Center's Lundeberg School has Port Everglades, Fla.; San Juan, Honolulu. The two-day course been offering the class—which is P.R.; Algonac, Mich.; Duluth also was scheduled to be con­ approved by the Environmental Minn.; and St. Louis. ducted at the SIU hall in Wil­ Protection Agency (EPA)—at The refrigeration technician Seafarers Fare Well on EPA Exam Members Emphasize Need for Course Preparation . certification course also is avail­ able as part of engine departmem upgrading courses at die Lun­ deberg School and is being of­ fered periodically as a separate course at Piney Point. The course culminates with the taking of a four-part, 100question EPA exam. Passing this test will result in Seafarers earn­ ing EPA certification that is man­ datory for anyone involved in the repair and servicing of refrigera­ tion equipment and air condition­ ing systems. November 14 is the deadline for obtaining certification, ac­ cording to the EPA regulation which requires it. That rule stems from the Clean Air Act Amend­ ments of 1990. along with the basic section, leads to Type n certification. Low-pressure refrigerants is the topic in the final 25 questions. Students who pass this section and the core questions will earn Type HI certification. Passing all four parts leads to Universal certification. Most Seafarers who handle refrigerants will need at least Type I and Type H certifications, since galley equipment is covered under Type I, and ships' stores systems are covered under Type II. The SIU encourages all QMEDs to test for Universal cer­ tification. Seafarers who work aboard cruise ships also should seek Universal certification, since pas­ senger vessels often use lowpressure refrigerants. There is no limit to the number of times someone may take the exam, so different certifications may be earned at different times. Results will be mailed to Seafarers no more than a month after they take the exam. Those who pass one or more sections of the test will receive a certification card (which has no expiration) and a certificate. Preparation and concentration are the keys to passing the En­ vironmental Protection Agency (EPA) exam for refrigeration technician certification, said Seafarers who took the test las month at SIU halls in Houston Norfolk, Va. and at the Paul Hal Center in Piney Point, Md. Lots of Information The members took the exam immediately following the Lun­ Many Seafarers who have deberg School's two-day taken the course advise their fel­ refrigeration technician certifica­ Doing a workbook exercise last month as part of the two-day course low members that a great deal of tion class, which was developer are Seafarers at the SIU hall in New Orleans. information is covered during the by Lundeberg School instructors two days. "The subjects are wellin order to prepare Seafarers for presented, but there's a lot to the EPA test. cover in a relatively short period "I thought the course was very of time," said QMED Tom interesting and fast-moving, Keseru, who took the course last said QMED Steve Treece, who month at Piney Point. "Studying took the class at the Houston hall. before you take the class is a big "I picked up a lot, beyond the key to doing well on the test." basics that we're already sup­ Shipping Priority Day one of the course begins posed to know. at 8 a.m. and lasts until 4 p.m SIU members should be aware "All you have to do is get the Topics covered include that, according to a recent action textbook ("Refrigerants and the refrigerants and compressor by the Seafarers Appeals Board Environment") in advance and lubricating oils, refrigerant han­ (SAB), after November 14, study it. I got it three weeks At the SIU hall in Norfolk, Va., members prepare to take the EPA exam dling safety procedures, how Seafarers who are certified before I took the course. If you do for refrigeration technician certification. refrigerants affect the environ­ refrigeration technicians will be that, plus pay close attention ment, theories of refrigeration, during the class and use the given priority within their respecpressure-temperature relation­ tive seniority classes for all Workbook, you should pass the ships and related laws and regula­ QMED, electrician, refrigeration test. tions. "s, Other Seafarers offered and junior engineer jobs. The second day also starts at 8 similar assessments, consistent Proof of holding the certifica­ with those voiced by SIU mem­ a.m. and lasts until 2 p.m., fol­ tion will not be mandatory when bers who took the course earlier lowed by the exam. Some of the Seafarer registers for employ­ this year. subjects covered are refrigeration ment at a union hall. However, "ITie course is pretty intense. servicing, handling small ap­ when throwing in for a shipboard You cover a lot of material in pliances, working with high- and job which includes duties of han­ basically a day-and-a-half, low-pressure equipment, and dling refrigerants, members will stated QMED John Walsh, who conversion of equipment using have to show whether they pos­ earned Universal certification chlorofluorocarbon (CFC)-based sess such certification. after taking the class at Piney refrigerants. SIU members who are on a Point. "You absolutely have to Seafarers at the Paul Hall Center review the theories of refrigeration Testing is conducted by the in­ ship during the November 14 read "Refrigerants and the En­ with instructor Eric Malzkuhn (far right). structor following the second day deadline are asked by the union to vironment" in order to do well on that getting the textbook in ad­ it, and that was a big factor in of class, from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. obtain certification as soon as the test." The exam is divided into four possible after they sign off the Walsh added that the $25 cost vance was essential, and that's the passing the test," he said. "It was parts, and there are corresponding vessel. of the book "is well worth it. I've truth," said Chief Engineer Jim a difficult class, but I studied hard certification types. The first 25 The recent action of the SAB been working on (refrigerated) "Indiana" Payne, who sails from and got the result I warited." questions are basic and general. (No. 374) assures that companies "You definitely need to go containers for about 10 years, but the port of Houston. "This isn't a that doesn't mean I know all the course where you can learn through the book more than one The second set of 25 covers small which are signatories to a collec­ chemistry involved. The book everything overnight, so I was or two times," added QMED appliances. Passing the first two tive bargaining agreement with and the class really help in that lad to get three weeks of study­ Steve Harrington, who took the sections leads to Type I certifica­ the SIU will be in compliance ing done before the course." class at Piney Point. "There's just tion. with the new EPA regulations. area." Payne also praised the so much information to cover." The third group of 25 ques­ Violations of those regulations Studying Pays Off workbook that is part of the Seafarers who want to buy the tions refers to high-pressure can result in penalties as great as In the port of Norfolk, course materials. Prepared by book should indicate this to the refrigerants. Passing this part, $25,000. QMED/Electrician Kevin Quin­ Lundeberg School instructors, port agent whom they contact 1994 REFRIGERATfON TECHNICIAN COURSE SCHEDULE tan commended the job done by ihe workbook is given to when signing up for the class. instructor Eric Malzl^n and ex­ Seafarers at no charge. They should Aen send a check for LOCATION Despite the high pass rate $25, made payable to the "Paul DATE DAY pressed appreciation that the course was available at the union among Seafarers, SIU members Hall Center," to; EPA Refrigera­ San Francisco Oct.3-4 Mon.-Tue. hall. "I can walk to the hall in five caution that the exam is difficult. tion Tech. Course, Paul Hall Cen­ San Francisco Oct. 5-6 Wed.-Thu. "I was surprised at how tough ter for Maritime Training and minutes, so this was very con­ Seattle Oct. 11-12 Tue.-Wed. venient," said Quintan, who it was, and I started studying two Education, P.O. Box 75, Piney Seattle Thu.-Fri. Oct. 13-14 graduated from the Lundeberg weeks in advance," said QMED Point, MD 20674, Attn: J.C. Honolulu Oct. 19-20 Wed.-Thu. School trainee program in 1980. Paul Peterson, who obtained Weigman. The book will be sent "I studied a lot before actually Jniversal certification at Piney by first class mail. (Be sure to Honolulu Oct. 21-22 Fri.-Sat. taking the class, and I learned Point. "It's harder than a lot of indicate an address where the Nov. 8-9 Port Everglades, Fla. Tue.-Wed. other Coast Guard exams, but if book should be sent.) quite a bit." Nov. 10-11 Port Everglades, Ra. Thu.-Fri. The EPA has found that the you listen to Eric, do the The Lundeberg School also is San Juan, P.P. Wed.-Thu. Nov. 16-17 Lundeberg School's course has workbook and take the prepara­ trying to make the book available Nov. 18-19 San Juan, P.P. Fri.-Sat, the highest pass rate among Ae tion seriously, you should be able for purchase directly from the many refrigeration technician o pass it." Nov. 29-30 Algdnac, Mich. Tue.-Wed. Deck Engineer Mike Phillips, ports where the courses are ceitihcation classes available. That Duiuth, Minn. Dec. 1-2 Thu.-Fri. scheduled. Check with the in­ pattern continued last month, and who took the class in Norfolk and dividual port agents to find out if Dec. 6-7 St. Louis Tue.-Wed. members attributed the results to earned Universal certification, the book is available in advance agreed. "1 got the book about a extensive preparation. For 1995 courses, seepage 23 in this edition of the LOG. "I read in the Seafarers LOG month ahead of time and studied at a particular hall. ' .V •I':': • ! '• • Sff • 1t rf;. '4 • "'•'••••-C-I.'. ' '.-I• •' %' • m•M •i'Oi?- • '.-.V. �10 0CnaER1994 SEAFAKRSLOe Slimmer Harvest Keeps Orgulf Crews Busy SIU crewmembers aboard the Orgulf tugboats Dick Conerly and J.N. Phillips have been very active as the summer sailing season along the Mississippi River is com­ ing to an end. The tugs are moving agricultural products that recently have been harvested along with the usual cargoes of mulch, coal, steel pipes and other items. "TTiis is a really busy time of year for us," noted Darrlen Vessell, lead deckhand aboard the J.N. Phillips. "Cargoes have to be moved, and there's always more to pick up." His views are echoed by John Gould, who sails in the same position aboard the Dick Conerly. "We have good crews on our tugs," Gould added. "They know what it means to get the cargo to its destination safe and on time." Orgulf tugs operate along the Mississip­ pi, Ohio, Tennessee, Illinois and Missouri rivers. The company is based in Cincinnati. . '-i v'v Cook Charles Jourdan has skillets warming on the stove as he prepares a specialty for the Dick Conerly crew. ' Cook Martha Smith plans a menu for the crew on board the J.N. Phillips. I ^ Deckhand Kenneth Marshall Lead Deckhand John Gould catches a Getting readyforworkonthe Conlooks In on the Conerty's galley, bite between shifts on the Coneriy. erty Is Utilltyman Rick Shirley. A shipyard conversion has given new life to a former tanker and more job opportuntities to Seafarers who sad along the Great Lakes. The Medusa Conquest reappeared on the Lakes three years ago as a self-unloading barge. The vessel had been a Standard Oil tanker delivering petroleum products to terminals along the Great Lakes. Following the conversion, Hannah & Medusa (H&M) Transport took over the barge's operations. Tlie tug James A. Hannah and the Medusa Conquest call on the ports of Chicago, Detroit and Toledo, Ohio after loading in Charlevoix, Mich. The pair works as an integrated tug/barge JJTB). "This is a good vessel," notes Glenn Ransom, who Duty Engineer Glenn Ransom keeps an eye on the engine board of the tug James A. Hannah. is duty engineer on the James A. Hannah. "It's the only one of its kind in the H&M Transport fleets. The Monitoring offloading operations from the control t>oard Is crew makes sure it stays Conveyorman Donald McDonald. in top condition." Doing his part to make sure the crew is in its top condition is Cook Gerald Relfenbark. Ran­ som says Reifenbark does a great job in feeding Ae members y aboard ship. "The •0 food and menus are top notch," he added. Unlike other Great Lakes tug/barges handled by Hannah Marine (the parent company of H&M Transport), the Medusa Con­ quest/James A. Hannah does not sail year-round.The cement barge lays up during the winter icing, while Hannah petroleum tug/barges operate around the calend^ on Lake Erie. Seafarers Operate One-of-a-Kind Tug/Barge on Lakes Helping to guide the barge Medusa Conquest Is Deckhand David It Is time to prepare another meal as Cook Second Conveyorman Wayne Bumham makes sure cement Tharp. The Medusa Conquest Is part of an ITB. Gerald Relfenbark heads Into the galley, offloads at a steady flow. �OCTOBER 1994 Seafarers Welfare Plan Anneunces Changes To Protect Benefits SEAFARERS LOG 11 Towing Safety Highlights Category Equipment Current Law Lffesaving and firefighting gear House iniand Safety Act Adds requirement for radar, depthfinder, compass or swing meter, charts and adequate towing equipment. The Seafarers Welfare Plan covered employment. Whereas inspection Only towing vessels that are inspected Coast Guard must develop inspe^ion (SWF) recently announced before, the maximum amount of program for all towing vessels within are those greater than 300 gross tons one year and send to Congress. operating seaward of the shoreline. several changes which are sickness and accident time designed to protect SIU credited as covered employment Licensing For uninspected towing vessel Eliminates existing operators licenses members' medical benefits. was 39 weeks, the maximums in operator's license, person must have and replaces them with master and These adjustments were the new schedule range from 180 mate licenses. Requires applicants for three years' relevant experience and detailed in a letter which on days to 20 days. pass a written exam. Second-class new or first-time renewal master and August 18 was sent to all SWF operator's license can be obtained with mate licenses to demonstrate (Note: There is no change in half the experience and passage of proficiency in operating a towing participants. the sickness and accident exam. vessel and use of navigational "The changes that were made benefits themselves. Seafarers equipment. were done for three reasons," said still may receive them for up to Nick Marrone, SWF ad­ 39 weeks.) Crew Documentation Aside from the licensed individuals and Requires all personnel that do not hold ministrator. "One is to ensure that • Seafarers will receive credit tankermen, no other crewmembers CG-issued license or document on are required to hold Coast Guard the Seafarers Welfare Flan con­ as covered employment for 50 towing and offshore supply vessels papers of any kind. and all unlicensed personnel tinues to protect members from percent of the time they attend employed in positions listed on a being financially ruined due to a upgrading courses at Ae Faul passenger vessel's certificate of catastrophic accident or illness. Hall Center, provided they suc­ inspection to carry a z-card. That protection comes in theform cessfully complete the course. of maintaining 100-percent • The SWF will pay a lifetime coverage of reasonable and cus­ maximum benefit of $10,000 per tomary charges for Seafarers and participant for home-hedth and by ensuring that the Flan has hospice care, with an annual max­ imum benefit of $2,000 for home long-term financial stability. nursing care. "The second reason is to allow • The SWF will pay a lifetime Continued from page 2 the Flan to continue affording the industry, which currently does marine equipment to hold a Coast maximum benefit of $50,000 out-patient coverage for depend­ not require crewmembers on tugs Guard document was a sensible ents which is included in the cur­ toward the treatment of any birth ducting its investigation of the or tows to hold z-cards. act. rent standard operating contract. defect or related condition result­ derailment, another accident took The union backed the plan be­ He pointed out that "what is This is a benefit that the member­ ing during pregnancy or as a place which spotlighted the neer cause it assures all members of a really required when yimeone for stricter waterway safety laws. towing vessel crew that they will gets a document is basically put­ ship indicated is extremely im­ result of pregnancy. • The SWF will pay a total On January 7, the barge Morris J. be working side to side with in­ ting down their name, social portant to them, but it has increased the Flan's expenses sig­ benefit of $2,000 for cardiac Berman, adrift after its towline dividuals who qualified for mer­ security number, producing a rehabilitation. broke, struck a coral reef off the chant mariner documents. nificantly. passport, giving an address, "One of the main questions coast of San Juan, F.R. and spilled "Finally, the Flan has estab­ SIU Fresident Michael Sacco, telephone number, the name of lished a number of procedural which was considered in making 600,0(X) gallons of oil, fouling in a communication to committee their employer, and, very impor­ safeguards to discourage any these and other changes is, 'What pristine beaches and killing fish members a few days before its tantly, there is a criminal back­ potential abuse of the system." can be done that is effective and and wildlife. meeting, noted that a recent Coast ground check conducted by the Marrone added that several of fair and that also has the least Guard study on towing vessel Coast Guard." monetary impact on the mem­ Documentation = Safety the changes simply are estab­ bers,"' Marrone noted. "With no manning "indicated that human Fields, Studds Push Bill During consideration of the error has been attributed as the lishments of yearly or lifetime action on the part of Congress to bill, the most hotly debated issue ceilings to be paid by the SWF. pass a nation^ health care bill to Fields and Studds urged the cause of the majority of marine Among the alterations an­ contain health care costs and dis­ was the requirement that z-cards accidents in the inland towing in­ committee to be guided by con­ cerns for safety and not what nounced by the SWF are the fol­ tribute them fairly, health care ex­ be mandatory for deckhands on dustry." towing vessels. lowing: would happen in the Senate. The penses will continue to skyrocket. 'Improves Competence' The measure to require that in­ , • Effective immediately, the So it's up to us to protect the Towing Vessel Navigational SWF will count maintenance and interests of Seafarers by keeping dividuals without licenses work­ "Upgrading the licenses of Safety Act of 1994 "will not live cure time as covered employment the medical plan on a sound and ing aboard towing vessels hold towing vessel operators and re­ or die by this or any other single only if a member's employer con­ secure track. Also, members can Coast Guard-issued merchant quiring a demonstration of provision," Studds said. Representative Bart Stupak tinues to make contributions on help the plan by closely checking mariner documents (known as z- proficiency of skills in using re­ his or her behalf to the SWF while their medical bills, maintaining cards) was strongly backed by the quired navigational equipment (D-Mich.) also spoke in favor of and in operating a vessel will cer­ the plan. "It is really a safety the member receives main­ healthy lifestyles and receiving SIU. In its research, the union had tainly improve the competence of issue." The bill would require "an tenance and cure payments. preventive care." found that in segments of the in­ individu^s employed on tugs on individual to apply at one of the • The SWF has established a Seafarers who did not receive dustry where merchant mariner the inland waterway system," regional inspection offices of the schedule to determine the amount a copy of the August 18 letter may documents are required for all Coast Guard, to provide proof of Sacco said. of covered employment a contact the SWF office at SIU shipboard personnel, human fac­ He also said the merchant citizenship, permanent residence, Seafarer can receive credit for headquarters, 5201 Auth Way, tors are less likely to be the cause mariner document requirement provide fingerprints, make avail­ under the sickness and accident Camp Springs, MD 20746, or by benefits based upon years of telephone at 1-800-CLAIMS4. of accidents than in the towing is not only a form of identifica­ able information so we cw do a tion but also a key indication that drivers license check because the holder has satisfied minimum only a drunk driving or a drug scrutiny by the Coast Guard and conviction can deny them the has remained in good stead, since merchant mariner document," he the document is subject to said. Stupak added that the require­ suspension or revocation on ment "is not unduly burdensome various grounds." Congress will adjourn this month without care reform in the past year, a number of facts Under Coast Guard proce­ on anybody." passing a health care reform bill, but the issue were pointed out which highlight the severity of the health care crisis. For example, an estimated dures, individuals who have been will not go away. 'Standardizes' Procedures found unfit for their shipboard The health care debate is sure to resurface in 38 million Ameficans do not have health care Representative Curt Weldon duties or a danger to themselves political campaigns between now and the coverage, and many others are underinsured. (R-Fenn.) noted that the towing Those who have coverage shoulder much of the and their shipmates, can have November elections, and those who favor companies in his area that work expense of treatment for the uninsured, in the their merchant mariner docu­ reform are expected to resume the push for com­ along the coastline of the eastern form of higher premiums and fees. ments revoked by the agency, prehensive changes when the House and Senate seaboard down to the Gulf of Additionally, for every dollar spent by an preventing them from finding fu­ reconvene early next year. Mexico require documents of ture shipboard employment. "We are determined to move forward in the individual with health insurance for health care their boatmen. He answered the effort to win national health care reform that services, less than half of that dollar goes to Tauzin Opposes Z-Cards opponents of the measure who provides every American access to quality care cover actual care. An estimated 18 percent goes Representative Tauzin argued said the document would be at a price they can afford," said AFL-CIO Fresi- to cover the uninsured; 11 percent is lost toclaim that the measure would not in­ meaningless by asking why, if dent Lane Kirkland. "Workers and their unions fraud; 13 percent is drained by paperwork and crease safety on towing vessels that was the case, are z-cards still have had that goal for generations, and that effort administrative costs; and nearly 20 percent is continues right now in our work in the 1994 taken by defensive medicine, meaning unneces­ and that it would create needless required of deep sea seamen. bureaucracy. He also said that if Weldon said the measure would sary tests and treatments which medical person­ elections." included in the overall bill, the help establish a standardized Kirkland also scolded the lawmakers who nel may call for in order to protect themselves requirement could threaten the system." "missed the opportunity" to solve the health c^e from patient lawsuits. i)ill's passage in the Senate. After discussing the merchant The SIU continues to join with the AFL-CIO crisis. "There is no doubt who blocked this his­ Arguing in favor of the mer­ mariner document part of the bill, and its other fellow affiliate unions in calling for toric opportunity at change: a coalition of chant mariner documentation the committee took a roll call vote reform which guarantees comprehensive, ir­ hidebound Republicans dedicated to gridlock }lan was Representative Jack on the provision. The 30 to 15 revocable coverage for every U.S. citizen; dis­ and some members in both houses and of both Fields (R-Texas), ranking vote secured its inclusion in the tributes costs fairly and establishes cost-control parties who are willing to do the bidding of minority member of the commit­ overall bill, which was later' mechanisms; and does not tax any portion of special interests." Fields emphasized that re­ adopted by the full House. Action tee. health care benefits. During the often fierce debates over health quiring individuals who work on is now up to the Senate. Safety Bill Passes House p; J \y ' :-p • . "A-C.' . [ .;.v Session Ends Without Heaith Reform, But the Debate is Far from Finished (SE^-S^T^'W.. - § -i. " �r• '•- :•. /</-• ' y'yr .'• 12 SEAFARERS LOG OCTORER1994 Lundeberg Students Maintain Manitou Restoring JFK's Yacht Falls to New Generation Between exposure to the ele By putting in an average of 15 ments and deterioration from the hours per weekend, per person simple passage of time, it takes a along with some work on wee lot of work to keep the 62-foot nights, "We're seeing results, and yawl Manitou in good shape. it definitely helps to know we're Used by President John F making a difference," said Kennedy, Ae Manitou has been Hulstrom. "At the same time, part of the Paul Hall Center's flee don't really care about instant of historic sailing and power ves­ results. I'm looking at the long sels since 1968. term. From the time the former "We want people from future racing yacht first arrived at the classes to help, in the restora­ center's Lundeberg School of tion—people who are genuinely Seamanship in Piney Point, Md., interested in the Manitou itself, its many people have had a hand in history and seeing it brough its upkeep. During the late 1980s back." and early 1990s, SIU retirees The boat, which was built near Johnny Johnston and William Piney Point at the M.M. Davis Drew, both now deceased, took a and Sons yard in Solomons Is­ There Is no shortage of work to be done aboard the Manitou \o get It back Into shape, as Merle Wooley particular interest in the vessel's land, Md., is made of oak and is finds out as he helps strip the hull to prepare It for priming and then painting. history and maintenance. They carvel-built with a teak deck anc spent countless volunteer hours mahogany trim. It features bronze caring for the 57-year-old craft. and brass fastenings and deck Nowadays, the yawl often is in hardware. the hands of a group of Lun­ deberg School trainees who also Won Many Races stepped forth about 12 weeks ago Named for a stretch in north­ on their own to help refurbish it. eastern Lake Michigan where she Led by Brian Hulstrom (Class won several races during the 527), a self-described JFK buff 1930s and 1940s, the Manitou who wa«s familiar with the had a number of owners before Manitou long before he came to being donated to the U.S. Coast Piney Point, a half-dozen stu­ Guard in 1955. dents have been spending their Kennedy and his family began spare time getting the boat back sailing the vessel in 1963 and used into sailing condition. it often that summer. After the "We don't have much free president's death that November, time, but we work on the Manitou the Manitou was returned to the whenever possible," said Coast Guard Academy to resume Hulstrom, who often is joined by ler career as a training vessel. Sanding the teak deck are Brande Doton (left) and Harris DeCario. fellow students Merle Wooley, In 1968 the Lundeberg School Brande Doton, Rebecca Gaton, Lynford Robles and others. mrchased the Manitou from the "She's coming along," added graduating, I'm sorry to be leav­ "Something with that kind of his­ Defense Department Surplus Wooley. "Other students are ing before the work on the tory, it should be a landmark and Sales Agency in a closed bid. The taking an interest too, so hopeful- Manitou is done," said Hulstrom. it should be in top shape. We're K)at has been part of the school's y, as we graduate, others will "I'm looking forward to helping hoping that others will continue loating museum since. continue the work." out some more when I come back this tradition and will see that Like the volunteers who went to upgrade. Enjoying the Effort every little bit of effort can make before them, Hulstrom and his "But for now, the engine a difference." While none of the other stu­ leers said the biggest reward works fine and we'd really like to dents initially could match Tom their work is a feeling of get her in good enough shape that Plenty Of Work Julstrom's historical knowledge accomplishment. we can take her out. Even if it's The students have found no of the AfaniVou, they quickly 'To tell you the truth, as much just for five minutes, that's going Brian Hulstrom sands part of the shortage of tasks. Their work thus earned. They also expressed as I'm looking forward to to be our reward." yawl's Interior. far has included restoring the inte­ pride in being part of the boat's rior center cabin, staining, shining restoration. Floating Phosphorous from New Orleans to Tampa bronze and brass fixtures, sanding 'I feel I'm making a contribu­ and oiling the deck and more. tion to something that's Last month, the group stripped worthwhile," said Doton. "I knew the hull and primed it for painting. a little about the Manitou, plus I Seafarers aboard the tug Margaret They also had begun work on the ike working with wood and res­ S. Cooper (which also has a 300craft's electrical system. toring things." foot barge) recently transported phosphorous from the New Orleans area to Tampa, Fla. "It's off-shore work, much different from what smaller tugs do," explained Patrol­ man Steve Judd, who along with Patrolman Bob Milan serviced the vessel In New Orleans. Pictured at left are Engineer William Judd Sr., Steve Judd and AB William Judd Jr. Below, from left, are Deckhand Mike Maggett, Deckhand Eddie Moore, Steve Judd, Mate David Quelpo (an SIU hawse-piper). Cook A. Steven­ son and AB David Kuhlman. Fermin Morin peers out from a hatch as he checks the Manitou's electrical system. / �OCTOBER 1904 SEAFARERS LOG Seafarers aboard the Ready Reserve Force (RRF) vessel Cape Mohican last month were honored by the Maritime Ad­ ministration (MarAd) for their performance during extensive sealift exercises which took place from May to August at Naha, Okinawa and Pohang, Republic of Korea. SIU members, officers and of­ ficials from OMI Corp. (which operates the ship for MarAd) received the Administrator's Professional Ship Award during a ceremony aboard the Mohican in Norfolk, Va.—just two weeks before the ship was activated to support U.S. military operations in Haiti. Outstanding Performance In presenting the award, Mayank Jain, director of MarAd's South Atlantic region, commended the crewmembers for their "outstanding perfor­ mance." Jain said, "The crew was a testament that our maritime unions, like the Seafarers Interna­ tional Union and the American Maritime Officers, can supply first-rate, top-quality crews." He also noted the "superb operational record and readiness of the Cape Mohican, which has a history of successful service in both Desert Storm and in support of various Departmentof Defense exercises." Maritime Administrator Al­ bert J. Herberger, in a con­ gratulatory letter sent to the company, captain and crew, noted, "The high level of visibility of this exercise not only shows that national sealift remains important, but is of great value to this country. "I commend (all) personnel on their outstanding effort. They have proven once again what dedication, skill and determina­ tion can accomplish." SIU President Michael Sacco, also conveyed his congratulations to the crew through SIU Port Agent Mike Paladino, who repre- Caim Mohieatt Lauded For Rtrie bi Sealitt Exends^ ^„,N.STRATOR^^rESS,ON^ GREETINGS, BE IT KNOWN THAT THE READY RESERVE FORCE SHIP gapeJWphiran HAS EARNED SPECIAL RECOGNITION FOR PROFESSIONAL OPERATION AND EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE, SUPPORT OR READINESS DURING l&cmise 'lFS3Eim<m «AN\-SK ^--fococceptLoiinl stance in proinbtng catgo optratisns in eufipDrr oF ^tcciet WatNahtt.^oufg onbpohat^, TlUpublic of JSnrca, tiucin^ the ptcioi) Vna^ toAugust IPOT-. Septembers, IRg'F DATE The Administrator's Professional Ship award was given to the Cape Mohicanior exceptional service in providing cargo operations in support of Freedom Banner '94. sented the union at the ceremony. Sacco thanked the crew for thentremendous effort and a job well-done." The Mohican was honored for its work during Freedom Banner '94, part of MarAd's Joint Logis­ tics Over the Shore (JLOTS) ex­ ercises. "Basically, JLOTS are prac­ tices to get ready for real sealift operations," explained Bill Hellwege, who teaches the Lundeberg School's sealift prepared­ ness classes. "In some cases, all [U.S. Armed Forces] send equip­ ment out to the ships, which anchor and then try different loading and unloading opera­ tions." JLOTS operations nor­ mally have taken place once a year, beginning in 1986. Freedom Banner '94 to a large extent was spawned by recent tensions between the U.S. and North Korea. The U.S. Navy, Army and Marine Corps took part in the operations. The Mohican, a participant in several previous JLOTS drills, was tabbed to par­ ticipate because of its unique design and demonstrated ver­ satility. Built 21 years ago in Mas­ sachusetts, the Mohican (as well as its sister ships. Cape Men­ docino and Cape May) was operated commercially until 1986, when it was turned over to MarAd. Since then, the vessel's cargocarrying configuration has been enhanced to bolster its role as a military lighterage carrier. For example, additional pedestals have been added to all decks to allow the ship to carry undersized lighterage, and container adapter frames (originally designed for carrying containers while the ship was in commercial use) have been modified to allow transport of many different types of 13 military lighterage. The Mohican is 875 feet long, 106 feet wide and has a maximum draft of 39 feet when fully loaded. The ship displaces 57,290 tons and has a service speed of 19.25 knots. The vessel also features a state-of-the-art firefighting sys­ tem and a 2,000 ton selfsynchronizing elevator which is capable of lifting two barges simultaneously. Because the Mohican's barges can be removed, the ship during military support missions has car­ ried a wide range of materiel, in­ cluding tug boats, fuel storage containers, tanks and jeeps. Seafarers who crewed the Mohican during some or all of Freedom Banner '94 include Bosun Andrew Mack, ABs Gary White, Thomas Votsis, Llndsey Rhodes, Frank Adams, Albert Alexander, and John Cartes Jr. and OSs Patrick Carter, Troy Mack and Martin Josephson Jr. Manning the engine depart­ ment were Electricians Samuel Monroe and Donald Christian, Oilers Clarence Mosley, Jeffrey Stuart and John Robinson and DEUs Castel Blunt and William Prince. The galley gang was com­ prised of Chief Steward Tannous Bachir, Chief Cook Robert Allen and SAs Marjorie Mack, Anthony Houston .and Mohamed Saleh. •S i'' . .. : •-.'•'y '•i Honorees and guests await the start of the ceremony, which took place last month in Norfolk, Va. si' Representatives from the SIU, the American Maritime Officers and OMI Corp. accept the MarAd award during a ceremony aboard the Cape Mohican. Pictured from left are Bosun Andrew Mack, SIU Port Agent Mike Paladino, Captain Paul Foran, William Hogg, VP of OMI Ship Management, and AMO Rep. John Adams. Helping make the CapeMohicana good feeder are, from left. Steward Prior to the award ceremony. Seafarers meet with SIU Port Agent Mike Paladino to discuss union matters. Assistants Mohamed Saleh and Marjorie Mack and Chief Steward Pictured from left to right are (front row) AB Thomas Votsis, Paladino, Bosun Andrew Mack and DEU William Prince, (back row) AB Gary White, Electrician Donald Christian and AB Frank Adams. Tannous Bachir. '.. J: / 'i ./ , f: './'lliy. ... �14 OCTOBER 1994 SEAFAnaiS LOG With the SIU at Guadalcanal: A War Diary by James M. Smith where we are now anchored. She is Sealark Channel with destroyer es­ hands won't heal in this climate, operations at noon Friday, on the beach, but probably can be cort. 0700: anchored off beach and and some of the troops who have Christmas Day. There is a great dif­ salvaged although the No. 1 and began discharging cargo into bar­ been here for several months look ference between the soldiers and the Marines. Of course, they No. 4 holds are ripped open and the ges. 1430: a red flag runs up over bad. haven't been through boot camp, sea is washing in and out with the on the beach, signal lights blink Tulagi harbor is a beautiful and Fm probably prejudiced, but I tide. Aboiit 1,000 yards to seaward rapidly for a moment. Condition place, scenically, and would make get the imjiression that this certain corporal and of us are six destroyers patrolling R^! Air attack! a fine resort if it wasn't for the is somewhat lacking in battalion as an expert slowly back and forth. The word is terrific heat. Green-clad mountains offensive spirit. of 50-caliber that they have sunk two subs in the surround the harbor, and small, machine last few days. jungle-covered islands dot the sur­ guns. face of the bay. There are some This stretch of water, the 25 In Sep­ miles between here and Tulagi har­ sunken ships although most traces tember of bor and Florida Island, is known as of the severe fighting that took place here in August between the that year, the Torpedo Junction. Florida Island is Almost immediately, several James M. Smith Germans visible in the distance. It is here, in 1st Raider Bn. and the Japs have were attack- this narrow strait that the big naval squadrons of P-38s and Gruman disappeared. Some of the crew have As we left for our anchorage at ing their neighbors, and the build­ battles have taken place in the past Wildcats roar into the air, climbing got some good souvenirs from the Tulagi this evening, the Army's steeply. All barges pull away from up for WWII was under way. As a few months. Smashed up ships, natives, but so far I have not been 155s opened up and began shelling Marine. Smith had taken a course both Allied and Jap, litter the whole the ship and we get under way so fortunate. the Jap-held ridge to the north. before the anchor is completely in basic electricity and thus was vicinity. I'm even beginning to doubt if They put over quite a barrage and raised. We get out in the channel well situated to take advantage of Along the flat, coconut-lined we shall be back in the States by the soldiers say that they keep it up the opportunity to take the U.S. beach from here to Lunga Point is where we can maneuver and make February at the rate we are going. all night, every night. What a rack­ a moving target. Four destroyers Commerce Department exam for where the 1st Marine Division, in­ Over on Cactus, the Marines and et. I'm glad I'm not a Jap oh that cruise around watching for subs, an electrician's endorsement. CBs are taking 4-to-I odds that we cluding my old outfit—A Co. 1st Brother Smith continued to sail Bn. 5th Marines—made their land- and all guns are manned and ready. get this rust-bucket sunk in the next ridge. Last Sunday I went ashore at The Marine fighters stopped the during WWII, the Korean conflict ing on August 8. The entire area is 10 days. Nuts to those guys! Tulagi for a look around the island. bombers over 10 miles away and and the early part of the Vietnam ripped and riddled from gunfire. They've been up there in the boon­ war and upgraded at the union's There is hardly a top of a tree left, shot down about 14 of them. The docks too long. They're hoping we I went out to the small island con­ school in Brooklyn to third assis­ and the tree trunks are slashed with last we saw of the Japs was two get sunk. Then we'd have to come nected by a causeway where the Japs had a fortified position around bombers going into the clouds with tant engineer. ashore and camp in their mud holes their machine shops. The place has shrapnel. a swarm of fighters after them. I During part of his seafaring ^ dive-bom^ unUl don't know if we lost any or not, but under (he trees instead of sMiig ctnt years, he kept a journal. Last month here with good food, iced drinks there isn't a square foot that hasn't some of the 8th Marines that have the Seafarers LOG published Part been hit. The stench from planted been here over a month say they and clean beds. I of his narrative from aboard the The air raids we have every day Japs is still strong. I didn't stay will return tomorrow. Some of our SS Del Brasil. This is the remaining gun crews are disappointed that aren't as bad as they may sound long. portion. they didn't get to fire a single since the Japs seldom get by our December 23. We were at Marine fighters offshore. When Guadalcanal all day and Tulagi all round. Guadalcanal, 1942 Henderson Field is just beyond 1530: back at anchor, worked one does, we keep him so high with night. You sure could tell there was the palm groves, and they have built December 8. It's a small cargo. 1550: received signal from our anti-aircraft guns that he can't a war on today! I watcjied our artil­ a fighter strip about a mile away. world. Today I heard that a former lery lay down heavy barrages along destroyer—submarine contact; do any accurate bombing. Planes are roaring in and out all day December 20. Tonight there Marine was in the Held hospital, the ridge and Marine fighters straf­ bearing 180 degrees. A few depth "Cub One." Gunnery Sgt. Harold long from both fields. Over near the charges, and back to work. 1630: is a "bomber's moon" shining and ing the Japs all day. There was a See and I were both PFCs on the fighter strip sortie Gruman fighters under way for Tulagi where we are the stars are twinkling in a clear great deal of air activity, but I Houston. He made corporal about lie where they were smashed up in now anchored. We will be here at blue sky. A very beautiful sight, no haven't found out yet just what is the time I got off. When I saw him a terrific naval shelling a couple of least two weeks unloading, maybe doubt, what with the South Sea Is­ going on. I suppose the Japs are today, he sure looked bad. Said he weeks ago. The whole place is more. trying to get reinforcements in was on Cactus for 108 days, and ankle deep in mud, and there are air again. I always invite Marines who during one firefight, his Marines attacks almost every night. From used to be my shipmates out to the ' There hasn't been much sniping had the Japs stacked up five deep the ship I can see the Jap positions ship for some chow and a shower. around here lately, but like Gunny along the riverbank. I asked Harold in the hills to the west—with field They look at my quarters with its See said, "Ya gotta watch 'em, if those Japs were as tough as we glasses, of course, since they are private toilet and shower, clean boy." I got a fake Jap battle flag have heard. He just shook his head about eight miles away. sheets, innerspring mattress, etc. from a Marine today for a can of land romance and all that stuff. But Everything is quiet so far today. and said, "You gotta watch 'em, beer. It's well made of parachute It's always, "Hey, Smitty, how the boy. You gotta watch 'em!" I hear that there is to be a big opera­ hell do you rate this?" Sometimes I just try lighting a cigarette on cloth with fine stitching. There are Tomorrow they are putting him on tion by the Army units tomorrow- feel a bit ambivalent about my job deck—against orders! Some Jap a lot of them around the area. the USS Solace for a trip to the trying to get the Japs off that ridge. as chief electrician since I am a sniper over in the jungle will take a December 24, Christmas pot shot at you before the match At 0800 some men from the 2nd States. He is one tough Marine! qualified expert rifleman, BAR and goes out. They never hit anyone, Eve. Tulagi Harbor, Solomon Is­ On the way back to the ship from Raider Bn. and some CBs came 50-cal. machine gun—to say noth­ lands. Over at Guadalcanal today I Cub One, I hitched a ride in a jeep. aboard to work cargo. .These ing of experience on a 5-inch 25. but it does get tense. December 22. This past met some old shipmates in the 2nd Who should be driving but Lt. Marines are from the battalion that But what die hell, you can get killed Marines. During the afternoon, we Baker (now captain) who was Pit. last month killed 400Japs with only just as dead out here on the ship as weekend was uneventful with only had one air raid. It was very hot Lt. of 2nd Platoon of A/1/5 when I 17 casualties. Some of them have you can up there on the ridge. With one air raid and no damage done. again today although we had a rain was at Quantico in the FMF. Arriv­ malaria (who doesn't?) and most all this ammo and gasoline on Sunday, our marine air outfit took squall just before Condition Red ing at the beach, I returned to the have jungle sores that won't heal on board, right now we're no doubt off from Henderson Field and sounded. Two Marines from the 8th ship in a Higgins boat. The their arms and legs. They say the much nearer the Pearly Gates than bombed the Japs up at Munda. In Regiment came down from the coxswain turned out to be Navy Japs are in awful condition, and we are the Golden Gate. Be that as the afternoon, a PBY came in with front line and had dinner with me. seaman Stinson. He was my neigh­ now that they are isolated, they are it may, I surely didn't think I would 14 Jap prisoners and an Australian After dinner they went back up and bor in Mobile, Ala. last fall when slowly starving to death. Still, they be doing my Xmas shopping on woman. The first white woman I've rejoined their unit. They said they seen down here in the Solomons. the Japs attacked Pearl Harbor. Old won't surrender to a Marine and Guadalcanal this year! seem to prefer to be shot At 1630 The word is that she has been up on have been up there for 21 days and home week. December 19. Last Monday are starting a big operation tomor­ we got under way for Tulagi with a December 11. Finally under destroyer escort. We have to come morning we had some difficulty New Georgia with her radio set for row, Christmas Day. way for Guadalcanal at 0800. Our over here every night or be tor­ getting the anchor up, missed our the past few months working for MI as a coast watcher. She is about 40 convoy consists of two cargo/troop Tin Can escort, and so have been years old and looks like she has had pedoed. Ships escorted by four destroyers. lying here in Tulagi harbor all a tough time. The Jap prisoners December 14. About 2300 Yesterday the cruiser New Orleans week. We have had two air raids came in with bomb damage on her last night "Washing Machine Char­ almost every day and no one seems were all tied together and scared stem, but she's still combat ready. lie" came over as usual and dropped to know what's going on. About stiff; they look to be about 18 or 19 Worked all day getting lights and several bombs. He is flying a twin 1,000 miles to the west. Dugout years old. I don't know where they Well, things are quiet over here cargo winches ready for working engine "Betty" with un- Doug's Aussies and Americans are came from. This morning we got under way at Tulagi this evening, but it doesn't cargo under combat conditions. synchronized engines. Thus, the pounding the Japs at Buna. Tonight there are Jap subs reported name. A Navy CPO aboard told me Meanwhile, 150 miles north of at 0430 and proceeded across the seem like Christmas Eve. Everyin the area, so we are pushing our that one of the bombs hit a PT boat, here, the Japs are building a field at channel to Guadalcanal to begin thing is all blacked out and there's steam turbines at full speed with all but that is the first damage he has Munda and preparing for an attack unloading. At last! No air raids no celebrating or anything. The gun today, although during a work crews are all standing by since we nozzles open. I'm bushed, so I'm done for several weeks. on this place to try to retake it. break I watched our B-17s bombing ^e expecting "Washing Machine Later this morning, at about going to hit the sack and cruise at Well, here it is five days until about 40 fathoms for a few hours. 0330, a Jap they call "Reveille Joe" Christmas, and we have hardly a Jap position about eight miles Charlie" in a little while. This being Never mind the submarines: if came over along the Guadalcanal started to discharge our cargo. I froin the ship. Yesterday, a CB was a special night for us, he may bring you're gonna get it< you're gonna side of the channel. They made it so have had the fever all week and feel driving a truckload of land mines some of his friends, hot with anti-aircraft fire that he awful. The temperature is about when he had a collision with December 25. Friday, get it. took off without dropping his 110 degrees on deck and over 120 another track. We heard the ex- Christmas Day. Up at0315 to stand December 13. Arrived at Guadalcanal at 0700 and anchored bombs. We could* see the AA fire degrees in theengineroom. It seems plosion at Tulagi, 23 miles away, by anchor control for getting under The soldiers who are working way. There was a fresh morning about 150 yards offshore. Inshore from where we were—very impres­ that everyone is getting malaria in from us is a C-2 type cargo ship that sive! spite of the atabrine we take. The cargo on the ship today are 0430: under way back across small cuts and scratches on my scheduled to take over combat ConHnued on page 21 was torpedoed last week right Pensioner James M. Smith joined the SIU in Baltimore in August 1939 immediately after leaving the • r. •i .. �. . .• •,! .; • •;',."sv, •. ;••• ; .•• y^ 0CrmBI1994 SOFAKKUm Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea —— November i [tebembm 19S4 . Membemhip Meetings j^ep Sea, Lakes, InlandWaters AUGUST 16 — SEPTEMBER 15.1994 •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Trip Reliefs DECK DEPARTMENT 11 5 ••REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C I 9., , .12 i Piney Point Monday; November 7, December 5 New York ^esday* November 8, December 6 _ Philadelphia Wednesday: November 9, December 7 Baltimore Thursday: November 10, December 8 Norfolk Thursday: November 10, December S Jacksonville Thursday: November 10, December 8 ' Algonac Monday: November 14* Friday: December 9 .•S'' • cluinged byVeterans De^ holiday 0 0 0 195 200 50 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 20 ~ -»™_ 4 4 1 n Norfolk Mobile 8 New Orleans 13 Jacksonville 14 pan Francisco lA II Seattle 12 Puerto Rico 6 IHonoIulu 6 Houston St Louis ws Piney Point Algonac Totals Port Philadelphia C Baltimore 6 Norfolk 4 Mobile 4 New Orleans 6 ladcsonville 9 Sim Francisco 30 Wilmington 10 Seattle Puerto Rico Honolulu Houston St. Louis Algonac Totals Port New York Philadelphia Baltimore Norfolk Mobile New Orleans lijaiksbnville |San FianciScb Wilmington Seattle Puerto Rico Honolulu ' ittdustoh St. Louis Kney Point Algonac Totals Totals All aents566 mM Houston Monday: November 14, December 12 NewOrleans Tuesday: November 15, December 13 Mobile Wednesday: November 16, December 14 f ' '' San Francisco f: Thursday: November 17, December 15 Wifanington Monday: November 21, December 19 • "amiA'... Seattle oeanie . , Friday: November 25, December 23 I Sail Jtian Thursday: November 10, December 8 I. St Louis Friday: November 18^ Elecember 16 fiiiiiSf Honolulu ' Friday: November 18, December 16 Duluth Wednesday: November 16, December 14 Jersey Ci^ Wednesday: November 23, December 21 New Bedford Tuesday: November 22, December 20 •? . /••'.A:. •••• 1 ' I I •' A- ^ • 1 \ i: 0 0 110 113 ^ ^TEWARD DEPARTMENT 10 1 0 2 0 456 516 128 141 904 1326 57. Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last mnnth A total of 1,241 jobs were shipped on SlU-contracted deep sea vessels. Of the 1241 iobs shinnoH • k orabout37 percent were ta^^^^ •• A;.- Ewth port's meeting sbirts at m^ajn. Personals ALLEN CAMPBELL ^ Please contact Brian Campbell at 33 Union 935^6 or call (201) 37^8^1 TOM CASEY Werner collect at (618) DEBBIE MAHLER Samuels at Si . D . at 980 52nd Street, Brooklyn, NY 11219^002-80. KENNETH MULDERIG Please contact Mrs. Helen Prevatt at Star NORBERTO "ALBERT" PINEDA Please contact Laura Hand Comilsen at 406 G^t Avenue, Rock Falls, XL 61071. Your sister IS 111. LEONARDO SINISI Seb^F^°3"?^o'-^ SIU TRAINEE CLASS 527 Carol Davis and Tom Kuss of the Claims to thank snPPOrt and help in getting their possessions into storage after a fire swept through their house on September 5. "In all foat rush, dirt, smoke, smell and water you packed and moved it all without breaking one thing. We can t even or ever begin to thank you We can wish you a wonderful life and smwjth sailing. You 11 always be in our prayers." -..>1 .' y. K .. 'i- • AAAA,;';... �0CWRER1994 16 SEAFARERS LOG Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes Seafarers International Unkm Directory MfehaelSacco President JduiFay Secretary-Treasurer JosephSarxo Executive Vice President AugiistinTdlez Vice PresidentCollective Bargaining George McCarbiey Vice President West Coast Roy A. **80011" Mercer Vice President Government Services JackCaffey Vice President Atlantic Coast Byron Kelley Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters DeanCorgey Vice President Gutf Coast HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301)899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr. Algonac, MI 48001 (810)794-4988 BALTIMORE 1216 E. Baltimore St. Baltimore, MD 21202 (410)327-4900 DULUTH 705 Medical Arts Building Duluth, MN 55802 (218)722-4110 HONOLULU 606KalihiSt. Honolulu, HI 96819 (808)845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St. Houston, TX 77002 (713)659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St. JacksonvUle, FL 32206 (904)353-0987 JERSEY CITY 99 Montgomery St. JerseyCity,NJ 07302 (201)435-9424 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy. Mobile, AL 36605 (205)478-0916 NEWBEDFORD 48 Union SL New Bedford, MA 02740 (508)997-5404 NEW ORLEANS 630 Jackson Ave. NewOrleans, LA 70130 (504)529-7546 NEWYORK 635 Fourth Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718)499-6600 NORFOLK 115ThirdSL Norfolk, VA 23510 (804)622-1892 PHILADELPHIA AUGUST 16 — SEPTEMBER 15,1994 CL—Company/Lakes L—^Lakes NP WL REGISTERED aassCL^CpaLTciassNP I2 27i 0 Port Algonac Port Algonac 16 ^ ClsssC^S^L OassNP 21 0*'"""' 13 QassCL CassL CassNP DECK DEPARTMENT 0 25 7 ^ ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 n 13 . . -. , STEVl^ARD DEPARTMENT 0 7 4 ENTRY DEPARTMENT i#'- BEACH TOTALSHIPFED 0 0 0 38 0 m. 0 25 74 91 0 24 Totals All Departments 0 61 39 0 43 * "Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. ** "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters AUGUST 16 — SEPTEMBER 15,1994 •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Cl^ A Class B Class C Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals - ofjiA *; 4 St Philadelphia,"PA 19148 (215)336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75 Piney Point, MD 20674 (301)994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 2 West Dixie Highway Dania, FL 33004 (305)921-5661 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St. San Francisco, CA 94105 (415)543-5855 Government Services Division (415)861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16Vi Santurce, PR 00907 (809)721-4033 SEATTLE 2505 First Ave. Seattle, WA 98121 (206)441-1960 ST. LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave. SL Louis, MO 63116 (314)752-6500 WILMINGTON 5ION. Broad Ave. Wilmington, CA 90744 (310)549-4000 48 1 55 0 7 0 3 10 0 7 0 22 29 ""1. 23 0 25 0 1 0 0 1 0 2 0 0 2 • '3-' 0 0 0 0 0 1 3 .3^:; 0 7 , 0 3 0 5 8 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B QassC DECK DEPARTMENT 0 0 ' 1 4 4 2 0 1 19 47 4 87 51 9 109 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 8 1 0 0 0 3 8 1 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 3 0 1 0 0 4'' 3 0 i 6 0 6 ••REGISTERED ON BEACH AH Groups Class A Class B Class C 27 7 49 3 86 • •• 3 12 0 18 - f 7 0 0 2 32 0 37 4 0 21 0 46 67 2 11 0 5 18 0 2 0 1 3 10 16 m 6 w-fsm 90 25 141 60 10 123 39 87 11 Totals All Departments "Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. ** "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. SlUBULLETIM % PUBLIC HEALTH s RECORDS AVAILABLE Members who were treated at United States Public Health Service Hospitals may obtain their medical records by writing to PHS Health Data Center, OWL Hansen's Disease Center, Car- > ville, LA 70721. To make sure arequest is answered quickly, be sure to include the name, date of birth, social security number, the facility where treatment g was received and the approximate dates « of treatment for the individual in ques- ff tion. PAY VOUCHERS NEEDED WITH SOME VACATION APPLICATIONS Seafarers who have sailed aboard military vessels should provide copies of their pay vouchers when filing for vacation benefits related to employment. U.S. Coast Guard discharges do not show exact dates of employment, so the pay vouchers must be sub­ mitted as well. Applications submitted without ^ PORT ARTHUR, TEXAS ^ copies of pay vouchers will be held MEMBERSHIP MEETING i in a pending status until the proper ON NOVEMBER 2 1 verification is received. % § A general informational Seafarers membership meeting will be held on Wednesday, November 2, 1994 at 2:00 5 p.m. It will take place at the Ramada Inn on Highway 87 in Port Arthur. Contact the Houston SlU hall for fur­ ther information. FLU SHOTS BEING GIVEN IN PORT OF SEATTLE Virginia Mason Clinic will offer flu ? shots on Tuesday, November 8, 1994, between 9:00 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. and between 1:(X) p.m. and 3:00 p.m. at the Seattle union hall, located at 2505 1st Avenue. In order to expedite the necessary ' paperwork, it is requested that each ; member call the hall one week prior to Novembers (telephone206-441-1960) if he or she intends to receive a shot. To utilize this benefit, a member must be qualified under the rules of the plan. He or she must bringproo/o/720 days seatime for 1993 and one day employment after May 14,1994. (There are no exceptions to this rule.) •; •w �OCTOBER 1994 SEAFARERS LOG T he Seafarers Pension Plan this month announced the retirements of 21 SIU members who have completed their careers as U.S.-flag merchant mariners. Ten of those signing off sailed in the deep sea division, seven sailed the inland waterways, and one worked in the Railroad Marine division. Among those joining the ranks of the retirees is Brother Sam Thorny Brooks who graduated from the bosun recertification course at the Lundeberg School in Piney Ppint, Md. Nine of the retiring Seafarers served in the U.S. military— five in the Army and four in the Navy. Of all the Seafarers signing off.this month, Brother Victor Tamulis sailed the longest, having joined the union in 1948 in the port of New York. Brief biological sketches of Brothers Brooks, Tamulis and the others follow. DEEP SEA SAM THOMAS BROOKS, 62, a grad­ uate of the Andrew Fiiruseth Training School, Joined the Seafarers in 1963 in the port of New Orleans. Bom in Georgia, he sailed in the deck department. Brother Brooks in­ structed lifeboat and AB classes at Piney Point and was appointed port agent for a period of time in New York under Paul Hall. He frequently upgraded at the Lundeberg School and completed the bosun recertification course in 1974. He served in the U.S. Army from 1948 to 1955. Brother Brooks retired to Las Vegas, Nev. GREGORIO LOPEZ HER­ NANDEZ, JR., 59, began his sailing career with the SIU in 1962 in the port of Houston. The Texas native sailed in the deck department. Brother Hernandez served in the U.S. Army from 1956 to 1957. He has retired to his native state. RAFAEL LUIS LUGO, 50, a native of Puerto Rico, began sailing with the union in 1967 in the port of New York. Brother Lugo graduated from the Andrew Furuseth Training School in New York. He sailed in both the deck and engine departments. Brother Lugo upgraded his skills at the Lundeberg School. He served in the U.S. Army from 1965 to 1967. Brother Lugo currently resides in New York. CARL MARGIN, 65,joined the Seafarers in 1972 in the port of Detroit, Mich. Brother Marcin started sailing in the Great Lakes division. He then trans­ ferred to the deep sea division, sailing in the deck department. Brother Marcin served in the U.S. Army from 1946 to 1948. He makes his home in New York. department in both the Great Laikes and inland divisions. Brother O'Connor served in the U.S. Navy from 1948 to 1952. He continues to reside in Ohio. To Our New Pensioners ... Thanks for a Job Well Done Each month in the Seafarers LOG, the names of SIU members who recently have become pensioners appear with a brief biographical sketch. These men and women have served the maritime industry well, and the SIU and all their union brothers and sisters wish them happiness and health in the days ahead. CLARENCE VICTOR MASON, 65, bom in Wisconsin, joined the SIU in 1969 in the port of Duluth, Minn. He started sailing in the Great Lakes division, then moved to deep sea ships as a member of the engine department. Brother Mason served in the U.S. Army from 1947 to 1%2. He has retired to Wisconsin. AMIN BEN RAJAB HI, 54, joined the union in 1973 in the port of New York. He sailed in the deck depart­ ment. Brother Rajab frequently upgraded his skills at the Lun­ deberg School. He lives in his na­ tive New York. RAMON A. REYES, 57, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1964 in the port of New York. The Puerto Rican native sailed in the deck depart­ ment. Brother Reyes has retired to New York. VICTOR TAMULIS, 67, began sailing with the SIU in 1948 in the port of New York. He sailed in both the inland and deep sea divisions as a member of the deck depart­ ment. Brother Tamulis served in the U.S. Navy from 1944 to 1946. A native of Massachusetts, he currently resides in Texas. 1974 in the port of Norfolk, Va. He sailed in the deck department. Boatman Dize served in the U.S. Coast Guard from 1951 to 1954. He has retired to the state of his birth, Virginia. ALEJO COLLAZO, 62, a native of Puerto Rico, joined the Seafarers in 1976. Boatman Collazo sailed in the steward department. He last worked aboard Crowley Towing & Transportation vessels. Boatman Collazo lives in Florida. FREDERICK GLAD­ STONE JR., 65, a native of Maryland, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1970 in the port of Baltimore. He sailed in the steward department. Boatman Gladstone served in the U.S. Navy from 1946 to 1969. He con­ tinues to call Maryland home. ELDON OTTO MAR­ SHALLJR, 69, joined the union in 1968 in the port of St. Louis, Mo. Boatman Marshall sailed in the engine department. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to 1945. Bom in Indiana, Boatman Marshall continues to make his home there. 17 NORMAN E. MOENNICH,61,a native of Ohio, joined the Seafarers in 1961 in the port of Cleveland. He sailed in the deck depart­ ment—first in the Great Lakes division and then transferring to the inland division. He currently resides in Ohio. JOSEPH SELF, 64, joined the union in 1958 in the port of Hous­ ton. He sailed in the deck depart­ ment. Boatman Self worked aboard National Marine ves­ sels. He has retired to his native Texas. GREATLAKES ROBERT E. BERTRAND, 65, began sail­ ing with the SIU in 1977 in the port of Alpena, Mich. He was a mem­ ber of the steward department. ITie Michigan native continues to make his home in that state. GERALD J. O'CONNOR, 62,joined the SIU in 1964 in the port of Cleveland. He sailed in the engine WILLIAM EARL WILCOX, 62, a native of Michigan, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1961 in the port of Detroit. He was a meniber of the deck department, sailing in both the inland and Great Lakes divisions. He calls Michigan home. RAILROAD MARINE ROBERT E. CALLIS, 66, joined the SIU in 1960 in the port of Nor­ folk, Va. Brother Callis graduated from the Pilot - Inland Upgrad­ ing Program at the Lundeberg School in 1973. He served in the U.S. Army from 1946 to 1947. Brother Callis continues to reside in Virginia. ' CORRECTIONS SAMUEL L. LOFTIN, 61, joined the union in 1959 as a boatman, not in 1965, as printed in the September Seafarers LOG. The photographs of JOHN S. MONACO and ALFRED ZAPOLNEK were acciden­ tally switched in last month's LOG. The correct identifica­ tion follows. JOHNS. MONACO, 61, joined the SIU in 1961 in the port of Cleveland, Ohio. He sailed in the deck department. '•4 ALFRED ZAPOLNEK, 71, began sailing with the union in 1948 in the port of Algonac, Mich, in the en­ gine department. Guayama Galley Gang on the Go ELTON WILDE, 57, joined the union in 1958 in the port of New Orleans. He sailed in both the engine and steward departments. Bom in Pennsylvania, Brother Wilde makes his home in Mississippi. GLENN M. WINCHES­ TER, 59, a graduate of the Andrew Fumseth Training School, oined the union in 1963 in the port of New York. He sailed in the engine department. Bom in Colorado, Brother Winchester calls Califor­ nia home. INLAND BENNIE GREENWOOD DIZE, 62, joined the SIU in . ?: • •i rFrom storing to preparing, the Guayama's gal­ ley gang knows the business of handling food. Above; Chief Steward Ruben Padilla checks stores while the PRMMI vessel is docked in Port Elizabeth, N.J. Right: Chief Cook Osvaldo Rios prepares lunch for the crew. •- . •llAi -"i. �18 OCnmER 1994 SEAFAREHS UIG Final Departures DEEP SEA PEDRO F. ALVAREZ Pensioner Pedro F. Al­ varez, 88,^ passed away August 8. Bom in the Philippine Is­ lands, he joined the Seafarers in 1960 in the port of Seattle. Brother Alvarez sailed in the steward department. He began receiving his pension in December 1981. GIOVANNjl T. AQUINO Pensioner Giovanni T. Aquino, 68, died August 1. A native of New York, he began sailing with the SlU in 1969 in the port of Jack­ sonville, Fla. He sailed in both the deep sea and inland divisions as a member of the steward department. Brother Aquino graduated from the steward recertification course in May 1982 at the Lundeberg School. He served in the U.S. Marine Coips from 1943 to 1946. Brother Aquino retired in March 1990. JOHN J. BAPTISTA Pensioner John J. Baptista, 92, died June 29. He joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1920, before that union merged with the SlU's Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and In­ land Waters District (AGLIWD). Brother Baptista retired in Novem­ ber 1963. BENIGNO BAUTISTA Pensioner Benigno Bautista, 89, died Septem­ ber 1. Bom in the Philippine Islands, he began sailing with the Seafarers in 1941 in the port of Savannah, Ga. Brother Bautista sailed in the steward department. He began receiving his pension in May 1971. ALFRED T. BERGE Pensioner Alfred T. Berge, 80, passed away July 6. A na­ tive of Nor­ way, he joined the union in 1960 in the port of Detroit, Mich. He sailed in both the deep sea and Great Lakes divisions as a member of the deck depart­ ment. Brother Berge retired in December 1976. RICHARD J. BOLES Pensioner Richard J. Boles, 74, died August 24. Bom in In­ diana, he began sailing with the SIU in 1943 in the port of Nor­ folk, Va. Brother Boles sailed in the deck department. He began receiving his pension in November 1981. EUGENE A. BOUSSON Pensioner Eugene A. Bousson, 70, passed away August 28. A native of NewYork City, he joined the SIU in 1964 in the port of New York. Brother Bousson sailed in the deck department. He upgraded frequently at the Lun­ deberg School and completed the recertified bosun program in 1976. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1940 to 1952. Brother Bousson retired in July 1989. EDWARD L.BROADUS Edward L. Broadus, 60, passed away July 30. Bom in Alabama, he began sail­ ing with the union in 1964 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Brother Broadus sailed in the deck department. CHARLES C. BROWN Pensioner Charles C. Brown, 67, died Septem­ ber 8. A na­ tive of North Carolina, he began sailing with the Seafarers in 1952 in the port of Baltimore. He sailed in the deck department Brother Brown began receiving his pension in August 1973. JOSEPH M. BRYAN Joseph M. Bryan, 41, passed away August 31. Bom in Florida, he signed on with the SIU in 1978 in the Port of Piney Point, Md. after completing the In­ land Towboat Program at the Lun­ deberg School. He retumed to the school for further upgrading and transferred to the deep sea division. Brother Bryan sailed in the deck department. JOHNJ.BURCHINAL Pensioner John J. Burchinal, 71, died July 31. A native of Pennsylvania, he joined the union in 1953 in the port of New York. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Burchinal served in the U.S. Navy from 1941 to 1945. He retired in October 1986. WILBERTF.(PETE) CAILLET WilbertF. (Pete) Caillet, 80, passed away June 25. He was bom in New Bal­ timore, Mich, and began his sailing career with the SIU in 1941 in the jmrt of New York. Brother Caillet sailed in the deck department through 1954. In the 1950s he sailed with Delta Line on the Del Sud. Brother Caillet is sur- vived by 7 children. 12 grand­ children. one sister and tivc nieces. 1944 He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth. CALVIN L. CHERRY Pensioner Cal­ vin L. Cherry. 69. died August 28. Bomin Texas, he began sailing with the SlU • in 1960 iti the port of Hous­ ton as a member of the steward department. Brother Cherry began receiving his pension in Febniary . 1989. CHARLEYS M. HALL Charles M Hall, 73. passed away August 28. 1994. A native of Ohio, he began his sailing career with the Seafarers in 1944 in the port of New Yoik. He sailed in tlie steward department. TADEUSZ CHILINSKI Pensioner Tadeusz Chilinski, 75, died August 5. Brother Chilinski joined the union in 1942 in the port of New York. He was bom in Poland and became a naturalized U.S. citizen. Brother Chilinski sailed in the deck depart­ ment. He graduated from the bosun recertification course at the Lun­ deberg School in 1975. Brother Chilinski retired in August 1984. HENRY L. DURHAM Pensioner Henry L. Durham, 70, died August 29. Bom in Ok­ lahoma, he joined the Seafarers in 1961 in the port of Houston. He sailed in the steward department. Brother Durham began receiving his pension in November 1985. MANUEL EDEJER Manuel Edejer, 60, passed away July 5. Brother Edejer sailed in the deck department. Born in the Philippine Is­ lands, he resided in Alameda, Calif, and sailed out of the port of San Francisco. Brother Edejer is survived by his wife, Loretta T. Edejer. EDWARD J. ESTEVE Pensioner Ed­ ward J. Esteve, 68, died August 7. Brother Esteve began his sailing career with the SIU in 1944 in his home port of New Orleans, La. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Esteve retired in June 1978. FRANCES FERNANDES Frances Fernandes, 88, passed away July 26,1993. Bom in British Guiana (now Guyana), he joined the union in 1955 in the port of New York. Brother Femandes sailed in the engine department. DAVID D. FERREIRA David D. Ferreira, 69, died July 6. Brother Ferreira joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1943, before that union merged with the SlU'S AGLIWD. He was bom in Hawaii. Brother Ferreira served in the U.S. military from 1942 to r CHARLES I. HAMPSON Pensioner Charles 1. Hampson, 68, died July 29. Bom in Brooklyn. N.Y.,he joined the SIU in 1959 in his home port after graduating from the Andrew Fumseth Training School. He sailed in both the engine and steward departments. Brother Hampson upgraded at the Lun­ deberg School and was a winner in the Seafarers Safety Poster Contest of 1960-1961. Brother Hampson served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to 1946. He began receiving his pension in August 1991. CHARLES C. HEMP Pensioner Charles C. Hemp, 67, passedaway August 31, 1994. He began sailing with the union in 1966 in the port of Duluth, Minn. Bom in Virginia, Brother Hemp started out in Great Lakes and transferred to deep sea. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Hemp often upgraded at the Lun­ deberg School in Piney Point, Maryland. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1943 to 1966. Brother Hemp retired in September 1992. ISABEL "IZZY" HERNANDEZ Isabel "Izzy" Hemandez, 63, passed away Septem­ ber 15,1993. Bom in Texas, he began sailing with the SIU in 1961 in the port of Houston. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Heman­ dez is survived by his wife, Gloria. LUIGIIOVINO Pensioner Luigi lovino, 64, died August 22. He began his career with the SIU in 1946, sailing in both the deck and steward departments before com­ ing ashore as a patrolman in New York in I96I. Brother lovino was involved in many union actions during his tenure with the SIU. Prior to his retirement in 1981, he served as port agent in Wil­ mington, Calif. Brother lovino was buried at St. Charles Cemetery in East Rockaway, N.Y. He is sur­ vived by his wife, Grace, and two daughters. LARRY J. KLARSTROM Larry J. Klarstrom, 56, died August 14. A native of Wis­ consin, he joined the union in 1977 in the port of Duluth, Minn. Brother Klarstrom began sailing in the Great Lakes division and later transferred to the deep sea division. He sailed in the engine department. Brether Klarstrom upgraded to QMED at the Lundeberg School. He served in the U.S. Army from 1955 to 1962, and again from I97I to 1974. HYMAN MEDMAN, Pensioner Hyman Medman, 73, passed away September 3. Brother Medman joined the Marine Cooks . and Stewards in 1953, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Medman retired in January 1979. EDWARD MILLER Pensioner Ed­ ward Miller, 72, died Sep­ tember 1. Bom in, Washington, he joined the Seafarers in 1958 in the port of San Francisco. He sailed in the steward department. Brother Miller com­ pleted the steward recertification course at the Lundeberg School in 1982. He began receiving his pen­ sion in March 1984. DEWEY A. PENTON SR. Pensioner Dewey A. Penton Sr., 64, passed away August 25. A native of Louisiana, he began his sailing career with the union in 1958 in the port of New Orleans. Brother Penton sailed in the deck department. He retired in October 1984. JOSE A. PEREZ Pensioner Jose A. Perez, 67, died August 18. Bom in Puer­ to Rico, he joined the Seafarers in 1957 in the port of New York. He sailed in the deck depart­ ment. Brother Perez began receiv­ ing his pension in April 1982. n SOLOMON ROSOFF Pensioner Solomon Rosoff, 79, died August FRANK S.KALICKY 22. Brother Pensioner Frank S. Kalicky, 85, Rosoff joined passed away July 16. Bom in Penn­ the union in sylvania, he joined the union in 1946 in the 1965 in the port of Buffalo, N.Y. port of Nor­ Brother Kalicky sailed in both the folk, Va. He Great Lakes and deep sea divisions sailed in the deck department. A as a member of the steward depart­ native of Pennsylvania, he served ment. He served in the U.S. Navy in the U.S. Army from 1941 to from 1942 to 1945. Brother 1945. Brother Rosoff began Kalicky began receiving his pen­ receiving his pension in Septem­ sion in December 1976. ber 1976. �-r _•• ' .-s--.- •'.>':;.-''-.:-r;'i'': miTOBER 1994 SEAFARERS LOG puted OT reported by all three departments. Suggestion made for contracts department to look into lowering seatime required for retirement. Crewmembers re­ quested new radio and microwave The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union ship­ oven for crew lounge. All hands re­ board minutes as possibie. On occasion, b^use of space quested to help keep messhall clean. Steward department given limitations, some wiii be omitted. vote of thanks. Next port: Ships minutes first are reviewed by the union's contract department. Portsmouth, Va. Digest of Ships Meetings Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the OOCL INSPIRATION(Sea Land union upon receipt of the ships minutes. The minutes are then Service), July 17—Chairman forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. Mark Trepp, Secretary Ekow Dof SEA-LAND INTEGRITY{SeaLand Service), May 22—Chairman Leon T. Jekot, Secretary Vernon WaUen, Deck Delegate Paul B. Carolan. Chairman announced receipt of two new lounge chairs and VCR. Ship needs separate washer for work clothes and rewinder for videotapes. Good trip reported by secretary. Educational director reminded crewmembers to upgrade at Lundeberg School when possible. Disputed OT reported by deck and steward delegates. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine delegate. Suggestion made to look into hard hat requirement in Rotterdam for crewmembers. Steward department given vote of thanks for job well done. Next port: Port Everglades, Fla. SEA-LAND INTEGRITY (SeaLand Service), June 26—Chairman Leon T. Jekot, Secretary Vernon Wallen, Deck Delegate Mark Davis. Chairman announced ship payoff in Charleston, S.C. Patrol­ man requested. Secretary stated he enjoyed working with crew—top to bottom. Educational director posted new movie list and urged crewmembers to attend upgrading courses at Piney Point. Deck department reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported in engine or steward departments. Chief electrician reminded crew­ members to keep door closed on main deck for proper ventilation on all decks. Suggestion made to pur­ chase weight-lifting equipment for ship. Steward department thanked for good food and good service. Next port: Port Everglades, Fla. CHARLES L. BflOIV/V(Tran­ soceanic Cable), July 28—Chair­ man Paul J. LaTorre. Chairman reported successful cable repair job. Received letter of commenda­ tion from company on excellent work. Payoff scheduled Aug. 1 in San Juan, P.R. Educational director stressed importance of upgrading at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer an­ nounced $400 in ship's fund. Deck department reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported in engine or steward departments. Suggestion to raise optical and den­ tal benefits forwarded to contracts department. Crewmembers noted repair of air conditioning system needed. Also recommended nonskid surfaces at top and bottom of stairwells. Steward gave vote of thanks to crew for keeping ship clean. Bosun gave steward depart­ ment vote of thanks for excellent food. CLEVELAND (SeaWft Bulkers), July 3—Chairman David J. Garoutte, Secretary Miguel E. Vinca, Educational Director Iqbal Samra, Deck Delegate Paul Cadran, Engine Delegate Nathaniel Gaten, Steward Delegate Ruti Dement Chairman advised crew to resolve conflicts with department delegate, then ship's chairman. He reminded crew not to go on deck during pirate watch. Educational director dis­ cussed opportunities available at Lundeberg School—free education and greater earning potential. Treasurer stated $115 in ship's fund. No beefs of disputed OT reported in all three departments. Items in need of fixing to be put on repair list. Crewmembers asked to be considerate of fellow shipmates by keeping noise down in pas­ sageways. Vote of thanks given to steward department for great bar­ becue, excellent pastries. Next port: Guam. foh. Educational Director Eric D. Bain, Deck Delegate Clemente Rocha, Engine Delegate John J. Walsh, Steward Delegate Eddy Usmany. Educational director ad­ vised crewmembers to attend clas­ ses at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer announced $50 in ship's fund and 28 new movies added to film col­ lection. No beefs or disputed OT reported by all three department delegates. Galley gang given vote of thanks for excellent job, both in quality and variety of food served throughout voyage. Next port: Charleston, S.C. OVERSEAS NEW ORLEANS (Maritime Overseas), July 31— Chairman Michael M. Sutton, Secretary Pernell Cook, Deck Delegate Timothy Jackson, Steward Delegate L. C. Johnson. Chairman reported smooth voyage. Secretary thanked crewmembers for good sanitary work in keeping ship clean. He stressed value of donating to union's political or­ ganization, SPAD. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang for job well done. Educational director dis­ cussed importance of upgrading skills at Lundeberg School. Engine department reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported in deck or steward departments. New remote control needed for TV. Next port: Boston, Mass. SEA-LAND DISCOVERY (SeaLand Service), July 24—Chairman GOLDEN MONARCH (Apex Eddy Stwaeard, Secretary J6s6 R. Marine), July 10—Chairman Ran­ Colls, Educational Director Joseph dall Carlton Hanke, Secretary R. Shuler, Deck Delegate E. ZouhanJuzang. Chairman announced ship tis; Engine Delegate Ramdn Colen route to Panama Canal Zone. lazo. Steward Delegate Jorge Educational director urged crew­ Salazar. Chairman announced members to upgrade skills at Piney payoff when boarding patrolman Point. No beefs or disputed OT comes aboard. All crewmembers reported in deck, engine or steward must attend U.S. Coast Guard in­ departments. Next port: Beaumont, spection upon arrival. Deck depart­ Texas. ment reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward departments. All NEWARK BAY(Sea-Land Ser­ communications read and posted. vice), July 24—Chairman Pete Sanchez, Secretary Felipe P.A. Or- Vote of thanks given to entire steward department for excellent landa. Deck Delegate Stephen E. job. Ship heading to New Jersey, Yursha. Secretary thanked all Puerto ^co and Dominican departments for job well done. He Republic, with expected payoff in announced upcoming payoff in Elizabeth, N.J. No beefs or disElizabeth, N.J. Aftera JobWell Done Crewmembers aboard the SlU-crewed Dyn-Marine Virginia Hesponderreturn to the port of Norfolk following a successful training exercise with the Jersey Responder and the Delaware Responder. They are, from left, AB/Tankerman Tom Costner, Chief Mate Bob Blomerth, Mate Bill Harvell, Cook John Willis, Assst. Eng. Sam Mormando and AB/Tankerman Bill Holmes. SEA-LAND PATRIOT (SeaLand Service), July 17—Chairman Shawn Evans, Secretary A. Delaney, Educational Director H. Paquin, Deck Delegate Steve Kastel. Engine Delegate Richard Mul­ len, Steward Delegate E.R. Avila. Chairman stressed importance of safety aboard ship and reminded crewmembers of drug testing re­ quired following serious accidents. Secretary noted elimination of cer­ tain portion-controlled items in gal­ ley. Educational director urged crewmembers to attend school at Piney Point to upgrade skills and gain job security. Several beefs reported by deck department. No beefs or disputed OT reported in engine or steward departments. Suggestion made to improve work­ ing conditions for helmsman re­ quired to stand four-hour watch without relief. Also to have lookout for heavy traffic. Steward department given vote of thanks for job well done. Ship heading to Tokyo and Kobe, Japan, with ex­ pected payoff in Long Beach, Calif. SEA-LAND PERFORMANCE Sea-Land Service), July 22— Chainnan Richard R. Moss, Secretary Melvin W. Hite, Deck Delegate Peter Kulyk, Engine Delegate JJ. Gruszeczka, Steward Delegate Bert M. Win- field. Chairman wished farewell to Chief Cook Winfield, retiring after 44 years in SIU, two years in U.S. Army and 10,00() days seatime. Winfield, he said, is "one of finest chief cooks in the game, a beautiful friend and shipmate to us all. He will be sorely missed." No beefs or disputed OT reported by all three department delegates. New icebox for galley on order. Vote of thanks to steward department for job well done. Next port: Elizabeth, N.J. SEA-LAND SPIRIT (Sea-Land Service), July 24—Chairman Howard Gihhs, Secretary Aubrey D. Gething, Educational Director Robert A. Martinez, Deck Delegate Theodore Doi, Engine Delegate Mel Sisun, Steward Delegate Sheng-Jen Hsieh. Chair­ man announced purchase of exer­ cise machine for crewmembers. Secretary said anyone wishing to upgrade at Paul Hall Center should 19 of new pay rates for unlicensed crew. Educational director reminded crewmembers of upgrad­ ing facilities at Piney Point. Treasurer announced $645 in ship's fund after purchasing 50 new videotapes in last four months. No beefs or disputed OT reported by department delegates. Request made by crewmembers for new washing machine. Next port: Bah­ rain. SEA-LAND DEFENDER (SeaLand Service), August 6—Chair­ man William J. Dean, Secretary Curtis Phillips Jr., Educational Director Daniel F. Dean, Deck Delegate Jim Dallas, Engine Delegate Daran Ragucci, Steward Delegate Terry J. Allen. Chair­ man noted smooth voyage. No beefs or disputed OT reported by delegates in all departments. Educa­ tional director advised crewmem­ bers to upgrade skills at Lundeberg Ready to Go Ashore Following a payoff aboard the SS Carolina, some SIU members of the crew pose for a group shot. They are, from left, OMU Joe Harris, Bosun Danny Marcus, AB Enrique Velez and AB Martin Rosen. send in application. Educational director stressed importance of donating to SPAD. Treasurer stated $140 in ship's fund and $10 in movie fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported in all three depart­ ments. Vole of thanks given to steward department for good food and service. Payoff schooled for Long Beach, Calif., then sailing to Honolulu, Hawaii. School. VCR needs repair (new belt) or replacement. Crewmem­ bers would like spare washing machine. Recommendation given to contracts department to increase dental plan benefits. Hats off given to steward department for job well done. Next port: Wilmington, Calif. SEA-LAND DISCOVERY(SeaLand Service), August 21—Chair­ man Nelson Sala, Secretaiy Josi CHAMPION (Kirhy), August 21— R. Colls, Educational Director Chairman Alvie S. Rushing, Tomas Msco, Deck Delegate E. Secretary Darrell J. Touchstone, Zouhantis, Engine Delegate Educational Director James McRamon Collazo, Steward Delegate Daniel, Deck Delegate Charles E. Jorge Salazar. Chairman an­ Kinney, Engine Delegate Richard nounced payoff as soon as patrol­ Rodgers, Steward Delegate John man comes on board. Coast Guard S. Foster. This is ship's first to conduct inspection at that time. voyage under new company. Chair­ Secretaiy announced rescue opera­ man stated all going well and crew tion 20 miles off coast of Cuba. should continue to do best job pos­ Seven Cuban refugees brought on­ board and taken to immigration of­ sible. Educational director advised crew to upgrade skills at Piney ficials in San Juan. No beefs or Point to protect their future. No disputed OT reported by depart­ beefs or disputed OT reported by ment delegates. Vote of thanks department delegates. Vote of given to steward department for thanks given to steward depart­ excellent job. Ship sailing to ment. Steward, in turn, thanked all Elizabeth, N.J., San Juan, P.R. crewmembers for cooperation in and Rio Haina, Dominican maintaining clean vessel. Extra Republic. minute of silence observed in SEA-LAND EXPLORER (Seamemory of Paul Hall. Next port; Land Service), August 21—Chair­ Boston, Mass. man Jack Kingsley, Secretary Alphonso Davis, Educational DUCHESS (Ocean Shipholding), Director J.K. Hallm, Deck August 7—Chairman Dave New­ man, Secretary Raymond L. Delegate Jim Tracy, Engine Delegate Arthur J. Shaw, Steward Jones, Educational Director J. Delegate M. Ahdulla. Chainnan SIngletary, Engine Delegate announced everything running Felipe A. "Torres, Steward smoothly. Secretary reminded Delegate Diego Hatch. Chairman crewmembers to attend classes at read agreement between Ocean Piney Point to upgrade skills. Shipholding and SIU. No beefs or Steward department given vote of disputed OT reported in deck, en­ thanks for job well done. No beefs gine or steward departments. Sug­ or disputed OT reported by deck, gestion made for contracts department to reduce seatime engine or steward delegates. Next needed for full retirement. Steward port: Long Beach, Calif. department given thumbs up for DSNS SILAS BEhIT(Bay S\np job well done. Next port: Piney Management), August 11-^hairPoint, Md. man J.B. Griffin HI, Secretary Ben Henderson, Educational RICHARD G. MATTHIESEN Director P.Garrett Chairman (Ocean Shipping), August 21— called special meeting to discuss Chairman James T. Martin, Secretary Lovell McElroy, Educa­ with crew upcoming ship's turn­ over to DynCorp. Secretary noted tional Director Ron Day, Deck sufficient stores on board and all Delegate Harry R. Johns, Engine storerooms clean and orderly. Ship Delegate Dean Dobbins, Steward heading to Djibouti, with expected Delegate Mohamed M. Quraish. Secretary reported receiving copies payoff in Piraeus, Greece. .... , .... •; • • , > . i-i/.",'. ' ..'lii.j'.J,.*.-.,.,' L"-.' 'H.. • �20 OCTOBER 1994 SEAFARERS LOG Inquiring Seafarer Question: What differences have you found you ex­ perience by belonging to a union? Asked of SIU members in the port of Houston. Jeff Gelin, QMED It's a lot easier to look for a job in one place than to go door-to-door. And the benefits help, too. The SIU tries to help you as much as they can for upgrading and things like that. think a big difference is that you can go to school through the union and do a lot of things to make yourself a better person. You get opportunities to get bet­ ter and better. Jim Dawson, Recer­ tified Bosun — 1 found that whenl first talked to people about the SIU that other jobs just didn't take care of the employees the way they do in the SIU. The SIU had better benefits than other jobs. Also, the SIU works with its members to keep them in touch with what's going on. It gets them benefits and it just gets better as the years go along. Obenzio Espinoza, Chief Cook — First of all, there J. Asbare the ley, benefits QMED available — I've through always the welfare plan and traveling to belonged different countries. While there to a were some good countries and union. some bad, ^1 of it has been a Working good experience. I've been in condi­ die union for 10 years and I ap­ tions, the contract and wages preciate the good brothers. That are important.1 came into the makes a difference. union in 1964. John Arvanites. Chief Cook — I started sailing in 1958.1 was on the West Coast in San Francisco. 1 went to the union hall and waited four months for a job.1 knew from when 1 was a little kid that 1 wanted to work in an organiza­ tion, in a union. 1 didn't want to work for an individual.1 like to work with guidelines. The only way 1 could work the way 1 wanted to was to be in a union. Ralph Moore, Recer­ tified Bosun — If it wasn't for the union, we couldn't exist. Now, there are companies for which you could work for 9,700 diays and they would kick you out without any­ thing. With the union, you keep your hospitalization and benefits. Anjd;ime a union can take someone off the streets and give him an education, benefits and then a job, God bless them. That's what the union did for me. »/ Seafarers Join In Celebration of Puerto Rico Timotby )owd, 'decer­ tified Steward — The irst ship was on, was there with my dad. He was in a union w 47 years. District 2-MEBA. He started as a coal passer and retired as a chief engineer of 32 years. 1 used to take trips with dm in the summers because in lose days he didn't have that much time off. He had six kids and because he worked for the union, we had good medical coverage and the money to get le things he afforded us. I've )een at this for 13 years myself. Marco Antonio Guity, Steward Assistant — The expenence that has made a difference is the benefits that you get, the hospitalization and all of that. Also, the security of laving work and that you can lo to the school to better your­ self, and that's available to all. Vllcbael HarmanNestor son, OWT— Valentin The difMar­ erence tinez, Oiler the union Main­ makes is ceeping tenance Utility — ourjobs The first steady and in the U.S., instead ex­ of letting them go overseas. Our perience was that people in the medical benefits, that also union are really nice. 1 think the works out.1 star^ out working union is always getting better.1 lere in Houston, and I've been sailing about 3 yearn. came in during 1989.1 also -f' •/' Helping to celebrate Hudson County (N.J.) Puerto RIcan Day last month, the SIU joined with PAPA (Filipino-American Advancement for Progress) in fielding a parade float. Seafarers official Ed Pulver (in left of photo flanked by two of the participants) stands before the 31-foot float which won second place in the parade, designed to recognize the positive contributions of Puerto Ricans to the U.S. Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The wages and conditions under which EQUAL RIGHTS. All mem­ constitution of the SIU Atlantic, an SIU member works and lives bers are guaranteed equal rights in Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters Dis­ aboard a ship or boat. Members employment and as members of the trict makes specific provision for should know their contract rights, as SIU. These rights are clearly set safeguarding the membership's well as their obligations, such as filing forth in the SIU constitution and in money and union finances. The for oveitime(OT) on thepropo-sheets the contracts which the union has Constitution requires a detailed and in the proper manner. If, at any negotiated with the employers. audit by certified public accountants time, a member believes that an SIU Consequently, no member may be every year, which is to be submitted patrolman orothra- union official fails discriminated against because of to the membership by the secretary- to protect their contractual rights race, creed, color, sex, national or treasurer. A yearly finance commit­ properly, he cu* she should craitact the geographic origin. If any member tee of rank-and-file members, nearest SIU port agent feels that he or she is denied the elected by the membership, each EDITORIAL POLICY — equal rights to which he or she is year examines the finances of the THE SEAFARERS LOG. The entitled, the member should notify union and reports fully their find­ Seafarers LOG traditionally has urtion headquarters. ings and recommendations. Mem­ refrained from publishing any article SEAFARERS POLITICAL bers of this committee may make serving the political purposes of any ACTIVITY DONATION — dissenting reports, specific recom­ individual in the union, officer or SPAD. SPAD is a separate mendations and separate findings. member. It also has refrained fiom segregated fund. Its process are TRUST FUNDS. All trust publishing articles deemed harmful to used to further its objects and pur­ funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, the union or its collective member­ poses including, but not limited to, Lakes and Inland Waters District ship. This established policy has been furthering the political, social arid are administered in accordance reaffirmed by membership action at economic interests of maritime with the provisions of various trust the September 1960 meetings in aU workers, the preservation and fur­ fund agreements. All these agree­ constitutional ports. The respon­ thering of the American merchant ments specify that the trustees in sibility for Seafarers LOG policy is marine with improved employment charge of these funds shall equally vested in an ^torial board which opportunities for seamen and boat­ consist of union and management consists of the executive board of the men and the advancement of trade representatives and their alternates. union. The executive board may union concepts. In connection with All expenditures and disburse­ delegate, from among its ranks, one such objects, SPAD supports and ments of trust funds are made Only individual to cany out this respon­ contributes to political candidates upon approval by a majority of the sibility. for elective office. All contribu­ trustees. All trust fund financial PAYMENT OF MONIES. No tions are voluntary. No contribu­ records are available at the head­ monies are to be paid to anyone in any tion may be solicited or received quarters of the various trust funds. official capacity in the SIU unless an because of force, job discrimina­ SHIPPING RIGHTS. A official union receipt is given for tion, financial reprisal, or threat of member's shipping rights and same. Under no circumstances such conduct, or as a condition of seniority are protected exclusively should any member pay any money membership in the union or of by contracts between the union and for any reason unless he is given such employment. If a contribution is the employers. Members should get receipt. In the event anyone attempts made by reason of the above improper to know their shipping rights. to require any such payment be mile conduct, the member should notify the Copies of thesecontracts are posted without supplying a receipt, or if a Seafarers International Union or SPAD and available in all union halls. If member is required to make a pay­ by certified mail within 30 days of the members believe there have been ment and is given an official receipt, contribution for investigation and ap­ violations of their shipping or but feels that he or she should not propriate action and refund, if involun­ seniority rights as contained in the have been required to make such pay­ tary. A member should support SPAD contracts between the union and the ment, this should immediately be to protect and further his or her employers, they should notify the reported to union headquarters. economic, political and social intoests, Seafarers Appeals Board by certified CONSTITUTIONAL and American trade union concepts. mail, return receipt requested. The RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. If at any time a fnember feels proper address for this is: Copies of the SIU constitution are that any of the above rights have Augustin Tellez, Chairman available in all union halls. All mem­ been violated, or that he or she has Seafarers Appeals Board bers should obtain copies of this con- been denied the constitutional right 5201 Auth Way stitution so as to familiarize of access to union records or infor­ Camp Springs, MD 20746 themselves with its contents. Any Full copies of contracts as referred time a member feels any other mem­ mation, the member should immediately notify SIU President to are available to members at all ber or officer is attempting to deprive times, either by writing direcdy to the him or her of any constitutional right Michael Sacco at headquarters by union or to the Seafarers Appeals or obligation by any methods,such as certified mail, return receipt re­ quested. The address is: Board. dealing with charges, trials, etc., as Michael Sacco, President CONTRACTS. Copies of all well as all other details, the member Seafarers International Union SIU contracts are available in all SIU so affected should immediately 5201 Auth Way halls. These contracts specify the notify headquarters. Camp Springs, MD 20746. �OarOBER 1994 SEAFARERS LOG 21 A War jyisLiry: by James M. Smith Continued from page 14 breeze and a pale moon shining in a star-filled sky above the hills of Tulagi. 0330: "Reveille Joe" ar­ rived amid a sudden flashing of searchlights and the crash of anti­ aircraft guns. Whomp - whomp whomp - whomp - four bombs, four misses. 0430: under way for Guadalcanal. 0600: anchored and began discharging cargo into bar­ ges; At 0830 the 2nd Marines and two Army regiments began their attack along a ridge in back of Henderson Field, using artillery and both naval and air support. Several destroyers moved in close to the beach and laid down a con­ tinuous barrage on the Jap posi­ tions. At the same time, the Army and Marine artillery units were laying it on to them hot and heavy from their shoreside position. Bom­ bers were working them over and fighters strafed them. I was work­ ing up forward today, so I could tell when the line companies moved out with their rifles and grenades by the sudden ceasing of the artillery fire. I wonder how my old buddy Max is making out up there with his platoon of Marines this morning. \r:i^ ©tie ^onf]^ ®0 (^Enii in Pnlibag 4 At noon we had Christmas din­ ner—turkey, dressing, cranberry sauce, pie, etc. Several hundred sol­ diers and Marines had dinner aboard. December 27. Sunday. Anchored off the beach at 0600 and began working cargo. My job is to keep the generators and cargo winches working, but these guys are so hard on the equipment I'm running out of spare parts! 0905: 50-cal; machine gun fire from boat deck—General Quarters. A destroyer moved in and dropped a pattern of depth charges about 800 yards out in the channel. 0930: secured from GQ. Working cargo again. 1800: machine gun fire from boat deck—General Quarters. More depth charges 1830: weighed anchor and under way for Tulagi with destroyers both port and star­ board. 210i0: anchored in Tulagi Harbor. December 28. I'm completely bushed tonight. All hands turned to on the cargo today. We hope to finish it up tomorrow and get out of here. We feel like our luck is run­ ning out. There was heavy artil­ lery and mortar fire along the enemy-held ridge today, but no airraids. December 29. 1200: finished discharging cargo. Secured for sea. 1500: underway for Espiritu Santo! Among the troops aboard is Marine Gunny Gay. I don't know how he did it, but from somewhere he got some medicinal alcohol, so we spent the evening drinking grapefruit Juice cocktails and tell­ ing sea stories. I don't know how Gunny was doing, but after being "dry" for so long, I was seeing little green men with horns all night. I got up to chase them away about four times, but they always came back. Once they hung naked women by the neck all around my bunk. It's a good thing we're getting out of here, since I'm getting as "jungle^ happy" as the Marines over on the island. Everyone on the ship is that way. December 31. 2400: we are anchored at the base at Espiritu Santo, New Hebrides, Southwest Pacific. Happy New Year! And so to bed. January 1943. The SS Del Brasil returned unescorted to the States via Fiji and Samoa. The following voyage, in May 1943, we had a gun battle with a surfaced Jap submarine. But that's another story. i'lBEACON OF OPPORTUNITY Holiday greetings from active and retired Seafarers—as well as their family members—will be published in the December issue of the Seafarers LOG. In order to ensure that all messages sent to the LOG office are included in the December edition, they must be received by Monday, November 14,1994. They may be sent by mail to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. In addition, facsimile copies wall be accepted after November 1. The fax number is (301) 702-4407. The holiday greeting forms may be filed out in any union hall and turned in to the officjed at the counter—or may be given to the boarding patrolman at a vessel's payoff. Jlnm [15 ar t The Seafarers Welfare Plan, through its yearly scholarship pro­ gram, can help guide the way to a better education for SIU mem­ bers and their dependents. As in past years, the union will offer seven scholarship in 1995. Four are set aside for the children and spouses of Seafarers. Each of these four schoalrships is for $15,000 to be used at a fouryear college or university. The other three are for Seafarers them­ selves. One of the awards is for $15,000 for use at a four-year institution of higher learning. The remaining two scholarships amount to $6,000 each and may be used for study at a com­ munity college or vocational school. Eligibility requirements for Seafarers and their spouses and unmarried dependent children are spelled out in a booklet which contains an application form. It is available by filling out and returning the coupon below to the Seafarers Welfare Plan. Completed applications with all necessary information in­ cluded MUST be mailed and postmarked ON or BEFORE APRIL 15,1995. It will be necessary to complete the applica­ tion and include with it all other necessary paperwork (autobiographical statement, photograph, certified copy of birth certificate, high school transcript and certification of graduation or official copy of high school equivalency scores, college transcript, letters of reference, SAT or ACT test results). The SAT and ACT exams are given approximately six times a year on specified dates. Applicants should be sure to take whichever exam is required by the college or trade school they plan to attend. (Tests must be taken by FEBRUARY 1995 to ensure the results will be available for inclusion in the scholar­ ship application package.) With the cost of a college education rising each year, the Seafarers Scholarship Program can certainly help defray the costs, but no one can be awarded a scholarship without filling out an application. This process is not difficult, but it will take some time to gather all the necessary information. Plan ahead to make sure everything will be collected in time. Some schools can be slow in handling transcript requests, so ap­ plicants should ask for them as soon as possible. Also, now is a good time for the applicant to start thinking about who should be asked to write letters of recommendation. Mail in the coupon below for more application details. (PLEASE PRINT OR TYPE) To: From: Message:. .•^'1 ::i •••n I niease send me the 1995 SIU Scholarship Program booklet which contains eligibility information, i j • procedures for applying and the application form. j I Name I Book Number ' Address Check the block which describes your status with the SIU: • Active Seafarer • Family Member of Active Seafarer • Retired Seafarer • Family Member of Retired Seafarer Send your greeting to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. The greeting should be received at the LOG office by Monday, November 14, 1994. 1(V94 j City, State, Zip Code, j Telephone Number _ I This application is for: [H Self 1^ D Dependent Mail this completed form to Scholarship Program, Seafarers Welfare Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. ' V. • V- •• l(V94j • ;v. �22 OCWBEB1994 SEMFMBBStOG Lundeberg School Graduating Classes •v'V'/ •••I'f-.; V «,v.j..I '*|^•• • Trainee Lifeboat Class 528—Graduating from trainee lifeboat class 528 are (from left, kneeling) Rhandele Dusich, Aaron White, Charles Fiechtner, Scott Kucharski, (second row) Brande Doten, Mark Maiello, Merle Wooley, Dockery McGuire II, Marco Carbajal, John Tumer, Rebecca Gaytan, (third row) Ben Cusic (instructor), Leroy Roberts, Lynford Robles and Michael Margraves. Oil Spill Containment—Completing the oil spill emergency containment and clean-up course on August 31 are (from left, kneeling) Sara Moore, Clifford Blackmon, Jose L. Luaces, Casey Taylor (instructor). Christian Werner, Christopher Kavanagh, (second row) T.L Thompson, Chris Campos, James Strickland, David Deloach, Richard Gendaszer, Washington Williams Sr., Jim Moore, Dale Kirsch Jr., Kevin George, (third row) Michael Moore, Matthew Sandy, Frank Coburn, Ronald F. Lukacs, Roger Jackson, Thomas Diviny Jr. and Mark Dominiak. Upgraders Lifeboat—Upgrading graduates of the August 24 upgraders lifeboat class are (from left, kneeling) Floro Alabanza, Ben Cusic (instaictor), Asril Syabaini, (second row) Cynthia Adamson Rebecca Hedge, Edison Rodriguez and Gregory Williams. Radar—Renewing their radar endorsements on August 24 are (from left, first row) Jake Karaczynski (instructor), Ron Paradise, Victor R. Rosada, Jeff Tanksley, (second row) Charles Vamey, Michael Hill, Kimo Sullivan, Jim Kelly, Dale Kirsch Jr. and Christopher Kavanagh. i".'; ^ • Manne Electrical Maintenance—^The August 24 graduates of the marine electrical maintenance class are (from left, kneeling) Joseph Jay Amold, Sara Moore, Robert Rice Jr., Mann Aroon, (second row) Mark Jones (instructor), Thomas Diviny Jr., Larry Pittman, Paul Lightfoot, John Copeland Jr., Franklin Coburn and William Twiford. Not pictured is Richard Larsen. Upgraders Lifeboat—Certificates of training were received by the September 8 class of upgraders. They are (from left, kneeling) Paul Lightfoot, Mary Lou Smith Larry A. Gross, Miles S. Copeland, Tom Gilliand (instructor), (second row) Jim Browrl (instructor), Harry Gardeira Jr., Gregg Johnson, Ronald Gibbs, Gilbert Sandford Jr and Kurt Mayer. Refrigeration Maintenance—Receiving certification for completion of the refrigeration maintenance course on Upgraders Lifeboat—Rose T. McCants Augustus are (from left, seated) James Gibson, Thomas Keseru, Michael Brown, Sellers Brook, (second row) Mark Poses with Lundeberg School instructor Ben Cusic Francois, Mike Clapshau, Paul Peterson, Jorge Bonelli, Monroe Monseur, Marsha Dawson, John Lange, John Walsh, following her compleTfoh of the upgraders lifeboat Steven Williams and Steve Harrington. class on July 25. �wmmat 1994 SaFARBtSLOG LUMDEBERG SCHOOL 1994-1995 UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE Engine Upgnullng Courses The following is the course schedule for classes beginning between November 1994 and March 1995 at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship located at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. All programs are geared to improve job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. The course schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in turies of conflict—^Ihe nation's security^ Bate of B^teof " OS. " ' s •" Goh^efiinir . Course January 30 Pebraary 27 January 30 .January February 6 Februi^2^ Januffiry23 January 23 Febrtiary27:; Ihnited License, Parti Limited License Part 11 jLimited License, Part III Able Seaman Bateof Enrollment Course Bate of Completion Power Plant Maintenance January 9 February 17 QMEB - Any Rating January 9 March 31 Refrigeration Systems February 30 March 10 Maintenance & Operations Diesel Engine T»:hnology March 13 April 7 Hydraulics February 20 March24 January 9 Marine Electrical IMkiini^it^^ February P7 MarthiJ Martne Electrical M^hkteiianc^ April 21 January 9 Basic Electronics February 3 1 Mprine Electronics February 6 h^chJ Electronics Technician II March 0 March 31 February 20 ^'^dlhg . , March 17 AM students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. , ' J fFabrtiaryJ mm February 17 .... Mardh3 •ftiaaistas ij.v. Bateof Bateof Completion January 30 February 27 March 27 February 10 April7 Bateaf Ehrtlln^ Bateof Completion Course April 7 '»ruary3 Mardh 10 March 24 February 17 lytauary IJ January.2^iJ ICelestial Navigrt^ V' «' January^ February 24 March 17 February 10 Jamiaiy 2 23 > Engine Familiarizataion Diesel pUdEAamited Licen» Prep V s ' _ ''Ittttbh:' Couhes^ Bate of Bate of November25 Nayeinber 18 BecemberO jhadomnville, Fla. Juiuary 91 1 Wilmington, Calif. F^iuai7l3 Brooklyn, N.Y. March 13 For 1994 courses, see page 9 in this edition of the LOG. Course 4.: t' .* S. ' Mm^ iO< January 13 Feiwnary 17 March 17 , ; ^ SSI mri 90 f- .KX']"' "' " ~ • Course Enndlment Ownpfeiifei Die following courses are available through the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School. Please contact the admissions office for enrollment information. Steward Rarertification February 20 January 23 March 31 March 6 Course Bateof Enrollment GEB Preparation Adult Basic Education (ABE) English as a Second Language (ESL) 12 wMks - open-ended adml^lon 6 weeks - open ended admission 1 6 weeks - open ended admission Session I January 30 Bateof '<•0 V-:;' Bate of C^unw Bateof EnroUinent Bate of Completion distant Cook, Cook and Baker Chief Cook, Chief Steward November 21 November 21 February 10 February 10 (Middle) (Rret) (Ust) (Stfcet) (Zip Code) (State) (City) Date of Birth. Telephone _L (Month/Day/Year) (Area Code) Inland Waters Member• Lakes Member D Deep Sea Member D March 24 Primary language spoken UPGRADING APPUCATIOH Name Address Bateof Completion With this application, COPIES of your discharges must be submitted showing suffi­ cient time to qualify yourself for the course(s) requested.You also must submit a COPY of each of the following: the first page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, your clinic card and the front and back of your z-card as well as your Lundeberg School identification card listing the course(s) you have taken and com­ pleted The Admissions Office WILL NOT schedule you until all of the above are received BEGIN END DATE DATE COURSE If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security #. Book # ^ Seniority Department U.S. Citizen: •Yes • No •-I'' ' • Home Port. Date On: Firefighting:• Yes • No DATE GNO SIGNATURE. • Yes GNO Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? • Yes • No Date Off: • Yes If yes, class # Have you attended any SHLSS upgrading courses? If yes, course(s) taken. -.''l Rating: LAST VESSEL: Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held Are you a graduate of the SHLSS trainee program? CPR:• Yes • No RETURN COMPLETED APPLICATION TO: Lundeberg Upgrading Center, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674. 10/94 <iU • • ..'4 .'J' • •- V �SEAEUaXCS Volume 56, Number 10 Education Is for Everyone start 1995 off on the right foot. Attend upgrading classes at the Lundeberg School. See page 23 for some new courses starting at the school in January. Also, see page 21 for infor­ mation on the scholarship program for SlU tnembers and their dependents. October 1994 Seafarers^ Generosity Aids Hospitalized Kids Nuevo San Juan Crew Donates Funds, Toys to Intensive Care Unit ' 'i- The children's intensive care unit at the Hospital Pediactrico Central in San Juan, Puerto Rico is the fortunate recipient o many acts of kindness per­ formed by SIU crewmembers aboard the Nuevo San Juan of the Navieras de Puerto Rico fleet, whose vessels are operated and managed by Puer­ to Rico Marine Inc. (PRMMI). Ten respiratory units have been donated to the hospital by the crewmembers during the last several months, not to men­ tion toys for the children who are staying at the hospital and materials to decorate the social services salon. In fact, in ap­ preciation for the generosity shown by the ship's crew, the hospital's board of directors named their social services salon the "Saldn Nuevo San Juan." The campaign started last Christmas and has expanded from the Nuevo San Juan to Beneath a bulletin board showing photos of the hospital and some of the children they have helped are (from left) Bosun William Card, OMU Eddie Jansen, AB Don Martin, Engine Utility James Parrish and crews on other Navieras vessels Steward Assistant Angel O'Neill. and to the shoregangs in Elizabeth and San Juan. Navieras for many years has day of the year—initiated the ing, medical equipment and the crews and taken off the ships on arrival in San Juan and held an annual fund-raising year-round program. Crew­ other provisions. Bosun William Card was Elizabeth. The materials include drive to collect money for toys members joined Powell's effort, for children in the hospital, but each pitching in a portion of his enthusiastic about the program. aluminum cans, wasted ladder Capt. E. Powell of the Nuevo salary (usually one hour of "It's worked out really well," he rungs and pieces of mooring San Juan—realizing that premium overtime per pay told a reporter from the wire. According to Santiago Carchildren are in the hospital every period) to purchase toys, cloth- Seafarers LOG. "And we know that the donations we make ac­ rero, terminal manager at tually get to the hospital." The Navieras and one of the com­ 45-year-old bosun was among a pany employees responsible for group of crewmembers who initiating the donation program, personally presented three of all of the medical equipment the respiratory units to the medi­ purchased is picked up and transported to San Juan aboard cal center. AB Jose Tobio echoed a Navieras ship and delivered Powell's feelings, noting that personally by crewmembers to "kids need many, many things, the intensive care unit at the so we help whenever we can. hospital. "Every penny donated Other ships also do their best." gives a hurting child a better He said that the donations help the families of hospitalized children as well. "I think the best thing you can do is help The National Center for children," Tobio stated. "ThenMissing and Exploited families cannot afford [the medical care], and many of the Children has asked the Helping children and their families Steward/Baker Hazel Johnson Seafarers International places are overcrowded." oins in the fund-raising effort. Is important for AB Jose Tobio. The ship's crew has tried Union to assist them in locat­ raising money by purchasing ing Kerry Lynelle Johnson. She was last seen in lottery tickets, but as yet, the big Salem, Ore. on September win remains elusive. They also set up a fund to be us^ for making t-shirts and hats which are sold to the public as well as given to the hospitalized children. AB Victor Beata, who recently got off the containership in Elizabeth, was one of the forces behind that ac­ tivity. TTie fund-raising idea spread, and the shoregangs (after receiving permission from Navieras) have worked with local scrappers to generate Chief Cook Lonnie Bettis (left) and Electrician Charlie Gallagher do money from the sale of various Kerry Lynelle Johnson as she their share to help the children in the intensive care unit. scrap metals which are saved by is believed to look at age 29. chance at life," he stated in an appreciative letter to the LOG. At the present time, the fundraising campaign has been con­ centrated in a very narrow area—the pediatric section of the intensive care unit. 'To date we've made some vety positive impact," Carrero said. "If we can help just one little child, then all of our effort will have been worth it." It is hoped the campaign will grow and continue to spread to all ships operated by Navieras. Anyone interested in helping expand the sci -pe of this vital campaign—which has come to be Imown as "Amigos de los Ninos"—may contact Santiago Carrero at Navieras de Puerto Rico, G.P.O. 71306, San Juan, PR 00936-1306 or call him at (809) 781-2858. AB Victor Beata helped the cam­ paign by making t-shirts and hats. ife/p Locate This Missing Person 14, 1982, hitchhiking to her cousin's house. She has not been seen or heard from since and is considered endangered and missing. The photo below has been age-enhanced to show how the 29-year-old woman might appear today. At the time of her disap­ pearance, the brown-haired, blue-eyed Kerry Johnson was 5 ft. 8 in. tall and weighed 160 pounds. Anyone having informa­ tion on the whereabouts of Kerry Lynelle Johnson should contact the National Center for Missing and Ex­ ploited Children at (800) 843-5678 or the Missing Persons Unit of the Salem (Ore.) Police Department at (503) 588-6123. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 1990-1999 Description An account of the resource Volumes LII-LXI Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993; Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource October 1994 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES HOUSE ENACTS PACKAGE OF MARITIME MEASURES BY VOTE 402-12, REPS. ADOPT INLAND SAFETY, REGULATORY REFORM, AID TO U.S. CRUISE SECTOR PANEL BACKS DOCUMENTS FOR BOATMEN INLAND SAFETY BILL PASSED, SENT TO HOUSE FLOOR FARM CLIQUE BLOCKS DEBATE ON SHIP BILL UNDEMOCRATIC TACK STUNS SENATE RESERVE SHIPS BROKEN OUT EIGHT HAITIAN-BOUND RRF VESSELS CREWED BY SIU SIU TO CREW 3 FORMER OMI VESSELS PURCHASED BY KIRBY TANKSHIPS HOUSES PASSES U.S. CRUISE SHIP ACT RUNAWAY-FLAG TANKERS RAMS NATCO DREDGE USCG TO ISSUE MACHINE READABLE Z-CARDS AFL-CIO STUDY: NAFTA PROVOKES JOB LOSSES, LOWER TRADE SURPLUS ESTONIAN FERRY SINKS, 800 PEOPLE MISSING HUDSON CREW PLUCKS 12 CUBANS FROM GULF OF MEXICO MSCPAC SHIP RESCUES 10 EGYPTIANS NARRAGANSETT SAVES 4 OFF COAST OF KENYA SEAFARERS FARE WELL ON EPA EXAM SUMMER HARVEST KEEPS ORGULF CREWS BUSY SEAFARERS WELFARE PLAN ANNOUNCES CHANGES TO PROTECT BENEFITS SESSION ENDS WITHOUT HEALTH REFORM, BUT THE DEBATE IS FAR FROM FINISHED LUNDEBERG STUDENTS MAINTAIN MANITOU RESTORING JFK’S YACHT FALLS TO NEW GENERATION CAPE MOHICAN CREW LANDED FOR ROLE IN SEALIFT EXERCISES WITH THE SIU AT GUADALCANAL: A WAR DIARY BY JAMES SMITH SEAFARERS’ GENEROSITY AIDS HOSPITALIZED KIDS NUEVO SAN JUAN CREW DONATES FUNDS, TOYS TO INTENSIVE CARE UNIT Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 10/01/1994 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 56, No. 10 1994 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/4c095a848d59db2d356ec20962437ecb.PDF f05e41765c6a13a96672a82b04a1ee0e PDF Text Text r-.>.--i?v^.= •.. v.„,, Martin Marietta Boatmen Vote 37-2 for SIU ITF Seafarers Elect John Fay To Top Post Page 3 Page 2 Liberty Ship Saves Stranded Returns from D-Day Honors Fisherman Page 5 Page 14 OFFKIAL ORGAN OF THE SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION • ATLANTIC, GULF, LAKES AND INLAND WATERS DISTRIG • AFL-CIO •.K .5 Volume 56, Number 9 September 1994 1994 U.S. 5lr|pt Bill Goes to Senate ••/s '3- Received; read twice and lefencd to the Comnunec on Commeice, AN ACT v«.r i,', nations for fiscal year 1995 i e Department of Tiansportationr--^ 1936, as amended, to revitalize i merchant marine, and for other purposes i!_ '/i prffMBPf'i'{ouse of Representatives of Kmerica in Congress asse-<^ rrflpvS '•W:?: • • •'."i'.s ••• time Security and Tradi • /'{-'".I 'W • .,(i '-m 'i 4%'' •' ' :U :«»! SiU Chief Steward Ed Ombac has started a letter-writing campaign to his members of the U.S. Senate which is currently considering a bill of major im­ portance to the nation and all seamen. For more details, see page 3. '. Ujs: • , a. • cu. O cvC- d-O tA U-C r-4 CO <• 'CO I :?'iLjoujr- te: c- Qrh-u"i CO —r:^to . n:'-.cru:3; . OK '-'K •—•X CO K-C _Jt-«LL.(AO-| CXK- K-< •. •• �V, J./,--v.- •""j ";•'•* >./ , • • - 2 sfiiiwEirsioi; SEPTOHBER1994 President's Report Every Letter Counts Sfpi 6®: - This month, the message is short but most important. The SIU is calling On each and every Seafarer to be a part of the campaign to have a new maritime program enacted by the Senate. As you know, last month the House of Rep­ resentatives, by a vote of 294 to 122, passed a bill which, if enacted, will ensure that the United States has a fleet of modem, efficient containerships operating in the international trades and available to the nation in times of emergency or war. That bill, known as H.R. 4003, is now in the Michael Sacco Senate. First, it must clear the Senate Com­ merce Committee. Then it should go to the floor for a vote by the full Senate. The enemies of U.S. shipping have mustered their vast resour­ ces and are attempting to kill the bill in the Senate. Foreign ship­ ping companies, through their high-priced Washington lobbyists, are trying to scuttle the program that would, if passed, mean that U.S.-flag ships would be prominent on the high seas, competing with their liner companies. Also on the attack are the giant agribusiness grain interests, which enjoy millions of dollars in government subsidies to their corporate coffers, while opposing U.S. government programs to promote American shipping. This is where Seafarers, SIU pensioners and their families can play an important role. One personal letter to a senator is a power­ ful antidote to the well-financed, big business interests fighting the new maritime program. Elected officials must listen to the people who vote for them. So now is the time to take pen and paper in hand to write to the senators urging them to adopt what will be the first new forwardlooking maritime bill this country has seen in 20 years. Seafarers and their families can let the senators know how important a U.S.flag merchant marine is to the nation's economic security and na­ tional defense, as well as the value of U.S. shipping to the lives of thousands of mariners and their families. Fay Re-Elected Vice Chair Of ITF Seafarers' Section The SIU's secretary-treasurer, John Fay, last month was re­ elected to a top position in the Seafarers' Section of the Londonbased International Transport Workers Federation (ITF), an or­ ganization that brings together die free world's unions that repre­ sent individuals employed in maritime, rail, trucking and air­ line industries. The balloting for the vicechairmanship took place at the Seafarers' Section Conference on August 5, held in conjunction with the ITF's congress, which is held every four years. Brother ITF Seafarers' Section Vice-Chair Fay received the unanimous sup­ and SIU officer John Fay (left), port of representatives of confers with R. Lioeanjie, vice seamen's unions from some fifty chair of District 4-NMU/MEBA. nations. On August 9, Fay' s election to campaign against the substandard the vice-chair position was practices of runaway-flag ratified by the Congress, in which shipowners, who avoid the rules transport unions from more than and laws of their own nations by 90 nations took part. The ratifica­ purchasing the use of another tion was part of the adoption of nation's flag. The ITF's cam­ the Seafarers' Section Con­ paign is coordinated through the Fair Practices Committee (FPC), ference report to the Congress. Elected to the post of which is made up of seafarer and Seafarers' Section chair was docker representatives. As vice-chair of the Seafarers' Anders Lindstrom, an officer of the Swedish Seafarers' Union, He Section, Brother Fay serves on replaces K. Mols Sorensen, a the Seafarers' Section Committee Danish marine officer who has and is a member of the Fair Prac­ been involved in the ITF tices Committee and an ex-officio Seafarers' Section for more than member of the FPC's Subcom­ 30 years. An official of the mittee on the Collective Agree­ Australian Maritime Officers' ment and Flag-of-convenience Union, Fred Ross, received the Campaign Steering Group. Fay first assumed the vicesupport of the body for the posi­ chairmanship of the ITF's tion of deputy vice-chair. The Seafarers' Section is Seafarers' Section in October charged with coordinating the 1992. At that time, he was elected ITF's policies in regard to by the seamens' union repre­ sentatives at a section meeting to seamen. Through the ITF's Joint fill a vacancy. Since 1949, Fay has been a Seafarers' and Dockers' Con­ ferences, the international or­ member of the SIU. He became the ganization has coordinated a SIU's secretary-treasurer in 1990. -•f® The worldbody of transport unions, to which the SIU is affiliated, adopted several action plans to combat the harsh consequences to workers rendered by intemational companies with no national allegiances. Above, the ITF congress meets in plenary session. ITF Congress HHs Ruuawajts The highest decision-making body of the world federation of transport unions last month reaf­ firmed its efforts to elevate the pay and shipboard conditions of crewmembers working aboard runaway-flag ships, noting that flag-of-convenience ship registries allow shipowners to avoid taxes, evade laws and regulations that affect safety and ignore humane crew working conditions. Meeting in its 37th congress in Geneva, Switzerland from August 4 to II, delegates to the ntemational Transport Workers federation (ITF) also elected David Cockroft to the general secretary post, expanded the organization's Executive Board to allow for representation for transport unions in Central and astern Europe and adopted a blueprint for action. tounsm services. The eight sections of the ITF each elected a chair and vicechair, who will serve for the next four years, and endorsed resolu­ tions that were submitted to the congress. The sections also adopted a program of activities to be conducted until the next con­ gress. Second Registers Pierced Meeting in a Joint Seafarers' and Dockers' Conference, union representatives of seamen and David Cockroft, who was elected longshoremen prepared the docu­ ITF General Secretary, called for ment which was approved by the cooperation between sections. congress that outlined the ITF's campaign to aid mariners work­ eliminate runaway shipping and ing aboard runaway-flag ships. secure a link between a vessel's This program, which became flag and the nationality of its known as the "Geneva policy," owner. The group's second ob­ tightens up ITF procedures ap­ jective is protecting and enhanc­ plied to vessels operating under ing "the conditions of employment of seafarers serving so-called second registers. A device used by traditional aboard flag-of-convenience ves­ 'Trade Must Benefit Workers' maritime countries, second sels" and ensuring that those Delegates to the congress were registers allow a shipowner to fly mariners are "protected from ex­ addressed by Joaquin "Jack" the flag of that nation while ploitation by shipowners, ship Otero, deputy under secretary for operating under flag-of-con- managers and manning agents." The Seafarers' Section elected intemational labor affairs of the venience conditions. officers for the 1994-1998 term. J.S. Department of Labor, a post The new Geneva policy comSIU Secretary-Treasurer John le assumed in 1992. Prior to tihat, bines the ITF's previous Fay was elected to the vice-chair Otero had been an officer of the guidelines for its campaign ransportation Communications against substandard shipping, position. Delegates to the section Jnion and an long-time ITF ac­ documents known as the "Madrid conference also called on the In­ tivist. policy," which was established in temational Maritime Organiza­ Otero said workers eveiywhere 1983, and the 1990 "Toyko tion of the United Nations to address shipboard working hours in the world must be afforded the guidelines." right to better their lives and in­ The Geneva policy finds that and urged that an intemational fluence their governments if runaway-flag shipping has maritime safety institution be lobal competition is to work to brought about extremely negative founded. t le benefit of ordinary people. consequences for the industry, Founded in 1896, the ITF has Conducted simultaneously in such as depressed freight rates, many American affiliates. In ad­ English, Japanese, French, Ger­ underqualifled and underpaid dition to the Seafarers Intema­ man, Swedish and Spanish, the crews, slipshod ship maintenance tional Union, numerous TF congress delegates discussed and service, over-age ships and maritime labor groujps par­ le challenges posed to national shipowners who are unable to in­ ticipate in the ITF. U.S. unions ransport unions by the increas­ vest in new tonnage. from the rail, longshoring and ingly global character of coiporaThe document notes that the aviation sectors also are mem­ tions. Delegates also reviewed primary objective of the ITF is to bers of the ITF. he affects of expanded intermodelism, necessitating the need September 1994 or greater cooperation between Volume 56. Number 9 unions representing workers in one form of transport. The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 0160-2047) is published The congress, which meets monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, every four years, also adopted a Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District; AFL-CIO; 5201 number of resolutions emanating Auth Way; Camjp Springs, Md. 20746. Telephone (301) Tom its various sections. In addi­ 899-0675. Second-class postage paid at MSG Prince Geor7 tion to theSeafarers' Section and ges, Md. 20790-9998 and at additional mailing offices. )ockers' Section (representing POSTMASTER: Send addr^s changes to the Seafarers ongshoremen), the more than LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, Md. 20746. 500 unions from some 110 naions affiliated to the LondonManaging Editor, Dante/ Duncan; Associate Editors, Jar>ased ITF participate in sections dan Biscardo and Corrina Christensen; Associate br the following industries: inEditor/Production,-Defcora/f A, Hirtes; Art, Bill Brower; and navigation, fishing, rail­ Administrative Support, Jeanne Textor. roads, trucking, aviation and �:;-;W^^PiP?SfSSP "'KS .'j:••'•• 0. • r. - • •' :•'• -r- '••'-•'• ••x'~.''_i^:^-i^fy:r.<^-ix-'-'-'-'-'-_' SEPTEMBER 1994 SEAFARERS LOG 3 U.S. Ship BUI on Senate Fall Agenda Commerce Committee Staff Prepares Legislation for Mark Up The Senate is expected to act on legislation designed to revital­ ize the U.S.-flag merchant fleet when it returns from its Labor Day recess the week of Septem­ ber 12. » The Maritime Administration and Promotional Reform Act (H.R. 4003) was passed 294-122 by the House of Representatives on August 2. The bill then was sent to the Senate for considera­ tion by its Commerce, Science and Technology Committee, which will mark up the bill after the Labor Day recess. (When a bill is "marked up," it is approved by a conunittee and made ready for its next legislative step—^in this case, the full Senate.) House Bill Provisions As passed by the House, H.R. 4003 called for a 10-year, $1.35 billion program that would pro­ vide for a U.S.-flag ship operating program and aid for American shipbuilding. The program covers U.S.-flag liner vessels involved in foreign trade. To be eligible for con­ sideration, companies must agree to make dieir ships available to the Department of Defense (DOD) or allow space aboard the vessels for DOD cargo during a national emergency. To be in­ cluded, existing U.S.-flag ships can be no more than IS years old. Martin Marietta Tug Crews Vote Seafarers bv 37-2 the staff plan would set aside $1(X) million in Fiscal Year 1995 for Title XI loan guarantees that could fiind up to $1 billion in ves­ sel construction in the yards. After the House passed H.R. 4003, opposition to the flat ton­ nage fees was voiced by exporters of large bulk commodities, espe­ cially coal and grain interests. These groups claimed they would not remain competitive on the world market if the new toimage fees applied to them. Currently, vessels entering U.S. ports pay nine cents per registered ton if they arrive from a nearby Western Hemisphere foreign harbor and 27 cents per ton from all other destinations. The fees are collected only on the Senate Considers Changes first five visits made by a vessel The staff of the Senate Com­ each year. merce Committee is looking at Two-Year Effort possible ch^ges to the ftmding Action on maritime revitalizafor brmula in H.R. 4003. Under a proposal being tion legislation began in May reviewed by the committee, the 1993 when Rep. Gerry Studds (DSenate would keep H.R. 4003 as Mass.), the chairman on the a 10-year program, but reduce the House Merchant Marine and amount of revenue raised to $1 Fisheries Conunittee, was joined by Rep. Jack Fields (R-Texas), billion during that period. The dollars for the program the committee's ranking minority would be raised through fees col­ member; Rep. William Lipinslu lected when vessels dock in U.S. (D-Ill.), chairman of the House ports after sailing from foreign Merchant Marine Subcommittee; locations. However, the amount and Rep. Herbert Bateman (Rcharged per ton would vary with Va.), the subconunittee's ranking member, in introducing a bill the type of vessel. llie committee staff is propos­ (H.R. 2151) that outlined such a ing that general cargo vessels, proposal. Following a floor debate, H.R. such as containerships, would pay 81 cents per net registered ton 2151 passed the House by a 347 to 65 margin in November 1993. per visit. The fee for dry bulk and liquid However, the bill lacked a fund­ bulk vessels would be 27 cents ing mechanism. In early '94, Transportation per ton per visit. Finally, pas­ senger ships would pay 15 cents Secretary Federico Pena an­ nounced that the Clinton ad­ per ton per visit. These charges would be im­ ministration would include posed during the first four years funding for the 10-year maritime of the program, then reduced for revitalization program. In March, the remaining six years, as the bill H.R. 4003 was formally intro­ is being drawn by the committee duced as a bill, and by August it had passed the House. It must staff. To help American shipyards. now pass in the Senate. and foreign-built vessels that are re-flagged for operation under the U.S. flag must be under 10 years of age. TTie money would be raised through a 38-cent per registered ton duty collected on all vessels entering U.S. harbors from foreign ports. The only exception was made for vessels sailing on the Great Lakes between the U.S. and Canada. The duty would be im­ posed on the first 25 voyages to American ports each year. Through this funding mechanism, approximately $135 million would be raised each year between Fiscal Year 1995 and 2004. Boatmen at the Marine Ocean The chance to upgrade and for the company and for the Navy, Engineering Department (MOE) having a written contract also and we expect to be treated fairly. of Martin Marietta Services, Inc. in were cited by Rick Rinehart as We're hoping that with the Fajaido, Puerto Rico last month reasons for voting in favor of the union's help, that will happen." voted to he represented by the SIU. "We needed help, and 1 Basic Repairman Andy Carthink being in the union is going rasquillo also voted "yes." He Seafarers Intemational Union. By a count of 37-2 in an elec­ to give us a lot of opportunitiesfor said he believes that belonging to tion conducted under the auspices advancement," said Rinehart, the the SIU "will help us get fair of an impartial government agen­ second mate on the supply ship wages and safe working condi­ cy (the Nationd Labor Relations USNS Hugo. "We do a good job tions." Board), MOE employees desig­ nated the SIU as their collective bargaining representative. The MOE workers maintain and operate several types of ves­ sels which are used to support the Atlantic Fleet Weapons Training Facility at the U.S. Naval Station at Roosevelt Roads. The ratings that are included in the bargain­ ing unit are chief offlcer, second officer, chief engineer, certain classes of marine technicians, basic repairer and repair tech­ nician. Also included are facility monitors, who work on shore. Since the election, which took New members of the Seafarers include (from left) 8. Pagan, A. place August 16 at the Navy base, Carrasqulllo, W. Evans, P. Torrens and D. Lopez. the SIU has been preparing for contract talks with the company. At press time, those talks were scheduled to begin on Septem­ ber 6. Peter Torrens, who works aboard a retrieval craft at the base, said he voted for union repre­ sentation because "we're tired of being stepped on. I think the union will help us get a decent contract with the company." Seafarers and their families are encouraged to contact their Bill Puhley, first officer senators and urge their support aboard the USNS Hunter (a supp­ for the Maritime Administration ly vessel), said that he is "looking and Promotional Reform Act forward to having everything in (H.R. 4003). black and white, in a contract." The bill, which is designed to He added that he wants to take create a 10-year program to fund advantage of the chance to Among the boatmen who voted for union representation are (from left, a minimum of 52 U.S.-flag ves­ upgrade his skills at the Paul Hall kneeling) C. Molinaris, R. Figueroa, (standing) A. Acosta, D. Rivera, sels, is before the Senate Com­ Center for Maritime Training and J. Valentin, A. Rodriguez and Ricky Alvarez. merce, Science and Technology Education in Piney Point, Md. Committee. Last month, H.R. 4003 passed the House of Repre­ sentatives by a 294 to 122 margin. SIU members and their families should write or call their state's two senators. The elected officials should be told not only why passage is important to the individual caller, but also what it will mean to the country. Among the points that a Seafarer can raise in his or her communication with a senator are the following: ^ • H.R. 4003 will provide jobs for tens of thousands of American families involved in the U.S.-flag shipping industries. These are good paying jobs that • . .. s"- ' ' i'.; ; Jim J ft. Ji'u Seafarers Urged to Contact Senators to Pass H.R. 4003 Some of the Martin Marietta ci«ws whovot(^ to be represented by the^fareretetematton^^^^^ (from left, front row) W. Barr, M. Seres, J. Sokolowski, (l)ack row) P. Woods, J. Ap6 , . Perusse, W, Puhle and M. Locklier. families to be financially , . ggcure. Also, unions that repre- sent mariners traditionally have provided employment oppor­ tunities to individuals for under­ privileged communities, which lave enabled thousands of disad­ vantaged young people to play a productive role in American society. • H.R. 4003 would continue support for America's national defense through sealift. Throughout his nation's history, America's militray conflicts have been on foreign lands, thousands of miles away. Sealift has proved to be the only cost-effective way to transport materiel to the troops. A strong U.S.-flag shipping capability assures the U.S. armed forces that a fleet of ships and a pool of manpower is ready and available to crew vessels when they break out. • America's economic security is strengthened Uuough a strOiig U.S.-flag merchant fleet. Governments armind the world invest in their national fleets through direct and indirect sub­ sidies, tax policies, cargo allocaContinued on page 5 J).:: -1... •• •riM' r;'' �4 SEPTEMRER1994 SEAFARERS LOG In Siiort Fail Session, Congress Faces Host of Maritimo Bills ll" When Congress returns from its Labor Day recess later this month, the elected officials will have approximately one month before adjournment to address an array of legislation that includes several maritime-related biUs. The legislators are seeking to leave Washington by mid-Oc­ tober in order to campaign for elections in their districts on November 8. Foremost among the bills before Congress that deal with the U.S.-flag merchant fleet is the Maritime Administration and Promotional Reform Act (H.R. 4003). After being passed 294-122 by the House on August 2, H.R. 4003 is awaiting action by the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee. H.R. 4003 provides the fund­ ing mechanism for another bill overwhelmingly passed by the House in November 1993 (H.R. Sliipping Bills Before Congress Bill Description Action Maritime Revitalizalion Provides a 10-year funding program for U.S.-flag liner ves­ sels active In Intematlonal commerce Passed by House; Sdnata consideration expectedinSepiernber Awaiting action by HouseMer­ chant Maiine and Rsheries Com­ mittee 2151) that outlined a 10-year pro the committee that improving in­ gram to revitalize the U.S.-fla land safety is one of his agency's Inland Waterways Calls for tugs, tows and pusfitraats to be equipped witfi merchant fleet. Safety "highest priorities." communications and naviga­ The Towing Vessel Act (H.R. tion gear; requires tioatmen to Calls for Fee Collection hold z-cards; mandates ves­ 4058) incorporates many of the sels be operated by licensed In passing H.R. 4003, the ideas presented by Pefia. Among masters and mates House called for a 38-cent per ton them are requirements for tugs, Passed by duty to be collected from all ves tows and pushboats to carry radar, US-Flag Passenger Closes loopholes that permit House; awaits ac­ foreign-flag vessels to sail Act sels entering U.S. ports from al communications and navigation Vessel tion by Senate "cruises to nowhere" from (Taylor BIII) foreign harbors, except Great equipment; for vessel operators to U.S. ports Lakes traffic between the U.S be licensed masters and mates Marked up by Allows foreign-flag cruise ves­ Passenger and Canada. The fee would be who 'have demonstrated US House Merchant sels to register under U.S. flag Vessel Develop­ Marine and and carry American crews collected on the first 25 voyages proficiency with their equipment; ment Act Fisheries Com­ provldea owner signs contract BIII) (Unsoeld annually by a vessel. It woulc and for all boatmen working mittee; before to build and builds replace­ House Natural ment vessel In U.S. shipyard raise an average of $135 million aboard inland vessels to hold U.S. Resources and a year from Fiscal Year 1995 to Coast Guard-issued merchant Ways and Means committees 2004. mariner documents. Also on the agenda for legis­ vessels to sail from and return to ness Bill, H.R. 44, would extend Other Legislation Proposed lators are inland waterways safety the same American port as long as the same dates (December 7, Another bill before the com­ bills. 1941 to December 31, 1946) for The House Merchant Marine mittee is the Towing Vessel these ships do not stop at any veterans status to World War IIother port. (These voyages are and Fisheries Committee has held Navigational Safety Act (H.R. era merchant mariners as those several hearings to find ways to 3282). This legislation calls for known as "cruises to nowhere ") who served in the U.S. armed make America's rivers, shipping furnishing tugs, tows and push- No date for Senate consideration forces. The bill is before the channels and other inland water­ boats with navigational and com- has been set. equipment. The House Merchant Marine House Committee on Veterans' ways safer. In March, Transporta­ munications Affairs. tion Secretary Federico Pefia told Provisions similar to those in and Fisheries Committee last H.R. 3282 have been included in month approved legislation, H.R. Would Extend Coverage the Coast Guard authorization bill 3821, that would permit foreignAfter being approved by the which cleared the Senate Com­ flag cruise ships sailing from U.S. House Committee on Education merce, Science and Transporta­ ports to re-flag with the Stars and and Labor, H.R. 1517 awaits ac­ tion Committee in August. Stripes and use American crews tion by the full body. A bill that During this session. Congress provided a replacement vessel of would extend U.S. federal labor has been looking at various ways to similar size is contracted and built laws to runaway-flag vessels that Part of a legislative package under the U.S. flag. The amend­ establish a U.S.-flag cruise fleet. in a U.S. shipyard. H.R. 3821, the call on U.S. ports has cleared which would place the U.S. flag ment was offered by Repre­ Last November, the House U.S. Passenger Vessel Develop­ House committees and awaits full on foreign-flag cruise vessels, sentative Jolene Unsoeld passed the U.S.-Flag Passenger ment Act, is now before the floor action. thus increasing employment op­ (D-Wash.), the primary sponsor Vessel Act (H.R. 1250), which is House Natural Resources Com­ For any bill not completed by portunities for American mer­ of the U.S. Passenger Vessel designed to close loopholes in the mittee. the time Congress adjourns, work chant mariners, has cleared its Development Act. Passenger Vessel Act of 1886 and on that legislation would have to There are several other pieces Under the Unsoeld amendment, first committee in the Congress. the Jones Act of 1920. The U.S. start again when the newly of maritime-related legislation On August 11, the House Mer­ if a shipowner who has re-flagged Customs Service has used the within the congressional hopper. elected Congress convenes in chant Marine and Fisheries Com­ a vessel under the U.S. flag does not loopholes to allow foreign-flag The Merchant Mariners Fair­ January 1995. mittee gave its support to H.R. build a replacement vessel, the 3821, one of two bills that make original ship will be prohibited up the U.S. Passenger Vessesl from enterihg a U.S. port and its Development Act. The bill was shipowner permanently barred then forwarded to the House from the U.S. craise trade. Natural Resources Committee, The committee kept other which will review and possibly provisions of the bill intact, in­ amend the legislation before it is cluding the measure that American merchant mariners sent to the House floor. After two years at the helm of H.R. 3821 allowed foreign- would crew the foreign-flag ves­ the nation's Military Sealift Comflag cruise ships sailing from U.S. sel once it came under the mand (MSC), Vice Admiral ports to be re-flagged under the American flag. Vfichael P. Kalleres retired folIn order to be considered by owing more than 30 years of ac­ American flag if a ship's owner replaces the vessel with another the act, vessels must weigh at tive duty in the U.S. Navy. cruise ship built in an American least 10,000 gross tons and have Relieving Kalleres as the com­ yard. A vessel owner would be at least 200 berths. Cruise ships mander of the military's sealift required to enter into a contract that are built in U.S. yards to arm during change-of-command within 12 months of re-flagging. replace the original foreign-flag and retirement ceremonies held at In the following 12 months, con­ vessels must carry at least 80 per­ the Washington Navy Yard on struction for the replacement ves­ cent of the passenger capacity of August 11 is Vice Admiral Philip sel or vessels would begin. Once the original. VI. Quast. the replacement vessel is ready, When the act was introduced He comes to MSC after serv­ the original foreign-flag ship in April, the SIU testified that the ing as the director of the Surface would be transferr^ back to its legislation could stimulate the Warfare Division, Chief of Naval original flag of registry. creation of more than 30,000 Operations staff. seafaring jobs in addition to those Amending the Bill Directed Somalia Sealift produced in U.S. shipyards, port The Departrtient of Transpor­ facilities During his tenure with MSC, and related fields. tation and the U.S. Trade Repre­ MilHaty Sealift Command Calleres directed the Navy's The union noted the act would sealift operation during the U.S. The new head of the Military Sealift Command, Vice Adm. Philip sentative raised concerns about the requirement that a ship, once help increase marine safety be­ relief effort for the people of Quast, leads his predecessor, Vice Adm. Michael Kalleres, to the replac^, would be forced back to cause the crews on the vessels Somalia. Known as Operation change of command ceremony. would be Americans who must Restore Hope, more than 95 per­ its original flag. The administration repre­ meet this country's strict regula­ cent of the supplies and equip­ USS Dewey, two destroyer surface action group in support of sentatives told House Merchant tions and standards. ment used between December squadrons and a cruiser-destroyer U.S.-flajg tanker transits through Good for National Defense Marine and Fisheries Committee 992 and March 1994 in support group as well as the U.S. Navy's the Strait of Hormuz. Ashore, Quast has held assign­ members that forcing a ship back Also, the SIU pointed out the of the United Nations-led opera­ Second Fleet. His shoreside ex­ perience includes strategic plan­ ments at the U.S. Naval Academy to its original registry won d vio­ legislation would strengthen na­ tion were moved aboard MSC ning, financial management and and Naval Military Personnel late the world trade agreement tional security because the addi­ vessels. personnel policy jobs. Among his Command. He holds the known as GATT. The provision tional U.S.-flag vessels could be (At the height of the involve­ 18 military awards and decora­ Meritorious Service Medal, Navy of GAIT that would be violated, used as floating command/control ment in December 1992, a total of tions is the Defense Distin­ Commendation Medal and a 7 SlU-crewed vessels were as­ the administration sources centers, hospit^s and barracks. guished Service Medal. bronze star with combat "V" believe, is the one that allows a Presently, there are only two signed to the effort.) among his decorations and Command's 20th Chief nation to liberalize its maritime U.S.-flag passenger ships operat­ Before taking command of awards. Vise, Kalleres had served in a laws if prior protections are not ing around the world on the high Quast began his career as an invoked in the future. seas—the SlU-crewed SS Inde­ variety of assignments for the ensign in the U.S. Naval Reserve In becoming MSC's 20th To address the concerns of the pendence and SS Constitution. 4avy. He graduated from Purdue in 1961. The Wisconsin native commanding officer, Quast will administration, at the August 11 More than 4million people, 85 per­ Jniversity in 1962. His tours of served in Vietnam. As the com­ be in charge of coordinating the meeting of the House Merchant cent of whom were Americans, duty included Cuba in 1%2, the missioning commanding officer milita^'s waterbome transport of Marine and Fisheries Committee, sailed on the more than 120 cruise Dominican Republic in 1965, aboard the USS Bunker Hill be­ materiel for U.S. armed forces. H.R. 3821 was amended to allow ships located around the world in Vietnam in 1971-72 and Libya in tween July 1985 and April 1988, The MSC fleet consists of ap­ a ship that had been transferred to 1992 and spent approximately $5 1981. he also served as the commander proximately 150 civilian and Kalleres has commanded the of the battleship USS Missouri military-crewed vessels. U.S. registry to permanently stay )illion. House AcUon Pnweeds On U.S, Cruise Ship Biii Kalleres Retires as MSG Chief; Quasi Assumes Navy Command I J /'I �gSi?;J:''; •••: .• -r ,:? SEPmmBER 1994 SE9FME9SL0G 5 Patriot Grew Ahb Staudetl PenMau Rshamea Seafarers aboard the MV without engine power, more than Patriot recently came to die aid of 100 miles off the coast of Peru in five Peruvian fishermen whose the Pacific Ocean. boat was drifting for five days In a letter to the Sectfarers S -, LOG, Chief Steward Howard G. Williams reported that the Patriot, a tanker operated by Vul­ can Carriers, was en route to Chile when crewmembers spotted the disabled fishing boat. "They were flying distress flags and waving their hands," Wil­ liams wrote. "A makeshift sail was up, but it was not working. As the Patriot approached the fishermen, AB Daii Gaylor went to the galley to request help from Chief Cook Daniel Payne in communicating with them. Speaking Spanish with the fisher­ men (and translating for the other crewmembers aboard the Patriot), Payne learned that the Chlef Cook Daniel Payne (with bullhorn) translates between the Pemvians had been working for Pafriof captain and the Peruvian fishermen, who were drifting without 10 days and were nearly ready to power more than 1GO miles off the coast of Peru. head for port when the boat ran out of fuel and the batteries went bers "gave the fishermen fuel, hours, boxing up food supplies dead. They subsequently drifted water, food, cigarettes and jump- and more." for five days and were almost out started their batteries," Williams With the grateful fishermen of drinking water. The only food noted. "Captain S.M. Kearney headed back to their home port in left on board was the fish caught thanked the SIU crewmembers Peru, the Pat/ior resumed its nor­ earlier during the trip. for their effort and sacrifice. mal schedule, noted Williams, AB Roger Plaud (left) and Chief Steward Howard Williams take After contacting the Peruvian Everyone pitched in to help, han­ who also provided the photos ac­ drinking water and provisions to the stranded fishermen. coast guard. Patriot crewmem- dling lines and hoses for two companying this article. Seafarers Urged to Contact Senators to Support Ship Bill Continued from page 3 tion programs, credit schemes and much more. America's ex­ ports and imports should not be allowed to be solely carried on ships flying the flags of foreign nations, which could leave open the possibility of America being held hostage to the rates and political agendas of those nations. The effectiveness of a per­ sonal letter from a voter to an elected official should not be un­ derestimated. It has a great deal of effect. That is why communica­ tions from Seafarers to their senators can make a big dif­ ference. Below is an example of a letter that could be written to senators as well as the names and addres­ ses for all 100 of the elected offi­ cials. SIU members and their families should write to the two senators from their home state. Hand-written letters tend to get the attention of elected officials faster than those that are type­ written. Sample Letter 5^;'S 'i&sA:Vf - ''S Address of Sender Phone Number of Sender Date The Honorable , Office Building United States Senate Washington, DC 20510 Where to Write Your State's U.S. Senators Listed below ate the names and Capitol Hill addres­ ses forall 100 U.S. senators. In writing to them for their support of the maritime program which passed the House last month, address diem in the following maiuier: The Honorable . Office Building United States Senate Washington, DC 20510 SENATOR ADDRESS Miss. Thad Cochran Trent Lett 326 Russell BIdg. 487 Russell BIdg. Mo. John Danforth Christopher Bond 249 Russell BIdg. 293 Russell BIdg. Mont. Max Baucus Conrad Bums 511 Hart BIdg. 183 DIrksen BIdg. Neb. James Exon Robert Kerrey 528 Hart BIdg. 303 Hart BMg. SENATOR ADDRESS Ala. Howell Heflln Richard Shelby 728 Hart BIdg. 509 Hart BIdg. Nev. Harry ReM Richard Bryan 324 Hart BMg. 384 Russell BMg. Alaska Ted Stevens Frank MurkowskI 522 Hart BIdg. 708 Hart BIdg. N.H. Robert Smith Judd Gregg 33? Dirksen BMg. 393 Russell BIdg. Ariz. Dennis DeConcini John McCain 328 Hart BIdg. Ill Russell BIdg. N.J. Bill Bradley Frank Lautenberg 731 Hart BMg. 508 Hart BMg. f Ark. Dale Bumpers David Pryor 229 Dirksen BIdg. 287 Russell BIdg. N.M. Pete Domenid Jeff Bingaman 427 Dirksen BMg. 110 Hart BMg. Calif. Dianne Feinstein Barbara Boxer 331 Hart BIdg. 112 Hart BIdg. N.Y. Daniel Patrick Moynihan Alfonse D'Amato 484 Russell BMg. 520 Hart BMg. Colo. Hank Brown Ben Nighthorse Campbell 718 Hart BIdg. 380 Russell BIdg. N.C. Jesse Helms Lauch FaircMth 403 Dirksen BMg. 702HartRMg Conn. Christopher Dodd Joseph Uebennan 444 Russell BIdg. 318 Hart BIdg. N.D. Itent Conrad Byron Dorgan 724 Hart BMg. 713 Hart BMg. Del. WiiiiamRolh Joseph'Biden 104 Hart BIdg. 221 Russell BIdg. Ohio John Glenn Howard Metzenbaum 503HartRMg. 140RusseURMg. Ra. Bob Graham Connie Mack 524 Hart BIdg. 517 Hart BIdg. Okia. DavMBoren DonNiddes 453 Russell BMg. 133 Hart BMg. Ga. Sam Nunn Paul Coverdell 303 Dirksen BIdg. 200 Russell BIdg. Ore. MarkHatfieM BobPackwood 711 Hart BMg. 259 Russell BMg. Hawaii Daniel Inouye Daniel Akaka 722 Hart BIdg. 720 Hart BIdg. Penn. Arlen Spader Harris Wofford 530 Hart BMg. 521 Dirksen BMg. Idaho Larry Craig Dirk Kempthome 313 Hart BIdg. 387 Dirksen BIdg. R.i. Claiborne Pell JohnChafee 335 Russell BMg 567 Dirksen BMg. III. Paul Simon Carol Moseley-Braun 482 Dirksen BkJg. 320 Hart BIdg. S.C. Strom Thumnond Ernest Hdlings 217 Russell BMg. 125 Russell BIdg. Ind. Richard Lugar Dan Coats 308 Hart BIdg. 404 Russell BMg. S.D. Larry Pressler Tbomas Daschle 283 Russell BMg. 317 Hart BMg. Iowa Charles Grassley Tom Harkin 135 Hart BkJg. 531 Hart BIdg. Tenn. Jim Sasser Harlan Mathews 383 Russell RMg. 508 Dirksen BMg. Kan. Bob Dole Nancy Kassebaum 141 HartRkig. 302 Russell BIdg. Texas PhilGramm Kay Bailey Hutchinson 370 Russell BMg. 703 Hart BMg. Ky. Wendell Ford Mitch McDonnell 173A Russell BIdg. Utah 120 Russell BIdg. OrrinHateh Robert Bennett 135 Russell BMg. 24J Dirksen BMg. La. J. Bennett Johnston JohnBreaux 138 Hart BMg. 516 Hart BMg. Vt. Patrick Leahy James Jeffords 433 Russell BMg. 513 Hart BMg. Maine William Cohen George Mitchell 322 Hart BMg. 178 Russell BMg. Va. John Warner Charles Robb 225 Russell BMg. 493 Russell BMg. Md. Paul Sartianes Barbara MIkulski 309 Hart BMg. 708 Hart BMg. Wash. Siade Gorton Patty Murray 730 Hart BMg. 302 Hart QMg. Mass. Edward Kennedy John Kerry 315 Russell BMg. 421 Russell BMg. W.V. Robert Byrd ^y Rockefeller 311HartBMg. lOOHaitBMg. Mich. Donald Riegle Carl Levin 105 Dirksen BMg. 459 Russell BMg. Wis. Herbltohl Russell FeingoM 330 Hart 502HartBMg. Minn. Dave Durenberger PaulWeUslone 154 Russell BMg. 717 Hart BMg. Wyo. Malcolm WaiMp Alan Simpson 237 Russell RMg 261 Dirksen BMg. i. •. Sincerely, Name of Sender STATE STATE Dear Senator. As a citizen of your state who earns a living as a merchant mariner, I urge you to support H.R. 4003, called the "Maritime Security and Trade Act of1994" in the Commerce Committee's staff draft. I believe that it is very important to our country that we maintain our U.S.-flag merchant fleet. Thanks to the efforts of my union, the Seafarers, I am able perform a job I love by going to sea and provide for the welfare of my family. / also believe America needs its merchant fleet to protect our national security. The whole country was reminded of the value ofsealift when we had to move troops and weapons to the Persian Gulf to battle Iraq. America cannot afford to depend on the mariners of other nations to support our own soldiers. As I understand it, H.R. 4003does not increase the nation­ al deficit. In fact, it will not only help our merchant fleet, but also offset the cost of some of the navigational assistance we provide to ships of all flags. All of us associated with the U.S. Merchant Marine need your help and support. Thank you for your consideration and I lookforward to seeing your name as one of the senators who stood up for us by voting for H.R. 4003. .V- '•vMi'. -y-. .•m-. .M �6 SEPTEMBER 1994 SEAFARERS LOG Effort Under Way to Update international Shipping Accord UN Organization Looks to Establish Minimum Standards for World's Seafarers International efforts are under way to update a 1978 convention that established the minimum standards for certification, train­ ing and skills needed by seafarers around the world. The International Maritime Organization (IMG), which was created by the United Nations in 1959 to improve safety at sea, has set a 1995 deadline for complet­ ing the work of representatives from more than 90 nations, in­ cluding the United States, that recognize the treaty. Among the participants representing the U.S. in the meetings are the U.S. Coast Guard, maritime labor (including the SIU) and U.S.-flag shipping companies. The SIU also has ob­ servers monitoring and making recommendations during the The Annex is divided into six forth in foe 1978 document. How­ various work group meetings tfiat with current world practices. chapters, containing specific ever, at all levels, the current are designed to modfy the accord. Accidents Force Action technical regulations applying to standards for training and The IMG has charged its Sub­ Pressures to review the docu­ training, certification and qualification that must be met by committee of Training and ment were brought to bear on the U.S. seafarers are much higher than watchkeeping for seafarers. The Watchkeeping to modify the IMG in light of numerous those outlined in foe convention. chapters consist of general 1978 International Convention maritime disasters that have oc­ The 1978 accord is aimed at provisions, deck department, en­ on the Standards of Training, Cer- curred over the past several years eliminating inadequate, as well as department, radio personnel, gine tiflcation and Watchkeeping to which have been attributed to supplementing, insufficient re­ update and match training re­ human error, including the January special tanker requirements and quirements among foe shipping quirements with current and fu 1993 break-up of the Liberian- proficiency in survival craft. nations of foe world. The act also The convention was amended ture technologies. flagged tanker Braer off the coast in 1991 to account for new train­ provides developing countries This action wiU allow the sub­ of Scotland. The 797-foot vessel who are in foe process of building committee to review such items spilled 26 inillion gallons of oil into ing requirements, such as those their own merchant fleets with in­ associated with the Global as ensuring the fitness o the North Sea when it went down ternationally acceptable require­ Maritime Distress and Safety watchstanders, basic training for during severe weather. ments and standards. System and to provide for con­ seafarers, fatigue, work-hour Subsequent to the Braer acci­ trolled trials wifo automated and While doing this, foe conven­ limits, rest periods and the man dent, IMG Secretary-General integrated systems. tion does not override foe laws of ning implications of convention William G'Neil asked the sub­ nations like the United States if Seeks Alternative Means changes. Because the presen committee to prepare a review of they maintain higher standards Whereas the original 1978 convention is 16 years old, the the 1978 accord, which was the and qualifications. IMG believes the time has come first worldwide attempt to set document deals only with train­ However, SIU members could to review it and bring it up to date minimum standards and ing and qualification to hold guidelines for the training and recognized positions or titles for see a direct effect in increased qualifications of mariners.In fact, both licensed and unlicensed per­ training requirements in foe form the convention is the only interna­ sonnel aboard vessels, the sub­ of practical examinations if and tional treaty to establish mini­ committee now is looking at when the accord is modified mum stancteds for training and alternative means to certify the during present talks. The SIU not only monitors the qualifying crewmembers for same mariners by describing the work of foe IMG's Subcommittee ftinctions each must perform to seagoing duty. of Training and Watchkeeping to The convention, which was hold the position. Essentially, the ensure that the interests of updated convention will offer two ratified by the United States in 1991, is organized into two parts: systems for providing certifica­ American seafarers are repre­ Articles and Annex. Uie Articles tion of vessel personnel: the tradi­ sented but also to work toward set forth the legal obligations of tional approach and the increasing foe qualifications of foe world's seamen, particularly each state-party to certify functional approach. As the United States is a sig­ those who are exploited by seafarers' competence issued by other state-parties, except under natory to the convention, the mer­ runaway-flag shipowners who strictly limited circumstances. chant mariner documents and skimp on standards by avoiding The Articles also establish proce­ licenses held by American the more stringent laws and dures by which the convention mariners are recognized by the regulations of foe countries with IMG as meeting foe criteria set a strong maritime tradition. can be amended. Seafanrs Appnve 4-Year Pad With Pern Maritime Boatmen in Port Arthur Keep Up-to-Date The SlU-orewed tugboat Dolphin is the latest addition to the Penn Maritime fleet. Seafarers recently ratified a new four-year pact with the oil transportation company. A new four-year pact that covers wages and benefits was approved last month by Seafarers sailing aboard Penn Maritime, Inc. tugboats and barges. Members voted on August 17 in the Norfolk, Va. union hall in favor of the contract which will increase wages, provide out­ patient medical care for their spouses and dependents and uncap the pension limit. The new agreement is retroactive to May I. T^e SIU represents all crewmembers aboard Penn Maritime tugs. A six-man negotiating team met with company officials on April 21 and July 14 to work on the contract. Representing Seafarers at the bargaining table were Tankerman Donald Douglas n. Mate James Kelly Jr., AB/Tankerman Donald Larsen, AB/Tankerman William Lee Matthews, Mate Glenn Wactor and AB/Tankerman Robert Wooten. They were as­ sisted by SIU Assistant Vice President, Lakes and Inland Waters Anthony Sacco and Nor­ folk Port Agent Mike Paladino. Among the Penn Maritime vessels included in the contract is the company's newest tugboat, the Dolphin. Built in 1973, the Dolphin recently was acquired by the company and refitted with an elevated bridge that will allow visibility when the tug is push­ ing a light barge. The 126-foot vessel is capable of 4,300 horse­ power. Penn Maritime is in the process of building two more tugs for its fleet. Both are capable of generating 7,000 horsepower. The first of the pair is expected to be sailing by early 1995. The Npifolk-based company transports petroleum along the U.S. East and Gulf coasts. Boatmen from foe Port Arthur, Texas area have been keeping up with foe latest happenings in foe inland industry as well as in foe SIU through informational union meetings held every other month. "These meetings have been very helpful," noted Captain Roy Golden, who sails aboard Higman Towing vessels. "We're able to take information back to foe rest of foe crew who are sailing and caimot attend." The gatherings, which began in 1992, take place at foe Ramada im on Highway 87 in Port Ar­ thur. During foe sessions, boat­ men are able to discuss issues that affect them on foe job, such as safety concerns. The meetings also serve to up­ date foe members on foe latest information about legislation pending in Washington, D.C. that deals with foe inland industry and maritime as a whole. Besides Higman, crews firom added Moran Captain Jim Zenos. Sabine Towing, Moran and "It's a good opportunity to meet Crowley also are among foe crews other crews who may face similar re])resented at the meetings. situations and havefound ways to "I try to attend whenever I'm deal with them." home," said Sabine Towing En­ The next meeting for Port Ar­ gineer Kenny Moore. "I find foe thur area members is set for 2 p.m. meetings useful." on Wednesday, September 7. For "I'd encourage all foe boatmen more information, contact the in foe area to m^e foe meetings," SIU hall in Houston. Boatmen from Higman Towing, Sabine Towing, Moran and Crowley discuss issues affecting the inland industry during a recent informa­ tional membership meeting in Port Arthur. Texas. UIW Members March for Back Pay Sheridan Crews Ratify New Three-Year Agreement SIU members sailing with Sheridan Transportation have ratified a new three-year agree­ ment that increases benefits and wages during the life of the pact. Seafarers with the Philadel­ phia-based company will be able to receive outpatient medical care for spouses and dependent children under the new contract which is retroactive to May 1. The agreement also removes die pen­ sion cap for members. The negotiating committee con­ sisting of Cook Ernest Gibbs, AB William Morris, AB Homer Shipes and Norfolk Port Agent Mite Paladino met with company officials in April and July to work out the details of the new contract. Voting on the agreement took place in the Norfolk union hall on August 9. Tugs and barges operated by Sherid^ sail along the East and Gulf coasts carrying sugar, coal, iron and other materials. The ves­ sels operate year-round. Hundreds of membersof the SlU's industrial division, the United Industrial Workers (UIW). last month tumed out for a demonstration in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Along with fellow trade unionists, the UIW members, who are government employees, protested the Virgin Islands' inaction regarding the tens of millions of dollars owed to government workers on the islands of St. Thomas and St. Croix. The employees have legally binding contracts for retroactive pay increases, but thus far they have not received the scheduled raises. �SEPTBmRl994 SBmUtBRSLOa Six Seafarers were recognized Gulf, Lakes and Inland Walprs at the August membership meet­ District), and I just want to thank ing in Piney Point, Md. as the SIU for everything," he said. graduates of die union's highest "I'm married to a wonderful per­ curriculum for galley gang mem son, we have four kids, and the hers. SIU has allowed me to support Radames Cosme, Toyo Gon­ my family for 20 years." zales, Patrick Helton, Brenda 'Beneficiar Course Kamlya, Robert Mosley and Helton, who joined the union Ronald Tarantino successfully nine years ago and who sails from completed the five-week course. the port of San Francisco, said he At the graduation ceremony found thecourse "very beneficial. and in interviews with the I was able to improve my com­ Seafarers LOG prior to the mem­ puter skills, refresh myself on bership meeting, each recertified safety training and get new ideas steward expressed appreciation on healthy menus and how to for being selected to participate in prepare them." the course. Several also ad­ Cosme, whose home port is dressed the trainees in the audience during the meeting, en­ The six Seafarers graduating from the steward recertlficatlon course pose here with their instructor, Byran Puerto Rico, summed up the class couraging them to upgrade often Cummings (far right). They are (from left, front row) Radames Cosme, Brenda Kamiya, Ron Tarantino, as being "thorough and helpful. I learned a lot, and I recommend to at the Paul Hall Center's Harry (back row) Patrick Helton, Toyo Gonzales and Robert Mosley. all Seafarers that upgrading is the Lundeberg School of Seaman­ ship. The students in the recertifiet ture/demonstration facility; first aid and firefighting. Things way to go." "The career opportunities are steward class studied a broac brushed up on shipboard sanita­ have changed over the past 13 here, but you have to earn it," range of topics. They practicec tion procedures; studied mathe­ years, and I learned a lot from all Mosley told the trainees. "Don't various cooking techniques anc matics relevant to the food of the instructors." expect it to be easy. You must baking applications in the Paul service industry; engaged in Kamiya, who joined the union apply yourself and do your best." Hall Center's modern lec- cooking competitions including a 14 years ago, stressed that the chili cook-off; and honed their class covers "many subjects that menu-planning skills and other are major, direct parts of work on galley management functions board a ship. There's no doubt using computers. this will help rne improve my work. Safety Emphasized "It has been educational and They also earned certification an honor to be part of this pro­ in first aid, CPR and firefighting gram." procedures; studied communica­ Family Matters tions principles and learning tech­ niques; examined the movement Tarantino, who graduated toward healthier menus; and from the trainee program in 1980 practiced making special sauces and who has upgraded several and dishes that are popular in times, noted that his wife recently speciftc regions of the world. gave birth to a son, Vincenzo. In addition, the new recertified "And I hope that he one day will stewards met for question-and- go to the coDege of American answer sessions- with repre­ merchant marines: Piney Point," sentatives from each of the said the elder Tarantino, who sails union's departments.They spoke fix)m the port of Houston. with officials from the SIU's col­ Family life also was on the lective bargaining department; mind of Mosley. "I joined the government affairs department; Marine Cooks and Stewards in welfare, vacation, training and 1973 (five years before that union Patrick Helton practices his CPR pension funds; and the LOG. merg^ with the SIU's Atlantic, skills on a dummy. Finally, they traveled to SIU Listening to instructions is Ron Robert Mosley prepares a pan of headquarters in Camp Springs, Md. and to nearby Capitol Hill, Tarantino. lasagna. where they spoke with Maritime Trades Department Executive Secretary-Treasurer Frank Pecquex about major legislative is­ sues which affect the maritime industry. Computers a Hit With the wide range of ac­ tivities on their agenda, most of the stewards listed the computer training which they received at the school as a course highlight. "Learning to do spreadsheets and menu planning on the com­ puter was very worthwhile," said Gonzales, a 13-year member of the SIU who sails from Seattle. 'Also, it was great to redo CPR, Brenda Kamiya cites the computer training as a course highlight. '.ii' •"} -•.ii" '"'f' M'W: • 1- mk:' 1 ••I .'•'Ui' •M'k ••r.]. Patrick Helton (left) gets a culinary tip from instructor Ed Whjte. • -•'W -• A: Radames Cosme (left) and Brenda Kamiya work together Lundebeg School's lecture/demonstration galley J- 7 The entire class completes a CPR drill, while instructor Byran Cummings observes their techniques. �SEPTEMBER 1994 More than 100 SIU members exams administered by the Coast who work aboard the cruise ships Guard. SS Independence and SS Con­ Barry, who worked as a car­ stitution recently earned U.S. penter-joiner on i\\e Inde­ Coast Guard lifeboat certifica­ pendence several years ago, tions after taking an on-site pointed out that one benefit of course conducted by the Paul Hall conducting the courses aboard the Center's Lundeberg School of Independence and the Constitu­ Seamanship. tion is that Seafarers train with the SIU Patrolman Stephen Barry, actual equipment they would use then working as an instructor, in case of an emergency, versus directed the classes for two training with other gear. _ months (one month on each ship) Known among Seafarers as while the vessels operated oil "Great White Ships," because of their normal schedules around the the clean white exteriors main­ Hawaiian Islands. He reported an tained by SIU deck department outstanding pass rate on both members, passengers aboard the ships. Independence and Constitution "The members did very well. look forward to the week-long They really have to make an ef­ cruises which include lavish , fort, because they're also work­ entertainment and beautifully Posing on deck are (from left, first row) Jacinto Saigado, Roy Robinson, Ramon Duran, Speros Mookas, Hitario Martinez, Paul Deiiosso, (standing) Joe Marusak, Mohamad Saleh, Jan Tolentino, Thomas ing their regular shifts," said prepared and served meals Once aboard the ships," many Hastings, Becky Warberg, Dan Gibbons, Demara DuFrene, Gilbert Black, Stephen Barry (instructor) and Bany, who graduated from the Lundeberg School in 1986 and passengers express appreciation USCG Commander Ray Petow. who has upgraded many times. for the crew's emphasis on safety. "Running the class aboard the Lifeboat drills and other safety BOAT . STATION N(X! ships is a convenience to the exercises are conducted each members, but I respect the fact week and involve everyone that they work hard and they also aboard, including all passengers. "I always tell our members, it put a lot into the lifeboat course." The series of two-week classes doesn't matter what department covered shipboard safety, aban­ you work in, you've got to know don-ship techniques, deep-water the emergency duties," said Barry, survival, raft drills, signal train­ who also taught lifeboat and safety ing, lifeboat and davit drills, writ­ training aboard the cmise ships in ten quizzes and more. The 1992. "For Seafarers, the emphasis courses culminated with the is always on safety." Completing the lifeboat course are (from left, first row) Mike Goldman, RedBorja, Abe Alvarez, (standing). Coast Guard Chief Mona Dubinka, Wes Smith, Omer Almakuani, Mike Delacruz, Annthony Dragon, Eddie Hollister, Nassar Alomari, Coast Guard Chief Collins and Stephen Barry (instructor). Following a drill, Eric Gray helps Marjorie Harris (left) and James secure one of the boats. Spittle release the grips. — Eaming their U.S. Coast Guard-certified lifeboat tickets are (from left, front row) Charles Shippley, Salehall ' Kf'-; ^ I �feais- V '-l SEPTEMBER 1994 SEAFARERSLOG 9 ' ' ' "-'•*.: • ' : Befr^eratiott CalHIcalioii Courses Slated for Both Coasts this Month m The Paul Hall Center's Point. In July, instructors began a refrigeration technician certifica­ lengthy schedule of offering the tion course is scheduled to be of­ course at SIU halls throughout the fered to Seafarers this month at U.S. and in Puerto Rico. the SIU halls in Norfolk, Va. and Wilmington, Calif., as well as at Course's Content the center's Lundeberg School in The first day of the class lasts Piney Point, Md. from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. During Passing the two-day course, this time, students will go over the which is approved by the En­ certification process, refrigerants vironmental Protection Agency and compressor lubricating oils, (EPA), will result in Seafarers ob­ refrigerant handling safety proce­ taining EPA certification that is dures, refrigerants' impact on the required for anyone involved in environment, theories of the repair and servicing of refrigeration, pressure-tempera­ refrigeration equipment and air ture relationships and related conditioning systems. The EPA laws and regulations. regulation requiring such certifica­ The second day begins at 8 a.m. tion goes into effect November 14. and lasts until 2 p.m. Among the Lundeberg School instructors topics covered are refrigeration ser­ put together the Refrigeration vicing, handling small appliances, technician certification course— working with high- and low-pres­ which also is available as part of sure equipment, and conversion of all engine department upgrading equipment using chlorofluorocarclasses—in order to prepare bon (CFG)-based refrigerants. Testing is conducted by the in­ Seafarers for the EPA exam given at the end of the course. The first structor following the second day class took place in June at Piney of class, from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. 1994 REFRIGERATION TECHNICIAN COURSE SCHEDULE DAY Wed.-Thu. Tue.-Wed. Thu.-Fri. Tue.-Wed. Thu.-Fri. Mon.-Tue. Wed.-Thu. Tue.-Wed. Thu.-Fii. Wed.-Thu. Fri.-Sat. Tue.-Wed. Thu.-Fri. Wed.-Thu. Fri.-Sal. Tue.-Wed. Thu.-Fri. Tue.-Wed. DATE Sept. 7-8 Sept. 13-14 Sept. 15-16 Sept. 27-28 Sept. 29-30 Oct. 3-4 Oct. 5-6 Oct. 11-12 Oct. 13-14 Oct. 19-20 Oct. 21-22 Nov. 8-9 Nov. 10-11 Nov. 16-17 Nov. 18-19 Nov. 29-30 Dec. 1-2 Dec. 6-7 LOCATION Piney Point, Md. Norfolk, Va. Norfolk, Va. Wilmington, Calif. Wilmington, Calif. San Francisco San Francisco Seattle Seattle Honolulu Honolulu Port Everglades, Fla. Port Everglades, Fla. San Juan, P.R. San Juan, P.R. Algonac, Mich. Duluth, Minn. St. Louis The exam is divided into four parts," and there are corresponding certification types. The first 25 questions are basic and general. The secohd set of 25 covers small appliances. Passing the first two sections leads to Type I certifica­ tion. The third group of 25 ques­ tions refers to high-pressure After November 14, Seafarers holding EPA refrigeration technician refrigerants. Passing this part, certification will have priority for certain shipboard jobs. Above, Seafarers along with the basic section, leads in Mobile, Ala. prepare for the exam that leads to certification. to Type II certification. Low-pressure refrigerants is the topic in the final 25 questions. Students who pass this section and the core questions will earn Type III certification. Passing all four parts leads to According to regulations when throwing in for a shipboard Universal certification. stemming from the Clean Air Act job which includes duties of han­ Universal Encouraged Amendments of 1990, anyone dling refrigerants, members will Most Seafarers who handle who handles refrigerants must be have to show whether they pos­ refrigerants will need at least certified to do so by the U.S. sess such certification (indicated Type I and Type II certifications, government by November 14. by an EPA-approved card issued since galley equipment is covered SIU members should note that, through the Lundeberg School). under Type I, and ships' stores according to a recent action by the Seafarers who are on a ship systems are covered under Type Seafarers Appeals Board (SAB), during the November 14 deadline II. The SIU encourages all after November 14, members are asked by the SIU to obtain QMEDs to test for Universal cer­ who are certified refrigeration tech­ certification as soon as possible tification. nicians will be given priority within after they sign off the vessel. The Seafarers who work aboard their respective seniority classes for Lundeberg School will offer its cruise ships also should seek all QhffiD, electrician, refriger­ refrigeration technician certifica­ Universal certification, since pas­ ation and junior engineer jobs. tion course at two SIU halls in senger vessels often use lowFor Seafarers involved in the December, and the school also pressure refrigerants. repair and servicing of refrigera­ periodically will host the two-day There is no limit to the number tion equipment and/or air con­ class at the Paul Hall Center in of times someone may take the ditioning systems, the new Piney Point, Md. exam, so different certifications government regulations mean The recent action of the SAB may be earned at different times. diey must pass an Environmental (no. 374) assures that companies Results will be mailed to Protection Agency (EPA)-ap- which are signatories to a collective Seafarers no more than a month proved refrigeration technician bargaining agreement with the SIU after they take the exam. course by the deadline. will be in compliance with the new Those who pass one or more Proof of holding the certifica­ EPA regulations. Violations of the sections of the test will receive a tion will not be mandatory when regulations addressing refrigera­ certification card (which has no a Seafarer registers for employ­ tion technician certification can expiration) and a certificate. ment at a union hall. However, range as high as $25,C)(X). EPA-CerUfieil Seafarers Have Shipping Priority Sestarers Say Preparation is Key to Passing EPA Exam the Houston hall had begun.) Like those who took the course earlier in the summer, the SIU members who attended the classes last month reported that a great deal of information is covered. They echoed instructors' recommendations that students prepare for the course by purchasing and study­ ing the book "Refrigerants and the Environment," which is avail­ able through the Paul Hall Center and at SIU halls. Additionally, while the EPA has found that the Lundeberg School's course has the highest pass rate among the many refrigeration technician certifica­ tion classes available. Seafarers Brushing up on the latest information about refrigerants are (from left) stated that the four-part test is dif­ tugboat engineers Spike Miller, Stan Mercer and Willie Petway, at the ficult. (The school's pass rate is Jacksonville SIU hall. 85 percent, compared to the na­ not only to prepare for the class, well on the test," concluded tional average of 50 percent.) but also to keep it for future refer­ Cochrane. "It's a lot to grasp," said ence. Commends Union "With a two-day course, it's Electrician Irwin Rousseau, 47, Electrician Gerald Payne said who took the class in New Or­ almost impossible to learn and leans. "The instructor (Eric remember everything. But I'll be he appreciated the fact that the Malzkuhn) is outstanding, but be­ able to go back through the book course was available at the Jack­ cause there's so much informa­ later, anytime I have a question or sonville hall, which is within tion to absorb, I think anybody I'm not sure about something," driving distance of his home. He who's taking the course must said Cochrane, who took the class also praised the instructors for compiling such a thorough class. have the book in advance. The in Mobile. He also gave high marks to "I thiric these on-site classes book answers a lot of questions ahead of time, and there are the free workbook put together are a great thing for the union, and sample quizzes after each chap­ by Lundeberg School instruc­ the class itself is very comprehen­ tors. The workbook is part of the sive," stated Payne, who earned ter. That helped me." course material; it is distributed Universal certification. "The sub­ Larry Cochrane, who also at the start of the class, and ject was well-covered, and I real­ sails as an electrician, pointed out Seafarers may keep it. "If you ly got into the book. I bought it a that although "Refrigerants and study in advance, pay attention couple of weeks before the class the Environment" will be avail­ to the instructor during the day and I think it will help me in the QMED Miguel Rivera uses the able to all students during the and then review your reading field. Without it, I wouldn't have workbook to prepare for the EPA two-day course, obtaining the material at night, you can do had a chance (of passing the book in advance allows a Seafarer test in Jacksonville. Hundreds of Seafarers have taken the Paul Hall Center's refrigeration technician certifica­ tion course since the center's Lundeberg School of Seamanship began offering the two-day class in late June. Available both at the school and at SIU halls throughout the U.S. and in Puerto Rico, the course is designed to prepare Seafarers to take the Environ­ mental Protection Agency (EPA) exam for refrigeration tech­ nicians. The test is given to SIU members immediately after the second day of the course. Last month, the class was con­ ducted at the SIU halls in Jack­ sonville, Fla.; Mobile, Ala.; and New Orleans. (At press time, the first of two courses scheduled for exam)." The Mobile class included at least one student who is familiar to Seafarers who sail from that port. SIU Port Agent Dave Carter signed up for the course and earned Universal certification. "It was a chance to learn, plus it will help me communicate with refrigeration guys when they come to the hall to talk about their jobs," said Carter, who last sailed as a towboat operator and tankerman. He indicated that preparation was the key to passing the exam. "The $25 it cost me for the textbook was well-spent. I got $1,000 worth of knowledge from it." Seafarers who want to buy the book should indicate this to the port agent whom they contact when signing up for the class. They should then send a check for $25, made payable to the "Paul Hall Center," to: EPA Refrigera­ tion Tech. Course, Paul Hall Cen­ ter for Maritime Training and Education, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, Md. 20674, Attn: J.C. Wiegman. The book will be sent by first class mail. (Be sure to indicate an address where the book should be sent.) The Lundeberg School also is trying to make the book available for purchase directly from the ports where the courses are scheduled. Check vvith the in­ dividual port agents to find out if the book is available in advance at a particular hall. 'J' .•? .-rS.' • ••iT.V ^'1 • 'l • .V:V- •is:M �.. t»•« -.-xiii.^'' '.-»i^f^>.• -'^•.Viv,..:;!;;i.'v: -vdi/''-.-—,-is r 10 SEFTEMBER1994 SEAFAMERSLOG Seafarers Marah in Support of Nigerian UnhNiisIs AFL-CIO Rally Calls for Democracy, Release of Jailed President .-> SiU members joined with other trade unionists from America and . ^j^eria last month in a show ox unity for striking Nigerian oil workers. Waving signs, marching and chanting in unison in fiont of the Nigerian embassy in Washington, the demonstrators were protesting the wrongfu deposing of Nigerian oil union officials by the Nigerian military junta and the jailing of the man who lawfully was elected by Nigerian citizens to lead the na­ tion. Nigeria is the most densely 1. •; V populated country in Africa. Ii achieved independence in 19^ but has been subject to military rule for most of the past 34 years On June 12, 1993, Nigerians voted for a return to civilian rule by electing Moshood Abiola. But the military declared the election results nuU and void, and kepi their own people in power. They banned independent media and most democratic in­ stitutions and eventually arrested Abiola and charged him with treason. the engine department. "I though it was a good demonstration and I was proud to be here." Fermin Morin, who also sails in the engine department, said he believes "we got our point across today. We let the current govemment know that Nigerians anc Americans alike won't put up With how they're running things. Upgrader Jim Gibson notec that the SIU was well-represented at the demonstration, which spilled over onto tfie sidewalk across the street from the embassy. "It shows EffMtive Strike that the SIU cares atout fellow Since August 2, members of workers, not just in tiWs country but Nigeria's two major oil unions aU over the world." Meanwhile, for fellow (NUPENG and PENGASSAN) have been on strike, along with upgrader Jorge Bonelli, the rally Seafarers join fellow trade unionists and representatives from the the other 39 affiliate unions of the was a chance not only to support Nigerian Labour Congress at a rally August 25 outside the Nigerian NLC. They are withholding their Nigerian trade unionists, but also embassy in Washington. They were protesting actions by the military work to protest the aforemen­ to "help build on my loyalty to the government of Nigeria. tioned firings and jailings by the labor movement, I feel this was a rules set by the military themsel­ military, along with the failure to step forward in my union educa­ fails to comply. ves was ... criminal." Nigerian advocates for tion, and I was glad to be here." recognize the election results. democracy distributed informa­ Last month, the military Needed: A Peaceful Change tional leaflets during and after the government of General Sani After the march, the protesters rally. One flyer from the NigeriaAbacha fired the oil union leaders athered in front of the embassy, "Campaign for and ordered the workers to return where they were addressed by based Democracy" described last year's to their jobs. But the trade representatives from the NLC. elections as "widely acclaimed by unionists have defied the direc­ John Sweeney, president of both local and international ob­ tive. the Service Employees Interna­ At press time, the union offi­ tional Union, then presented a let- servers to be the freest and fairest cials reportedly had gone into er from AFL-CIO President in the history of elections in Nigeria. It was an election in [tiding and claimed that govem- jxae, Kirkland to a representative which million Nigerians ment security agencies were ]Tom the embassy. The letter, ad­ defied 14 ethnic, religious and trying to arrest them. dressed to the military govern­ eographical sentiments to exAs oil accounts for 90 percent ment, demanded the release of all jress their will, thereby setting a of the country's export earnings, )olitical prisoners and allowance new dawn in Nigeria's long the unions' strike has effectively 'or a peaceful transition to search for genuine participatory Orlando Dunalelly (holding sign) shut down much of the nation's democracy. It also warned of pos­ democracy and unity. shows his support for democracy conunerce, both internal and ex­ sible economic sanctions against "The subsequent annulment of in Nigeria. Also demonstrating is ternal. Nigeria if the cunent government heelections conducted uiider John Kannuck (right). SIU Shows Support Monroe Monseur hopes the rally will pressure Nigeria's military government into honoring the resuits of last year's democratic eiection in that nation. Seafarers said they were proud to back the oil workers and were hopeful that the rally would cause Nigeria's military government to resize that their actions will not be tolerated. "The military needs to back off and let Abiola assume power and run a democracy," said Mon­ roe Monseur, an eight-year member of the SIU who saUs in SUPPORTS AFL-CIO Opposes Mitchell Bill; Health Care Referm In Jeopardy As the Senate recessed last month without passing a health care reform bill, leading to widespread speculation that comrrehensive reform will not hap)en this year, the AFL-CIO said hat postponing congressional acion is preferable to hurriedly rassing a flawed plan such as the one sponsored by Senate Majority Leader George Mitchell D-Maine) or the one proposed by the so-called "mainstream coali­ tion" of senators. The federation of American trade unions, of which the SIU is an affiliate, reinforced its support of the main principles in the bill sponsored by House Majority ^eader Richard Gephardt (DVfo.) and also highlighted the many problems contained in the other proposals. Running OutofTlme Congress will be back in ses­ sion on September 12. But with incumbents anxious to campaign For November elections, and con­ sidering both the complexity of the health care debate and the lack of consensus among lawmakers on any particular plan, it app<^ very doubtful that sweeping changes will be enacted before this session ends. At a news conference last month, AFL-CIO President Lane drkland stated that the federa­ tion backs the components in Gephardt's bill which call for From left, Craig Raid, Scott Abramsonand Brian Hulstrom call for the comprehensive, irrevocable coverage for all U.S. citizens release of political prisoners in Nigeria. (universal coverage), mainly financed via a requirement that all employers pay at least 80 percent of the health care premiums of their employees (Imown as an employer mandate). The House bill also includes provisions for cost containment. "It is a very strong, com­ prehensive proposal that would give working people the health care reforms they've sought for so long," Kirkland said. Flawed Plan By contrast, the Mitchell plan would not achieve universal coverage, the AFL-CIO noted. In its current form, the bill calls for a conditional, delayed employer mandate that exempts many busi­ nesses and covers only half of employees' premium costs. It also would tax health benefits whose premiums exceed a certain rate of increase, amount­ ing to a double penalty against workers who have sacrificed wage increases to maintain com­ prehensive medical coverage. Kirkland noted that, under the Mitchell plan, businesses that do not provide health benefits "would be free to continue off­ loading the cost of their employees' health care onto the backs of those plans and employers that do provide health care." The federation had even shar­ per criticism of the alternative plan put forth by the group of Republican and Democratic senators that call themselves the "mainstream" group, citing the following (and other) problems: • It would not expand health care coverage. • It does not include effective cost containment mechanisms. • By placing a tax cap on employer deductibility, it would provide incentive for employers not to offer health benefits for their workers. • It would allow for the con­ tinuance of cost shifting, whereby insured citizens are saddled with the cost of not only their own medical care, but also that of the uninsured (such as emergency room visits). • It would tax benefits that ex­ ceed a certain standard. "The limit on employer deduc­ tibility and the taxation of costsharing supplemental plans amount to a huge new tax on middle-income Americans," Kirkland said. "The 'mainstream' plan does nothing—no universal coverage, no employer mandate, no cost containment." The AFL-CIO has vowed to continue fighting for the prin­ cipals it supports in the health care debate, for as long as it takes to get comprehensive reform enacted. If and when each body passes a bill, a House/Senate conference committee then will forge a final version which is return^ to each chamber for a vote. J �• SEPIEMSfff rSM The U.S. merchant marine was a major carrier of ammo,chow, fuel and replacements to the U.S. armed forces during World War II. Al­ though we lost well over 200 ships, and our casualty rate was exceeded only by that of the Marine Corps, there were always plenty of volun­ teers in every rank and rating to man the ships. It took many trips by our merchant ships to supply the troops; the following is the story of just one of them. Before this voyage, I heard that the USS Houston, my assignment as a Marine for two years and 12 days, had been sunk with all hands. Later, the SS Alcoa Pathfinder, which I had sailed on in April 1942, was sunk five days after I got off her. In July, the SS Pan Florida came under attack while I was aboard. I was on the operating plat­ form in the engineroom and couldn't see what was gong on. The deck plates kept bouncing up about two inches from the concussion as the depth charges exploded nearby. In October, I sailed for the South Pacific on the SS Del Brasil. Guadal­ canal had been invaded by the 1st Marine Division on August 8. SEAFARBtSLOe With the SIU at Guadalcanal: A War Diary by James M. Smith Pensioner James M. Smith joined the SIU in Baltimore in August 1939right out of the Marine Corps as a corporal and as an expert of 50caliber machine guns. The depression was still on, however, and there was little work for machine gunners, so it was an easy jump from corporal to wiper on the Bull Lines' SS Maria which operated on the East Coast between New York and Puerto Rico. The pay was $55 per month. In September of that year, the Germans were attacking their neighbors, and the buildup for WWII was under way. Until that time, the only ships that carried electricians were passenger ships, but now the first of the "C" type ships had come on line. As a Marine, Smith had taken a course in basic electricity and so was well situated to take advantage of the opportunity to take the U.S. Commerce Department exam (there was no Coast Guard in those days) for an electrician's endorsenient. Brother Smith continued to sail during WWII, the Korean conflict and the early part of the Vietnam war and upgraded at the union's school in Brooklyn to third assistant engineer. During part of his seafaring years, he kept a journal. What follows is Part I of his narrative from aboard the SS Del Brasil. The remaining part of Brother Smith's diary will appear in a future issue of the LOG. 11 ambulance/supply planes came in carrying wounded Marines. They were all young fellows, about 18 to 20 years old, except for one red­ headed sergeant who said how un­ lucky he was to get hit just when he was going good. November 29. Weighed anchor, moved the ship back around the island to the main supp­ ly base and tied up alongside the SS Lipscolm Lykes. We have some bombs and other cargo for Cactus on board and also some for a Marine squadron at White Poppy, so we could go either way. ("Cac­ tus" is the c^e word for Guadal­ canal and "White Poppy" is Noumea. This base at Espiritu Santo is "Button.") There is some scuttlebutt that we are going on up to Cactus, which I hope is true. There hasn't been much action around this area except for a few rounds from a Jap submarine— harassing fire only. There have been several air warnings but noth­ ing has gotten through so far. The Jap bases are up north at Bougain­ ville Island in the Northern Solomons. Sometimes a squadron of Marine aircraft will leave here, stop at Cactus overnight, then hit their targets early the next morning and be back here in time for chow. December 1. We are transfer­ ring all pur White Poppy cargo to the Lykes ship and loading all Cac­ tus cargo. There is a rumor that we may make a few shuttle runs be­ tween here and Cactus as we are the most heavily armed merchant ship in the area. What we lack in fire control equipment, our gun crews make up for in enthusiasm. officer, Lt. (jg) Kraft, USNR, reminds me of the boxcars full of same general plan as the fighter sounded General Quarters and all five-gallon cans of paint I had to strip, only larger. From here the hands manned their battle stations. unload at P.I. when I was a boot. Marines make daily attacks on the As chief electrician, my station is November 13. Off duty today, enemy to the north. The Marine on the main generator platform in so I went ashore to visit the Marines sergeant driving the jeep didn't the engineroom, so I never know at the fighter strip. Unlike the believe in wasting any time, so it what's going on topside. This time, aircraft in the States, these are not was a jarring, neck-spraining ride Guadalcanal, 1942 nothing came of the contact, and as spic and span and shiny. The crews for about five miles through the October 16. SS Del Brasil, we turning 106 RPM, we were keep them in perfect condition, coconut palm groves. We bounced Delta Line^combinatioh pas­ soonare of range. out mechanically, but they're streaked without warning onto the bomber senger and cargo. Departed San with dirt and oil, and there are pow­ strip, right into the wake of a Diego 1300 for Noumea, New der bums around the muzzles of the squadron of B-17s just taking off. Caledonia. The convoy includes guns. Some of them have little About five minutes later, I got the freighters, a couple of tankers. Rising Sun flags painted under the dust out of my eyes. I looked several troop ships and APA's, a around at the rows of bombers, pilot's cockpit. light cruiser and some destroyers. As I was standing there talking fighter aircraft and the mile-long The Del Brasil is transporting per­ to the ground crew, a group of pilots metal strip with its operations tower sonnel from a Marine air group alongside. I spent the afternoon while combat gear, ammo and food Last night, the mate on watch walked out. They climbed into their talking to the officers and men, and fill pur holds to the top. We have 16 called me to check out an electrical planes and taxied slowly among the listening to their remarks about torpedoes lashed on deck amid­ circuit on the bridge. I went by the coconut trees to the strip. There, their combat experience^ with as ships. For armament, the ship car­ port AA gun as the watch was some Marines installed two bombs much nonchalance as I could ries a 5-inch 38 aft, four 3-inch relieved. I overheard the man going under the wings, one on each side, muster. I still feel like a Marine, and anti-aircraft guns and four 50- off duty tell his relief to "keep a then the whole squadron took off I envy them. caliber machine guns. sharp lookout for aircraft, surface with a roar. Flashing out over our ship, they banked and headed north. The convoy commodore signals craft and Mister Kraft." An hour and 40 minutes later, they to the rest of the convoy with an November 10. Arrived came in, clambered nonchalantly December 2. Stayed in bed all incessant blowing of the ship's Espiritu Santo 1600. A few days out of the ships and strolled over to day with an attack of malaria— steam whistle. This brings forth before our arrival, the SS President the mess tent for chow. The bombs been taking atabrine 'til my ears some merriment and not a few Coolidge ran into one of our own were gone. are ringing. Read in the "DePp caustic remarks. Each ship has to mines and sank. There were only Water Dispatch," our radio The sandflies over on the island repeat the signal on their own five men lost, but the troops lost all newssheet, that some of the crew of whistle. This goes on at all hours, their combat equipment. Another are ferocious and land on you in It seems the closer you get to the Xhe Alcoa Pathfinder made it to swarms. After a few hours you actual fighting, the fewer Stateside day after day and night after night. victory for the Japs. don't notice them so much—you regulations are enforced. I wanted shore at Lauren90 Marques after Imagine the sight of a large number November 11. Armistice Day. of ships in mid-ocean, tooting away Today we moved the ship around can get used to anything, I guess. to see inside a bomber under actual being sunk by a German sub. The for all they're worth, as though they the island and anchored off the There is plenty of fresh water near wartime conditions, and the crew old man. Captain Dunke, may have are in a traffic jam in San Francisco fighter strip. The base is scattered the base but, although water is ra­ chief said, "Go ahead." I crawled been a good seaman, but he never said a pleasant word to anyone. On tioned on the ship, we haven't any Bay. in the surrounding coconut way of getting it out here since through the hatch on a B-24. There the other hand. Chief Engineer of „ .u.. groves—dispersal is the order of we're anchored in the channel isn t a .bit ofv wastedJspace u m oneare Hardwickwasoneorthermestmen those bombers and, brother, the day: here a tent, there an anti­ I ever sailed with. I worider why it they built to fight! In metal racks on is aircraft battery, over there a few that you very seldom find a good both sides, fore and aft, are 50- skipper dozen cases of ammo, beyond that and a good chief engineer caliber machine gun ammo, and on the same ship. an aircraft. There is good reason for there's a gun mount beside each that. Espiritu Santo is an island Plexiglass blister with a machine about 40 miles wide and 120 miles gun lying beside it. There is a long in the northern part of the New tommy gun in a rack over the hatch The Marines have exercise Hebrides group. c. ^ It is now our forperiods on deck every day, and basersomething less than 400 about a mile from the l^ach. Still, to the tail-gunner's position. There during the past few days they have miles from Guadalcanal, or about we have had some fine times swim­ are also bomb raclb, instruments ming in a deep, fresh-water pool and oxygen supply. Up forward is been having small arms practice two hours by bomber. an array of machine guns in the near the end of the airstrip. with their '03 rifles, pistols and the new Rising submachine gun. I I have seen only half a dozen nose. checked one over a couple of days December 4. Over at the natives. Most of them moved back ago, but as an old Ist-squad BAR bomber strip yesterday afternoon, a into the fastness of the jungleman, I don't think much of it. P-40 came in and cracked up on the covered mountains upon the arrival runway. It was a total loss, l^en last of our fighting forces. The few who November 3. Arrive Noumea night a DC-3 was taking off for have stayed behind keep to them­ 1800. There are a large number of Cactus with a load of grenades and selves and live in thatch-roofed ships here, including a freighter November 12. Today we small arms ammo when he clipped huts. They are large people, physi­ with a hole in its No. 4 hold that began discharging cargo onto a gasoline truck. The aircraft crew This gang is sure a bunch of women stand about blew out the hull ,plates on both diesel-driven barges, the Marines cally, even the.... n ui u sides. It looks like you could row a joj^g |},e work of stevedores and six feet tall, and they re all black as souvenir hunters. I even saw one and the truck driver all got out un­ boat completely through the ship, joing it well (just like they always coal. From what I hear, the ones guy with a Jap bicycle. I haven't hurt and ran like hell as the whole November 7. 1730 weighed doj/There are some Navy construe- living in the mountains m"e not at ml been able to get any of the Jap oc­ mess was beginning to bum. They money floating around. had just gotten clear when the anchor and got under way for tion battalion men here, but they averse to chopping off a person's cupation Liquor is at a premium down here grenades started exploding. What head for a souvenir. Well, I didn't Espiritu Santo at 0930. We have an have more work than they can as these boys haven't had anything fireworks! lose anything back in "them thar aircraft carrier and two destroyers handle and don't seem to be very to drink for months. For a quart of hills"—^the Japs are enough for me well organized yet. Though we are as escort. scotch, you can get a Jap pistol or for now. November 9. The aircraft car­ happy to see the cargo moving, as an officer's sword. Unfortunately, The remaining part of Brother November 18. Went ashore ner suQueniv came eaiiic auuui ^ . . . rier suddenly about ..a.^ hard .w., left. an ex-Marine, it bothers me to see I'm fresh out. Smith's diary will appear in a fu­ offour^rtK an^ combat-trained Marines doing andhitchedandemaj^pdownto ture issue of the Seafarers LOG. While I was there, some DC-3 turned to protect her. Our gunnery longshoremen's work. Kind of the bomber strip. It is built on the !? I ~W^' ' Ml �12 SEFTEMOER1994 SEAFARERS LOG Twenty-four hours a day, boatmen aboard Orgulf tugboats know they must be ready to answer Ae call of duty. The crewmembers who work on the Twin Cities and John D. Geary keep a vigilant watch for waterway obstructions while checking on the lines that connect barges loaded with mulch, coal, grain and other dry cargo during voyages along the Mississippi River and its tributaries. "A problem can happen at any time," notes Lead Deckhand Matthew Diehl of the Geary. "That's why it's important for the mt" • crew to stay alert and discover a situation Completing paperwork Lead Deckhand Zolly Keeping an eye on the Deckhand Vanceno Rush Catching a nignt lunch before it becomes a problem." ZoHy Person, lead deckhand aboard the is rw;nC/ftesCookMon- Person keeps safety on Tw/nC/fesdiesel is Chief arrives for a meeting aboard the Geary is the Twin Citiesa priority. Engineer Alan Hornick. aboard the Twin Cities. Utilityman Troy Ingram. Twin Cities, agrees. "The river is always zell Niles. changing. Day or night, we have to be ready to handle anything." The concem for safety does not lessen when the tugs and their barges enter the company's staging area in Moore's Landing, Mo. The smaller boats that operate only on the upper half of the Mississippi release their bar­ ges and tie up with a new set to sail toward Minneapolis and St. Paul, Minn, as well as the Ohio and Illinois rivers. Along these water­ ways, Orgulf tugs can push up to 15 barges. The larger tugs take over the chores on the lower half of the Mississippi—directing barges to and from Memphis, Tenn., Baton Rouge, La. and New Orleans. Because the lower river channel is wider, boats are able to operate with as many as 35 barges. The crews aboard the Twin Cities and John D. Geary inspect and secure all loads and lines before departing the staging area. Because of scheduling demands, these pro­ cedures can take place at any time. "We're just as safety conscious at night Ready to inspect lines on the Utilityman Lloyd Shelton sear- Lead Deckhand Matthew Diehl Overseeing night deck operaduring inspections as we are during Geary is Deckhand Charles ches for problems on the TVv/n hasthe John D. Gearyready to tionsonthe rw/nC/f/esisMate daylight," Person adds. Amos. Cities deck. shove off. Dave Owens Maintenance Helps Keep Reiss Sailing After 50 Years Deckhand Joe Schmanski greases a pulley aboard the self-unloader. Maintaining tfie dishwashing equipment is the job of Porter Musleh Mohsin. Meticulous care and "sweet water" have helped keep the Richard Reiss sailing on the Great Lakes for 50 years. Even between jobs of loading or unloading rock, salt and ore. Seafarers aboard the Reiss have no time to slow down as they maintain the laker's equipment. Deck department members can be found all over the Erie Sand Steam­ ship Company vessel, lubricating pul­ leys, testing safety gear and inspecting lines—as well as die usual chipping and painting. Procedures in the engineroom aire no different. QMEDs and wipers con­ stantly monitor the ship's diesel en­ gine and conveyor belt to make sure operations will not be slowed by a mechanical problem. Besides preparing meals for the en­ tire crew, the steward department also has its share of duties in the galley. Cookware, utensils, counters and ap­ pliances must be kept spotless so there will be no hitch when it comes time to cook. During the Great Lakes sailing season, the Reiss can be found in any number of ports delivering or picking up cargo. The self-unloader is designed to be able to dock at either established terminals or inlets with only concrete bollards and bits on site for tying up. The vessel began sailing as a bulker on the Lakes in 1943 and was con­ verted into a self-unloader in 1964. A little lubricant applied by AB/Deckwatch Kevin Bleau keeps the Reiss operating smoothly. Deckhand Roger Bachik watches. Reporting for duty Second Cook Paul Deckhand Roger Standing by to help is Patrolman Ken Horner looks for material reaboard ship is AB Paton takes a menu Bachik assists with Deckhand Leonard quested by Gateman David Hubbard during Gregory (Joe) Viiek. order. chores. Tomas. shipboard meeting. �SEAFARERS LOG SEPTEMBER 1994 Soon Steward/Baker Howard Williams will make this 8Vfe pound fish a main course. ' A&. 13 V ;:ik Fruit salad and cake are on the holiday menu. Fresh Fish Makes Patriot Holiday At Sea Special Preparing the chilled fruit bar is Steward/Baker Howard Williams. Being thousands of miles away from home and off the coast of another continent could not stop the crew of the MV Patriot from holding an Independence Day celebration at sea. The Vulcan Carriers tanker was en route to Antofagasta, Chile when July 4th hit the calen­ dar. The galley gang of Steward/Baker Howard biSfr If. an- Paine brtnps soup from me oh», box ,abov« in «^e, 9^"celebration. crewmembers. Williams, in passing the accompanying photographs to the Seafarers LOG, related that fishing was particularly good off the vessel on July 2. That day, several of the crew caught a mahi-mahi family fish known as dorado. The steward department took over from there, preparing the white fish as the main course along with salads, desserts and other items for the celebration. •'We always try to make holidays special when C^ietvina of the white fish is prepared uneservmgui mewillloiioiiiOH'^K"'"" bv the Pat/fof oallev oano. •--•-•.-i'.'vV • •• •v. we are at sea, away from families_and friends," Qrewmembers line up for the holiday fare. From left are GSU Julian "o^ed Williams. "Having the fresh fish made this ^^jendoza, AB Carlos Spina, Steward/Baker Howard Williams, Bosun Ralph TII1« i. Hon r^awlnr year's T7™,rfV. Fourth of July even tv-ttpr" better Gibbs, Chief Cook Daniel Payne and AD AB Dan Gaylor. •• ' .pM ' M R««..n I^evin McHoul relaxes after enjoying the KeciS As OMU Bob Ivanauskas prepares to eat, others make their way through the serving line. PosInQ on the G/oba/Mariner's deck are (from left) QMU Bob Ivanauskas, SA T.W. White, SA William Pettaway and OS Steve Keville. " "" ' i |v - I -t. Proud of their work for the celebration are SAs Jimmy Sims (left) and William Pettaway. •''•v7'- Cook/Baker Cheryl Neff. SlU hawsepiper John Logari, 3rd There was plenty of food for the families and friends of the Global Mariner crew. asst. engineer, enjoys the picnic. Families and friends of Seafarers who work aboard the Global Mariner got to see firsthand what life is like aboard that vessel while it was tied up in Baltimore over the Independence Day holiday. Crewmembers had the deck of the Transoceanic Cable Ship vessel decorated in red, white and blue as the company held an open house to allow crewmembers to show off where they work. Nearly one hundred people took advantage of the hospitality. The galley gang of Chief Steward Brian Gross met the challenge. "It was a wonderful celebration," noted Baltimore Port Agent Sal Aquia, who was invited and provided the Seafarers LOG with the photos for this story. "There were families and children all over and plenty of good food, thanks to our crew." Gross gave plenty of credit for the way the day turned out to the steward department. Working together to make sure everything proceeded without a hitch were Chief Cook Kevin Marchand, Cook/Baker Cheryl Neff and Steward Assistants T.W. White, Jimmy Sims and William Pettaway. Among the wide variety of entrees offered by the galley gang were steaks, ribs and chicken as well as vegetable and fruit salad bars. To entice those with a sweet tooth, the crew baked cookies, cakes, pies and other treats, For anyone Bringing food from the freezer to the still able to move after eating, tours of the galley are Chief Cook Kevin Marchand (left) and SA T.W. White. cable ship were available. '-y �'. ' ;V'' •: .;r- "1 (•'. SEPTEMBER 1994 14 SEAFARERS LOG '. ..'•t'N..--' '•'•J'-' '• •'.' '.^''.T '' V SEPTEMBER 1994 SEAFJUIEKSLOG IS O'Brien Heads for Home %' I • • " 'llf'• Living Memorial to WWII Mariners Triumphantly Returns from Normandy / / •' " ; ass Sisfi' wa iiSliiilSiiM < gs ;;««!!• #E' ' . v.>7 . '' *a :J 12 a a s' lESKfjisWitei*®? «*««• A - I A" ii ' If V f C a 'Mt • • See page 16 for additional coverage of the Jeremiah O'Brien (!i:-,;r" ffi/' O'Brien Crew Recounts Commemorative Voyage as^Trip of a Lifetime' •M > ' 1 Above: The Jeremiah O'Brien was open to the public during a recent four-day stop in Baltimore. The vessel . is scheduled to return to its home port of San Francisco in late September or early October ".V -'V resh from a tour of Europe in which it repre­ sented the American merchant marine's role in D-Day, which happened 50 years ago on June 6 of this year, the World War Il-era Liberty ship Jeremiah O'Brien last month visited several East Coast ports while en route to its home berth in San Francisco. Dignitaries and other visitors turned out in Portland, Maine; Baltimore; and Jacksonville, Fla. for ceremonies honoring the O'Brien's crewmembers and recognizing the overall contribution of the U.S. merchant marine in World War II. Congresswoman Helen Bentley (D-Md.), a longtime advocate of the U.S.-flag merchant fleet, sponsored legislation which helped enable the O'­ Brien to go to France and England for the massive D-Day ceremonies earlier this summer. Last month in Baltimore, standing next to the 51-year-old vessel, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, Bentley reflected on the consistent showing of the American merchant marine. F I• It Many Lives Lost f I - t\ ;' y'-fii •••••; ,• • " V' I "Thousands gave their lives in World War II, and thousands more served from the beginning of the war to the end," she stated to a crowd of about 200, as well as to the O 'Brien crew and dozens of active and retired SIU members who were on hand for the ceremony. "The war could not have been won without them." Appreciation for the U.S. merchant marine's vital role in past efforts, as well as recognition of the critical need to maintain a strong American-flag fleet now and in the future, also were echoed by other speakers in Baltimore, including Deputy Maritime Administrator Joan Yim and Rear Admiral Thomas Patterson (U.S. Maritime Service, Ret.). They em­ phasized that history repeatedly has revealed the country's need for a strong shipping capability, not only in times of battle but also during peacetime. The value of a strong merchant fleet perhaps never was more evident than on June 6, 1944, when the Allies launched the largest amphibious military operation in histo^ and began to reclaim France from Nazi occupation. Thousands of U.S. merchant ships delivered troops and materiel on D-Day and in the crucial supply line that followed until the German surrender in May 1945. Turning Point Although costly and difficult, the invasion of France (also known as Operation Overlord) proved to be the turning point in the war. Heavy casualties were sustained by American, Canadian and British forces on D-Day and during the fierce battles which lasted for 11 months afterward. But the sacrifices paid off when Hitler's Nazi forces surrendered, which in turn allowed the Allies to aim their full force on the war in the Pacific. The O'Brien was at Normandy on D-Day, and thousands of active and retired merchant mariners, along with many other supporters, pulled together to ensure that the historic ship would return to France for the 50th anniversary activities. It took many years and hundreds of thousands of man-hours to fully recondition and prepare the O'­ Brien, part of the National Liberty Ship Memorial, for its recent voyage to Europe. But the efforts were rewarded, as the O'Brien became the only ocean­ going vessel to participate in both D-Day and the 50-year anniversary. Patterson, a driving force behind the O'Brien's restoration and a participant in the entire voyage, said that the journey "has exceeded our expectations." He added that he hopes the recognition the O'­ Brien received in Europe will serve both to honor the merchant marine veterans of World War 11 and to remind lawmakers in the U.S. that history "has taught us over and over how important the merchant marine is. You know, there literally were six million people lining the banks in England and France, waving American flags at us. We were cheering back at them. Alex Hochstraser will take home several souvenirs, including his first tattoo. The crew of the Jeremiah O'Brien is a mix of retired merchant mariners, many of whom sailed on merchant ships during World War 11; of younger, active seamen who signed on the Liber­ ty ship to be part of history; and one other trade unionist who became so enamored of the 51-yearold vessel, he left his desk job, acquired the proper documentation and signed on for the entire six-month voyage fi-om San Francisco to Europe and back. But regardless of a particular crewmember's background, or whether he signed on for part or all of the round trip to Normandyj the men aboard the O'Brien agree that the voyage has surpassed even their most optimistic expectations. "It has been the trip of a lifetime," said Bosun Martin Wefald, a retired Seafarer who sailed in the union's Great Lakes and deep sea divisions. "Everyone treated us like royalty in England and France, and meeting President Clinton (who boarded the vessel in Europe) was spectacular. He shook hands with every crewmember; that's been the highlight." Wefald is one of several retired SIU merflbers who have taken part in the voyage, scheduled to end sometime in October when die ship returns to its home port on the West Coast. Many retired members and a few active ones from the SlU-affiliated Sailors' Union of the Pacific (SUP) and Marine Firemen, Oilers and Watertenders (MFOW) also have comprised the crew, along with a few retirees from the Marine Cooks and Edgar Lingenfeld (left) and Gary Dow are two former SIU members who are helping bring the O'Brien back from Normandy. Stewards, which merged with the SIU in 1978. Operated under authority of the U.S. Maritime Admini|fration, the O'Brien already has fulfilled the main purpose of its trip, which was repre­ senting the U.S. merchant marine at ceremonies in Normandy on and before June 6 commemorat­ ing the 50th anniversary of D-Day. Millions of spectators viewed the immaculately kept, 441foot ship in Europe. Remarkably, of the thousands of vessels that were part of the Normandy invasion in 1944, only the O'Brien returned for the anniversary ac­ tivities, which were covered by media around the world. Enthusiastic Crew A Navy gunner during WWII, Jack Carraher signed on for the entire O'Brien voyage. Joe Milcic spent a year on Liberty ships during the war and also helped restore the O'Brien. During a stop in Baltimore last month, a num­ ber of crewmembers talked with a reporter from the Seafarers LOG about the O'Brien's travels. For Edgar Lingenfield, the ship's gray ex­ terior and tight quarters evoke sca^ memories. "1 served as a third engineer on a Liberty almost 50 years ago," recalled the former SIU member. "On my first trip, we were bombed near Guadalcanal, but luckily nothing hit us. Those were hard mis­ sions." Lingenfield, 69, has been on the O'Brien since it set sail for Normandy in April. "The trip has been very satisfying," he stated. "We were wel­ comed with open arms everywhere we went in England and in France. The people there know what we did for them. "1 think we're known more in England and France than in the United States." In contrast to Lingenfield's first trip during the 1940s, Jack Carraher pointed out that this voyage has been nothing but smooth sailing. "We've had great weather all the way, so somebody's looking after us," said the 71-year-old former member of the SUP, who sailed in the deck and engine departments. Carraher, who was a Navy gunner during World War 11, also signed on for the whole trip. "This was my last chance to sail again," he ex­ plained. "It's a great crew and I'U always remem­ ber them." Like several other crewmembers, Carraher cited the June 5 shipboard visit in Portsmouth, Engird of President and Mrs. Clinton — who were joined by AFL-CIO President Lane Kirkland and Maritime Administrator Albert Herberger — as the high point of the journey, surpass­ ing even the D-Day ceremonies. "Both the president and Mrsi. Clinton were very gracious," he said. "1 think they made a lot of friends. Lane Kirkland (who sailed with the Masters, Mates & Pilots during World War 11) was great, too." its commemorative voyage is approximately 75. 11. The retired deck department member, who Other crewmembers range in age frorp midsailed with the SUP, participated in the ship's res­ twenties to early forties, so naiura^y there is a toration project during the past dozen years, al­ variance of perspective regarding the vessel and though he only was able to join the voyage for a its many ports of call, both abroad and in the U.S. short time. Gary Dow, a former SIU member whose "But the main thing is knowing that it hap­ father and grandmother both were involved in the pened, that everyone's efforts paid off," he said. O'Brien's original construction in Portland, More than one crewmember pointed out a par­ Maine, had been working with a Portland-based ticular shipmate who was making his first voyage. group preparing for a reception for the O'Brien's Alex Hochstraser, a member of the Service crew in early August. Employees International Union, said he "heard • After the reception, he signed on for the about die Normandy trip and 1 decided to go for remainder of the trip. "I'm staying on until she it! My father is from France ... You could say 1 reaches San Francisco. Then, I may go back to went due to family history and American history." sailing permanently, who knows," said Dow, 43, As was the case with others, Hochstraser, who who saUed with the SIU for 11 years before a sailed in the engine department, seemed ex­ knee injury in 1988 forced him to come ashore. hilarated by the experience. "There's work to be Dow, who sailed primarily as a QMED, has at done, but tWs is a once-in-a-lifetime, marvelous least one thing in common with the World War 11 experience," he said. "In Europe, 1 found an aunt veterans aboard the ship; Having sufficiently whom 1 didn't know existed. I've already written recovered from the knee injury, he too answered her, and we plan to keep in touch. his nation's call in time of crisis, in this case "Years from now,1 think T11 remember all of during the Persian Gulf War. this, especially the great people 1 sailed with. "1 left a nice desk to go and pump oU," he said They're the best." with a laugh. "But we showed Ae American mer­ He also wUl remember a souvenir which he chant marine can still do the job." picked up in Gosport, England. Getting into the Few aboard the O 'Brien have a deeper ap­ spirit of the World War ll-era merchant marine, preciation for her history than Joe Milcic, who Hochstraser received his first tattoo. spent a year on Liberty ships during World War "Everybody on the ship reaUy liked it," he said. Different Perspectives The average age of the World War 11 merchant marine veterans who have crewed the O'Brien for Retired SIU Bosun Martin Wefald (far right), pictured here with other crewmembers during a pier-side ceremony in Baltimore, began his sailing career in the union's Great Lakes division. X'-nXIXV'-:' 'Sv. i"''. -x ' J-.-;.v.> ;• jJ2 .11 Iff \ is.'-:v;--•. M'. �-• iv-,. • • SffTEMBBt 1^ 16 SEAF/UIBI^ Respect from �; • -S,"'V'rS ^:^®WWW!Wisi^W!!|5^aF3®^^ SEPTEMBER 1994 SEAFARERS LOG Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea JULY 16 — AUGUST 15,1994 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups OassA Class B Class C '-#v::.' Port New York 26 Philadelphia 1 Baltimore 3 Norfolk 11 Mobile 10 New Orleans 15 Jacksonville 21 San Francisco 23 Wilmington 15 Seattle 26 Puerto Rico 8 Honolulu 3 Houston 28 St. Louis 1 Piney Point 1 Algonac 0 Totals 192 Port New York 24 Philadelphia 1 Baltimore 3 Norfolk 6 Mobile 9 New Orleans 14 Jacksonville 12 San Francisco 13 Wilniington 12 Seattle 12 Puerto Rico 4 Honolulu 5 Houston 11 St. Louis 0 Kney Point 3 Algonac 0 Totals 129 Port New York 16 Philadelphia 0 Baltimore 3 Norfolk 4 Mobile 9 New Orleans 10 Jacksonville 9 San Francisco 20 l^lmington 14 iSeattle 25 Puerto Rico 4 Honolulu 10 pouston St. Louis 0 pilM^PCM^ 2 Algonac 0 Totals 135 Port 26 10 6 10 24 15 15 19 7 23 5 15 26 2 •4 0 207 20 2 9 7 6 13 18 17 14 8 4 6 1 .14 0 146 14 0 1 10 3 9 li| 10 7 5 0 9 '• " .6' ^l4ewY®--S •0 0 86 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups QassA Class B Class C Trip Rdlefs ••REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups QassA ClassB ClassC DECK DEPARTMEl^T 29 21 2 6 56 64 8 2 3 1 0 1 13 3 2 5 0' ml':i1;:::.-, 9. 11 '• 4 9 10 2 8 22 35 12 9 11 0 0 17 28 2 13 10 3 9 36 42 7 9 •••• 27 20 344 35 10 4 /• 15 11 4 50 • 31 7 6 13 . 4 1 31 23 ••7' 3,3: 7 21 17 3 8 44 34 8 4 9 1 0 3 15 6 6 11 6 12 6 4 6 19 11 9 22 13 1 10 41 47 18 0 1 1 0 0 0 5 :3„., :.I 0 0 4 0 2 ••.'.v.'1' 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 77 178 146 26 61 373 397 104 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 15 8 0 9 44 38 1 •mm ^ 1 1 2 0 0 , 2 3 2 • 0 7 • • •• -1 0 3 7 9 0 6 3 3 0 0 15 22 13 0 9 3 1 .• 0 14 14 1 4 7 9 2 4 23 31 6 A ' ' •l:;8 8 15 13 17 28 9 • 3,,..;^:.; 11 8 m4 26 25 , 5 ..3 2 ;.v:7 • 10 ,1 -./visiakl1-4. 18 22 •. 4 2 11 6 1 ^ • 8 22 15 3 2 5 5 1 .• • 1 8 4 1 8 4 8 6 3 ; 6 11 11 3 11 13 T ' 8 23 20 5 1 0 0 2 1 3"' 0 >• 0 0 -3 ii; B'' : Im •'•O' - 20 0 , . 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 41 99 96 20 49 230 266 62 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 11 4 0 6 31 28 2 0 1 1 0 0 2 4 ^ 3 0 0 iz: • frnm i,'5 'M3 5 1 2 8 4 18 4 4 1 1 18 11 2 9 5 0 5 14 4 19 mm 10 0 11 13 10 1 9 19 2 5 66 17 7 1 9 0 23 4 19 1 1 37 12 0 3 . 16 0 2 0 1 6 0 2 2 5 6 6 3 16 13 0 9 3 4 4 10 1 5 ' 0 o' 1 0 35 ^1 ^^"i 0 0 0 108 50 6 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 2 0 , 2 0 4 0 0 3 1 3 .3 6 4 7 3 3 1 0 0 0 38 17 1 2 8 7 6 16 7 5 17 4 11 15 0 14 0 130 0 0 0 53 11 2 6 0 163 • ^ 1 '-Ssii 0 ? 4 ' 0 45 22 0 5 18 4 22 15 21 12 20 9 133 12 0 6 0 299 Philadelphia 0 0 0 Baltimore 0 3 4 Norfolk 2 15 12 Mobile 2 15 3 New Orleans 7 16 11 Jacksonville 2 '15 12 San Francisco 7 19 Wilmington 6 18 U.1', 'e Seattle 6 25 12 Puerto Rico 3 6 9 41 Honolulu 4 27 1 Houston 2 23 0 St. Louis 0 2 1 Piney Point 0 23 0 Algonac 0 1 142 Totals 49 242 Totals All 80 423 422 163 295 965 1305 510 681 Departments 505 • 'Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. •• "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. A total of 996 jobs were shipped on SlU-contracted deep sea vessels. Of the 1,088 Jobs shipped, 423 jobs or about 39 percent were taken by seniority members. The rest were filled by and seniority people. From July 16 to August 15,1994, a total of 163 trip relief jobs were shipped. Since the trip relief program began on April 1,1982, a total of21,489jobs have heen shipped. •'A >:>K October & November 1994 Membership Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, Inland Waters Piney Point Monday: October 3, November 7 New York Tuesday: October 4, November 8 Philadelphia Wednesday: October 5, November 9 Baltimore Thursday: October 6, November 10 Norfolk Thursday: October 6, November 10 Jacksonville Thursday: October 6, November 10 Algonac Friday: October 7; Monday: November 14* '•••sn 15 : 0 2 0 254 17 changed by Veterans Day holiday Houston Monday: October 10, November 14 New Orleans Tuesday: October 11, November 15 Mobile Wednesday: October 12, November 16 San Francisco Thursday: October 13, November 17 Wilniington Monday: October 17, November 21 Seattle Friday: October 21, November 25 San Juan Thursday: October 6, November 10 St Louis Friday: October 14, November 18 ' Honolulu Friday: October 14, November 18 Duluth Wednesday: October 12, November 16 Jersey City Wednesday: October 19, November 23 NewBedfbrd Tuesday: October 18, November 22 ; Each port's me^ng starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals - ^ RON "RONNIE" CARRAWAY Please contact your nephew, Gaiy Carraway (Ross's son), at P.O. Box 13, New Salisbury, IN 47161; or call (812) 365-2585. EUGENE DUANE Please contact your nephew, Joseph Duane, at 31-12 86th SL, Elmhurst, NY 11369. FRANK JAMES MacKENZIE Anyone with information on Frank James MacKenzie should contact his son, John MacKenzie, c/o Gamer, 12404 Tahoe Trail, Lusby, MD 20657. BERTENMARKLEY Please call your father, Scott, at (309) 3342275. BROTHER ED MONROE Thank you for everything fiom Michael Mur­ phy and his wife. PATRICK JOHN ROONEY Please contact Raymond Banks at 5049-A Backlick Rd., Annandale, VA 22003. MARKRUHL Please contact Zeda Ruhl at 18219 Rolling Meadow Way, Olney, MD 20832. LEONARDO SINISI Please contact J.A. Gross at P.O. Box 1434, Sebring, FL 33870. RICK WILSON Please write Steve Parker at 2 Albion Rd., Cape Elizabeth, ME; or call (207) 775-7975. 'A - • \ • �••.y SEFTEMRER1994 18 SEAFARERS LOG Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes Seafarers Internatianal Union Directory Michael Sacco Resident John Fay Secretaiy-Treasurer Joseph Sacco Executive Vice President Augustin Tellez Vice President Collective Bargaining George McCartn^ Vice President West Goast Roy A. "Buck" Mercer Vice President Government Services Jack CaflTey Vice President Atlantic Coast Byron Kelley Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Coreey . Vice President Gulf Coast HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr. Algonac, Ml 48001 (810)794-4988 BALTIMORE 1216 E. Baltimore St Baltimore, MD 21202 (410) 3.27-4900 DULUTH 705 Medical Arts Building Duluth, MN 55802 (218)722-4110 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St. Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St. Houston, TX 77002 (713)659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St. Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904)353-0987 JERSEY CITY 99 Montgomery St. Jersey City, NJ 07302 (201) 435-9424 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy. Mobile, AL 36605 (205) 478-0916 NEW BEDFORD 48 Union St. New Bedford, MA 02740 (508)997-5404 NEW ORLEANS 630 Jackson Ave. New Orleans, LA 70130 (504) 529-7546 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718)499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St. Norfolk, VA 23510 (804) 622-1892 PHILADELPHIA 9604 <? 4 Philadelphia,"PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75 Kney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 2 West Dixie Highway Dania, FL 33004 (305) 921-5661 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St. San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Government Services Division (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave. Stop 16V^ Santurce, PR 00907 (809)721-4033 SEATTLE 2505 First Ave. Seattle, WA 98121 (206)441-1960 ST. LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave. SL Louis, MO 63116 (314)752-6500 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave. Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 JULY 16 — AUGUST 15,1994 CL—Company/Lakes L—Lakes NP—Non Priority •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac 0 22 7 0 7 7 0 16 16 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP DECK DEPARTMENT 0 41 18 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 25 12 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 10 7 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 G O ••REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class CL OassL Class NP 0 36 i '' 8 • 0 " -oM ,7 0 28 0 95 0 76 37 41 Totals All Departments 56 0 95 0 * 'Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. ** "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. 37 59 Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters JULY 16- AUGUST 15,1994 •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast 1 Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals 4 . ' ' 2 51 0 57 0 6 0 2 8 0 10 0 7 17 'V• 2 2 27 0 31 0 2 0 0 2 0 6 0 0 6 0 1 0 3 0 8 0 1 3 0 3 6 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C ••REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C DECK DEPARTMENT 0 0 25 1 2 2 3 ' 3 0 22 1 54 101 2 28 . 7 126 5 31 89 ENGINE DEPARTMENT y:'-2 0 > 0 1 0 0 2 2 11 0 0 36 1 0 0 0 13 0 2 40 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 , 2 0 3 2 0 0 1 1 1 10 0 19 4 2 4 0 4. 10 1 0 0 0 1 0 1 2 • 0 •: 19 • • 0 >• 29 48 "-"y,:' 8 • . •-,0 8 ^ . •-v'-y.y 0 " 4 • 'y''!^ y.y;10 Totals All Departments 96 11 29 149 5 37 148 13 66 * 'Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. ** "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. Are You Missing Important Mail? In order to ensure that each active SIU member and pensioner receives a copy of the Seafarers LOG each month—as well as other important mail such as W-2 forms, pension and welfare checks and bulletins or notices—a correct home address must be on file with the union. If you have moved recently or feel that you are not getting your union copy of the LOG delivered to you, if mail, please use the form on this page you have changed your address, or if to update your home address. your name or address is misprinted or incomplete, complete the Your home address is your per­ form and sendplease it to: manent address, and this is where all Seafarers International Union official union documents will be Address Correction Department mailed (unless otherwise specified). 5201 Auth Way If you are getting more than one Camp Springs, MD 20746 ; HOME ADDRESS FORM (PLEASE PRINT) 9/94 Name I Phone No. (_ I Address. I Social Security No. Active SIU Other Book No. n Pensioner This will be my permanent address for all official union mailings. This address should remain in the union file unless otherwise changed by me personally. (Signed). I! • i �SBWARBaUK J oining the growing number of SIU pensioners this month are 33 Seafarers who have retired to the beach after many voyages on the world's oceans, waterways and lakes. Twenty-three of those signing off sailed in the deep sea division, seven navigated the in­ land waterways, two sailed on the Great Lakes and one was a member of the Railroad Marine Division. Among those joining the ranks of the retirees, four com­ pleted the bosun recertification course and three graduated from the stewju-d recertification course at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. The recertified bosuns are Brothers John Davies, Clif­ ford A. Perreira, Manuel A. Siiva and Ronald F. Wolf. Those completing the steward recertification course are Brothers Samuel A. Goodman, Lance Rene and Robert Spencer. Seventeen of the retiring Seafarers served in the U.S. military—10 in the Army and seven in the Navy. Brief biographical sketches of Brothers Davies, Perreira, Silva, Wolf, Goodman, Rene and Spen­ cer as well as the other new pen­ sioners follow. DEEP SEA JAMES E. BOND, 71, bom in Vir­ ginia, joined the Seafarers in 1946 in the port of Bal­ timore. Brother Bond sailed in the deck department. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to 1945. Brother Bond calls Maryland home. DANIEL A. BRASS, 65, began sailing with the SIU in 1947 in the port of Nor­ folk, Va. He sailed in the engine depart­ ment. Brother Brass frequently upgraded his skills at the Lun­ deberg School in Piney Point He has retired to his native Maryland. SANTIAGO CERRATO, 66, was bom in Honduras and joined the union in 1974 in the port of New Orleans. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Cerrato upgraded his skills at the Lundeberg School. He currently resides in Louisiana. GERALD M. HALLIGAN, 61, joined the Seafarers in 1964 in the port of New York. He sailed in the deck depart­ ment. The New Orleans native at­ tended the Andrew Fumseth Train­ ing School and frequently upgraded his skills at the Lun­ deberg School. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1952 to 1958. He has retired to Louisiana. SIMA PADILLA, 66, began sail­ ing with the Seafarers in 1967 in San Juan. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Padilla _•/ }, ! To Our New Pensioners ... Thanks for a Job Well Done Each month in the Seafarers LOG, the names of SIU members who recently have become pensioners appear with a brief biographical sketch. These men and Women have served the maritime industry well, and the SIU and all their union brothers and sisters wish them happiness and health in the days ahead. upgraded his skills at Piney Point. He served in the U.S. Army from 1950 to 1954. Brother Padilla still resides in Puerto Rico. EUGENE CIPULLO, 65, began sail­ ing with the SIU in 1972 in the port of New York as a member of the engine department. Brother Cipullo fre­ quently upgraded at the Lundeberg School. He served in the U.S. Army from 1951 to 1953. Bom in Massachusetts, Seafarer Cipullo has retired to Florida. THOMAS COMMANS, 67, bom in Mississippi, joined the Seafarers in 1977 in the port of Nor­ folk, Va. He attended upgrading classes at the Lundeberg School. Brother Commans sailed in the deck depart­ ment. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1944 to 1952. Brother Commans currently resides in Califor­ nia. JOHNS. DAVIES, 66, a native of Pennsylvania, began sailing with the SIU in 1946 in the port of New York. Brother Davies sailed in the deck department. He completed the bosun recertification course at the Lundeberg School. He calls Penn­ sylvania home. RICHARD W, FORGAYS,67, joined the union in 1952 in the port of Detroit. Bom in Michigan, he started out sailing in the Great Lakes division. He then trans­ ferred to the deep sea division in 1973, sailing in the steward depart­ ment Brother Forgays served in the U.S. Army from 1945 to 1949. He has retired to Michigw. SAMUEL A. GOODMAN, 67, joined the Seafarers in 1978 in the port of San Francisco. He sailed in the steward department. Brother Goodman graduated from the steward recer­ tification course at the Lundeberg School in 1980. He served in the U.S. Army from 1944 to 1946. Bom in Arkansas, Brother Good­ man currently resides in Washington. -I- REINALDO GOMEZ, 51, began sailing with the SIU in San Juan in 1974 as a member of the engine department. He attended upgrading classes at the Lundeberg School. Brother ' Gomez served in the U.S. Army from 1960 to 1961. He currently resides in his native Puerto Rico. JAMES LEE ROY JACK­ SON, 65, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1955 in the port of San Francisco. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Jackson upgraded his skills at the Lundeberg School. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1944 to 1949. Bom in Illinois, he has retired to Texas. ALFRED E. LEWAKOWSKI, 64, a na­ tive of Michigan, joined the SIU in 1968 in the port of Boston, Mass. He started his maritime career on the Great Lakes and transferred to the deep sea division in 1978. Brother Lewakowski actively par­ ticipated in union organizing drives and beefs. He upgraded his deck department skills in Piney Point Brother Lewakowski served in the U.S. Navy from 1943 to 1945. He lives in Massachusetts. SAMUEL L. LOFTIN,61, joined the union in 1965 in his home port of Mobile, Ala. Brother Loftin sailed in the steward department as chief cook. He has retired to Alabama. CLIFFORD A. PER­ REIRA, 71, bom in Honolulu, joined the SIU in 1961 in the port of San FrancisCO. He sailed in the deck depart­ ment. Brother Perreira graduated from the bosun recertification coiu^ at the Lundeberg School in 1982 and attended other upgrading classes there. He makes his home in Hawaii. tion course. Bom in Malaysia, Brother Rene is a naturalized U.S. citizen and currently resides in Idaho. DIMAS RODRI­ GUEZ, 62, joined the union in 1967 in the port of New York. He sailed in the steward department as a cook and baker. Brother Rodriguez attended upgrad­ ing courses at the Lundeberg School. He has retired to his na­ tive Puerto Rico. ANTHONY RUSSO, 69, began sailing with the SIU in 1959 in the port of New York. Brother Russo sailed in the engine department, most recently aboard the American Kestrel, a Pacific Gulf Marine ves­ sel. Brother Russo has retired to New York. JOSEPH E. SADLER, 65, bom in Maryland, joined the SIU in the 1951 in the port of New York. He sailed in the engine department Brother Sadler upgraded his skills in the engine department at the Lundeberg School. He served in the U.S. Army from 1954 to 1956. Brother Sadler currently resides in Rhode Island. MANUEL A. SILVA, 59, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1965 in the port of New York. He worked in the deck department, last sailing as bosun. Brother Silva completed the bosun recertification course at the Lundeberg School. He has retumed to his native Portugal to live. ROBERT SPENCER, 68, joined the SIU in 1948 in the port of Mobile. The Alab^a na­ tive sailed in tlie steward department. Brother Spencer graduated from the isteward recer­ tification course in 1981 at the Lun­ deberg School in Piney Point. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to 1945. Brother Spencer con­ tinues to call Alabama home. HERIBERTO VAZ­ LANCE QUEZ, 65, a RENE, 64, native of Puer­ began sailing to Rico, with the began sailing Seafarers in with the 1%5 in the union in 1965 port of San in the port of Francisco. New York. Brother Vazquez He sailed in graduated from the Andrew the steward department Brother Rene upgraded his skills at the Lun­ Fumseth Training School in New York. He sailed in the engine deberg School, including gradua­ department. Brother Vazquez tion from the steward recertifica- 19 upgraded his skills at the Limdeberg School. He has retumed to Puerto Rico to retire. RONALD F. WOLF, 65, joined the Seafarers in 1980 in the port of New York. He sailed in the deck depart­ ment. Brother Wolf upgraded fre­ quently at the Lundeberg School and successfully completed the bosun recertification course there in 1988. Brother Wolf has retired' to New York. 'M' INLAND LUIS BONILLA, 66, a native of Puerto Rico, began sailing with the union in 1979 in the port of San Juan. Boatman Bonilla sailed in the steward department. He makes his home in Puerto Rico. JAMES T. BURNS, 62, bom in Buf­ falo, N.Y., joined the Seafarers in 1961 in the port of Algonac, Mich, He sailed in the dec r department Boatman Bums served in the U.S. Army from 1949 to 1952. He has retir^ to Ohio. wmi ROBERT G. CROFT, 62, began sailing with the SIU in 1964 in the port of Hous­ ton. He sailed in the deck depart­ ment. Bom in Massachusetts, Boatman Croft calls Texas home. LESTER J. HEBERT, 57, joined the SIU in 1973 in the port of Port Arthur. He sailed as a captain. Boatman Hebert served in the U.S. Army from 1952 to 1959. He makes his home in his native Texas. EARL ODOM, 60, joined the Seafarers in 1961 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Boatman Odomwas employed in Dravo Natural Resour­ ces dr^ging operations. He has retired to his home state of Alabama. JOSEPH L TROSCLAIR, 62, began sail­ ing with the union in 1966 in the port of New Orleans. He most recoitly sailed ^ a tugboat captain. Bom in Louisiana, Brother Trosclair lives in Texas. ALLENC WILLIAMS, 62, began sail­ ing with the Seafarers in 1961 in the port of Nor­ folk. He sailed in the deck department. Boatman WilContinued on page 22 v. '3 ••• �-••ti6;«2itiapSi6»:Uyy>fiiav.4»t44s^S<;tK55Si^ 20 SEPTEMBER 1994 SEAFARERS LOG -Mm 0 i;: •: a n d.: [.and ;;y:-- •: •-.f As part of the Military Sealift Command's (MSG) prepositioning fleet based off Diego Garcia, the main function of the Seafarers-crewed MV Lawrence Gianella is refueling U.S. military ships. A T-5 tanker, the Gianella some­ times conducts underway replenish­ ment (unrep) operations with aircraft carriers, battleships and other military craft. At other times, the vessel trans­ fers fuel to Navy tankers which in turn unrep other Navy ships. This is be­ cause, at a length of 615 feet, the it--*, Gianella can maneuver in and out of ports which are inaccessible to many Outfitted with a modular fuel delivery system, Navy tankers ranging in length from the Gianellacan transfer3,000 gallons of fuel per hose per minute. 700 to 800 feet. Second Anniversary This summer quietly marked the two-year an­ niversary of an historic operation involving the Gianella. In July 1992, the Gianella became the first civilian-operated tanker to replenish an aircraft carrier (the USS Independence) under operational conditions. This took place in the Persian Gulf and marked the first of nearly three-dozen such opera­ tions for the SlU-crewed vessel. Operated by Ocean Shipholding, the Gianella was fitted with a modular delivery system AB John Weaver Is ready to go developed by the Navy to rapidly modify commer­ to work on the ship's deck. cial taiikers in emergencies, thereby enabling the tankers to deliver fuel to underway Nayy ships. Shipboard Meeting Updates Busy Crusader Crew ^0 When the Sea-Land Crusader docks at Port Elizabeth, N.J., Seafarers know it marks the end of another successful 28-day voyage around the U.S. Atlantic and Gulf coasts and into the Caribbean. During a recent visit to the Sea-Land facility in New Jersey, crewmembers were able to catch up on the latest information regarding the union and the maritime in­ dustry when SIU representatives from the port of New York came aboard to answer questions about the contract, file medical applications and distribute the Seafarers LOG. Bosun Harold Berggren took time out during the shipboard meeting to praise the quality and spirit of the crew on the Crusader. "This is a really good ship," said Berggren, who sails from the port of Nor­ folk, Va. "All departments work well together, keeping everything top notch so we can maintain our tight schedule." The Lancer-class containership makes regular stops in Jacksonville, Fla., New Or­ leans and Houston, as well as the Caribbean ports of San Juan, P.R. and Rio Haina, Dominican Republic. The bosun noted each stop requires a quick turnaround. IM ftif 10 S'5 Reading the latest maritime news In the Seafarers LOG Is Chief Electrician Oswald Bermeo. AB Reyes Flores listens during a shipboard meeting aboard the Sea-Land Crusader. Other Regions Although it normally operates in the British Indian Ocean Territories, the Gianella in recent years also has sailed in Far East and Australian waters. Like the other vessels in the prepositioning fleet, the 30,000-dwt tanker remains ready to sail, fiilly loaded, at a moment's notice and to any number of possible destinations. On a recent trip to Diego Garcia to meet with Seafarer crewmembers, SIU Port Agent Sal Aquia (who provided the photos accompanying this story) noted that the Gianella crew "does a good job of keeping up on union affairs and legislative issues which affect their employment. They may work a long way from the U.S., but they stay up-to-date on the things that matter to their livelihood." Involved In refueling opera­ tions Is AB Ray Childress. Testing the broth before serving lunch Is Ready for the meeting to start are SA Luis Chief Steward Nick Andrews. Rivera (left) and DEU Pablo Albino. 0^:0 • iF •SWh:' Chief Cook Martin Ketchem has plenty to do to keep the G/ane//a'screw well fed. Bosun Zlanal SInegar handles store operations with crane. Maintaining the deck watch during the offloading are AB Severiano Bonefont (left) and Bosun Harold Berggren. AB Thomas Votsis catches up on his reading during a break. •/ From left, QMED Calvin Murray, SA Ollle Abdull, Chief Steward Manuel Faria and QMED Tom Kesem enjoy a meal In the galley. Keeping, the deck swept clean Is AB Mark Smith. Taking part In the Crusader's union meeting are (from left) Chief Cook Benjamin Corpus, Bosun Harold Berggren, OMU Julio Reyes and SA Luis Rivera. �OAfWIBRSLOG WPTamER1994 Steward Delegate John Foster. Chairman notified crew that vessel has been sold to Kirby Tankships. Ship's water fountains need to be fixed. Engine delegate said port en­ gineer will check them out. No The Seafarer LOG attempts to print as many digests of union ship­ beefs or disputed OT reported in board minutes as possibie. On occasion, becau^ of space all three departments. Crew asked to help steward department in keep­ imitations, some win be omitted. ing ship clean and helping Ships minutes first are reviewed by the union's contract department. eliminate any problem with Those issues requiring attention or resoiution are addres^ by the roaches. Digest of Slops Meetings union upon receipt of the ships minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for pubiication. USNS SILAS BENT{Bay Ship Management), April 29—Chair­ man Robert S. Vazquez, Secretary Ben Henderson, Educational Director Richard Larsen, Steward Delegate Thomas J. Robinson. Chairman announced to crewmembers that next inspection would take place May.1 in port of Dubai. Ship's hull to be painted at that time. A Navy representative aboard ship presented steward department with letter of appreciation for job well done. Steward department received average weeldy sanitation score of 99 percent for month of April. Educational director urged members to attend upgrading cour­ ses at Lundeberg School. Treasurer announced $269 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported by all departments. Members made suggestions to contracts depart­ ment to consider review of length of time per tour aboard ship, crew requested purchase of ice coolers for deck and engine department and replacement of barbecue grill. Videotapes to be exchanged in port of Dubai. CAPE WASHINGTON (Amsca), May 22—Chairman Mark DePalma, Secretary Roy Royals, Educational Director George Cruzen, Deck Delegate Justin Savage, Steward Delegate Ken Whitfield. Chairman extended con­ gratulations to crewmembers for doing great job. Educational direc­ tor reminded members of increased earning opportunities by attending upgrading courses at Paul Hall Cen­ ter. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck, engine or steward departments. All ship's fiind money used to purchase movies in Charleston. Suggestion made for everyone to donate $.50 each meeting to be used to start new fund. Repairs being completed on ship's exercise equipment, and engine department will fix handle on forward washer. Thanks given to steward department for great food. Next port; Singapore. •. OMI WILLAMETTE{OMl), May 22—Chairman Eugene R. Bever­ ly, Secretary Walter Hansen. Chairman announced smoking limited to crewmen's rooms. Dis­ puted OT reported in engine depart­ ment. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck or steward delegates. Request made to con- OMI LEADER (OMI), June 1— Chairman Jim Scheck, Secretary Norman Duhe, Educational Direc­ tracts department to look into tor James McDaniel. No beefs or reducing amount of seatime needed disputed OT reported by deck, en­ for full retirement. Crewmembers gine or steward delegates. Crew­ requested all current union informa­ members reminded of no smoking tion be forwarded from head­ at any time policy in rec room and quarters to ship. mess hall. Crew asked to help keep ship clean and keep noise down USNS REGULUS (Bay Ship after 10 p.m. Vote of thanks given Management), May 20-^hairman to steward department for job well James L. Deano, Secretary Gale done. A. Flanagan, Educational Director Melvin L. Kerns. Chairman OMI WILLAMETTE{OMI), June reported good voyage. Crew doing 19—Chairman Eugene R. Bever­ great job keeping ship clean. ly, Secretary Antonio H. Hall, En­ Educational director stressed im­ gine Delegate Rudolph Lopez, portance of upgrading skills at Steward Delegate Clifford B. El­ Piney Point. No beefs or disputed liott. Some disputed OT reported OT reported by deck, engine or in engine department; otherwise, steward departments. Next port: no beefs or disputed OT noted by Guam. deck or steward delegates. Crew­ members reminded not to wear CHARLES L. BROWN (Tran­ tank tops in mess hall during meal soceanic Cable), June 28—Chair­ hour. Also, when signing off ship, man Francisco J. Sousa, Secretary everyone should clean rooms. Ship Brenda M. Kamiya, Educational will be laying up. At that time, Director William R. Carrol, crew hopes to donate videotape Steward Delegate Barney movie collection to other SIU ships. Johnson. Chairman reminded crew that ship is on cable repair stand­ OVERSEAS BOSTON by, and approximately every four (Maritime Overseas Corp.), May months a cable training exercise is 19—Chairman Paul D. Marra, held. Educational director re­ Secretary Manny Basas, Educa­ quested crewmembers to be con­ tional director Konstantinos Kossiderate of fellow shipmates, keep touros. Deck Delegate Rikent laundry area clean and maintain Seratt, Engine Delegate Tim O. safety procedures at all times. All Burnett, Steward Delegate Munir departments running smoothly Saleh. Bosun advised all members to read president's report in with no beefs or disputed OT. In consideration of crewmembers, re­ Seafarers LOG to better under­ quest made to paint inside of ship stand SIU history. Educational during day rather than at night director urged members to upgrade when AC units circulate fumes skills at Paul Hall Center. No beefs throughout all quarters. Chief mate or disputed OT reported by deck, stated that anybody who gets in­ engine or steward delegates. Re­ jured aboard ship should see him quest was made that policy of no as soon as possible to prevent wor­ smoking in mess hall during meal hour be observed. Crewmembers sening of condition. asked for help in cleaning rec LIBERTY SUN{UhcTty room. New TV antenna and radio Maritime), June 19—Chairman needed for rec room. Chief steward Joseph W. Moore, Secretary and chief cook given a vote of Frederick L.Washington Sr., thanks for job well done. Next Educational Director A.W. Burport: Anacortes, Wash. rell. Chairman reminded crewmem­ RALEIGH BAY{Sea-Land Ser­ bers to turn in safety kits,and room vice), June 5—Chairman Howard keys when leaving ship. All dirty dishes should be returned to galley. Knox, Secretaiy J.P. Speller, Educational Director David J. Request made to have parts of Dukehart. Chairman advised crew­ deck, mess hall and pantry members of importance of con­ repaired. Some disputed OT reported in deck and engine depart­ tributing to SPAD. He asked them to try to keep ship clean, including ments. No beefs or disputed OT microwave ovens. Educational reported in steward department. director noted importance of attend­ OMI CHAMPION (OMI), June ing upgrading courses at Lun­ 18—Chairman M. de la Cerda, deberg School. Ship's delegates Secretary Walter Hansen, reported no beefs or disputed OT. SEA-LAND DEFENDER {SeaLand Service), June 15—Chairman R. Wagner, Secretary Curtis L. Phillips, Deck Delegate Donald Morrison. Copies of Seafarers LOGs received in Long Beach, Calif. Crewmembers were reminded to go through proper channels when settling beefs—to department delegate. Some dis­ puted OT reported in deck depart­ ments. No beefs or disputed OT reported in engine or steward departments. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. Gifts from Strangers During a stopover of the Sealift Antarctic in Adak. Alaska, Bnan Sandlin takes a break to visit with one of the m^y home. This one was most daring: Sandlin, he left a gift for the bosun—a white tail feather. (Photo and liver contributed by Chief Cook Sam Harris.) ,V y; .y SEA-LAND EXPEDITION{SeaLand Service), June 12—Chairman Paulino Flores, Secretary Edgar Vazquez, Educational Director L.V. Hargesheimer. I)Io beefs or disputed OT reported in engine or steward departments. Chairman had questions about OT in deck depattmeni. Secs-cterj' every­ thing OK. Payoff will be in Port Elizabeth, N.J. upon arrival. Educa­ '"J-''.V.... tional director stressed importance of taking advantage of training facility at Piney Point for upgrad­ ing skills and job security. Vote of thanks given to steward departmerit for fine meals. SEA-LAND PACIFIC{Sea-Land Service), June 24—Chairman Lothar G.G. Reck, Deck Delegate Robert L. Smith, Engine Delegate A1 Bombita Jr., Steward Delegate Rebecca Pouliot No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported aboard ship. Educational director advised mem­ bers to take advantage of courses available at Lundeberg School Treasurer announced $40 in movie fiind and $325 in ship's fund. Steward department thanked for job well done. Engine delegate reminded crewmembers of impor­ tance of contributing to SPAD. SEA-LAND PRODUCER (SeaLand Service), June 12—Chairman Kenneth C. McGregor, Secretary 21 4- courses at Paul Hall Center. Deck department reported some disputed OT for tank cleaning. Engine and steward department delegates reported no beefs or disputed OT. Request made to look into im­ proved mail service and distribu­ tion. Letter to be written to company regarding several items to be repaired aboard ship, includ­ ing upholstery, guards for fans, VCR and some deck tiles. Next port: Houston, Texas. BALDOMERO LOPEZ(Amsea), July 31—Chairman Jetfery Moritz, Secretary Anthony Ferrara. Educational Director R. Rudd, Steward Delegate Wigberto Reyes. Chairman reminded crew of importance of registering in hall within 48 hours to retain job status. Ship currently at anchor in Saipan. Mail to arrive in Guam August 12. Educational director arivised all crewmembers to upgrade skills at Working in White •W • AB Mike Duggan (left) and Bosun Cesar A. Gutierrez, balanced on bosuns' chairs and with paintbrushes in hand, help keep the hull of the OMIMissouri in pristine condition. Donna Jean demons. Education­ al Director James Smitko, Deck Delegate Mark Stevens, Engine Delegate Ted H. Carter, Steward Delegate Susano C. Cortez. Bosun reported estimated time of arrival in Oakland, Calif. He also noted steam irons have been or­ dered and should be in stores for next voyage. Treasurer announced crew fund still at $55. No beefs or disputed OT reported by three department delegates. Crew thanked steward department for wonderful barbecue, with Special thanks to AB Mike Tracy for king crab legs he got in Canada. Repair list has several items, including new mattresses, which will be presented to captain and union for review. SEALIFT ARABIAN SEA (IMC), June 5—Chairman Tom Prather, Secretary All S. Hassan, Steward Delegate Joseph Simonetti. Minutes of last meeting reviewed. Recommendation made by educational director to reshow training films after drills. Treasurer suggested new videos be purchased and offered ideas on how to raise money to purchase new VCR. En­ gine delegate noted ice machine would be repaired or replaced as soon as possible. Steward delegate announced fresh milk and fruit on order and that 60-day stores would be taken on at next port, which is Rotterdam, Netherlands. SEALIFT CARIBBEAN (IMC), June 17—Chairman Richard Nicholas, Secretary Dorothy Bar­ nes, Educational Director Joe Stores, Engine Delegate Glynn Courson, Steward Delegate Larry Wayne Nicholson. Chairman an­ nounced any disputed OT due to delayed sailing would be collected at payoff. Educational director urged members to attend upgrading . • Piney Point. Treasurer announced $597 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported in deck, en­ gine and steward departments. Copies of Seafarers LOG received aboard ship. Suggestion regarding increased dental and optical in­ surance to be sent to contracts department. Crewmembers asked to use courtesy in crew lounge by cleaning up and shutting off TV, VCR and lights when not in use. Steward department given vote of thanks for outstanding job and great variety of wonderful food. ' 'ik iii •,"sv" •„.f:: CLEVELAND{SeamBu\kers), July 3—Chairman DavidJ. Garoutte, Secretary Miguel Vinca, Educational Director Iqhal Samra, Deck Delegate Paul J. Cadran, Engine Delegate Nathaniel Gaten, Steward Delegate Ruti Dement. Chairman advised crewmembers to resolve any conflicts with department delegate, then ship's chairman. He also reminded crew not to go on deck during pirate watch. Educa­ tional director urged those who have time to upgrade at Lundeberg School. Education is free and gives members greater earning potential. Treasurer announced $115 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported by ship's three delegates. Items in galley and crew quarters that need fixing will be put on repair list. All hands reminded to be considerate of fel­ low shipmates by keeping noise down in passageways. Steward department given vote of thanks for great barbecue and excellent pastries and goodies. CLEVELAND{Seaim Bulkers), July 24—Chairman David J. Garoutte, Secretary Miguel Vinca, Educational Director Iqhal Samra, Deck Delegate Paul J. Continued on page 22 Zy4 �22 SEPTEMBER 1994 SEAFMERSLOG Ships Digest Continued from page 21 Delegate Dean Dobbins, Steward Delegate Mohamed M. Quaraish. Crewmembers requested update on computation of vacation pay. Educational director reminded all members to upgrade skills by at­ tending courses at Piney Point. Treasurer Dana Naze announced $1,057 in ship's fund. Request for clarification of increase on penalty and overtime rates sent to contracts department. Next port: Diego Gar­ cia. Cadran, Engine Delegate Nathaniel Gaten, Steward Delegate Ruti Demont. Chairman reported eveiything running smoothly with job well done by all hands. Repair list given to chief en­ gineer and chief mate. Educational director talked about furthering NUEVO SAN JUAN (PRMMI), education and skills at Paul Hall July 1—Chairman Jerry Borucki, Center. Treasurer announced $115 Secretary Hazel Johnson, Educa­ in ship's fund. Some of it may be tional Director Charles Gallagher, used for specialty food for bar­ Deck Delegate Victor Beata, En­ becue scheduled en route to Sin­ gine Delegate Abby R. Aragones, gapore from Diego Garcia. No Steward Delegate Isidro Santiago. beefs or disputed OT reported by Suggestion made to have draws for deck, engine or steward delegates. all members put out at every port. Copies of new contract going into Secretary thanked crew for helping effect Aug. 4 received. Vote of thanks given to steward department keep ship clean. He also requested for clean ship, good food and fresh­ crew to observe no smoking signs aboard ship. Chairman urged all ly baked goods. Good effort by all members to upgrade at Lundeberg hands in keeping noise down. Re­ quest made for everyone to pick up School. He noted school is also great place to take family for sum­ clothes from laundry when mer vacation. Crew thanked for finished. keeping ship accident-free, and CPL. LOUIS J. HAUGE JR. reminder given about importance (Maersk), July 3—Chairman of contributing to SPAD. Bosun Jerome J. Fahey, Secretary Wil­ also asked for donations of cloth­ liam J. Bunch, Educational Direc­ ing and shoes to be given to poor tor E. Snow. Discussion held in Dominican Republic. Follow­ regarding new regulations aboard ing stops in Jacksonville, Fla., military-contracted vessels. Educa­ Elizabeth, N.J. and San Juan, tional director encouraged all crew- P.R., ship will pay off in Bal­ members to take advantage of timore, Md. upgrading opportunities at Piney OMI DYNACHEMiOMl), July Point. Treasurer announced $153.18 in ship's fund. Suggestion 3—Chairman Lawrence L. Kunc, made to purchase new movies from Secretary Gregory G. Keene, Educational Director George ship's fund upon arrival in Bixby, Steward Delegate Thomas Thailand. Deck, engine and D. Kreis. New wages dikussed. steward departments reported no Crew awaits union patrolman at beefs or disputed OT. Next port: next payoff. Chairman also spoke Satahip, Thailand. about need for safety when weld­ GOLDEN MONARCH (Apex ing at sea. Secretary reminded all Marine), July 10—Chairman Ran­ members of importance of con­ dall Carlton Hanke, Secretary R. tributing to SPAD. He thanked Juzang. Ship en route to Panama deck gang for cleanliness of crew Canal Zone. Educational director ounge and passageways. Educa­ reminded members of upgrading tional director encouraged crew to facility available at Lundeberg upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center. School. No beefs or disputed OT Treasurer announced $136 in reported by three department movie fund. New movies are cur­ delegates. Next port: Beaumont, rently aboard. Department Texas. delegates reported no beefs or dis­ puted OT. New remote control GUA YAMA (PRMMI), July 10— needed for TV. Crew notified that Chairman Felix Santiago, they are entitled to transportation Secretary Ruhen Padilla, Educa­ after foreign articles are broken, tional Director Tony Mohammed, ^lext port: Jacksonville, Fla. Deck Delegate H. Dermody, En­ gine Delegate James H. Emidy III, Steward Delegate A. Serrano. Chairman reported vessel laying up for approximately six weeks in shipyard in Mobile, Ala. for repairs. Yard period for PRMMI's Humacao will follow. Educational director noted that for jpb secuiij^ and better pay, members should at­ tend courses at Lundeberg School. No beefs or disputed OT reported by all department delegates. Thanks given to steward depart­ ment for job well done. f! GffOTOAf (Sheridan Transporta­ tion), July 5—Chairman Melvin Santos, Secretary MaiYin Deloateh, Educational Director Pedro Santiago, Deck Delegate Clay Brown, Engine Delegate Abraham Daif, Steward Delegate Michael Hanunock. Chairman reported everything running smoothly. Ship to pay off July 7 in Stapleton, N.Y. He urged members to read Seafarers LOG and keep up with union matters. Secretary thanked crew for keeping mess room clean. Educational director advised members to take advantage of educational facilities at Paul Hall Center. Crew extended vote of thanks to steward department for very good cookout on Inde­ pendence Day. RICHARD G. MATTHIESEN (Ocean Shipholding), July 24Chmrman Salvatore Ciciulla, Steward Lovell McElroy, Educa­ tional Director R. Day, Deck Delegate ^Vayne Casey, Engine crewmember flown home from Venezuela with injury to leg. Re­ placement AB came aboard. Secretary stated port stores received and good July 4 celebra­ tion. Crew hopes to receive 60-day stores in port of Houston. No beefs or disputed OT reported in deck, engine or steward departments. Crew reported need for new ice machine and washing machine. Also, crew lounge needs new furni­ ture. Vote of thanks given to steward department for job well done. PATRIOT(Vulcan Carriers), July 21—Chairman Ralph Gibbs, Secretary Howard G. Williams, Educational Director Frederick C. Harris, Deck Delegate Cliff Evans, Engine Delegate Dan Gaylor. All running well, accord­ ing to bosun. Weekly barbecues great for morale. En route to Antofagasta, Chile on July 18, vessel resjionded to fishing boat flying distress flags, 106 miles from port of Puerto Pimentel, Peru. Captain thanked SlU crewmembers aboard for efforts in helping fishermen. Boat given diesel, water; food, cigarettes and battery jump start. No beefs or disputed OT reported by department delegates. Ice machine fixed and working OK. Received new sofa in Galveston, Texas. Crew washing machine fixed and many new movies aboard ship. Steward department thanked for doing great job. Ship heading to Argentina, Brazil and Venezuela, with expected payoff in Veracruz, Mexico. SEA-LAND ANCHORAGE (SeaLand Service), July 21—Chairman Garry D. Walker, Secretary Gerald Shirley, Educational Direc­ tor K. Bertel. Chairman an­ nounced arrival in port of Tacoma, Wash, with payoff scheduled. Educational director reminded crewmembers to register to vote and to get involved and active in local elections. Ship's department delegates reported no beefs or dis­ puted OT. Clarification received from headquarters about draws— 50 percent of net wages allowed. All hands reminded to be cour­ teous to fellow shipmates and return dl items to proper place. Steward department given vote of thanks for job well done. Bosun caught a 100-lb halibut in Kodiak, OMI MISSOURI (OMI), July 24— Alaska, and crew had great fish Chairman Frank Lyle, Secretary feast. Clyde Kreiss, Deck Delegate Neil D. Matthey, Engine Delegate R. , SEA-LAND EXPEDITION (SeaYbarra. Chairman announced jayoff scheduled for Corpus Chris- Land Service), July 10—Chairman ti, Texas. Treasurer announced $50 Norberto Prats, Secretary Edgar in ship's fund. Two hours disputed Vazquez, Educational Director Ruben A. Velez. Chairman OT reported in deck department. reported all running smoothly Vo beefs or disputed OT reported aboard ship. Educational director jy engine or steward delegates. advised crewmembers to attend Ship received copy of new pay upgrading classes at Paul Hall Cen­ rates. Request made to fix chair ter. No beefs or disputed OT egs in mess hall and lounge reported by department delegates. areas. OVERSEAS ALASKA (Maritime Overseas Corp.), July 26—Chairman Daniel W. Sea^e, Secretary Lincoln Finn, Education­ al Director G. Montgomery. Chair­ man estimated time of arrival for docking and payoff in Tacoma, Wash. He noted crew washing machine needs to be fixed or replaced. Educational director an­ nounced new EPA-approved refrigeration technician certifica­ tion courses will be held in San Francisco, Seattle and Honolulu in October. All interested persons should plan to attend. No beefs or disputed OT reported by ship's department delegates. PATRIOT(Vulcan Carriers), July 1—Chairman Ralph Gibbs, Secretary Howard G. Williams, Deck Delegate Thomas^emple, Engine Delegate Mark K. Stewart, Steward Delegate Daniel L. Payne. Chairman reported one SEA-LAND HAWAII (Sea-Land Service), July IS-rChairman Jimmy L. Carter, Deck Delegate James A.Speer, Engine Delegate James Hagner. Educational direc­ tor announced hazardous materials training information and movie provided for all crew by chief mate. Ship awaiting air condition­ ing filters which will be installed upon arrival aboard ship. He urged members to go to Piney Point for upgrading courses. Bosun asked for donations to start movie/enter­ tainment fund. Some disputed OT reported in deck department. No beefs or disputed OT reported in engine or steward departments. New mattress requested by one member and new tbaster needed for crew lounge. SEA-LAND LIBERATOR (SeaLand Service), July 10—Chairman Joel Miller, Secretary R.A. Gar­ cia. Chairman announced payoff scheduled for Long Beach, Calif. New mattresses on order for crew. Secretary getting off in Long Beach. He thanked everyone for help in keeping clean and safe ship. He advised members to look toward Lundeberg School for ship­ board advancement. No beefs or disputed OT reported by depart­ ment delegates. Vote of thanks given to steward department for goodjob. disputed OT reported by depart­ ment delegates. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. SEA-LAND SPIRIT(Sea-Land Service), July 24—Chairman Catch of the Day SEA-LAND PACER (Sea-Land Service), July 10—Chairman Michael A. Johnson, Secretary William C. Wroten, Educational Director Stan Popov, Deck Delegate Jeffrey Mateer, Steward Delegate John Bennett. Chairman said routine voyage with only minor problems. He reminded crewmembers to close doors gently to avoid waking men in adjoining rooms. He will arrange for ex­ change of movies in Japan. Depart­ ment delegates reported no beefs or disputed OT. Vote of thanks given to steward department. Ship is heading toward Pusan, South Korea, with payoff scheduled for Yokohama, Japan on July 15. SEA-LAND PRODUCER (SeaLand Service), July 10—Chairman Kenneth C. McGregor, Secretary Donna Jean demons. Education­ al Director Jim Smitko, Deck Delegate Wilfredo Acevedo, En­ gine Delegate Ted H. Carter, Steward Delegate Susano C. Cortez. Chairman announced steam irons received in port and located in crew laundry room. Captain received repair list and ordered new mattresses. Payoff scheduled for Long Beach, Calif. Men getting off requested to clean rooms. Treasurer announced $55 in crew fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck, engine and steward departments. Vessel celebrated July 4 with barbecue and fireworks. Crew thanked steward department for job well done and for extra effort for cookout. Bosun thanked deck department for outstanding job in #9 and #10 holds. Next port: Oak­ land, Calif. SEA-LAND RELIANCE (SeaLand Service), July 7—Chairman A. Eckert, Secretary G. SIvley, Educational Director A. Jamamillo. Copies of Seafarers LOGs received in Honolulu. Chairman asked all crewmembers to report any necessaiy repairs. He thanked crew for smooth trip. No beefs or Pensioners Continued from page 19 'i- OMU Charles Donley holds the mahi-mahi he caught from the fantail of the USNS Silas Bent. Howard Glhhs, Secretary Aubrey Gething, Educational Director Robert A. Martinez, Deck Delegate Theodore Doi, Steward Delegate Sheng Jen Hsieh. Chair­ man reported new exercise machine purchased for crew. Secretary announced anyone wish­ ing to upgrade at Paul Hall Center should contact the school directly or send in application from LOG. Educational director stressed im­ portance of donating to SPAD. Treasurer Bradford Mack reported $140 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck, engine or steward depart­ ments. Vote of thanks given to steward department for good ser­ vice and tasty meals. Next port: Honolulu, Hawaii. Steamship Co. vessel, the Charles E. Wilson. He currently resides in Michigan. RAILROAD MARINE Hams upgraded his skills at the Lun­ GARLAND E. BROOKS, 66, joined the Seafarers in 1960 in the deberg School. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1951 to 1955. The port of Norfolk, Va. Brother Brooks was last employed with the Missouri native has retired to Florida. marine division of C&O Railroad. He served in the U.S. Army from GREAT LAKES 1946 to 1947. Brother Brooks has JOHNS. retired to his native Virginia. MONACO, 61, joined the CORRECTION SIU in 1961 Some factual errors were in the port of listed in Paul Laborde's Cleveland, retirement announcement in Ohio. He last month's LOG. Brother sailed in the Laborde started his shipping deck depart­ career in 1951 at the age of ment. Brother Monaco served in 16. He became a full book the U.S. Army from 1952 to 1955. member of the SIU in 1959. He calls Ohio home. He sailed in the steward and ALFRED engine departments temporari­ ZAPOLly, bpt primarily wprked in the NEK,71, deck department. Pensioner bqgan saiUng Laborde spent most of his with the shipboard life in the capacity union in 1948 of an AB. He also held a in the port of bosun's endorsement. He last Algonac, sailed aboard the supertanker. Mich. He Ocean Duchess, in July 1993. sailed in the Brother Laborde retired in engine department. Brother ZapolApril 1994. nek last sailed aboard the American • �'•f- . • :S. i;'' •3;:: \ -.. 1994 SEAFMERSLOG 23 Final Departures DEEP SEA LEO F. BROWN Pensioner L^o F. Brown, 81, died February 1. A native of Michigan, he joined the SIU in 1961 in the portofDetroiL Brother Brown began his sailing career in the Great Lakes Division and later sailed in the deep sea SlU-contracted fleet. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Brown retired in July 1977. WESLEY T. CHRISTIANSON Pensioner Wesley T. Christianson, 68, passed away Decem­ ber 5, 1993. Bom in Louisiana, he began sailing with the SIU in 1944 in the port of New York. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Christianson started receiv­ ing his pension in January 1988. STANLEY J. CIESLAK Pensioner Stanley J. Cieslak, 72, died July 14. A native of Massachu­ setts, he joined the Seafarers in 1942 in the port of Boston. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Cieslak upgrad^ at the Lundeberg School. He served in the U.S. Army from 1944 to 1946. Brother Cieslak retired in January 1984. He began receiving his pension in December 1983. WILLIAM F. DOUGLAS Pensioner William F. Douglas, 66, died July 29. Bom in On­ tario, Canada, he joined the Seafarers in 1947 in the port of New York. He sailed in the deck depart­ ment. Brother Douglas upgraded at the Lundeberg School. He served in the U.S. Army from 1950 to 1952. Brother Douglas retired in September 1993. JOHNFEDESOVICH Pensioner John Fedesovich, 66, passed away Decem­ ber 19,1993. A native of New Hampshire, Brother Fedesovich joined the SIU in 1946 in the port of Norfolk. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Fedesovich upgraded frequently at the Lundeberg School. He began receiving his pension in May 1989. THOMAS FOULKE Thomas Foulke, 28, died August 3. Bom in Pensacola, Fla., he signed on with the SIU in 1987 in Piney Point, Md. after completing the Lun­ deberg School's training course for entry level seamen. Brother Foulke sailed in the deck depart­ ment and retumed to Piney Point for upgrading classes. ROBERT S. COSSIBOIN Pensioner Robert S. Cossiboin, 74, passed away JACK E. GERVAIS April 12. Pensioner Bom in Jack E. GerChicago, he vais, 69, began his sail­ passed away ing career May 28. A na­ with the SIU tive of in 1959 in the port of New York. Chicago, he He sailed in the engine department. began his sail­ Brother Cossiboin upgraded at the ing career Lundeberg School. He served in with the the U.S. Navy from 1940 to 1945. Seafarers in 1943 in the port of Brother Cossiboin began receiving New York, most recently sailing as his pension in October 1982. a bosun. Brother Gervais retired in CLIFFORD DAMMEYER Febmary 1986. Pensioner Clifford Dam- JUAN A.GOGLAS meyer, 66, Pensioner died July 12. Juan A. A native of Goglas, 71, New Jersey, died August he joined the 5. Bom in Seafarers in Puerto Rico, 1957 in the he joined the port of New SIU in 1944 York. He sailed in the deck depart­ in the port of ment. Brother Dammeyer New York. upgraded at Piney Point and Brother Goglas sailed in the engine graduated from the bosun recerdepartment. He upgraded at Piney tification course in 1974. He Point. Brother Goglas began served in the U. S. Air Force from receiving his pension in January 1946 to 1948. Brother Dammeyer 1984. retired in September 1981. ORLANDO H. DICKSON Pensioner Orlando H. Dickson, 79, passed away May 28. Brother Dickson joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1965 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters Dis­ trict (AGLIWD). Brother Dickson upgraded at the Lundeberg School. NRIQUE HERNANDEZ Pensioner Enrique Hernandez, 68, nassed away May 11. A native of ^lerto Rico, he began sailing with the Seafarers in 1947 in the port of Baltimore as a member of the steward department Brother Her­ nandez upgraded frequently at the .undeberg School. He retired in >Iovember 1991. ULYSSUS M. HOLLINGSWORTH Pensioner Ulyssus M. Hollingsworth, 83, died August 4, 1993. Bom in Coffeeville, Kan., he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1945, before that union merged with the AGLIWD. Brother Hollingsworth resided in Seattle, Wash. He began receiving his pension in December 1975. FREDDIE HORN Freddie Hom, 60, passed away July 21. A native of Jacksonville, Fla., he joined the SIU in 1970 in the port of New York. Brother Hom sailed in the engine department as a QMED. He upgraded frequently at the Lun­ deberg School. Brother Hom served in the U.S; Army from 1954 to 1957. HAROLD M. KARLSEN Pensioner Harold M. Karlsen, 79, died Novem­ ber 24, 1993. Bom in Nor­ way, he began his sail­ ing career with the Seafarers in 1941 in the port of New Orleans. He sailed in the steward department. Brother Karlsen retired to Louisiana in April 1979. JAN M. KOLODZIEJ Pensioner Jan M. Kolodziej, 84, passed away July 6. A native of Massachu­ setts, he joined the SIU in 1957 in the port of New York, sailing in the deck department. Brother Kolodziej upgraded at Piney Point. He began receiving his pension in October 1975. JESUS LAXAMANA Jesus Laxamana, 50, died July 21. Bom in the Philip­ pines, he joined the Seafarers in 1981 in the port of San Francisco. He sailed in the steward department. Brother Laxamana served in the U. S. Army from 1962 to 1965. THOMAS LUNDY Pensioner Thomas Lundy, 65, passed away July 19. A na­ tive of Missis­ sippi, he joined the SIU in 1955 in the port of Mobile, Ala. He sailed in the en­ gine department. Brother Lundy retired in November 1991. FRANCIS A. MUNRGE Pensioner Francis A. Munroe, 74, passed away July 8. A native of Canada, he joined,the SIU in 1957 in the port of Chicago. He sailed in the steward department. Brother Munroe served in the U.S. Navy from 1940 to 1947. He retired August 1984. JAMES E. MARTIN James E. Mar­ tin, 49, died July 11. Bom in Cleveland Ohio, he joined tlie Seafarers in 1991 in the port of Mobile, Ala. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Martin served in the U.S. Navy from 1963 to 1966. FLOYD E. PERKINS Floyd E. Perkins, 67, died March 9. Bom in Mis­ sissippi, he started sailing with the Seafarers in 1951 in the port of Nor­ folk, Va. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Perkins served in the U. S. Army from 1944 to 1946. SAMUEL PHILLIPS Pensioner Samuel Phil­ lips, 94, passed away July 3. A na­ tive of the British West Indies, he began his sail­ ing career with the SIU in 1942 in the port of New York. He sailed in the steward department. Brother PhiL lips began receiving his pension in December 1964. SAMUEL E. POWELL Pensioner Samuel E. Powell, 63, died Novem­ ber 12,1993. A native of Columbia, S.C., he graduated from the Andrew Furaseth School in New York and began sailing with the SIU in 1960. He sailed in the en­ gine department. Brother Powell upgraded at the Lundeberg School. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1948 to 1949. Brother Powell began receiving his pension in January 1988. SANTOS REYES Pensioner Santos Reyes, 74, passed away July 2. A native of Texas, he started sailing with the SIU in 1947 in the port of Gal­ veston. He sailed in the steward department. Brother Reyes began receiving his pension in September 1984. HANSD.SCHULTE Hans D. Schulte, 52, passed away November 11, 1993. Bom in Germany, the natural­ ized U.S. citizen joined the Seafarers in 1968 in the port of Wilmington. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Schulte served in tlie U.S. Navy from 1962 to 1966. JOHN J. POWERS Pensioner John J. Powers, 86, died July 27. Bom in Boston, Mass., he joined the Seafarers as a charter member in 1938 in the port of Bal­ timore, sailing as a member of the deck department. Brother Powers retired in March 1966. •f • ARTHURSULLA Pensioner Ar­ thur Sulla, 80, died Novem­ ber 24, 1993. A native of Estonia, he began sailing with the SIU in 1943 in the port of New York. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Sulla was ac­ tive in union organizing efforts. He began receiving his pension in September 1972. MICHAEL J. TEWES Michael J. Tewes, 38, passed away July 6. Bom in New York City, he signed on with the SIU in 1978 in Piney Point, Md. after completing the Lundeberg School's training course for entry level seamen. He sailed in the deck department, retuming to Piney Point to upgrade his skills. Brother Tewes served in the U.S. Navy from 1973 to 1974. AUGUSTIN VAN SEVEREN Pensioner Augustin Van Severen, 82, died July 31. A nati ve of Honduras, he became a naturalized U.S. citizen. Brother Van Severen joined the Seafarei-s in 1956 in the port of New Orleans. He sailed in the engine department. He retired in November 1979. •r,,r DOUGLAS VERGES Douglas Verges, 59, passed away July 20. A native of New Orleans, La., he joined the SIU in 1969 in the port of San Francisco. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Verges served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1951 to 1954. STANLEY D. VIENNA Stanley D. Vienna, 43, died July 22. Bom in Califomia, he joined the Seafarers in 1989 in the port of Honolulu, sailing as a memter of the steward department. -f J.D. WILSON J.D.Wilson, 58, passed away August 2. A native of Alabama, he began his sail­ ing career with the SIU in 1959 in the port of Mobile. He sailed in the steward department. Brother Wilson ^duated from the steward recertification program at the Lun­ deberg School in 1982. •/ ••i 'k:' J ' -r.-. K- INLAND • •A' STEPHEN A. DORAN Stephen A. Doran, 33, died August 3, 1994. A native of New York, he signed on with the SIU in 1979 in Continued on page 25 1-• �24 seprsmevfAM XAFARBRSLOB V A Inquiring Seafarer Question: What do you do in your time off when you are not on a ship? ^ ' I'V'''' •°A tion: Whenever it comes up, I do the political work the union asks me to do. I worked on Bill Clinton's campaign. I've made political signs. If there is a beef on the waterfront, boom, I'm there. SO the only opportunity I have keep in touch with my family Guadalupe Garza, Oiler Main­ tenance Gary FeurUtility — I tado. Able Joseph F. come to the Bodied Billotto, union hall. Seaman — Oiler Main­ I'm used to I go to Hon­ tenance it because duras on Utility —\ I've been vacation. work sailing so My wife around the long. I started in 1960. At the was down house and hall, I see friends, but very few there; now fool around old-timers are around anymore. she is in the United States. I with old By coming into the hall, I also visit relatives while I'm there. I cars. I do some mechanical keep in touch with politics in was bom in Honduras, but now work on old Chevys. I have my area. I'm a U.S. citizen. This makes a several projects around the big difference when I go back house that I work on, including because I am treated with more a swimming pool to take care respect. of. Also, I'm always involved in Jerome union affairs and union meet­ Smith, ings, even in my time off. Deck En­ gine Utility Ralph Moore, Recertified — I like to Bosun — Mauro de mess When I'm la Cerda, around with home, I do Recertified automobiles whatever Bosun — and On my time the union automobile sees fit that off, I try to repairs. Mostly, I work for stay busy I do. Other jeople I know. I work on all around the than that, I ypes of cars doing light repair house. It's just vaca(Asked of SIU members in the port of Houston.) Juaf tife ^amtx One of the features of the December LOG that has been extremely well received over the past three years is the inclusion o holiday greetings. Active and retired Seafarers—as well as their family members—are invited to send their greetings to friends, ship­ mates and loved ones through the pages of the LOG. The procedure is simple. In 25 words or less (and in your neatest PRINTING possible), write the message ih the space provider below. All (legible) greetings tha are written in the holiday spirit unl be included in the December 1994 issue of the Seafarers LOG, if they are received in time. The LOG reserves the right to print one greeting per sender. Others will be run only if space permits. The deadline for receipt of the holiday messages is Monday, November 14, 1994. Send them by mail to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. After November 1, facsimile copies will be accepted. The fax num­ ber is (301) 702-4407. Forms also may be filled out in any union hall and turned in to the offi­ cial at the counter—or may be given to the boarding patroman at a vessel's payoff. Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The conditions under which an SIU mem­ employment and as members of the constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, ber works and lives aboard a ship or SIU. TTiese rights are clearly set forth Lakes and Inland Waters District boat Members should know their con- in the SIU constitution and in the (PLEASE PRINT OR TYPE) makes specific provision for 1 tract rights, as well as thdr obligations, contracts which the union has safeguarding the membership's ! such as filing for ovCTturre (OT) on the negotiated with the employers. Con­ money and union finances. The con­ i pn^rer sheets and in dre proper manner. sequently, no member may be dis­ stitution requires a detailed audit by If, at any time, a irrembCT believes that criminated against because of race, To: certified public accountants every year^ an SIU patndman mother union official creed, color, sex, national or which is tobe submitted to the monnber- fails to fHotect flidr contractual ri^ts geographic origin. If any member From: ship by the secretaiy-treasurer. A yearly ptrqreriy, he or she should contact the feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, Message: finance committee of rank-and-file nearest SIU port agent EDITORIAL POLICY — THE the member should notify union members, elected by the member­ ship, each year examines the finances SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers headquarters. of the union and reports fully their LOG traditionally has refrained from SEAFARERS POLITICAL findings and recommendations. publishing any article serving the politi­ ACTIVITY DONATION — Members of this committee may cal purposes of any individual in the SPAD. SPAD is a separate make dissenting reports, specific union, pffico: or nrember. It also has segregated fund. Its proceeds are used recommendations and separate find­ refrained from publishing articles to further its objects and purposes deenred harmful to the union OT its col­ including, but not limited to, further­ ings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds lective manbership. This established ing the political, social and economic of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and policy has been reaffirmed by membCT- interests of maritime workers, the Inland Waters District are ad­ ship action at the S^tember 1960 preservation and furthering of the ministered in accordance with the meetings in all constitutional ports. American merchant marine with im­ provisions of various trust fund The responsibility for Seafarers LOG proved employment opportunities for agreements. All these agreements policy is vested in an editorial board seamen and boatmen and the advan­ specify that the trustees in charge of which consists of the executive board cement of trade union concepts. In these funds shall equally consist of of the union. The executive board connection with such objects, SPAD union and management repre­ may delegate, from among its ranks, supports and contributes to political sentatives and their alternates. All ex­ one individual to carry out this candidates for elective office. All penditures and disbursements of trust responsibility. contributions are voluntary. No con­ PAYMENT OF MONIES. No tribution may be solicited or received funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust nwnies are to be paid to anyone in any because of force, job discrimination, fund financial records are available at official capacity in the SIU unless an financial reprisal, or threat of such the headquarters of the various trust official union receipt is given for same. conduct, or as a condition of member­ funds. Under no circumstarrees should any ship in the union or of employment. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A nrember pay any money for any reason If a contribution is made by reason of member's shipping rights and unless he is given such receipt. In the the above improper conduct, the seniority are protected exclusively by event anyone attempts to require any member should notify the Seafarers contracts between the union and the such payimnt be ma^ without supply­ International Union or SPAD by cer­ employers. Members should get to ing a receipt, or if a member is r^uir^ tified mail within 30 days of the con­ know their shipping rights. Copies of to make a payment and is given an tribution for investigation and these contracts are posted and avail­ official receipt, but feels that he or she appropriate action and refund, if in­ able in all union halls. If members should not have been required to make voluntary. A member should sup­ believe there have been violations of such pajrment, this should immediately port SPAD to protect and further his their shipping or seniority rights as con­ be reported to union headquarters. or her economic, political and so­ CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS cial interests, and American trade tained in tire contracts between the' union and the employers, they should AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of union concepts. notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by the SIU constitution are available in all If at any time a member feels that certified mail, return receipt requested. union halls. All members should obtain any of the above rights have been copies of this constitution so as to violated, or that he or she has been The proper address for this is: familiarize themselves with its con­ denied the constitutional right of ac­ Check the block which describes your status with the SIU: Augustin Tellez, Chairman tents. Any time a nrember feels any cess to union records or information, n Active Seafarer Seafarers Appeals Board • Family Member of Active Seafarer othCT nremberor officer is attempting to the member should immediately 5201 Auth Way deprive him or her of any constitutional notify SIU President Michael Sacco • Retired Seafarer • Family Member of Retired Seafarer Camp Springs, MD 20746 ri^t or obligation by any methods, at headquarters by certified mail, FuU copies of contracts as referred such as dealing with charges, trials etc., to are available to nrembers at all tirrres, as well as all other details, the member return receipt requested. The ad­ either by writing directly to the union or so affected should immediately notify dress is: Send your greeting to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Michael Sacco, President to the Sharers Appeals Board. Springs, MD 20746. The gr^ing should be received at the LOG headquarters. Seafarers Intemational Union CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU office by Monday, November 14,1994. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members 5201 Auth Way contracts are available in all SIU haUs. are guaranteed equal rights in 9/94 Camp Springs, MD 20746. These contracts specify the wages and Pnltbag presage ---/ m li �iri -.,. v^. v.*;.-,--- -<-.ij;^,.y,tr. • SEFTEMBER1994 SEAFARERSLOG Final Departures 1995 SIG Scholarships Continued from page 23 Piney Point, Md. after completing the Lundeberg School's training course for entry level seamen. Boatman Doran last Sailed as a tankerman. When Opportunity Knocks.... Open the Door RAYMOND L. BAXTER Pensioner Raymond L. Baxter, 61, passed away July 8. Bom in Texas, he began his sail­ ing career with the Seafarers in 1973 in the port of Norfolk, Va. He sailed in the engine department. Boatman Baxter started receiving his pension in Febmary 1994. RAYMOND L. GRIFFIN Pensioner Raymond L. Griffin, 73, passed away October 18, 1993. Bom in Alabama, he joined the Seafarers in 1962 in the port of New Orleans, sailing in the engine department. Boatman Grif­ fin was last employed aboard Dixie Carriers vessels. He served in the U.S. Army from 1941 to 1955. Boatman Griffin retired in August 1985. The cost of a college education continues to rise each year. But for Seafarers and their depend­ ents, help in realizing their educational goals is available in the form of scholarship awards from the Seafarers Sc^iolarship Program. So take ad­ vantage of this opportunity and open the door to the start of a new, more secure future—all it takes is completion of an application form. Ellglbllity As in past years, the union will offer seven scholarships in 1995. Four are set aside for the children and spouses of Seafarers. Each of these four scholarships is for $15,000 to be used at a four-year college or university. The other three are for Seafarers themselves. One of the awards is for $15,000 for use at a four-year institution of higher learning. The remaining two scholarships amount to $6,000 each and may be used for study at a community college or vocational school. Eligibility requirements for Seafarers and their spouses and unmarried dependent children are spelled out in a booklet which contains an application form. It is available by filling out and returning the coupon below to the Seafarers Wel­ fare Plan. exam is required by the college or trade school they plan to attend. (Tests must be taken by February 1995 to ensure the results will be avail­ able for inclusion in the scholarship application package.) Checklist Items that need to be included in the full application and postmarked by the deadline date ofAprill5,I995aTc: • Scholarship application • Autobiographical statement • Photograph • Certified copy of birth certificate • High school transcript and certification of graduation or official copy of high school equivalency scores • College transcript • Letters of reference • SAT or ACT results Remember, it will take time to gather all this information. Plan ahead to make sure everything will be collected in time. Some schools can be slow in handling transcript requests, so applicants should ask for them as soon as possible. Also, now is a good time for the applicant to start Deadlines thinking about who should be asked to write Completed applications with all necessary in­ letters of recommendation. formation included must be mailed and For More Information postmarked on or before April 15,1995. Ask for a 1995 Seafarers Scholarship Program The SAT and ACT exams are given ap­ proximately six times a year on specified dates. booklet at any SIU hall, or fill out the coupon Applicants should be sure to t^e whichever below and return it to the Seafarers Welfare Plan. I niease send me the 1995 SIU Scholarship Program booklet which contains eligibility informa I • tion, procedures for applying and the application form. Name Book Number. Address I City, State, Zip Code Telephone Number, I This application is for; D Self • Dependent Mail this completed form to Scholarship Program, Seafarers Welfare Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. 9/94 25 CHARLES MCCAIN Pensioner Charles Mc­ Cain, 80, died December 3, 1993. Bom in Florida, he joined the SIU in 1958 in the port of Houston. He sailed in the steward department. Boatman McCain began receiving his pension in April 1975. ROBERT C. TEABOUT SR. Pensioner Robert C. Teabout Sr., 71, passed away July 24. A native of North Carolina, he began sailing with the Seafarers in 1966 in the port of Norfolk, Va. as a member of the steward department. He served in the U.S. Army from 1941 to 1950. Boatman Teabout retired in Decem­ ber 1987. RAILROAD MARINE ANDREW CARCICH Pensioner Andrew Carcich, 82, died December 20, 1993. Bom in New York City, he joined the SIU in 1960 in the port of New York. Brother Carcich was employed by the Penn Central Transportation Co. He began receiving his pension in March 1978. FREDERICK C. HANSEN JR. Pensioner Frederick C. Hansen Jr., 80, died August 6. He began sailing with the SIU in the port of FRANK C. TIEDEMAN Philadelphia Pensioner in 1961, work­ Frank C. ing as a captain aboard McAllister Tiedeman, Brothers vessels from 1975 to 75, passed 1980. Boatman Hansen began away June 28. receiving his pension in December A native of 1980. New Jersey, RANDOLPH C. JONES he joined the SIU in 1963 Pensioner Randolph C. Jones, 82, in the port of passed away July 27. A native of Virginia, he joined the Seafarers in New York. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Tiedeman 1957 in the port of Baltimore. He served in the U.S. Army from sailed in the engine department 1941 to 1945. He retired in June Boatman Jones retired in Febmary 1979. 1975. Letters to the Editor 3-Day Coverage In LOG Irings Back Memories Later, I did make the voyage to Russia, without incident. The LOG'S coverage of the 50th Clarence (Bud) Cousins anniversary of D-Day, as well as Na­ BuUer, PA tional Maritime Day, brought to mind an interesting near-miss I exThanks to School }erienced during World War II. For Excellent Training I started sailing in 1944, and at one All of us here on the 1st Lt. Balmint had been assigned to a certain iberty ship, bound for who-knows- dotnero Lopez in the steward depart­ where. As I remember after all these ment would like to thank the Harry years, I had just filed aboard her, Lundeberg School and all depart­ signed on and discovered she was ment heads for the excellent training round for Miumansk when I was told in the culinary field. All of us [aboard the Lopez] at one to report back to the union hall in time or another have b^n to the Mew York. The dispatcher asked me if I would school for upgrading and training, mind taking five days' pay for my and for this reason, we truly have an trouble and filing off, since I had outstanding steward department. acidentally been signed on as one AB The food iand service on the Lopez too many (more than our agreement has been without discrepancies and at that time called for). Apparently, has been applauded by the entire there had been a new, young captain crew. I personally encourage anyone on board, and he had made an honest who has a chance to upgrade to do so. "Be all you can be." mistake. We on the Lopez would like to say Luckily, I agreed to quit the ship at thanks to the Harry Lundeberg tie dispatcher's request, because irom that time on, I never saw one of School and the SIU for all their sup­ iat crew again. (I retired in 1978.) I port. assume she went down with all Anthony M. Ferrara aboard, into the freezing seas on the Chief Steward 1st Lt. Baldomero Lopez way to Russia. J,:' . i.'L - • I �26 SEPTEMBER 1994 SEAFARERS LOG -*s V . Lundebeig School Graduating Classes • r\; Radar—Graduating from the radar course on July 28 are (from left), Frank Hedge, Casey Taylor (instructor), Richard Montalvo and Mark Lamara. • '"^-CA. Trainee Lifeboat Class 527—Graduating from trainee lifeboat class 527 are (from left, kneeling) Ben Cusic (instructor), Terry Gunderson, William Mathews Jr., Gian Smith, Luis Martinez, David Sharp, Richard Mossman, Scott Abramson, (second row) Nolane Purifoy, Joseph Canell II, Thomas Hawkins, Dennis Stephenson Jr., Scott Brown, Timothy A. Cohen, Brian Hulstrom, Craig S. Reid, Jerome Parrenas and Jason Smith. Diesel Engine—The July 15 graduates of the diesel engine class are (from left, front row) Alex J. Lottig, Oswald Bermeo, Thomas _ J. JO « ^ . . J ^ A X ^.1 1 . Keseru, (second row) Chris Beaton, Mark Striby, Raymona Gayton, Able Bodied Seaman—Certificates of completion were received by the August 11 class of j.c. Wieoman (instructor) and Gregory Eastwood, upgraders. They are (from left, kneeling) Michael Moore, James Strickland, Joseph R. Carmine, Clifford Blackmon, David Scott, Tom Gillian (instructor), (second row) Washin^on H. Williams Jr., Richard Gendaszek, David Deloach, Terry Johnson, Tom Graves, Chris Campos, Kevin George, (third row) Matthew Sandy, Nathaniel T. Jennings and Roger L. Jackson. A Reminder of What a Seafarer Needs When Admitted to the Schooi liilSS: .:«sr; When preparing to upgrade at the Seafarers Haii^ Lundeberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, Md., members are reminded to follow a few guidelines which will make their admission easier. Travel plans by upgraders should be final­ ized through their port agent no later than 10 days before the scheduled class starting date. Members should contact their union hall as soon as they receive the scheduling letter from the Lundeberg School. For those members driving to the facility and planning to park their vehicle on school property, upgraders must provide a valid driver's license, proof of insurance and vehicle registration when checking in. All upgraders are required to bring the fol­ lowing items at the time of admission: • Original certificates of discharge show­ ing sufficient seatime for the U.S. Coast Guard endorsement they are seeking; • Six passport size (2 by I V2 inches) photographs; • A valid merchant mariner document (zcard), Lundeberg School identification card and SlUiriembership book; • A completed physical examination form; and • A Seafarers Welfare Plan drug screen­ ing form, valid through the course test date. All galley gang members planning to upgrade must possess a lifeboat endorsement prior to entering the steward department upgrading class. If members have any questions or problems concerning upgrading at the Lundeberg School, they should contact their port agent or the school's admission office at (301) 9940010. Celestial Navigation—Completing the celestial navigation course on August 10 are (from left, front row) Michael McKnight, Victor Rosado, (second row) Charles Varney, Michael Hill, Brad Haines, (third row) Jim Brown (instructor), Stephen Votta and John F. Schmidt. Missing from photo is Raymond Marquis. Lundeberg School Admissions Checklist • • • • • • • Discharge certificates Six passport-size photos Merchant mariner document Lundeberg School ID SlU membership book Physical exam form Drug-free clearance Whep upgrading at the Lundeberg School, a Seafarer should have the above items on his or her person to provide to the admissions office. Bridge Management—Upgrading graduates of the August 10 bridge management class are (from left) Darrell E, Peterson, Casey Taylor (instructor), Raymond Snow, James W. Jones and Frank Hedge. A- �.. SEPTEMBER 1994 SEAFMERSIMI LUMDEBERG SCHOOL 1994 miRAOIHG COURSE SCHEOULE The following is the course schedule for classes beginning between September and December 1994 at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship located at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. All programs are geared to improve job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. Cbeck-In Date Course Assistant Cook, Cook and Baker "t' Course Completion Date Able Seaman September 9 October 21 All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. Bridge Management (Sbipbandling) October 21 November 4 Radar Certification September 16 October 14 September 23 October 21 Celestial Navigation September 9 October 21 Limited License, Part 1 September 26 October 7 Limited License, Part 2 October 10 October 21 Limited License, Part 3 October 24 November 4 Safety Specialty Courses Chief Cook, Chief Steward Completion Date Oil Spill Prevention and Containment October 21 October 28 Lifeboatman September 9 October? September 23 October 21 Basic/Advanced Fire Fighting September 16 November 25 September 30 December 9 Sealift Operations & Maintenance September s September 30 RecerUDcatlon Programs Course Cbeck-In Date Completion Date Bosun Recertification October 3 November? (Middle) (First) (Street) (Zip Code) (Stale) (City) Date of Birth. Telephone ( (Month/Day/Year) (Area Code) Deep Sea Member D Refrigerant Handling - EPA (Refrigeration Tech. Certification) FiremanAYatertender and Oiler Pumproom Maint & Operations Hydraulics Marine Electrical Maintenance Welding September 6 September 8 September 12 September 5 October 3 September 12 October 24 October 21 October 14 November 28 November 4 November 18 •mm 1994Adult EducaUon Schedule The following courses are available through the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School. Please contact the admissions office for enrollment information. Course Check-In Date CED Preparation 12 weeks - open-ended admission Completion Date Adult Basic Education (ABE) 6 weeks - open-ended admission •a.. Developmental Studies Septembers September 9 General EducaUon College Courses September 12 November 4 Session HI NOTICE TO SEAFARERS In order to better meet the future needs of SIU members, theSeafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship located at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education will be running a decreased class schedule during the months of November and December. During this time period, the school will be preparing additional classes based on new governmental regulations, upgrading present course materials and repairing and maintain­ ing classroom equipment. Instructors also will be attending advanced courses to enhance their knowledge and skills. The full 1995 class schedule, which will be ready in late fall, will be published in the Seafarers LOG as soon as it is released. Members with any questions may contact the school's admis­ sion office at (301) 994-0010. Firefighting:GYes GNO CPR: GYes GNO With this application, COPIES of your discharges must be submitted showing suffi­ cient time to qualify yourself forthe course(s) requested. You also must submit a COPY of each of the following: the first page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, your clinic card and the front and back of your z-card as well as your Lundeberg School identification card listing the course(s) you have taken and com­ pleted. The Admissions Office WILL NOT schedule you until all of the above are received Inland Waters Member D Lakes Member Q Completion Date Primary language spoken Name. Address Cbeck-In Date All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. • Yes • No UPGRAOING APPLKAmN (Last) Engine Upgrading Courses English as a Second Language (ESL) 6 weeks - open-ended admission Cbeck-In Date Course Completion Date Contact admissions office for starting dates Contact admissions office for starting dates Course Check-In Date 27 Steward Upgrading Courses The course schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the nation's security. Deck UpgnuUng Courses Orfs-^Vr BEGIN DATE COURSE END DATE If the following information is not fdled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security#. Book# Seniority Department U.S. Citizen: DVes • No • 'p ' ' • Home Port. Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held Rating: LAST VESSEL; Date On: Are you a graduate of the SHLSS trainee program? •Yes GNO If yes, class # Have you attended any SHLSS upgrading courses? If yes, course(s) taken ' • Yes Date Off: GNO Transportation will be paid in accordance witli the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. ' -' • -'i? ', V-.'-'' '••I L Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? RETURN COMPLETED APPLICATION TO: Lundeberg Upgrading Center, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674. 9/94 .... 'mm . i'*. ' • - i :i\ m-'-- �".)/K \ SEAEUCEMCS Volume 56, Number 9 /• ;'V^> .r'-- • The angle of dive of the free-fall lifeboat Is anywhere between 20 and 50 degrees (above) as it is launched from the Cape Holiday Greetings Via the LOG Where will you be in December for the holidays? Whether at sea or ashore, Seafarers can send holiday messages to their loved ones through the LOG. See page 24. September 1994 "It was quite a ride," said AB may be determined by the cir­ lowered and survivors from a James Souci, describing his cumstance and whether it is an distressed vessel come aboard. In both cases, all crewmembers first abandon ship drill from the emergency. are seated in individual, Cape Washington on a free-fal Two Launching Methods upholstered seats (with their lifeboat. backs to the launching direc­ The free-fall method is the The Cape Washington:, sta­ tion) and must be secured by a tioned in Guam as part of the quickest, one in which the boat U.S. military's prepositioning will become clear of the ship body harness seat-belt—^much fleet of vessels, has one of only immediately by means of a like in a race car—before a two such lifeboats on U.S.-flag hydraulic release. Strong winds launch can occur. Steering of vessels. The other is aboard the and heavy seas will not hamper the craft, once it is in the water, the effectiveness of the launch, is by a wheel at the stem. SlU-crewed Cape Wrath. Capt. T.W. Merrell of and if the craft should roll over, A review of other SlU-conAmsea, which operates the ves­ it will inunediately float to an tracted shipping companies sels for Maritime Ad- upright position. After launch­ revealed no immediate plans to ministratiaon (MarAd), told the ing, the boat's water-cooled convert the lifeboats on their Seafarers LOG that all the tests diesel engine can be started at vessels to the free-fall system. aboard both vessels have gone the surface. Also, Coast Guard ofricials This is the method AB Souci noted there are no plans for well. "We have had no problems so far with the crews adapting to and his fellow crewmembers mandating any such conver­ practiced. For Such training pur­ sions on U.S.-flag ships. these lifeboats," he added. poses, the launching height Specially Designed Boats must not exceed 20 meters and As part of the military's the angle of dive must be be­ prepositioning fleet of vessels, Before being purchased by many of which are managed and MarAd several years ago, both tween 20 and 50 degrees. the Cape Washington and the The other method is the more operated by private shipping Cape Wrath were car carriers raditional lowering. It takes companies and crewed by (formerly named the Hual more time, and steering clear of seafarers, the Cape Washington is Trader and the Hual the ship may be more difricult in kept fiilly operational throughout Transporter), owned by Hoegh leavy seas compared with the the year and is a vital part of the Line in Oslo, Norway. The free- free-fall method. This more military's strategy to get equip­ fall lifeboats were specially conventional method would ment to an area of potential con­ designed for these ships, and jrobably work better in a rescue flict in a very short period of during conversion by the operation in which the boat is time. Maritime Administration for use in the prepositioning fleet, AB Brian Redoute assists in the the lifeboats stayed aboard. recovery of the free-fall lifeboat. A free-fall lifeboat is one in With him are AB Joe Conlin and which the craft, with its full Chief Mate Michael Duiey. complement of persons and equipment on board, is hydraulically released and al­ lowed to fall into the sea without any restraining apparatus. The fully-enclosed, self-contained boats are common aboard European vessels. The U.S. Coast Guard maintains rigorous criteria to approve new concepts in life-saving apparatus and has given its full acceptance to the free-fall lifeboats. Like Souci, who sails from the port of San Francisco and who sent the LOG the photographs appearing on this page, all crewmembers aboard The National Center for when he was 14 years old, he the Cape Washington and Cape Wrath must practice using the Missing and Exploited has not been seen or heard free-fall lifeboats at least once Children has asked the from since and is considered Seafarers International at risk as lost, injured or eveiy six months. The fiberglass survival boats, Union to assist them in locat­ otherwise missing. The photo below has been agein which the hull and super­ ing Michael McCool. enhanced to show how the Last seen in Philadelphia structure are integrated into one unit and finished with an exter­ on June 28,1978 in the com­ 30-year-old man might ap­ nal coating im the color often pany of two adult males pear today. At the time of his disap­ described as 'international pearance, the brown-haired, orange,' are 10.5 meters long blue-eyed boy was 5 feet tall and 3.4 meters high, with a and weighed 1(X) pounds. He capacity of 40 persons—large has a scar near his right eye. enough to hold the entire crew of 31 aboard the Amsea vessels. Anyone having informa­ Each boat is powered by a 30 HP tion on the whereabouts of SAAB diesel engine. Two side Michael McCool should con­ hatches and one top hatch make tact the National Center for AB Justin Savage for easy access into and out Of Missing and Exploited (left) catches his the lifeboat. Children at (800) 843-5678 breath after serving There are two methods of or the Missing Persons Unit as the boat evacuating the boat from its car­ of the Philadelphia (Pa.) coxswain during rier: lowering or free-fall. The Police Department at (215) Michael McCool as he IS the abandon ship choice of launching method believed to look at age 30. drill. 685-1671. Help locate This Missing Person -r ^ •7 • � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 1990-1999 Description An account of the resource Volumes LII-LXI Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993; Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource September 1994 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES ITF CONGRESS HITS RUNAWAYS FAY RE-ELECTED VICE CHAIR OF ITF SEAFAERS’ SECTION U.S. SHIP BILL ON SENATE FALL AGENDA MARTIN MARIETTA TUG CREWS VOTE SEAFARERS BY 37-2 IN SHORT FALL SESSION, CONGRESS FACES HOST OF MARITIME BILLS HOUSE ACTION PROCEEDS ON U.S. CRUISE SHIP BILL KALLERAS RETIRES AS MSC CHIEF; QUAST ASSUMES NAVY COMMAND PATRIOT CREW AIDS STRANDED PERUVIAN FISHERMEN EFFORT UNDERWAY TO UPDATE INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING ACCORD SEAFARERS APPROVE 4-YEAR PACT WITH PENN MARITIME BOATMEN IN PORT ARTHUR KEEP UP-TO-DATE SHERIDAN CREWS RATIFY NEW THREE-YEAR AGREEMENT CRUISE SHIP SEAFARERS UPGRADE SKILLS IN ONBOARD CLASSES EPA-CERTIFIIED SEAFARERS HAVE SHIPPING PRIORITY SEAFARERS SAY PREPARATION IS KEY TO PASSING EPA EXAM SEAFARERS MARCH IN SUPPORT OF NIGERIAN UNIONISTS AFL-CIO MITCHELL BILL; HEALTH CARE REFORM IN JEOPARDY FRESH FISH MAKES PATRIOT HLIDAY AT SEA SPECIAL LIVING MEMORIAL TO WWII MARINERS TRIUMPHANTLY RETURNS FROM NORMANDY O’BRIEN CREW RECOUNTS COMMEMORATIVE VOYAGE AS ‘TRIP OF A LIFETIME’ WWII MERCHANT SHIP EVOKES MEMORIES, RESPECT FROM 3 GENERATIONS OF SEAFARERS Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 09/01/1994 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 56, No. 9 1994 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/85354b5c87c1c8443c17be0d6c4779e5.PDF a6c2587c497bea024f99be5748ef9229 PDF Text Text :':-'vXd:7, mnau. ORGAN OF THE SEAFARERS WTERNATIONAL UNION • ATIANTIC GULF, UKES ANDmNP WATERS DISTRia_*AF^ r-v' H. R. 4003 g-ams for certain maritime pro- i:'r 77 ;jj , - �• •; • .'^ .' • ; • 2 AUaiSTtiSi<t4 SEAFARERS LOG ..'J t.-t irl V Vlb'L.;/<. President's Report One Step Taken It will be up to the Senate to move the bill next. Indications are that the Senate in­ tends to move on this legislation quickly. We are hopeful this will be the case. But once The vote of the House of Representatives on a bill which preserves the U..S.-flag liner enacted, this is not the end of the road for the U.S. maritime industry. There is much industry leaves Senate action, a possible conference committee and the signature of the more to be done. Comprehensive, forward looking programs must be developed to president of the United States on a bill as the remaining steps before promote other segments of the U.S. merchant marine—dry bulk carriers, tankers, the nation has its first major piece of maritime legislation in close passenger ships and vessels in the domestic trades. to 20 years. It has been a long road. The House of Representatives bill that was adopted by a 294 to 122 vote to implement certain funding mechanisms to enisure a U.S.-flag liner fleet into the twenty-first century had its origins in a proposal first made in 1992. When Federico Pena took up the duties of the head of the Department of Transportation in early 1993, he made a program for the U.S.-flag merchant marine a top priority. Secretary Pena's commitment to the U.S. flag merchant marine has been unwavering over the past two Michael Sacco years and he should be commended for his determination to secure a new maritime program. Along with the crucial ingredient of administration backing, the effort had the un­ yielding support of the vast majority of representatives and senators who serve on com­ mittees with jurisdiction over the merchant marine. Under the leadership of Gerry Studds (D-Mass.), chairman of the House Merchant Marine and Fisheries Committee; Jack Fields (R-Texas), the committee's ranking minority member; William Lipinski (D111.), chairman of the House Merchant Marine Subcommittee; and Herbert Bateman (RVa.), the subcommittee's ranking rninority member, the Maritime Administration and Promotional Reform Act (H.R. 4003), as it came to be known, was kept on the front burner in a year when Congress had crime, health care and trade as its priorities. These congressmen not only did an excellent job in pressing for the bill's enactment this year, but they also brought together a broad base of support for the legislation. Remembering Paul Hail This month marks the anniversary of Paul Hall's birth. We in the Seafarers take time oiit this month to commemorate the man who was the SIU's top officer from 1947 until his death in 1980. His birthday, August 20, is a holiday under SIU collective bargaining agreements. In this year, which would have been his 80th birthday, it is worth talung a moment to reflect on his vision for a strong U.S. shipping capability with job oppor­ tunities for American seamen to serve the nation's economic and defense interests. Al­ though it has been 14 years since Hall died, his vision remains our vision. Being the Best—EPA Certification As president of this union, I often have the opportunity to talk about how Seafarers are the most highly qualified and proficient seamen in the world. The fact that so many Seafarers have enrolled in the Lundeberg School's courses leading toward certification as EPA-approved refrigeration technicians is proof that SIU members are committed to being the most qualified seamen around. When Seafarers in shipboard positions which handle refrigerants obtain feftigeration technician certification, SIU contracted com­ panies are assured that they will have prepared, competent crews that comply with federal regulations. For those Seafarers who have yet to attend a Lundeberg School refrigeration technician certification course at either one of the union halls or the school's center at Piney Point, Md., I would urge you to do so. Remaining the most qualified Seafarers is a good way to ensure your job security. Seafarers Recall Hall Legacy August 20 marks the 80th an­ ecutive officer of theSIU Atlantic he believed that knowledge was niversary of the birth of Paul Hall, and Gulf District He led the union the key to advancement. the man who served as the head through the general strike of 1947 In 1952, Hall established an of the SIU from 1947 until his when mariners won never before educational and training program death in 1980 and who profound­ achieved gains in wages and for SIU members. ly shaped and advanced the SIU. benefits. He spearheaded AeSIU's In 1967, the SIU's education This special day is acknowledged many organizing victories, includ­ program became the Seafarers each year by a contracted holiday ing tfiose with the most recalcitrant Harry Lundeberg School of for all SIU members (celebrated employers such as Isthmian lines Seamanship, located in Piney this year on August 22). and Cities Service tankers. Point, Md. Today, the school is Hall's concern for the seaman While forceful with com­ part of the Paul Hall Center for motivated his work throughout panies in behalf of Seafarers, Hall Maritime Training and Educa­ his career. Bosun Ralph Moore, was equally tion. who sails from the port of Hous­ demanding Hall's recognition of the key ton, remembers Hall from his of SIU role training would play in the job Paul Hall began his maritime career as a member of the engine days when he first began shipping members. security of seamen is a part of his department. He Is pictured standing, fifth from the left, with other in 1962. "He was president of the Gerald M. legacy most keenly felt by engine department members In 1938 aboard the Gateway City, a union, but more like father, Haliigan, a Seafarers. "One thing I truly Waterman ship which was one of the union's first contracted vessels. brother and friend to all of us. We deck departrespected about Paul was that he This photo was supplied to the LOGby Pensioner John A. Smith. knew he cared about our future m e n t saw the way the industry was and our welfare." Seafarer going and started the union's was doing and he stood behind all passage of the Merchant Marine Act of 1970. Hall, who was born in from the education program, now the Lun­ of us all ttie way." Hall became president of the Recalling Hall's tenacity, Alabama, began his seafaring port of New deberg School at Piney Point. If it Paul Hall career as a member of the engine Orleans, weren't for the school, the SIU Seafarers International Union of which was a key ingredient in the department before the SIU came who filed for wouldn't be around, in my North America upon the death of many successful legislative and into being. He had belonged to the his pension this year, remem­ opinion, because of the new Harry Lundeberg in 1957. Later organizational achievements of old International Seamen's bered when he met Hall after a modern technology in the in­ that year, he was elected president the SIU during Hall's tenure, of the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades OMU Guadalupe Garza noted, Union, but joined the SIU as a strike against Delta Line. "He dustry," said Bosun Moore. Another one of the Department (MTD). Under his "You could feel Paul Hall's charter member in 1938 in its ef­ came aboard our ships to make forts to improve the working con­ sure the company was living up to beneficiaries of the Lundeberg leadership, the MTD grew in authority when you were around ditions of American seamen and its end of the contract and to make School recounted his meeting membership from six to 43 him or with him." Garza, who to keep the East Coast seamen's sure we would live up to our end. with Hall. "As a trainee, I met unions. In 1962, he was elected to started with the SIU in 1960, A committed trade unionist. Paul Hall in the cafeteria at the the AFL-CIO Executive Council. remembered, "I shook his hand labor movement from being taken During Hall's tenure, the SIU once. I could tell he was different over by members of the Com­ Hall continually offered the ser­ Lundeberg School," stated Bosun munist Party, who had agendas vices of the SIU to workers in any Jini Dawson, who graduated from became a major force in the than other people. He walked dif­ other than seamen's concerns as kind of struggle, no matter their the entiy level program in 1974. political arena. Working closely ferently. You could feel the their focus. union. During this period, the SIU He really impressed me with what with the Nixon administration power coming from him. You Hall sailed in the 1930s and gained its reputation for coming he was doing for the union. He and key members of Congress, knew he was there and that he into World War 11 before coming to the aid of other labor unions. showed me that he knew what he the SIU assisted in securing the would make a difference." ashore for the union. In 1944, he Hall used the collective bar­ worked as a patrolman for the gaining process to further the port of Baltimore; He was elected security of Seafarers and their port agent for New York shortly families by establishing the thereafter. Seafarers Welfare, Pension and The man who built a small dent Michael Sacco upon the Hall's genius for strategy Vacation plans for the union's tug company into one of the death of Crowley. served the SIU well when he as­ membership. nation's leading shipping cor"His wide-ranging maritime Education was very important porations,Thomas B. Crowley interests and drive certainly gave sumed in 1947 the position of director of organizing for the to Hall. Although he only had eight Sr., died July 7 in San Francisco work opportunities to American Union and, next, as the chief ex- years of formal schooling, himself. following a battle with cancer. mariners. He will be missed." Today, Seafarers can be The chairman and chief execu­ tive officer of Crowley Maritime found working aboard Crowley Corporation, was 79 years old. American Transport deep sea August 1994 Volume 56. Number 8 The SIU has a long history of roll-on/roll-off vessels. working with Tom Crowley in Crowley tugboats and barges his many and varied efforts to sailing among the ports of S^an The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 0160-2047) is published expand his company's opera­ Juan, Jacksonville, Fla., Lake monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District; AFL-CIO; 5201 Charles, La. and Philadelphia; tions. Auth Way; Camp Springs, Md. 20746. Telephone (301) "The SIU had a long, ex­ and tugboats in Wilmington, Thomas B. Crowley Sr. was In­ 899-0675. Second-class postage paid at MSG Prince Geor­ tremely amicable and decent Calif, that handle docking strumental In turning Crowley ges, Md. 20790-9998 and at additional mailing olfices. relationship with Crowley operations as well as move Maritime from a local tug and launch service to a major U.S.POSTMASTER; Send address changes to the Seafarers Maritime Corporation thanks to bunker and derrick barges. Crowley worked for 61 years flag maritime Industry. LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, Md. 20746. the fairness, even-handedness and dedication to the American- in the company founded in 1892 Managing Editor,Daniel Duncan; Associate Editors, Jor­ flag merchant marine in which by his father. He took over from its origins as a tug and dan Biscardo and Corrina Christensen; Associate Thomas Crowley felt American rhanagement of the company launch company to the many Editor/Production, Deborah A Hirtes;. Art, Bill Brower; seafaring workers were an es­ when his father retired at age 75. maritime fields it presently unAdministrative Support, Jeanne Textor. sential part," noted SIU Presi­ Crowley took the company Continued on page 13 Shipping Visionary, Crowiey, Dies at 79 ' " •.r- t^§S^0fi: �AUGUST1994 SEAFARERS LOG 3 ' v i--v' By294-122, House BaiHcs U.S. Ship Plan fer • . .:"• '•: Maritime revitalization legis­ included funds in excess of the $1 lation cleared a major hurdle on billion requested by the ad­ August 2 when the House of Rep­ ministration. The committee ap­ resentatives approved a 10-year, proved a $1.7 billion, 10-year $1.35 billion program designed to program funded by a flat 53-cent provide for a U.S.-flag ship per ton duty that would have been operating program as well as to charged on the first annual 12 aid American shipbuiling. visits to U.S. ports from foreign The Maritime Administration destinations. and Promotional Reform Act H.R. 4003 was referred to the (H.R. 4003) goes to the Senate for Ways and Means Committee consideration following the 294before it went to the full House. 122 vote by the House. Senate Under the rules of the House, the action on the bill, which has the Ways and Means Committee backing of the Clinton ad­ must review any legislation that ministration, is expected to begin includes a tax increase. early this month. Last month, the Ways and "Today, the House voted to Means Committee significantly ensure that American flags con­ scaled back the funding and tinue to fly from vessels carrying Rep. Jack Fields (R-Texas), left, and Rep. Gerry Studds (D-Mass.) are two of the four co-sponsors of eliminated dollars for shipyards this nation's commerce," noted the maritime revitalization bill that passed in the House on August 2. They are pictured here in their roles after the world's shipbuilding na­ U.S. Representative Gerry Studds as floor chairmen during the August 2 debate on the bill. tions reached an agreement in (D-Mass.), the chairman of the principle to eliminate all shipyard House Merchant Marine and H.R. 4003 would be funded by a subsidies by the year 1999. The Fisheries Committee, after the flat 38-cent per ton duty collected on maritime revitalization legis by a 347 to 65 margin in Novem­ committee, headed by acting lation that began in May 1993. ber 1993. However, the legisla­ vote. from all vessels entering U.S. At that time, legislation outlin tion did not include any means for Chairman Sam Gibbons (D-Fla.), who has advocated the elimina­ Joining with him in praise of ports from foreign harbors. (Great ing a revitalization program was funding the program. tion of worldwide shipbuilding the House support for the legisla­ Lakes traffic between the U.S. and introduced in the House as H.R subsidies, believed funding for tion wasTransportation Secretary Canada is exempted.) The fee 2151 by Studds; Rep. Jack Fields Administration Support Federico Pefia, who called the bill would be collected on Ae first 25 (R-Texas), the ranlang minority In February 1994, Pefia an­ the shipyards was against the in­ "a milestone moment in our trips to an American port each year. member of the Merchant Marine nounced at the AFL-CIO ternational agreement. The Ways and Means Com­ nation's maritime history. I ap­ and Fisheries Committee; Rep Maritime Trades Department ex­ plaud Chairman Studds and the Expected to Raise $135 Million William Lipinski (D-111.), chair­ ecutive board meeting that the ad- mittee then substituted its own members of his committee for their Such a funding mechanism is man of the Merchant Marine Sub­ ministration would include funding language into H.R. 4003. bipartisan cooperation in moving expected to raise an average of committee; and Rep. Herbert funding for a 10-year, $1 billion The committee proposed raising this legislation and providing the $135 million a year from Fiscal Bateman (R-Va.), ranking program for the U.S.-flag mer­ $1.05 billion over a 10-year funding for the maritime revitSiza- Year 1995 to 2004. minority member of the subcom­ chant fleet. A month later, the period for 52 U.S.-flag merchant tion program." With the passage of H.R. mittee. plan took shape in the form of a ships by collecting a 22-cent per As approved by the House, 4003, the House completes work H.R. 2151 cleared the House bill, H.R. 4003. Pena as well as ton duty on the first 12 annual representatives from the visits, a penny-a-gallon tax on maritime industry spoke before commercial ship diesel and House and Senate committee residual fuel on vessels departing hearings on the legislation, for foreign ports and a $2 increase Jean Ingrao, who retired last ing the Labor Advisory Com­ designed to help fund a mini­ on the cruise tax on passengers. This funding formula, which year as the executive secretaiymittee for Trade Negotiations, mum of 52 U.S.-flag liner ves­ would have collected $1.05 bil­ treasurer of the AFL-ClO Occupational Safety and Health sels. lion over 10 years, was the pack­ Maritime Trades Department Committee, Organization and Originally, the program called age presented to the House for its (MTD), succumbed to cancer on Field Services Committee and for raising $100 million annually July 7. She was 63 years old. the ad hoc Committee on State by raising tonnage fees. For those consideration. When the bill came to the Ingrao became one of the first and Central Labor Councils. She ships arriving in a U.S. port from floor, Studds and Fields offered women ever elected to an also was a member of the Boy a nearby Western Hemisphere an amendment that would return officer's position when the Scouts of America's national foreign harbor, the fee would go the funding for H.R. 4003 to only labor advisory committee and from nine to 24 cents per MTD executive board in 1979 the changes in the amount col­ helped establish the Sea Scout registered ton. On those vessels voted her into the post she held lected as tonnage fees. program so young men and coming from other foreign ports, until her retirement last year. "H.R. 4003 will provide the women could learn more about the duty was scheduled to in­ "Jean Ingrao was truly dedi­ necessary new revenues to sup­ the maritime industry. cated to causes of the U.S.-flag crease from 27 to 71 cents per port the American maritime in­ She represented the labor registered ton. Fees would not be merchant marine and the dustry," Fields told his Jean Ingrao began her career in movement in the U.S. delegation collected after the first five visits American labor movement, colleagues. "We are talking about noted SIU President Michael the labor movement in 1950„retir- for the Law of the Sea negotia­ each year. supporting our national defense Sacco, who also serves as the ing in February 1993 after 43 tions and attended meetings of When H.R. 4003 emerged sealift needs with fiilly crewed years of dedicated service. the International Labor Or­ from the Merchant Marine and head of the MTD. "She worked ganization in Geneva, Switzer­ Fisheries Committee in May, it tirelessly throughout her life for Continued on page 8 in 1977 and gave her the land. working men and women. Her spirit and devotion will be authority to cany out the func­ After 43 years in the labor tions of the executive secretary- movement, she announced her missed." retirement in February 1993 Ingrao started her career in treasurer. Two years later, at the during the MTD executive board the labor movement in 1950 as a secretary in the office of Wil­ department's convention, she meeting. Frank Pecquex took The Senate Commerce, operating program as well as as­ liam Green, the president of the was elected the MTD executive over as executive secretary- Science and Transportation Com­ sistance to U.S. shipbuilding. As American Federation of Labor secretary-treasurer, becoming treasurer when her retirement be­ mittee, in the next several weeks, written the program would begin (AFL). She remained on the staff the first woman ever to be came effective in June. will meet to finalize the Maritime with Fiscal Year 1995, which of the president when George elected an officer in one of the Ingrao is survived by her hus­ Administration and Promotional starts October 1. Meany was elected to the posi­ AFL-CIO's constitutionally band, Leonard; two sons, Reform Act (H.R. 4003), which Initial plans from the commit­ tion upon the death of Green in mandated departments. Michael and Mark; and two passed the House 294-122 earlier tee indicate it would like to com­ 1952. While serving the MTD, In­ grandchildren, Christopher and this month. From this mark up plete work on H.R. 4003 early in In 1955, the Washington na­ grao also was a member of Katie. A funeral mass was held session, the bill goes to the Senate August and send the bill to the ffill tive was appointed the ad­ several AFL-ClO panels includ­ July 11 in Falls Church, Va. floor for a vote by the full Senate. body for debate and vote. The ministrative assistant for Peter Senator John Breaux (D-La.), Senate will recess in mid-August McGavin, who was working out chairman of the committee's and return after Labor Day. the details for the merger be­ Merchant Marine Subcommittee, Should the committee or ffill tween the AFL and the Congress ARITIt already has held several hearings Senate make any changes in H.R. of Industrial Organizations on the bill's main issue: the 4003 while passing Ae legisla­ (CIO). Five years later, Mc­ revitalization of the U.S.-flag tion, a conference committee Gavin was elected the executive merchant fleet. During those composed of House and Senate secretary-treasurer for the MTD. learings, he noted that he was in- members would be formed to Ingrao came to the department to erested in finding additional work out the differences. The con­ work with him on grassroots and finding sources to increase the ference committee could accept legislative efforts. number of vessels covered by the eidier the House or Senate vosion In 1975, McGavin died of egislation. or craft its own bill which would cancer. Ingrao took over many The Senate has withheld Work then be presented to both bodies f(xr of his duties, but the position of on its own bill to permit the House approvd or disapproval. executive secretary-treasuref :o finish its efforts. H.R. 4003 as If H.R. 4003 is passed by both remained vacant. The MTD ex­ MTD Executive Secretary-Treasurer Jean Ingrao joins with Vice passed on August 2 calls for a the House and Soiate, it will go to ecutive board appointed her as President William Zenga (left) and President Michael Sacco in 0-year, $1.35 billion program to the president for his signature, the department's administrator taking the oath of office during the department's 1991 convention. provide for a U.S.-flag ship which would make the bill a law. Ingrao Dies; Served MTD for 30 Years v...'. Senate Panel Expected to Mark Up Maritime Program Biii in August 1: • ;/' ,V • •. 1 TV'/; i •m •J �4 SEAFARERS LOG AUGUST 1994 CG Issues Rule on Proof of Ability to Pay for Spills The U.S. Coast Guard last toughest for the individua claimants. Many insurers object ships owned by the military and operator or one of its agents or month published an interim final operators—such as the tanker to this proviso; the Coast Guard is private ships bareboat-chartered employees. rule that spells out what types of companies that have contracts accepting comments until Sep­ by the military, also are exempt However, because the latter There is a phase-in schedule of provision can easily be broken proof vessel owners and with the SIU—because they are tember 29. compliance dates. Self-propelled and OPA '90 permits third-party operators must submit to the not attached to deep-pocketed Vessel Applicability tankers must comply by Decem­ claimants to sue insurers directly agency in order to demonstrate parent companies. The financial responsibility ber 28. The date for tank barges is (the direct action provision), their respective capacity to pay Proposed in '91 requirements are applicable to all July 1, 1995. Other vessels must many traditional providers of oil for costs and damages resulting First proposed three years ago, owners and operators of U.S. and comply when their existing cer­ pollution insurance are objecting from an oil spill or other hazard­ the interim rule fulfills require­ foreign-flag vessels of more than tificates of financial respon­ to the rule. ous material spill. The proof of ability to pay is ments for exhibiting increased 300 gross tons that use the waters sibility expire, beginning Insurers also contend that even demonstrated through certificates levels of financial responsibility of the exclusive economic zone December 28. in the event of an accident under of financial responsibility. The as called for by the Oil Pollution (which extends 200 nautical Insurers Balk which an operator's liability methods for establishing finan­ Act (CPA '90) and the Com­ miles off the U.S. coast) to tran­ limits were upheld by OPA '90, The rule requires vessel prehensive Environmental ship or lighter oil (whether cial responsibility include the actual cost of the spill could evidence of insurance, surety Response, Compensation and delivering or receiving) destined operators to establish evidence of exceed those limits. They argue bond, qualification as a self-in­ Liability Act (CERCLA). for a place subject to the jurisdic­ financial responsibility sufficient that the limits would be over­ to meet potential liability under Besides defining the methods tion of the United States. surer, guarantee and other turned in court, leaving them ex­ evidence. (A vessel operator may of establishing greater financial They also apply to all other CPA '90 and CERCLA. These posed to unlimited liability. establish financial responsibility responsibility, the rule identifies vessels using the navigable amounts range as high as $1,500 Penalties for non-compliance by any one or by any combination to whom the rule applies; lists the waters of the U.S. or any port per gross ton or $15 million, range from a civil penalty of up to schedule of compliance dates for whichever is greater. of these means.) subject to U.S. jurisdiction (since different types of vessels; and sets CPA '90 limits a vessel $25,000 per day under OPA '90, they carry bunkers which may be None of these procedures is operator's liability to the amount to a Class I administrative civil considered simple, and U.S. ves­ the penalties for violating the spilled). sel owners and operators current­ financial responsibility require­ Exceptions to the regulation of financial responsibility re­ penalty of up to $25,000 under are vessels that are lighter than quired to be shown, except in cer­ CERCLA, to a Class II ad­ ly are exploring whether or not ments. Moreover, as provided in CPA 300 gross tons and non-self- tain circumstances, such as gross ministrative civil penalty or judi­ these options are viable enough to enable them to comply with the '90, the rule establishes that in­ propelled barges that do not carry negligence or willful misconduct cial penalty of $25,000 per day of surers and other providers of oil as cargo or fuel and that do not or the violation of an applicable violation (or $75,000 per day for rule. The requirement of showing financial responsibility will be carry hazardous substances as federal safety, construction or second or subsequent violations) ability to pay huge sums is subject to direct action from cargo. Public vessels, including operating regulation by the under CERCLA. Health Care Oebate Hits Congressional Floors This Month Both houses of Congress are account the estimated bill-pad­ as part-time workers, the un­ coverage for any reason. cooperative could vary rates scheduled to begin what could be ding done by hospitals to com­ employed and the poor, would The Mitchell bill differs dras­ depending on a person's age. this year's next-to-last debates on pensate for care received by the have the same choices as those at tically from the Gephardt bill in Substitutes may be offered uninsured. large companies—either through terms of the employer mandate. It during debate in both the House health care reform August 9. Many lawmakers on Capitol the Federal Employees Health would not require employers to The two bills under considera­ Hill reportedly are; hopeful of Benefits Program, a new pay for their employees' in­ and Senate. Assuming each body tion were crafted separately by passes a bill, a House/Senate con­ the majority leaders in the House enacting a health care bill before Medicare plan known as Part C, surance until the year 2002, and ference committee then will forge and Senate, based on other bills this session ends in October. or state-run insurance purchasing then only if voluntary steps did a final version which is returned cooperatives. Elderly citizens not raise coverage to 95 percent which were reported out of the As for the specifics of the would continue in an expanded of all citizens. Even then, to each chamber for a vote. five committees which have juris­ employers only would pay 50 diction over health care legisla­ debate, the AFL-CIO, the Medicare program. Clinton Will Back The benefits package outlined percent of all their employees' American federation of national tion. Senate Bill in the Gephardt bill would cover health benefits. Middle-class families trade unions, has maintained that hospital bills and doctor bills, Employees at companies with During a nationally televised it will support a health care bill throughout the United States with an annual combined deduct­ fewer than 500 workers, as well press conference on .August 3, only if it provides comprehen­ both those with insurance ant ible of $500 per person or $750 as the unemployed and the poor without—have a major stake in sive, irrevocable coverage for all per family. It includes coverage would buy insurance from President Clinton said he believes these proceedings. The majority citizens (universal coverage), dis­ for pediatrics, pregn9ncy ser­ cooperatives to be established by that the 95 percent coverage goal of the almost 40 million unin­ tributes costs fairly, ensures cpst- vices, mental health care, a wide non-profit groups, states or local in the Mitchell bill ultimately sured citizens are full-time control measures and does not range of tests and long-term home governments. They also could would lead to universal coverage, workers (and their dependents) make any portion of health care. purchase the federal insurance "and I would sign it." benefits taxable income. whose employers do not provide The Gephardt bill also package. The bill also would ex­ The Gephardt bill more close­ health benefits. They and others specifies that a patient would pay pand Medicare. ly resembles the president's Will Employers Pay? 20 percent of prescription drug who are without coverage are left The Mitchell bill benefits original health care bill, the The federation supports the costs, with a separate deductible package includes doctor and Health Security Act, in that it only to hope that no one in their employer mandate (which would of $500 and an annual limit of hospital bills, prescription drugs, calls for immediate universal family suffers a major injury or require all employers to provide $1,000 for total prescription ex­ home health services and more. coverage and an 80-20 employer severe illness which may lead to their employees with health pense. Insurance companies could mandate. Clinton alluded to irreversible financial ruin. Finally, under the Gephardt not deny or drop coverage be­ favoring the Gephardt bill, but benefits) called for in the bill Insured Paying Cost drafted by House Majority plan, health insurance companies cause of illness. But health in- left no doubt that he would sign Many of those who have Leader Richard Gephardt (D- would not be permitted to deny surance firms participating in a the Mitchell bill. coverage, including Seafarers, Mo.). It is certain that neither repeatedly have made sacrifices Gephardt's bill nor the one in order to maintain their health As the Great Lakes sailing drafted by Senate Majority insurance. During the past season reaches its peak in August decade, while health care costs Leader George Mitchell IDand September, all SlU-contracted skyrocketed, workers routinely Maine) will be approved without Lakers have been broken out. were forced to choose between amendments. Among the issues The vessels—self-unloaders, wage increases or keeping their expected to be hotly debated are the employer mandate and other cement carriers, bulkers and benefits. tug/barges—have been busy They have paid not only for )ossible funding mechanisms, resupplying coal, iron ore, grain, their coverage, but also for treat­ the target percentage of stone, cement and other products ment received by uninsured Americans to be covered and the depleted during the harsh winter patients who cannot or do not pay content of the standard benefits of 1993-94. TTie ships also are their bills. Those unpaid in­ package itself. delivering goods to ensure these If a health care bill is enacted essential materials are available voices—including ones for emer­ gency-room care, the most into law, the benefits package it during the upcoming winter expensive form of treatment- contains would be merely a min­ season when the Lakers are The SlU-crewed Charles Wilson offloads iron ore in the port of translate into higher premiums imum set of coverages to be made forced into safe harbors. Ashtabula, Ohio while a freight train waits to transport it to a steel mill. Seafarers have been sailing and higher fees for the insured. available to all citizens. But it In another example of this type would not necessarily replace the steadily for several months after mum of layups for SlU-crewed panies that operate on the Great of cost-shifting, a study by die benefits currently enjoyed by they finally were able to report to vessels, noted Byron Kelley, the Lakes, attributes the backlog National Association of those who already have health their vessels in late March and union's vice president for the created by the winter and growing April. Many shipping companies Great Lakes and inland waters. industry needs as the reasons for Manufacturers concluded that coverage. The Gephardt bill would re­ were forced to delay this spring's U.S. companies that offer health The Lakes Carriers' Associa­ all the ships to be in service. benefits to their employees pay quire businesses to pay at least 80 fitout because of severe icing on tion has announced that for the Most Great Lakes vessels more than $26 billion a year to lercent of all of their employees' Lakes left over from the area's first time since the late 1970s, all traditionally sail into December cover spouses who work a( busi­ lealth care insurance premiums. harshest winter in 16 years. self-unloaders in the U.S.-flag and early January before ice for­ Once they did get the ships out of fleet are operating. nesses that do not provide Companies with fewer than 1(X) mations in the harbors and on the coverage. The figure rose to al­ employees would receive tax sub­ layup, wwk has been non-stop for The association, which repre­ lakes force them into port until most $37 billion when taking into sidies, and workers there, as well the crews. Thae has been a mini- sents U.S.-flag shipping com­ spring. All SlU-Contradml Lakers Are at Work �.-^ m AUGUST1994 SEAFARERS LOG 5 For Refrigeration Certification 20 Courses Ojvefi To Seahnrs Instructors from the Paul Hall the EPA exam, which is divided Center are scheduled toconduct the into four parts. Lundeberg School's new, intensive The first 25 questions are basic Environmental Protection Agency and general. The next 25 refer to (EPA)-approved refrigeration small appliances. Passing these technician certification course this sections leads to a Type I cer­ month at the SIU halls in Jackson­ tification. The next 25 questions ville, Fla., Mobile, Ala., New Or­ cover high-pressure refrigerants. leans and Houston. Passing this section and the core QMEDs, electricians, part of the test leads to Type II refrigeration engineers, junior en­ certification. gineers and anyone else involved The final 25 questions concern in the repair and servicing of low-pressure refrigerants. If a stu­ QMED Charles Pomraning (who, through his t-shirt, displays the philosophy that brought about the regulation aimed at reducing ozone-depleting agents) listens to Instructor Eric Malzkuhn explain the work refrigeration equipment and air dent passes this section and the of a refrigerant recovery unit during the EPA refrigeration technician certification course in Baltimore last month. conditioning systems must be core questions, he or she earns certified to do so by the U.S. Type III certification. government by November 14. Anyone who passes all four Passing the refrigeration tech­ nician course will result in SIU Commonly asked ques­ members obtaining the required tions about how the new EPA rule affects Seafarers certification. In order to aid Seafarers in are answered on page 6. After November l4, seamen Whereas, The EPA, on May 14, gineer or other position which car­ earning the certification—manwho hold refrigeration technician 1993, published in the Federa ries duties of handling dated by regulations implement­ sections earns what is known as a certifications recognized by the Register regulations that imple refrigerants, holding an EP/ ing the 1990 amendments to the Universal certification. Environmental Protection Agency mented Section 608 of Title Vi Refrigeration Technician Cer­ Clean Air Act—the Lundeberg The SIU encourages all (EPA) will be given priority within (Vol. 58, No. 92) and included in tification of Type I and Type II. School last month announced a QMEDs to test for Universal cer­ his or her class of seniority for al the Code of Federal Regulations Be It Resolved, After November nationwide schedule for the tification. At minimum, most QMED, electrician, refrigeration as 40 CFR Part 82. Section 608 14, 1994, priority will be given to refrigeration technician certifica­ Seafarers who handle refrigerants and junior engineer jobs, the establishes guidelines for han­ any Seafarer shipping in the tion course. The first on-site clas­ will need Type I and Type II cer­ Seafarers Appeals Board (SAB dling and then eliminating CFC- capacity of QMED any rating. ses took place in early Jiily at the tification (galley equipment is announced early this month. based refrigerants in stationary Junior Engineer, Electrician, Baltimore SIU hall (see separate covered under Type I and ships' The action of the SAB, which refrigeration and air-conditioning Refrigeration Engineer or other story on page 10). Many other stores systems are covered under is made up of an equal number of systems. Among the provisions oj position which carries duties of ports also are scheduled to host Type II). Seafarers who work union and employer repre­ the EPA's regulations is the desig­ handling refrigerants who is as­ the classes, the last of which will aboard cruise ships should seek sentatives, ensures that Seafarers nation of refrigerant technicians, suming a job on a passenger ship, take place during the first week of Universal certification, because remain the most qualified seamen defined as any individual who per­ or other vessels designated by the December, in St. Louis. (See passenger ships are likely to use in the world, meeting all the neces­ forms maintenance, service or SIU which utilize low pressure schedule below.) low-pressure refrigerants. sary government requirements. repair on equipment using certain refrigerants, holding an EPA There is no limit to the number The refrigeration technician Shipping companies that are sig­ ozone-depleting substances, such Refrigeration Technician Cer­ certification course also is avail­ of times a person may take the tification of Type Universal. natories to a collective bargaining as CFCs, into the air. test, so different certification's Whereas, The EPA technician Be It Resolved, Any Seafarer able as a mandatory part of all may be earned at different times. agreement with the Seafarers In­ engine department upgrading ternational Union (SIU) are as­ requirement calls for all in­ who misses the EPA certification courses at the Paul Hall Center in Rationale for Regs sured compliance with EPA dividuals with duties that require deadline of November 14, 1994, Piney Point, Md. The Clean Air Act amendments regulations. Violations of the the opening of refrigeration sys­ because he or she is on a vessel at After November 14, Seafarers that were announced in May 1993 EPA's regulations that are aimed tems to be certified by the agency the time, will be required to obtain who sail in shipboard ratings that were developed so that the United his or her certification at the ear­ at reducing the release of by November 14, 1994. handle refrigerants and who have States would reduce and then phase Whereas, The EPA technician liest available possible date after chloroflourocarbons (CFC) into an EPA certification card will be out the use of chloroflourocarbons the atmosphere, including the re­ requirement calls for all tech­ disembarking from that ship. given priority within their class of (CFCs) because of their link to Be It Resolved, Article IX Ship­ quirement that individuals han­ nicians to maintain a copy of their seniority rating. dling refrigerants be certified, can technician certification card at ping Rules Rule 5 Preference and depleting the atmosphere's ozone be quite costly. A company can be their place of employment after Priorities A 5 shall be amended by Four-Part Test layer. Refrigeration and air con­ adding new paragraphs(d) and (e) fined $25,000 if found violating November 14,1994. The Lundeberg School's two- ditioning systems often use CFCWhereas, On SIU-contracted which shall read as follows. these regulations. day course prepares students for based refrigerants. (d) Within each class of The action, no. 374 , calls for ships. Seafarers who are rated as QMEDs any rating; QMED QMED's l-2-3-or-4. Junior En­ seniority rating in the Engine 1994 REFRIGERATION TECHNICIAN electricians; chief electricians; gineers, Electricians, Refrigera­ Department, priority for the job of COURSE SCHEDULE second electricians; chief, first, tion Engineers and others in the QMED any rating, QMED second and third refrigeration normal course of their shipboard Electrician, Chief Electrician, DATE LOCATION DAY (reefer) engineers; engine utility duties handle refrigerants in gal­ Second Electrician, Chief, 1st, reefer maintenance men; ley equipment and ships' stores 2nd, and 3rd Reefer Engineer, En­ Jacksonville, Fla Tue.-Wed. Aug. 9-10 gine Utility Reefer Maintenance, electrician/reefer maintenance high pressure systems. Jacksonville, Ra Thu.-Fri. Aug. 11-12 Whereas, On SlU-contracted Electrician/Reefer Maintenance men and unlicensed junior en­ Mobile, Ala. Aug. 16-17 Tue.-Wed. passenger ships. Seafarers who and Unlicensed Jr. Engineer will gineers to be given, within their Mobile, Ala. Aug. 18-19 Thu.-Frl. class of seniority rating, priority are rated as QMED's l-2-3-or-4. be given to those seamen possess­ New Orieans Aug. 23-24 Tue.-Wed. for shipping if they hold the Junior Engineers, Electricians, ing a valid Type 1 or 11 EPA New Orieans Aug. 25-26 Thu.-Fri. refrigeration technician certifica­ Refrigeration Engineers and Refrigeration Technician Cer­ others in the normal course of their tification card. Such card must be * Houston tion. Aug. 29-30 Mon.-Tue. shown to the union port agent or shipboard duties handle both low Houston Aug. 31-Sept. 1 Wed.-Thu. To prepare Seafarers for the refrigeration technician certifica­ pressure and high pressure his designee at the time a Seafarer Piney Point, Md. Sept. 7-8 Wed. Thu. tion test, the Paul Hall Center's refrigerants and small appliances. is clearing the hall to ship. Norfolk, Va. Sept. 13-14 Tue.-Wed, (e) Within each class of Whereas, The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School has been con­ Norfolk, Va. Sept. 15-16 Thu.-Fri. ducting two-day courses at its cen­ Lundeberg School of Seamanship seniority rating in the Engine Wilmington, Calif. Sept. 27-28 Tue.-Wed. Department, priority for the job of ter in Piney Point, Md. and at SIU at the Paul Hall Center for QMED any rating, QMED Wilmington, Calif. Sept. 29-30 Thu.-Fri. lalls around the country. The full Maritime Training and Education Electrician, Chief Electrician, San Francisco* Oct. 3-4 Mon.-Tue. has taken the following steps to text of the SAB action follows. assist Seafarers to obtain their Second Electrician, Chief, 1st, San Francisco* Oct. 5-6 Wed.-Thu. Seafarers Appeals Board EPA Refrigeration Technician 2nd, and 3rd Reefer Engineer, En­ Seattle Tue.-Wed. Oct. 11-12 Action No. 374 certification: Establishing the gine Utility Reefer Maintenance, Seattle Oct. 13-14 Thu.-Fri. The Seafarers Appeals Board facility as an EPA testing site, es­ Electrician/Reefer Maintenance Honolulu Oct. 19-20 Wed.-Thu. acting under and pursuant to the tablishing SIU halls around the and Unlicensed Jr. Engineer for a Honolulu Oct. 21-22 Fri.-Sat. Collective Bargaining Agreement country as EPA testing sites, tassenger or other vessel requir­ Port Everglades, Ra. Nov. 8-9 Tue.-Wed. jetween the Union and the various having Lundeberg School instruc­ ing a Universal certificate will be possessing given to those seamen Port Everglades, Fla. Nov. 10-11 Thu.-Fri. tors become qualified as teachers Contracted Employers, hereby a valid Universal Type EPA of courses to prepare students for San Juan, P.P. Nov. 16-17 Wed.-Thu. takes the following action: Refrigeration Technician Cer­ the EPA exam. Whereas, The U.S. government San Juan, P.P. Nov. 18-19 Fri.-Sat. Now Therefore Be It Resolved, tification card. Such card must be has charged the Environmental Algonac, Mich. Nov. 29-30 Tue.-Wed. to the union port agent or Protection Agency (EPA) with the After November 14,1994, priority shown Dec. 1-2 Duluth, Minn. Thu.-Fri. responsibility of promulgating will be given to any Seafarer ship­ his designee at the time a Seafarer St. Louis Dec. 6-7 Tue.-Wed. rules and enforcing the intent of ping in the capacity of QMED any is clearing the hall to ship. C^These dates difler from previously published dates fmr San Irancisco. the Clean Air Act Amendments of rating. Junior Engineer, dates {Niblished here are correct.) Date: August 1, 1994 Electrician, Refrigeration En­ 1990. SAB: Refrigeration Techs to Be Given Priority for Certain Engine Positions J i ^ -y-P': .. • i .: ll • '• .'i't;/.. ; •' -•'^4 M-' 'M: •M' �6 AUGUST1994 SEAFARERS LOG Q&A: How the New EPA Rule Affects Seamen •<,'•••'• V.'.v'"!!-- '• •-f - •' . '"." i .. " ' " • •• • deberg School strongly recommend that sels, Type 1/Type 11 certifications will be dividuals who handle refrigerants hold The Seafarers International Union [SIU) and the Lundeberg School of necessary. Certain other ships, particular­ Seafarers purchase the textbook for the an EPA certification, the Lundeberg Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for course between one month and two ly passenger vessels, may require all School did an assessment to determine Maritime Training and Education have em­ how the regulation would impact weeks in advance of taking the class. levels of certification—Type 1, Type 11 barked on a program to aid Seafarers in This study aid, entitled "Refrigerants and seamen. The school reviewed shipboard and Type 111. If an individual holds all obtaining their refrigeration technician the Environment," walks a Seafarer three types, he or she is said to have a jobs and equipment and surveyed the ex­ certification, which by November 14 will through all facets of the refrigeration tent of refrigerant handling in shipping. Universal certification. be required of any individual who handles technician certification. If a Seafarer Because certain shipboard jobs on Once it was determined that seamen refrigerants. reads this book and does the exercises passenger ships and other vessels with in certain shipboard positions would be What follows, in a question and answer after each chapter, he or she will be able centrifugal air conditioning systems will subject to the regulation, the Lundeberg format, is information for Seafarers on the to make the most out of the class. Even require individuals with Universal cer­ School applied with the EPA to be desig­ regulation that requires that individuals tification, the for Seafarers who take the course, there SIU encourages all of its nated as a testing and training center for who work with refrigerants be certified. is a direct correlation between reading members who handle refrigerants to seek the refrigeration technician certification Discussed below are how the regulation af­ the book in advance and passing the test, Universal certification. However, for course and exam. The Lundeberg School fects Seafarers and the training program says a Lundeberg instructor conducting most shipboard jobs on cargo vessels, also sought designation of every SIU available to SIU members to prepare for the classes. only Type 1/Type 11 certification will be hall in the country as a testing site. The the refrigeration technician certification necessary. EPA approved the Lundeberg School test. How does a Seafarer obtain the and the union halls as testing sites and What are Type I, Type II, Type III and book "Refrigerants and the Environ­ Why did the EPA establish the also certified its course. The Lundeberg Universal levels of refrigeration ment?" refrigeration technician certificaSchool also is approved to proctor the technician certification? I? Seafarers can purchase the book at union tion? exam. halls or by ordering it Ifom the Lun­ The EPA designates four levels of cer­ After many scientific studies showing deberg School. The cost of "Refrigerants tification. Type 1 covers work on What distinguishes the Lundeberg that chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) con­ and the Environment" is $25.00. To refrigerants used in small appliances. An School's refrigeration technician tributed to the depletion of the world's example of this kind of equipment on a order the book from the Lundeberg ozone layer, some 90 countries, in 1937, certification course from ones avail­ ship might be a cold storage unit in a gal­ School, mail a $25.00 check made out to ratified an agreement calling for steps to able commercially? The EPA has found that the Lundeberg the "Paul Hall Center" and send to EPA ley. Type 11 is for work with high-pres­ be taken to reduce the release of CFCs School's course has the highest pass rate Refrigeration Technician Course; Paul sure reMgerants which are used in into the atmosphere. among the many refrigeration technician Hall Center for Maritime Training and certain air conditioning systems or ship's The U.S. Congress responded by Education; P.O. Box 75; Piney Point, stores equipment. The third level. Type certification classes. TTie school's pass enacting the Clean Air Act Amendments rate is 85 percent. Other groups are MD 20674; ATT: J.C. Wiegman. Be 111, involves working with low-pressure of 1990. Title VI of those amendments, averaging 50 percent pass rates. The Lim- refrigerants. These are found in larger sure to indicate an address where the entitled "Stratospheric Ozone Protec­ deberg School's course is available to book should be sent. centrifugal air conditioning systems, tion," calls for phasing out the use of Seafarers at no charge. It also is open to such as diose used on passenger ships. products in the United States which emit Are there any other materials as­ other individuals who work with The fourth stage is called Universal, CFCs. sociated with the course? refrigerants, but those non-Seafarers meaning that it encompasses Type I, The governmental agency in the U.S. Yes. The Lundeberg School has must pay a fee. The Lundeberg School Type n and Type III. assigned to enforcing the intent of the developed a workbook which is used Clean Air Act Amendments, the EPA, is­ conducts the EPA approved exam direct­ Does the refrigeration technician during the course. The Seafarer keeps ly after its course. TTie school has a num­ certification exam reflect these dif­ sued regulations in May of 1993 that that workbook and can use it after the ber of classes set up this year to assist called for a series of steps to eliminate ferent levels? class if he or she is studying for another Seafarers in obtaining the certification the release of CFCs {Federal Register, Yes. The first 25 questions of the exam round of testing for any section of the by the date the regulation goes into ef­ Vol. 58, No. 92). Among its regulations, are basic and general. Everyone taking test he or she did not pass the first time fect, November 14. It also will hold clas­ the EPA called for the certification of all the test must pass this first section. The the exam was taken. ses after that date for Seafarers who waitt individuals who handle CFC-based second group of 25 questions is for Type Where and when are the Lundeberg to obtain the certification before ship­ refrigerants. I certification. Passing the gener^ sec­ School refrigeration courses taking ping again. tion and passing this portion of the test When does the regulation take ef­ place? If a Seafarer Is on a ship during the leads to Type I certification. The third fect? In August, the Lundeberg School will November 14 deadline, what should set of 25 questions covers high-pressure The EPA rule states that all individuals hold two-day courses in Jacksonville, he or she do? refrigerants. Passage of the first section who work with refrigerants must hold Fla.; Mobile, Ala.; New Orleans, La. and The Lundeberg School will be offering and this third set of questions results in the refrigeration technician certification Houston, Texas. In the month of Septem­ courses throughout the month of Decem­ Type n certification. The fourth set of 25 by November 14, 1994. ber, courses will be offered in Norfolk, ber at some of the union halls. (See questions deals with low-pressure Va. and Wilmington,Calif. October fea­ Who is affected by the ERA'S schedule of courses on page 5.) Also, the refrigerants. Getting a passing mark in refrigeration technician regulation? tures classes in San Francisco,Calif.; Lundeberg School will hold refrigeration this section, along with passing the first Seattle,Wash, and Honolulu, Hawaii. Any individual who handles CFC-based technician courses at its site in Piney Point set of general questions, leads to Type During November, the course will be refrigerants. For seamen, this includes eariy next year. That course also will be 111 certification. held at Port Everglades, Fla.; San Juan, all QMEDs, unlicensed junior engineers, >ait of any QMED upgrading program If an individual passes all four sec­ P.R. and Algonac, Mich. In December, all refrigeration ("reefer) engineers and leld at Piney Point A Seafarer can sign up tions of the test, he or she has earned Duluth, Minn, and St. Louis, Mo. will be all electricians. Any seaman who in the or any of the courses offered at the union Universal certification. the training sites. For a complete course of his or her duties works with halls. To attend the sessions at Piney Point, Is It possible to pass one set and schedule, consult page 5 of this edition refrigeration equipment or air condition­ a Seafarer should submit his or her applica­ fall another? of the Seafarers LOG. ing systems is required to hold an EPA tion through the customary admissions pro­ Yes. Not only is it possible to pass one Additionally, the Lundeberg School refrigeration technician certification. cedure. section and fail another set, but also it is will offer a course at Piney Point on Sep­ What if a Seafarer sails as a The union is asking that any in­ possible to pass more than one section tember 7 and 8 (with check-in on the pumpman? dividuals who cannot take the course and fail more than one section. For in­ 6th). The school will hold refrigeration While a pumpman's duties generally do and test before November 14, do so as stance, the test taker may pass the technician certification courses peri­ not require that he or she hold a refrigera­ quickly as possible thereafter. After general questions, the Type 1 questions, odically at Piney Point. For Seaf^arers . tion technician certification, the SIU en­ November 14, Seafarers who hold the but fail the Type II questions in the third upgrading their QMED ratings, the courages any member sailing in the refrigeration technician certification, set of 25 questions and the Type 111 ques­ refrigeration technician certification engine department to obtain the certifica­ who throw in for shipboard jobs with tions in the fourth set of 25 'questions. class will be included in their overall tion. In this way, should a pumpman sail refrigerant handling duties, will be given This person has earned a refngeration training program. as a QMED, he or she will meet the priority for those positions. technician certification Type 1. How does a Seafarer qualify for the proper qualifications. After November 14, will the refrlgeia- Can a Seafarer test again for a part Lundeberg School's refrigeration What are some of the refrigerants tion technician certification be he or she failed? technician course? routinely used on ships? necessary to register? The courses being held at union halls Yes. An individual can take any part of CFC-based refrigerants such as R-12 and Proof of holding the refrigeration tech­ the exam as many times as he or she around the country are open to any R-11 often are used on ship». To handle nician certification is not required at the chooses. It does not mean that an in­ Seafarer who handles rettgerants in his . these after November 14, an individual time a Seafarer registers for employment dividual has to retake the parts he or she or her current shipboard position. It also mu.st hold the EPA's refrigeration tech­ at a union hall. passed. For example, if a test taker is open to Seafarers who have reason to nician certification. The use of these sub­ After November 14, will the refrigera­ believe that they will one day be han­ passed the general section and the Type I stances will be prohibited after January tion technician certification be questions, and failed the Type 11 set of dling refrigerants. 1, 1996. Hydrochloroflourocarbon necessa^ to ship? questions and failed the Type 111 group, To attend a course at the Lundeberg (HCFC)-based refrigerants, such as RWhen bidding for jobs at the hall, a that person would not have to take the School in Piney Point, a Seafarer must 22, will be phased out by 2030. HCFCSeafarer with proof of the appropriate general section or Type I section of the meet the usual requirements for attend­ based substances have a longer level of refrigeration technician certifica­ test again. He or she could choose to ing the school. A Seafarer must apply for phase-out time as they do not break tion will be given priority within his or retest at the same time for Type 11 and a course at Piney Point through the down the ozone layer as rapidly as do her class of seniority rating for the jobs Type 111, or he or she could concentrate school's admissions office. CFC-based refrigerants. of QMED any rating; QMED electrician; on one section the next time around. How does a Seafarer sign up for a How does a Seafarer become an chief electrician; second electrician; How difficult Is the test for refrigera­ Lundeberg School course? EPA certified refrigeration tech­ chief, first, second and third reefer en­ tion technician certification at any To attend a course at a union hall, a nician? gineer; engine utility reefer main­ level? Seafarer should contact that hall and Refrigeration technician certification is tenance; and unlicensed junior engineer. Seafarers who have taken the exam, have his or her name added to the list of secured by taking an EPA approved test. Proof of holding the refrigeration report that it is a tough test. This is large­ course participants. He or she should The test is given by various organiza­ technician certification at the correct ly because, while a Seafarer may have leave a phone number as to where they tions certified by the EPA to do so. The leyel for the shipboard job will therefore used refiigerants and transferred them, he can be reached should there be any chan­ Lundeberg School is one of those or­ be necessary when throwing in for a job. or die may not know the regulations or the ges in the schedule. The Seafarer will ganizations. It also must be shown to the union port recent government requirements as to how have to make his or her own arrange­ agent or the person he designates at the How did the Lundet>erg School be­ the substance should be handled. ments for transportation and lodging. time a Seafarer clears the hall to ship. come certified by the EPA to con­ If a Seafarer intends to take the How can a Seafarer prepare to take duct testing for the refrigeration course at the Lundeberg School in Piney the refrigeration technician test? What level of refrigeration tech­ technician certification? Seafarers who have taken the test and nician should a Seafarer attain? After the EPA issued its regulations in Continued on page 10 the course instructors from the Lun­ For work on most SlU-contracted ves­ May of last year mandating that all in­ :h- • - • ' • , �AUGUST 1994 SEAFARERS LOG 7 Seafarers' Timely Response Saves Life ofAiton Man One reason why Seafarers constantly practice lifeboat drills is so that, in the event of an actual emergency, they will react swift­ ly and automatically. Perhaps that explains the businesslike attitude among SIU members on the Alton Belle II who last month saved the life of a local resident who apparently was about to drown in the Mississippi River. "We train for this every week," said Deckhand Bill Jack­ son, one of two Seafarers who crewed the rescue boat and pullec the victim to safety in the pre­ dawn hours of July 23. "When you're involved in a real rescue it just kind of comes to you. It' something that pu|s you to the test but we know how to handle it. Captain John Mosele agreed "This is positive proof that routine drills make our efforts ef­ fective in any situation," he said The Alton Belle II had more than 800 passengers on board and was cruising near the Alton, 111. Water Works when it received a distress call at 2:52 a.m. Mosele gave orders to launch a rescue boat, and the 16-foot craft was in the water two minutes later. "It was pitch-black outside," recalled Jackson, who was joined by fellow Deckhand Jeff New­ ton. "We used a spotlight, plus we had help from the Alton Police Department on the river bank." First Mate Mike Williamson spotted ah oncoming tow boat, then quickly halted dl river traf­ fic while the deckhands com­ menced their search. It took only 15 minutes to lo­ cate and rescue the victim, who was exhausted but seemingly otherwise unharmed. He was roughly 150 yards from shore. "We had a tough time pulling him on board, because he was so tired and soaked, plus he was fully clothed," said Jackson,'33, who added that neither he nor Newton ever had been involved in another rescue. "The undertow is swift, and if he had gone under .... Fortunately, we got there quickly enough that he was still there." Mosele commended Newton, Jackson and the rest of the crew for a quick and efficient response. He added that the struggling swimmer "was just about on his last legs when they got to him." After the rescue, the crewmembers learned of the unusual circumstances which precipitated the dangerous dive. A spokesman for the local fire and rescue department said the swimmer, a local man approximately 19 years old, was riding in a car wiA his girlfriend and another couple when he and the girlfriend got into an argument. The man repor­ tedly told the driver to pull over, then walked down the river bank and dove into the Mississippi. He was not injured, and no charges were filed against him. "But if it had gone on much longer, there would have been a b^y search," said the spokesman. "He wouldn't have made it" H. Creel and D. Won to Join FMC President Clinton last month serve a five-year term, while Clinton described both nominated Harold Creel and Del- Won will serve three years. Won nominees as having "the educa­ mond Won to serve on the would replace Francis Ivancie, tion, background and experience Federal Maritime Commission who has been serving on an ex^ we need to maintain the quality of (FMC). pired term. our Federal Maritime Commis­ Confirmation hearings were The SIU has worked closely sion, especially as we work to held on August 4 for boA Creel, with Creel in his capacity of make essential reforms in the From left, Deckhand Bill Jackson, Capt. John Mosele, Mate Mike who is counsel to the Senate Mer­ counsel to the Senate Merchant maritime industry." The regulatory agency is Williamson and Deckhand Jeff Newton helped save an Alton man who chant Marine Subcommittee, and Marine Subcommittee and urged for Won, a Hawaiian state offi­ President Clinton to back Creel chaired by Democrat William was trying to swim across the Mississippi River. cial. for the FMC post. Hathaway, formerly a senator Both nominees are Democrats Won has been a member of from Maine. The other members and are expected to be approved Hawaii's Land Use Commission are Joe Scroggins, a political in­ as commissioners. If and when since 1990. He also has held dependent who used to work as a they are, it would bring the five- management, government affairs, port official in Tampa, and member FMC to capacity for the planning and other positions at Republican Ming Hsu. first time since Clinton was sworn Honolulu-based shipping com­ No more than three members into office. panies, primarily Young Bros. Ltd. of the FMC may be of the same ITF Meets in Convention to Take Up Creel will be scheduled to and Hawaiian Tug & Barge Corp. party as the president. Issues Affecting Transport Workers The issues facing the world's transport workers will be the center of discussions at the convention of the International Transport Workers Federation (ITF), scheduled for August 4-11 in Geneva, Switzerland. Noting that workers in the maritime, rail, airline and vehicular sectors face rapidly changing technology, integrated transport struc­ A rare form of pneumonia tures such as intermodalism, and easy mobility of capit^, the ITF hopes to develop a series of initiatives to ensure that transport known as Legionnaires' disease has claimed Ae life of one man Workers have input on the future course of their industries. and has infected at least 10 others, The ITF, with which the SIU is affiliated, also will examine its all of were passengers last campaign to raise the standard of living of the world's seamen, monthwhom on the particularly those who work aboard runaway flag vessels. For many ship Horizon.runaway-flag cruise seamen working on ships under runaway registers—^which offer The U.S. Centers for Disease shipowners the use of the flag of the nation in exchange for a Control and Prevention (CDC) fee—conditions are substandard. The world federation of transport also is investigating 25 suspected unions intends to review how its campaign to aid seamen^ on cases of the disease among other runaway-flag vessels can be made increasingly effective. passengers. According to newspaper U.S. Trade Deficit Widens, reports, laboratory tests of Exports to Mexico Decline samples ifrom the Horizon water system revealed the presence of The U.S. this year is on pace to match its record $160 billion trade the bacteria that causes The runaway-flag cruise ship Horizon was drydocked In Baltimore deficit of 1987, and enactment of the North American Free Trade Legionnaires' disease, although after tests of the vessel's water system revealed the presence of the Agreement (NAFTA, now in effect between the U.S., Canada and no live viruses have been found. bacteria that causes Legionnaires' disease. Mexico) in January is contributing to that ignominious rate of move­ One unconfirmed theory is ment. that the contamination may have hospital, three weeks after em- called for stricter laws that would During the first quarter of 1994, the U.S. deficit with Canada spread through the ship's three barldng on a cruise aboard the make foreign-flag cruise ships increased by more than 50 percent, while America's previously whirlpool spas. But pinning down Horizon. He reportedly had been that operate from U.S. ports sub­ steady surplus with Mexico practically was eliminated. the exact source and cause may admitted with symptoms of ject to the same stringent regulaThe deficit with Canada rose to $1.1 billion in April, according to ake months. tions that govern U.S.-flag Legionnaires' disease. data from the U.S. Commerce Department. Meanwhile, the trade The Horizon is owned by Fan­ ships. The SIU for m^y years has surplus with Mexico dropped from $166 million in March to just $7 tasia Cruising of Greece, flies the million in April, as U.S. exports to that country declined by 13 lag of Liberia and is operated by percent. Celebrity Cruises of New York. Overall, during the first four months of this year, the combined The vessel, which recently was U.S. deficit in North America swelled to $3.2 billion, compared to cleared by the CDC to resume its $2 billion in the same period of 1993. normal weekly route from New York to Bermuda, was removed SIU members in the port of in case of a spill. SIU tankermen Senate Republicans Filibuster fom service on July 20 after tests San Juan, P.R. last month helped also were on hand in case the Workplace Fairness Legislation showed the presence of pull a grounded oil tanker to Mantinia needed to be lightened Last month, a Republican-led filibuster prevented a Senate vote egionnaires' bacteria in the safety without spilling any of the before the move. According to newspaper on a bill that would make it illegal for employere to "permanently vessel's water. The water system 13 million gallons of fuel oil the was treated with massive runaway-flag vessel was carry­ reports, the U.S. Coast Guard is replace" workers who are engaged in a lawful strike. investigating to determine the Supporters of the Workplace Fairness Act—including the AFL- amounts of Chlorine, then was ing. Seafarers aboard tugs operated cause of the grounding and CIO, President Clinton and a majority of congressmen and drydocked in Baltimore. After senators—fell a handful of votes short of the 60 needed to break the nrther inspection and testing, the by Crowley Maritime moved the whether or not there was ship went back into service earlier Greek-flagged, Liberian-owned negligence on the part of the filibuster and force a vote. this month, although the The bill twice has been approved by the House, and the president whirlpools remained closed on Mantinia safely into Guayanilla tanker's owners. The Mantinia is owned by Bay. The 749-foot ship had been has vowed to sign it if given the chance. the advice of health officials. Metro Freighting Corp. of grounded in sand. Lawmakers who back the measure indicated they would try to get Other SIU members were Liberia and operated by Nation­ A 68-year-old school bus it passed in the Senate later this year by attaching it to a bill that is driver from Long Island passed standing by with oil containment al Shipping and Trading of New strongly supported by Republicans. In that case, only a simple away on July 22 in a New York booms and skimming equipment York. majority would be needed for approval. Labor Briefs Source of Deadly Legionnaires' Disease Traced to Rnnaway-Fiag Cmise Sidp Seaforers Help Pull Runaway-Flag Tanker To SafMy Without Spillage ;f --sfi;' '- "r^ .,';V I '•!•' .. . - '•j t f ''' ' •' Y-'Y "CY/YY Y Y /YYY .- -y", Y'\'; Y:Y;Y. .:Y:Y4.'-;4)rY/;^ Yi*"-'-. ' .V:f: M' �•% • '•: 8 AUGUST 1994 SEAFMERSLOG m''' House Says Yes te U.S. SMps Continue4 from page 3 U.S.-flag ships; preserving the capability to be able to build and repair both warships for the Navy and commercial ships for domes­ tic and international trade; and assuring that our nation's international trade will not be­ come captive to foreign shipping interests who do not care about American businesses." Showing his support for the amendment was Rep. Gerald Kleczka (D-Wis.), a member of the Ways and Means Committee. After expressing his concern that shipbuilding should be included in any measure from the House, Kleczka said, "I think it is time to worry about American jobs and American indus^." The Studds-Fields amendment was approved by the House 268 • -••r. to 153. House members then cast their votes on the bill as amended. Like the vote for the amend­ ment, the total legislation received support from both sides of the aisle. "Passage of this bill will en­ sure that essential military equip­ ment is carried on U.S.-flag vessels and commercial vessels will be built in this country," Lipinski told his fellow members. Added Bateman, "It is not an overstatement to suggest that un­ less we fund H.R. 2151, which we overwhelmingly passed last year, the last American-flag vessel will disappear from the seas of the world. That is not a theory. That is a fact." "This country desperately needs this legislation," noted Rep. Joseph Moakley (D-Mass.), the chairman of the House Rules Committee. "We can no longer stand idly by and let our merchant fleet continue to decline toward a certain extinction." Progress of Maritime Revitalization Legislation DATE EVENT June 1992 Transportation Secretary Andrew Card presents Bush ortminietratinn'R m»ritima sevpn-year, administration's maritime oroposai proposal for 3 a seven-year, $1.1 billion program to Congress, which adjourns before either House or Senate acts on legislation. Transportation Secretary Federico Pefia meets with representatives from maritime labor, U.S.-flag ship­ ping companies and shipbuilders to discuss possible Clinton administration maritime program. Recalling that Congres passed a maritime bill while March 1993 America was at peace in 1936 Rep. James Quillen (R-Tenn.^ urged, "Let us do what Congress May 1993 did in 1936. Let us recognize the I<proQr3in. — ---TT— world is a dangerous place. Let us Fisheries Committee holds hearing in which the SIU reassure the American people and and other maritime labor unions announce support. purchase an insurance policy. Let June 1993 Sea-Land and APL seek permission to transfer 20 us maintain an American U.S.-flag vessels to foreign registry. maritime industry." At the request of maritime labor, House passes by 388 July 1993 to 41 a provision to prohibit any re-flagging requests Rep. Gerald Solomon (Rthrough the end of 1994. The language was an N.Y.) remembered how foreignamendment to the FY '94 MarAd funding bill. flag crews, who were being used August 1993 House Merchant Marine and Fisheries Committee because there were not enough clears H.R. 2151 for full House debate and vote. U.S.-flag ships available, November 1993 House passes H.R. 2151347-65. During floor debate, House also rejected by 309-109 margin an attack on refused to sail with American cargo preferem^ laws. Bill sent to Senate without militaty goods to Saudi Arabia funding mechanism. during the Persian Gulf war. Pefia announces administration will fund maritime February 1994 We cannot let that happen revitalization in 1995 fiscal year budget. again," he said. March 1994 . April 1994 May 1994 July1994 August 1994 Rep. Charles Andrews (D-N.C.) speaks in favor of maritime revitalization legislation before the full House. .• •-• O'Brien to Call On Eastern Perls Before Heading Home to San Fran Having completed a success­ ful European tour for the 50th an­ niversary of D-Day, the Liberty ship Verem/fl/i O'Brien in late July began its voyage from Le Havre, France back to its home port of San Francisco. Along the way, the World War U-era vessel is Scheduled to call on three East Coast ports. On August 6, the O 'Brien is slated to arrive in Portland, Maine, near where it was constructed in 1943. Later this month, it will make cdlls in Washington and in Jack­ sonville, Fla. Although the shipyard where the O'Brien was built no longer exists, the local shipyard society in Portland is conducting a fund­ raiser for the vessel. Approximately half of the crewmembers who made the voyage from the U.S. to France and England still are manning the ship. (Others signed on only for the return trip.) Many active and retired members of the Sailors' Union of the Pacific (SUP) and the Marine Firemen, Oilers and Watertenders (MFOW), both af­ filiates of the Seafarers Interna­ tional Union of North America, were and are among the O'Brien's crew. Several retirees from the Marine Cooks and Stewards, which merged with the SIU in 1978, also were on board. Literally millions of spectators viewed the ship during various ceremonies related to the D-Day commemoration. The lone repre­ sentative of the U.S. merchant marine, the O'Brien also was the ,/]oV ^ f''~ only one of the nearly 6,500 military and privately owned ships which were part of the Nor­ mandy invasion in 1944 and that returned for the 5()-year anniver­ sary activities. Bosun Recalls Events In early July, Bosun Rich Reed sent a letter to the SUP newspaper recounting some of the recent events that took place on the ship. Part of that letter is reprinted here, with permission: We are finally getting our ship back to ourselves. Things got pretty hectic and crowded on here during all the D-Day activities. It was a real exciting time with all the VIPs: the President and Mrs. Clinton, Lane KirklandoftheAFL-CIO, and Al Herberger ofMarAd. A lot of work went into the presidential visit. Myself and the deck gang spent many days work­ ing with the Secret Service in an­ ticipation of the arrival. Since we were at anchor when the President and First Lady boarded, we had to go over all the gangway gear and cargo gear used to raise and lower the gangway. The Secret Service is a real stickler for detail, so they were con­ cerned about the slightest little thing. The deck crew is to be com­ mended for the extra work in­ volved. June 6 fouhd us anchored off the Normandy beaches, while a mile away on shore the heads of state met for the ceremonies. At 1000 hours, members of the deck depart­ ment met on the stem. We observed a minute of silence and dropped a wreath in honor of merchant seamen and SUP brothers lost during World War 11. We spent a few days at the old Chatham Naval Yard near Rochester on Medway in England. .. From Chatham, we shifted up the Thames to London. We tied up alongside HMS Belfast in midstream, just up the river from Tower Bridge. From London, we sailed the English Channel to Cherbourg, France. Here we have participated in the events celebrating the 50th anniversary of the liberation of Cherbourg. The crew marched in a parade, and that afternoon we left our berth and anchored about a quarter-mile offshore, inside the breakwater. Here we simulated the offload­ ing of Liberty ship cargo into DUKUs (Ducks). This was a well-publicized event and was watched from ashore by more than 100,000people! (And we didn 't drop one food.') From Cherbourg we shifted to Rouen, where we will participate in the Armade de la Liberte, a tall ship festival that lasts a week and may draw up to three million people! So far, this entire voyage has been quite an adventure. We have had letters, greetings and press coverage from all over the world. However, without the help of the shipping companies, the maritime unions and lots of others, it could not have happened. Fraternally, Rich Reed, Bosun Pefia unveils funding mechanism for maritime revitalization. Studds, Fields, Lipinski and Bateman sponsor legislation, H.R. 4003, which calls for tonnage duties to be raised to fund 10-year, $1 billion effort to fir vessels. Maritime help fund up to 52 U.S.-flag finer labor announces support. House begins hearings. Senate starts hearings on maritime administration's maritime revitalization funding program. House Merchant Marine and Fisheries Committee passes H.R. 4003 as 10-year, $1.7 billion program to nelp both U.S.-flag merchant fleet and U.S. shipbuild­ ing. Bill goes to House Ways and Means Committee. Ways and Means removes shipbuilding component from H.R. 4003 and sends bill to full House as a 10-year, $1.05 billion program designed to aid U.S.flag vessels. House passes H.R. 4003 294-122 after amendingbill to include shipbuilding funds. Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation transporti Committee holds hear­ ings on 10-year, $1.35 billion legislation. OECD Pact Would End Shipbuilding Subsidies After five years of negotia­ tions, representatives from the United States and other ship­ building nations participating in the Organization for ^onomic Cooperation and Development (OECD) have reached an agree­ ment that would end vessel con­ struction subsidies worldwide. The pact between the U.S., the European Union (EU), Japan, Korea, Norway, Sweden and Fin­ land is scheduled to go into effect on January 1, 1996, but it still must be ratified formally by each country. Ratification could take place in mid-October, despite possible opposition by France. The other 11 nations of the EU support the agreement, which covers construction and repair of self-propelled seagoing vessels of 1(X) gross tons or more. The agreement's major ele­ ments are as follows: • It would eliminate virtually all government subsidies granted directly to shipbuilders, as well as government monies passed in­ directly through ship operators. • It would penalize nations for dumping domestically produced vessels. (Dumping means selling at less than fair market value, which would dis­ tort the world market.) • Jones Act domestic-build requirements would remain in­ tact, although the U.S. has agreed to take responsive measures if constructipn levels are found to significantly undermine the jalance of rights and respon­ sibilities under the agreement," according the pact's language. For the first three years of the agreement, construction of Jones- Act' qualified ships, which are used in the domestic trades, would belimited to 200,000 gross tons per year. There would be no tonnage maximums after three years. (According to data from the Shipbuilders Council of America, the U.S. currently builds an average of less than 200,000 gross tons per year for the Jones Act trades.) • The U.S. would not have to eliminate Title XI loan guaran­ tees, an existing program that )rovides government-backed oans to both domestic and foreign interests who want to have vessels built in U.S. shipyards. But Title XI terms would have to be brought into compliance with the OECD pact's provisions on export and home credits, which already are similar to Title XI guarantees. This means that the terms of financial guarantees will be limited to 12 years rather than Title XI's current limit of 25 years. • Export credits would be controlled via a modified version of an existing OECD under­ standing on export credits for ves­ sels. • Home and export credit schemes would exist on the same terms. • It would establish dispute settlement mechanisms. Senator John Breaux (D-La.), who is sponsoring a bill that would permit the U.S. to penalize foreign ships that are built with government Subsidies and that call on U.S. ports, hailed the OECD agreement. He declared that it "achieves virtually every major U.S. objective." �Mc-^.:.m SEAFARERS LOG AUGUST 1994 9 HY Fary Senrice Mtk Rmite, Mme to ikune 13 Seafarer-Crewed Boats Offer a Popular Commuting Alternative •ft- i-itjffif , • V/'-r?--: When the SlU-contracted NY Waterway commuter ferry and bus service recently added a new ferry route to its already bustling business between New York and New Jersey, it marked another successful step in the revival of a mass transit ferry system in the New York/New Jersey area. While the region's ferry service boomed in the late 19th century, it had virtually disappeared in the later part of the 20th century, but now thrives. Formerly named Port Imperial FerryBus System, NY Waterway began eight years ago as a( oneboat operation with two crewmembers on board, including Captain Bob Alburtus, who still works on the ferries. Today, more than 50 SIU members sail as captains and deckhands aboard the 13 com7 muter ferries that are owned and operated by NY Waterway Presi­ dent Arthur Imperatore. Additional shipboard jobs were created two mondis ago when the latest boat, the Henry Hudson, went into use, and that vessel is transportinjg more than 1,500 passengers daily be­ tween the Colgate Center in New Jersey and the World Financial Centra- in Manhattan. Another new ferry also is being built (scheduled for delivery later this year), and the company anticipates adding as many as four more commuter routes and two leisure routes in the near future. Meanwhile, day cmises to local tourist attractions and other sites recently were started. "From the time I was a boy growing up inr Hudson County, ferries and the Seafarers were a big part of the activity and excite­ ment on the Hudson River," Im­ peratore noted. "I consider it a very special highlight of my working career to have success­ fully returned ferries to the f- '•'if J" NY^terway's newest ferry, the SlU-crewed HenryHudson, transports passengers to and from the financial district in New York City. metropolitan area for new genera­ tions to know and love." In all, the commuter ferries currently transport about 20,(X)0 passengers per day between lower and midtown Manhattan, the Colgate Center and the New Jersey towns of Weehawken and Hoboken. Each boat has a capacity of about 400 passengers, travels at an average speed of between 15 and 18 mph and is roughly 100 feet long. One-way trips last five to 10 minutes, depending on the route, and the ferries nm from 6:45 a.m. until 10 p.m. "You always want to make as many runs as possible, while maintaining safety," explained NY Waterway's Captain Mark Summers. "We have to remember that we're Newest Ferry responsible for a lot of people and Name: Henry Hudson a lot of equipment." TOTARRYTOWN4 4TONYACK/YONKERS George Fort Lee Washington Bridge YANKEE STADIUM EXPRESS Port Imperial WEEHAWKEri f MIDTOWN WEST 38th ST. > J Point EAST 34th Lincoln Harbor WEEHAWKEN MANHATTAN HOBOKEN< JERSEY. CITYi I WORLD FINANCIAL XENTER Well-Received The response to the an­ "DOWNTOWN, SLIP 5 nouncement of the latest service route between Colgate Center and Manhattan indicates how popular the ferries have become. Local • — Existing Ferry Routes media coverage at the maiden To .Proposed Ferry Routes voyage was extensive, and many dignitaries were in attendance, in­ SANDY HOOK cluding New Jersey Governor Map shows existing commuter ferry routes and others that may be Christine Todd Whitman and Jer- Liberty State Park •/ '. / Safe and Reliable Imperatore's business savvy, along with the safe and reliable work of SIU members aboard the boats, has proven to be a winning combination in reviving the region's ferry service. Competing directly with government-sub­ sidized public transportation, Imperatore's ferries and buses "have transported more than 18 mdlion passengers without a dime of federd or state subsidy," he said. The fares—^which include bus service on both sides of the river—average a little more than $30 per week for customers who buy a monthly pass. The ferry service in particular has earned a reputation as quick, safe, convenient and reliable for commuters. This was never more evident than during the severe winter storms earlier this year; while other transportation sys­ tems were shut down or substan­ tially delayed, the SlU-crewed boats forged ahead and main­ tained timely schedules. Similar scenarios played out during the Blizzard of '93 and in the aftermath of the terrorist ex­ plosion which rocked the World Trade Center in February of last year. In the latter instance, the ferries worked on an emergency schedule to relieve the over­ crowding for the city's thousands of stranded commuters, because subway and bus transportation was disrupted. Top speed: 20 mph Length: 97 feet, 6 inches Beam: 25 feet, 6 Im^es Draft: 6 feet Engine power: Two Caterpillar diesel engines rated at 672 horse­ power each Electrical power: Two G.M. Detroit engine driven generators for total ship's service Gross tonnage: 95.58 G.T. Passenger capacity: 399 U.S. Coast Guard certification: River service and coastwise ser­ vice not more than 20 miles from land Hull construction: Aluminum plate welded to an aluminum framework and bulkheads Superstructure: Aluminum plate welded (Idei to an aluminum framework. Fixed and sliding win­ dows. Equipment: Heated foredeck to melt snow and ice, VHP radio, radar, public address system, hom, depth indicator, compass, running lights, searchlight, heated windshield with wipers, interior ligfiting, radiant heat panels, upholstered fixed seating, carpet­ ing, restrooms, handrails, anchor and anchor line, docking lines, su­ perstructure insulation, soundproof engine, nonskid deck­ ing. Misc.: Lower deck fully enclosed, upper deck partially enclosed Builder Gladding-Heam, Dudos Corp. of Somerset, MA. sey City Mayor Bret Schundler. "This new service is good for New Jersey and New York," Whitman said. "It strengthens Jersey City's dynamic waterfront while at the same time meets tran­ sit needs important to lower Manhattan's revitalization. There are no losers in this venture, only winners." Schundler said he believes the new service will help create jobs by bolstering the expansion projects at the Colgate Center. All along the Hudson River waterfront, in fact, new offices and apartments are replacing old, non-operational factories and railroad yards. Summers volunteered for the new route "to help make sure it got off to a smooth and timely start. Also, I've done all the other routes, so this was a chance to meet new people." Highlights of the route include being able to see the Statue of Liberty and meeting new cus­ tomers, Summers said. But the work also is quite challen^ng, as Summers or another captain must execute 53 dockings in eight hours. They also must be keenly aware of other river traffic and w^es. "It's a convenient and desirable way to get into the city without having to stand in a crowded subway... — Capt. Manny Rebelo Captain Manny Rebelo also has piloted the Henry Hudson. "There's no other mass transit there, and we drop off passengers right in the financial district," he noted. "It's a convenient and desirable way to get into the city without having to stand in a crowded subway. People depend on it and the [passenger count] is increasing daily." •.a"-' Day Cruises The existing day cruises (which have regular schedules but also may be t^en on a charter basis) include trips to the newly opened Rockefeller family estate; the sites of colonial Philipsburg Manor; the home of author Washington Irving, Sunnyside and more. Also available are a 90-minute New York Harbor Tour and an evening Harbof Lights Cruise. One of the proposed leisure routes would transport pas­ sengers from New Jersey to Yankee Stadium in the Bronx. added in the near future. 4.i ; '-k> "J / f �-V: -VVA.' 4'- Sr-m 10 ..,-» AUGUST1994 XAFARERSLOe Seafarers Find Refrigeration Ciasses 'Extensive,' 'Fast-Paced' and Heipfui Dozens of Seafarers took the port agent whom they contact course in the Seafarers LOG. Paul Hall Center's on-site when signing up for the class "I've taken some of Eric's courses Refrigeration Technician course They should tfien send a check for before, and he really knows his at SIU halls last month, as the $25, made payable to the "Pau stuff," said Camell, who joined the Lundeberg School began its port- Hall Center," to: EPA Refrigera­ union 14 years ago and who took to-port schedule. tion Tech. Course, Paul Hall Cen­ the class in New York. "In this Students and Lundeberg ter for Maritime Training and course, there's a lot to cover. I School Instructor Eric Malzkuhn Education; P.O. Box 75, Piney bought the book after I had Just rated the initial classes as chal­ Point, MD 20674, Attn: J.C. gotten off a ship, and it's a must." lenging but successful, and Wiegman. The book will be sent The Lundeberg School course, Malzkuhn added that the pass rate by first class mml. which is approved by the Enwas above average. They also vironmenta Protection Agency Fast-Paced Course strongly stated that anyone who (EPA), compares favorably with QMED Charles Pomraning does a workbook exercise Involving a plans to take the two-day course SIU members who have taken a similar class that is available at refrigerant recovery system (foreground) at the Baltimore hall. would greatly enhance their chan­ the course described it as a state university, said QMED ces of passing the exam by pur- thorough and fast-moving. They Charles Lore. He said the Lun­ chasing the course textbook also pointed out that the Lun­ deberg School course, which is (titled "Refrigerants and the En­ deberg School's port-to-port free for Seafarers, is "far supe­ vironment") in advance and schedule gives Seafarers ample rior." studying it in detail. opportunity to take the exam. Third Assistant Engineer Mat­ "I'm pleased with the turnout "There's a lot of information thew Mersinger, an SIU hawand the quality of the students, to be covered," said Electrician sepiper, took the class at the said Malzkuhn, who has taught Bob Stearman, a member of the Bdtimore hall. "There's a lot of refrigerant-handling courses to Seafarers for almost 30 years who information to be absorbed in a lit­ thousands of mariners and took the class in Baltimore. "It tle time," he said. "The class is shoreside workers. "They are will be a very big help to those good and it definitely is fastvery motivated and sincere, and taking the course to have the book paced." we're getting good support from ahead of time." Meanwhile, Malzkuhn noted QMED Gregorio Blanco said that the on-site class apparently everyone involved. "But not everyone is getting he appreciated the fact that the spurred a number of Seafarers to the book in advance, and that has course was available at the New take other upgrading courses at been reflected in the test results. York hall. "It was convenient, the Paul Hall Center. "Several Purchase of the book is not man­ and the class itself was very ex­ members who sail as electricians datory, but there is a direct cor­ tensive," he stated. "I bought the wanted to know when the next relation between studying the book in advance, and that made it refrigeration class would be held book in advance an^ passing the much easier to understand the 9t Piney Point. The class in New course." York opened their eyes to what is exam." Pumpman James "Russ" available at the school and their Pondering a question about CFCs Is QMED Chromer Jefferson, Seafarers who want to buy the pictured at the Baltimore hall. book should indicate this to the Carneil said he read about the need to upgrade even more." COURSE OOniNE \: • Two-Day Course DAY ONE 1.' f:'- 0' <v '1. Preparation 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Students in New York concentrate on the EPA refrigeration technician certification exam, administered by the Lundeberg School. Answers to CommasA^edlluesUmK About New EPA Rule Continuedfrom page 6 Point, either alone or as part of his or her QMED training, the Seafarer must go through the standard admissions process. For the refrigeration technician certifica­ tion course itself, the school will ex­ pedite the admissions process by taking the application information over the phone. What is the refrigeration technician certification course content? The course lasts two days. On the first day, it starts at 8:00 in the morning and concludes at 4:00 in the afternoon. During this time, students will go over the certification process, refrigerants and compressor lubricating oils, refrigerant handling safety procedures, the impact on the environment of refrigerants, refrigeration theory, pressure tempera­ ture relationships and relevant laws and regulations. During the second day, from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., participants cover refrigeration servicing, small appliance handling, working with high-pressure equipment, servicing low-pressure sys­ tems and conversion of equipment using CFC-based refrigerants. On both days, there will be a lunch break. After taking the course, when is the test? After taking the course, the test is given from 2:(X) p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on the after­ noon of the second day. Once the test is taken, when wiii a Seafarer get his or her resuits? A Seafarer will obtain the results of the exam no more than one month after he or she takes the test. How ibng is the refrigeration tech­ nician certification good for? Once taken and p^sed, it lasts a lifetime; in other words, it does not have to be taken again. Actually, the certifica­ tion will only be necessary as long as ozone-depleting refrigerants are in use. It is the goal of the EPA to phase out all CFC-based refrigerants by January 1, 1996. HCFC-based refngerants will be phased out by 2030. What proof does a Seafarer have that he or she is a refrigeration tech­ nician? With the notification of having passed the test will come a card and a certifi­ cate. The card is known as a refrigera­ tion technician certification identification card. A person handling refrigerants is required by the EPA to have this qn his or her person /Whenever^ working with refrigerants. The certifi­ cate indicates that the individual has compl«ifed the. course, pf ii)stniction and passed the test. The EPA regulations re­ quire that a copy of the technician cer­ tification be maintained at the technician's place of employment. What the SIU advises is that a Semarer make several copies of this certificate and keep the original in a safe, shoreside place. A copy should be tad^ep onboard any ship on which the Seafarer works. In Ais way it can be displayed according to EPA regulations. Are there other reguiations stem­ ming from the dean Air Act Amend­ ments of 1990 that affect the work of seamen? Yes. Halons will be phased out by the year 2000. HaIon-1301 is commonly found in shipboard firefighting systems. HaIon-1201 is found in small portable extinguishers. Carbon tetrachloride also is being phased out by the year 2CX)0. What is the penaity for not compiying with the EPA's r^uiations? Any party found in violation of an EPA regulation that put into effect the intent of the Clean Air Amendment directed at stopping the depletion of the world's ozone layer, including the rule mandat­ ing refrigeration technician certification, is subject to a fine. The EPA first issues a warning. The agency has the right to then seek fines up to $25,000. Ad^ditionally, individuals who provide informa­ tion to the EPA that identifies violators of the regulations, can be awarded up to $10,000. 1. Certification Process 2. Refrigerants and Compres­ sor Lubricating Oils 3. Refrigerant/Oil Handling Safety 4. Environmental Impact of Refrigerants 5. Refrigeration Theory/PressureTemperature Relation­ ships 6. Laws and Regulations DAY TWO Preparation 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. Testing 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. 1. Refrigeration Sen/icing 2. Servicing Small Appliances 3. Servicing High-Pressure Ap­ pliances 4. Servicing Low-Pressure Ap­ pliances 5. Conversion of CFG Equip­ ment 6. Demonstration of Approved Sen/ice Procedures 7. EPA Certification Test Correction Due to a typographical error, page 13 of the July issue of the Seafarers LOG con­ tained an incorrect answer to one of the sample questions from the Technician Cer­ tification workbook. The correct answer to question number 10 (What is the technical definition of an EPA Class 1 substance?) is, chlorine or bromine containing substances that have an OOP (ozone depletion poten­ tial) of 0.2 or greater. �v,.,/iV®!®^i«W<f»,'-'{ •. • • .• .- AUGUST 1994 SEAFARERS LUG 11 Higher Education Doesn't Have to cost a Fortune Seafarers and Dependents Can Apply for a 1995 Seafarers Welfare Plan Scholarship Like many other things in life, the cost of education at the college and university level never seems to decrease. Rather, it is a continuing spiral that often prevents many working people from even thinking about attend­ ing college-level classes. But each year, students and their families continue to scrimp and save in order to overcome this financial obstacle and fulfill their educational goals and ideals. (See chart of average tui­ tions at public, four-year institu­ tions on this page.) The Seafarers Welfare Plan offers a solution to the exor­ bitant costs of education beyond the high school level—in the form of a scholarship. Since 1952, the SIU has awarded 235 scholarships to its members and their spouses and children. As in past years, the union in 1995 will again offer seven scholarships. Four of these financial awards for the '95 school year are set aside for the children and spouses of Seafarers. Each of the four scholarships is for $15,000, to be used at a four-year college or university. The other three are for Seafarers themselves. One of the awards also is for $15,000 for use at a four-year institution of higher learning. The remain­ ing two scholarships amount to $6,000 each and can be used for two-year studies at a community college or vocational school. Taking advantage of this financial benefit is not difficult, but it will necessitate a little or­ ganization on the part of the col­ lege-bound student. The first step in the application process is to send away for the Seafarers Scholarship Program booklet which contains all the necessary application information. To receive a copy of this guide, send in the coupon at the bottom of this page. The Welfare Plan receives many applications for the scholarship program, and it is often very difficult to select only seven recipients for the awards. Therefore, if an application was submitted in past years and was not selected—DON'T BE DIS­ COURAGED. That person should send in another applica­ tion this year. What follows are some highlights from the scholarship booklet. ELIGIBILITY For a Seafarer to be eligible to be awarded a scholarship, he or she must: • Be a high school graduate or its equivalent; • Have a total of 730 days of employment with an employer who is obligated to make conributions to the Seafarers Welare Plan on the Seafarer's Tehalf prior to the date of ap­ plication; • Have one day of employ­ ment on a vessel in the sixmonth period immediately prior ;o the date of application; • Have 120 days of employ­ ment on a vessel in the previous calendar year. (Pensioners are not eligible Average Undergraduate Resident Tuition and Fees By State Increases in tuition and fees for students in resident undergraduate programs during 1993 varied by state. The majority of states saw increases in tuition and fees of between 4 and 7 percent, with 13 states reporting double-digit increases. The chart below shows the average tuition and fees at public, four-year institutions as well as the percent increase from 1992. 1993 Average State for scholarships.) For a spouse to be eligible for a scholarship award, he or she must: • Be married to an eligible Seafarer or SIU pensioner; • Be a high school graduate or its equivalent. For a dependent child to be eligible to be awarded a scholar­ ship, he or she must: • Be ah unmarried child of an eligible Seafarer or SIU pen­ sioner for whom the member or pensioner has been the sole source of support the previous calendar year (however, should a dependent child win an SIU scholarship and marry while receiving the award, they will not have to forfeit the grant by reason of such marriage); • Be a high school graduate or its equivalent, although applica­ tions may be made during the senior year of high school; • Be under the age of 19—or be under the age of 25 and be a full-time student enrolled in a program leading to a bac­ calaureate or higher degree at an accredited institution authorized by law to grant such degrees; • Be the child of a Seafarer who has credit for a total of 1,095 days of covered employ­ ment with an employer who is obligated to make contributions to the Seafarers Welfare Plan on the Seafarer's behalf prior to the date of application; • Be the child of a seafaring Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut Delaware District of Columbia Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennslvania Puerto Rico Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virgin Islands Virginia Washington West Virginia Wisconsin parent who has one day of employment in the six-month period preceding the date of application and 120 days of employment in the previous calend^ year (unless the eligible parent is deceased). CHECKLIST Items that need to be included in the full application and postmarked by the deadline date of April 15,1995 are: • Scholarship application • Autobiographical statement • Photograph • Certified copy of birth certifi­ cate • • High school transcript and certification of graduation or official copy of high school equivalency scores • College transcript • Letters of reference • SAT or ACT results DEADLINES All completed applications with all necessary information included MUST be mailed and postmarked ON or BEFORE APRIL 15,1995. FOR MORE INFORMATION Ask for a 1995 Seafarers Scholarship Program booklet at any SIU hall, or fill out the, coupon below and return it to the Settfarers Welfare Plan. Now is the time to start think­ ing about educational plans, 1,953 2,001 1,811 1.725 2,268 2,077 2,530 2,957 974 1,767 1,806 1,229 1,515 2,594 2,406 2,352 1,984 1,845 2,183 3,113 3,231 3,709 3,252 2,722 2,295 2,366 1,895 1,826 1.665 3,594 3,620 1,646 2,818 1,398 1,958 3,080 1,507 2,815 4.075 1,410 3,242 2,888 2,240 1.787 1,435 1,853 6,400 1,596 3,684 2,210 1,881 2,173 Percent Increase : 5.6 19.5 16.2 8.9 16.3 2.7 7.0 7.3 17.3 3.9 3.5 3.1 6.5 4.5 7.4 5.6 6,4 12.4 21.3 7.3 13.0 6.7 9.3 4.7 0.7 9.9 9.3 4.5 0.9 11.0 5.8 8.4 1-0 11.3 6.1 5.1 7.1 6.7 7.2 4.7 7.4 10.3 5.1 5.7 11.3 6.4 3.8 10.8 8.4 11.2 7.7 6.2 . c' ' •' .! -r".! • •'•.-V > •: • 'Wt" •' 'M, -'M Af-; • 'nK-. • • •: r:-?- SOURCE: "Student Charges at Public, Four-Year Institutions - Fall 1993." National Association of State Universities and Land-Grant Colleges. r lease send me the 1995 SIU Scholarship Program booklet which contains eligibility information, P Iprocedures for applying and the application form. Name Book Number Address. City, State, Zip Code. Telephone Number. This application is for • Self ,• Dependent Mail this completed form to Scholarship Program, Seafarers Welfare Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. r ryj:. --y y-- / r �:• f• 7 12 SEAFARERS LOG AUGUST 1994 Voyage to Gdynia: MEMORIES OF RALPH j. LUNDGREN . - ,, September 25—^the 22nd an abandoned wreck near the We'll smuggle in anything you day: The piano stops, the party main entrance, long ago bombed want." noise and gaiety end. I come into rubble. A door around the "Don t have to smuggle anyawake into a nightmare, find corner leads directly into the thinginhere. Real nice folks. You myself staring into the round, bat- building. got to meet the lady who runs this tered silver eye of an ashtray Two neat but worn youi.£,nur- place." stamped, DIE GUTEN DAN- ses stand in the hall, wearing long We're more worried about ZIGER ZIGARETTEN. Full of white uniforms, skirts down to Web than we reali^ until Frisco dead cigarette butts, more are their shoes, white scarves pulled breaks the ice. "Never been shot before!" He slaps the foot of being stamped out to die as voices tight around their heads. Web's bed. We laugh at this. To "We're from the American around me say, "Web... shot... hide our concern, we kid Web ship," Tom explains. "One of our let's go.. . where is he... where's with some rough talk. But he's in Web ... who shot him?" Pushing shipmates was just brought in." "Sister Czesia!" one of the pain. back chairs, crossing the floor, "Where' s the lady you want us half-running through the double nurses calls up the stairs. When doors and into the boulevard, we there is no answer, she says, "Oh, to meet?" I want to change the follow Yeep, who's leading us to come," and waves us to follow subject. "Hey, she's neat. Manya!" he Web, 15 men, half the Virginian's her. But half-way up the stairs an Peggy Kujawa, the niece of Sister Czestawa, and author Ralph Lundgren crew, running through the older nurse appears. She seems calls the nurse who's brought us remember the days Lundgren and his shipmates brought the news that darkened city toward a church even more worn and weary than to the room. She moves to Web's Sister "Chessie" was alive. bedside "You hurt?" she seems to across the boulevard from the bar. the others. The church is small, made of "I'm sorry," she says in be asking him. "No. Get, you know. . ." he big square stones, it has a cold, English. "I know you are conpoints to the open door, hard appearance. Its stones are cemed about your friend. But you gray in the glare of flashlights can't see him now. This evening, "Shvester. Get ShVester Ches­ swallowed by the night. A door maybe." It is our first encounter sie." In September 1945, Ralph Lundgren ofOlympia, Wash., was "Okay, okay." Manya points, opens and a man appears, back- with anyone in Gdynia who really an ordinary seaman sailing with the Sailors' Union of the Pacific, speaks our language. Sister her hands fly as she runs from the lit, holding up his hands. "No," he an affiliate of the Seafarers International Union of North room, leaving us facing Web and Czesia seems very much in says. We can't all come in. "Too America. He was 18 years old and aboard his very first ship, the suddenly aware that he doesn't charge. "Everything will be done many," he explains. SS Virginian, sailing for Gdynia, Poland with the first United really look so good. All of us Toomey, in his charac­ for him," she promises. "We are Nations relief shipment of food to reach the country at the end of teristically thoughtful way stands really quite experienced with begin talking at once about noth­ World War II. Last year, Lundgren flew into Baltimore-Washington Airport back, allowing Pete to intervene. gunshot wounds. Gunshots and ing important. It's as if we have to cap an adventure that began 48 years ago in a hospital on "I'm bosun. Let me and his two malnutrition," she brings up her suddenly discovered he's been watchmates in." hands in a shrug, "and bringing shot and don't know what to say. Gdynia's main Street, Ulica Starowiejska. He hoped to find the The man nods, and Tom, Pete babies into the world." "Knock it off," Web says sud­ family of the Polish nurse who had helped save the life of one of We leave like obedient school denly. "Here she comes." his shipmates, AS Webster "Web" Goodwin, so many years and I follow him into the church. We turn, suddenly silent as he ago—a nurse who's first name he couldn't spell and who's last There are no pews, just litters on boys and later that day return to the floor. With candles and the hospital. Web hears us climb­ waves to a woman coming name he had forgotten. Visiting Goodwin, who had been shot in the hip, Lundgren and kerosene lanterns the only source ing the stairs. "Get in here," he through the door. "Come meet my other members of the deck department met Sister "Chessie," a of light. We find Web in the mid­ calls. "They got me on a rack." friends." We find him in a long and nar­ The chief nurse seems even Catholic Sister of Mercy who was serving as a nurse in Gdynia dle of all the others, hurt, but he's also laughing. row room, probably a storage area more worn and worried than she when WWII broke out in 1939. In the absence of Polish doctors "What's so funny? What hap­ before the bombs came down. seemed this morning. She crosses after six years of war. Sister Chessie directed the care and pened?" Pete asks. treatment given to the injured sailor. "She spoke English well Pushed close to the long wall, the room to touch Web's cheek and seemed almost American," Lundgren remembers now. "We Web winces and we crouch three beds stand end-to-end. A with the back of one hand that all became good friends." around his litter. window in one narrow wall drops to check his pulse. "It's When the Virginian was due to leave Gdynia and Goodwin's "You don't have to tell us brightens the white-washed good you are all here," she looks watchmates came to take him back to the ship. Sister Chessie now," Tom says. walls. Like the nurses, the place younger when she smiles. "He's asked for a favor. No mail had left Poland since the German "No, it's okay. Went in a is neat and clean but worn. feeling sorry for himself." Her occupation six years before, and she was sure her brother and building. All an accident. Bunch "How you doin', Web?" Tom English is very good. "But he's his family in America believed she was dead. She had written of people around. This guy pulls walks to Web's bed, tries to look better, if no infection sets in. three copies of a letter addressed to her brother who lived in out a P38, like new. He hands it concerned but not worried. Shh," she pats Web who's still Baltimore, Md. Would they mail her letters when they landed in to me and it goes off " "I was feeling better, but now complaining. And he shuts up. the USA? Lundgren and his shipmates gladly agreed. "You shot yourself?" Tom is it hurts more in this body cast. I Our own language becomes "We felt we owed her more than a favor," Lundgren says. furious. don't know why. Never been shot miraculously clean. There's "Our first port of call back home turned out to be Baltimore, so "Better sleep," the man inter­ before.' something almost magic about we delivered the mail in person. Landing at Sparrows Point, four rupts, waving us from the room. "Never been shot before?" Tom this woman I don't understand. I of us piled on a streetcar and headed for the address on Sister Web, he tells us in the hall, has no tries to grin. "We brought you know she's a nun, a Catholic Chessie's letters, a Polish bakery at 1100 South Highland reason to laugh. He needs more cigarettes and soap. And a Avenue. That's how the nun's family heard for the first time that care than they can give him there. toothbrush and some chocolate. Continued on page 22 she had survived the war." He needs to be in the hospital. If Last year, with the help of Baltimore's Polish Heritage As­ we can get him in. sociation, the bakery was found and the family located in North September 26—^the 23rd Baltimore. There, Lundgren and Sister Chessie's family filled in day: The captain's still fishing in the missing details needed to complete the story of a Polish nun the middle of Poland, imd the and the American seamen who had befriended one another so mates are as curious as the rest ot many years ago. Her name, Lundgren discovered, was Czestawa us about Web. "Go check on or "Czesia" Herchowski. him," Scott tells us. "There's Sister Czesia died in Poland; her brother Walter Herchowski enough here to mind the ship." died in Baltimore in the 1980s. But the nun's sister-in-law, Ida We don't have to be told to get Herchowski, now more than 90 years old, and her daughter, going. Peggy Kujawa, well remembered the morning in December of Back at the little church, we're 1945 when four happy American seafarers held three letters up just in time; they're putting Web against the bakery window on Highland Avenue to bring the good in a little German car. He lies with news that Sister Czesia was alive and well. his head beside the driver, his feet Of his visit with Sister Czesia's living relatives last year, sticking out the rear end. The car Lundgren said, "We had different versions of that morning and moves off, slowly at first, then the neighborhood celebration that followed when we delivered leaves us standing in the street. the mail. We didn't agree on just how many people filled the little We follow Web to the hospital, bakery and who said what. But we squared it all away. Ida is straight ahead to Ulica sharp as a tack, and her memory proved better than mine. After Starowiejska, the boulevard with all, I'd forgotten Sister Czesia's last name. But I'll never forget all the Russian graves, then three her and the welcome her family gave me in Baltimore in 1948 blocks east. and again 48 years later, in October 1993. It was like coming Shaped like a T, one wing of home." the hospital has been blown away. Ida Herchowski and Ralph Lundgren filled each other in on The bomb-blasted, jagged endsof all the missing details which Lundgren needs to finish writing a its corridors are blocked off with book about his first cruise, of which the story on this page will be wooden barriers. Rubble, chunks the final chapter. Lundgren's book, which includes his own of plaster and shards of glass and drawings of the events he witnessed, is close to being completed. metal cover the ground. The little "It's good you are all here. He's feeling sorry for himself," Sister Czestawa tell6 car that brought Web here sits like Web's shipmates, as depicted In this sketch by Ralph Lundgren. Lundgren Finds Family of Nurse Who Saved Buddy's Life in '45 �t-i '•'ir;;r^ \ AUGUST 1994 SEAFMERSLOG 13 ,•:# : TTF Assists Russian Mariners Saiiing Under Unsafe Conditions The International Transport Workers Federation (ITF) last month secured approximately $80,000 in back wages and repatriation expenses for 28 Rus­ sian officers and unlicensed crewmembers of the Greekowned, Cyprus-flag containership Verano, including six who had been abandoned in Panama. Through the efforts of Spiro Varras, the SIU's federation in­ spector, the ITF during the Fourth of July weekend assisted the Rus­ sian merchant mariners who "showed they were living in in­ humane a:nd unsafe conditions on board the ship," Varras said. The ITF also issued more than a dozen recommendations for improvin, conditions aboartl the vesse while it was docked in the port o Port Elizabeth, N.J. (The ITF is composed of ap­ proximately 400 free and democratic trade unions in IOC nations representing workers various transportation-relatec jobs. The London-based or- Fed up with delayed, Incomplete payments and unsafe working condi tions, Russian crewmembers of the Verano contacted the ITF while the vessel was docked in Port Elizabeth, N.J. One of the concerns voiced by the Verano crew was a woeful lack of ship's stores, as shown by this empty refrigerator in the galley. The poor condition of chairs in the crew lounge was one of many ex­ amples of useless furniture and equipment aboard the vessel. ganization promotes trade union rights and human rights worldwide.) Strike In Jersey The Russian crewmembers and officers who were aboard the Verano (six of whom had signed on in Panama, several days ear­ lier) contacted Varras just before midnight, June 30, four hours before the ship was scheduled to With the aid of Spiro Varras, the SIU's ITF inspector (wearing tie), Russian leave Port Elizabeth. crewmembers from the Verano last month waged a successful strike and After explaining that they had secured back pay and other reimbursements which were due them. been subjected to delayed wage payments, low-quality food, un­ were changed onde a month, and well as by company lawyers and sanitary and unsafe conditions each crewmember received one two ship's captains. and other problems, they declared bar of soap per month. Meanwhile, attorneys for the • Drinking water was con­ crew convinced a U.S. District a strike on July 1 while the ship, which is operated by Astron taminated, there was a shortage of Court in New Jersey to send Maritime Co. of Greece and is stores and a lack of galley equip­ federal marshals to seize and ar­ owned by Profit Shipping, was ment, and the daily menus always rest the ship. ^ still in port. (Six other crewmem­ consisted of rice and macaroni. On July 4 a settlement was bers, who had been abandoned in • The ship's electrician reached, providing the Russians Panama three weeks earlier by the reported the vessel had no spare with all of their back pay, includ­ ship's captain after they com­ >arts available for repairs, which ing overtime and leave pay, plained about unsanitary condi­ eft deck department personnel repatriation expenses and man­ tions and lack of ship's stores, also vulnerable to potential electrocu­ ning company expenses. In a had a stake in the proceedings.) tion, due to unsafe conditions on separate but similar settlement, The mariners said they had not deck. the six crewmembers who were • Water pumps and plumbing left in Panama also received full been paid from mid-February until late May, and then were not for toilets were out of order con­ compensation. paid the full amounts owed. They stantly, and there were no buckets The vessel was released by the reported that, once they went on available for use in throwing marshals a few days later, but it strike, the ship management com­ seawater into the toilets. remained in port while repairs • Although the vessel sails in were made and the master was pany hired armed guards who repeatedly threatened the crew. hot climates, it does not have any replaced. A Filipino crew signed Crewmembers allegedly were ventilation. on, and with ITF assistance the forced to sign off the ship and • The number 2 and 3 hatches new crew secured a collective initially were forced to pay for had no motor to open and close bargaining agreement calling for their transportation, as well as the covers, so the crew had to increased wages (above the min­ manually perform those opera­ imum requirements of the Inter­ that of their replacements. Other charges made by the tions. national Labor Organization, crew included; Varras reported that, during which, for example, are $356 a • The ship was not equipped the strike, the armed guards hired month plus overtime rates for with any first aid kits or medicine. by the manning agent and com­ ABs). • There were no hard hats, pany tried to force the mariners to gloves or other safety gear on end the work stoppage. Similar The Verano has a crew of nine efforts allegedly were made by officers and 15 unlicensed board. • Bedding and other articles the Cyprus consulate attache, as mariners. #• SlU-Crewed Fishing Boats Claim Top Prizes Thomas Cnwiey Dies ai Cancer Continued from page 2 dertakes. Following World War II, the company inaugurated West Coast bulk petroleum barge service. Crowley Maritime also provided com­ mercial resupply lines to the U.S. military's early warning detection installations in the Arctic and for more than 20 years ran tug/barge supply operations to the oil industry working on Alaska's North Slope. Tug/barge operations be­ tween the U.S. East and Gulf coasts and the Caribbean as well as liner service to Central and South America were initiated during the 1970s and 1980s. Earlier this year, his son, Thomas Crowley Jr., took over as president and chief operating officer of the company which includes Crowley American, based in Jacksonville, and Crowley Marine Services out of •: -sj-v:- § Seattle. Crowley received many awards during his lifetime for his work in the U.S.-flag maritime industry. Among them were the Nationd Defense Transportation Award presented by the secretary of defense in 1970 and the U.S. Coast Guard Foundation's Distin­ guished Service Award in 1994. He served on the board of tmstees for the Transportation Institute and was a member of the American Bureau of Shipping. He was a past board member of the American In­ stitute of Merchant Shipping, the American Waterways (Operators and the National Oc^ Industries Association. Crowley is survived by his wife, Molly; his son, Thomas Jr.; his daughter, Adrienne Crowley; and three stepchildren, Elizabeth Cronin, Georgiana Cronin and Frederick Cronin. Funeral services were held July 11 in San Francisco. 1 i Three Seafarers-crewed fishing boats based in New Bedford, Mass. claimed the first three prizes for boat decorations during that city's 25th annual blessing of the fleet ceremony last month. Capturing first place was the Praia Da Torreira (above) with Captain Carlos Marquinhos aboard. Second prize went to the Blue Seas II(left) whose captain is Antonio Pereira. Garnering the third place award was the Portugal with Captain Antonio Gravato. A total of 10 SlU-crewed fishing vessels par­ ticipated in the celebra;tion. I if"- Tug/barge service like that provided by the SlU-crewed Pioneerio the Caribbean from the U.S. East and Gulf coasts were brought under the Crowley banner by Thomas Crowley Sr. 5 1 ' -'a'" {•! '••-A �14 AlWUSriOOA SEAFARERS LOG s^ $28 Million Fac^iit CS9iWIS3®|i;S^illi » S.;:;'>^'' •"•"'•/'iv •.'''• • V -.v. • 'i'if'r. >-.', -, • J MAJOR RENOVTION of the SIUcrewed passenger ship SS Inde­ pendence h^gan last month at New­ port News Shipbuilding, located on the southeastern shore of Virginia, where the vessel is in drydock. The $28 million project is ex­ pected to be complete by late Sep­ tember or early October. Dozens of Seafarers, as well as officers and numerous contractors, are doing the work. The Independence's sister ship, the Seafarerscrewed SS Constitution, is scheduled to undergo similar upgrades sometime next year. The Independence and Constitution are the only U.S.-flag deep sea bruise ships. Both are operated by American Hawaii Cruises. Smooth Start Although the crewmembers endured heavy rains during the second half of the 16-day voyage from Hawaii to Newport News, Recertified Bosun Tony Zizzo said that both the trip and the early stages of the Independence's refurbishing went well. "Everything has been done properly. I'd give the crew an 'A' for effort and for execution," said Zizzo, who joined the union in 1977 in Wilmington, Calif. "This is a fantastic crew. They all work very hard." Among the early jobs for the deck department was removing every rail on the ship — literally a mile's worth of railings, many of which are made from teak. This was done so that the rails can be refinished and the entire vessel can be sandblasted. During a full downpour, the deck gang also lowered and disconnected all lifeboats and stowed more than 1,000 life preservers. Their work during the upcoming weeks will include sanding, chipping, rehanging the rails, stripping the lifeboats and more. In consideration of the often stifling heat in Virginia's eastern seaboard, the bosun reminded crewmembers to make a conscious effort to replenish bodily fluids as they perform such tasks. Additionally, members of the deck department are helping to maintain vessel security. "We have about 200 contractors on here during the day, so six or seven (Seafarers) secure the vessel each night," explained Zizzo, whose brother, Lou, also is a bosun and sails primarily aboard the passenger ships. /Plenty to Do' Seafarers from the engine and steward departments also are working aboard the Independence while the ship is in drydock. "There's plenty to do and we're glad to be here," said Chief Cook Vickl Habenicht, after helping put out •5-: a lunch that featured macaroni salad, ham, fresh fruits and a variety of beverages. Meanwhile, the engine department will remain in charge of the diesels that power the liner. Their work ranges from maintenance and repair of heating and cooling units to operating a full machine shop. "Noth­ ing will work wi^out engines," FOWT Marty Kimmel stated. The overall restoration will "open up" many of the public areas in order to "give passengers a better view of the sea and islands," according to a fact sheet issued by American Hawaii Cruises, a division of Delta Queen Steamboat Co. For instance, the passenger lounge will be extended and open-air portions will be created by removing bulkheads. Many Upgrades The company also listed the following scheduled changes: • The current fitness and conference centers will be relocated, with the old space converted into top-of-theline passenger suites. Other passenger cabins also will be created on the boat deck. • Fully handicap-accessible suites will be created. • All passenger cabins will be stripped and redecorated. Direct cellular telephone service will be available from each cabin. • The buffet on the upper deck will be expanded and redesigned. • The prestigious, Honolulu-based Bishop Museum will create hands-on displays to be added in the lounge area. The centerpiece will include a three-dimensional map of the Hawaiian Island chain. • A colorful, graphic display center will be added to help passengers choose from more than 50 shore tours currently available. Safe Ships With the Independence in drydock, the Constitution is operating at maximum capacity. The vessels usually operate on a seven-day schedule around the Hawaiian Islands, making a complete trip once a week. Known among Seafarers as "Great White Ships," in part because of the clean white exteriors maintained by SlU deck department members, the ves­ sels are renowned among passengers for their entertain­ ment, food and itineraries in the islands. Once aboard the ships, many passengers express appreciation for the crew's emphasis on safety. Lifeboat drills ar^ conducted each week and" involve ^veryone aboard the vessels! including all passengers. Weekly fire arid "missing man" drills are perfonned by' crewmembers, and instructors from the Paul Hall Cen­ ter regularly conduct special shipboard classes cover­ ing safety, first aid, CPR and more. s, 7-,. , OS Sean Stout joins with other deck department members in opening the side port. Intently loosening a large bolt on the side port is OS John | "Spanky" Dunavant. ' GU Joseph Neilson stores a set of clean glassware in the galley of the Independence. Ch �SeAFARBRS LOG AUGUST 1994 Wiper Don Dllley carries equipment to the engineroom. Shortly after the/ndependencearrives in the Newport News, Va. shipyard, FOWT Chief Electriciari Balden Singh Fadiga Koutoub adjusts a lever in the engineroom. , opens an eleotricial box. IS Using a vice grip in the machine shop is FOWT Marty Kimmel. ,• • •" '•'a- ^. • ., • . .iffP V/' 7' FOWT Luis Cerchyo makes a minor repair Carrying an armful of propane fuel cylinders and other gear is Oiler Andrew Van Bourg. following a shipboard meeting. Diagram shows some of the work being done on the SS independence. Plumber Steve Cunningham adjusts a pipe as part of his duties aboard the passenger ship. Rtness center converted to top-of-the-llne passenger suites Bosun Tony Zizzo (r) and SlU Rep Bob Clinton discuss renovations. '-ft' Fully handicap-accessible suites created Rtness and conference centers relocated ; independence Lounge expanded, open-air s^ons created New passenger cabins added remcwing bulkheads All passenger cediins stripped and redecorated Entire vessel sandblasted All rails stripped and refinished Buffet redesigned and expanded Conference center converted to passenger suites • -' '%4i. 'W • f ,S'- Focusing on the job at hand is AB Rene Rafer. 3hief Cook Vicki Habenicht inishes putting out lunch. Carpenter Bob Fincher will help refinish a mile's worth of wood railings OS_Mario Martinez (left) and AB Rene Rafer continue Ready to sand a teak railing is AB A ^1 I Qfll L©Sl0r. preliminary work in opening the side port. that were removed by the deck gang. •m . •/ Setting condiments on a table is GU Kim Brooke. Covering one of the pans filled with freshly made fried chicken is GU Harrison Furtado. The crew's galley gets tidied up by GU Regalado Bayan following lunch. �• feV> 16 AUGUST 1994 SEAFARAERS LOG After Somali Relief Effort Prepositioning Ship Hauge Is Back in Diego Garcia •V Following extensive involvement in Operation Restore Hope, the U.S. military's operation to provide relief to war-ravaged Somalia, Seafarers aboard the Cpl. Louis J. Hauge Jr. are back to routine operations aboard the prepositioning ship, currently based in Diego Garcia. But no matter the circumstance or the port, excellent meals are a staple aboard the vessel. "I think it has some of the best menus of the ships in Diego," said Cook/Baker Michael Watts, who added that Chief Steward William Bunch "is very creative." A 1991 graduate of the Paul Hall Center's trainee program. Watts added that the Hauge's menus reflect the steadily increasing dietary awareness of the crewmembers. "We serve a lot of stir-fries and vegetables. No doubt, guys are looking for healthier menus," said the 29-year-old resident of Mobile, Ala. i\. } V ;• /"•:. Good Environment , r"; t-.,'/v'' !...'V*'/'•'((, '•, Being a good feeder may explain in part the cohesiveness of the Hauge's crew, noted fellow galley gang member SA Duane Washington, who graduated from the Paul Hall Center's Lundeberg School two years ago. Additionally, like many other Seafarers who sail on vessels stationed in Diego Garcia, Washington and Watts both stated that the region itself is conducive to good morale. "You really get to know everybody here, and the conditions are great," said Washington. "Because you can go ashore during non-work hours, it's easy to keep in touch with your family, which is another positive. "I just think it's a good place for seamen, and if anybody has a negative attitude, they won't last.'' Washington, 23, said he typically puts in a full day of cleaning two decks, plus the crew lounge and laundry Busily preparing a meal for their feilow crewmembers are Cook/Baker Michael Watts (left) and Chief Cook Henry Greene. rooms, as well as "helping out in the galley as needed and taking care of the linen locker." When he is through for the day, he enjoys staying abreast of the latest news by watching CNN or read­ ing one of the newspapers available ashore. "It's*a good environment, there's a lot to do and we all enjoy working together," said Washington, who resides in Jacksonville, Fla. SIU Port Agent Sal Aquia, who provided the photos accompanying this article, said the Hauge impressed him as "a clean ship with good food, a great crew and no problems at all." Time for Upgrading For Watts, who served in the U.S. Army during the Persian Gulf War, time on the beach always means another opportunity to upgrade at the Lundeberg School. "I think the courses have steadily improved, and I'm look­ ing forward to going back for the new chief cook class," he said. Having made the career change from the armed forces to the merchant marine. Watts added that he is pleased with his new field. "Being from Mobile, a lot of the guys I went to high school with also sail, so I was already familiar with this line of work. I'm just glad I chose this career, although some­ times I wish I would have started sooner. I like the travel and the pay is good." When contacted in mid-July for this article, both Watts and Washington were preparing to return imminently to Diego Garcia—Watts to sign on the Alex Bonnyman, and Washington headed back to the Hauge. Operated by Maersk, the Hauge was one of 17 SlU-crewed ships that took part in the U.S./United Nations relief efforts in Somalia, which began in late 1992. The ship carried food and materiel to American soldiers who were stationed in the East African nation. • '-M ''J • t •;. •'.'..-"T ' ."v ^,; y - r!' ' • '". '•• ,.;:,;;r • ^.'v i';. AB Izzy Soto anticipates another deli- AB Scott Murrain takes a seat in the cious meal aboard the Hauge. galley, ready for a union meeting. ,„„).•-A' i.''' w .'.I,' - ' Directing operations on deck is Bosun Jerry Fahey. �•viA'•.• :?' Auemi994 Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea JUNE 16 — JULY 15,1994 •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C •••' ••' .1. ••i^'/'''-i m Is-'' .";• •••' [ •>•:; - fewg • l'«P ••REGISTERED ON BEACH TOTAL SHIPPED Ali Groups All Groups Trip Class A Class B Class C Reliefs Class A Class B Class C DECK DEPARTMENT 11 57 53 13 18 20 4 1 12 1 0 4 1 1 0 8 4 0 5 1 2 7 18 37 5 1 5 9 1 22 17 4 6 3 2 6 36 40 8 13 3 23 ^'-•7';47^-.:: 44 • 15 14 2 44 35 '3.7 7 14 17 23 mM.. • -.77 79; 13 2 17 6 38 27 14 3 18 12 2 6 20 6 0 6 1 8 20 11 6 5 2 5 • 14 48 43 16 24 10 9 2 •' 1 1 0 0 5 1 1 10 2 3 5 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 73 390 363 102 36 156 132 ENGINE DEPARTMENT Port 32 35 6 New York 9 0 Philadelphia 2 3 8 Baltimore 1 Norfolk 8 4 29 0 Mobile 12 14 New Orleans 25 29 5 31 Jacksonville 37 5 24 San Francisco 29 16 4 Wilmington 22 18 6 23 Seattle Puerto Rico 5 1 15 6 Honolulu 9 4 Houston 32 12 25 St. Louis 3 1 2 4 0 1 Piney Point 0 0 1 Algonac 53 240 267 Totals Port 31 43 9 1 13 6 3. 26 22 New York 3 • ; o M(' 1 ,1 0 3 0 0 1 2 Philadelphia 1 10 1 • 0 , 0 8 1 . 7- 3 Baltimore 1 8 25 13 0 0 2 4 13 4 Norfolk 7 1 18 12 0 0 2 6 1 9 12 Mobile 1 28 21 3 6 1 11 I 11 New Orleans 17 2 •::iM25 18 6 1 12 7 • 2• 15 Jacksonville 12 A,: Mi. 15 25 6 1 11 1 San Francisco 16 , 14 -J 19 9 5 : 12 , 3 2 4 5 ::"-»17 Wilmington 4 19 20 10 0 14 8 1 13 , 12 • Seattle 0 ,8 6 2 0 2 7 0 8 ^2 Puerto Rico 9 13 3 7 3 7 1 7 7 0 Honolulu e 4 40 20 1 3 9 •' 3 21 14 Houston 0 2 1 0 . 0 'MM 0 0 7 1 1 St Louis 0 ^^7. 4 0 1 0 2 0 Piney Point 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 Algonac 36 262 193 55 12 89 74 28 154 135 Totals STEWARD DEPARTMENT Port 17 M 1 9_ jNew Yoik 19 :;2, 1 6 Philadelphia 0 ::i4^: 6 0 Baltimore 2 12 12 2 0 6 Norfolk 0 7 12 1 1 8 Mobile 1 10 11 6 0 New Orleans 6 0 8 22 6 2 Jacksonville 13 1 17 52 9 0 San Francisco 34 1 5 5 16 0 Wilmington 12 1 5 0 7 27 18 Seattle 2 0 8 0 0 5 Puerto Rico 4 12 12 0 1 8 Honolulu 1 11 19 4 0 'viiiS 13 Houston 0 2 2 0 0 St. Louis 2 0 3 7 0 0 5 Piney Point 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Algonac 15 114 232 48 84 49 5 154 Totals ENTRY DEPARTMENT Port mm 0 20 74 25 49 New York 2 3 0 0 2 0 Philadelphia 4 9 0 0 ^ 5 1 Baltimore 7 5 30 6 16 4 Norfolk 3 23 3 0 18 1 Mobile 33 12 10 0 24 New OrleMis 4 10 28 5 20 5 Jacksonville 6 17 28 14 : San Francisco 15 10 29 8 0 3 7 0 Wilmington 13 30 9 0 0 9 14 7 Seattle 4 8 9 0 0 5 8 5 Puerto Rico 87 55 9 0 10 2 24 4 Honolulu 0 5 Houston 0 2 0 0 1 St. Louis 0 16 0 0 0 15 Piney Point 1 1 0 0 0 0 Algonac 183 386 115 0 17 106 Totals Totals All 903 1452 307 205 321 400 Departments 757 196 ueparuiicina 592 —70 — * 'Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. »* "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. A total of 996 jobs were shipped on SlU-contracted deep sea vessels. Of the 996 j^s shipM. 321 jobs or about 32 percent were taken by "A" seniority members. The rest were filled by' B and C seniority people. From June 16 to July 15,1994, a total of 205 trip reUef jobs were shipped. Since the tnp rebef pro­ gram began on April 1,1982, a total of 21,326 jobs have been shipped. • V m.'-. m m '!• • m • m • .• 'i.' SEAFARBtS LOG 17 September & October 1994 Membership Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, inland Waters Piney Point Tuesday: September 6*; Monday, October 3 changed by Labor Day holiday New York Tuesday: September 6, October 4 Philadelphia Wednesday: September 7, October 5 Baltimore Thursday: September 8, October 6 Norfolk Thursday: September 8, October 6 Jacksonville Thursday: September 8, October 6 Algonac Friday: September 9, October 7 Houston Monday: September 12, October 10 New Orleans Tuesday: September 13, October 11 Mobile Wednesday: September 14, October 12 San Francisco Thursday: September 15, October 13 Wilmington Monday: Septemberl9, October 17 Seattle Friday: September 23, October 21 San Juan Thursday: September 8, October 6 St Louis :•"";^^;• Friday: September 16, October 14 Honolulu Friday: September 16, October 14 Duluth Wednesday: September 14, October 12 Jersey City Wednesday: September 21, October 19 ;^ New Bedford Tuesday: September 20, October 18 ' J.I -V ' :-f Each port's imeting starts at 10:30 ajn. Personals JAMES WESLEY ALLEN Please contact Jennifer Allen at (804) 559-4802. FRANK E. BLACK Warren E. Brown is looking fora former crewmember, Frank E. Black, who was bosun on the SS Robin Locksley in 1941. Please contact Warren Brown at 128 Countryside Drive, Longwood, PL 32779-3524; or call (407) 869-1794. RAYMOND BUSWALD Plase contact Leonard Smith at 203 N. Prospect Street, Oberlin, OH 44074. JAMES LUTHER BYRD Please get in touch with Robert Byrd Benny at P.O. Box 38487, Baltimore, MD 21231; or call (410) 5224572. ERIK VALDEMAR CARLSSON (KARLSSON) Please contact Elna S. Johanson at 6275 RoundhiU Drive, Whittier, CA 90605. Your granddaughter, Kaiin Johansson of Uddevalla, Sweden, is trying to locate you. EMILE HENRY Please contact Denise Kirkley Cain at 367 Sherman Street, Albany, NY 12206. LUCIEN PIERRE Please contact Ultra Powe at 7737 West Jackson Street, Pensacola, PL 32506; or call (904) 455-8383. RENALDO ROMAN Your wife, Leticia, would like you to call her at (614) 268-8513. JULIO SANTIAGO (of Catano, P.R.) Please contact Joseph Santiago at (407) 225-0593. ROBERT MARTIN SMITH Please contact Maurica Shapiro at P.O. Box 7260, Houston, TX 77248. EDWARD THOMASIAN Please contact Danielle Burd at P.O. Box 82084, Kenmore, WA 98028. ••..'J,-—•— -7-"' 77''; • ' • -l;., ^ - : , 'it' •. .1).;'• �:-i's"., • -:•• -A. -' •. '• <•» V '•,' -i '•'-' ' AUGUST im 18 SEAFARERS LOG Dispatchers Report for Great Lakes Seafarers International Union Directory f I i :A''A-. •• V' --•.; A.j Sij. St',-;' "• <% A/'" :.; :/- :A: : V • ••-A Michael Sao:o President John Fay Secretary-Treasurer Joseph Sacco Executive Vice President Augustin Tellez Vice President Collective Bargaining George McCartney Vice President West Coast Roy A. "Buck" Mercer Vice President Government Services Jack Caffey Vice President Atlantic Coast Byron Kelley Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey Vice President Gulf Coast HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301)899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr. Algonac, MI 48(X)1 (313)794-4988 BALTIMORE 1216 E. Baltimore SL Baltimore, MD 21202 (410)327-4900 DULUTH 705 Medical Arts Building Duluth,MN 55802 (218)722-4110 HONOI.ULU 606KalihiSt. Honolulu, HI 96819 (808)845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St. Houston, TX 77002 (713)659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St. Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904)353-0987 JERSEY CITY 99 Montgomery St. Jersey City, NJ 07302 (201)435-9424 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy. Mobile, AL 36605 (205)478^0916 NEW BEDFORD 48 Union St, New Bedford, MA 02740 (508) 997-5404 NEW ORLEANS 630 Jackson Ave. New Orleans, LA 70130 (504) 529-7546 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718)499-6600 NORFOLK 115ThirdSt. Norfolk, VA 23510 (804)622-1892 PHILADELPHIA 2604S.4St. Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75 Piney Point, MD 20674 (301)994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 2 West Dixie Highway Dania, FL 33004 (305)921-5661 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St. San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Government Services Division (415)861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fonandez Juncos Ave. Stop l6Vi Santurce, PR 00907 (809) 721-4033 SEATTLE 2505 First Ave. SeatUe, WA 98121 (206)441-1960 ST. LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave. St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave. Wilmington, CA 90744 (310)549-4000 JUNE 16 —JULY 15,1994 CL—Company/Lakes L—Lakes NP—Non Priority •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac 15 6 13 3 6 p-- 12 0 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP DECK DEPARTMENT 0 43 , 16 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 28 5 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 11 2 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 ••REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP 0 35 :8;| 0 24 4 ? 0 7 3 ? 0 25 29 •t- Totals All Departments 0 46 22 0 82 23 0 91 * "Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. ** "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. . 44 Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters JUNE 16 — JULY 15,1994 •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals 0 1 0 0 1 0 3 m12 15 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C DECK DEPARTMENT . 0 0 1 0 1 0 16 >2^ 32 2 38 4 33 55 ••REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 0 3 3 69 16 n 44 60 2 rt •V 3 7 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 1 M'o- u 0 1 0 0 0 7 1 1 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 0 1 ilfi 1 2 2 2 0 6 1 1 2 2 16 r 3 A' 0 2 0 3 0 0 2 2 5 0 8 13 99 11 4 18 68 6 36 101 Totals All Departments * "Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. ** "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. -1 ^ ^ ' 76 SIU BULLEniH ^ ^8. MERCHANT MARINE VETS FORM NEW CHAPTER IN WESTERN PA. ^ ^ UPDATE YOUR ADDRESS ^ If you recently moved or changed REMEMBER PAY / your name, it is necesssry to have your correct address on file with theSeafarers VOUCHERS WHEN FILING ; ;; Vacation Plan. FOR VACATIONS FROM A new chapter of the U.S. Merchant Ifyou have not yet notified the union, 5 Marine Veterans of World War II is MILITARY SHIPS go to your nearest union hall and fill out| being formed in Allegheny County, Pa. Any interested merchant marine veterans may contact retired Seafarer Pete Salvo, who is the public relations chairman for the new group, at P.O. Box 124,McKeesport,PA 15134, orat(412) 673-2115. Other chapters of the organization are based in Florida, Texas, Colorado, Michigan, Kansas and South Carolina. For information on any of those chap­ ters, call (310) 519-9545. ^ PORT ARTHUR, TEXAS MEMBERSHIP MEETING ON SEPTEMBER 7 A general informational Seafarers membership meeting will be held on Wednesday, September 7, 1994 at 2:00 p.m. It will take place at the Ramada Inn on Highway 87 in Fort Arthur. Contact the Houston SIU hall for fhrther information. • Seafarers who have sailed aboard / a change of address form or send your| new address (along with your name, | military vessels which have a service book number and social security num- $ contract act (SCA) or a Reserve Operat­ ber) to: Address Control, Seafarers In- i ing Status (ROS) component should ternational Union, 5201 Auth Way, provide copies of their pay vouchers Camp Sprij^s, MD 20746. when filing for vacation benefits related to employment on these ships. U.S. Coast Guard discharges from these firms % / ^ do not show exact dates of employment, "iEAT BRITAIN OFFERS so the pay vouchers must be submitted MEDALS TO N. ATLANTIC i as well. WWII MARINERS | Applications submitted without copies of pay vouchers will be held in a The British Chamber of Shipping is = pending status until the proper verifica­ offering a special badge to honor the tion is received. merchant mariners who sailed in the :-'3 Battle for the North Atlantic during World War II. In order to receive the recognition, send a cover letter explain­ ing service with name and address, a copy of the DD 214 military discharge and copies of discharge papers or a list of the ships and voyages taken across the North Atlantic to: British Chamber of Shipping; 2-5 Minories; London EC3 NIBJ,, England. •' -.1 �:;:w. •-t AUGUST 1994 'T.- SEAFAREHSUUG tnong the jawing number Xajof SIU pensioners this month are 32 members of the Seafarers who have retired after many years of sailing the world's waterways. Three of the pensioners joined the union in the 1940s after World War II: Robert A. Cook, 1946; Emiiio Sierra, 1945; and Clyde J. Smith Jr., 1946. Twenty-two of those signing off sailed in the deep sea division, five in the inland division, three on the Great Lakes, and two in the Railroad Marine division. Brothers Isaac R. Fletcher and Weldon Wallace completed the Steward Recertification pro­ gram at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md., and Brothers Emiiio Sierra and Clyde J. Smith graduated from the Bosun Recertification program. Of the retiring Seafarers, 19 served in the U.S. military: nine in the Navy, eight in the Army, and one each in the Air Force and Marine Corps. Short biographical accounts of Brothers Cook, Sierra, Smith, Fletcher, Wallace and the other new pensioners follow. DEEP SEA ROBERT R. BUNCH, 57, graduated from the Andrew Furuseth School in Brooklyn, N.Y. in 1963. Brother Bunch was active in a num­ ber of union beefs. From 1968 to 1975, he sailed on vessels engaged in Vietnam sealift efforts. He upgraded frequently at the Lun­ deberg School. Brother Bunch par­ ticipated in Operation Desert Storm in 1991. He sailed in the en­ gine department. His last ship was the UST Pacific in 1993. Brother Bunch served in the U.S. Army from 1952 to 1961. Bom in the state of Kentucky, Brother Bunch has retired to Knoxville, Term. To Our New Pensioners ... Thanks for a Job Well Done Each month in the Seafarers LOG, the names of SIU members who recently have become pensioners appear with a brief biographical sketch. These men and women have served the maritime industry well, and the SIU and all their union brothers and sisters wish them happiness and health in the days ahead. ROBERT A. COOK, 66, joined the Seafarers in 1946 in the port of New York. He sailed in the steward department. Brother Cook served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1951 to 1953. He was bom in Wisconsin and currently resides in Maryland. KENNETH DOUGLAS, 68, began sailing with the SIU in 1964 in the port of New York. He sailed in the deck department. Bom in Denver, Colo., Brother Douglas served in the U.S. Navy from 1944 to 1953. He has retired to Seattle, Wash. BURR G. EELLS, 65, joined the Seafarers in 1968 in the port of Cleveland, Ohio. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Bells served in the U.S. Army from 1948 to 1952. Bom in New York, he has retired to San Francisco, Calif. FERNAN­ DEZ MALDONADO, 69, was bom in Puerto Rico. He began sailing with the union in 1966 in the port of New York. The steward department member upgraded at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. in 1982. Brother Maldonado calls Puerto Rico home. JOHNNIE McCREE JR., 68, joined the Seafarers in 1955 in the port of Baltimore, Md. He sailed in the steward department. Brother McCree served in the U.S. Army from 1953 to 1955. Bom in Alabama, Brother McCree has retired to Califomia. ROBERT E. MEALOR, 56, was bom in Miami, Fla. and began sailing with the union in 1965 from the port of Jack­ sonville, Fla. He sail^ in the en-' gine department. Brother Mealor upgraded frequently at the Lun­ deberg School in Piney Point, Md. He served in the U.S. Army from 1956 to 1959. Brother Mealor will remain in Jacksonville. ISAAC R. FLETCHER, 65, began sail­ ing with the Seafarers in 1967 in the port of Wil­ mington, Calif. He sailed in the steward department. Brother Fletcher upgraded at the GERALD T. Lundeberg School and completed the steward recertification program PAYNE, 70, joined the in 1981. Bom in Kentucky, SIU in 1970 Brother Fletcher now lives in in the port of Alabama. New York. He sailed in FRANK H. FOSTER, 64, was LESLIE H. bom in Roseville, Mich. He joined the engine COVERT department. the SIU in 1961 in the port of San JR., 66, Brother Payne upgraded frequently Francisco, Calif. Brother Foster joined the at the Lundeberg School. Bom in sailed in the engine department. union in 1968 Niagara Falls, N.Y.„ Brother Payne He upgraded at the Lundeberg in the port of has retired to Florida. School. Brother Foster served in Seattle. Bom the U.S. Army in 1953. He makes in Pennsyl­ EMILIO his home in Califomia. vania, he SIERRA, 66, sailed in the deck department. began sailing Brother Covert served in the U.S. ADRIAN J. with the Navy. He has retired to Washing­ JANACEK, Seafarers in ton state. 72, began 1945 in the sailing with port of New SAM A. the SIU in York. The CROSBY, 1967 in the Pennsylvania 65, began sail­ port of Seattle, native sailed in the deck depart­ ing with the Wash. A na­ ment. He received a personal SIU in 1965 tive of safety award recognizing his part in his home Tacoma, in making the SS Steel Architect an port of New Wash., he sailed in the deck depart­ accident-free ship during the first Orleans. He ment. Brother Janacek served in half of 1960. Brother Sierra sailed in the the U.S. Navy from 1940 to 1945. upgraded frequently at the Lun­ deck department. Brother Crosby He has retired to Seattle. deberg School, graduating from the continues to live in Louisiana. bosun recertification course in 1976. Brother Sierra makes his PAUL DOMINGO LABORDE, home in Califomia. 59, joined the DIAZ, 65, joined the Sea­ SIU in 1959 CLYDE J. farers in 1943 in the port of SMITH JR., in his native Lake Charles, 64, joined the La. He sailed Puerto Rico. union in 1946 He retired his in both the en­ in Mobile, book in 1960 gine and Ala. He sailed and signed up steward departments. Brother Lain the deck again with the union in 1977. Borde upgraded his steward depart­ department. Brother Diaz sailed in the deck ment rating in 1983. He served in Brother Smith department. He served in the U.S. the U.S. Army in 1957. Brother successfully completed the bosun Navy from 1942 to 1944. Brother LaBorde has retired to his native recertification course at the union's Diaz has retired to Luquillo, P.R. state of Louisiana. school in Piney Point in 1980. D He still calls his native Alii'bama home. EMERSON WALKER, 63, began sail­ ing with the Seafarers in 1966 in the port of San Francisco. He sailed in the engine department. The Ohio na­ tive upgraded at the Lundeberg School in 1979. Brother Walker served in the U.S. Air Force from 1951 to 1955. He has retired to Califomia. WELDON WALLACE, 65, joined the union in 1961 in the port of San Francisco. He sailed in the steward department. Brother Wal­ lace upgraded at the Lundeberg School and completed the steward recertification program in 1984. Bom in Bethlehem, Penn., he has retired to New York. JAMES P. WATSON, 65, was bom in Louisiana and began sailing with the SIU in 1961 in the port of New Orleans. He sailed in the deck department. He has retired to Louisiana. GORDON D. WHEELER, 63, joined the Seafarers in 1955 in his na­ tive Bal­ timore, Md. He sailed in the steward department. Brother Wheeler served in the U.S. Army from 1953 to 1955. He currently resides in Texas. NICKOLAOS ZERVOS, 65, was bom in Andros, Greece. The naturalized U.S. citizen joined the SIU in 1968 in the port of New York. He sailed in the deck depart­ ment. Brother Zervos upgraded at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point in 1973 and 1981. He calls New York home. INLAND JAMES O. CARAWAN, 64, started sailing with the Seafarers in 1973 in the port of Nor­ folk, Va. He sailed in the deck department Brother Carawan served in the U.S. Army from 1951 to 1952. He has retired to his na­ tive home state of North Carolina. 19 •W WILLIAM CARLTON, 62, joined the SIU in 1972 in the port of Norfolk, Va. He^smledin the steward department Brother Carlton served in the U.S. Navy from 1947 to 1972. Bom in Atlanta, Ga., he has retired to Vir­ ginia. FRANCIS P. PRIMEAUX, 63, began sail­ ing with the SIU in 1964 in the port of Port Arthur, Texas. He last sailed as a tug­ boat captain. Brother Primeaux makes his home in his native Louisiana. EDWARD F.QUINN, 70, began sail­ ing with the union in 1976 in the port of Port Arthur, Texas. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Quinn was bom in Boston, Mass. and has retired to Texas. • • .''i- "I 'W VICTOR TIGETT, 65, joined the •Seafarers in 1965 in the port of Houston, Texas. Brother Tigett sailed in the engine department. The New York native served in the U.S. Army from 1950 to 1952. He currently resides in Texas. m. GREAT LAKES RICHARD LAURENTY, 62, a native of Cleveland, Ohio, began sailing with the SIU in 1961 in that port city. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1951 to 1955. Brother Laurenty continues to live in Ohio. t DONALD L. MASKELL, 56, was bom in Alpena, Mich. He joined the union in 1964 in the port of Detroit. Brother Maskell sailed in the deck department. He has retired to Michigan. WILLIAM H. MCDOWELL, 63, joined the Seafarers in 1961 in his home town of Buffalo, N.Y. He sailed in the deck department Brother McDowell served in the U.S. Navy from 1951 to 1955. He continues to reside in New York. •: ... y •£ RAILROAD MARINE WILLIAM E. GRIMSLEY, 65, joined the union in 1956 in the port of New York. Brother Grimsley sailed in the deck department. He worked aboard a float bridge from 1956 to 1968 and was last woiking with the Pennsylvania Railroad in 1992. Brother Grimsley has retired to New Jersey. RALPH J. SCOTT, 69, a native of Alabama, joined the Seafarers in 1960 in the port of New York. He sailed in the deck department Brother Scott served in the U.S. Navy from 1943 to 1947. He makes his home in Tennessee. CORRECTION In April's edition of the Seafarers LOG, new pensioner Arnold Perry was incorrectly identified as having joined the union in 1956. Brother Perry, 65, joined the Seafarers in 1944 in the port of Buffalo, N.Y. He has retired to New Bedford. Mass. '''' I'.':';- • �.. "ftf'-i?.. rr..'; y. • 20 AUGUST 1994 SSAFARERSLOG ' ' . Recalling Last Year's Flooding, Orgulf Crews Thankful For Good Weather The summer sailing season is in full swing for Seafarers aboard Orgulf tugboats along the Missis­ sippi River and its tributaries. Unlike last year when severe flooding forced vessels to tie up along the upper Mississippi, Missouri and Illinois rivers, SIU crews have been working steadily to move grain, coal, mulch, scrap and oAer dry cargo. "So far, we haven't had time to slow down," noted Lead Deckhand Sheldon Wing aboard the tugboat Bob Labdon. "The crew has remained busy, and that is good for all of us." The Bob Labdon operates on both the upper and lower portions of the Mississippi. The river has an unofficial dividing line at the company's Moore's Landing, Mo. staging area. North of Moore's Land­ ing, the Bob Labdon and other Orgulf boats can push up to 15 barges, conditions permitting. South of Moore's Landing, those vessels able to navigate -^TT-^ r:: that portion of the Mississippi are able to push as many as 35 barges. Echoing Wing's assessment of the 1994 sailing season is fellow Lead Deckhand Richard Sager of the tugboat Dave Carlton. "It's great to be back out here working without having to worry about the weather like last year," Sager said. Like the Bob Labdon, the Dave Carlton also navigates the full Mississippi. Meanwhile, the same sentiments are found aboard Orgulf tugs like the Omar, that sail only on the upper Mississippi as well as the Illinois and Ohio rivers. "We' ve had no problems so far this year," said Utilityman Mark Elmore from the Omar. "All of the crew is glad to be working without the restric­ tions caused by the flooding." ; -y c. '-7- 'V- ' Deckhand Greg Stampley Checking out the galley Donning his life jacket to Omar's Lead Deckhand, Heading for the galley Lead Deckhand Richard Cook Stephen Strove is inspects the SobLabdon on the Omaris Deckhand work on the Omar is Garry Gillispie, gets for sorriething to eat is Sager checks on barges hard at work preparing a deck before shoving off. Tommie Mitchell Jr. Utilityman Mark Elmore, some' papenwbrk done. Omar Mate •• ! Eddie Lairt. being pushed by Carfton. meal in the Omargalley. Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership's money and union finances. The con­ stitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to besubmitted tothe member­ ship by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by the member­ ship, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recoirimendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate find­ ings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District are ad­ ministered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management repre­ sentatives and their alternates. All ex­ penditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member's shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know dieir shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and avail­ able in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as con­ tained in the contracts between the union and the employe's, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU mem­ ber woiks and lives aboard a ship or boat Members should know their con­ tract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for ovalime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the politi­ cal purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its col­ lective membaship. This established policy has been reaffirmed by member­ ship action at the S^tember 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supply­ ing a receipt, or if a member is requir^ to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU constitution are available inall union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its con­ tents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitu­ tional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with char­ ges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify head­ quarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. TTiese rights are clearly set forth in the SIU constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Con­ sequently, no member may be dis­ criminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION — SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, further­ ing the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with im­ proved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advan­ cement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No con­ tribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of member­ ship in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by cer­ tified mail within 30 days of the con­ tribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if in­ voluntary. A member should sup­ port SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and so­ cial interests, and American trade union concepts. If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional light of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers Intemational Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. �V'rt?. • -'•'AC- AUGUST 1994 tional Director Paul Wolf, Engine Delegate Kevin Conklin, Steward Delegate Patricia Ballance. Educa tional director talked about SIU scholarship program as a benefit Seafarers and their dependents. The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union ship­ for He also stressed importance of board minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space upgrading skills at Lundeberg limitations, some win be omitted. School. Treasurer announced $500 ship's fund. No beefs or dis­ Ships minutes first are reviewed by the union's contract department. in puted OT reported by all three Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the departments. Steward department union upon receipt of the ships minutes. The minutes are then given vote of thanks for great job. forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. It was mentioned that Chief Cook Ballance is going on vacation and will be missed. Crewmembers sug­ BROOKS RANGE(lOM), May Delegate Gary Cardillo, Steward gested having a baggage room for 31 —Secretary Peter Schulz, Delegate Alonzo Belcher. Educa­ regular crews. Next port: Arun, In­ Steward Delegate Anthony tional director advised crewmem­ donesia. Rivera. Disputed OT reported by bers to keep home address current deck delegate. No beefs or dis­ with union headquarters. He has NUEVO SAN JUAN(PRMMl), puted OT reported in engine or change of address cards and all June 5—Chairman Jerry Borucki, steward departments. Crewmemother SIU forms on board. No Educational Director Gerald bers requested clarification from beefs or disputed OT reported by Daley, Deck Delegate Porfirio L. contracts department on time off. all departments., Sambula, Treasurer Jesse Next Port: El Segundo, Calif. Cintron, Engine Delegate Miguel SEA-LAND VALUE (Sea-Land Rulldn. Chief steward reminded CONSTELLATION (Maersk Service), May 27—Chairman crewmembers of non-smoking Lines), May 26—Chairman Brad­ Domingo Leon Jr., Secretary policy during meals. He thanked ford H. Shelly, Secretary Don Wil­ M.T. St George, Deck Delegate crew for keeping mess hall clean. liams. Chairman thanked deck Michael Moore, Educational No beefs or disputed OT reported department for job well done. He Director S.B. Miller, Steward by department delegates. Everyone noted new relief list posted on bul­ Delegate E. Verveniotis. Educa­ was urged to sign up for upgrading tional director reminded members letin board and vacation forms are classes at Piney Point which could of increased earning opportunities available. Educational director lead to better pay and career advan­ stressed importance of attending available by attending upgrading cement. Members and their upgrading courses at Lundeberg courses at Lundeberg School. Dis­ families also can use facilities at puted OT reported in deck depart­ School in Piney Point, Md. Piney Point for two-week surnmer ment. No beefs or disputed OT Treasurer announced $547.45 in vacations. The importance of con­ ship's fund. Crewmembers re­ reported in engine and steward tributing to SPAD was stressed, as quested clarification from contracts departments. Crewmembers noted maritime legislation now is being department on ammo pay from last need for new furniture, dryer and debated on Capitol Hill. Steward two trips which involved carrying TV. Vote of thanks given to department given vote of thanks highly explosive cargo. Chief steward and his gang for job well for preparing excellent food. Next Cook F.P. Umali given vote of done. Next port: Elizabeth, N.J. port: San Juan, P.R. thanks for great food. DSNS WILKES (Bay Ship ITS JACKSONVILLE (Sheridan Management), May 22—Chairman OOCL INNOVATION(Sea-Land Service), June 5—Chairman Allan Transportation), May 21—Chair­ Jerry Hill, Educational Director A. Rogers, Secretary Jonny Cruz, Gary M. Dahl, Engine Delegate man Luke Wells, Deck Delegate Education^ Director R.L. Tannis, David Partikian, Engine Delegate D.P. Gaudeau, Steward Delegate Deck Delegate Mark Lamar, En­ William Lockett Chairman Ron Micklos, Steward Delegate gine Delegate Robert Brown, Rudolf Shields. Chairman dis­ reminded crewmembers of neces­ Steward Delegate Gwendolyn sity of separating plastic items cussed memorandum of under­ Shinholster. Chairman announced from regular trash. He noted that standing between SIU and payoff in Elizabeth, N.J. He also previous problem with chairs in Sheridan Transportation. Crewtalked about dark clouds facing crew mess sliding around was members were reminded to help maritime industry—and one way to fixed, along with other furniture in steward department by keeping protect union jobs is by voting and need of repair. Awaiting new table or dis­ mess hall clean. No beefs SPAD. Secretary supporting puted OT reported by deck, engine for crew mess. Educational director reminded everyone that Lundeberg encouraged members to upgrade and steward departments. Next School is great place to spend sum­ port: St. Croix, V.I. skills at Paul Hall Center. mer vacation time with family. It is Treasurer announced $498 in also a good place to upgrade skills OMI SACRAMENTO (Vulcan), ship's fund. Letter to SIU head­ in order to handle any new job on­ May 29—Chairman Ray Gorju, quarters was written, seeking board ships. Educational director Secretary Matthew Scott, Engine clarification on tours of duty. Crew­ Delegate Robert Caldwell, members reported good food being advised crew to wear hard hats when going ashore or on dock in Steward Delegate Anderson Jor­ served aboard ship. Would like a Rotterdam because of new rule that Chairman noted ship com­ dan Jr. BBQ on fantail. Chief steward went into effect in May. No beefs pleted long voyage and thanked all agreed and deck department will or disputed OT reported by the crewmembers on behalf of captain fabricate tables. Next port: Pusan, deck, engine and steward depart­ for Job well done. Secretary added South Korea. ments. Vote of thanks given to special thanks to all crew for profes­ steward department for job well GLOBAL SENTINEL (Tran­ sional attitude. Educational director done. Steward, in turn, thanked soceanic), June 17—Chairman encouraged members to take ad­ crew for keeping ship clean and vantage of union's upgrading facility Joseph J. Olson, Secretary Ken­ neth D. Rosiek, Educational Direc­ making trip a pleasant one. Chief at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer an­ Cook Shinholster mentioned that tor Marvin D. Wells, Deck nounced $590 in ship's fund. Beefs GSU James Tyson did great job Delegate Richard Barron, reported in engine and steward Steward Delegate Brian Lindsley. and was very helpful. Next port: departments. No beefs or disputed Boston, Mass. Chairman announced pilot being OT reported by deck delegate. Ship picked up for entry into Seattle will go into layup in next port. Port OVERSEAS ARCTIC (Maritime where crew will have payoff. Will Orange, Texas. Overseas), June 8—Chairman JJf. call union hall for patrolman. Williams, Secretary Kerry T. SEA-LAND CHALLENGER Educational director urged mem­ Roby, Engine Delegate Kevin F. (Sea-Land Service), May 8—Chair­ bers to take advantage of upgrad­ Moon, Steward Delegate Juan man Roy Williams, Secretary Her­ ing courses at Piney Point and to Gonzales. Chairman announced bert Scypes, Educational Director read new contract for changes. pay off in port of St. Croix. No H.C. Chancey. Secretary noted Treasurer announced $97 in ship's beefs or disputed OT reported by need to talk to patrolman at upcom­ fund. Disputed OT reported in three department delegates. All ing payoff regarding OT beef in deck and engine departments. No communications, including department. Educational steward beefs or disputed OT reported in Seafarers LOGs and activities director reminded crewmembers of steward department. With ship reports, are in crew lounge. Crew importance of contributing to going into dry dock, members were asked contracts department to look SPAD and Maritime Defense reminded that company is under no into increasing dental and optical League, and of upgrading skills at_, obligation to pay way back to ship benefits as well as the length of Piney Point, Di.scussion was held after layoff. It's different for those time per trip. Vote of thanks given to ask contracts department about going on vacation, but members to steward department for good improvements to dental and optical must re-claim jobs at Seattle hall. ob. Suggestion was made to have plans. Crewmembers gave vote of Deck department was commended ship fumigated to get rid of roaches. thanks to steward department for for good job of removing tar from hard work. One minute of silence ship's decks. Vote of thanks and was observed in memory of OVERSEAS OH/O(Maritime commendation given to steward departed brothers and sisters. Next Overseas), June 8—Chairman department for exceptional job. Robert Pagan, Secretary Earl N. port: Elizabeth, N.J. New VCR received aboard ship. Gray Sr., Educational Director Everyone was reminded to return SEA-LAND PERFORMANCE Michael Ribeiro, Engine Delegate movie tapes when done. Karl Benes, Steward Delegate (Sea-Land Service), May 29LNG GEMINI (ETC), June 15— Duane R. Bergeson. Chairman inChairman Allan Hitt, Secretary Chairman Ramli Mohamcd, fonned crewmembers there should Mclvin W. Hite, Educational Secretary Kris A. Hopkins, Educa­ be no mixing of oily rags and Director Dan John.son, Deck Digest of Ships Meetings SEAFARERS LOG paper with plastic items to go ashore. Only clean plastic should be sent, or ship could be fined. He reminded all hands to be con­ siderate in passageways as others may be sleeping. Secretary advised members of his upcoming vacation and wished them continued smooth sailing. He reminded them of educational opportunities available at Lundeberg School. Disputed OT reported in deck department. En­ gine and steward departments reported no beefs or disputed OT. All running smoothly. Request was made for new rec room and dining room furniture, as well as new microwave oven, toaster and coffee maker. Next port: Long Beach, CaUf. OVERSEAS WASHINGTON (Maritime Overseas), June 5Chairman T. Koebel, Secretary Robert Miller, Engine Delegate Kevin Wray, Steward Delegate 21 • his department. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported in deck or en­ gine departments. Vote of thanks given to steward and deck depart­ ments for jobs well done. Next port: Oakland, Calif. SEA-LAND INDEPENDENCE (Sea-Land Semce), June 5—Chair­ man Stephen Rasmussen, Secretary Nancy S. Heyden, Educational Director Bozidar Balic, Deck Delegate George Fries, Steward Delegate Daniel Maxie Sr. Chairman said ship has good crew and everyone is doing good job. He thanked steward department for their fine meals. Secretary reminded members to lock up movie cabinets and crew lounge when in port. Educational director stressed importance of upgrading skills in Piney Point. He also asked everyone to be con­ siderate of others by rewinding movies when finished and putting Deck Crew Welcomes Member Aboard While the MV Courierv/as docked at the Northville Terminal in Linden, N.J., AS Napoleon San Martin (right) is welcomed aboard by AB Brad Seibel (left) and Bosun Stephen Argay. V .''"T Steve Soofi. Chairman urged mernbers to write their congressional representatives regarding H.R. 4()03, the merchant marine revitalization bill. Secretary also noted that in order for these letters to have any impacf member should be registered voter. Chair­ man relayed message from captain that if crewmembers do not leave doors to rooms open, they cannot be cleaned. No b^fs or disputed OT reported by department delegates. Smoking hours in crew lounge were discussed and revised. Vote of thanks given to steward department for excellent fare. Next port: Homer, Alaska. them back in their jackets. Treasurer will check with captain to see if there is any money in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported by the three depart­ ment delegates. Copies of Seafarers LOGs received in Hong Kong. Crewmembers were advised to read them for current union news. Clarification was requested from headquarters regarding break for quartermaster. All hands voted to start a movie fund next trip in Kaohsiung. A special minute of silence was observed for shipmate John Shaw's wife who passed away at beginning of trip. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. SEA-LAND DEVELOPER (SeaLand Service), June 2—Chairman Dana Cella, Secretary Lincoln Finn, Educational Director John T. Ross, Deck Delegate Timothy L. Smith, Engine Delegate Jeffrey Murray, Steward Delegate Michael Linus. Chairman advised members that washing machine was ordered and is expected in port of Tacoma. He also encouraged crew to upgrade their maritime skills at Paul Hall Center and keep the union strong by supporting SPAD. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck, engine and steward delegates. Crewmembers requested contracts department ook into increase in dental benefits for themselves and families. Mem)ers would like to be informed if ^undeberg School will be provid­ ing outport hazmat training so they can renew their endorsements. Mext port: Tacoma, Wash. SEA-LAND PACIFIC (Sea-Land Service), June 19—Chairman Lother Reck, Secretary George M. Bronson, Educational Director Brett Landls, Deck Delegate Julius Udan, Engine Delegate Al­ fonso Bomhita Jr., Steward Delegate Rang V. Nguyen. Chair­ man mentioned Teamster's strike with Sea-Land and congratulated Teamsters on their win. He reminded crew that engineers have new 60-day contract extension. He advised members to meet with SIU patrolman before paying off. Wiper was thanked for waxing crew deck and lounge area, and steward department was thanked for keep­ ing mess hall and crew lounge clean. Secretary noted success of second cookout this trip due in large part to fresh tuna and special cut of short ribs from ashore. He thanked all those involved. Educa­ tional director talked about safety while working on deck. He also urged members to attend upgrading courses at Lundeberg School and to donate to SPAD. Treasurer an­ nounced over 500 movies aboard ship. There is $40 in movie fiind and $355 in ship's fund, and mem­ bers agreed to spend some of it for buying shelves for new movies. Disputed OT reported in deck SEA-LAND HA WAII(Sea-Land Service), June 19—Chairman James Foley, Secretary D. Spangler, Deck Delegate James A. Speer. Chairman reminded crewmembers not to overload washing machine with clothes or soap. Crew was asked to keep TV volume down during meal hour. Steward delegate reported beef in Continued on page 22 I-: :>li" i- . /:• ''V If •. jtv • -«S-. �22 AUGUSri994 SEAFARBRSLOG Upgrader Koonce Stays True to Word When Darrel Koonce set sail from Gibraltar for Saudi Arabia aboard the USNS Capella in June 1991, he told the woman he was dating that he would be back to marry her. "1 had heard all those stories about seaman saying they ^Vould come back, and you never hear from them again," noted Koonce's wife of two years, Dolly. In fact, he alrriost lived up to the reputation that others had said would happen. "There were no calls or letters for five months," she told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG while Koonce hung his head and nodded in agreement. But in November 1991, right after Koonce signed off the Capella, he returned to Gibraltar. After Dolly overcame the initial disbelief that he had returned, the couple resumed dating and were married within a few months. Koonce, who recently upgraded to able seaman at the Paul Hall Center, gave up sailing for a short time to stay in Gibraltar. He was offered several maritime-related jobs but they were not as good as the ones he held after graduating from the Lundeberg School's trainee program in 1990. Darrel came back to the States in 1992 with his wife, who was bom in India but who spent the last five years in Europe. Again, he tried his hand at other jobs, including construction, but ultimately returned to the sea. Darrel, Doily and seven-week-old Devin Koonce relax in the lobby of the Lundeberg School Training and Recreation Center as Darrel takes a break while upgrading to able seaman. "The money and jobs just weren't there," recalled Koonce, who has sailed primarily on tankers since returning. "Besides, I missed sailing. We talked it over and I came back. "I didn't know what I had with the Seafarers until I left. I'm glad I'm back." Voyage to Gdynia: by Ralph Lundgren Continued from page 12 our way to 'Tom's beer joint," I think about Sister Czestawa. Chessie, she says we can call her. What's her secret? Is it faith that gives her the strength to smile in the face of death and in the misery with which she lives? If not, what gives her the inner peace she seems to have? Scott and Smokestack Healy seem to have the same inner peace. Why? Have the Sisters of Mercy found a safe harbor in their order? Like sailors wedded to their union and their ships? All this is too abstract for me. So, I fall back in with my shipmates and swallow some beer. Sister of Mercy, she tells us. But that alone doesn't explain the power she seems to have to make us all somehow better than we really are. "I leave you now," she smiles. "Don't stay too long." And then she's gone. Wincing, Web grabs the head of his bed and pulls himself away from his girdling cast. He swears, and then says, "They really need soap." Web tries a grin, remind­ ing us, "There's boxes of it in the hold. Sheets too." Sister Chessie's even made a saint out of Web. And in this state of,un­ September 29—the 26th accustomed holiness, we leave day: Tomorrow we sail, leave him. Gdynia, the first foreign port in Passing the Russian graves on which I've been for any length of time. A lot has happened to me here. I will leave something of myself behind. But I'll take with me more than I've lost here, if I've lost anything at all. Lying in my bunk, I see Sister Chessie shush­ ing Web with a few words and the touch of her hand. I see the soft sad smile with which she looked on us, a rowdy bank of deckhands until she walked in that narrow room and changed us into boys again. We've seen her every day since Web was in that hospital. Si^er Czestawa Herchowski was able She's done a lot for Web, become to send a letter to her brother via Lundgren and his crewmates. a sort of older sister to all of us. Ships Digest Continued from page 21 b.;.-' •«* department. No beefs or disputed OT reported in engine and steward departments. Vote of thanks given to steward department, especially to Rang V. Nguyen of Seattle. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. SEA-LAND RELIANCE (SeaLand Service), June 2—Chairman A. Eckert, Secretary G. Sivley, Educational Director A. Jaramillo. Chairman advised members of payoff in Tacoma, Wash. He asked that all crewmembers return movies to locker before getting off and thanked them for smooth trip. No beefs or disputed OT reported by department delegates. Seafarers LOGs received aboard ship. Vote of thanks given to steward depart­ ment for great food. SEA-LAND TACOMA (SeaLand Service), June 21—Chairman T.M. Murphy, Secretary Harry E. Lively, Educational Director C. Piper, Deck Delegate Sean O'Doherty, Engine Delegate Charles H. Kennedy, Steward Delegate M. Buhaker. Chairman reported on new cost of living adjustment, ef­ fective July 1, 1994. Secretary noted that seven to nine passengers were aboard last two trips. Every­ thing went smoothly. Educational director urged crewmembers to use facilities available at Lundeberg School. Treasurer announced $370 in ship's fund. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported in deck, engine and steward departments. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. When we came to take Web back to the ship, she asked us to do something for her. But she was shy about asking, as if we didn't owe her anything. "Look," she began, "excuse me..." then very formally asked if we could do her a favor. We all said yes at once, then lost our voices. That long narrow hospital room suddenly filled with silence. "Please," Sister Chessie said quietly, 'T have a brother in America. He hasn't heard a word from me for years. I know he thinks I'm dead." She brought three envelopes and some money from her pock­ et. "I've written him. All the same letter in each of these. But there's no way I can mail them. Mail? We have had none since the Germans. Could you take them for me? Mail them in America?" She held out her en­ velopes in one hand, her money in the either. We stood silent around her until Tom took her letters. "We don't need money. Sister," he told her for all of us. "We're heading for New York," Tom said. "We'll be there in a month. Three days after we land, these letters'll be in Baltimore. We promise you." She hugged Tom like a brother. That hug was for all of us, I know. I'll never forget her, I promise myself. Never; 147 '®ti Clfrtafmas The heat and humidity of summer may not make you think about the holiday season just yet, but the Seafarers LOG must plan ahead for its December edition. And one of the features of that edition that has been extremely well received over the past three years is the inclusion of holiday greetings. Active and retired Seafarers-as well as their family members-are invited to send their greetings to friends, shipmates and loved ones through the pages of the LOG. The procedure is simple. In 25 words or less (and in your neatest PRINTING possible), write the message in the space provided below. All (legible) greetings that are written in the holiday spirit will be included in the December 1994 issue of the Seafarers LOG, if they are received in time. The LOG reserves the right to print one greeting per sender. Others will be run only if space permits. The deadline for receipt of the holiday messages is Mon­ day, November 14, 1994. Send them by mail to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. After November 1, facsimile copies will be accepted. The fax number is (301) 702-4407. Forms also may be filled out in any union hall and turned in to the official at the counter—or may be given to the boarding patroman at a vessel's payoff, r (PLEASE PRINT OR TYPE) To: From: Message:, ULTRASEA (Sealift), June 5- Chairman M.A, Noble, Secretary Timothy J. Dowd. Chairman an­ nounced arrival and payoff in New Orleans, La. He thanked Chief Cook Francisco Monsibais and rest of steward department for job well done over past voyages. Treasurer stated $56 in ship's fund. Suggestion was made to buy new movies since next trip will be long. Steward delegate reported disputed OT in his department. No beefs or disputed OT in deck or engine depart­ ments. With additional riders aboard, suggestion made to get new washing machine. Sugges­ tion also made to use spare rooni for riders, not AB or oiler's rooms. Repairs needed aboard ship include fixing of galley ovens and range. Check the block which describes your status with the SlU: • Active Seafarer CI Family Member of Active Seafarer • Retired Seafarer • Family Member of Retired Seafarer Send your greeting to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. The greeting should be received at the LOG office by Monday, November 14, 1994. 8/94 �•:>- •': • '- • •' '"•• •." r""',.•': -31 AimST1994 SEAFAHERS LOG Final Departures DEEP SEA the U.S. Air Force from 1948 to 1951. Brother Edwards began receiving his pension in January 1986. AGATONANDREZ Pensioner Agaton Andrez, 94, passed away May 10, 1993. Brother Andrez joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1946, before that union merged with the SIU's Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District (AGLIWD). Brother Andrez began receiving his pension in March 1965. THOMAS D.CRAIG Pensioner Thomas D. Crag, 88, passed away April 12. He join^ the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1944 before that union merged with the AGLIWD. Brother Craig retired in August 1969. HARRY EGOLF Pensioner Harry Egolf, 70, passed away June 1. Bom in Hickory, Pa., he began his sailing career with the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1945 before that union merged with the AGLIWD. Brother Egolf retired in Novemba: 1974. JAMES E. BARKER Pensioner James E. Barker, 83, died May 6. A Pennsylvania na­ tive, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1941, before that union merged with the AGLIWD. Brother Barker served in the military from 1935 to 1945. He retired in March 1977. DANIEL H.FERRAS Pensioner Daniel H. Ferras, 59, died June 8. Bom in Cuba, he be­ came a U.S. citizen and joined the SIU in New Orleans in 1%8. Brother Ferras sailed in the deck department. He began receiving his pension in May 1991. BENAIABERBERENA Brother Benaia Berberena, 52, passed away June 28. Bom in Puerto Rico, he signed on with th^ SIU in 1969 in Piney Point, Md. after completing the Lundeberg School's training course for entry level seamen. Brother Berberena sailed in the deck . department and upgraded at Piney Point in 1981. He was ac­ tive in union activities in San Francisco. JOHN L. BUCKLEY Pensioner John L. Buckley, 80, died June 1. Bom in San Francisco, Calif., he began his sailing career in 1953 in the port of Boston. Brother Buckley sailed in the engine department. In 1976 he upgraded his rating to QMED. He served in the U.S. Army from 1937 to 1940. Brother Buckley began receiving his pension in August 1979. HARRY GOORWrrZ Pensioner Harry Goorwitz, 81, died November 6,1992. Brother Goorwitz joined &e Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1937, before that union merged with the AGLIWD. He sailed aboard Matson and Anterican President Lines vessels. Brother Goorwitz began receiving his pension in December 1969. HOWARD R. HARVEY Pensioner Howard R. Harvey, 69, passed away June 19. Bom in Michigan, he joined the Seafarers in 1958 in the port of Seattle. Brother Harvey sailed in the deck department He upgraded at the Lundeberg School in 1975. Brother Harvey served in the U.S. Army in 1950. He retired in May 1986. JOHNR.CHEELY Pensioner, John R. Cheely, 67, passed away June 11. A native of New York, he joined the Seafarers in 1947 in the port of New York. He sailed in the engine depart­ ment Brother Cheely upgraded at the Lundeberg School. He retired in January 1992. EDWARD KELLY SR. Pensioner Ed­ ward Kelly Sr., 74, passed away June 20. A native of Theodore, Ala., he join^ the SIU in 1949 in the port of New York. Brother Kelly sailed in the steward department. He successfully com­ pleted the steward recertification program at the Lundeberg School in 1981. He served in the U.S. Army fiom 1943 to 1946. Brother Kelly retiied in April 1984. PATRICK J. CLEARY Pensioner / Patrick J. Cleary, 74, died May 22. Bom in New York City, he began his sailing career with die Seafarers in 1952 in the port of Galveston, Texas. Brother Cleary sailed in the engine department. He began receiving his pension in Novem­ ber 1981. GERALD EDWARDS Pensioner Gerald Ed­ wards, 69, died Novem­ ber 19, 1993. Bom in Merritt, N.C., he began sailing with the Seafarers in 1944 in the port of New York. Brother Edwards sailed in the deck department He saved in : ' . •/' • FRANCIS LEBDA Brother Fran­ cis Lebda, 64, died June 13. Bom in New York City, he joined the Seafarers in 1969 in that port Brother Lebda sailed in the deck depart- :^ .v:-' ment. He upgraded frequently at the Lundeberg School. He is re­ membered by his union brothers for his many aictivities in behalf of seamen—^th at sea and ashore. Brother Lebda served in the U.S. Army from 1947 to 1948. GEORGE LINDSAY JR. Brother George Lindsay Jr., 48, passed away May 24. A native of Georgia, he join^ the SIU in 1970 in the port of Jacksonville, Fla. Brother Lindsay recently sailed in the en­ gine department as a QMED. He upgraded frequently at the union's school in Piney Point, Md. GABRIEL LLAMAS Pensioner Gabriel Llamas, 89, died June 27. Bom in Puer­ to Rico, he joined the Seafarers in 1944 in the port of New York. Late in his career. Brother Llamas primarily sailed in the deck department as a bosun. Brother Llamas began receiving his pension in November 1970. AGLIWD. Sister Veard retired in November 1971. ANTHONY SCATURRO Pensioner Anthony Scaturro, 76, died June 10. He signed on with the Seafarers in 1950 in his home state of New York. Brother Scaturro sailed in the steward department. He upgraded at the Lundeberg School in 1979. Brother Scatur­ ro served in the U.S. Navy from 1941 to 1945. He began receiv­ ing his pension in March 1980. JOSEPH SMITH Pensioner Joseph Smi^, 82, passed away May 20. Bom in Peabody, Mass., he joined the union in 1948 in the port of New York. He last sailed in the deck depart­ ment as a bosun. Brother Smith retired in April 1978. ARMONSTOVALL Pensioner Armon Stovall, 74, HORACE P. MAYEUX died May 25. Pensioner Bom in Horace P. Newark, Mayeux, 65, N.J., he passed away joined the June 6. He Marine joined the Cooks and SIU in his na­ Stewards in 1971 in the port of tive city of New Orleans San Francisco, before that union merged with the AGLIWD. He in 1966. began receiving his pension Brother Mayeux sailed in the Febmary 1990. deck department. He served in the U.S. Army from 1945 to ARMANDO VIDAL 1947. Brother Mayeux retired from the SIU in October 1987. Pensioner Ar­ mando DONALD J. MEDER Vidal, 81, Brother died March Donald J. 14. A native Meder,61, of Puerto died May 25. Rico, he Bom in signed on Sacramento, with the SIU Calif., he in 1943 in signed on the port of New York. Brother with the SIU Vidal sailed in the engine depart­ in 1969 in ment. He upgraded frequently at the port of Wilmington, Calif. the Lundeterg School. Brother He sailed in both the deck and Vidal began receiving his pen­ steward departments. Brother sion in September 1975. Meder upgraded at the Lun­ deberg School. He served in the JAMES L.WALDROP U.S. Navy from 1951 to 1955. James L. Waldrop, 63, passed CLARENCE J. NALL away June 3. Bom in Florida, he joined the Seafarers in 1950 in Pensioner the port of New York. Brother Clarence J. Waldrop sailed in both the deck Nail, 82, and steward departments. passed away Febmary 19, 1993.A charter mem­ ber of the SIU, Brother INLAND Nail was bom in Belleville, Ala. He joined BENJAMIN BEACHAM the union in 1938 in the port of Benjamin Mobile, Ala. and sailed in the Beacham, steward department until his 60, died June retirement in September 1972. 20. A native He is survived by his wife, Ber^ of North nice. Carolina, he joined the MARY A. VEARD SIU in 1959 Pensioner Mary A. Veard, 75, in the port of passed away August 5, 1993. Philadelphia. She joined the Marine Cooks and He sailed in the deck department. Stewards in 1955, l^fore that Boatman Beacham served in the union merged with the U.S. Army from 1950 to 1954. - --" i •, . ••• 7 Jj / 7 ' ' jr . (• 23 :lj' 7 CHARLES M. CURTIS Pensioner Charles M. Curtis, 70, passed away May 14. Bom in North Carolina, he began his sailing career in 1973 in the port of Jackson­ ville, Fla. Boatman Curtis at­ tended the SIU Gulf and Inland Waters Education Conference in July 1971 at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. He sailed in the steward department. Boatman Curtis served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1942 to 1945. He retired in Febmary 1986. FRANCIS GALLAGHER Pensioner Francis Gallagher, 84, died June 10. A native of Vir­ ginia, Boatman Gallagher joined the SIU in 1961 in the port of Norfolk, Va. He sailed in the en­ gine department. Boatman Gal­ lagher began receiving his pension in April 1973. DONALD HARBOUR Donald Har­ bour, 53, passed away June 20. Bom in Springfield, 111., he joined the Serfarers in 1991 in the port of Houston. Boatman Harbour sailed aboard G & H Towing ves­ sels in the engine department. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1958 to 1964. . j', JOSEPH HEBERT Pensioner Joseph Hebert, 70, died June 16. A native of Grand Lake, La., he began sailing widi the union in 1964 in the portof New Orleans. Boatman Hebert served in the U. S. Army from 1943 to 1946. He began receiving his pension in April 1982. MELVIN HEBERT Pensioner Melvin Hebert, 73, passed away May 20. Bom in Louisiana, he joined the Seafarers in 1972 in the port of Port Arthur, Texas. Boat­ man Hebert was a licensed cap­ tain. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1944 to 1946 and again ftxjm 1947 to 1949. Boatman Hebert retired in November 1985. : 3 ft 3 ?.'3- Ific :3 . . V.' t ••. -'r ' •A . JOHN Q.JOYNER Pensioner John Q. Joyner, 88, died May 14. Boatman Joyner began sailing with the SIU in 1982 in the portof NorContinued on page 25 V , /• 33: �24 AUGUST 1994 SEAFARERS LOG TwoOffloading for the ITB Jack­ sonville is a two-step process. When the vessel approaches the New York City skyline, it is time to ready the vessel for the first step. "Entering the harbor only means we have to prepare for lightering," Bosun Luke Wells told the Seafarers LOG. "We'll be here offloading, then we can head for the dock." ' The Jacksonville, like the other Sheridan Transportation • 1» tug/barges on the St. Croix to New York run, must unload some of its petroleum cargoonto another barge in the Stapleton Anchorage before it can sai to the Hess Ter­ minal in Port Reading, N.J. Wells noted the procedure is fairly routine with the good crew aboard the vessel. "We are all familiar with what we have to do. Unless the weather acts up, it usually goes without a hitch." The tug/barge makes the roundtrip between the Virgin Is­ lands and New York in just under 13 days. Lightering in Stapleton Anchorage takes about 12 hours, while the offloading operations at the terminal involves another 18 hours. The Jacksonville is able to hold 350,000 barrels of gasoline, jet fuel and other petroleum products. When it is not on the New York run, the 12-year-old vessel often puts in at the ports of — Norfolk, Va., Charleston, S.C. Chief Cook Benigno Santos and Houston. stands ready to take a meal order. /?' v''"{V'. -'; • Waving as the pilotlaunch shoves Lowering the pilot's ladder from the deck are AB Nat Leary (left) and QMED Pumpman David V^dkamp (right) finds out what will be on the off is Bosun Luke Wells. Bosun Luke Wells. The lightering barge can be seen behind Wells, menu from Chief Steward Charles Banky. Pictured from left are GLIDE Gerry Rogers, QMED Tomas Martinez and GUDE Don Ackerman. '"••.." The professionalism of SIU crewmembers aboard the Liberty Sea was evident during the vessel's recent voyage to deliver 60,000 metric tons of grain to Haifa, Israel, reported Bosun Mario Romero. In ship's minutes that were recorded during the trip, the bosun commended the entire crew. "We've had nothing but smooth sailing," noted Romero. Romero said that the deck department spent much of its time chipping and painting. Seafarers in the engineroom kept the vessel running at peak performance, while the steward department provided excellent meals. "I extend a special vote of thanks to the steward department for a job well done," added Romero. The importance and benefits of upgrading at the Paul Hall Center is a common topic among the crew, accord­ ing to the Liberty Sea's chief steward, Neville Johnson Jr. Brother Johnson has taken many courses at the Paul Hall Center's Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. He recently completed the recertified steward program. Operated by Liberty Maritime, the Liberty Sea was scheduled to return to the U.S. late last month. The photos ac­ companying this story were taken during the voyage to Is­ rael. Applying a fresh coat of paint is AB Don Martin, who sails from the port of New Orleans. 'iA\i :. •'•4: Galley gang members (left to right) Chief Cook Leslie Davis, GSU — Gerardo Lopez and Recertified Steward Neville Johnson Jr. prepare ^ li another delicious meal for fellow crewmembers on the Liberty Sea. •' ^>- ^r.'. • • HelDinq keep the Liberty Sea in Piloting the ship are AB Urry Jordan (right) and Third Mate David ABs Arnold Jackson (left) and Romuald "Joe" Los paint railings on the top form is Bosun Mario Romero. Hood, an SIU hawsepiper. deck of the L/berty Sea. W. �•••• V'' f vv ./-Jv'<??.. / < •'•'"'y/y P' •/-' y-yy • Vv^a;:, •-•. • ; y •• • ' •' • ;•, • ;''a« SEAFARBISLOe Seafai^ir Question: What was the best ship or run that you have been on as a Seafarer? (Asked of SIU members in the port of Baltimore.) Eric Mahoney, Ordinary Seaman — Fveonly been on two ships so far because I started sail­ ing last year. I guess I'd have to say the Sealift Mediterranean Sea because it had such a good crew. Walt Schoppe, Cooi^aker — Every ship has been my favorite ship. I have had no problems on any SIU ship and have enjoyed sailing. John McLain, Ordi­ nary Seaman • I'd have to say the Gopher State. The food was good, the crew was good and we had a good trip from Germany to Johnson Island. • % •• .'v • - ;" v"";; • a "i MMHmi994 Bob Anders, Able Seaman — Any Delta Lines and Sea-Land ships. They had good crews, good runs, good food and lots of work. .• •r 2S ''Xv^ The San Juan's Enthusiastic Galley Gang Frank Ridrigs, retired Steward As­ sistant — Delta Lines' Isabelle. It went to South America. I liked the run. We had good weather. We had very good crews and nice passengers. Joseph J. Mamoliti, retired Tug­ boat Cap­ tain — I was inland, but I'd have to say the Kings Point. She was a good han­ dling boat in the Baltimore Har­ bor and Chesapeake Bay. One thing the SlU-crewed Nuevo San Juan is known for is its enthusiastic galley gang. Pictured above (from left), ready for serving the crew at lunchtime are Messman Jose De Los Santos, Chief Cook Jorge Bernardez, Chief Steward Hazel Johnson and Messman Angel O'Neill. Below right, De Los Santos prepares food for the salad bar. Below left (from left), reading a letter from SIU headquarters are Bosun Jerry Boruckl, Johnson and Bernardez. Calvin Singietary, Able Seaman — TheSS Guayama. The crew as a whole was excel­ lent. I en­ joyed the run and commend Captain Egon Stage and Bosun Richard Kidd. If given a choice between a good ship and a good crew, I'll go with the good crew. Keith Barfield, Steward As­ sistant Any Delta Lines' ship. They were the best runs because they had good crews and no troubles, Carl Rus­ sell, Ordinary Seaman ^ I just started sail­ ing. The Global Mariner is the only vessel I've been aboard, so it's my favorite. Not the Usual Cargo Requiring a little more care than the usual cargo of cqntainere, four elephants were pick^ up by the Sea-LandRaleighBayin Charleston, S.C. for transport to a circus in Algeciras, Spain. Watching the loading process are, from left, AS William Carey, AB Timothy G'^ard and &)sun Tony Martinez. The photo was taken by QMED Paul Titus. Final Departures Continued from page 23 folk, Va. He sailed in the deck department. Boatman Joyner began receiving his pension in June 1985. GERALD MANUEL Pensioner Gerald Manuel, 90, passed away May 31. Bom in Louisiana, he joined the union in 1964 in the port of Port Arthur, Texas. Boat­ man Manuel sailed in the engine department. He retired in Oc­ tober 1968. GREAT LAKES ALBERT J. LESSARD Pensioner Al­ bert J. Lessard, 75, died May 31. A native of Duluth, Minn., he began sailing with the SIU in 1968 in the port of Detroit as a member of the deck department. Brother Lessard served in the U. S. Navy from 1941 to 1945. He retired in December 1984. WILLIAM V.NUGENT Pensioner William V. Nugent, 93, passed away April 29. Bom in FLOYD T. ROGERS JR. Michigan, he Floyd T. joined the Rogers Jr., union in 58, died May 1953 in the 26. A native port of Frankfort, Ky. He sailed of Delaware, in the engine department. he began sail­ Brother Nugent began receiving ing with the his pension in July 1966. SIU in 1959 in the port of Philadelphia. DANIEL PELKY Daniel He sailed in the deck department. Pelky,51, Boatman Rogers served in the died May 5. U.S. Navy from 1953 to 1954. A native of Michigan, he MERLE E. WITTER JR. began sailing Merle E. Witter Jr., 41, passed with the SIU away June 23. Boatman Witter in 1989 in joined the Seafarers in 1977 in the port of his native city of Port Arthur, Algonac, Texas. He sailed in the deck Mich. Brother Pelky sailed in the department. engine department JOHN J. STARR John J. Starr, passed away June 20. Bom in Baltimore, Md., he joined the luiionin 1971 in the port of Duluth, Minn. Brother Starr sailed in the engine department as an FOWT and upgraded to QMED at the Lundeberg School. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1949 to 1952. ATLANTIC FISHERMEN SAMUEL PALLAZOLA Pensioner Samuel Pallazola, 76, died June 3. Bom in Gloucester, Mass., he started fishing commer-. cially at the age of 14. Brother Pal­ lazola served in the U.S. Army during World War U, fiom 1942 to 1946. He joined the Atlantic Rshermen's Union in 1946, an af­ filiate of the SIU, before it merged with the AGLIWD in 1981. He sailed in the deck department Brother Pallazola retired in Febraary 1983. RAILROAD MARINE FRANK C. TIEDEMAN Pensioner Frank C. Tiedeman, 75, passed away June 28. A na­ tive of Patterson, N.J., he joined the Seafarers in 1963 in the port. of New York. He sailed in the deck depaitinent. Brother Tiedeman served in the U.S. Army during World War 11, from 1941 to 1945. He began receiv­ ing his pension June 1979. : 7^:; i • * : IV '• J t- • ;7':: �.•; ,•- -igbeSSfW 26 f-: AUGUST 1994 SEAFARERS LOG Liindeberg School Graduating Classes •/, 'r C€-• !i ;fe M#t-¥ "'--fi .'• nwdsrrtSf 1 -v;--' :|X- '^-V ••, f. Trainee Lifeboat Class 526—Graduating from trainee lifeboat class 526 are (from left, kneeling) Christopfier Hanshe, James Alsobrooks, Gregory Reynolds, George Auger, (second row) Carlos Sanchez, Mark Hughey, Denise Akenson, Christopher Mattair, John Scott McMillian, Roland Moolenaar Jr., Jim Brown (instructor) and Melvin Rivera. Upgraders Lifeboat—Upgrading graduates of ttie July 12 lifeboat class are (from left, kneeling) Ben Cusic (instructor) Terry Johnson, Clifford Blackmon, Joseph Carmine, (second row) Jesse Lee James, Cecilio Suarez, Steven Murray, Dennis Fillingim, (third row) Matthew Sandy, Santiago Martinez, Nathaniel Jennings and Roger Jackson. Third Mate - Radar—Graduating from the deck department upgrading course on July 12 are (from left), Vince Ippolito Jr., Michael McCardie, Carl Ricker Jr., Don Bridenstine Jr., Gregg Carlson, Emanuel Gazzier Jr., Jake Karaczynski (instructor) and Robert LaPointe. Oil Spill Containment—Certificates of completion were received by the June 22 class of upgraders. They are (from left, seated) Joseph Williams, Delson Richardson, Scotty Greenlee, James Cedeno, Alfredo ^ Arana, Allen Newgen, (second row) Thomas Stead, Tom Wulforst, David Wogan, Marshall Sanford, Michael Natoli, Manfred Wedell, (third row) Brett Sollee, Robert Rogers, Antoinette Strauch, Scott VanSlambrouck, Dennis Bennett and John Schmidt. 8'- V^; V " Hydraulics—The July 14 graduates of the hydraulics class are (from left) Gary Frazier, Michael Brown, Marcos Hill, Mark Dumas and Dan Holden (instructor). Able Bodied Seaman—Certificates of completion were received by the June 27 class of upgraders. They are (from left, kneeling) George Galanis, Thomas Pappas, Kimberly Clark, Lloyd Bates, Roger White, Michael Jackson, (second row) Darrel Koonce, John Parker, Jeremie Riehm, Terry Vicknair, Joseph Moceri, Christopher Kalinowski, Donald MacDonald, Jake Karaczynski (instructor), (third row) Eric Lund, Jacob Mayo, Ronald Brown, Rodney Aucoin, Francisco Harry, Patrick Vandegrift and John McClinton. f MUST BE RENEWED BY Z-CARDS issued in: M: SV:tt' If.- .• I• 1939 1940 1941 1937 1942 1938 1943 1944 1945 1946 1947 1948 1949 1950 1951 1952 1953 1954 1955 1956 1957 1958 1959 1960 1961 1962 1963 1964 1965 1966 1967 1968 1969 1970 1971 1972 1973 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 Introduction to Engine—Completing the course on June 22 are (from left) Eric Matzkuhn (instructor), Michael Morrissey, Chad Vickers, Charlie Bradshaw, Daniel Lewis, Ralph Ramsey and Phillip Yeomans. Missing from the photo is John Coover. �r,<fi^-u:/.-.-';. ._• _. •• v'l ••'-• • '"t-; • • ^: AUGUST 1994 SEAFARERSLOG LUHDEBERG ^HmiL 1994 UPGRADIHG COURSE SCHEDULE The following is the course schedule for classes beginning between late August and December 1994 at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship located at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. All programs are geared to improve job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. The course schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritiine industry and—in times of conflict—the nation's security. Course Check-In Date Completion Date Able Seaman September 9 October 21 All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. Bridge Management (Shiphandiing) October 21 November 4 Radar CertiBcation September 16 October 14 September 23 October 21 Celestial Navigation September 9 October 21 Limited License, Part 1 September 26 October? Umited License, Part 2 October 10 October 21 October 24 November 4 Safety Specialty Courses Course Oil Spill Prevention an^ Containment Check-In Date Completion Date October 21 October 28 Basic/Advanced Fire Fighting September 16 Novemiber 25 September 30 December 9 S^lift Operations & Maintenance September 5 September 30 RecertittcaUon Programs Course Check-In Date Completion Date Bosun Recertiflcation October 3 November 7 (Middle) (Risl) (Street) (Zip Code) (State) ) Date of Birth. (Area Code) Deep Sea Member• Contact admissions office for starting dates Contact admissions ofBce for starting dates Chief Cook, Chief Steward Engine Upgrading Courses Completion Course Date All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. Refrigerant Handling - EPA (Refrigeration Tech. Certification) Fireman/Watertender and Oiler Pumproom Maint & Operations Hydraulics Marine Electrical Maintenance Welding September 6 Septembers September 12 September 5 October 3 September 12 October 24 October 21 October 14 November 28 November 4 November 18 .<wr.x\. /-'-f 1994Aduit OiucaUon Schedule The following courses are available through the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School. Please contact the admissions office for enrollment information. Course Check-In Date Completion Date GED Preparation 12 weeks - open-ended admission Adult Basic Education (ABE) 6 weeks - open-ended admission Developmental Studies September 5 (Month/Day/Year) Lakes Member• Session lU September 9 September 12 November 4 NOTICE TO SEAFARERS In order to better meet the future needs of SIU members, the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship located at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education will be running a decreased class schedule during the months of November and December. During this time period, the school will be preparing additional classes based on new governmental regulations, upgrading present course materials and repairing and maintain­ ing classroom equipment. Instructors also will be attending advanced courses to enhance their knowledge and skills. The fiill 1995 class schedule, which will be ready in late fall, will be published in the Seafarers LOG as soon as it is release(l. Members with any questions may contact the school's admis­ sion office at (301) 994-0010. CPRrDYes • Yes • No Firefighting:•Yes •No Primary language spoken UPGRADING APPLRMTIOH (City) Completion Date General EducaUon Coiiege Courses Lifeboatman Telephone ( Assistant Cook, Cook and Baker "It September 9 September 23 October 21 (Last)- Check-In Date Course English as a Second Language (ESL) 6 weeks - open-ended admission August 26 ^September 9 October 7 Name Address Steward Upgrading Courses Check-In Date Deck Upgrading Courses Limited License, Part 3 27 Inland Waters Member• •NO With this application, COPIES of your discharges must be submitted showing suffi­ cient time to qualify yourself for the course(s) requested. You also must submit a COPY of each of the following: the first page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, your clinic card and the front and back of your z-card as well as your Lundeberg School identification card listing the course(s) you have taken and com­ pleted. The Admissions Office WILL NOT schedule you until all of the above are received. BEGIN END COURSE DATE DATE If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Book# Social Security #. . Department Seniority U.S. Citizen: CHYes CH No Home Port. Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held Rating:. LAST VESSEL: Date On:. Are you a graduate of the SHLSS trainee program? •Yes If yes, class # ' •Yes Have you attended any SHLSS upgrading courses? If yes, course(s) taken Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? Date Off:. PNO PNO Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. RETURN COMPLETED APPLICATION TO: Lundeberg Upgrading Center, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674. WA 1 / ' JI • • • .r • �•- •;>!• -.•>^-v- SEAEtMSEMBS 1995 Scholarships Announced Seven scholarships will be awarded in 1995 to help members and their dependents further their college or university studies. See page 11 for additional Information. V-' • V. •" Volume 56, Number 8 August 1994 Seafarer Fulfills Lifelong Racing Goal For Dennis Fillingim, Ranger. "This is strictly for son is the driver. When Fillin­ owning a race car is the fulfill­ love. In fact, there's a lot of gim is at sea for long periods, [financial] risk involved. I've they handle the day-to-day tasks ment of a lifelong dream. Because he had help in seen people sink everything associated with maintaining a achieving that goal, when the they own into a race car and then race car. Of course, driver safety is a longtime SIU member recently lose it all." finished preparing his new Operating a race car on any major consideration. It is ad­ vehicle for its first race, he made level is not cheap. Fuel (a mix­ dressed to such an extent that an obvious gesture of thanks. ture of nitromethane, methane Fillingim believes most race car "I checked With the union to and alcohol) can cost as much as drivers "are safer in those cars make sure no one minded, then $30 per gallon, and Fillingim's than in street cars. The race cars I put an SIU logo on the car," vehicle only gets about three have a full roll-cage (consisting said the 40-year-old chief cook. miles to the gallon. There are of protective bars outside the "I love the union, and without entry fees for each race, and vehicle) and halon fire extin­ the SIU, there's no way I could there's no such thing as in­ guishers that fog the whole car, have earned the money to buy a surance for these vehicles, Fil­ and the drivers wear fire suits that fully protect them for iip to car like this one." lingim pointed out. Fillingim recently purchased Sponsorship and winnings two minutes in a blazing fire. a 1993 Chevrolet Berretta, are the most common methods Labors of Love manufactured in Michigan by of offsetting the costs. Fillingim With a friendly demeanor Howe Racing. Relying on a has secured sponsorship from and in an unmistakably southern lifetime of experience, he spent local businesses in Mobile—in­ accent, Fillingim explained that an estimated 500 hours building cluding a small restaurant that racing, cooking and sailing all the engine (a 391 cubic inch V-8 he has owned for the past five have been lifelong labors of that has been modified from a years. love. Seafarer Dennis Fillingim proudly displays the SIU logo (near his right 350) for the car—a crucial step, Intricate Operation 'Growing up, racing for me hand) on his newly acquired race car. "Anywhere 1 go in racing, the from a financial aspect. "Here Additionally, race car opera­ was like football or baseball was SIU emblem will be on my car," he states. again, without building the en­ tions are quite complex. There to other kids. I've been around gine myself, there's no Way I are many technical points that it my whole life." men whose boat was about to way, even if they're cooking could have afforded it." straight from a book, and no two must be strictly monitored and His interest in galley work sink. He runs the vehicle in the adjusted when necessary. The and in the merchant marine "That fishing boat was a people drive a car the exact "open-modified" division, slightest deviation can have a stems from the fact that "I've death trap. They never should same way." which, as the name suggests, major impact on performance. been around cooking and sailors have sailed," Fillingim recalled. With a little luck, the differs from stock-car racing be­ For example, Fillingim's car my whole life, too," Fillingim But the rescue went smoothly. Seafarer hopes to expand his cause the automobiles are en­ is "56 percent left-side weight," added with a laugh. "My father Everybody worked together and racetrack exploits to the nation­ hanced by mechanics. Most of he said, meaning that the car is was a merchant mariner, and I did their part." al level. But he said that, regard­ the tracks are a half-mile long, heavier on one side. "Every­ always intended to go to sea." He also likes the fact that, less of whether or not his car with asphalt or dirt surfaces. thing is built to the left sid^ of He is more than satisfied with while on the beach, he can stays local or hits the big time, Racing in Fla. the car. Even the wheels are dif­ his sailing career, which in­ devote most of his attention to he will remain proud of the SIU and thankful for the chance to "Right now I'm running the ferent sizes" because, other than cluded service in the Persian racing. work hard and earn a good car once a week in Pensacola, when it is on a short Gulf War. "I love the travel, Rarely Drives living. Florida, and I'm getting ready to straightaway, the vehicle is al­ meeting people and making a Interestingly, very little of "It's so important to know go national," said Fillingim, ways turning to the left on the good living. I appreciate the fact his involvement with the sport that if you're dedicated to your who joined the Seafarers in track. that we have the Paul Hall Cen­ 1969 in his native Mobile, Ala. Moreover, the car's weight ter, which is an excellent school includes time behind the wheel. sailing career and you're sen­ and who still sails from that has a lot to do with its clas­ that gives SIU members a I've driven in some sible with your earnings, you mechanics' races, that's all. But can reach your goals. I'm thank­ port. sification," Fillingim noted. chance to have great careers. I He added that competing in Mine must weigh a minimum "I don't know anything else will say that driving is a lot like ful to the SIU, and anywhere I bigger races throughout the U.S. of 2,500 pounds. Right now, I'd rather do, and I've had many cooking, in the sense that no one go in racing, the SIU emblem is not a goal that is based on with a driver and a full tank of shoreside jobs to compare it cooks die same dish the same will be on my car." potential monetary winnings. fuel (22 gallons), it weighs with." "You can race your whole life 2,512 pounds." Sailing also provides some and never make big money," Although he is the sole owner excitement, such as the time two said Fillingim, who has of the car, which can reach years ago when Fillingim—then The National Center for 16 years old, she has not been upgraded several times at the racing speeds in excess of 100 sailing aboard theSealift Carib­ Missing and Exploited seen or heard from since and Paul Hall Center and who most mph, Fillingim is assisted with bean south of Florida—helped Children has asked the has been considered an en­ recently sailed aboard the MV the operations by a friend whose rescue three American fisherSeafarers International dangered missing person. Union to assist them in locat­ The photo at left has been ing Angela Sigrid Ramsey. age-enhanced to show how Last known to be at a the 32-year-old woman motel in DeLand, Fla. on might appear today. June 21, 1977 when she was At the time of her disap­ pearance, the blonde-haired, brown-eyed girl was 5'3" tall Help Locate This Missing Person »^W%r and weired 115 pounds. She r/ '• :» The vehicle, a '93 Chevy Beretta, can reach racing speeds greater than 100 mph. SIU member Fillingim spent hundreds of hours modifying the engine. Angela Sigrid Ramsey as she is believed to look at age 32. has a small scar on the left side of her face. Anyone having informa­ tion on the whereabouts of Angela Sigrid Ramsey should contact the National Center for Missing and Ex­ ploited Children at (800) 843-5678 or the Missing Persons Unit of the Volusia County (Fla.) Sheriffs Of­ fice at (904) 254-1535. sWwix � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 1990-1999 Description An account of the resource Volumes LII-LXI Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993; Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource August 1994 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES SEAFARERS RECALL HALL LEGACY SHIPPING VISIONARY, CROWLEY DIES AT 79 BY 294-122, HOUSE BACKS U.S. SHIP PLAN INGRAO DIES; SERVED MTD FOR 30 YEARS SENATE PANEL EXPECTED TO MARK UP MARITIME PROGRAM BILL IN AUGUST CG ISSUES RULE ON PROOF OF ABILITY TO PAY FOR SPILLS HEALTH CARE DEBATE HITS CONGRESSIONAL FLOORS THIS MONTH ALL SIU-CONTRACTED LAKERS ARE AT WORK 26 COURSES OPEN TO SEAFARERS SAB: REFRIGERATION TECHS TO BE GIVEN PRIORITY FOR CERTAIN ENGINE POSITIONS Q&A: HOW THE NEW EPA RULE AFFECTS SEAMEN SEAFARERS’ TIMELY RESPONSE SAVES LIFE OF ALTON MAN H. CREEL AND D. WON TO JOIN FMC SOURCE OF DEADLY LEGIONAIRES’ DISEASE TRACED TO RUNAWAY-FLAG CRUISE SHIP SEAFARERS HELP PULL RUNAWAY-FLAG TANKER TO SAFETY WITHOUT SPILLAGE OECD PACT WOULD END SHIPBUILDING SUBSIDIES O’BRIEN TO CALL ON EASTERN PORTS BEFORE HEADING HOME TO SAN FRAN NY FERRY SERVICE ADDS ROUTE, MORE TO COME 13 SEAFARER-CREWED BOATS OFFER A POPULAR COMMUTING ALTERNATIVE SEAFARERS FIND REFRIGERATIONS CLASSES ‘EXTENSIVE,’ ‘FAST-PACED’ AND HELPFUL HIGHER EDUCATION DOESN’T HAVE TO COST A FORTUNE VOYAGE TO GDYNIA: MEMORIES OF RALPH J. LUNDGREN ITF ASSISTS RUSSIAN MARINERS SAILING UNDER UNSAFE CONDITIONS THOMAS CROWLEY DIES OF CANCER A $28 MILLION FACELIFT INDEPENDENCE UNDERGOES MAJOR RENOVATIONS AFTER SOMALI RELIEF EFFORT PREPOSITIONING SHIP HAUGE IS BACK IN DIEGO GARCIA RECALLING LAST YEARS FLOODING, ORGULF CREWS THANKFUL FOR GOOD WEATHER UPGRADER KOONCE STAYS TRUE TO WORD TWO-STEP UNLOADING IS ROUTINE FOR JACKSONVILLE BOSUN ROMERO PRAISES LIBERTY SEA CREW SEAFARER FULFILLS LIFELONG RACING GOAL Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 08/01/1994 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 56, No. 8 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log 1994 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/2644ab8caeb2a9d74cf7d14eb0204b5f.PDF be07911db1330b2e9024e75de50cd09f PDF Text Text ' "'W OFFICIAL ORGAN OF THE StAFARtRS INTERNATIONAL UNION • ATIANTIC GUIF, UKES AND INIANP WATERS MSTRIG • AH-CIO SXAEiKEMtS In Amtrak/Barge Accident Safety Board Pins Blame on Lack of Training by Tug Crew -:-A.. •' 690 CAROL ORGSSAN ACQUISITION SECT/NEWSPAPE STATE HISTORICAL SOC OF N 816 STATE STREET MADISON HI 53706-1482 ... Secy. Pena Unveils Shipbuilding Plan To Aid U.S. Yards Page 4 Page 3 Pages •' "< lisa.-..; ''i •••• ' '' .•• >•' '• - • •• • '' • - ' T J-' - r. \ '^ ./• .•- •/ i \. y. Vi'-'i'- rirf^-i>ff^iiiriiiyii.iirrtlOT l 'k'" t N'.' iV . ' (•• i' �2 SEAFARERS LOG JULY 1994 .u h' 1^' , -* • President's Report Training — Everybody's a Winner • •,_{ •; ^ V • • - •, • Seafarers have long known the value of training. It was back in 1952 that the head of the SIU, Paul Hall, instituted the union's train­ ing program as a means by which Seafarers could promote their job security and improve their earning power. Not only does this pro­ gram, now established at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, provide young people entering the industry with the fun­ damentals of seamanship, but it also gives skilled Seafarers opportunities to advance their knowledge and expand their areas of expertise. Through this ongoing training program at the Paul Hall Center and its Lundeberg School Michael Sacco Seamanship, the SIU is able to provide the U.S. shipping industry a continuous flow of qualified and productive manpower. With access to such training. Seafarers stay expert and adept in all aspects of shipboard technol­ ogy changes. The result is U.S. shipping has readily available skilled crews, and the safety and job security of Seafarers is enhanced. Like the SIU, the other unions representing shipboard labor working aboard deep sea and Great Lakes ships also have training schools or programs. But mariners in one segment of U.S. shipping do not have as many opportunities to participate in entry level cour­ ses or upgrading curricula. And that group of crewmembers is made up of boatmen serving on the nation's tugs and tows plying America's coastal and inland waters. That is why it was no surprise that the National Transportation Safety Board, an independent government agency, in its recommen­ dations stemming from a train accident brought about by a track knocked out of kilter by a barge striking a railroad bridge, called for more training of the boatmen who navigate tugs and tows. In that September 22, 1993 accident, a towboat crashed into a railroad bridge not far from Mobile, Alabama. In the dead of night and with poor visibility, the towboat's pilot did not use his radar. Eight minutes after the towboat displaced the bridge, an Amtrak train carrying 220 people slammed into the structure and derailed. Three locomotives and four cars plummeted into the water. Fortyseven people died. The National Transportation Safety Board found that if the pilot had used his radar, he could have determined that he should not turn toward the bridge. The Board found that the towboat's company had not given the pilot proper radar navigation training, nor was a compass supplied to the vessel operator. These findings led the agency to urge the U.S. Coast Guard to develop a radar training course and to require that operators of towing vessels be certified as radar observers. There is an effort on the part of the Department of Transporta­ tion and certain members of Congress to put into practice the Board's recommendations. Unfortunately, there will be those who decry the push for increased safety as just more government regula­ tion or just more operating expenses. As this debate moves forward, it would be well to keep in mind some facts about training. Training is not a cross that employers must bear. Several prestigious think-tanks have studied the results of training in the workplace. A report issued in 1990 by the Brook­ ings Institution found that in the years 1929 to 1989, job-related learning increased productivity twice as i^uch as technology. Another academic group found that individuals who receive formal training one year later are 30 percent more productive than their counterparts who did not participate in the learning program. More and more companies and organizations are investing in training their employees. In 1993, according to the American Society for Training and Development, 48 billion private dollars were spent on job training—up 7 percent from the year before. Two training experts found through their research that from 1983 to 1991, work-based formal learning programs increased 45 percent. Later this summer. Congress will deliberate the House towing safety bill that includes mechanisms to determine the proficiency of crewmembers in work-related skills—mechanisms which will lead to more extensive training for the men and women who work on the nation's tugs and tows. A bill that results in more job training and work skill-oriented courses for the individuals who crisscross the nation's 25,777 miles of navigable waterways will bring with it posi­ tive effects for the industry, its workers and the nation. The industry will benefit from increased productivity. Tug and towboat crew­ members will benefit from enhanced job security and earning power. The nation will benefit from having the marine equipment operating close to populous centers and environmentally-sensitive areas in the hands of people who have augmented their first-hand work experience with ongoing training. And everyone—the tug and tow industry, crewmembers and the country—will gain from a heightened awareness of safety. Volume 56. Number 7 July 1994 The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 0160-2047) is published monthly by the Seafarers Intemational Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District; AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, Md. 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Second-class postage paid at MSC Prince Georges, Md. 20790-9998 and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER; Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, Md. 20746. Managing Editor, Daniel Duncan; Associate Editors, Jor­ dan Biscardo and Corrina Christensen; Associate Editor/Production, Deborah A. Hirtes; Art, Bill Brower. Hoi^, Senate to TatMe U.S. Shto BUI This Htonlh As written., the House bil the funding procedure originally Commrttees in both the House and Senate are expected to work would raise approximately $I7( proposed by Pena that woulc on bills dealing with maritime million a year beginning in Fisca raise approximately $100 million revitalization when Congress Year 1995 by requiring all vessels annually. The duties collected on vessels entering a U.S. port from returns from its Independence sailing into U.S. ports from foreign location to pay a flat 5; a nearby Western Hemisphere Day recess on July 11. The House Ways and Means cents per registered tonnage. The foreign port would go from nine Committee is reviewing legisla­ fee would becharged on the first 12 to 24 cents per registered tonnage. tion approved by the House Mer­ voyages each year into U.S. ports. On ships entering a U.S. port from all other foreign destinations, the chant Marine and Fisheries . Senate To Begin Work fee would increase from 27 to 71 Committee in May that calls for a Meanwhile, published reports cents. The duty would be col­ 10-year, $1.7 billion program that would not only fiind a 52-ship note the Senate Merchant Marine lected only on the first five annual program but also a domestic ship­ Subcommittee is expected begin voyages to a U.S. port, as is work on its version of maritime presently enforced. building effort. The Promotional Reform Act revitalization known as the Under both the House and of 1994 (H.R. 4003) includes an Maritime Security and Trade Act Senate versions of thelegislation, increase in tonnage fees paid by of 1994 (S. 1945) following the U.S.-flag liner companies would vessels entering U.S. ports from recess. agree to make their ships avail­ So far, the subconunittee has able to the Department of foreign harbors. Because the bill includes a revenue-raising aspect, held several hearings on the bill. Defense (DOD) or allow for the Ways and Means Committee Witnesses have included space onboard these vessels for must review the legislation before Transportation Secretary DOD cargo during a national it goes to the full House for debate Federico Pena, representatives of emergency in order to be eligible and a vote. That review is ex­ maritime labor and officials from for the funds. The vessels covered pected to be finished by the mid­ U.S.-flag shipping companies. by the program must be no more The Senate version more than 15 years old and remain ac­ dle of this month. H.R. 4003 serves as the fund- closely follows the proposal laid tive in foreign conunerce. i ng mechanism for the Maritime out by Pena. While S. 1945 also During the hearings. Senator Security and Competitiveness calls for a 10-year program start­ John Breaux (D-La.), chairman of Act, known as H.R. 2I5I. That ing in FY 1995 that will fund 52 the subconunittee, had stated he )ill, which passed the House last vessels through an increase in the was interested in finding ways to November by a 347 to 65 vote, tonnage tax, it does not include increase the number of ships outlined a support program for provisions for shipbuilding. covered by a maritime revitaliza­ the U.S.-flag merchant fl^eet. The Senate bill would include tion program. Among the proposals he suggested was one to reduce the number of bulkers in the Ready Reserve Force to provide more funds for an additional 20 to 25 working vessels. The Senate had been delaying work on its version of the legisla­ tion to allow the House to com­ pete its efforts. Published reports lave noted the Senate would like to finish its work by the August recess in order that a conference committee made up of House and Senators Trent Lott (R-Miss.), left, and John Breaux (D-La.) consider Senate members can craft com­ estlmony being given on the Maritime Security and Trade Act of 1994 promise legislation before ConS. 1945) before the Senate Merchant Marine Subcommittee. Senate p*ess adjourns for the November action on the legislation is expected to begin this month. elections. 3,000 Times Over, Pensioner Urges Congress to Back U.S. Maritime Ike Givens retired from the Marine Cooks and Stewards (MCS) in 1976, but he has not stopp^ contributing to the U.S.flag merchant marine. Within the last few months, '9-year-old Givens has collected more than 3,000 signatures on a petition by the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department (MTD) that calls on Congress and he administration to take "imme­ diate action to develop programs hat will maintain a healthy, vi­ able U.S.-flag fleet and a broad domestic shipyard and marine in­ dustrial base." He garnered support from fel­ low trade unionists, veterans and other citizens in southern Califor­ nia. A Mississippi native who primarily sailed as chief cook, Givens says he got the signatures for two reasons. First, he believes in the cause. Second, "I wanted to set a good example for the younger members, show them that being in the union means giving something back," Givens explains. "You Imow, I sailed for 11 years without a union (prior to joining in 1942 the MCS, which was an affiliate of the SIUNA before its 1978 merger with the Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District), so I appreciate having one. "I just think you should go that extra mile. In the long run, everyone benefits." Givens, who still is gathering signatures, recently received a commemorative ship's wheel in recognition of his efforts. The presentation took place at the March membership meeting in Wilmington, Calif. One of 10 children, Givens says his most memorable days at sea were spent during World War n. He cites taking part in the in­ vasion of Okinawa as the high­ light. Around that same time, he sur­ vived a severe storm which ini­ tially had him pondering another line of work. "I remember saying, 'Please, just get me out of this storm and I'll never go back (to sea).' But of course, I went right back out. "There's just something'about the sea that keeps you young." • Retired Seafarer Ike Givens (center) is congratulated by SIU Port Agent George Tricker (left) and SIU VP George McCartney for col­ lecting signatures on MTD petition. �i: JULY 1994 SEAFARERS LOG 3 SlU School to Train Seafarers in EPA Refrigerant Handiing •1: 7^' In order to aid Seafarers in ob­ shipping after November 14. low-pressure refrigerants. Pass­ taining government-mandated However, any Seafarer in such a ing this section and the core quescertification , for handling position who is on a ship at that tions leads to a type 111 refrigerants, the Paul Hall Center time can obtain his or her cer­ certification. Any individual who and its Lundeberg School this tification once off the vessel. passes all the sections^—the core month will kick off a series of The Refrigeration Technician part. Type 1, Type 11 and Type on-site, two-day courses to be course already is a mandatory 111—has earned a Universal cer­ Attaching a manifold gauge set and preparing to recover refrigerant taught at SIU halls throughout the part of engine department tification. from a ships' stores portable refrigerated box is QMED Mike Brown. U.S. (For a schedule, registration upgrading courses at the Lun­ The SIU is encouraging all information and more, see pages deberg School. Therefore, any QMEDs to seek a Universal cer­ 11-14.) Seafarers who plan to take an en­ tification. The minimum most The certification which gine department upgrading class Seafarers who handle refrigerants Seafarers will earn by passing the between now and the November will need is a Type 1, Type 11 Lundeberg School's Environ­ 14 deadline do not need to take certification, as galley equipment mental Protection Agency the Refrigeration Technician is covered underType 1and ships' (EPA)-approved Refrigeration course at one of the SIU halls. stores systems under Type 11. Pas­ Technician course is required for However, SIU members who senger ships are likely to use lowall QMEDs, electricians, handle refrigerants and who are pressure refrigerants, so refrigeration engineers, junior en­ not planning to upgrade at Piney Seafarers working aboard cruise gineers and anyone else involved Point between now and Novem­ ships will need Universal cer­ in the repair and servicing of ship­ ber should take the class and test, tification. board refrigeration equipment which is considered to be quite A person may take the test as and air conditioning systems, ac­ difficult, at an SIU hall. many times as he chooses. For cording to regulations stemming instance, if in the first go at taking School Moves Quickly from the 1990 amendments to the the test, a Seafarer passes Type 1 Clean Air Act. When the federal regulations and Type 11, he can take the test Those amendments developed calling for EPA-certification of the following month for Type 111. As part of the EPA Refrigeration Technician course, QMED Gary ways in which the United States refrigeration technicians wdre is­ If he passes that, he has obtained Frazier monitors the process of liquid refrigerant recovery using a would reduce and then phase out sued in May 1993, the Lundeberg Universal certification. site-flow indicator. the use of chloroflourocarbons School immediately added the Upon certification. Seafarers (CFCs) because of their link to EPA outline to its curriculum and will receive an EPA card (includ­ depleting the atmosphere's ozone applied for approval as a certified ing an ID number) that will be layer. Because CFCs are com­ refrigerant technician testing issued through the Lundeberg monly found in stationary facility. (The approval was School. The certification has no refrigeration and air conditioning granted on April 29.) expiration. systems, the EPA on May 14, The two-day course offered by 1993 announced in the Federal the Lundeberg School prepares Index to LOG'S Section Register a number of actions the Seafarer to take the EPA On the Lundeberg School's designed to decrease the release exam. The test is divided into four Refrigeration Tech. Course of CFCs into the atmosphere. One parts. The first 25 questions are of these actions was mandating basic and general. The next 25 are Page that all individuals who handle directed toward small appliances. Topic Overview . .11 refrigerants be tested and cer­ Passing the core part of the test tified to do so. and the small appliance section Study Aids ... . . 12 The EPA's deadline for ob­ leads to a Type 1 certification. Why Go After CFCs? . . 12 The next 25 questions cover Sample Test Questions . 13 taining certification is November 14 of this year. The SIU is requir­ high-pressure refrigerants. If an ing that Seafarers who sail in individual passes the core part of Schedule of Courses . . 14 shipboard ratings that handle the test and this section, he has Course Outline . . . . . 14 Lundeberg School Instructor Eric Malzkuhn (left) makes a point to refrigerants must have an EPA achieved a Type 11 certification. Procedure for Applying . 14 QMED Gary Frazier during a practical exercise at the Paul Hall certification card at the time of The last 25 questions concern Center. I# Inland River Safety Dangers Agency's Recommendations SpoUlghted by NTSB Repert Included In Waterway Bill Barge's Actions Blamed in Sept Train Derailment Studds Calls for Trained Crews, Navigation Gear The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) called for more navigation^ equipment aboard tugs and towboats as well as extensive training of the crews aboard them in a summary of its final report regarding a fatal September 1993 passenger train derailment ffpm a bridge that had been struck by a tug/barge. The report went on to cite a lack of proper training for the crew as well as a lack of navigational equipment aboard the tugboat Mauvilla as primary reasons for the derail­ ment in which 47 people were killed. In releasing on June 21 the details of its nine-month study of the accident, the NTSB issued a 21-point set of recommen­ dations to federal agencies and the inland waterways industry to help prevent such an accident from happening again. Recommendations Made The report's recommendations were aimed at such agencies as the U.S. Depart­ ment of Transportation (DOT), Coast Guard, Amtrak, Army Corps of Engineers and the Federal Emergency Management Agency as well as the American Water- •:- ways Operators, which represents inland shipping companies, and Warrior & Gulf Navigation, owners of the Mauvilla. Among the recommendations issued by the NTSB—an independent federal agen­ cy charged with investigating accidents on America's waterways, pipelines, high­ ways, railroads and airlines—were several calling on the Coast Guard and inland waterways industry to develop radar train­ ing courses for towboat operators and to require those operators to hold valid cer­ tification when they stand watch on radarequipped vessels. TTie report also stated all uninspected towing vessels should carry the proper navigational equipment in the wheelhouse and that the companies should verify that tow and tugboat operators are proficient in the use of such gear and charts. In addressing the DOT, the board urged the department to form a task force that includes the U.S. Coast Guard, Army Corps of Engineers, Federal Railroad Ad­ ministration and Federal Highway AdContinued on page 6 The chairman of the House Merchant Marine and Fisheries Subcommittee renewed his call for navigational equip­ ment aboard inland tug and towboats, licensing and training of the masters and mates who operate such vessels, U.S. Coast Guard inspections of the boats and documentation of the boatmen working on them after the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) released its final report summary on the cause of a fatal train derailment near Mobile, Ala. in September 1993 when a tug/barge knocked a bridge out of alignment. Representative Gerry Studds (DMass.) issued his challenge hours after the NTSB report blamed a lack of crew train­ ing and navigational competency for the accident that killed 47 people. The congressman noted that .as America's inland waterways become more congested with gambling and cruise ships, recreational vessels as well as tankers, freighters and containerships. Navigating this maze of traffic in often severely constricted channels is a job for licensed professionals operating vessels inspected to ensure not only their own safety, but that of every other waterway user. In March, Studds introduced the Towing Vessel Safety Act (H.R. 4058) which addresses many of the findings con­ cerning inland waterway operations released last month by the OTSB. Requires Navigational Gear Among the issues addressed by the bill is the requirement that tugs and towboats carry radar, an electronic position-fixing device, sufficient communications gear, sonic depth finder, compass, adequate towing equipment and up-to-date naviga­ tional charts. The bill would mandate that all towing vessels be operated by licensed masters and mates, whose licenses would cany a limitation on the number of barges an operator could tow. Tug and tow officers would have to show their proficiency in operating the newly required equipment through the of simulator and written Continued on page 6 ^.: • 77 ;^7-57^7.7 -91': •" . .. . , ''If ' "-V- �'S ''' • 4 •-"< .•; JULY 1994 SEAFARERS LOG House Panel Clears Cruise Ship Act fer Action 7-'"' ' V The legislation, which was in­ Legislation designed to create approved several amendments to all repairs on interim U.S.-flag the act could create more than troduced by Representative 30,000 seafaring jobs in addition a U.S.-flag coastwise cruise in­ the part of the act pertaining to the vessels to be made in U.S. Jolene Unsoeld (D-Wash.), has to those that would be produced dustry which, in turn, would terms and conditions for re-flag shipyards. A final amendment to been scheduled for a hearing by in U.S. shipyards, port facilities produce more jobs for American ging. H.R. 3821 provided that 10 per­ the Merchant mariners cleared its first hurdle in H.R. 3821 deals with how cent of the monthly gross receipts and other related fields. Marine and The SIU pointed put that U.S.Congress last month. foreign-flag cruise ships alread from interim U.S.-flag vessels be Fisheries The House Merchant Marine operating from U.S. ports can sai placed in an escrow account flag vessels crewed with Committee in Subcommittee approved the U.S. as interim U.S.-flag vessels with which would be returned to the American mariners would im­ late July. Passenger Vessel Development American crews while a new ves company to help pay for the con­ prove marine safety because of Only two Act (H.R. 3821 and H.R. 3822) sel is built in a U.S. shipyard. To struction of a new replacement the strict regulations and stand­ of the 129 on June 23. The act, which has the be considered under this bill, ves passenger ship in a U.S. shipyard. ards the ships must meet as well cruise vessels support of the SIU, would en­ sels must weigh at least 10,00( The other part of the act, H.R. as the training and testing operating courage the construction and gross tons and have at least 2(K] 3822, amends provisions of the American mariners have to go Rep. Unsoeld around the operation of U.S.-flag cruise berths. Cruise ships built to Capital Construction Fund and through. world fly the Finally, the SIU stated that na­ ships along America's Atlantic, replace interim vessels must carry Internal Revenue Service to Pacific and Gulf coasts. at a minimum 80 percent of the stimulate the growth of a U.S.- tional security would be im­ U.S. flag—:theSIU-crewedSS/nproved with additional U.S.-flag dependence and SS Constitution. Under the terms of the act, passenger capacity of the flag cruise industiy. cruise vessels. These ships could More than 4 million people took which is written as two bills, original. Union Announces Support be used during military opera­ cruise trips in 1992, the last full foreign-flag passenger cruise ves­ Interim endorsements are tions as hospital vessels, recrea­ year that reports are available, In April, the subcommittee sels operating from American good for 12 months unless the tional facilities, command/ spending close to $5 billion. Ap­ ports would be allowed to re-flag owner of the vessel has entered held a hearing on the act during control centers and offshore bar­ proximately 85 percent of the under the U.S.-flag provided the into a contract to build in a U.S which the SIU testified in favor. passengers were Americans. companies that own the ships shipyard one or more replace­ The union noted to the panel that racks. commit to build replacement pas­ ment ships. The endorsement senger vessels, and then begin next would expire 12 months later construction of the vessels in U.S. unless construction for the re­ shipyards. Both the interim U.S.- placement vessel or vessels hat flag ships and the replacement begun. vessels would be crewed by One amendment passed by the American merchant mariners. subcommittee stipulated that all • Creating a "model com­ need to move more quickly to Transportation Secretary vessels operating as interim U.S.- Federico Pena last month out­ pany" program that would allow protect an American-flag fleet Amendments Added flag ships must meet U.S. Coast lined a four-point program the vessels of a company that had that has been and should be the In preparing the act so it can be Guard regulations for foreign designed to make America's instituted a rigorous system of pride of this nation." considered by the House Mer­ ships that sail into American har­ The congressman's response shipyards more competitive quality management to be in­ chant Marine and Fisheries Com- bors. was joined by Eugene Pen­ spected less frequently by the globdly. mittee, the subcommittee Another amendment called for The policy involves the vessel Coast Guard than is provided fof timonti, government services vice president for American design compliance programs as by law; and • Establishing a Coast Guard President Lines (APL), upon well as the elimination of un­ necessary regulations concerning oversight program which would whose U.S.-flag containerships U.S.-built vessels that are over­ verify the quality management Seafarers crew the galleys. Pentimonti advised the sub­ programs of participating ship­ seen by the U.S. Coast Guard. In announcing the program on ping companies and classification committee that APL and SeaLand (whose unlicensed crews on Civilian and military par­ sofed training for mariners on June 22, Pena noted that the chan­ societies. U.S.-flag ships are^made up of SIU Several of the provisions in the ges "neither degrade safety for the ticipants attending a conference rotation or reserve to keep their members) presently are building 13 initiative could be implemented crews and passengers of U.S. ships addressing the future needs of the skills up-to-date. vessels in foreign shipyards and immediately while others needed nor diminish the protection af­ Maritime Administrator Al­ U.S,-flag maritime industry and cannot wait another year for legis­ congressional approval. To that forded to the environment. These its role in supporting the U.S. bert Herberger headed a panel lative action or else the ships will end, the House Coast Guard and critical safety and environmental armed forces agreed at the end of that looked into the economic and »oals can be achieved while openNavigation Subcommittee held a fly foreign flags. the two-day meetiiig that national security implications of He added, "When Sea-Land American merchant mariners are a U.S.-flag merchant marine. He :ng new avenues for U.S. ship­ hearing on Pena's proposal on asked the shipyard building its a vital component to the country's was joined by John Moran, builders and ship operators to June 23. Rear Admiral Arthur Henn, the newly ordered vessels how much economic and national security minority counsel for the Senate compete on a global scale." Among the items included in vice commandant for the Coast more it would cost to build those Merchant Marine Subcommittee; goals for the next century. Guard, told the subcommittee that vessels to U.S. standards, they Called by the Department of Geoffrey Ogden, State Depart­ the secretary's initiative are: • Allowing shipbuilders or the Department of Transportation were told the cost would be $10 Transportation and the Department ment director for maritime land of Defense (DOD), the conference and transport; and Navy Vice Ad­ ship owners the Option to rely on agency had already begun work to million more per ship." classification society standards enact Pena's outline, which was included an array of panel discus­ miral Frank Donovan. A pilot program is expected to sions and speakers from maritime The panel looking into DOD rather than specific Coast Guard developed with input from the begin this month to test whether labor, the U.S.-flag shipping in­ sealift requirements was led by regulatory requirements; maritime industry. the alternative compliance pro­ dustry and the U.S. milit^. Navy Vice Admiral Michael Kal• Permitting regulatoiy com­ However, when Henn advised gram will work. The Transporta­ The goal of the meeting, held leres, head of the Military Sealift pliance verification by qualified, the subcommittee that the legisla­ tion Department said it was June 21 and 22, was to examine Command. Also on the committee responsible classification tion necessary to change U.S. seeking volunteers and, so far, six the mid- and long-range require­ were Navy Vice Admiral John La- societies and not just the regulations could be ready in a companies with vessel inspection ments for both the U.S.-flag Plante, logistics director for the American Bureau of Shipping, year. Rep. Martin Lancaster (D- certificates expiring in July, maritime industry and DOD. Joint Chiefs of Staff; Army the official classification society N.C.) took issue with it. August and September have ex­ Conferees took part in workshops Brigadier General John Handy of for the U.S. government; Lancaster told Henn there is " pressed interest in participating. and came up with several recom­ the U.S. Transportation Command; mendations dealing with the and Army BrigadierGeneral Roger goal's implications on national Thompson of the Military Traffic security and economic issues. Management Command. A third panel dealt with Among the recommendations The U.S. Coast Guard and the and the 7th in the Southeast U.S. Milwaukee. outlined by the workshop par- maritime industry requirements. Vlilitary Sealift Commant- and Caribbean). Additionally, he From December 1989 to Led by Eugene Pentimonti of Pacific Fleet (MSCPAC) recently commanded the Coast Guard's November 1991, Shaver com­ ticiparits were: • Maintain a vigorous, active American President Lines (APL), underwent changes of command. largest base, which is located at manded the USS Cimarron. U.S.-flag merchant marine in others taking part were SIU Ex­ Admiral Robert E. Kramek Governors Island, N.Y. During that period, the fleet oiler peace through the use of various ecutive Vice President Joseph was sworn in June 1 at Coast The admiral's awards are was decorated for its participation existing and proposed promotion­ Sacco; Jack Goldstein, president Guard Headquarters in numerous, including the Coast in Operations Desert Shield/ of OMI; William Verdon, senior Washington by Transportation Guard Distinguished Service Desert Storm, as well as for res­ al programs; • Declassify and debate a Navy vice president with Crowley Secretary Federico Pena as the Medal and two Legion of Merit cuing Vietnamese refugees in the study that reports billions of dol­ Maritime; Kenneth Gaulden of 20th commandant of the Coast Awards. Western Pacific and North lars could be saved by replacing Sea-Land; and Coast Guard Cap­ Guard. He succeeds Admiral J. Captain Eric B. Shaver recent­ Arabian Sea. uniformed crews with civilians tain Gordon Marsh. iVilliam Kime, who retired. ly succeeded the retiring Captain Shaver twice has been A final group looked into on auxiliary vessels; Prior to assuming the position L. Michael Pivonka as com­ decorated with the Meritorious • Guarantee re-employment Defense Department and industry of commandant, Kramek served mander of the MSCPAC. Service Medal. rights including union benefits intermodal requirements. WiUiam as the Coast Guard's chief of The change of command for­ MSCPAC operates an array of for merchant mariners who left Lucas, deputy to the commander of staff. In that capacity, he was mally took place May 25 at a ships crewed by military person­ land-based jobs to crew ships the Milit^ Management Traffic responsible for the agency's ceremony in Oakland, Calif. nel and civilian mariners, includCommand, and Carl Seiberlich, during national emergencies; management, administration and Shaver had been working at ing members of the SIU's • Permit Ready Reserve Force military programs director for APL inancial resources. Military Sealift Command head­ Government Services Division. (RRF) ships to be activated on a ran this panel. Kramek's background also in­ quarters in Washington as the The vessels include fleet oilers, Other workshops looked into reduced operating status; • Seek full funding of the RRF DOD and industry needs con­ cludes experience as a surface fleet support director. His back­ supply and ammunition ships, fleet while keeping its operations cerning shipbuilding and man­ operations specialist and Naval ground also includes sea tours fleet tugs, missile tracking and within the Maritime Administra­ power. Augie Tellez, SIU vice engineer. He formerly com­ aboard the USS Allen M. Sumner, oceanographic research vessels, tion; and president for contracts, served as manded twoCoast Guard districts USS Steinaker, USS Thomas C. ocean surveillance ships and a Establish govemment-spon- member of the manpower panel. 'the 13th in the Pacific Northwest Hart, USS Mount Baker and USS hospital ship. Pena Releases 4~Point Program To Make US. Shipyards CompetiUve Merchant Fleet is Vital For America's Goals p-'^^ ' ''' " '"* '"^1? 'fe';. ; Coast Guard, MSCPAC Change Commanders •'3: 7/ •. . . V- JWl �T - ;i ' ' • • : iV- .-f'- ;'-'1 i _ lii^, | •;; ; • - '- "ifiii---^- • JULY 1994 ••>... ..- •' -.;.../.-v.y --'• SEAFARERS LOG ^ 5 Car Carriw Re-nagged; Seafyms Jafii Sftip Seafarers aboard the car car­ rier Fidelia had nothing but praise for the newly contracted vessel being operated by International Marine Carriers (IMC). "This vessel is re^ly great," Chief Steward Patrick Aquia told New York Patrolman Jack Sheehan when the Fidelia docked at Bayonne, N.J. following its first voyage. "With everything so bright and new, the crew is work­ ing hard to keep it looking and >1 : operating at its best. Seafarers boarded the vessel in a Singapore shipyard in March after the Japanese-built carrier was converted to meet U.S. Coast Guard regulations and re-flagged under the U.S. flag. The crew sailed the Fidelia to Antwerp, Belgium where it was loaded with automobiles and military vehicles. The Fidelia, built in 1987, is capable of holding 5,800 automobiles per load. However, the roll-on/roll-off ship was fitted with retractable decks which allow it to carry agricultural im­ plements, tanks and helicopters. The 620-foot vessel is sailing between the U.S. East Coast and Western Europe, making the roundtrip approximately every 30 days. Its 11,850-combined-horsepower diesel engines are capable of a top speed of 17 knots. According to IMC Port En­ gineer Tom Murray, the Fidelia will be loaded whenever it cros­ ses the Atlantic. The vessel is contracted to carry Americanmade Chrysler and Honda automobiles as well as Ford and Chief Steward Patrick Aquia (seated, center) says the crew enjoys International farm implements to the Fidelia's new look. Joining him are Chief Cook Julius Henderson Europe. The holds on the return (standing), SA Carolyn Riskey (seated, left) and AS M. Garcia. voyages will include BMW Jaguar and Volvo automobiles Ford and International lawn trac­ tors and U.S. military tanks helicopters and other equipment. Besides Bayonne and Antwerp, other regularly Recently transferred to the U.S. registry, the FIdeliohas started sailing scheduled ports of call include between U.S. East Coast and Western European ports with Seafarers Charleston, S.C. and Bremerhaven, Germany. making up the crew. Matson Begins W, Coast Shuttle andFeeder Service , Golden Monarch is Converted From Tanker to Bulk Grain Carrier "fr ^ Apex Marine Corp. recently completed a major conversion project involving the SlU-crewed Galden Manarch. Formerly a tanker, the 19year-old vessel was converted to a bulk grain carrier and also un­ derwent numerous upgrades. It is scheduled to sail from Korea early this month. "Apex Marine's decision to complete this conversion was based upon a strong commitment to the American merchant marine and the cargo preference pro­ gram," said Robert Kunkel, senior marine superintendent for the company. "The project was envisioned to promote the U.S. merchant fleet, lower U.S. cargo preference rates and continue to prove that U.S.-flag vessels are cost-competitive and reliable." The Manarch's existing cargo space was increased by removing the longitudinal bullheads and installing upper and lower hopper plates to create a modem bulk carrier cargo hold space. Most of the work was done in the Hyundai As part of the conversion process, hydraulically operated hatch covers Mipo Dockyard of South Korea. were installed at the main deck. Additionally, the ship's cargo access and transfer systems were Manarch underwent major refur­ nologies and applying them to a upgraded in the United States. A bishing in its propulsion plant and marine environment. For ex­ new type of hydraulically machinery space, also in the U.S. ample, the vessel was fitted with operated hatch cover system (spe­ Modifications were completed in a Volmar Moletron Static gener­ cially designed for conversions of the vessel's combustion control ator utilizing type 6.0 ultrasonic this type) was installed. and fuel oil delivery system, waves to treat fuel oil before comAlong with those conversions, taking advantage of new bustion in a new Todd TCD the 90,000 DWT Galden shoreside power plant fech- burner system, in order to reduce fuel consumption and stack gases for environmental purposes. Apex Marine also had in­ stall^ on the vessel two state-ofthe-art radar systems, with the work done in Florida. "The conversion project was designed to . . . open additional trade routes not available under a tanker configuration," Kunkel added. "In turn, the vessel's economic life would be extended for approximately 10 years and generate seagoing positions for American merchant seamen." Another SlU-crewed tanker operated by Apex Marine, the The vessel's existing cargo space was modified by removing the American Heritage, is scheduled ongitudinal bulkheads and installing upper and lower hopper plates to undergoa similar conversion in Decemt«r. o create a modem bulk carrier cargo hold space. i : J;; ; ' ' - The SlU-crewed Manulani begins weekly feeder shuttle service be­ tween Los Angeles, Seattle and Vancouver as of July 10. The SlU-crewed Manulani will begin service July 10 on a new West Coast shuttle service being implemented by Matson Navigation Company. Crewmembers are expected to sign on July 7 in San Francisco where the containership is being converted to handle 20 and 40foot boxes. (Standard Matson container sizes are 24 and 40 feet.) Following the conversion, the ship will handle an average of 350 containers per trip. Joining Seafarers from the At­ lantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District who will sail in the galley of the Manulani are members of two other SlUNA-affiliated unions. The unlicensed deck department will be made up of mariners from the Sailors' Union of the Pacific while the unlicensed engine department will be composed of members of the Marine Firemen's Union. The shuttle service is designed to provide a weekly coastwise feeder service for companies operating in the foreign trades. TTie Manulani will sail between Los Angeles, Seattle and Van­ couver, British Columbia. Transit time from both Los Angeles to Seattle and Vancouver to Los An­ geles is expected to be two days and nine hours. The time between Seattle and Vancouver is planned to be eight hours. In announcing the service, Matson officials said they expect the shuttle to offer transit times and freight rates that will make it competitive with other modes of transportation along the coast. Matson, which provides regular containership service be­ tween the West Coast and Hawaii, also operates a weekly southbound feeder between Seat­ tle and Oakland, Calif. Seafarers Meet with Pa. Gubernatorial Candidate SIU members from the port of Philadelphia recently met with Pennsylvania Lt. Gov. Mark Singel, the Democratic nominee for governor, as he campaigned around the dock facilities. Surround­ ing Singel (in the suit) are, from left. Seafarers Billy Brown, Pat Bradley, John Chapin, Tim Bums, Ed Garrity and Tim Hughes. ... I.,..-;- �6 f SEAFARERS LOG JULY 1994 ::r : r WWII Mariners Not ForgoHen In D-Day IMbutes The vitally important role of the U.S. merchant marine in World War II was overlooked for many years by the American government and laymen alike. But at ceremonies last month in England and in Normandy commemorating the 50th an­ niversary of D-Day, merchant seamen got their due. President Clinton on June 5 became the first U.S. president Within memory to visit an American-flag cargo ship when he boarded the Jeremiah O'Brien, anchored off Portsmouth, England, near its exact position 50 years ago, just before the D-Day invasion. He Was joined by First Lady Hillary Rodham Clinton, as well as Maritime Administrator Albert J. Herberger and AFL-CIO Presi­ dent Lane Kirkland, who sailed during World War II as a member of the Masters, Mates & Pilots. AP Photo by Doug Mills The next day, a dozen crewmembers from the O'Brien—z President Clinton greets crewmembers of the Liberty ship Jeremiah O'Brien taking part in D-Day Liberty ship which sailed from San ceremonies off Portsmouth, England. At center is Rear Admiral Thomas Patterson (Rtd). Francisco in April to take part in the historic ceremonies—^were seated and to expand the blessings of most of the troops and supplies on ocean-going vessel which in the second row, alongside am­ liberty," the president said at the D-Day .and in Ae crucial supply rptumed for the 50-year anniver­ line that followed until the Ger­ sary activities. bassadors and other high-ranking ceremony. Built in Maine in 1943, the Motioning toward the man surrender in May 1945. government officials fiom many O'Brien made seven voyages Also known as Operation nations, as Clinton delivered a hundreds of D-Day veterans in at­ during the war. The ship was Overlord, the^invasion, of course, speech from Normandy that was tendance, he said, "Let us never mothballed for more than 30 was successful—and costly. forget: \^en they were young, reported around the world. years after the war, but eventually More than 9,000 Americans lost these men saved the world." Active and retired members of was saved as a memorial. It was their lives on the beachheads, and Dozens of military ships and the Sailors' Union of the Pacific reconditioned in '79 and declared Canadian and British forces also more than 100 warplanes from (SUP) and the Marine Firemen, a national historic landmark in sustained heavy casualties. In­ the Allied nations were on hand Oilers, Watertenders and Wipers '80. deed, the fighting that took place for the massive commemora­ (MFOW), both affiliates of the Operated under the authority Seafarers International Union of tion, which lasted for several during the 11 months after June 6 of the Maritime Administration was some of the fiercest and days. Other related ceremonies, North America, were among the and associated with the San Fran­ O'Brien's crew of 56 Also on including re-enactments of the bloodiest of the war. But it set the stage for ultimate cisco Maritime National Historic board were retirees from the invasion, took place in the victory, over Hitler's forces, Park, the O'Brien required Marine Cooks and Stewards, United States. Media coverage of D-Day's which in turn allowed the Allies hundreds of thousands of manwhich merged with the SIU in 50th anniversary was exhaustive, to concentrate their full force on hours for reconditioning in 1978. preparation for this year's voyage In all, 18 of the crewmembers largely because the invasion is the war in the Pacific. to Normandy. {The San Francis­ recognized as the turning point in served during World War II. O'Brien's Journey co Chronicle sent a reporter along "Even though the Cold War is the war against Nazi Germany. Remarkably, of the nearly for the voyage and published over, we are still on the eve of June 6, 1944 marked the largest great endeavors—not to turn back amphibious military operation 6,500 military and privately daily articles filed from the ship.) Two other World War Il-era armies of oppression which ever launched, and thousands of owned ships which were part of threaten our very existence, but to merchant mariners—including the invasion in 1944, the merchant ships—the John W. protect our safety and security many SIU members—delivered Jeremiah O'Brien is the only Brown and the Lane Victory— had been scheduled to travel with the O'Brien to France. But finan­ cial problems prevented the Brown from making the voyage, and the Lane Victory was sidelined with mechanical dif­ ficulties shortly after it had set sail. President Welcomed The entire complement aboard the historic ship reportedly gave a rousing welcome to President Clinton. The president shook hands with each crewmember and thanked the veterans for their ser­ vice. He sported a cap and per­ sonalized sweatshirt each emblazoned with the Jeremiah O'Brien name and logo. The vessel is scheduled to set sail for the U.S. in late July and arrive in San Francisco by early October. if SUP Bosun Logs Journey Rich Reed, an actiye SUP member who sailed as the bosun aboard the O'Brien, reported some of the journey's highlights in letters to the SUP's monthly newspaper. "I have all watches on deck (three-man watches), plus three day men," Reed wrote. "All the overtime you want and no beefs with the mate. You can't fire a volunteer!" He mentioned some of the dif­ ferences between sailing the Liberty ship as compared to modem vessels. For example, the O'Brien crew fills coal chutes for the galley range, hand-steers on watch and hangs clothes to dry, he wrote. There was much work to be done, such as painting, cleaning and maintaining the engines, often in stifling heat. But the crew withstood the heat and enjoyed lots of sea stories and BS on No. 4 hatch each night," Reed wrote. I'm glad that's one tradition we've kept going on here." WSB Report SpoiUghts Dangers Inland BUI Seeks Crew Italnlng Continued from page 3 ministration to develop a system to assess "the vulnerability of the nation's highway and railroad bridges to collisions from marine vessels" and to rank the stractures in order of greatest risk. The board also recommended that a system of markings be created to alert mariners to bridges and readily identify the structures in the event of an accident. Finally, the NTSB urged DOT to develop a program complete with com­ munication aids that calls on employees to report when they are taking medication no matter if it is over-the-counter or prescription—while working. Causes Outlined The board listed four "probable causes" for the accident of Amtrak's Sunset Limited. The report noted the Mauvilla 's pilot, who had become lost and disoriented in dense fog conditions, was not competent in radar navigation. The board cited War­ rior & Gulf for not ensuring that their towboat operator was competent to use radar to navigate during periods of reduced visibility. Also listed as reasons for the accident was the Coast Guard's failure to establish higher standards for inland towing vessel operator licensing as well as federal and private organizations for not instituting an effective program for assessing and managing risks to this bridge." Investigators for the board arrived on the scene of the derailment hours after it occurred on September 22 to collect evidence and interview those involved in the disaster. The board also conducted a public hearing in Mobile over a three-day period during December. Company Cited In its findings, the NTSB determined that Warrior & Gulf did not provide the pilot of the Mauvilla with adequate radar navigation training nor did the company have in place an evaluation of crewmem­ bers that could "identify and assess those skills critical to vessel operation." It added that the company did not provide a com­ pass on board the vessel. The board noted that if the pilot of the tug had used radar as the fog reduced visibility, "he could have observed the in­ tersection formed by the Mobile River and the Big Bayou Canot and could have avoided turning his tow and barges into the wrong waterway." The report went on to say, "The pilot exercised poor decision making, including his approach under prevailing conditions to an unidentified object without summon­ ing help from other crewmembers, includ­ ing his continuing to navigate and not 'pushing in.'" The paper released by the NTSB was called an "Abstract of Final Report." The complete text of the report is expected to be finished and released later this year. Continued from page 3 testing. If enacted, H.R. 4058 would subject all towing vessels that push or pull barges— regardless of size or location—to U.S. Coast Guard inspections. Presently, the only towing vessels that are inspected are those that are greater than 300 gross tons operating seaward of the shoreline. The Towing Safety Act would increase the crewing requirements of uninspected towing vessels by legislating that all boat­ men involved in the operation hold Coast Guard-issued merchant mariner docu­ ments, known as z-cards, and that at least 65 percent of the crew be certified able bodied seamen (ABs). Another bill before the committee is the Towing Vessel Navigational Safety Act (H.R. 3282). This bill, introduced by Representative Billy Tauzin (D-La.), re­ quires that all inland waterway vessels be equipped with marine charts, navigational publications, compass, radar and fathometer. Both bills are awaiting action by the Merchant Marine and Fisheries Commit­ tee. The House Coast Guard and Naviga­ tion Subcommittee has held several hear^ ings on inland safety since the Mauvilla accident on September 22. The SIU testified before the subcom­ mittee in October that the Amtrak acci­ dent showed the need for the Coast Guard to issue z-cards to boatmen as a way to ensure greater safety on the inland water­ ways. The union noted that by issuing documents, the Coast Guard could keep people who had been involved in an acci­ dent from changing companies and risk­ ing another accident with them. Administration Pushes Effort The efforts to improve safety along the inland waterways has a strong ^vocate in the Clinton administration. In December, Transportation Secretary Federico Pena proposed a series of regulations that would be implemented by the Coast Guard and the Federal Rail­ road Administration to prevent another such accident from happening. Among his recommendations were more stringent licensing requirements for operators of tug and towboats, improved radar and navigational equipment on inland vessels and improved emergency communica­ tions and preparedness. Pena then testified before the subcom­ mittee in March. He called improving the safety along America's inland waterways "one of our highest priorities." The secretary discussed in detail his plans for inland waterway safety. Besides what he had recommended in December, he added the need for Coast Guard documentation of all boatmen. He asked Congress to use the first anniversary of the Amtrak accident as a deadline for having legislation on the president's desk for his signature. i: f/:'-/ �JULY 1994 SEAFARERS LOG SlU-l^'ewetl OrguM Tugs Opaute at Hear Capacity Reviewing paperwork on the Renshawis Lead Deckhand Paul Smith. P-' ••r'ia-.'^j;-- Cook Peggy Robinett of the Renshaw prepares for a safety drill. SlU-crewed Orgulf tugboats are operating at near capacity levels one year after devastat­ ing floods along the Mississippi River and its tributaries forced many of the vessels to tie up for weeks at a time. Orgulf vessels like the Ralph Plagge and Ed Renshaw have been sailing the upper Mis­ sissippi River as well as the Illinois, Ohio and Tennessee rivers since early spring, moving coal, mulch, scrap and other dry cargo. Due to the nature of the cargo carried by Orgulf tugs, the vessels have not been af­ fected by the low yields of grain caused by last year's flooding. Crews have been very ac­ tive since they resumed operations after the winter layup in making up for what could not be carried last year. Both the Plagge and Renshaw have been able to sail recently with their full 15-barge configurations because of the amount of cargo available and good sailing conditions. "It's been great to get back to work on the upper river," Charles Power, lead deckhand on the Plagge, told the Seafarers LOG. The boatman added sailing has been a lot smoother this year than last year when flood waters limited then closed sailing for most of the summer. Lead Deckhand Paul Smith of the Ren­ shaw noted his vessel "has had to deal with some shoaling but that has been taken care of quickly. Otherwise everything has been good." (Shoaling occurs when sandbars shift to block navigable river channels. Dredges are brought in by the Army Corps of Engineers to re-open the channel.) Orgulf, which is based in Cincinnati, operates tugs and barges along the Mississip­ pi River. While the upper part of the river closes in winter because of ice and bad . weather, the company operates vessels yearround from Moore's Landing, Mo. south to New Orleans. Utilityman Richard Taylor inspects Henshaiv's safety gear in locker. •r .. Ready to shove off is Renshaw Deckhand Eddie Oliver Jr. Relaxingwithicedteabeforeretumingtowork Deckhand Charles Creamer examines the Filling out a patrolman's report on the P/aggeCook Edwin Calvert asks if anyone on the P/agge is Utilityman David House. P/agge's itinerary. P/agge is Lead Deckhand Charles Power, is ready for seconds. on Boat Seafarers Endorse New Pact r ;•: „,, Seafarers who deliver oil products in t|ie Norfolk, Va. inner harbor area for Marine Oil Service have ratified a new three-year contract with the company. The pact, effective June 30, covers wages, benefits and working conditions into 1997. Included in the new contract is outpatient medical care for the spouses and dependents of members who work aboard the oil boats for Marine Oil Service. Negotiations were held in Norfolk on June 1 and June 21. Captain Charles Mathews served as fleet delegate for the union negotiating team and worked with Norfolk Port Agent Mike Paladino during the deliberations. Members voted at the Norfolk union hall. Seafarers sail aboard two vessels operated by Marine Oil Service. They are the oil boats Martin J. Hanley and Mustank. The boats bring lube oil, bunker oil and various other types of oil products to vessels anchored In the Sewells Point and Lynnhaven, Va. areas surrounding Norfolk. BKitnwtt Ratify Hew Contract RHth Assodatkm ofHU, fVlnts A new three-year contract has been ratified by Seafarers who sail with the Association of Maryland Pilots of Lynnhaven, Va. and Solomons Is­ land, Md. that will cover wages and benefits into 1997. The new agreement will in­ crease wages and provide im­ proved medical and pension benefits for members who sail aboard vessels for the association. Seafarers operate and man Captain Charles Mathews sen/ed as the fleet delegate during the Pilot Boat Maryland, Pilot Marine Oil contract negotiations. Boat Baltimore, Pilot Boat Virginia Piiots Are Updated on Union Business Operators Lyman Lawrence (left) and Dean Everton (right), wtio sail for the Virginia Pilots Association, discuss unionmatters with Norfolk Port Agent Mike Paladino. Lawrence and Everton handle the boats that carry pilots aboard vessels sailing between Cape Henry, Va. and the Potomac River. Vedette and Pilot Boat Calvert, which are Used to transport pilots to and from vessels be­ tween Cape Henry, Va. and Chesapeake City, Md. The pilots board the vessels and chart the course so that ships can maneuver safely through the waterways. SIU members ratified the contract on June 15 (retroactive to April 30), after a total of four negotiating sessions were con­ ducted at either the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, Md. or the Seafarers union hall in Norfolk, Va. For the first time, outpatient medical care is available for the spouses and dependents of Seafarers who sail for the pilot .'.a' association. The new pact also includes an uncapped pension. Delegates to the talks be­ tween the union and the Maryland-based company in­ cluded Deckhand Marc Gorfine and Operators Larry Carter, Ed Smith and Clarence Tyler. Completing the union negotiating team were Assistant Vice President, Lakes and Inland Waters Anthony SacCo and Norfolk Port Agent Mike Paladino. SIU members are the operators and deckhands aboard the four pilot boats that transfer the pilots to and from the ves­ sels. In addition, they perform routine maintenance on each boat, ensuring that they are in top condition at all times. Before shoving off to assist a vessel, Dec^tjand Marc Gorfine (left) explains the provisions of the new three-yeaf>act for the Maryland Pilots with Operator Jerry Halsey. 'f'-y •; A.., �tMmM: 8 SEAFARERS LOG JULY 1994 Congress Continues Work on Hoaitii Care Referm current without recommendation. I Workers across America are government's Employee Health employer mandate, with low- covering the would establish a single-payer focusing on the push to enact na Benefits PIM. wage firms of 50 or fewer beneficiaries. system similar to the one used in tional health care reform that is employees receiving subsidies to Ford Bills MoynlhanBIII Canada continuing in the House am meet tihe mandate. Unemployed Once all of the House bills are The House Education and Senate, with committee chairmen At press time, the Senate citizens also would receive sub­ out of committee, they will be setting the July 4 recess as the Finance Committee was discuss sidies to purchase coverage, Labor Committee, chaired by combined into one by House deadline to report out their ing in closed session a bill spon which would be available as a Rep. William Ford (D-Mich.) Speaker Thomas Foley (Dsored also has passed two health care respective versions of legislation by its chairman. Senator new part of Medicare. Wash.) and House Majority Health care is an issue of vita Daniel Patrick Moynihan (D A number of tax changes bills, while the House Energy and Leader Richard Gephardt (Dimportance to the insured and N.Y.). It aims to assure coverage would be instituted, including an Commerce Committee in late Mo.), then sent to the Rules Com­ uninsured alike. Many of the for most Americans by 1998 anc excise tax on private health June reported that it was dead­ uninsured remain one serious in­ for at least 98.5 percent of the premiums and an increased locked and therefore was ceasing mittee. On the Senate side. Majority Leader George Mitchell jury or illness away from finan population by the year 2000, with cigarette tax. its efforts to draft a bill. (D-Maine) has the option of com­ The first bill sponsored by The cost-control provision cial ruin. Meanwhile, those with Medicare remaining separate. health insurance, includin The bill includes short-term takes a wait-and-see approach. If Ford calls for universal coverage bining the bills before sending Seafarers, shoulder the costs coverage for treatments of major premiums and other m^ical ex­ and includes an employer man­ one or more to the floor for (such as emergency-room care injuries and illnesses with rapic penses have not slowed suffi­ date. It includes coverage for doc­ debate. Substitutes may be offered of the uninsured, in the forms o onset and brief duration; and for ciently (according to targets tor and hospital bills, prescription higher premiums and higher fees prescription drugs and menta establish^ in the bill) by the year drugs, mental health, substance during debate in both the House health. It leaves the decision 2001, then the government would abuse and some dental benefits. and Senate. The House/Senate for services. Congress—at least those regarding coverage for abortion be able to issue a fee schedule for Small businesses would receive Conference Committee eventual­ members who favor some sort o up to a National Health Boarc doctors. subsidies to help cover the man­ ly will for^B one final version, which is returned to each cham­ As with the other bills, this one date. created by the bill. mandated health care reform Moynihan's bill also may fea­ would eliminate Medicaid while hopes to pass a bill by the end of The second bill was reported ber for a vote. ture an employer mandate, exthis session in October. cepting (at least initially) The AFL-CIO, long proponent of universal health )usinesses with 20 or fewer coverage (meaning coverage for employees; and assessments on every U.S. citizen), has stated that Some large employers. Un­ it will only support a health care covered, low-income citizens reform bill if the legislation would receive subsidies to pur­ American President Lines jammed up against the back of the guarantees comprehensive chase health coverage. Some coverage for every U.S. citizen, small businesses would have the APL) has filed a suit in federal house. The containers were lock­ distributes costs fairly, ensures option of purchasing insurance district court calling for the ed together by the force of the cost-control measures and does through the federal employees' seizure and sale of a Hanjin Ship­ collision. ping vessel to cover the cost of To keep from losing the ves­ not make any portion of health plan. However, committee mem­ repairs to an SlU-crewed APL sel, the captain of the Washington care benefits taxable income. The federation of U.S. trade unions, of bers reportedly were considering vessel following a collision be- ran it aground in a mud bank. The which the Seafarers is a mem­ a measure proposed by Senator ween the two outside Pusan Har- APL ship then was towed to the Pusan pier where dockworkers ber, backs the main components ohn Breaux (D-La.) and Senator jor. South Korea in May. The lawsuit is seen as an effort began the effort of offloading un­ of President Clinton's Health bhn Chafee (R-R.I.) that would Security Act, which, along with invoke an employer mandate only jy APL to reach a satisfactory damaged containers and remov­ other proposals, has been used if voluntary steps did not substan­ settlement out of court with the ing damaged boxes. by congressional committees as tially reduce the number of unin­ South Korean company concemContainer Fire a basis for crafting their own sured Americans (currently ing the accident. APL's President Washington Around 2 a.m. on May 6, a fire estimated at 40 million). This bills. was preparing to pick up a pilot to broke out among the containers. The following is a look at component is referred to as a soft enter Pusan Harbor around 10:30 Because of the condition and some of the legislation under con­ rigger, and the AFL-CIO p.m. on May 2 when it was struck position of the boxes, fire crews sideration. Other health care bills staunchly opposes it because After being recognized for his also have been crafted, but they soft triggers are simply a way for on the port hull by the Hanjin from the Washington and the port firefighting efforts, Seafarer Ricarhave yet to be addressed by the Congress to delay a decision it Hongkong, ripping a 100-foot authority had a difficult time do Sanchez (left) of the USNS Andrew J. Higgins shakes hands committees which have jurisdic­ should make this year: to guaran­ ;ash into the Washington. isolating and control the blaze. with Vice Adm. Michael Kalleres, Several containers fell overboard, Helicopter air drops of fire tion over health care reform. tee every American health in­ head of the Military Sealift Com­ some landing on the deck of the retardant chemicals and water Therefore, the Seafarers LOG surance coverage that can't be mand. J longkong. Many other boxes on were attempted in an effort to this month is focusing on legisla­ aken away," the federation said tion that has been address^ by in a letter to President Clinton. le APL vessel ripped open and keep the fire from spreading be­ tween containers stacked on the patched to help the extinguish the those committees. The AFL-CIO further described twisted together. vessel. le soft trigger as a means of fire. Tremendous Impact Kennedy Bill Flames continued to spread, raising Americans' hopes for With extensive training in Assistant Cook Ernesto Bil- endangering some volatile cargo combating fires aboard vessels. The Senate Labor and Human real reform while delivering anuba told the Seafarers LOG and threatening to bum into the Seafarers from the Higgins and Resources Committee has ap­ much less." proved a bill sponsored by its The Moynihan-sponsored that the force of the collision al­ aft superstructure and engineer­ Navy personnel from the Mobile chairman. Senator Edward M. egislation also includes a new tax most knocked him out of his bunk ing spaces. The President Bay concentrated on locating and Washington firefighters and local attacking the fires within the con­ Kennedy (D-Mass.). on private health premiums and where he was sleeping. "The alarms went off and we fire departments fought the blaze tainer stack while Korean teams This legislation calls for increased taxes on cigarettes and reported to the deck," Billanuba for more than eight hours before poured large volumes of cooling coverage for every U.S.citizen by landguns and ammunition. 1998 and includes coverage for Like the Kennedy bill, this one recalled. "It was foggy and we calling for additional help. water on the containers to protect doctor and hospital bills, mental would eliminate Medicaid while could not see clearly, but we the firefighters and prevent the Other Ships Help health, prescription drugs, long- )roviding coverage for current could not believe what had hap­ spread of the fire. pened." Teams from the SIU's term home care and abortion. Medicaid beneficiaries. Korean firefighters also cut Although no serious injuries Government Services Division- into the upper containers in order Medicare would remain separate. Cost-control goals would be Medicaid would be eliminated established. If they are not met resulted from the collision, many crewed USNS Andrew J. Higgins, to combat the fire. Eventually, and optional nursing home in­ within a prescribed time period, of the shipping containers broke USS Mobile Bay, and other land- joint teams from the Washington, surance would be available for an independent commission oose from their restraints and based departments were dis- Higgins and Mobile Bay cut purchase by individuals. (The would recommend corrective through the ship's aft superstmcgovernment would provide measures to Congress, which ture from inside in several places health coverage for current would be mandated to vote on the in order to gain access to the inner Medicaid beneficiaries.) recommendations under fastcontainers and successfully put Financing would come from track procedures. out fires in those boxes 30 hours an employer mandate, with after the fire began. Gibbons Bill employers typically paying at (During the Military Sealift The House Ways and Means least 80 percent of premiums. Command's annual Maritime Businesses with 10 or fewer Committee was scheduled to take Memorial Day ceremony in employees would be exempt final vote June 29 or 30 on the Washington on May 23, three from the mandate. Those )ill sponsored by its acting chair­ crewmembers from the Higgins workers and the unemployed man, Rep. Sam Gibbons (D-Fla.). received special recognition. would be required to purchase Published reports indicated the Among the trio was S^eafarer their own insurance and would Jill would be approved by the Ricardo Sanchez, a carpenter receive government subsidies to committee. aboard the Military Sealift Com­ This bill would guarantee do so. mand-Pacific Fleet oiler.) The Kennedy bill also calls for coverage for all citizens by 1998. The cause of the fire is under t would cover major injuries and an increase on the cigarette tax. investigation and there were no Cost controls would be main­ Inesses with rapid onset and injuries during the firefighting ef­ tained via insurance and market jrief duration; mental health; forts. The Washington is expected reforms, including government jrescription drugs; long-term to be moved to Daewoo Ship­ caps on premiums, and every lome care; and abortion. Damage caused by the collision with the Hanjin Hongkong can be building near Pusan to repair the citizen would have the option to Medicare would remain separate. seen in this photo of the President Wastiington, photographed by vessel once all the containers are The legislation includes an Asst. Cook Emesto Billanuba. buy insurance through the federal removed. APL Files Sutt to Recover Costs For Damages to Pros, Washington �-S ::-j^JJf--^-^ :'^'l^:.^i:::^^::^;ix m.Y1994 SEAFAmHSLOB 9 Chief Steward Patrick Helton purchased smoked salmon In Scotland, which the galley The fruit and cheese tray prepared by Steward Assistant Jason Pechette complegang prepared as part of "a meal fit for royalty." mentedthe Maine lobster feast. Crewmembers aboard the PFC Eugene Obregon know the value of teamwork and taking care of their fellow crewmem­ bers. Whether it is in the galley or the deck department, recent activities reported to the Seafarers LOG aboard the SIUcrewed military prepositioning ship display that the members aboard the Obregon understand what being part of the Brotherhood of the Sea is all crewmembers are our family," noted Helton. Helton stated that in addition to the superb feast of about. lobster, SA Jason Pechette made up a special fruit and But for many crewmembers, comfort is found in the cheese platter to complement the meal and also prepared friendship, dedication and camaraderie on board the a fresh garden salad and a selection of crudites and Obregon in activities that enhance the lives of all crewcooked vegetables. mem^rs while at sea. "I like to have a good wholesome variety in the salad On a recent trip to Belfast, Maine, the crew of the Waterman Steamship vessel exemplified this sense of bar," wrote the chief steward. "Everyone is watching thenunity in fhe form of a special lobster feast. Prepared by sodium, fat and cholesterol intake, so we try to helpout." the steward department with live Maine lobsters ob­ The chief steward then explained why it is important tained while in the New England port, crewmembers to him and the rest of the galley gang to t^e care of their described the dinner as "a meal fit for royalty." shipmates. "We have a great crew on the Obregon. All "As hard as the crew works, they deserve only the departments work well together to maintain a clean and best," wrote Chief Steward Patrick Helton in a letter to efficiently operated vessel," wrote Helton. the Seafarers LOG (accompanied by the photos appear­ Another example of crew dedication aboard the ing on this page). Obregon occurred in February when AB Fred Hunter "It is the responsibility of the steward department on ^scovered and immediately extinguished a small fire any vessel to make sure the crew is provided with a which had developed in the crew living area. selection of wholesome and nutritious foods. We often Hunter told fellow crewmember QMED Bud Tuttle, spend more time on board ship than we do at home, and who informed the Seafarers LOG of the incident, that b^ause of this, our ship is our home and our fellow training at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School had prepared him to battle any type of fire on board a ship. Hunter received special thanks from fellow crewmem­ bers as well as from company officials. "You are to be commended for your aleitness, attention to duty and quick action in fighting the fire on February 3," wrote the director of marine operations for the company in commending the AB. "Your quick response prevented further damage and spreading of the fire. "Since joining the Military Prepositioning Ship (MPS) Program in Tenerife in 1988," he added, "you have proven to be a dedicated, hard-working and knowledgeable seaman and an asset to the MPS pro­ gram. It is because of dedicated crewmembers like you tfiat the Waterman MPS Program has been such a suc­ cess. BRAVO ZULU." The 821-foot long ship is one of three roll-on/roll-off vessels assigned to Maritime Prepositioning Ship Squadron One, located in the Atlantic Ocean. It is fiilly loaded at all times with tanks, vehicles, food and water, fiiel and other materiel to equip first- launch U.S. Marine Corps units for 30 days. TTie vessel currently sails be­ tween Panama City, Ha., Norfolk, Va., Morehead City, N.C. and Portland, Maine. Other SlU-crewed vessels which are assigned to the squadron include the Lt. Stephen W. Pless, Sgt. Matej Kocak and Amsea's 2nd lA. John Bobo. Value of Teamwork Proves Beneficial For Obregon Seafarers •'M • • •m• 1 Hunter was commended by crewmembers and company officials for his fast action In putting Deck department members enjoy the lobster feast. They are, from left, ABs Eddie Gerena and Reeves out a small fire on the Ob/egon. Homby, Bosun Henry Bouganim and ABs Charlie Springle and Tom Culpepper. SA Jason Pech^e pre^res garden salad, part of a healthful choice of foods for those members watching their diets. ^J : -Ii • M- rhief Electrician C W "Buddy" Clackley (left) and DEU Ken Wells enjoy their dinner after a long day of work aboard the prepositioning vessel. Holding up a lobster from the steam kettle is Chief Cook Mariano Martinez. Chief Steward Patrick Helton pulls lobsters from one of three steaming kettles. - '•/ ii. �10 MLYIOOO SEAFARBISL06 -. • y American Kestrel Crew Emphasizes Safety ing such topics as) chemical an( ing activities help keep crewbiological warfare," noted AB members mentally and physically Jeffrey Mangold. "We make sharp in the event of an immedi­ sure we know what to do and ate call-out. Mangold pointed out. "When everybody gets thenwhere to go in the event of an work done, we look forward to emergency. hitting the beach," said Mangold, "It's not repetitious at all, be­ who started his sailing career in cause we cover so many topics. 1979 as a member of the SIU's Plus we know it's important for inland division before switching everyone's safety." The Kestrel is a Lighter to deep ^a. "On Diego Garcia, there's a Aboard Ship (LASH) vessel operated by Osprey Manage­ gym for different kinds of ment. It transports military goods workouts, and there are karate from Diego Garcia to wherever classes and aerobics classes. they are needed. It also carries Archery, pool tables, music, sail­ barges that can be used for load­ boats, bicycling ... you name it, ing and offloading cargo when it's probably there." the Kestrel is unable to dock. Like Mangold, AB Ed Bache Mangold, 40, and the rest of said that he enjoyed the "beautiful the deck gang perform basic weather" and the smorgasbord of maintenance operations aboard recreational activities in Diego the ship, including lots of chip­ Garcia during non-work hours. Bache also mentioned that the ping and painting. But during off-time, many dif­ Kestrel's crewmembers "get ferent shoreside activities are along very well and are hardChief Cook Marco Maffioll and SA James Quinn (standing, left to right) available, marking one of the at­ worldng." check to see how AB Wes Elliott and OMU Carl Neal (seated, left to SIU Port Agent Sal Aquia tractions of sailing in the hot right) are enjoying their meal. Fueling his body with a nutritious climate of the British Indian provided the photos accompany­ meal is AB Gordon Crow. Ocean Territories. Those relax- ing this story. For Seafarers aboard the American Kestrel, working in Diego Garcia means maintaining a busy schedule, including plenty of safety drills. "We take part in many safety drills, and there are weekly lec­ tures and demonstrations (cover- nr Secures Back Pay For Filipino Crewmen In its ongoing efforts to raise tried to force his chief engineer off working standards and pay levels the ship (without pay) after the for crewmembers on runaway-flag chief engineer was on board for 21 ships, the International Transport months continuously." Workers Federation (ITF) recently Runaway-flag vessels are used secured $21,000 in back wages, by shipowners as a means of avoid­ overtime and leave pay for the ing taxes and regulations. Runaway Filipino crew of the bulk carrier registries also allow the shipowner Federal Fraser. to roam the world in search of the Through the efforts of Spiro cheapest and most exploitable Varras, the SIU's ITF inspector, the labor. ^ ITF also succeeded in getting the In a separate case from late last Lunch tastes mighty good to Oiler Antoinette Strauch (left) and Oiler AB Jeffrey Mangold is ready to vessel's captain to retract and then year, the ITF also secured $105,000 participate in a shipboard lecture. Allen Legeune after a full morning of work aboard the Kestrel. correct unfounded, derogatory in back wages, overtime and leave reports he had filed about several pay owed to crewmembers of the crewmembers, and received as­ Maria M., a freighter which sails surance that the ship's stores would under the flag of Cyprus. be upgraded to meet the crew's Viarras assisted the crew— Two changes in the shipping minated the opportunity for Whereas the Union and the satisfaction. primarily comprised of El Salrules recently approved by the seamen who were employed operator of contracted ocean The ITF represents 400 free and vadorans but also including Seafarers Appeals Board deal aboard military contracted ves­ going passenger vessels have democratic trade unions in 100 Greeks, Pakistanis, Guatemalans directly with the seniority status of sels and Steward Department per­ mutually agreed to modify the countries representing workers in and one crewmember each from members who sail aboard military sonnel sailing aboard passenger employment procedures relating various transportation-oriented Tanzania and Ghana—^by negotiat­ and deep sea passenger vessels. vessels, to obtain class "A" to supervisory personnel jobs. Based in London, the or­ ing with the ship's owner. InterAmendment Action 372 sets a seniority with eighteen (18) employed in the hotel section, ganization promotes trade union glory Shipping Ltd. of Cyprus. time limit for members sailing on months employment time aboard which will expedite the training rights and human rights worldwide. Varras secured crewmembers' and upgrading of such personnel, military vessels contracted to such vessels, and repatriation expenses, leave pay civilian employers and galley Whereas, many seamen who resulting in future additional Built In '83 and back pay including 250 hours gang members aboard passenger have sailed exclusively on such employment aboard contracted Built 11 years ago in Glasgow, of overtime, as well as reimburse­ ships to acquire the needed 18 vessels will lose the opportunity to passenger vessels, and Scotland, the Federal Fraser is ments for medical expenses. His Whereas, to ensure that such registered in Manila and flies the efforts also resulted in the ship's months of seatime to obtain an attain Class "A" seniority. Therefore, Rule I Seniority B, personnel shall suffer no loss of flag of the Philippines. It is owned master reversing a previous "A" seniority. In order to qualify for the ac­ (b) shall be amended by adding their employment seniority status. by Crimson Line Ltd. of Japan. All decision by declaring an ailing oiler Rule 1 Seniority shall be amended 24 officers and unlicensed crew are unfit for duty. The oiler was celerated seniority, the 18 months of the following provision: "Unlicensed seamen possess­ in the following manner. seatime must be acquired between Filipino. repatriated. Rule IB 1(d) shall be amended Febmaiy 12,1992 and Febraary 12, ing Class "B" employment Crewmembers contacted Varras The Maria M, which has a crew 1996 when the provision of the seniority, shall be granted Class by adding the following provision while the ship was in port in Port of 18 unlicensed mariners and 10 "A" employment seniority if he to the existing provision. amendment expires. Elizabeth, N.J. and voiced their officers, is operated by M.K.M. "The provisions specified in concerns, among which were Chartering Inc. of New York. It was m Amendment Action 372 is a subsequently possesses a rating paragraph that was accidently above entry level and acquires this subsection (d) shall be ap­ wages that were overdue for built in 1973 in Japan. deleted from the full action's eighteen (18) months seatime plicable to all personnel desig­ months. printing in the April 1994 issue of aboard vessels owned or nated as supervisory personnel in Within days of being contacted chartered by the U.S. Military and the hotel section of contracted by Varras, the shipowner agreed to the Seafarers LOG. Action 373 allows members operated by contracted civilian passenger vessels." pay the amount owed to the crew­ Rule 1B 2(a) shall be amended members, and the captain corrected who have upgraded to supervisory employers pursuant to being suc­ positions in the hotel section of con­ cessful bidders in accordance in the following manner. the erroneous reports he had written a. "All unlicensed seamen who in service record books of some of tracted ocean-going passenger ves­ with Requests for Proposals sels to maintain their SIU seniority (RFP's) and to persons employed possessed such rating on June 16, the crew. provided they continue to sail in a aboard passenger vessels in the 1990, including the supervisory "The working standards and pay supervisory capacity aboard SIU- Steward Department only, personnel employed in the hotel standards on this vessel are far contracted ships for not less than 90 provided such eighteen (18) section of the passenger vessels, below the ITF and the International months employment is obtained pursuant to the Shipping Rules Labor Organization's minimum days per calendar year. Both modifications to the ship­ between February 12, 1992 and then in effect." standards," said Varras. "Obvious­ Rule 1 B2(b) shall be amended ly, on runaway vessels covered by ping rules went into place imme­ February 12, 1996 at which time in the following manner. diately after passage by the board, this provision terminates." ITF affiliates' agreements, the b. "All unlicensed seamen who working standards and pay are which is made up of repre­ Action #373 possess Class C rating, including higher than on this Philippine-flag ITF inspector Spiro Varras (left) sentatives from both the SIU and secured thousands of dollars in The Seafarers Appeals Board supervisory personnel employed vessel. its contracted companies. The back wages for crewmembers of complete text of both modifica­ acting under and pursuant to the in the hotel section of the pas­ "It is horrible that today, we the Philippine-flagged Federal Collective Bargaining Agreement senger vessels, pursuant to these have captains and companies refus­ tions is printed below. between the Union and the various Rules and who have shipped ing to pay earned wages, overtime Fraser. Atrave, Varras is pictured Amendment Action #372 Contracted Employers hereby regularly as defined herein for two and vacation," Varras added. "In with the ship's electrician, Sandie Cerillo (center) and Alverto (2) consecutive years." Whereas, Action No. 372 ter­ take the following action: this case, we had a captain who Moreno, the chief engineer. SAB issues Modiiicaiion to Rules m--- ' 'v- �JULY 1994 SEAFARERSLUG sirar» Lundeberg School Supplement 11 By November 14, 1994, Seafarers who handle refrigerants must be EPA-certified. This four-page section provides information on EPA testing, course dates and sites. •• Lundebera School Announces 33 Refrigeration Technician Courses To Be Held at Twenty U.S. Sites ^ i" i ECAUSE all Seafarers who handle refrigerants must be certified to do so by the U.8. government by November 14, the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education and its Lun­ deberg School last month announced the nationwide schedule for its new En­ vironmental Protection Agency (EPA)-approved Refrigeration Technician two-day course. Passing this course will result in Seafarers ob­ taining the required EPA certification. The first classes are scheduled for July 5-6 and July 7-8 at the SlU hall in Baltimore. Nineteen other ports also will host two of the two-day classes, which are slated to end on December 7 in St. Louis. For a complete schedule, see page 14. . Seafarers Must Be Certified tWMWY LONDCTTOG. .* Or DIG Box 75 PineiM QMEDs, Electricians, Refrigeration Engineers, Junior Engineers and anyone else involved in the repair and senricing of refrigeration equipment and air conditioning systems must pass an EPA-approved Refrigeration Technician course by Novem­ ber 14, according to regulations issued by the EPA in the May 1993 Federal Register. The Lundeberg School set up its course and port-to-port schedule to assist Seafarers in eaming this certification. In addition, the class is a mandatory segment of engine department upgrading courses at the school in Piney Point, Md. Dozens of Seafarers already have passed the course at the Lundeberg School. After November 14, according to a recent action by the Seafarers Appeals Board, SlU members will not be able to ship under any of the aforementioned ratings without proof of EPA certification. (An exten­ sion will be granted to crewmembers who already are on a ship as of November 14 and who do not have certification. However, those members will need the certification prior to sailing again.) How to Sign Up Seafarers who plan to take the Refrigeration Technician course at an SlU hall should select the course date and location that fits their schedule, then notify the port agent there at least 10 days prior to the start of the course. For example, a Seafarer who wants to attend the August 23-24 course at the New Orleans hall would contact the New Orleans port agent, either by telephone, fax or mail service. Course Information The two-day course covers relevant topics in­ cluding, but not limited to: terminology; refrigerants and compressor lubricating oils; refrigerant handling safety; environmental impact of refrigerants; refrigeration theory and the use of pres­ sure/temperature charts; general provisions of the law; general servicing considerations; servicing small appliances; servicing low- and high-pressure appliances; and conversion of CFC equipment. The schedule for the first day is 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., including a lunch break. The second day's sch^ule is 8 a.m. until 2 p.m. (including a lunch break), followed by a written test from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. (See page 13 for the types of questions one might expect on the exam.) Test results will be mailed to members no later than 30 days after the test date. Those who pass the course will receive an EPA certification card, which has no expiration. . •..ii-. 't.p.;.; •M,r\ ... The course and testing is free to SlU members. However, Seafarers are responsible for their own transportation, lodging and meals, other than the lunches that will be served during the break. Preparing for the Course In addition, the Lundeberg School strongly en­ courages members to purchase in advance a book titled "Refrigerants and the Environment," which is available through the school. Although this is not a requirement, the Lundeberg School instructors have found that it is a valuable study aid (see separate story on page 12) and that thoroughly reviewing it before taking the course increases a student's ability to pass the certification exam. Categories of Certification The EPA has established the following categories of technician certification: Type I, for ser­ vicing small appliances (such as pantry refrigerators and watercoolers); Type II, forservicing ordisposing of appliances that use high-pressure refrigerants (for example, a ship's stores refrigeration plant); Type III, for servicing or disposing of appliances that use low-pressure refrigerants (such as the centrifugal air conditioning plants found on passenger ships); and Universal, for servicing all types of equipment. Different tests will be available to SlU members depending upon which level of technician certifica­ tion they seek, and also with consideration of their previous refrigerant recovery training. Lundeberg School instructors anticipate that most SlU mem­ bers who need to be certified to work aboard SIUcontracted ships will test for Type I or Type II certification. However, Seafarers working on pas­ senger vessels will need to obtain the Universal certification. In addition, the SlU encourages all QMEDs to test for the Universal certification. Anyone who fails the test may re-take it at any of the subsequent course sites, and there is no limit to the number of times one may re-take the exam. First Class Successful Seafarers who took the course last month at the Paul Hall Center said they found it very challenging. "It was more difficult than I expected, and a lot of the material we covered was new—atomic structure of chloroflourocarbons, for example," said QMED Gary Frazier, 37, who graduated from the, Lun­ deberg School in 1973. "But I prepared for the course, studied a lot, and that helped." Fellow QMED Mike Brown added that the in­ struction was excellent, but that students must be prepared to learn a lot in a relatively short amount of time. "I was surprised at the depth of the material, and I highly recommend that anyone who takes the course should buy the book ('Refrigerants and the Environment') in advance. They'll need it," said Brown, 37. Other Parts of Rule Seafarers are by no means the only individuals affected by the new EPA regulations. Besides re­ quiring that air conditioning and refrigerant tech­ nicians obtain certification through an EPA-approved testing organization, the final rule that was issued last year has four other main ele­ ments which require: that technicians servicing and disposing of air conditioning or refrigeration equip­ ment observe prescribed practices aimed at reduc­ ing emissions; that refrigerant recycling and recovery equipment, as well as refrigerant reclaimers, be certified in accordance with EPA-approved standards; that leaks of refrigerant be repaired; and that ozone-depleting refrigerant com­ pounds in appliances, machines and other goods be removed from those items prior to their disposal. -• .-'I'. 't: • �•^•;• .'.T, i' „'lf • ; I 1", - 12 :M SUFAKBRSLOG 'Get the Book,' Advise Students, Instructors "S'"'i- .¥f'-K'X- , ; f/-;• 1 X <» V:;j Environmental Troining Group Inc Refrigetonts and the Environment J' :•}''• I'. S;'- II .•.••••I"-''-' •" \ '-'l •" •vV;; • Top, the book "Refrigerants and the Envirohmenf is a useful study aid in preparing for the EPA Refrigeration Technician course. Bottom, the Lundeberg School's worktrook compiles information on all aspects of the ;test. '•W 1. Refrigennt Classification Classify the below listed carbon based refrigerants as either single com­ ponent, azeotropic or zeotropic: R-11 R-12 R-13 R-22 R-32 R-113 R-114 R-115 R-123 R-124 R-125 R-134a R-152a R-218 R-290 R-318 R-401A R-401B R-401C R-402A R-402B R-403B R-404A R-500 R-502 R-503 R-507 R-23 Lundeberg School instructors, as well as Seafarers who already have taken the EPA Refrigeration Tech­ nician course, offered, some advice recently to those who plan to take the class during the upcoming months. "Take the course seriously and buy the book 'Refrigerants and the Environment' in advance," said QMED Gary Frazler. "I recommend to anybody that they buy the book in advance and study it as much as possible, because there's a lot of material to be covered." Instructor J.C. Wiegman noted that, among the 20-plus upgraders who took the course last month at the Paul Hall Center, The people who bought the book passed the test. There's a direct correlation." Purchase of the book is not man­ datory, "but I can't emphasize enough how important it is," said Instructor Eric Malzkuhn. "Because of time constraints, any preparation that the student can make in ad­ vance of taking the course, should be done. It will be a great benefit to them if they have the training material in advance." Seafarers who want to purchase the book in advance should indicate this to the port agent whom they contact when signing up for the class. They should then send a check for $25, made payable to the Paul Hall Center, to: EPA Refrigeration Tech. Course, P.O. BoxTS^Piney Point, MD 20674, Attn: J.C. Wiegman. The book then will be sent by standard mail to individuals who ordered it. Additionally, ail Seafarers who take the course will receive, at no cost, a workbook which has been compiled by Lundeberg School in­ structors. The U.S. govemment mandate for use called, protects the earth from solar of refrigerant recovery systems (which in ultraviolet radiation. Dozens of studies turn led to the need for refrigeration tech­ from the past seven years, conducted in nicians to be EPA-certified) stems from more than 20 nations, indicate that sig­ the theory of stratospheric ozone deple­ nificant depletion of ozone in the upper tion. atmosphere may lead to long-term in­ Most of the earth's ozone is in a natural creases in skin cancer and cataracts, as layer located many miles above ground- well as damage to the human immune level. Ozone is a gas which begins to form system. Other risks include crop damage when oxygen molecules absorb part of the and harm to aquatic organisms. sun's ultraviolet radiation, then split into Scientists from throughout the world two oxygen atoms. Those atoms in tum agree that chlorine from synthetic chemi­ join with other oxygen molecules to form cals called chloroflourocarbons (CFCs) ozone. and bromine from chemicals called halons The ozone layer, as it is commonly cause a reduction in stratospheric ozone. • t;,- v' 2. Compressor Lubricating Oil Compatibiiity What is meant by the term hygroscopicity as applied to compressor lubricat­ ing oils? 3. Pressure Temperature Relationship If the measured temperature of a refrigerant is above the saturation temperature corresponding to the existing measured pressure, the refrigerant is known to be: Test Your^no^>®'l9® of Refrigeration •rfed on the next page are' img Technician Cer'"tVpSw School's °ReWgerant lificationvrorWwokex^^ are printed P'®TpAt SemtionTehnlcian^^^^^^ Ozone CFCs are used as refrigerants, as agents^ in plastic foam products, as sol­ vents, as sterilizers and in aerosol applications. Halons are used as fire-extinguishing agents. Based on that assessment, the U.S. in 1987 joined with 23 other nations in signing the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer. This agreement, which has been ratified by 90 nations, aims to reduce the production arid consumption of CFCs. Since 1987 the Montreal pact has been amended to establish a time frame for en­ ding the use of all ozone-depleting substan-^ Chlorinemonoxide 7 Oione Depletion What are the human health effects associated withincreased exposure to ultraviolet-B? ces. CFCs, for example, are to be phased out completely by January 1996. In response to the Montreal convention, the U.S. Congress adopted several amendments to the Clean Air Act in 1990 which were signed into law by President Bush. One amendment addressed stratospheric ozone protection and detailed steps the U.S. would take to phase out the use of CFCs, among other substances. The U.S. govemmenfs Environmental Protection Agency was charged with irnplementing the intent of the 1990 Clean Air Act amendments. 8. Gtobai Warming What chemical process contributes most to global warming? 9. Use of Pressure Temperature Charts Using a P/T Chart, answer the following question: Suppose the measured liquid line pressure is 210 psig for a commercial split air conditioning unit using R-22 refrigerant. If the liquid line temperature is 93 degrees F., what is the calculated liquid line subcooling? 10. EPA Regulated and Unregulated Substances What is the technical definition of an EPA Class 1 substance? 11. Refrigerant Phaseout Class 1 Refrigerants (single component CFCs and CFC based azeotropes) have an important phaseout date. The production phaseout date for new Class 1 refrigerant is: 12. J^piiances What is the technical definition of a high pressure appliance? .A f• 13. Recovery Evacuation Level Exceptions Recovery to required evacuation levels is mandated for major repairs. List the four (4) major repairs as defined by the EPA. 14. Mandatory Leak Ftopair Units that are subject to mandatory leak repair are those normally containing a total refrigerant charge weight of at least how many pounds? 15. Record Keeping Requirements Where must a copy of the technician's certification be kept on file? 16. Service Manifold andHoses What is a typical working pressure for standard charging hoses? • 17. Refrigerant Containers In what type of container is refrigerant most commonly sold to the service technician industry? •I:' -'i'l' 18. LeakDetection What are the two (2) approved inert gases that can be used for inert gas pressurization? V - :f| 19. Recovery Devices When using active, self-contained recovery devices, in general, what are the two (2) possible recovery modes? . I j| i| 20. Refrigerant Recovery What is one disadvantage to liquid recovery? -••4' r - ••fl; l|:l; 21. Evacuation What type of vacuum pump is required for "deep" vacuum service? • 'I'. 22. Small Appliances What criteria must an appliance meet in order to be considered a small appliance? :i 23. High Pressure Appliances When recovering liquid refrigerant from a unit with an access point involving a long vertical riser, would it be preferabie to recover from the Ijottom or the top of the riser? If; Ife-^i,. zl:' 24. Very High Pressure Appliances What are the very high pressure appliance refrigerants? 25. Low Pressure Af^liances What two methods may be used to recover refrigerant from a centrifugal chiller as a liquid? jetaet^jozito J O O r Oxygen 1. The free chlorine atom collides with an ozone molecule In the stratosphere. 4. Fractional and Temperature Glide The location of a leak determines whether or not fractionation will occur. Indicate whether or not (yes or no) fractionation will occur for the following leak locations: Suction line: Condenser: Compressor: Liquid line: Discharge line: Evaporator: 6. Refrigerant Handling Safety Under what condition may refrigeration compressor oil become acidic? ©=® Chlorine If the measured temperature of a refrigerant is below the saturation temperature corresponding to the existing measured pressure, the refrigerant is known to be: 5. ASHRAE Refrigerant Safety aassitication Classify the following refrigerants according to the ASHRAE safety code: R-11 R-12 R-13 R-22 R-113 R-114 R.123 R-134a R-500 R.502 R-503 R-290 How Ozone is Destroyed While the process of ozone depletion is very complex and is controlled by a number of factors, a simple four-step model describes the basic process of gas phase ozone depletion by chlorine. 13 Sample Questions from Tech. Certification Workbook Why All the Fuss About Refrigerants? 'V ;.. K SEAFARHISLOS JULY 1994 :' 2. Upon collision, one of the three oxygen atoms separates to bond with the chlorine, forming a chlorine monoxide molecule (CLO). ©=© ©= Chlorinemonoxide 3. A free oxygen atom collides with the CLO molecule. Chlorine acts as a catalyst in each of the processes. It does not undergo any change, nior is it consumed by the various chemical reactions described above. The same chlorine atom is capable of going on to destroy one-hundred thousand ozone moiecules. Chlorine atoms are thought to have a minimum stratospheric life expectancy of six years. (ciA (oy==(^ Chlorine Oxygen , The collision reaction brews xrw bond between the chlorine atorn and the oxygen atom wm^ separates to bond with the seco^ oxygen atom and molecule. This prevente thej^ oxygen atom from bonding wim w oTmolecule to form ofone ^ite liberating the chlorine atom to res­ tart the cyde. at '6 stenmssatjoBustut^ V iu0fitXs0unujuJi 9tajou(MSsajdclns'^aBm9O 'j0OUB!>upis 'l VKHmqMssaidutoo'somiOuo^uiumMoaMita^ 19 aemsomt rz powttiWiyb/ojurKX^ OS XiaMoenjodBA'AMMoajpintxi w noOpueuaBaim W senpsod^ ir OlSdOOS '91 iurnuXotduteioeoaidmmpmsodi si Mimajosqiog pt 'jaeuaouoo 'josgwdmco -ei I eouBHddBXBwaeiou^puesi^pM Og+iMOMtaqiufodeugMBtaimsfUUsBpiuzssmOJOtsnioBuiumuooeoueK^ TSI gssi'L^Mmar 'It oez-asv . ezi-y—ta it'ii—tv 5 ^5 so/, •ON'SPA'ON'ON'ON -p ¥ : ^ ^ poioooqna'peiBOiftodns le • -Z los-ti'eos-ti'zoS'd'oos-N—sadojsooz^f If *gSOP-H 'VZOP-U 'OtOP-ti 'giOP-y "VtOPdJ — oodcaioez azst-y'Bpet-y'oss-y'9iz-y'szt-y'pzt-u 'tt-y—ruouoduiooefims 't ^ S II TAaMIQMSNV •, Z'lL'; �rsE:^ mi: «i'tr:n-'" 51 i %- •-•kiV-' 14 JULY 1994 SEAFARERS LOG -.JC. :&>: " ""v^, : LUNDEBERG SCHOOL •1^:, .i'y'' "'•"i;-,.' ;"•''''5 lis*'';':" ''"•H'-- vr'-:. :. ""• !£-••• EPA REFRIGERATIOIM TECHNICIAN 1994 COURSE .•-•-• SCHEDULE I COURSE OUTLINE Two-Day Course Preparation and Testing (8 a.m. - 4 p.m.) DAY ONE DATE PHONE/FAX LOCATION 1. Certification Process 2. Refrigerants and Compressor Lubricating Oils 3. Refrigerant/Oil Handling Safety Tuesday-Wednesday Thursday-Friday July 5-6 July 7-8 Baltimore, Md. SIU Hall 1216 E. Baltimore St. Baltimore, MD 21202 (410)327-4900 FAX (410) 522-2867 Monday-Tuesday Wednesday-Thursday July 11-12 July 13-14 Philadelphia, Pa. SIU Hall 2604 South 4th St. Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215)336-3818 FAX (215) 271-5127 Monday-Tuesday July 18-19 Sea-Land Bayonne, NJ (201)435-9424 FAX (201) 435-0935 Wednesday-Thursday July 20-21 Jersey City, N.J. SIU Hall 99 Montgomery St. Jersey City, NJ 07302 (201)435-9424 FAX (201) 435-0935 4. Environmental Impact of Refrigerants 5. Refrigeration Theory/Pressure Temperature Relationships ' 6. Laws and Regulations r\ • Monday-Tuesday July 25-26 Brooklyn, N.Y. SIU Hall 635 4th Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718)499-6600 FAX (718) 768-5058 Wednesday-Thursday July 27-28 New Bedford, Mass. SIU Hall 48 Union St. New Bedford, MA 02740 (508) 997-5404 FAX (508) 999-6505 Tuesday-Wednesday Thursday-Friday August 9-10 August 11-12 Jacksonville, Fla. SIU Hall 3315 Liberty St. Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 FAX (904) 355-4347 Tuesday-Wednesday Thursday-Friday August 16-17 August 18-19 Mobile, Ala. SIU Hall 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy. Mobile, AL 36605 (205)478-0916 FAX (205) 478-4658 Tuesday-Wednesday Thursday-Friday August 23-24 August 25-26 New Orleans, La. SIU Hall 630 Jackson Ave. New Orleans, LA 70130 (504)529-7546 FAX (504) 561-0681 Monday-Tuesday Wednesday-Thursday August 29-30 Aug. 31 - Sept. 1 Houston, Tex. SIU Hall 1221 Fiercest. Houston, TX 77002 (713)659-5152 FAX (713) 650-8629 Tuesday-Wednesday Thursday-Friday September 13-14 September 15-16 Norfolk, Va. SIU Hall 115 Third St. Norfolk, VA 23510 (804)622-1892 FAX (804) 640-0480 Tuesday-Wednesday Thursday-Friday September 27-28 September 29-30 Wilmington, Calif. SIU Hall 510 N. Broad Ave. Wilmington, CA 90744 (310)549-4000 FAX (310) 549-8931 Tuesday-Wednesday Thursday-Friday October 4-5 October 6-7 (415)543-5855 FAX (415) 243-9926 2. Contact the port agent at the corresponding SIU union hall by telephone, fax or mail to resenre your space. San Francisco, Calif. SIU Hall 350 Fremont St. San Francisco, CA 94105 Tuesday-Wednesday Thursday-Friday October 11-12 October 13-14 Seattle, Wash. SIU Hall 2505 First Ave. Seattle, WA 98121 (206)441-1960 FAX (206) 728-2272 3. Advise the port agent no later than 10 days prior to the start of the course you want to attend. Wednesday-Thursday Friday-Saturday October 19-20 October 21-22 Honolulu, Hawaii SIU Hall 606 Kalihi St. Honolulu, HI 96819 (808)845-5222 FAX (808) 841-1191 Tuesday-Wednesday Thursday-Friday November 8-9 November 10-11 Port Everglades, Fla. SIU Hall (305)921-5661 2 West Dixie Highway FAX (305) 923-8495 Dania, FL 33004 Wednesday-Thursday Friday-Saturday November 16-17 November 18-19 San Juan, P.R. SIU Hall 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave. Stop 16Vfe Santurce, PR 00907 (809)721-4033 FAX (809) 725-8018 Tuesday-Wednesday November 29-30 Algonac, Mich. SIU Hall 520 St. Clair River Dr. Algonac, Ml 48001 (810)794-4988 FAX (810) 794-0909 Thursday-Friday December 1-2 Duluth, Minn. SIU Hall 705 Medical Arts. BIdg. Duluth, MN 55802 (218)722-4110 FAX (218) 722-8216 Tuesday-Wednesday December 6-7 St. Louis, Mo. SIU Hall 4581 Gravois Ave. St. Louis, MO 63116 (314)752-6500 FAX (314) 832-0283 DAYTWO :-.'[ .••^' "X Preparation 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.. Testing 2 p.m.- 4 p.m. • -• • 1. Refrigeration Servicing 2: Servicing Small Appliances ill.;: 3. Sen/icing High-Pressure Appliances •Vi '-' 4. Servicing Low-Pressure Appliances 5. Conversion of CFC Equipment 6. Demonstration of Approved Service Procedures 7. EPA Certification Test ||,.ili|f:; HOW TO REGISTER FOR THE COURSE 1. Pick a date. iv; ••: • ' • r." 4. Indicate whether or not you wish to purchase the book "Refrigerants and the Environmenf (a manual which is recommended as course prepara­ tion). The cost of the study aid is $25.00. m'' -1/ • i-L:. '•• -: irf-i • For more information, contact your port agent or the Lundeberg School vocational education department at (301) 904-0010; ex­ tension 422. 1 J"-"- �•>5l-y.3.<;,:,«t( •>^>'n£l,'^>jti4^- - 5 • :'W * SEAFABBIS LOB JULY 1994 Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea MAY 16 — JUNE 15,1994 •TOTAL REGISTERED Oass A Class B Class! TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Oass A Class B Class C August ASefaember 1994 Membprship Meetings Deep Sea, Lalres, Inland Waters 32 3 3 9 Norfolk 12 Mobile New Orleans 26 changed by Labor Day holiday 30 24 25 15 4 36 26 •:rrs': 4 \^linington 6 21 Seattle 1 5 Puerto Rico 6 10 Honolulu ''-'12: Houston 1 SL Louis • 3-:: •:.2 • ••• 0 Piney Point '•r-i''":. 0 1 0 Algonac 53 290 251 Totals Port New York 0 2 Philadelphia . 8 1 '^Baltimore 4 13 8 Norfolk 1 10 13 Mobile 1 12 19 New Orleans 12'.rrg: 2 Jacksonville ••1 15 San Francisco• 18 4 Wilmington T'M mi1 12 13 Seattle 0 3 Puerto Rico 10 8 9 Honolulu 1 1 41 ••'Z0J0 ' C::-L Houston 0 1 1 St. Louis 1 5 Piney Point 0 2 0 Algonac 30 163 148 Totals Port New York Philadelphia Baltimore Norfolk Mobile New Orleans Jacksonville 13 San Francisco 38 ^Immgt^ Seattle Puerto Rico Honolulu Houston St. Louis Piney Point Algonac Totals Port New York Philadelphia Paltimore Norfolk Mobile New Orleans Jacksonville San Francisco 15 Wilmington 6 Seattle Puerto Rico Honolulu Houston St. Louis Piney Point Algonac Totals ENGINE DEPARTMENT 3 0 2 8 1 3 m-A '• • r.- New York Tuesday: August 9, September 6 Philadelphia Wednesday: August lO.September 7 Baltimore. Thursday: August 11, September 8 Norfedk TTiursday: August 1L September 8 Jacksonville iMm Thursday: August 11, September 8 Algoimc Friday: August 12, September 9 Houston Monday: August 15, September 12 NewOrlemis Tuesday: August 16, September 13 ..Mobile' Wednesday: August 17, September 14 SanFrancisco Thursday: August 18, September 15 Wilmington Tuesday: August 23*, Monday, Septem6erl9 6 0 1 4 0 5 2 36 9 - 9 31 17 changed by Paul Hall Birthday holiday rC 1 4 0 12 6 0 0 0 45 • • •V- •,--.5-->9:5>4.; STEWARD DEPARTMENT 1638 812 207 429 492 81 217 L072 1.400 426 SRegistered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. . ^ t^foi niimkor last monA. month. number nf of mpn men registered registered at a. the .he Dort pod at a. the .he end of las. a '• Piney Point Monday: August 8; Tuesday, September 6* ••REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B OassC DECK DEPARTMENT Port few York idelphia ,-' • ' - Trip RdieCs 15 , < - Seattle Friday: August 26, September 23 San Juan Thursday: August 11, September 8 St. Louis Friday: August 19, September 16 Honolulu ''' Friday: August 19, September 16 Duluth Wednesday: August 17, September 14 JereeyCity Wednesday: August 24, September 21 New Bedford Tuesday: August 23, September 20 f . - Each ptefVoiMdng starts at 10:30 ajn. •r Personals • -J ROBERT BRIGHT and ALLEN NELSON Earl Thomas is trying to locate you. Please write him at 730 East 166th Street, #8H, Bronx, N.Y. 10456. ' ROBERT BYRON BYRNE Please get in touch with your sister, Madeline Al-Molky, at 24 Lome Avenue, Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, Canada B2Y 3E5. ANDREW KAMEDRA (or KAMIDRA) Anyone knowing the whereabouts of Andrew Kamedra (or Kamidra) is asked to contact his niece, Susan Berosh, at 630 E. Jensen #127, Mesa, Ariz. 85203. 'A • • -f FREDERICK SANDERSON Please write your cousin, Eleanor Manly Stinson, at 729 Dogtown Road, Clarksburg, Ohio 43115; or telephone (902) 466-3343. ROBERT DANIEL SMITH Please contact your daughter. Sonny Caroline, at P.O. Box 95, Augres, Mich. 48703; or call (517) 876-2644. EDWARD THOMASIAN Please contact your son, Edward Burdat, at (907) 784-3316. It's important. SYLVESTER WOODS Please contact Andralla Woods. I, ' .,• > "-i, . J^^rFrom Mayl6 to June IS, 1994, a total of 217 trip relief Jol^ere dapped. Sinee the tnp rehef pro^ began on April 1,1982, a total of21,121 jobs have been shipped. •' -j'y i' -.t' \ • SfeSSSS , I.' jV �• i.- JULY 1994 16 SEAFARERS LOG Seafarers International Union Directory Si r-^ti- ' •• M"r Port Algonac Port ... 22,. DECK DEPARTMENT 0 41 1 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 19 1 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 4 0 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 51 4 ^gpnac Port Alj^riac Port Algonac •o 0 11 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class CL Class L QassNP 3 o -•iz •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups QassCL Class L Class NP © ^ /f HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr. Algonac, MI 48001 (313)794-4988 BALTIMORE 1216 E. Baltimore St. Baltimore, MD 21202 (410) 327-4900 DULUTH 705 Medical Arts Building Duluth,MN 55802 (218)722-4110 HONOLULU 606KalihiSt. Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St. Houston, TX 77002 (713)659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St. Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904)353-0987 JERSEY CITY 99 Montgomery St. Jersw City, NJ 07302 (201)435-9424 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy. Mobile, AL 36605 (205)478-0916 NEW BEDFORD 48 Union St New Bedford, MA 02740 (508)997-5404 NEW ORLEANS 630 Jackson Ave. New Orleans, LA 70130 (504) 529-7546 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718)499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St. Norfolk, VA 23510 (804) 622-1892 PHILADELPHIA OaOd <5 4 Sf PhUadelphia,PA 19148 (215)336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75 Kney Point MD 20674 (301)994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 2 West Dixie Highway Dania, FL 33004 (305) 921-5661 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St San Francisco, CA 94105 (415)543-5855 Govenunent Services Division (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave. Stop 16Vi Santurce, PR 00907 (809) 721-4033 SEATTLE 2505 First Ave. SeatUe, WA 98121 (206)441-1960 ST. LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave. St. Louis, MO 63116 (314)752-6500 WILMINGTON 5ION. Broad Ave. Wilmington, CA 90744 (310)549-4000 MAY 16 — JUNE 15,1994 CI^Company/Lakes L—Lakes NP—Non Priority o Michael Sacco President John Fay Secretary-Treasurer Joseph Sacco Executive Vice President Augustin Tellez Vice President Collective Bargaining George McCarto^ Vice President West Coast Rojf A. "Buck" Mercer Vice President Government Services JackCaffey Vice President Atlantic Coast Byron KeBey Vice President nt Lakes and Inland Inla Waters DeanCorg^ Vice President (Siu Coast Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes ••REGISTERED ON BEACH MD Class CL Class L Class NP L 0 44 0 TAfM. IM i-h 8 27 0 103 0 0 64 2 58 Totals All Departments 0 46 * 'Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. ** "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. 15 Dispatchers' Report for Iniaiici Waters MAY 16 — JUNE 15,1994 •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Region Atlantic Gulf Coast . O V TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C DECK DEPARTMENT 3 0" '^ U 0 d U,^. 0 U ••REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 25 ZJ ,V ' 0 o 2 Z 23 0 54 77 West Coast Tofals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland^'l^^^ei^ West Coast Totals Region ' 1 n 1 7 - n • % 0 0 0 9 2 0 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 0 Gulf Cbast Lakes & Inland Wah West Coast Totals 0 1 :Z0 0 0 0 1 2 15 i. 1 0 2 0 7 0 8 1 1 7 15 15 35 10 99 28 135 141 Totals All Departments 125 * "Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. ** "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. Reminder: Z~Cards Must Be Reneuifed All Seafarers are reminded that their z-cards have to be updated by 1998. The Coast Guard has outlined a plan, based on the issuance date of the documents obtained before 1991. The date of issuance is located on the back of the z-card to the right of the thumb prints. (Since 1991, z-cards have been issued with expiration dates posted on both the front and back of the docu­ ments.) The following chart shows the year that merchant mariner's documents, in order to remain active, must be renewed based on issuance dates. The exact date of expiration matches the month and day of issuance. Renewal Year 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 Issuance Year 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1969 1970 1971 1972 1973 1964 1965 1966 1967 1968 1959 1960 1961 1962 1963 1954 1955 1956 1957 1958 1949 1950 1951 1952 1953 1944 1945 1946 1947 1948 1939 1940 1941 1942 1943 1937 1938 Source: Federal Register, September 16,1993 -J iiifirif I-1 : I T �TO JULY1994 rW^he growing ranks of SIU A pensioners has been in­ crease by 48 Seafarers who have ended their careers as professional mariners. Brother Robert Schwarz has ended S1 years at sea, the longest of all Seafarers who this month were announced by the Seafarers Pen­ sion Plan as retiring. He joined the union in 1943 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Of those union brothers sign­ ing off this month, 32 sailed in the deep sea division, 12 sailed in the inland division, three' sailed on the Great Lakes and one sailed in the Atlantic Fisherman's division. Of the retiring Seafarers, 23 served in the U.S. military: 14 in the Army and nine in the Navy. Six of those beginning their shoreside years attended recertification courses at the Lundeberg School. Brothers John Moss, William Reeves and Schwarz completed the bosun recertiflcation program in 1974. Brother Ceasar Blanco graduated from the steward recertifrcation program in 1982 while Brothers Courtney Rooks and Floyd King flnished the program in 1981 and 1986, respectively On this page and the next, the LOG presents brief biographical accounts and the seagoing ac­ tivities of this month's pen­ sioners. SEAFARBtS LOG" 17 To Our New Pensioners ... Thanks for a Job Well Done Each month in the Seafarers LOG, the names of SIU members who recently have become pensioners appear with a brief biographical sketch. These men and women have served the maritime industry well, and the SIU and all their union brothers and sisters wish them happiness and health in the days ahead. CEASAR BLANCO, 68, joined the SIU in 1967 in the port of San Francis­ co. Bom in the Philip­ pines, he com­ pleted the steward recertification program at Piney Point in 1982. Brother Blanco served in the U.S. Navy from 1945 to 1950. He calls San Francisco home. FRED HEAD, 65, joined the union in 1970 in the port of New York. An Alabama native, he sailed in the engine department. Brother Head upgraded at the Paul Hall Center frequently. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1947 to 1967. Brother Head resides in Scotlaiid, Conn. JACKMARCARIO,65, joined the Seafarers in 1978 in the port of New York. A Brooklyn, N.Y. native. he sailed in the engine department. Brother Marcario upgraded at the Lundeberg School frequently. He served in the U.S. Navy. Brother Marcario retired to Mount Holly, NJ. EARL BRANNAN, WILLIAM LARRY MCLAREN, HINES,56, 72, joined the 65, joined the joined the SlUin 1962 union in 1959 in Seafarers in his native in the port of 1969 in his na­ New York. A Galveston, tive Seattle. Jessup, Ga. Texas. During Brother Hines native, he the 1960s, sailed in the engine depart­ sailed in the Brother Mc­ Laren worked as a dockworker for ment. He upgraded frequently at deck department. Brother Brannan Galveston Wharfs. He still calls served in the U.S. Army from 1951 Piney Point. Brother Hines served Galveston home. to 1953. He resides in ^chland. in the U.S. Navy from 1955 to 1959. He retired to Issaquah, Wash. Wash. LUIS MORENO, JORGE COTO, 65, joined the HALSTEAD DEEP SEA 67, joined the Seafarers in 1962 in the port of JACKSON, union in 1962 New Orleans. Bom in Costa Rica, 62, joined the ROBERT in the port of he sailed in the deck department. SIU in 1967 ADAMS, 69, New Orleans. Brother Coto upgraded at the Paul in the port of joined the Bom in Hall Center frequently. He retired Seattle. Bom Seafarers in Ecuador, he in the British to Arabi, La. 1980 in the sailed in the West Indies, port of steward department. Brother he sailed in ROBERT Tampa, Fla. Moreno lives in Houston. the deck department. Brother Jack­ DAWSON, Bom in son calls Nederland, Texas home. 68, joined the Cleveland, he JOHN MOSS, 66, joined the SIU in 1969 sailed in the deck department. Seafarers in 19^ in the port of New in the port of Brother Adams upgraded frequent­ DONALD Orleans. A native of Wisconsin, he Seattle. A ly at the Lundeberg School. He KEITH, 65, completed the bosun recertification Califomia na­ served in the U.S. Army from 1957 joined the program at Piney Point in 1974. tive, he sailed to 1958. Brother Adams retired to union in 1966 Brother Moss served in the U.S. in the deck Augusta, Ga. in his native Army from 1945 to 1947. He resides department. Brother Dawson New York. in New Orieans. upgraded at the Lundeberg School Brother Keith JAMES in 1979. He was a member of the sailed in the ALLEN, 62, U.S. Navy from 1943 to 1946. He RAMDHANI steward joined the SIU calls Seattle home. NANDKEdepartment. He upgraded at the in 1952 in the SHWAR,64, Lundeberg School in 1981. Brother port of joined the DIMITRIOS DESPOTIDIS, 65, Keith was a member of the U.S. Mobile, Ala. SIU in 1951 joined the union in 1969 in the port Navy from 1945 to 1948. He still A North in the port of of New York. Bom in Greece, he calls New York home. Carolina na­ New York. sailed in the deck department. tive, he sailed Bom in Brother Despotidis upgraded at in the deck department. Brother FLOYD British Piney Point in 1975. He resides in Allen served in the U.S. Army KING, 76, Guiana, he sailed in the engine Astoria, N.Y. from 1948 to 1952. He resides in joined the department. Brother Nandkeshwar Baton Rouge, La. Seafarers in calls Virginia Beach, Va. home. WILLIAM 1959 in the EHRET,62, port of RAFAEL THURMON joined the Sea­ Portland, Ore. QUINONEZ, BARNES, farers in 1967 Bom in 66, joined the 59, joined the in the port of Marion, La., union in 1962 union in 1968 San Francis­ he completed the steward recer­ in the port of co. A native tiflcation program at Piney Poiiit in in the port of Norfolk, Va. of Everette, 1986. He retired to Compton, Calif. New York. A native of Puer­ Wash., he Bom in to Rico, he Rocky sailed in the engine department. sailed in the Brother Ehret upgraded at the Lun­ FRED Mount, N.C., engine department. Brother LINDSEY, deberg School frequently. He he sailed in the deck department. 55, joined the Quinonez retired to Orlando, Fla. served in the U.S. Navy from 1952 to Brother Bames was a member of SIU in 1960 1956. Brother Ehret lives in Seattle. the U.S. Army from 1957 to 1965. in the port of He calls Portsmouth, Va. home. VICTOR Mobile, Ala. JOHN EL­ PRADO,65, An Alabama LIOTT, 67, joined the JULIO BAnative, he joined the Seafarers in QUERIZO, sailed in the SIU in 1945 1961 in the 65, joined the steward department. Brother in the port of port of New Seafarers in Lindsey calls Mobile home. Philadelphia. York. Bom in 1967 in the Bom in Costa Rica, port of New Brooklyn, he sailed in JORGE LIZANA, 64. joined the Orleans, La. N.Y.,he the deck department. Brother Prado union in 1969 in the port of New A native of sailed in the deck department. upgraded frequently at the Paul Orleans. Bom in Costa Rica, he Ecuador, he Brother Elliott served in the U.S. Hall Center. He served in the U.S. sailed in the engine department. sailed in the engine department. Army from 1953 to 1955. He still Army from 1957 to 1960. He will Brother Lizana resides in Metairie, Brother Baquerizo retired to New calls Brooklyn home. be retiring to Costa Rica. La. Orleans. ; • WILLIAM REEVES, 62, joined the SIU in 1959 in the port of Mobile, Ala. An Alabama native, he completed the bosun recertification program at Piney Point in 1974. Brother Reeves served in the U.S. Army from 1953 to 1955. He resides in Mobile. ADOLPH RODRI­ GUEZ, 65, joined the union in 1952 in the port of Houston. A Texas native, he sailed in the engine department. Brother Rodriguez lives in Texas City, Texas, t• COURTNEY ROOKS, 69, joined the Seafarers in 1955 in the port of New York. Bom in the British West Indies, he completed the steward recertification program at the Lundeberg School in 1981. Brother Rooks calls New Orleans home. ROBERT SCHWARZ, 67, joined the SIU in 1943 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Brother Schwarz's first ship was the John F. Whitten. A Mobile County, Ala. na­ tive, he completed the bosun recer­ tification program at Piney Point in 1974. Brother Schwarz last sailed aboard the LNG Leo. He retired to Citronelle, Ala. •iT*- : • I'-; • /- JOHN SHAW, 72, joined the union in 1946 in the port of New York. The Texas na­ tive sailed in the steward department. Brother Shaw resides in Philadelphia. JAMES STRAIN, 65, joined the Seafarers in 1967 in the port of New York. Bom in Texas, he sailed in the deck department. Brother Strain was a member of the U.S. Navy from 1948 to 1952. He lives in Pottsboro, Texas. JOSE VIOLANGO,71, joined the SIU in 1974 in the port of Seattle. A Philippines native, he sailed in the deck department. Brother Violango calls Seattle home. • i'- •" • I" •• •i •• •;";7 •' ' ••• Continued on page 18 • ' / ' • •' vL I i i y'l < ' v ' '• y;.. • �X 18 jm.ri994 SEAFAmRSLOG Pensioners Continuedfrom page 17 INLAND RICHARD TANNER, 71, joined the Seafarers in 1973 in the port of Jack­ sonville, Fla. Bom in Mas­ sachusetts, he sailed in the deck department. Boat man Tanner was honored in 1992 for the rescue of a bumed mariner who had jumped into Tampa Bay after his own tug exploded. Tanner was sailing aboard the Ocean Star when the rescue occurred. Boatman Tanner calls Tampa, Ra. home. GERALD ANSELL, 62, joined the union in 1969 in the port of Norfolk, Va. A native of Knotts Island, N.C., he sailed in the deck depahment. Boatnian Ansell upgraded at the Lunde- FREDERICK TAYLOR, 39, berg School in 1973. He served in joined the SIU in 1975 in the port the U.S. Coast Guard from 1949 to of Norfolk, Va. A native of Wil1954. Brother Ansell retired to liamston, N.C., he sailed in the deck department. Boatman Taylor Chesapeake, Va. retired to Suffolk, Va. MARIO GRIMALDI, 65, Joined the SIU in 1983 in the port of New York. A native of Italy, he sailed in the deck depart­ ment. Boatman Grimaldi served in the Italian military from 1950 to 1951. He resides in the Bronx, N.Y. JULIO MACIA,66, joined the SIU in 1979 in the port of Baltimore. Bom in Ar­ gentina, he sailed in the engine department. Boatman Macia upgraded at Piney Point in 1979. He lives in Ft. Washington, Md. DUANE MADDEN, 63, joined the union in 1970 in the port of Philadelphia. A native of Orbisonia, Pa., he sailed in the engine department. Boatman Madden was a member of the U.S. Navy from 1949 to 1953. He retired to Titusville, Fla. LAODIS PRIMEAUX, 64, joined the SIU in 1964 in the port of Port Arthur, Texas. A Louisiana na­ tive, he sailed in the deck department. Boatman Primeaux served in the U.S. Army from 1953 to 1955. He resides in Kaplan, La. ELTON MERRITT, 62, joined the Seafarers in 1979 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Bom in Snowtdll, Md., he sailed in the engine depart­ ment. Boatman Merritt served in the U.S. Army in 1948. He calls Cape Charles, Va. home. RONALD SHAW, 66, joined the union in 1970 in the port of New York. A native of New Jersey, he sailed in the steward department. Boatman Shaw upgraded at Piney Point in. 1979. He served in the U.S. Army from 1945 to 1946 and the U.S. Navy from 1960 to 1963. Boatman Shaw lives'in Ocala, Fla. JACK TILLETT, 62, joined the union in 1953 in the port of New York. Bom in North Carolina, he sailed in the engine department. Boatman Tillett resides in Chesapeake, Va. IRVING WALDEN, 63, joined the Seafarers in 1972 in the port of Nor­ folk, Va. A Mathews County, Va. native, he sailed in the deck depart­ ment. Boatman Walden served in the U.S. Army from 1952 to 1954. [ie lives in Mathews, Va. JESSE WATSON SR., 71, joined the SIU in 1968 in the port of Philadelphia. Bom in Berlin, N.J., he sailed in the deck department. Boatman Watson served in the U.S. Army from 1942 to 1946. He retired to National Park, N.J. GREAT LAKES NASER ALGAHMI,62, joined the union in 1966 in the port of Toledo, Ohio. A native of Yemen, he sailed in the engine department. Brother Algahmi resides in Dearbom, Mich. JACK BEN­ NETT, 62, joined the Seafarers in 1960 in the port of Detroit. Bom in Gainsville, Ga., he sailed in the deck department. Brother Bennett still calls Gainsville home. FRANK STIGLICH, 65, joined the SIU in Cleve­ land in 1969. Bom in Calumet, Mich., he sailed in the deck depart­ ment. Brother Stiglich served in the U.S. Army from 1963 to 1965. He resides in Calumet. Know Your Rights wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a membCT believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the neatest SIU port agent EDITORIAL POLICY—THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refiained fiom publishing any article serving the political puiposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This estab­ lished policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board Which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supply­ ing a receipt, or if a membo- is requir^ to make a payment arid is given an official receipt but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment thisshould immediately be reported to uniop headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU constitution are av^able in all union halls. All mem­ bers should obtain copies of this con­ stitution soas to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any 'ull copies of contracts as referred to constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing wifii are available to members at all times, charges, trials, etc., as well as all other either by writing directly to the union details, the membo"so affected should or to the SeafarCTS Af^als Board. immediately notify headquart^. CONTRACTS. Copies of all EQUAL RIGHTS. All members SIU contracts are available in all SIU are guaranteed equal rights in lalls. These contracts specify the employment and as members of the FINANCIAL REPORTS. The constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters Dis­ trict makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership's money and union finances. The con­ stitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants eveiy year, which is to be submitted to the mem­ bership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rankand-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommenda­ tions. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District are ad­ ministered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management repre­ sentatives and theiralternates. All ex­ penditures and disburseinents of trust funds are made only upon approval jy a majority of the trustees. All trust Fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust liinds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member's shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If memlers believe there have been viola­ tions of their shipping or seniority rights as contain^ in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return'receipt requested. The aroper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Con­ sequently, no member may be dis­ criminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied theequal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION — SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and pur­ poses including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and fur­ thering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boat­ men and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a con­ tribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the mem­ ber should notify the Seafarers Inter­ national Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribu­ tion for investigation and ap­ propriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and fur­ ther his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of ac­ cess to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The ad­ dress is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. It's Not Too Late to Plan a Summer Vacation at Piney Point The Independence Day holiday marks the midpoint of the summer season—so there is still plenty of time to plan a vacation for the entire family during the sweltering months of July and August. And the Lundeberg School is the perfect location rom which to base a summer vacation—^whether your idea of a holiday is swimming, fishing, sailing, tennis, * touring, reading or just relaxing. A vacation stay at the Lundeberg School is limited to two weeks per family. The daily cost per member is $40.40. An additional fee of $9.95 per day is charged for the Seafarer's spouse and for each child (there is no charge for children 11 or younger). This price includes comfortable accommodations, all meals and use of the school's educational and recreational facilities. Don't delay: take advantage of this unique union benefit and send the completed application form to the Seafarers Training Center, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075, or call (301) 994-0010 to make reser­ vations. SEAFARERS TRAINING CENTER . 7/94 Vacation Reservation Information Name: Social Security number: Book number Address: ATLANTIC FISHERMEN LAWRENCE SCOLA, 65, joined the Seafarers in 1961 in his native Gloucester, Mass. Brother Scola served in the U.S. Navy. He fished in the waters surrounding Gloucester for his entire Seafaring career. Brother Scola continues to call Gloucester home. Telephone number:. Number in party / ages of children, if applicable: Date of arrival: 1st choice 2nd choice 3rd choice Send this completed applicatlonto the Seafarers Training & Recreation Center, P.O. So* 75, Piney Point, MD 20674. �«ft!St^lS!»igSv'<ei^•- JULY 1994 SEAFARERS LOG 19 steward department. He reminded bers to respect those off watch by Saipan. members to return all plates, cups not slamming doors. Educational SEA-LAND CONSUMER (Seaand silverware to galley. Education­ director advised members to plan al director requested VCR in other ahead and begin thinking about ap­ Land Service), April 17—dhairman W. Mortier, Secretary D. lounges aboard ship and better plying for 1995 SlU scholarships. Dwyer, Educational Director P. selection of reading material. Deck Treasurer stated $452 in ship's Fable. Chairman encouraged mem­ The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union ship­ delegate noted crew lounge needs fund. No beefs or disputed OT bers to read Seafarers LOG for all board minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space keys and linen locker needs to be reported. Crew extended special union business. Educational direc­ kept clean. He requested weight vote of thanks to entire steward limitations, some win be omitted. tor advised members to upgrade as room for crew use and noted instal­ department for outstanding perfor­ soon as possible at Lundeberg Ships minutes first are reviewed by the union's contract department. lation of blackboard. No beefs or mance and fine food. Next port: School. Treasurer reported $30 in Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the disputed OT reported. Crewmem­ Nagoya, Japan. ship's fund. No beefs or disputed bers requested mattresses be union upon receipt of the ships minutes. The minutes are then NEDLLOYD HOLLAND (SeaOT reported. Crew extended vote replaced. forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. Land Service), April 17—Chair­ of thanks to galley gang for excel­ CHARLES L. BROWN (Tran­ man Walter Petty, Secretary F. lent meals. Next port: Oakland, soceanic Cable), April 28-^hairCostango, Educational Director D. Calif. USNS STALWART(U•S. Marine clean. No beefs or disputed OT Manthei, Deck Delegate Robert Management), January 11—Chair­ reported. Chairman reminded crew man Jeremiah Harrington, SEA-LAND DEVELOPER (SeaSecretary Grubbs, Steward Delegate Willie Osvaldo Castagnino, man Randy Livernois, Secretary to do laundry before arriving in Land Service), April 20—Chair­ Grant. Vocational director en­ John Billington, Deck Delegate port of Mogadishu. Crew requested Educational Director Ruben man D. Cella, Secretary L. Pinn, Velez, Deck Delegate Paul La couraged members to upgrade Ron Cleveland, Engine Delegate new movies. Next port: Durban, Educational Director J. Ross, Deck Torre, Engine Deck delegate Delegate Stephen skills at Piney Point. Esaias Brown, Steward Delegate South Africa. Delegate John Kelley, Engine reported disputed OT. Engine Walters, Steward Delegate Bar­ James Sivells. Crewmembers Delegate Jeffrey Murray, Steward CAPE WRATH(Amsea), March delegate reported beef. No beefs or ney Johnson. Chairman informed elected new delegates. Chairman Delegate Michael Linus. Chair­ 20—Chairman Steve Melendez, disputed OT reported by steward parts for crew dryer and ice reminded crew to upgrade skills at man discussed repair list with crew­ Secretary L. Oram, Deck Delegate machine should arrive soon. He delegate. Chairman reported Lundeberg School and pay dues. members. He reported smooth B. Brunette, Engine Delegate R. Seafarers LOGs received. Next noted ship to pay off in next port He announced Navy's recreational Oppel, Steward Delegate D. and remain on cable repair stand­ facilities are available to crewmem­ Landry. Chairman noted meeting by. He reminded crewmembers bers. Crew conunended galley held by Baltimore patrolman and every four months ship goes out on gang members Chief Steward Bil­ thank^ him for up-to-date informa­ cable training exercise. Bosun lington, Chief Cook Sievells and tion. The bosun asked contracts asked crew to clean up after them­ SA Kenny Crousel for an out­ department to clarify overtime selves in laundry, lounge and mess standing job. Next port: Panama. rates and lifeboat procedures. He areas. Treasurer stated $400 in E/lfP/f?ESr4rE(OMI), also reminded crew to use common ship's fund. No beefs or disputed February 5—Chairman Sidney courtesy in laundry rooms. OT reported. Chairman reported Wallace, Secretary R. Seaman, Secretary noted washing machine list of repairs and requests brought Educational Director Howard up at meeting will be posted. Crew needs repair. Educational director Schoenly, Deck Delegate Michael advised members to upgrade at requested new mattresses for Stein, Steward Delegate Eugene Lundeberg School. Treasurer rooms. Next port: St. Thomas, V.I. stated $205 in ship's fund. No Perez Jr. Chairman reminded EMPIRE STATE(OMl), April members to work in professional beefs or disputed OT reported. 14—Chairman Sidney Wallace, manner using teamwork. He ad­ Crew reported Seafarers LOGs Secretary Harry Gearhart, Educa­ vised crew to show support for received. Crew requested tional Director Howard Schoenly, refrigerators in rooms and juices union. Secret^ read communica­ for break room. Next port: Charles­ Deck Delegate Michael Stein, tions from Military Sealift CoiftSteward Delegate Eugene Perez. mand. Crewmembers asked ton, S.C. Chairman noted upcoming payoff. contracts department when hazard OM/Sr>l/?(OMI), March 13Secretary announced birth of his pay is in effect. No beefs or dis­ Chairman Robert Allen, Secretary 51b. 14 oz. baby boy. Educational puted OT reported. Chairman director urged members to upgrade W. Robles, Educational Director, urged members to keep ship clean. John Anderson, Deck Delegate at Piney Point. Engine delegate Crew requested more reading Julio Arzu, Engine Delegate announced upcoming fire and material. The SlU-crewed Empire State departed the port of Mogadishu on Joseph Manuel, Steward Delegate boat drill. Steward delegate March 24 with approximately 400 soldiers, marking the end of U.S. Andre Gee. Chairman encouraged reported disputed OT. No beefs SEA-LAND PRODUCER (Seaarmed forces support for the UN operation to feed starving Somalians. Land Service), February 6—Chair­ crewmembers to team up to get OB disputed OT reported by deck The vessel returned to New York on April 15, when this photo was shot work done. He thanked steward man Jack Edwards, Educational or engine delegates. Next port: From the left are Steward Assistant Eugene Perez, Chief Steward Director Brian Connell, Deck department for separating plastic New York. Tannous "Tony" Bachir and Steward Assistant Miguel Collizo. Delegate Larry Thompson. Chair­ items from regular garbage. No GREEN ISLAND (Waterman man advised crewmembers of late ar­ beefs or disputed OT reported. Steamship), April 25—Chairman rival in Oakland, Calif, and loading port: Charleston, N.C. sailing and urged crew to upgrade SEA-LAND INNOVATOR (SeaS. Reed, Secretary J. Reid. Chair­ of bunker oil in Long Beach, Calif. at Piney Point and donate to Land Service), March 14—Chair­ man noted Seafarers LOGs OMICHAMPiON(OMl), April Treasurer stated $50 in ship's fund. SPAD. No beefs or disputed OT received. Secretary thanked crew­ Deck delegate reported disputed OT. man Claude Dockrey, Secretary 3—Chairman M. De la Cerda, reported. Crewmembers discussed Jose Bayani, Educational Director members for good trip and hard Secretary L. Ewing, Educational No beefs or disputed OT reported by work. Engine delegate reported dis­ Director E. Gibson, Deck Delegate Sea-Land's efforts to re-flag vessel die Webber, Deck Delegate engine or steward delegates. and what it would mean to crew. Francis Henson, Engine Delegate puted OT. No beefs or disputed OT Larry McCants. Chairman an­ Crew thanked communications reported by deck or steward J.R. Miller, Steward Delegate A. STONEWALL JACKSON nounced ship scheduled for 30 department for "Scandal at Sea" delegates. Crew discussed starting Westbrook. Secretary thanked (Waterman Steamship), February days in shipyard in Mobile, Ala. video and noted all have viewed in­ movie fund. deck and engine departments for 27—Chairman Carl Lineherry, No beefs or disputed OT reported. teresting and shocking story. Crew maintaining clean ship. Deck Secretary E. Hoitt, Education^ Crew thanked galley gang for job extended special vote of thanks to LIBERTY SUN (Liberty delegate reported disputed OT. No Director Wayne McKeeler, Deck well done. headquarters for keeping crewmem­ Maritime), April 3—Chairman beefs or disputed OT reported by Delegate R.A. Christensen, En­ bers at sea updated on important Glen James, Secretary F. L. OMl DYNACHEM(OMl), April engine or steward delegates. Crew gine Delegate M. Novak, Steward union news. Washington, Educational Director extended special vote of thanks to 17—Chairman Larry Kunc, Delegate Farid Zaharan. Chair­ R. Kolonias. Chairman announced Secret^ Steven Wagner, Voca­ man announced Alexandria, Egypt SA Jose Castro, for job well done SEA-LAND INTEGRITY (Seakeeping mess halls clean and order­ ship to pay off before layup in New tional Director W.C. Weekley, to be next port before reaching Land Service), April 17—Chair­ Orleans. Secretary remind^ mem­ Deck Delegate Thomas Keenan, ly. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. Suez Canal. Secretary stated all man Leon Jekot, Secretary P. bers to clean rooms and turn in Engine Delegate Nester Martinez, Lahoy, Educational Director Den­ union forms are available from keys before signing off. Deck Steward Delegate Kenneth Kelly. SEA-LAND TACOMA (Seahim. Educational director en­ nis Baker, Steward Delegate B. delegate reported disputed OT. No Chairman reported ship has not Land Service), March 14—Chair­ couraged members to upgrade Lamb. Chairman announced beefs or disputed OT reported by received copies of new contract. man Joseph Artis, Secretary skills at Piney Point while on payoff in Charleston, N.C. No engine or steward delegates. Crew He advised members of payoff Mark Scardino, Educational beach or take summer vacation disputed OT reported. beefs or asked contracts department to look upon arrival in Long Beach, Calif. Director G. Ackley, Steward time to visit the fine facility. Crew requested repairs for chairs Secretary reminded crewmembers Delegate Frank Martin. Chairman into time off after foreign voyage. Treasurer reported $480 in movie and radio in crew recreation room. to put clean linens in rooms before stated crewmembers waiting for fund. Deck delegate reported dis­ Crew also asked for VCR and LNG AQUARIUS (ETC), April signing off. Treasurer noted new puted OT. No beefs or disputed OT copies of new contract. He an­ thanked steward department for job 22—Chairman JJ. Cooper, movies purchased with movie fund well done. nounced payoff in Tacoma, Wash. reported by engine or steward Secretary F. Robertson, Education­ monies. No beefs or disputed OT No beefs or disputed OT reported. delegates. Crew noted Seafarers al Director Endang Ahidin, Deck reported. Crew thanked galley SEALIFT ARABIAN SEA Crew asked contracts department LOGs brought aboard by patrol­ Delegate Norman Armstrong, En­ gang for job well done. (IMC), April 17—Chairman Tom to look into having company bring man. Crewmembers discussed Prather, Secretary A. Hassan, back van service for pedestrians in­ gine Delegate Aaron Thaxton, smoking policy as described in PFC. DEWAYNE T. WILUAMS Educational Director Donald Steward Delegate Perry McCall. new contract. Crew requested room side Sea-Land terminals. Crew Chairman compliment^ crewmem­ (Amsea), April 18—Chairman Swanner, En^ne Delegate James thanked steward department for antennas be fixed and gave vote of Alvin McCants, Secretary S. Aval- Mui^hy. Chairman noted dryer bers for job well done and keeping ship clean and providing thanks to steward department for lone, Educational Director P. reminded crew to smoke only in repaired and as a result, washing great meals. Chairman reminded job well done. Muellersman, Deck Delegate and drying of linens has been im­ crew to separate plastic from trash. desi^ated areas. He discuss^ John Davis, Engine Eielegate Fred proved. Crew welcomed new seatime needed for benefits. USNS ANTARES (Bay Ship Caltahiano, Steward Delegate Secretary advised crew to keep Management), February 27—thair- USNS ANTARES (Bay Ship steward aboard ship. Educational Gerald Bowman Jr.Chairman lounge clean. Educational director Management), March 27—Chair­ man Tom Casey, Secretary A. director reminded crewmembers encouraged members to upgrade at asked contracts department to send educational videos on underway Lagasca, Educational Director W. man Tom Casey, Secretaiy Lundeberg School. No beefs or dis­ copy of contract to ship. He an­ Pancho Lagasca, Educational replenishment are available for Day. Crew discussed need for nounced video of "Scandal at Sea" puted OT reported. Chairman Director William Day. Chairman viewing. No beefs or disputed OT more recreational equipment. received from headquarters and noted crewmembers should con­ discussed strict laws in Singapore Chairman discussed war zone reported. Chairman advised crew stressed need for crewmembers to duct themselves in proper manner and advised crewmembers to con­ bonus with crewmembers and that styrofoam cups are considered view. He advised members that duct themselves in safe manner. He at all times while ashore. plastic and so should not be mixed reminded members to keep all pay payoff has been extended to later reminded them that it is illegal to with paper. vouchers, discharges and receipts in the month instead of scheduled LNG LEO (ETC), April 24chew gum in that country and that for fiiture reference. Secretary time. No beefs or disputed OT SEALIFT PACIFIC (mC), April Chairman Carlos Pineda, the execution of Singapore law is asked crewmembers for sugges­ reported. Deck delegate urged 17—Chairman F. Gongora, Secretary David Pappas, Deck harsh and brutal. Bosun also en­ tions for crew photo for Seafarers Secretary J. Iverson, Vocational members to upgrade as much as Delegate Richard Henderson, En­ couraged members to upgrade LOG. Deck delegate requested possible at Paul Hall Center. Bosun Director Jason Etnoyers. Chairskills at Paul Hall Center. Secretary gine Delegate John Smith, blackboard and keys for crew reminded crewmembers to respect Steward Delegate Glenn Wil­ urged crewmembers to contribute lounge. He also advised members CorUinued on pe^e 20 local culture while in Guam and liams. Chairman asked crewmem­ conunents and suggestions to that utility room needs to be kept • ;!• Empire State Brings U.S. Soidiers Home '.v.-v ; .} V Vv. v ;V'A V r ^• v \ t 'i -s'v A; S: V .a.' •••; -i--- , f•!A '. • S-r v\.\ --''J-y y �20 §lups Digest Continued from page 19 ^•>-mSi; •^:^i4-'A ' ,Sarf.-f:'';.'' ;.. -.//.Ivtv-';' JULY 1994 SEAFARERS LOG ing machine needed for crew wash­ room. Secretary thanked crewmem­ bers for keeping ship clean and making voyage pleasant. Deck delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegates. Crew extended special vote of thanks to steward department for good meals and keeping clean ship. Crew reminded of importance of donat­ ing to SPAD. man noted ship due in Houston, then on to Jacksonville, Fla. Secretary discussed viewing educa­ tional films for training and stated taped video of facilities at Piney PointJ accompanied by course selections, would spur greater inter­ est by members who may not have OMI MISSOURI (OMl), May upgraded. Educational director 12—Chairman C.A. Gutierrez, reminded engine department mem­ Secretary R. Jones, Educational bers to apply to Paul Hall Center Director K. Hall, Engine Delegate for EPA course. No beefs or dis­ Nelson Patterson. Chairman an­ puted OT reported. nounced ship's arrival in Lake Charles, La. Educational director DUCHESS (Ocean Shipholding), stressed importance of crewmem­ May 1—Chairman Paul Domes, bers upgrading their skills at Piney Secretary R. Jones, Educational Point. No beefs or disputed OT Director L. Wright, Deck reported. Crew requested patrol­ Delegate Kevin Mercky, Engine man meet vessel in next port. Crew Delegate K. Friebel, Steward discussed smoking in designated Delegate Jose Bermudez. Chair­ areas. BoSun gave vote of thanks to man reported payoff in New York. galley gang. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crewmembers gave vote of thanks OMI PLATTE (OMI), May 8— to galley gang for job well done. Chairman Charles Parks, Secretary C. HoIIings, Educational JULIUS HAMMER {OCCl), May Director Elliott Rhodes, Deck 2-—Chairman J.R. Colonyelo, Delegate Stacy Twiford, Engine Secretary I. Salis, Educational Delegate Martin Allied, Steward Director Larry Phillips, Deck Delegate W. Jack. Chairman Delegate William Eden, Engine reported payoff in Port Arthur, Delegate Robert Auletto. Texas. He noted ship may or may Secretary noted all communica­ not go to shipyard. Crew will be ad­ tions to and from union head­ vised upon arrival in port. quarters are available to all Secretary stated additional stores crewmembers. Educational director will be available for next voyage. reminded members to get benzene Educational director reminded clearance before end of year. Chair­ crew to upgrade skills at Lunman discussed U.S. Coast Guard's deberg School. No beefs or dis­ policy of no longer keeping backup puted OT reported. Crew asked copies of crewmembers' dischar­ contracts department for clarifica­ ges. Treasurer stated $124 in ship's tion on vacation time. Crewmem­ fund. Deck and engine delegates bers thanked galley gang for job reported disputed OT. Steward well done. delegate reported beef. Chairman announced FAX from SIU head­ OMI STAR (OMI), May 19— quarters posted. Crewmembers re­ Chairman Robert Allen, Secretary quested repair or replacements for Edwin Semprit, Educational couch, VCR and TV in crew Director Joseph Manuel, Steward lounge. Crew also asked for new Delegate Ruben Casin. Chairman speakers, movieis and heavy duty conunended deck department for ice maker for crew lounge. job well done separating plastic from garbage and using good LIBERTY SEA (IMC), May 15— seamanship while cleaning tanks. Chairman Mario Romero, Secretary thanked crewmembers Secretai7 Neville Johnson, Educa­ for keeping galley and mess hall tional Director Thomas Martinez, clean. Vocational director advised Deck Delegate Mark Butler, En­ members to upgrade at Piney gine Delegate Gerald Rogers. Point. No beefs or disputed OT Chairman noted smooth sailing and reported. Crewmembers discussed advised members of payoff in New having separate lounge for nonOrleans. He added patrolman will smokers. Crew requested new fur­ meet ship in port. The bosun niture and new curtains in mess reminded Seafarers to sign crew hall and crew quarters. list and extended vote of thanks to galley gang for Job well done. OOCL INNOVATION (Sea-Land Secretary also reported smooth sail­ Service), May 8—Chairman A. ing and announced ship going to Moshin, Secretary R. Hess, Educa­ shipyard for 60 days in New Or­ tional Director R. Tannis, Deck leans. Educational director en­ Delegate Mark Lamar, Engine couraged members with enough Delegate Todd Smith. Chairman seatime to upgrade at Paul Hall advised members of various Center while on beach. No beefs or upgrading opportunities available disputed OT reported. at Lundeberg School and reminded them to donate to SPAD. Secretary LIBERTY STAR (Liberty reminded crew of security within Maritime), May 1—Chairman SIU. He noted upgrading forms John NefT, Secretary H. Jones Jr., available in each Seafarers LOG. Deck Delegate Leonard Zimmer­ No beefs or disputed OT. Crew ex­ man, Engine Delegate Robert tended strong vote of thanks to Woods, Steward Delegate H. steward department for job well Batiz. Chairman noted new washdone. Bosun asked crewmembers to help keep mess hall clean. He asked members not to slam doors in passageways or play loud music. Crew requested extra washing machine. Chairman thanked all departments for job well done. Next port: Norfolk, Va. Safety First! Assistant Cook Charles Collier Jr. participates in a lifeboat drill aboard the Cape Lobos while the Amsea vessel was being taken fronfi the Mobile shipyard to Wilmington, N.C. OVERSEAS ARCTIC (Maritime Overseas), May 18—Chairman J. Williams, Secretary H. Davis, Educational Director E. Figgie, Deck Delegate Ramon Castro, En­ gine Delegate L. Reynolds, Steward Delegate Juan Gonzales. Chairman advised crew of payoff in St. James, La. No beefs or disjuted OT reported. Crew asked contracts department to look into additional dental and optical >enefits. Bosun requested new TV antenna for crew lounge. Crew­ members extended special thanks to galley gang members Chief Steward Davis, Chief Cook Gon­ zales and SA Amulfo Lacayo for superb job in the culinary field. Next port: New Orleans. OVERSEAS OHIO (Maritime Overseas), May 25—Chairman Robert Pagan, Secretary Earl Gray, Educational Director M. Ribeird, Steward Delegate D. Bergeson. Chairman commended crewmembers for excellent work and thanked steward department for job well done. Secretary thanked crew for clean ship and for helping keep plastic separated from trash. He advised crewmembers to buy American-made union goods. Educational director urged mem­ bers to make use of Lundeberg School—the greatest seafaring school for unlicensed seamen in the U.S. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman advised mem­ bers that photos of ship and crew appear in May issue of Seafarers LOG. Crew thanked galley gang for great job done by all. Crew re­ quested new furniture, toaster, microwave oven and short wave radio for dining hall and recreation room. Next port: Valdez, Alaska. OVERSEAS VALDEZ(Maritime Overseas), May 8—Chairman Robert Zepeda, Secret^ Tyler Laffitte, Educational Director Earl Macom, Deck Delegate Tony Gar­ cia, Engine Delegate John Flem­ ing. Chairman reminded crew of payoff in Lake Charles, La. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Bosun gave vote of thanks to steward, engine and deck depart­ ments. SEA-LAND ATLANTIC (SeaLand Service), May 1—Chairman John Adams, Secretary Edward Porter, Educational Director Jerry DeUinger, Deck Delegate James Higgins, Vgine Delegate Kevin DeSue, Steward Delegate Bruce Mesger. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew extended special vote of thanks to galley gang for job well done. Next port: Charleston, S.C. SEA-LAND DISCOVERY(SeaLand Service), May 6—Chairman Nelson Sala, Secretary J.R. Colk, Educational Director J. Shuler, Deck Delegate E. Zoubantis, En­ gine Delegate Diosdado Compis, Steward Delegate Radomes Cosme. Chairman announced payoff in next port and reminded members to separate all plastic items from regular trash. Secretary announced stores were not received in New Orleans. Deck delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegate. Next porti ElizabetlHj«I.J. SEA-LAND EXPRESS (SeaLand Service), May I—Chairman E. Duhon, Secretary E. Douroudous, Educational Director R. Clock, Engine Delegate Richard Surrick. Educational director reported Seafarers LOGs received and urged all members to take advantage of upgrading oppor­ tunities available at Paul Hall Cen­ ter. Steward delegate reported disputed OT. Chairman reminded crewmembers to keep laundry door closed at night to eliminate noise. Crew requested transportation from gate to ship at least three times per day at Sea-Land Tacoma terminal. nold, Steward Delegate Rang Ngutyeti. Chairman urged mem­ bers to donate to SPAD. He ad­ vised crew to clean rooms before signing off and reminded themwhen going ashore—to check in with patrolman, immigration and customs. Secretary announced crewmembers extended special votes of thanks to deck department members Julius and Anthony SEAUFT ARABIAN SEA (IMC), May 15—Chairman Tom Prather, Secretary All Hassan, Educational Director D. Swanner, Deck Delegate Rodney Jimenez, Steward Delegate Joseph Simonetti. Chairman reminded members to have voice and vote in union meet­ ings. Educational director informed crewmembers that underway replenishment videotapes are avail- 4"'-I•' Manning the Galley "V .4 The galley gang aboard the cable ship Global Sentlnaldoes its best to keep its crewmembers well fed. From the left are Cook/Baker Billy Ahmed Muthana, 3rd Cook Brian Lindsey, Galleyman Rudy Moreira and Chief Cook Richard Monolo. Udan for donating fresh tuna in . Guam. Educational director en­ couraged members to upgrade at Lundeberg School and apply for the 1995 Seafarers scholarship. Treasurer stated $325 in ship's fund and $56 in movie fund after 10 new movies purchased. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew extended congratulations to Teamsters union for settlement of their strike. Crew thanked galley gang for cookouts and good feed­ ing. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. SEA-LAND PRODUCER (SeaLand Service), May 15—Chairman Jack Edwards,,Secretary Donna Jean demons. Educational Direc­ tor Jim Smitko, Deck Delegate Mark Stevens, Engine Delegate Ted Carter, Steward Delegate Susano Cortez. Chairman an­ nounced ship's arrival in Oakland, Calif. Treasurer stated $55 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT. Crew requested new iron. Bosun complimented crewmem­ bers on smooth trip. SEA-LAND TACOMA (SeaLand Service), May 3—Chairman Joseph Artis, Secretary M. Scaridino. Engine Delegate Charles Kennedy, Steward Delegate M. Buhaker. Chairman reminded members to return all dishes to pantry. He requested copy of new contract for ship. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Crew discussed importance of donating to SPAD and reported exercise equipment received. Crew gave vote of thanks to steward department for good ser­ vice and food. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. SEA-LAND VOYAGER (SeaLand Service), May 15—Chairman J. Lundhorg, Secretary L. Lightfoot, Vocational Director W. Hatchel, Deck Delegate James Delay, Engine Delegate D. Milla, SEA-LAND INNOVATOR (SeaSteward Delegate Dion Flunker. Land Service), May 8—Chairman Chairman not^ delay in schedule Claude Dockrey, Secretary Jose and payoff upon arrival in port. He Bayani, Educational Director • thanked crewmembers for good Brian Conell, Deck Delegate trip. Secretary reminded members Mark Lance, Engine Delegate signing off to leave room clean and J.R. Miller, Steward Delegate turn in keys. He annouriced there Gum Poy Wong. Secretary praised will be U.S. Coast Guard drill upon and thanked crewmembers for arrival in port which all crewmem­ clean and safe ship. No beefs or dis­ bers are required to attend. Educa­ puted OT reported. Crew compli­ tional director advised members to mented galley gang for job well upgrade skills at Piney Point. Deck done. Crew asked tiiat ship be delegate reported disputed OT. No fumigated upon arrival at next port, beefs or disputed OT reported by which is Long Beach, Calif. engine or steward delegates. Crew requested new microwave oven for SEA-LAND PACIFIC(Sea-Land crew lounge. Crew commended Service), May 15—Chairman galley gang for job well done and Lothar Reck, Secretary G. Bran­ extended special thanks to GSU A. son, Educational Director Taylor Alexander for keeping all spaces Clear, Deck Delegate Julius in "squeaky.clean" condition. Next Udan, Engine Delegate Joseph Ar­ port: Tacoma, Wash. •/if...'.' i-; ' •" > V.v able. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked steward department for fine meals served. Chairman noted new VCR and videotapes to be purchased at next American military base. Engine delegate announced engine depart­ ment is repairing ship's bicycle and building new shelves for crew laundry room. WESTWARD VENTURE (Interocean Management), May 11— Chairman M. Kadderly, Secretary R. Sanderson, Educational Direc­ tor C. Cunningham, Deck Delegate W.Sieggre^n, Engine Delegate S. Alvarado, Steward Delegate D.Skretta. Educational director urged members to read Seafarers LOG. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Crew discussed keeping individual drawers with locks for personal items. Chairman noted some movies are missing and reminded members to return after each use. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. STONEWALL JACKSON (Waterman Steamship), May 8Chairman Carl Lineherry, Secretary Ernie Hoitt, Educational Director Wayne McKeehan, Deck Delegate W. Gregory, Engine Delegate Michael Novak, Steward Delegate Farid Zaharan. Chair­ man announced arrival in Newport News, Va. and reminded members, to put plastics in designated con­ tainers so steward department can dispose of properly. He advised crew that pen^ty for not doing so begins at $25,0()0 and is reason for discharge from ship. Secretary noted all union forms, including vacation forms, are available. Educational director discussed ex­ cellent educational oppoitunities at Paul Hall Center. He also noted Piney Point is an excellent summer vacation site for entire family. Treasurer stated $480 in ship's movie fund. Beefs reported by deck, engine and steward delegates. No dis­ puted OT reported. Chairman reported Seafarers LOGs received in Bombay and Singapore. Crew asked contracts department to consider review of length of time members sail per job. He advised membeix to make copies of discharge papers be­ cause U.S. Coast Guard no longer retaining copies. Crew requested potato salad and better qu^ty steaks. Crew noted radio reception very poor and discussed keqring VCR tapes in m-der.. Crew thanked galley gang for job well done. Next port: Newport News, Va. �JULY 1994 SEAFARERS LOG • DEEP SEA VASCO BARROS Pensioner Vasco Barros, 81, passed away April 18. Bom in Shang­ hai, China, he began his sailing career with the Seafarers in 1951 in the port of New York. Brother Barros sailed in the engine department. In 1960, he received a personal safety award while sailing aboard the S.S. Wild Ranger. Brother Barros retired in March 1981. PETER DI CAPUA Pensioner Peter Di Capua, 71, passed away March 22. He joined the SIU in 1955 in his native Brooklyn, N.Y. Brother Di Capua sailed in the deck department. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to 1946. Brother Di Capua began receiv­ ing his pension in November 1988. JAMES FULLER Pensioner James Fuller, DANIEL BASARAC 68, died April 26. Pensioner Bom in Daniel Springfield, Basarac, 77, Mass., he died April began his 15. A Califor­ sailing career nia native, he with the joined the union in 1948 in the port of New Marine York. Brother Fuller sailed in the Cooks and deck department. He upgraded Stewards in frequently at the Lundeberg 1957 in the port of San Francis­ School. He served in the U.S. co, before that union merged Navy from 1942 to 1946. Brother with the Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes Fuller was a recipient of the Rus­ and Inland Waters District sian medal awarded to seafarers (AGLIWD). Brother Basarac who sailed in the convoy mns to began receiving his pension in Murmansk and Archangel during September 1978. World War II. Brother Fuller ROBERT BRIDGES JR. retired in April 1990. Pensioner ARTHUR GARRETTSON Robert Pensioner Ar­ Bridges Jr., thur Garrett65, passed son, 79, away May 5. passed away Bom in May 19. A Savannah, native of Ga., he Seth, W.Va., signed on he joined the with the SIU in Seafarprs in 1957 in the port of Lake Char­ 1954 in the les, La. Brother Bridges sailed in port of Alpena, Mich, as a the steward department. He Great Lakes member. In 1972, served in the U.S. Army from Brother Garrettson switched and 1947 to 1950. Brother Bridges began sailing in the deep sea retired in June 1990. division. He sailed in the engine EDWARD CHOW department. Brother Garrettson began receiving his pension in Pensioner Edward Chow, 65, September 1979. died September 11,1993. A na­ tive of China, he joined the MICHAEL GAUDIO Marine Cooks and Stewards in Pensioner Michael Gaudio, 94, 1945 in the port of San Francis­ died April 13. He signed on with co, before tihat union merged the SIU in 1958 in his native with the AGLIWD. Brother New York. Brother Gaudio pen­ Chow began receiving his sailed in the steward department. sion in July 1973. He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1942 to 1943. Brother PETER (GVOZDICH) Gaudio retired in July 1967. DANIELS Peter JACK LAKWYK Daniels, 68, Pensioner passed away Jack LaljApril 28. wyk, 78, Bom in Penn­ died April sylvania, he 15. Bom in joined the Holland, he Seafarers in joined the 1944 in the Marine port of New Cooks and Orleans. Brother Daniels sailed Stewards in in the deck department. 1952 in the port of New York, before that union merged with DUANEDEWITT the AGLIWD. Brother Lakwyk Pensioner served in the Dutch Navy from Duane 1936 to 1938. He retired in Dewitt, 65, August 1980. died March 23. A BlackTHOMAS MAGRAS foot, Idaho native, he Thomas joined the Magras, 70, Marine passed away March 26. A Cooks and native of the Stewards in 1974 in the port of San Francisco, before that union Virgin Is­ merged with the AGLIWD. lands, he joined the BroSier Dewitt served in the U.S. SIU in 1944 Army from 1950 to 1952. He in the port of retired in July 1993. .• I • • vS,-' ;: 1 ' ^ Final Departures 21 New York. He sailed to Norman­ dy during World War II and particiapated in the D-Day invasion. Brother Magras completed the bosun recertificdtion program at the Lundeberg School in 1982. STEPHEN POLLOCK Stephen Pol­ lock, 40, passed away January 31, 1989. A na­ tive of Los Angeles, Calif., he joined the SIU in 1978 after graduating from the trainee program at Piney Point. Brother Pollock sailed in the deck depart­ ment. CHARLES RIES Pensioner Charles Ries, 64, died May 16. Bom in Michigan, he began his sailing career with fte Seafarers in 1957 in the port of Seattle. Brother Ries sailed in the engine department. He upgraded at the Lundeberg School in 1976. Brother Ries served in the U.S. Army from 1946 to 1954. He retired in November 1988. CHARLES SCOTT Charles Scott, 35, \ passed away March 8. A native of Jamaica Queens, N.Y., he signed on with the union in 1993 in the port of Bal­ timore. Brother Scott sailed in the engine department. He last sailed aboard the Global Sen­ tinel. Brother Scott also sailed aboard other Transoceanic Cable ships such as the Global Mariner and Global Link. JEFFREY SERMON Jeffrey Sermon, 41, died May 6. Bom in Ohio, he began his sail­ ing career with the SIU in 1990 in the port of Wilmington, Calif. Brother Sermon sailed in the deck department. PETEI^^HELDRAKE Pensioner Peter Sheldrake, 69, passed away May 13. A native of England, he sailed in the deck department. Brother Sheldrake completed the bosun recertification program at the Lundeberg School in 1974. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1944 to 1948. Brother Sheldrake retired in Febraary 1983. STANLEY SOKOL Pensioner Stanley Sokol, 84, died May 26. Bom in Krakow, Polland, he worked as an AB aboard the last Polish passenger ship to sail (V , ; before the Nazis overran Poland in September 1939. Sokol joined the Sailors Union of the Pacific in 1940 and the SIU in 1941. He served aboard vessels that transported troops and goods to all theatres of World War II, Korea and Vietnam. Brother Sokol completed the bosun recer­ tification program at Piney Point in 1974. Brother Sokol began receiving his pension in July 1975. WILLIAM TERRELL William Terrell, 70, passed away April 29. A West Virginia native, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1962 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the AGLIWD. Brother Terrell retired in March 1989. FILOMENOVALIAO Pensioner Filomeno Valiao, 73, died September 29,1992. Bom in the Philippines, he joined the SIU in 1970 in the port of San Francisco. He sailed in the steward department. Brother Valiao began receiving his pen­ sion in September 1984. HAROLD WALKER Pensioner Harold Walker, 74, died May 10. Bom in Knoxville, Tenn., he signed on with the uiUon in 1976 in the port of New York. Brother Wa ker completed the steward recertification program at Piney Point in 1981. He retired in March 1989. FRANK WHITE Frank White, 39, passed away January 9. A San Francis­ co native, he begati his sailing career with the SIU in 1978 after graduating from the Lundeberg School trainee program. He sailed in the engine department. Brother White retumed to Piney Point in 1984 for upgrading cour­ ses. He last sailed aboard the SeaLand Innovator. INLAND JOHN BETHEL John Bethel, 39, passed away Decem­ ber 4, 1993. A Philadel)hia native, le joined the union in 1973 after completing the trainee program at Piney Point. Boatman Bethel sailed in the deck department. He last sailed with Moran Towing. % WILLIAM GLYNN William Glynn, 54, died May 9. Bom in Manteo, N.C., he began his SIU sailing career in 1962 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Boatman Glynn sailed in the engine depart­ ment. .• . ERIC RUIZ Eric Ruiz, 31, passed away May 23. A Louisiana na­ tive, he joined the Seafarers in 1984 in Piney Point, VId. after completing the Lun­ deberg School's training course for entry level boatmen. Brother Ruiz sailed in the deck department. He last sailed aboard Crescent Towing ves­ sels. GREAT LAKES MOHAMEDAMMARI Mohamed Ammari, 55, died March 26. Bom in Yemen, he signed on with the union m 1967 in the port of Buf­ falo, N.Y. Brother Ammari sailed in the steward department. He most recently sailed aboard the Boblo boats, which ferry pas­ sengers from Detroit to Boblo Is­ land. EDWARD SHEBER Edward Sheber, 62, passed away May 19. A native of St. Ignace, Mich., he joined the SIU in 1961 in the port of Alpena, Mich. Brother Sheber sailed in the engine department. WALTER WRIGHT Pensioner Walter Wright, 63, died May 17. Bom in New Jersey, he joined the Seafarers in 1965 in the port of Philadelphia. Brother Wright sailed in the deck department. He upgraded at the Lundeberg School in 1979. Brother Wright began receiving his pension in July 1984. ATLANTIC FISHERMEN BILLY WADDELL Billy Waddell, 59, passed away May 12. A Limestone, Tenn. na­ tive, he joined the Seafarers in 1%2 in the port of Detroit Brother Waddell sailed in the en­ gine department. He upgraded at the Lundeberg School in 1988. He served in die U.S. Marine Corps from 1952 to 1954. Brother Waddell last sailed aboard the Sea-Land Developer. NICHOLAS TOBIN Pensioner Nicholas Tobin, 85, died May 1. Bom in Placentia, Newfoundland, he was one of the original members of the Atlantic Fishermen's Union, an affiliate of the SIU, before it merged with the AGLIWD in 1981. Tobin fished off the shores of Gloucester and Boston, Mass. until his retirement in December 1973. -m:- a?®' �I. i '•:. i:n •i-: 22 SEAFARERSLOG •''•'•» • .VS>-sv'.'V"-• JULY 1994 •" Lundeberg School Graduating Classes Ir'.: Tj" .." •- -• Oil Spill Containment—Certificates of completion were receiveaby the May 27 class of upgraders. They are (from left, kneeling) Alex Lottig, Terry Smith, David Ellis, (second row) Sean Jones, Dennis Niemoeller, Raymona Gayton, Dennis Walker, Doug Flanagan, Phil Trainee Lifeboat Class 525—Graduating from trainee lifeboat class 525 are (from left, kneeling) Iddings and (last row, center) instructor Mark Jones. Raymond Maule, Kenrick Gaton, Frederick Baker, Tracy Grant, Teddy Del Rosario, Brian DeMerritt, Michael Stringer, (second row) Jermaine Love, Jim Peterson II, Neale Hutson, Mark Genesis Roman, Loren L. Dekett, Lawrence Casey, Robert Hendershott, Bryan Garibaldi, Gerald Hartman Jr., Daniel Williams and Ben Cusic (instructor). •• - Fireman, Oiler, Watertender—-Working their way up the engine department ratings are (from left, kneeling) Scotty Greenlee, David Wogan, Alex Lottig, Dennis Bennett, Alfredo Arana, Terry Smith, (second row) Joseph Williams, Tom Stead, Raymona Gayton, James Cedeno, Michael Natoli, David Ellis, Delson Richardson, Marshall Sanford, (third row) Brett Sollee, Robert Rogers, Dennis Walker, Doug TJ Upgraders Lifeboat—Upgrading graduates of the May 18 Flanagan, Thomas Wulforst, Sean Jones, Scott Vanslambrouck and Dennis Niemoeller. lifeooat class are (from left, kneeling) Lloyd Bates, Timothy Mizwicki, Thomas Pappas, (second row) Rodney Thomas, Francisco Harry and instructor Jake Karaczynski. Bridge Management—Upgrading members of the deck department completing the bridge management course on May 19 are (from left, first row) David Condino, Stephen Rivera, ToddJi/lcClane, Joe Mieluchowski, Michael Dempster, (second row) Tony Ray Gardner and Jim Brown (instmctor). ^ ^ Limited License—Completing the limited license course on May 19 are (from Upgraders Lifeboat—Graduating from the May 25 upgraders left) BernardDe Repentigny, Lloyd LaBeach, lifeboat course are Loren Wolfe (left) and Dennis Rilev Riley (riaht) (right) with Alfred Ziegele and Carlos L. Quintana. instructor Ben Cusic. Pumproom Maintenance Operations—Receiving their certification in pumproom maintenance operations on June 9 are (from left, kneeling) William Behan, Robert Rice, Milton Greene, (second row) Paul Barbadillo, Dan Holden (instructor), Chris z^bowicz, Daniel Taggart, Sean Nolan, Gary Frazer and Leroy Williams. y ^ r' Advancied Refrigeration Container Maintenance—^The June 9 graduates of the advanced refrigeration container maintenance class are (from left) Eric Malzkuhn (instructor), Edward Rynberg, Eric Sutton, Michael Brown and Adolfo Schuitze. �'-•—••^•'•<--<»-»-".w>eV;^.i—^rvy.«ire:j:«i6V-«fc~><^ ''V^ •• r- JULY 1994 SEAFARERS LOG I " J '> ' LUMDEBERG SCHOOL 1994 WGRiOUHG CWRSE SCHBIIHJE SlewanI Upgnding Courses The following is the course schedule for classes beginning between August and Drcember 1994 at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship located at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. All programs are geared to improve job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. The course schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the nation's security. Course Check-In Date Completion Dale Able Seaman September? October 21 Radar Certification August 19 August 26 September 16 September 23 October 14 October 21 November 4 . ?' . .v.v.yr- September 26 October? Limited License, Part 2 *. i Limited License, Part 3 October 21 October 24 November 4 Oil Spill Prevention and Containment - Lifeboatman ^ It Seaiift Operations & Maintenance Check-In Date Comfrietioil Date QMED - Any Rating August 1 October 21 Fireman/Watertender and Oiler September 12 October 21 Refrigeration Maint & Operations August 1 September 9 Pumproom Maint & Operatimis Septembers October 14 Hydraulics Octobers November 28 Crane Maintenance September 12 October 21 Welding October 24 November 18 ^ 1994Adult aiucatkm Schedule The following courses are available through die Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School. Please contact the admissions office for enrollment information. Completion Date Course Check-In Date GED Preparation 12 weeks - open-ended admisasion Check-In Date Completion Date Adult Basic Education (ABE) 6 weeks - open-ended admission August 26 October 21 September 2 October 28 English as a Second Language (ESL) 6 weeks - open-ended admission August 12 August 26 September 9 October 7 August 26 September? September 23 0^ber21 Developmental Studies August 22 Septembers Septembers August 26 September 9 General aiucaUen College Courses September 16 September 30 November 25 December 9 Basic/Advanced Fire Fighting Contact admissions office for starting dates ^ Safely SpetJaltyCmases Course Chief Cook, Chiesf Ste|raiA ; KVK-^;- October 21 October 10 Contact admissions office for starting dates All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. October 21 Limited License, Part 1 Completion Date Assistant Cook, Cook and Baker Course Bridge Management (Shiphandling) September 9 Check-In Date Course AH students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. Celestial Navigation September 12 Session III November 4 September 30 NOTICE TO SEAFARERS \-vM'n. Counse Check-In Date Completion Date Bosun Recertification October 3 November 7 •.'''SV- ••' • Primary language spoken UPGRADING APPLKAJm Name Address With this application. COPIES of your discharges must be submitted showing suffi­ cient time to qualify yourself forthe course(s) requested. You also must submit a COPY of each of the following: the first page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, your clinic card and the front and back of your z-card as well as your Lundeberg School identification card listing the course(s) you have taken and com­ pleted. Admissions Office WILL NOT schedule you until all of the above are received. (Middle) (First) (Last) (Stieet) (CiO-) (Zip Code) (State) Telephone ( ) Date of Birth. (Month/Day/Year) (Area Code) Deep Sea Member• Lakes Member• ^ In order to betfer meet the future needs of SIU members, the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship located at the Paul Hall Center for Maritiine Training and Education will be ruiming a decreased class schedule during the months of Novemberand December. During this time period, the school will be preparing additional classes based on new governmental regulations, upgrading present course materialsand repairing and maintainingclassroom equipment Instructors also will be attending advancedcourses to enhance theirknowledge and skills.The full 1995 class schedule, which will be ready in late fall, will be published in the Seafarers LOG as soon as it is released. Members with any questions may contact the school's admission office at (301) 994-0010. RecerUflcaUen Programs \ 23 ' Inland Waters Member• END DATE BEGIN DATE COURSE • • I' If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Book# Social Security # . Department Seniority U.S. Citizen: •Yes • No Home Port. Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held Are you a graduate of the SHLSS trainee program? ^ If yes, class »»# — Have you attended any SHLSS upgrading courses? Rating:. LAST VESSEL: n Yes / •Yes If yes, course(s) taken Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? • Yes GNO Firefighting:GYes GNO CPRCGYCS •V " CU No SIGNATURE. •No Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. GNO ^ .DATE. '' i-- .{ RETURN COMPLETED APPLICATION TO: Lundeberg Upgrading Center. P.O. Box 75. Piney Point. MD 20674. mm:-'-' • '-V!I• i-yi ft I. Date Off:. Date On: -a " -. • . 1 . - - • • - I . ••••-: ir ^4^^' ' •'T ~ .I I! •'.7v ••• • �SEAmitEMtS SEAFARERS: Act Now: Don't Put Your Vacation Plans Off Any Longer! There is still time to plan a family holiday this summer at the Lundeberg School. For additional information, see page 18. July 1994 Volume 56, Number / For the Hills, SIU Runs in the Family Although he understandably rott, sailed with the SIU. In still resides in the Houston area, does not remember it, SIU short, says Billy, Seafarers where he now works as the permember Billy Hill got a very definitely run in the Hill family. sohnel manager for a taxicab "Plus I have three sons, and company. "He graduated from early taste of the camaraderie and generosity shared by mem­ all three want to ship," he states. high school on a Friday and "I'm always bragging about the went to work on a tug that Mon­ bers of the Seafarers. day. "My dad (retired Seafarer union." "I never pushed him or Chuck Hill) was on a tanker the Proud Parent Tracy, but I'm glad that's what day I was born," he recalls. Chuck Hill, 66, served in the to do. That's where they wanted Later, "he had the whole crew Navy during World War 11 and come to the hospital, and they then joined the SIU in 1947 in the money is for blue-collar brought me all kinds of gifts: the port of Houston. He sailed people today." baseball gloves and bats, you until 1986. Adventurous Lifestyle THREE GENERATIONS: Chuck Hill's late Stepfather, Thomas Pafrott name it. Keep in mind, I was one For Billy Hill, who also lives (left), was a chief steward in the SIU. Chuck Hill (center) sailed I was young and ready to see day old. the world," he declares. "Then I in the Houston area, much of the as a recertified bosun before switching over to the inland division; "But I like to say I was bOm started a family, and the con­ attractiveness of a seafaring and Billy Hill recently completed the bosun recertification course into the SIU. It's in my blood." tracts started getting better and career stemmed from "the ad­ at Piney Point. Billy, 36, completed the better. It seemed natural to stick venture, and a different lifestyle than a factory job or an office family life that is so important to 14-year-old Michael, 8-yearbosun recertification course at with it." the Paul Hall Center last month. Twenty years ago. Chuck job," he explains. "I've loved it him. "I see my family more than old Laura, and 6-year-old Billy His father also sailed as a recer­ began working on tugboats. He from the beginning, and the sea most people see theirs, because Jr.—enjoy outdoor activities when I'm home, I'm home for a such as Bshing and camping. tified bosun before switching to occasionally was accompanied calls me back, no question." the inland division, while by Billy (then a teenager), who Another attraction is the long time," he says. "But I'm They also are avid baseball fans. But, like his father and Billy's brother, Tracy, is a chief showed a strong eagerness to uninterrupted time he is able to also happy to go back to sea, pumpman. spend with his family when he because I consider the member­ brother, Billy cannot resist learn the trade. Additionally, Chuck's step­ I really taught him every­ is not sailing. In fact, Billy, who ship to also be my family. In that going back to sea. "I enjoy my work, and I'm grateful for the father, the late Thomas Par- thing I knew," says Chuck, who last sailed aboard the OMI sense, I feel very lucky." When Billy is on the beach, opportunity to earn a living by Champion, chuckles at LEFT: Chuck Hill the notion that his work he and his wife, Kay, and their doing something I like," he (second from left) and may put a strain on the children—18-year-old Kenny, says. "This is a good life." [fellow Seafarers meet with SIU Port Agent Joe Perez (right) for a payoff aboard ship. BELOW: Billy Hill (left) and David Murray prac­ tice CPR as part of the bosun recertification course. This 1970 photograph shows Chuck Hill (third from left) being honored by then-Texas Senator John Tower for courageous actions in Vietnam. Hill helped extinguish a shipboard fire that had been triggered by a napalm bomb. Also pictured (frorn left) are Billy and Tracy Hill, Mrs. Bobbie Hill, F. McNernyof the Maritime Administration and R. Wilkens Jr., president of Wilkens Shipping Co. Help Locale Thb Mining Child The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children has asked the Seafarers Intemational Union to assist them in locating Johann Karl Kaiser-Friedrich. Missing from Raleigh, N.C. since July 26, 1991 when he Johann Kaiser-Friedrich was 3 years old, the child was abducted by his non-custodial mother, Karin Rita Kaiser. A felony warrant has been issued in her name. At the time of his disap­ pearance, the blonde-haired, brown-eyed boy was 3'1" tall and weighed 33 pounds. His hair color was turning reddish brown and he has a faint scar on the right side of his forehead. Anyone having information on the whereabouts of Johann should contact the National Center for Missing and Ex­ ploited Children at (800) 8435678 or the Missing Persons Unit of the Raleigh Police Department at (919) 8903961. •it : � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 1990-1999 Description An account of the resource Volumes LII-LXI Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993; Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource July 1994 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES HOUSE, SENATE TO TACKLE U.S. SHIP BILL THIS MONTH 3,000 TIMES OVER, PENSIONER URGES CONGRESS TO BACK U.S. MARITIME SIU SCHOOL TO TRAIN SEAFARERS IN EPA REFRIGERANT HANDLING INLAND RIVER SAFETY DANGERS SPOTLIGHTED BY NTSB REPORT AGENCY’S RECOMMENDATIONS INCLUDED IN WATERWAY BILL HOUSE PANEL CLEARS CRUISE SHIP ACT FOR ACTION MERCHANT FLEET IS VITAL FOR AMERICA’S GOALS PENA RELEASES 4-POINT PROGRAM TO MAKE U.S. SHIPYARD COMPETITIVE COAST GUARD, MSCPAC CHANGE COMMANDERS CAR CARRIER RE-FLAGGED; SEAFARERS JOIN SHIP MATSON BEGINS W. COAST SHUTTLE AND FEEDER SERVICE GOLDEN MONARCH IS CONVERTED FROM TANKER TO BULK GRAIN CARRIER WWII MARINERS NOT FORGOTTEN IN D-DAY TRIBUTES SIU-CREWED ORGULF TUGS OPERATE AT NEAR CAPACITY BOATMEN RATIFY NEW CONTRACT WITH ASSOCIATION OF MD. PILITS OIL BOAT SEAFARERS ENDORSE NEW PACT CONGRESS CONTINUES WORK ON HEALTH CARE REFORM APL FILES SUIT TO RECOVER COSTS FOR DAMAGES TO PRES. WASHINGTON VALUE OF TEAMWORK PROVES BENEFICIAL FOR OBREGON SEAFARERS AMERICAN KESTRAL CREW EMPHASIZES SAFETY ITF SECURES BACK PAY FOR FILIPINO CREWMEN SAB ISSUES MODIFICATION TO RULES 33 REFRIGERATION TECHNICIAN COURSES TO BE HELD AT TWENTY U.S. SITES FOR THE HILLS, SIU RUNS IN THE FAMILY Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 07/01/1994 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 56, No. 7 1994 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/e45a3f37f11f164e639de1d35c430e54.PDF fef058836f93f59c9c1f02b0b95478b3 PDF Text Text ^ -^t, ii:^ w ik-^i<ft&a^^;s.iai^^iii^ -j M(ivSfe-.^=SP^^^^^>"'*^^ £w:s«.i.irtm^-^. --r ^ ^ • -r, • "•'W- •• <x • ".. • <; •if:-,iJv: Volume 56, Number 6 %:• :#• June 1994 D-Day-The Invasion Fifty years ago this month, Allied forces invaded the beaches of Normandy, France to begin the final assault on Nazi Germany. Fierce fighting and ingenious engineering turned the Norman- dy beaches into a platform from which Allied troops could be supplied as they advanced on German troops (inset). Hundreds of Liberty ships, like the one above, crisscrossed the North Atlantic and the English Channel, dodging bombs and torpedoes, to deliver the goods. On page 3, Seafarers recall their memories of serving during D-Day and the rest of the war •s,f d' �r (: X . rii:: • . 2 H -• • SEAFARERS LOG JUNE 1994 .j\ jkii.?" • President's Report Hall Lecturer Calls on Industry Honoring WWII Seafarers '••. , - . • • ••-. • i. i ^ -3, This month, we mark the 50th anniversary of D-Day, acknow­ ledged as the greatest military amphibious assault of all times. The stories of heroic efforts surrounding the June 6, 1944 invasion of France by U.S., British and Canadian forces have filled the newspapers and airwaves. The Allies won the invasion because of the immense collec­ tive effort of all involved. The day produced many heroes and many who gave their lives to the struggle. The SIU joins with the nation in remem­ bering and saluting the members of the Michael Sacco Navy, Marines, Coast Guard and mer­ chant marine who played such an important role in gaining the beachhead that led to the ultimate victory over Nazi Germany. Everyone at D-Day played a vital role toward the victory and in no way do we want to diminish their importance. But, as a rep­ resentative of a seagoing union from which many of its members took part in the war effort, I want to reflect.for a moment on the job performed by Seafarra^ during this turning point in world histoiy. Seafarers were among the first to feel the ravages of World War II. Six months before Pearl Harbor was attacked, SIU mem­ bers were forced to man their lifeboats when a German U-boat sank the S.S. Robin Moor. Only days after the United States entered the fray against the Axis powers. Seafarers were losing their lives because U-boats were firing torpedoes into merchant vessels leaving American ports along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts. ^ Yet, no SlU-crewed vessel was forced to stay in port during World War n because it lacked the men needed to sail it. Despite the dangers faced on the high seas, no ammunition ship, no tanker, no supply ship stayed at the dock longer than it had to because it lacked a crew. Seafarers returned to the sea time and again without question to aid the Allied cause. In some cases, these members had been rejected as volunteers for military service, but believed they had to help America win the war. Thus, they became merchant mariners and faced the same dangers as those in the U.S. Army, Navy, Marines and Coast Guard. They were strafed from dive ix>mbers, shelled by sea and shore-based batteries, attacked by submarines and exposed to the elements, whether it be the ice, cold and snow of the North Atlantic or the steamy, tropical mon­ soons of the South Pacific. Despite these dangers. Seafarers delivered the goods. From 1941 to that historic day in June 1944, SIU members were among the merchant mariners who crewed the Liberty ships, tug­ boats and tankers that resupplied Britain — and from there the Allied forces in Africa, Russia, and, later, Italy. Merchant mariners set sail from America, the "Arsenal of Democracy" as it became known, with tanks, bullets, bombs, gasoline and troops for the inevitable invasion of France. M^en the go was finally given for the Normandy invasions. Seafarers were among the first to face the fire of Nazi guns. More than one thousand merchant mariners, among them SIU members, volunteered to sail a fleet of 32 damaged vessels loaded with high explosives to the shores of Normandy. The waters along the beach had been booby-trapped with mines and other devices designed to prevent such an invasion. The mariners negotiated the dangerous waters, then scuttled their ships in order to create safe breakwaters for the landing crafts loaded with troops that would be arriving soon. Otiier Seafarers were aboard the supply ships running shuttle service to the Normandy beaches delivering troops and supplies and returning to British ports with injured soldiers, sailors and mariners. All the time they were doing this under a steady rain of bombs and shells. Many vessels made more than one roundtrip on D-Day, and continued to run supply missions until the end of the war. Still more Seafarers crewed the tugs and other small vessels that were used to ferry tanks, half-tracks and other weapons to the beaches. They played an important role in rescuing wounded soldiers and sailors whose crafts were destroyed before reaching land. After the invasion was known to be a success, the Allied supreme commander for D-Day, U.S. Army General Dwight Eisenhower, recapped to reporters the events of June 6,1944. He remembered the deeds of the merchant fleet, saying, "When final victory is ours, there is no organization that will share it^ credit more deservedly than the merchant marine." The toll in lives lost was tremendous among all involved in the invasion. However, from the toehold that was gained June 6, the Allies were able to march across Europe from the west, east and south to overrun Nazi Germany in just 11 months. As they had done before D-Day, Seafarers, along with the rest of the U.S. merchant fleet, continued to equip the troops in the field with arms, food and other materiel. While Patton's famed "Red Ball Express" drove toward Germany, the merchant marine's "Rib­ bon of Steel" continued to unite America with its Allies until the final victory was won, both in Europe and the Pacific. As part of the 50A anniversary of D-Day, the Liberty Ship Jeremiah O'Brien sailed from San Francisco to Normandy to represent all the men of the U.S. merchant marine who gave so much to ensure D-Day would be a success. We should all give thanks to the tremendous job they performed in service for their coimtry. To Adopt a 'Broad' Approach In Crafting Program for Fleet Rebuilding a U.S.-flag mer­ chant marine can only be done b taking a "broad" approach, reject­ ing "narrow and legalistic fixes, said James R. Barker, the chair­ man of Interlake Steamship Hold ing Company and a longtime activist in behalf of U.S. shipping who served as the 1994 Paul Hal Memorial Lecturer. Barker, who also is the prin cipal owner and vice chairman o Mormac Marine Group, Inc., told a group of some 140 repre­ sentatives of the shipping in­ dustry, government, legal field, academia and unions that the maritime industry "must start thinking of economic and policy reforms in a broader context than Calling on representatives of the maritime industry to work together the next promotional program." for a policy to cover U.S.-flag merchant ships into the next century is Delivering the Paul Hal James R. Barker, the 1994 Paul Hall Memorial lecturer. Memorial Lecture on May 4 in Washington, Barker recollectec problem." Next, he stated that the areas of crew size and wages. working with Hall, the late presi­ America "must get 'more boats in He acknowledged, 'To its cr^it, dent of the SIU. tiie water' under U.S.-flag." Also, maritime labor has announced its In introducing Barker to the the U.S.-flag industry "must be­ willingness to be an active par­ audience, Herbert Brand, chair­ come cost-competitive" and, ticipant in this process." man of die Paul Hall Memorial finally, "we must make maritime But Barker warned that any Committee, pointed out that the an all-inclusive game." policy that does not actually in­ guest lecturer had worked Regarding government as a crease the number of ships in the together with Hall on many ef­ solution. Barker noted, "Govern­ U.S.-flag merchant fleet "should forts, including passage of the ment relates to the maritime in­ not be confirsed with true reform." Merchant Marine Act of 1970. dustry in two ways — it's both a In order to get more ships, the "James Barker's leadership of customer and a rulemaker. The cargo must be available. Barker the National Maritime Council in government as rulemaker must stated. And in order to get the the '70s, an organization of look beyond the government as a cargo, U.S.-flag shipping must be diverse maritime interests, customer in deciding maritime cost-competitive. showed what could be ac­ )olicy." He called on the government complished to meet the industry's to relieve maritime of "burden­ needs at that time," said Brand, some regulations and tax policies who worked closely for years in that are robbing the industry of many capacities wiA the late SIU the economic t^nefits of advan­ president ces in technology. He called Barker "a working "Industrywide our produc­ class guy who worked his way tivity gains have been impressive: through Ivy League schools to be­ more cargo moved by fewer ships come a principd owner and vice and less manpower; cargo carried chairman of Mormac and chair­ per crewmember up 860 percent; man of Interlake Steamship Hold­ and cargo delivered per ton of Herbert Brand, chairman of the fuel burned more than doubled. ing Company." ^aul Hall Memorial Committee, To open the meeting. Dr. recounts many struggles for But the benefits of those gains Robert Friedheim, director of the maritimethe waged together by cannot be stolen from the industry Sea Grant Program of the Univer­ Barker and Hall. by hostile tax and regulatory sity of Southern California's policies." Hancock Institute for Marine He added the maritime in­ Work Together Studies, explained the lecture was dustry is not seeking special treat­ established in 1987 as part of an ment, but "equal treatment — to Finally, the Mormac executive endowment established by other domestic transportation modes noted all aspects of ihadtime —• friends and associates of Hall in or to our foreign competitors." labor, operators and shipyards — organized labor, maritime and He also said American have to work together to reach the other related fields out of respect maritime companies who operate same goal. to his memory. The annual lecture breign subsidiaries should be He challenged each person in provides a public forum for repre­ subjected to the same tax policies the industiy to examine his or her sentatives of the maritime in­ as U.S. companies with foreign own position on the issue and test dustry to bring forward their operations. it against his principles of getting views on U.S.-flag merchant As a way of getting more U.S.- more U.S.-flag vessels afloat, shipping. lag merchant vessels sailing, making government part of the Jarker noted maritime labor and solution and encouraging more Outlines GMIS operators must work together in participation by U.S.-flag ships. In planning what to say at the lecture. Barker said he thought The full textofJames Barker^s 1994Paul about his many meetings with HaU Memorial Lecture is on pages 12-1J, Hall. "Paul was always one to whom the industry would look for June 1994 leadership," Barker told the Volume 56. Number 6 audience. "Thus, as I sat down to prepare this talk, I presumed to The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 0160-2047) is published ask, 'How would Paul approach monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, trying to build a stronger and bet­ Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District; AFL-CIO; 5201 ter U.S. merchant marine at a time Auth Way; Camp Springs, Md. 20746. Telephone (301) when the future of the U.S.-flag 899-0675. Second-class postage paid at MSG Prince fleet is truly in doubt?"' Georges, Md. 20790-9998 and at additional mailing Barker outlined four "broad offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the principles" that he believed were Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, Md. in keeping with Paul Hall's ap­ 20746. proach and that would be neces­ sary to reinvigorate America's Managing Editor, Daniel Duncan; Associate Editors, Jor­ shipping capability. First, he dan Biscardo and Corrina Christensen; Associate not^, "Government must be part Editor/Production, Deborah A. Hirtes; Art, Bill Brower. of the solution, not part of the �. .' . • ••'• '• Vi< • 'ij JUNE1994 SEAFARERS LOG 3 50 Years Later, Seafarers Recall D-Day MassivCy Daring Invasion of Normandy Led to Victory for Allies 'i fc.|» '(,i'/r^ ''vnv-.^.'vr •. :. As the nation recalls the drama of the invasion of Europe 50 years ago on June 6, 1944, which changed the course of the war and resulted in the eventual defeat of the German armies, Seafarers remembered the part played by American shipping and in par­ ticular SIU crews in the conflict. "It was just busier than you can imagine, and the sky looked like it was the Fourth of July," said Aleksander Padu, who began shipping in 1942. "From the water, you could see the fighting on the beach. ... Everyone wanted to knock the Germans out." D-Day turned out to beexactly that knockout. It was the begin­ ning of the end of the war. Eleven months later the Allies had declared victory in Europe. The turning point of the war AP/Wide World Photos this month will be memorialized This view of a Normandy beach, one of the Allied objectives on the coast of France, shows the masses of men and equipment being landed in a slew of commemorative ac­ from the various vessels lying offshore. The photo was taken on June 9, three days after the initial landings. tivities both in Europe and the United States, many of which In the 109 days after D-Day, General Dwight D, Eisen­ In the weekis prior to the in­ Air strikes during the week before have been in planning stages for Seafarers helped land 2.5 million vasion, Allied ships and landing D-Day belied the impending as­ hower postponed the original inyears. U.S. President Bill Clinton troops, 17 million tons of am­ craft assembled at every port sault and also provided clear skies vaision date (June 4) due to foul weather in the English Channel, has travelled to Europe to take munition and supplies and a half- along England's southern coast. for the invasion. and the wait paid off as conditions part in the ceremonies. Re-enact­ million trucks and tanks. improved. ments of the Normandy invasion Altogether, it was the largest am^ Between midnight and dawn will take place in Virginia Beach phibious operation ever on June 6, thousands of Allied and Chicago. launched. vessels began crossing the chan­ Much of D-Day should never "The English Channel looked nel. Backed by bombers and other be re-enacted, said Henri like a two-way highway," aircraft carrying more than Starckx, who arrived at Omaha recalled retired Bosun Padu. 23,000 troops, they rendezvoused Beach, one of five beaches taken The logistics operation sup­ before heading south to the codeby U.S., British and Canadian for­ plying the Allied armies' offen­ named Normandy beaches. ces, a day after the initial assault. sive from D-Day forward relied Americans landed at Omaha and "Tltere were many bodies in the heavily on U.S. commercial ship­ Utah beaches, the British landed water, and we were fired upon by ping. The fleets of the European at Gold and Sword and the the Germans," Starckx recalled. nations had been captured by Canadians landed at Juno. Thousands of mariners from Germany as it conquered nation Meanwhile, American and the SIU and the affiliated Sailors' after nation. British parachutists were drop­ Union of the Pacific, as well as ping nearby, and British bombers U.S. Answers Call the Marine Firemen's Union unloaded 6,000 tons of bombs on The Europeans also lacked the (which later became affiliated coastal batteries between Cher­ with the SIU) and Marine Cooks industrial capacity to build ships, bourg and Le Havre, points which and Stewards (which merged so it fell to the United States and flanked the beaches. with the SIU) took part in the its ingenious industry and In the half-hour prior to the initial beachhead operations at American workers to replenish landings at dawn, American Normandy and in the crucial the commercial fleet active in supply line that followed until the delivering vital materiel to the Al­ continued on page 11 German surrender in May 1945. lied forces. 'v., . ym • • :M ' : r ^ SIU Announces Seven 1994 Scheiarship Winners Three Seafarers and Four Family Members are Awarded College Funds Three Seafarers and four children of SIU members were awarded scholarships by a panel of educators who met last month to review the qualifications of each of the applicants for the 1994 endowments. Since the inception of the Seafarers scholarship program in 1952, 235 students have benefitted from the education stipends. Seafarer Joseph J. Turocy of Pittsburgh was awarded a $15,000 scholarship to be used toward a four-year degree. Turocy, 29, currently sails aboard the OMISacramento. He attended Richard Stockton Col­ lege in New Jersey last fall as a non-matriculated student and plans to continue there in the fall, majoring in history arid English—while continuing to sail. Lawrence D. McNutt, 24, won a $6,000 scholarship wiA which he hopes to complete his undergraduate degree at the University of Washington and go on to medical school. McNutt began his seagoing career through the Lundeberg School trainee program in 1990. Another 1990 graduate of the trainee program is the third scholarship winner, Michael Dean Miller. The 29-year-old has upgraded his culinary skills at the Lundeberg School and hopes to use his scholarship at Western Culinary Institute in Oregon or Scottsdale Culinary Institute in Arizona to become a professional chef. , The SIU's schplarship pro­ gram is recognized throughout the academic community as one of the largest unrestricted grants awarded to sonsand daughters of union members. Scholarship winners can pursue four years of study at any college or university in the Unitied States or its ter­ ritories in whatever field they choose to follow. The money is paid over the course of four years. For biographical sketches of each scholariship winner, see page 9 > This year it was four daughters of Seafarers who won the dependents' scholarship: Amy Rene6 Belote, daughter of inland member Richard A. Belote; Alanna Marie Bragg, daughter of deep sea member William Edward Bragg; Dawn Marie Martin, stepdaughter of Boatman John W. Bilich Sr.; and Denise Kay Moore, step­ daughter of inland member Rus­ sell E. Hudson. Each year a panel of profes­ sional educators, appointed by the Board of Trustees of the Seafarers Welfare Plan, judge all the scholarship applications on the basis of scholastic ability, character, high school grades, college board exams or American college test scores, let­ ters of recommendation and participation in extracurricular activities. This year's panel was comprised of the following scholars and academicians: Father David Albert Boileau, Loyola University; Dr. Trevor Carpenter, Charles County (Md.) Community College; Dr. Michael Glaser, St. Mary's Col­ lege of Maryland; and Dr. Keith Schlender, die Medical College of Ohio. Also on the scholarship selec­ tion committee were Dr. Charles Lyons Jr. of the American As­ sociation of Colleges and Universities; Dr. Charles D. O'Connell Jr. of the University of Chicago; Dr. Gayle A. Olson of the University of New Orleans; and Dr. Henry Toutain of Gustavus Adolphus College in Minnesota In a congratulatory letter to each of the scholarship recipients, John Fay, secretary of the Board of Trustees of the Seafarers Welfare Plan, noted, "We are pleased that the Welfare Plan can offer these scholarship funds to assist you in your en­ deavors." SIU President Michael Sacco also sent a letter of con­ gratulations to the SIU members who were selected as well as to the fathers of the dependents dhosoi to receive the scholarship. Now is not too early to start thinking about applying for a college scholarship ipfornex for next year. The deadline is April 15,1^5. t. -ii �v . • ' V''' " 4 MNE1994 SBAFMBISUK Ship Bill Hears House Fleer Senator Breaux Wants More Ships in Program; Maritime Unions Urge Senate Panel to Back Plan The legislative package back­ an increase in tonnage fees. Sue ed by the administration that is fees would raise approximately designed to provide incentives to $170 million annually. It requires U.S.-flag shipping operations that all ships entering the Unitec will soon be taken up by the entire States from a foreign port pay House of Representatives flat 53 cents per registered ton Meanwhile, on the Senate side nage. Such a duty would be col during a Merchant Marine Sub lected for the first 12 voyages committee hearing on the annually into U.S. ports. TTiis proposal. Senator John Breaux House bill also contains fundin. (D-La.) urged that an additiona for a shipbuilding program. 20 to 25 ships be added to the 52 Breaux: "Add Ships" vessels that would be eligible for With the full House almost government funding as the legis ready to take up the maritime pro lation is currently written. At the gram on the floor, the Senate ver­ same hearing, the presidents o sion of the plan, known as the the five major unions repre­ Maritime Security and Trade Act senting seagoing workers, callec on the Senate subcommittee to of 1994, or S. 1945, is being taken up in committee. strongly support the maritime At a May 4 hearing of the revitalization effort. Senate Merchant Marine Sub­ '^ %' • MarAd Proposes Plan to Include Great Lakes In Preference Program The Maritime Administration has outlined a trial program that would allow foreign-flag feeder ships to carry government-impelled food aid from Great Lakes ports to transshipment points north of the St. Lawrence Seaway. The cargo then would be transferred to a U.S.-flag vessel which would carry the food to its ultimate destination. The program is scheduled to last for one year. It is designed to allow grain, com and other food items to be loaded onto vessels in ports along Lakes Superior, Michigan, Huron, Erie and Ontario. As most deep sea U.S.-flag vessels are not able to navigate the seaway and its locks, st^er foreign-flag vessels would be allowed to cany the cargo to a Canadian port The nial program does not take away from the cargo preference law, created in 1954, that requires 75 percent of all government-impelled freight to be carried aboard U.S.-built, U.S.-flag vessels with American crews. J* *1' SIU President Michael Sacco responded positively to Breaux's recommendation. "Scrapping the old and putting dollars into a new plan, a new program, for new automated ships is a good idea. "Unless we have a commercial program where you are going to employ American seamen aboard these ships, eventually, after time, 52 ships is not going to give you the manpower force you're look­ Newport News Shipyard Lands ing for to man these reserve ves­ Contract to Renovate Independence A contract authorizing the renovation of the SlU-crewed SS Inde­ sels when there is a crisis or a pendence has been signed between Arperican Hawaii Cruises and New­ war," Sacco said. News Shipbuilding of Newport News, Va. In addition to Sacco, the fol­ portUpon completion of its regular passenger voyageon July 2, the vessel lowing union presidents appeared will sail to Newport News via the Panama Canal for a twO-month drydock before the panel: Michael where all renovations will take place, begirming July 19. McKay, president, American Plans for the 683-foot ship include structural repaire, machinery Maritime Officers; Joel Bem, replacement and extensive accommodation work, including cabin and president. District No. 1— public-space renovation. The vessel's air-conditioning, electrical and Marine Engineers Beneficial pollution-control systems will also be upgraded. The Independence is scheduled to resume service around the Association; and Timothy Hawaiian Islands on October 8. Plans call for its sister ship, the SS Brown, president. International Constitution, to undergo a similar restoration in 1995. American Hawaii Organization of Masters, Mates Cruises is owned by Delta Queen Steamboat Company. & Pilots. Louis Parise, president In addition, Newport News Shipbuilding recently announced that it of District 4—National will begin Construction on four 46,000-deadweight-ton tankers to sell to Maritime Union/MEBA was a Greek shipowner. ITiis marks the first U.S. commercial ship export sale since 1957. represented by Tal Simpkins. J/ House Backs Funding committee, its chairman, Breaux Part of the legislative proposa outlined an idea to reduce the to revitalize American shipping bulkers in the Ready Reserve cleared the House Merchant Force (RRF) fleet from 48 to 20 Marine and Fisheries Committee The RRF, which consists of ves­ with a unanimous vote on May sels that no longer are used in the 26. This part is known as the commercial trades and have been Maritime Administration and purchased by the government and Promotional Reform Act of 1994, laid-up until they are needed for a Unions' Joint Statement orH.R.4003. military activation, currently is The five unions presented a Legislation Offered to Keep Cadets made up of close to 100 vessels. One step remains on the House joint statement to the Senate Mer­ From Paying Tuition at Kings Point 'To sell off 28 of those ships chant Marine Subcommittee ur­ side before H.R. 4003 can be Members of the Senate and House have introduced legislation to taken up by the entire body. The would allow us to generate about ging quick adoption of a program ensure students attending the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in Kings House Ways and Means Commit­ $50 million a year in money that to rebuild the U.S.-flag merchant Point, N.Y. do not have to pay tuition. Both Senator John Breaux (D-La.), chairman of the Senate Merchant tee must review the legislation. would not have to be spent for marine. "It is impossible to over­ Representative Gerry Studds (D- operations and maintenance, emphasize the importance of Marine Subcommittee, and Representative Gary Ackerman (D-N.Y.), in Mass.), who serves as chairman Breaux said. "Then [we could enacting maritime revitalization whose district the academy is located, offered the legislation in response to a call within the Clinton administration's National Performance of the House Merchant Marine fund] a program that increases the egislation this year. Our Review that cadets pay for their schooling at Kings Point. number of ships that would be and Fisheries Committee, said he country's security, the survival of In presenting the Senate bill (S. 2119), Breaux noted the review did hopes this process will take place operating to approximately 75 or our industry and thousands of not remove the obligation of academy graduates to serve, if accepted, in quickly. It is anticipated that the maybe a little bit more with that American jobs are at stake," said a military reserve unit and to maintain their merchant marine license for six years after graduation. His bill is awaiting action by the Senate legislation will clear the Ways additional $50 million." the joint testimony. Science and Transportation Committee. and Means Committee by the Similar Bill We cannot and will not ac­ Commerce, Ackerman's legislation (H.R. 3293) has been referred to the House middle of this month. S. 1945 is similar to H.R. 4003 cept the proposition that some- Merchant Marine and Fisheries Committee. H.R. 4003, which was in that it proposes a 10-year, 52- low and in some way our country The AFL-CIO announced in February its opposition to students' proposed by Department of ship program to be funded will be better served by a maritime paying tuition and to funding cutbacks at Kings Point after the resolution Transportation Secretary through a tonnage tax. However, jolicy grounded on the use of was approved by the AFL-CIO's Maritime Trades Department executive Federico Pena, serves as the fund­ the fees would raise $100 million breign-flag and forcign-crewed board. %1» J* NL ing mechanism for a maritime annually or $1 billion over the ships," summarized the statement. support program which gained 0-year period. Breaux stated that Also testifying before the Lane Victory, John Brown Cancel House backing by a voteof347 to the bill does not go far enough. panel in support of the maritime 65 in a vote last November. That "We should have twice the num- revitalization program were John 'Last Convoy' Trip to Normandy The Lane Victory, one of the three wartime merchant vessels that had bill was known as H.R. 2151, or >er of ships in the program that is Snow, chairman and Chief Ex­ planned to cross the ocean to participate in the 50th anniversary of the Maritime Security and Com­ being proposed." ecutive Officer (CEO) of CSX D-Day, was forced to return to its home port of San Pedro, Calif, last petitiveness Act. Addressing the union officers Corporation (which owns Sea- month after suffering mechanical problems. Introduced by Representatives testifying before the committee, and Service); John Lillie, presi­ One week after leaving port, an oil leak was discovered in the vessel's Gerry Studds (D-Mass.), William Breaux said, "I would rather have dent of American President boilers which forced the snip to pull in to Acapulco, Mexico for emer­ Lipinski (D-Ill.), Jack Fields (R- operating ships with able bodied ompanies (the parent of gency repairs. Another problem was discovered with the unit that creates Texas) and Herbert Bateman (R- crewmen who work everyday on American President Lines); Wil- fresh water out of sea water. Originally, the "Last Convoy" to Normandy consisted of the Lane Va.), H.R. 2151 called for a ships that run every day that the iam Verdon, senior vice presiVictory, the John W. Brown and the Jeremiah O'Brien, crossing the program that would assist up to52 national security people could ent of Crowley Maritime Corp.; ocean together. In April, lack of funding forced the John Brown to cancel U.S.-flag liner vessels in the call on that would be ready and Irik Johnsen, president of Central its voyage. foreign trade. available as opposed to going to an 3ulf Lines which owns Water­ The Jeremiah O'Brien, the last of the original convoy, arrived in H.R. 4003, funds a 10-year, RRF fleet and try to get into place man Steamship; and Richard Portsmouth, England on May 21 and was preparing to take its place off $1.7 billion, 52-ship-program to ships that have b^n sitting up with Gronda, president and CEO of Pointe du Hoc, Normandy to represent the U.S. merchant marine in this month's ceremony. begin in Fiscal Year1995 through crews that we don't have." Farrell Lines. Unions Announce Support to End Export Ban on Alaskan Oil '.""'''if Five major U.S. maritime unions have announced their sup­ port for legislation that would allow Alaskan North Slope oil to be exported to foreign markets aboard U.S.-flag tankers. Two such bills are before Con­ gress to end the 21-year ban on exporting Alaskan North Slope oil. S. 1993, offered by Senators Ted Stevens (R-Alaska) and Frank Murkowski (R-Alaska) on March 25, is being considered by the Senate Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee. Similar legislation, H.R. 4369 in­ troduced by Representative Wil­ liam Thomas (R-Calif.), is before four different House committees: Foreign Affairs, Energy and Commerce, Natural Resources, and Merchant Marine and Fisheries.. News reports indicate that the Clinton administration is in favor of dropping the Alaskan oil ex­ port ban. A Department of Energy study is expected to be released this month indicating that America can export the Alaskan oil and still retain a high degree of energy independence. In a joint announcement released last month, the unions— the SIU, District No. 1-MEBA, Masters, Mates & Pilots, American Maritime Officers and District No. 4-National Maritime " . v.,-:• • • V, • ; .-Y;. . ,Y, V.'"': v Union — said they "determined that as a result of a changing market place and the resulting downturn in Alaska North Slope (ANS) production, support can be given to proposal before Con­ gress which authorizes the export of ANS oil on U.S.-flag Jones Act vessels. "Such a plan to transport the oil cargoes on U.S.-flag ships is consistent with the economic security and defense interests of the nation in that it provides employment opportunities for American citizens and ensures the nation a fleet of Americanflag tankers — vessels that are militarily useful in times of con­ Y^ • • flict," the statement concluded. Congress passed the ban against the export of Alaskan oil in 1973 immediately after the first Arab oil embargo. The reason for such legislation was to make the United States energy independent through North Slope oil and other altemative forms of energy. However, America's oil situa­ tion has changed fundamentally since then. U.S. oil supplies are ample and more diversified. With consiervation efforts in place, America's oil demands actually were lower in 1993 than in 1978 by more than one million barrels a day. Also, the country has a strategic petroleum reserve of 600 million barrels of crude oil in place. Published reports have noted that lifting the export ban would increase the domestic oil produc­ tion within the state of California. Such an increase would create an estimated 5,000 to 15,000 new jobs within the state and provide $1 billion in new tax revenues for the federal government. Also, the oil primarily would be shipped to Japan, which would reduce America's trade deficit with that nation. The present export ban expires on June 30. Congress is expected to consider the legislation by that time. 7. . �JUNE 1994 SEAFARERS LOG 5 Paul HaH Center to Conduct EPA-Htamtatmt Courses QMEDs and Other Engine Dept. Seafarers Need Refrigerant Certification by Nov. 14 The Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education and its Lundeberg School have been approved by the Environ­ mental Protection Agency (EPA) for certifying Seafarers and other personnel involved in the repair and servicing of refrigeration equipment. The center, located in Piney Point, Md., formally received EPA certification on April 29. Late last year, the federal government issued regulations (stemming from the Clean Air Act) under which anyone in­ volved in the repair and servicing of refrigeration equipment must pass an EPA-approved course by November 14,1994. This affects QMEDs and any other Seafarers who sail in the engine department and who handle reefers. When those regulations were issued, the Lundeberg School im­ mediately added the EPA outline to its curriculum and applied for approval as a certified refrigerant technician testing facility. Three Lundeberg School in­ structors, J.C. Wiegman, Eric Malzkuhn and Barney Kane, passed the EPA exam and became refrigerant certified technicians. Additionally, they are qualified to teach the use and repair of refrigerant recovery systems, ac­ cording to the new federal guidelines. The instructors also may administer the new tests. In conjunction with the Paul Hall Center's certification, all SIU halls also have been ap­ proved as certified testing facilities, provided certified Lun­ deberg School instructors con­ duct the tests. The school tentatively plans to have a mobile training team of instructors visit­ ing a number of the halls, where they will provide a two-day train­ ing seminar with hands-on use of recovery equipment and new refrigerants, study of regulations and laws and other test prepara­ tion and then administer the exams to QMEDs, electricians and other Seafarers who handle reefers. In addition, the Paul Hall Cen­ ter will offer one- and two-day technician certification pro­ grams, both separately and as part of other engine department cour­ ses. Dates for the separate tech­ nician certification programs, as well as the on-site training, will be published in upcoming issues of the Seafarers LOG. Upon successful completion of a program, a student will receive an EPA refrigeration technician certification card. This card has no expiration date and is separate from a z-card. The Seafarers Appeals Board is looking into matters regarding EPA enforcement of the new regulation (for example, who will check for the new cards, where and when will they be checked, etc.). Additional information will be published in the Seafarers LOG as it becomes available. "But in the meantime, there's plenty of time before the deadline to complete the new certifica­ tion," said Augie Tellez, vice president of the union's contract department. Four Categories The EPA has established the following categories of tech­ nician certification: Type I, for servicing small appliances (such as pantry refrigerators and water coolers); Type II, for servicing or disposing of high-pressure ap­ pliances (for example, a ship's stores refrigeration plant); Type III, for servicing or disposing of low-pressure appliances (such as the centrifugal air conditioning plants found on passenger ships); and Type IV, for servicing all types of equipment (Universal). Different courses and tests will be available to SIU members depending upon which level of technician certification they seek, and also with consideration of their previous refrigerant recovery training. The following individuals will be required to go through the cer­ tification process: • Students enrolled in the Lundeberg School's Refrigera­ tion Operation and Maintenance course. • Students enrolled in the Refrigerated Container Course. • New QMEDs. • QMEDs returning to the Lundeberg School for other specialty courses or other training who previously have not been certified. • All persons holding the refrigeration engineer endorse­ ment from the school. Upon certification, a member will receive an EPA card (includ­ ing an ID number) that will be issued through the Lundeberg School. All Seafarers involved in the repair and servicing of refrigera­ tion equipment are encouraged to obtain certification before the November deadline. Besides requiring that air con­ ditioning and refrigerant tech­ nicians obtain certification through an EPA-approved testing organization, the final rule has four other main elements which require: that technicians servicing and disposing of air conditioning or refrigeration equipment ob­ serve prescribed practices aimed at reducing emissions; that refrigerant recycling and recovery equipment, as well as refrigerant reclaimers, be cer­ tified in accordance with EPAapproved standards; that leaks of refrigerant be repaired; and that ozone-depleting refrigerant compounds in appliances, machines and other goods be removed from those items prior to their disposal. Lundeberg Schoel Brings Oil Spill Training te San Juan The Lundeberg School, part of the complex that makes up the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, in con­ junction with Crowley Towing & Transportation of Puerto Rico, recently provided on-site training in hazardous waste operations and emergency response (hazwoper) for more than 100 Seafarers in San Juan. The graduates of the program would be available to work in an emergency cleanup in the event of an oil spill. Such training is mandated by the Oil Pollution Act of 1990. The training took place during the last week of April and resulted in 131 SIU members eaming Coast Guard-approved hazwoper cer­ tification. Many of the members also took respirator fitness tests, which measure the proper size of protective equipment to be worn by an individual if he or she responds to a hazardous materials spill. Four groups of students were trained by Kenneth C. Taylor and Mark Jones of the Seafarers Ha^ Lundeberg School and by two in­ structors from Crowley. One of the Crowley instructors spoke Spanish, which proved an invalu­ able boon to many of the students. In addition, the company translated a U.S. Coast Guard emergency guide book into Spanish and made it available to the students. Most of the Seafarers who took the course work for Crowley, although approximate­ ly one dozen others sail in the deep sea division. "The course was very useful," said QMED Tony Mohammed. "I've been to Piney Point several times, but this was one course I hadn't taken. I learned a lot, and now we'll be prepared to be hired right away" in the event of an emergency. Mohammed, who graduated from the Lundeberg School trainee program in 1979, noted that the other members also were very satisfied with the training. "I think it helped our confidence, and we appreciated the instructors coming here We learned that you have to think very carefully before you act, because you never know what you may encounter." Excellent Cooperation Taylor pointed out that the hands-on training took place on Crowley equipment, which should help the students as they return to work. "We used their gear, their barge and their manuals. It was site-specific and oil-specific training, relating to their bulk petroleum operations," he said. "Overall the training was very successful, and there was lots of cooperation between the union and the company." SIU Port Agent Steve Ruiz noted that the "good attendance makes Puerto Rico much more ready for any spill here or in other parts of the Caribbean. The mem­ bers have knowledge of what to do and when to do it. I think it was fantastically successful." Mike Rampolla, manager of marine operations in San Juan for Crowley, also was pleased with the on-site course, which the company requested. "The Helping bring the hazmat course to Puerto Rico are (from left) Mike cooperation and teamwork be­ Gooby, Crowley training; Vic Subia, bilingual instructor; and Lun­ tween Crowley and the SIU was deberg School instructors Kenneth Taylor and Mark Jones. excellenL and we were very happy to bring the course to a local port area," he said. 'We put our resour­ ces together, and it enhanced [the members'] awareness. "We also were fortunate to have the course so soon after the Bemtan incident. A lot of the guys who took this course" were on the periphery of the cleanup which followed a massive oil spill in the San Juan area on January 7, when the non-union barge Morris J. Berman broke loose from its line to a tugboat, drifted onto a coral reef and spilled more than 650,000 gallons of heavy number 6 bunker oil. Seafarers Respond Immediatesly after that spill, more than 200Seafarers (many of them working for Crowley) turned to in swift cleanup opera­ tions which recovered much of the oil and allowed San Juan Har­ bor to remain open. Also, the Seafarers-crewed Caribbean Responder, an oil spill response vessel operated by Dyn Marine, played a key role in the oil recovery and containment effort. Instructor Jones provided the photos accompanying this article. W' ii. •li-" // More than 100 Seafarers, including those pictured above, earned hazmat certification in San Juan after passing a course conducted by the Lundeberg School and Crowley. t ; �6 SEAFARERS LOG Nation Pays its Respects To America's Mariners V' i-d': "iiiiy JUNE 1994 Honoring those American chant marine and the U.S, Nav 1775 also is included in the seafarers who lost their lives in throughout American history— design in recognition of the early service to their country seemed during the course of World War contributions of the U.S. mer­ especially meaningful this year, II when the merchant marine chant marine to the nation's his­ considering the upcoming hunted and attacked by Nazi tory. "America's merchant marine celebration of the 50th anniver­ boats and Japanese kamikaze fighters, transported tons of cargo and civilian seafarers have put sary of the D-Day invasion. Those were the sentiments of to the Atlantic and Pacific areas themselves at risk to support our many Seafarers and SIU officials of operations wd paid a very high armed forces throughout our his­ who last month took part in Na­ price. tory," Herberger said. A new flag designed to honor America's civilian seafarers was iinSenator Strom Thurmond, veiled at one of the memorial services conducted in Washington. More recently, the coopera­ tional Maritime Day servicds at various ports throughout the tion was evident in the Persia'n ranking Republican member on United States. Gulf War, where the U.S. mer­ the Senate Armed Services Com­ Across the country. Maritime chant marine delivered 95 percent mittee, himself a decorated Day events were conducted, not of all cargo to the Middle Has veteran of World War II, talked only to remember those who died (and where seven mariners, in about the largest military opera­ on the beaches of Nonnandy, or eluding Seafarers, gave their tion—D-Day—and how it could even in World War II alone, but lives) and as part of the never have been possible without also to remember all the seafaring humanitarian efforts in Somalia, the merchant marine. "The men and women who answered where 37 ships carried a million patriotism, dedication and the call from their nation in times tons of cargo to that strife-torn courage of those young men and of war and peace. country as part of Operation Re women helped win the war" for the Allies, he said. Three different services took store Hope. Paul Hall Center students salute the flag during the playing of the )lace in the Washington area in National Anthem at the Navy Memorial ceremony. A letter was read from Senator Seafarers Honored ate May, while others were con­ Barbara Mikulski (D-Md.), But Maritime Day was more ducted in Mobile, Ala., San Fran­ Raymond Maule, Jim Peterson, than a memorial to the dead. Also remembering the ultimate Mark cisco, New York and Algonac, Roman, Michael sacrifices made by members of recognized were the living heroes Mich. Stringer, Daniel Williams, the merchant marine, men like the merchant marine. Capt. George Auger, At the U.S. Navy Yard m of James AlTimothy Brown, president of the Washington, a wreath-laying Angus "Red" Campbell, former Masters, Mates & Pilots, spoke sohrooks, Christopher Hanshe, vice president, who sailed on ceremony and memorial service SIU Hughey, Christopher a Liberty ship during World War about the necessity of keeping a Mark marked the 62nd observance of Mattair, Roland Moolenaar, strong U.S.-flag fleet and of the National Maritime Day. Vice Ad­ II, and men like the three mariners industry rededicating itself to en­ Gregory Reynolds, Melvin Government Ser­ miral Michael P. Kalleres, com­ (including SIU member and Carlos Sanchez. Ricardo suring passage of a maritime Rivera vices Division mander of the Military Sealift In Mobile, Ala., Mayor revitalization bill. Sanchez) from the USNSAndrew Command, and the Honorable J. Michael C. Dow, on behalf of the Michael Murphy, vice president Steven S. Honigman, general Higgins who were instrumental of government affairs for citizens of Mobile and the mem­ counsel from the Department of in fighting a fire aboard the Presi­ American President lines, notec bers of the Mobile City Council, Washington last month. the Navy, spoke about the fiill dent At another service . in that this countiy is at a turning poini proclaimed May 20,1994 as Mer­ cooperation between the merWashington, this one sponsored in its maritime history. "We musi chant Marine Memorial Service Plney Point trainee James Atwell by the Maritime Administration, recognize the contributions of flie Day. Members of the SIU were (class 524) presents an SIU white Maritime Administrator Albert J. last," he saitl "and ask for prayers iresent as flower wreaths were cap to Vice Admiral Michael P. Kal­ Herberger unveiled a new flag and support in enacting" maritime aid at the foot of the granite leres aboard the USNS Stalwart. memorial to the merchant marine. which is designed to honor revitalization legislation. Seafarers also participated in America's civilian seafarers who New Plaque Unveiled the annual dinner recognizing tic voyage by a steamship, the SS have supported the nation's A new plaque was unveiled at Maritime Memorial Day at the Savannah, on May 22, 1819, as Mined forces in times of war and he third Washington Maritime National Maritime Day and re­ carried its commerce in Day ceremony. The U.S. Mer­ Seamen's Church Institute in quested the president to issue a New York. Kendell Chen, presi­ peacetime. chant Marine-U.S. Navy Armed proclamation annually in obser-^ Designed by the U.S. Army's Guard relief, made of bronze and dent of Energy Transportation vance of that day. Corp., was the keynote speaker. Institute of Heraldry, the key depicting a merchant ship under During World War II alone, Galley gang members cooked components of the flag are an attack on the famed Murmansk 733 American vessels were sunk and served the dinner. eagle, perched on a red, white and lun, honors the heroic service of and nearly 7,000 merchant To promote public awareness blue shield, and a fouled anchor. the merchant marine and the of America's maritime heritage. seamen and officers were lost as Following the benediction, Robert The eagle's wing tips follow the armed guard in World War 11. Elliott, trainee class 542, presents contour of the U.S. merchant Designed by Robert Lamb, a U S. Congress in 1933 designated die a result of enemy action and other an SIU cap to Maritime Administra­ marine em()lem below the words Merchant Marine Academy anniversary of the first transatlan- war-related causes. tor Alt)ert J. Herberger. In Peace and War." The year graduate and veteran of World iVar II and the Murmansk Run, it was unveiled by Maritime Ad­ ministrator Herberger, SIU Presi­ dent Michael Sacco, SIU xecutive Vice President Joseph Sacco, Rear Admiral William Thompson (USN-Ret.) and Char­ es Lloyd, chairman of the U.S. ^avy Armed Guard World War II Veterans. 'In the face of mortal danger, our crews kept returning to sea to deliver the goods," Michael A good-sized crowd gathers to watch the unveiling of the new U.S. Sacco said prior to the unveiling. "I Merchant Marine-U.S. Armed Guard plaque in the nation's capital. suggest that the emphasis on his:ory we see today, along with what SIU President Michael Sacco (second from right) joins Maritime will take place next week in Nor­ Administrator Albert Herberger in laying ceremonial wreaths for the mandy, should serve two purposes. U.S. merchant marine and Navy Armed Guard at the Navy Memorial One is to honor those who served. in Washington. The other is to remind us of the importance of a strong U.S. mer­ chant fleet—not just in the past, but also today and tomorrow." Thirty students from the Paul all Center for Maritime Train­ ing and Education served as an lonor guard at all three events in Washington. They are: James Atwell, Jon Bednarczyk, Chad unningham, Robert Elliott, Frederick Baker, Lawrence Casey, Loren Dekett, Teddy Del Rosario, Brian DeMeritt, Flanking a new bronze relief which honors the merchant marine and Bryan Garibaldi, Kenrick armed guard are (from left) SIU Executive Vice President Joseph Gaton, Tracy Grant, Gerald Sacco, Maritime Administrator Albert J. Herberger, Navy Armed SIU Retiree Lee DeParlier (left) and Recertified Steward Robert Scott Hartman, Robert Hendershott, Guard Veterans Chairman Charles Lloyd and Retired Navy Rear Neale Hutson, Jermaine Love, Admiral William Thompson. display the Seafarers banner in Mobile. �JUNE 1994 HE REVISED CHIEF cook T program at the Paul Hall Cen­ ter for Maritime Training has not SEAFARERS LOG 7 thing that I have leamed so far. Leaming the methods, cooking terminology and proper presenta­ tion and appearance of foods has been incredible," she added. Har­ ris joined the union in 1992 in the port of Wilmington, Calif. Besides perfecting her culi­ nary abilities, Harris is a United Airlines flight attendant who decided to join the Seafarers so she could have a second career upon her upcoming retirement from the airline industry. She uses her annual leave and vacation time to upgrade and sail for the SIU. Mickie Frederick, who joined the union in 1985 in the port of Honolulu and sailed on the Americain Hawaii Cmises pas­ senger vessels as a bartender before going to work in the gal­ ley, was so enthusiastic about the Neville Monteith (left) and Tom Kelly put their training to work as they begin preparations for a luncheon. class that she bought her own computer to practice the skills taught in the program. "My favorite aspect of'the course has been leaming how to plan menus and use spread sheets on a computer. I still have a lot to leam, but I feel that it will all pay off when I am sailing," Frederick noted. only whetted the appetites of the 11 upgraders taking the course, it also has increased their hunger for more leaming. "This course is such an in­ credible leaming experience. As a cook, just leaming a recipe does not mean you will know how to prepare it. We are leaming the methods and techniques that are required to make wonderful dishes," stated Saundra Leo­ nard, who recently sailed aboard ih& Buffalo Soldier. "The course has really trig­ gered a thirst for more knowledge, and I plan on retuming in the future," Amy Rethom told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG. "Not only have the instractors been excellent, but I think we have also learned from one another," she added. Rethorn sails aboard the Alton Belle II Riverboat Casino in Alton, 111. The new chief cook pilot course was created to instmct Seafarers seeking a chief cook en­ dorsement on the more difficult aspects of the art of cooking. This is done through the use of text books, lectures, practical lab work and weekly quizzes. Those enrolled in the new course altemate weekly between the Lundeberg School's state-ofthe-art lecture/demonstration gal­ ley and the facility's production gdley. The lessons are designed so that each learning session depends in part on the Imowledge instructor Don Yaney (standing, left) answers Tim Laird's (far right) question conceming cheese sauce. and skills acquired during the pre­ vious lesson. Some of the topics covered in­ clude cooking methods, season­ ings and flavorings, recipe and menu planning, stocks, sauces and soups, meat and game, poultry, seafood, starches, vegetables, breakfasts, salads, sandwiches and hors d'oeuvres. Sauces Flavor Course "So far, leaming sauces has been my favorite part of this course because if you can come up with a really good sauce, you can create anything," Sheila Pennell noted. Pennell was the first member from the Alton Belle II Riverboat Casino to attend Working on a new recipe she learned in class, chief cook upgrader Sheila Pennell slices potatoes. steward department upgrading courses last fall and has retumed to attend the special pilot course. Several of Pennell's class­ mates echoed her sentiments conceming the sauce section of the course. Chico Lopez, a member of the SIU's Government Services Division which sails Military Sealift Command-Pacific Fleet vessels, said, "I really enjoyed learning the different mother sauces. It is a wonderful techni­ que to be^i^^le to create six or seven diffraent sauces in minutes from a pre-prepared base. It will Mickie Frederick (right) puts flounder on a baking sheet while be very helpful to me as chief Marjorie Harris (left) cuts green peppers for a side dish. cook aboard a ship." Jesse James, who joined the union as a 1966 graduate of the Andrew Furuseth Training School in New Orleans, said of the sauce system, "It will be a great technique to use on the ships." Some of the steward depart­ ment upgraders felt that leaming to prepare good sauces went beyond just technique. "It is not just a sauce that we are leaming... it is a work of art that we are leaming to create. It is beautiful," noted Marjorie Har­ Cutting up potatoes for the salad Jesse James (left) asks a question following a culinaiy arts lecture at ris. bar at Piney Point is Don Whitlow, the Paul Hall Center while fellow upgrader Henry Wnght Jr. listens. "I really have enjoyed every- y/i'S A'. Valuable at^ Other upgrading steward department members found the nutritional aspects of the program to be the most valuable lesson leamed thus far. "I feel that it will benefit me, the crewmembers on the ships as well as the entire maritime in­ dustry to have training on the cooking of good and nutritional foods," said Neville Monteith, who joined the SIU in 1980 in the port of San Francisco and sailed on the maiden voyage of the SS Independence. "I tmly found it useful toknow how to cook with less salt and low fat," he added. Tim Laird, who joined the union five years ago in the port of Honolulu, said,."I have mostly enjoyed leaming the seasoning and nutrition parts of the course. I think it is great to have the time in the lab to leam the different methods of cooking. I have leamed excellent skills here, such as why things work—not just the recipies but the theories behind it all," said Laird. Retuming to the Lundeberg School for the second time since he joined ihe union in 1987, Henry Wright Jr. said he will continue to retum to Piney Point for upgrading. "I love this course because there are so many skills to leam. When I am finished with this chief cook program, I plan to continue coming back to keep leaming," Wright noted. Don Whitlow, who sails from the port of Seattle, said, "This class is great. I have been leaming everything that I have ever wanted to about cooking, and we aren't even done yet." Whitlow joined the Seafarers 26 years ago in the port of San Francisco. Instmctors Don Yaney and Ed White, who teach the pilot course, both noted the special camaraderie among the classmates. "This is a wonderful group. They all have very positive at­ titudes and are very willing to leam. There is a genuine love among them as a group," stated Yaney. White added, "They are a real­ ly good class with a tme love of die culinary field." - '^ • •y 'J '• • *' ' •• '.k.. ' r '-'A ' �8 - 'r JUNE 1994 SEAFARERS LOG Six sru Men Climb to Top Dec^ Dept. Rung; Class Encourages Other Members to Upgrade The SIU's newest class of recertified bosuns graduated at the May membership meeting at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Inocencio Desaville, Henry Gable, Francis (Earl) Henson, Billy Hill, David Murray and Jimmy Ocot completed the highest curriculum available to Seafarers who sail in the deck department. At the graduation ceremony, each recertified bosun took a turn at the podium to address the other upgraders, trainees, officials and guests at the meeting. Although they said it in different ways, the bosuns all emphasized the oppor tunity for advancement that exists for each SIU member. "You people coming into the union have a great future,, wit great opportunities," stated Hen son, who sails from the port o: San Francisco. "When I see the trainees, I see myself years ago and I remember the many people who helped me. We have a great union. Take advantage of your chances. Gable, a second-generation Seafarer who graduated from the trainee program 23 years ago said, "It's up to you to get what you want Out of your career Remember that the school is here to help you learn, and you are part The most recent class of bosuns to complete the recertification program are (from left) Henry Gable, of a strong union. Inocencio Desaville, David Murray, Billy Hill, John Smith (instructor), Jimmy Ocut and Earl Henson. The Paul Hall Center and its Seafarers Harry Lundeberg week course, which covers a wide School of Seamanship are vital to range of topics. They receiver any Seafarer who is serious abou training in the Lundeberg his or her work, added Hill, him­ School's modem shiphandling self a third-generation SlU mem­ simulator; earned certification in ber. "I'm very proud of this union first aid, CPR and firefighting and this school," he said. procedures; studied communica­ Without the school, there's no tions principles and learning tech­ way we could get the training we niques; reviewed and practiced need. 1 hope i^l of you trainees sedift operations, including un­ will come back and upgrade. derway replenishment, damage control and more; and took part in Comprehensive Course other deck-skill exercises, such as Hill and his classmates suc­ ine-splicing. Billy Hill dons protective gear during cessfully completed the fivefirefighting training. Additionally, the new recer­ tified bosuns met for questionand-answer sessions with representatives from each of the union's departments.They spoke Inocencio Desaville examines breathing apparatus in firefighting class. with officials from the SIU's colective bargaining department; governmental affairs department; welfare, vacation, training and lension funds; and Seafarers LOG. They also traveled to SIU [leadquarters in Camp Springs, Vld. and to AFL-CIO head­ quarters in Washington, where they spoke with Maritime Trades department Executive Secretaryreasurer Frank Pecquex about Jimmy Ocot (right) has blood pressure checked by Instructor Jim Shaffer. cey legislative issues which afect the maritime industry. Henry Gable (left) and Earl Henson practice CPR on a dummy. Value of Upgrading Murray, a Georgia native who oined the union in 1978 in New York, vowed to encourajge his shipmates to upgrade at the Paul «all Center. "I'll definitely spread the word about the value of upgrading," he said. "I'm just thankful to have had thechance to ;o through the recertification pro­ gram." Similarly, Jimmy Ocot, who was a member of the SIU's in­ dustrial division, the United In­ dustrial Workers, prior to joining he Seafarers in 1979 in New York, expressed appreciation for laving the opportunity to take upgrading courses that help him lerform his shipboard duties with letter efficiency. "The instructors are very, very helpful and the courses are extremely worthwhile," said the native of le Philippines. Desaville, also bom in the Philippines, took a practical look at the recertification course and at upgrading in general. "The more sldlls you learn, the more your earning power increases," he said. "I'm thankful that we have these courses and that we have such knowledgeable instmctors." Henry Gable first came to the Lundeberg School in 1971, when he graduated as a trainee. He stressed the importance of advancement, David Murray, speaking during the May membership meeting, says he will advise shipmates to upgrade at Piney Point. Billy Hill (right) helps outfit a classmate in protective clothing. �'y^- •. w 'ii:- .'fi.' JUNE 1994 SEAFARERS LOG ••-r 9 -.yc'-' vi. . -H PortnHs of Ihe 7 SUf Scholaish^ Whmeis Seven students will college-bound next fall, thanks in part to the Seafarers awarded to children of Seafarers. Awards were granted for both two- and four-year Welfare Plan's scholarship program for SIU members and their dependents. (See story institutions o^gher learning. on page 2.) ^ Below are brief descriptions of the backgrounds and goals of each of the 1994 Three of this year's scholarships were reserved for SIU members; four were Seafarers scholarship winners. JOSEPH JOHN 1UR0CY ti JOSEPH JOHN TUROCY, 29, was awarded a four-year scholar­ ship for $15,000. The deep sea mem­ ber began his shipping career in Honolulu in 1989 when he joined American Hawaii Cruises' SS Inde­ pendence as a bellman. Six months later he was promoted to third steward and served in that capacity for one year. In December 1990, Seafarer Turocy switched to the deck depart­ ment and passed the able bodied seaman exam a year later. Since then, he has been sailing from the' port of New York aboard Sea-Land, Sheridan Transportation, Amsea and Ogden Marine vessels. He ex­ pects to sign off his current vessel, the OMI Sacramento, this month. In the five years that he has been an SIU member, Turocy believes he is "fortunate enough to have worked on a wide variety of ships in that time."The most rewarding aspect of going to sea for the Pittsburgh na­ tive is the opportunity to travel and experience other cultures. Turocy attended Richard Stock­ ton College last fall as a nonmatriculat^ student and did very well. He would like to continue there, majoring in either history or EngUshandstructuringhis time so that he can continue to ship out half of the year. LAWRENCE McNUTT, 24, plans to attend a community college near his home in Des Moines, Wash, and then transfer to the University of Washington after completing his associate's degree, with an eye, eventually, to attending medical school and specializing in psychiatry. Because of many hardships he faced while growing up. Brother McNutt would like to have a career "where I can make a positive impact on other peoples' lives." He wants to work with children from broken homes and help them put their lives together. Following high school, McNutT had hoped to go to college, but the financial means were not there. He struggled to make ends meet until he heard about the trainee pro­ gram at Piney Point. He was ac­ cepted into the program in 1990 and started sailing in the steward depart­ ment during the Persian Gulf war. Since joining the union three-and-ahalf years ago, he has since upgraded to chief cook and chief steward. His goal has alwaysbeen to save enough money to go back to school, and ^s scholarship is a start for Brother McNutt. MICHAEL DEAN MILLER, 29, was bom and raised in the Philip­ pines. His father was an American foreign correspondent there, and the family moved to the United States in 1977. ^ Throug^i high school in Rosebur^ Ore., Miller involved himself in various sports and other organizations. After graduating from high school, he attended Umpqua Conununity College for two years. He then continued his studies at the University of Oregon. In 1987 he took a course at Meritt Davis Business College to receive a diploma in computer ap­ plications management. Six months after graduation, he went into busi­ ness as an insurance agent provid­ ing supplemental insurance to federal employees. Upon closing his business in 1989, he worked on fishing boats in Alaska and Seattle, where he learned about the SIU. Brother Miller graduated from the trainee program at Piney Point in 1990 at the top of his class. He has returned twice to upgrade his skills: for his assistant cook and 2nd cook/baker endorsements. Brother Miller's immediate goals are to obtain his chief cook's endorsement. Miller will be attending Western Culinary Institute in Oregon or Scottsdale Culinary Institute in Arizona in the fall, with the goal of becoming a professional chef. ALANNA MARIE BRAGG, 17, has, until recently, wanted to pursue a career as a lawyer. But because of her ability to write well, combined with her personality, she now feels she may be better suited to com­ munications. She hopes to attend Temple University in Philadelphia, Pa. to fulfill her goals. Alanna entered Boston Latin School in Boston, Mass. as a seventh grader with an outstanding academic record. She not only has held her own in this very competi­ tive school, but has also made con­ tributions to the school conununity. She has been a member of the pep squad for five years and now serves as its captain. She has dedicated countless hours to the African Cultural Society, the Hispanic Cultural Society, the Gospel Choir, the Register(a literary magazine),Argo (the school newspaper) and the stu­ dent council. Alanna has further developed her skills through employment and other activities. For three years, she served as peer leader at "a health center which "gave me a chance to not only educate myself, but also other teens ... it also gave me a chance to reach out to young adults and help them face the many problems they ran into." Alanna is the daughter of Col­ leen Brennan and William Bragg. Bragg has been an SIU member since 1980, sailing deep sea, most recently aboard the Sea-Land Ex­ plorer. I enjoyed writing for the campus newspaper so much that / would like to explore an opportunity in the field of journalism. yy LAWRENCE McNUH ''t would like to have a career where I can make a positive im­ pact on other peoples' lives.'yy MICHAEL DEAN MILLER a To better achieve my goals, I wish to obtain a solid understanding of the skills needed to become a professional chef.'• yy TUROCY McNUTT MILLER t ALANNA MARIE BRAGG a ^Despite my economic problems, it was always my dream to fur­ ther my education. yy •.M' .'.•liY"-* '.M' BRAGG JV AMY RENE£ BELOTE Nothing would please me more than to continue participating in an instructive process, this time as the teacher." ti "I have set my goals [becoming a lawyer] high, but I am confi­ dent that I will succeed at them." BENISE KAY MBBRE 1 want to teach history to eager minds who share my passion for this subject., either as ah^h yy school teacher or college professor. a AMY RENEi BELOTE, 17, will graduate this month from Cape Henlopen High School in Lewes, Del. Her goal is to major in English and Spanish education at Towson (Md.) State University, the Univer­ sity of Delaware or York College of Pennsylvania. An excellent student, motivated by personal goals. Amy earned su­ perior grades in high school and also was involved in many honors and extracurricular activities—in­ cluding community clubs, athletics and music. She was selected Out­ standing English Student as well as Outstanding Spanish Student during her high school years, and that spurred her interest in those areas. Following graduation from col­ lege, Amy Belote hopes to teach English, perhaps in a primarily Spanish-speaking high school. During her 17 years. Amy believes she has been influenced and encouraged by many of her teachers. "Nothing would please me more," she stated in her scholarship application, "than to continue par­ ticipating in this instructive process, except this time I want to be the teacher." Amy is the daughter of Clare and Richard Belote. ^chard joined the inland division of the SIU in 1977 and sails as a tankerman, presently aboard the Interstate #29, operated by Maritrans. DAWN MARIE MARTIN, 18, cur­ rently is a freshman at the Univer­ sity of Southwestern Lousiana. She is studying pre-law with a minor in English and French, and would like to continue there with her scholar­ ship winnings and and then goon to Tulane Law School. Dawn would like to become a defendant lawyer "because it would be an incredible challenge. Being a lawyer is a dif­ ficult job to undertake; however, knowing that I have defended a person's rights would be rewarding enough." Besides being a full-time stu­ dent, Dawn does community work part-time. She has assisted senior citizens who are unable to shop for themselves, and has taken part in fund-raising efforts of the Mus­ cular Dystrophy Association. At Andrew Jackson High School in Chalmette, La., Dawn maintained a demanding schedule of classes, including three at the honors level, and enjoyed an active and productive membership in various language and service clubs. Her stepfaAer, John Wallace Bllich, sails in the inland division, presently as a tugboat operator for Crescent Towing Company. DENISE KAY MOORE, 18, graduates this month from Pam­ lico County High School in Bayboro, N.C. In high school, Denise became involved in her school's champion­ ship quiz bowl team and by her sophomore year, she was a member of the starting team; during her senior year she. was captain. Her leadership and encouragement pushed her team to win many tour­ naments and student scholarships. Her other great passion in high school was social studies. It was during a United States history course in her junior year that she first realized she wanted to study history in college with the goal of teaching that subject (either at the high school or college level) to "eager minds whoshare my passion for the subject." Denise actively participates in the education and music outreach of her church and has taken on much responsibility while working parttime in a drycleaning store during the school year and managing a seafood office during the summer. Having lived her whole life in North Carolina, Denise hopes to continue her education there, either at the University of North Carolina, at Chapel Hill or Greensboro, or Campbell University in Buies Creek. Denise is the stepdaughter of Russell Hudson, an inland member since 1981. He currently sails aboard the Express Marine Inc.'s tug Russell B. Murray. .W,u. , .'.r .-4 • BELOTE MARTIN MOORE /"'l • �10 JUNE 1994 SEAFARERS LOG UnkMis Stand^nn Against Taxing HeaiHi Care Benefits ; - 'i->• I ' ' "V • V r^:; •iM iiii • As House and Senate commit­ tees in mid-May took up health care legislation for the first time, the SIU joined with the AFL-CIO and its affiliated unions in strenuously voicing continued opposition to any proposal'which would make he^th care beneifits taxable income. The federation of U.S. trade unions also reaffirmed its support of an employer mandate (requiring all employers to provide hedth in­ surance for their employees) as an Seafarers recently took part In a health care reform rally in Santa equitable funding mechanism for Monica, Calif., sponsored by the state AFL-CIO. Pictured above (standing, from left) are SIU members J. Cox and Isaac Givens, health care reform. Representative Tony Armstrong of the SlU-affiliated United Industrial "All Americans should be ade­ Workers (UIW), SIU Port Agent George Tricker, Seafarer D. Gordian, quately covered, benefits shouk UIW Representative Ruth Fernandez, Bosun Wilfredo Acevedo and remain untaxed and al ILU member G. Back, Kneeling (from left) are Seafarers Herbert Americans, including business Rodriguez and Vance Battle. owners, should be required to do their fair share to alleviate the reform. Many favor the employer That is because many medical crisis which now confronts this mandate called for in President bills are padded to m^e up for nation," SIU President Michael Clinton's Health Security Act treatment received by uninsured Sacco said in a letter to Senate (and supported by labor), which patients who cannot pay their Finance Committee Chairman would require employers to pay bills—particularly emergency Daniel Patrick Moynihan (D- for at least 80 percent of their room treatment, which generally N.Y.), whose committee has employees' medical benefits. is veiy expensive. begun hearings on health care One of the contentions in sup­ Some business groups have reform. "As long as some com­ port of the employer mandate is panies are able to evade any that it would end the current prac­ launched massive lobbying cam­ responsibility for health care, tice of working-class families and paigns against the employer manthere will be a powerful incentive businesses that provide medical date, which has led to the for even the most conscientious benefits, shouldering more and consideration of taxing benefits an alternate means of fund­ employer to follow suit." more of the nation's skyrocketing as ing. Yet many of the same elected One other Senate committee health care costs. The U.S. medi­ representatives who oppose the (Labor and Human Resources) cal inflation rate is growing at 11 employer mandate also have and three House committees percent annually, and millions of stated they are against new taxes. (Ways and Means, Energy and workers have had to forego wage Commerce, and Education and increases simply to maintain their "I don't know how we get to Labor) have begun work on the medical benefits. universal coverage without initial development of a health At the same time, businesses employer mandate," said Health care bill. which provide health care and Human Services Secretary Congress will return from coverage are in some ways at a Donna Shalala in a recent meet­ Memorial Day recess in mid- competitive disadvantage with ing with the AFL-CIO executive June, and administration and those who skirt such costs by council, of which Sacco is a mem­ Capitol Hill officials reportedly denying benefits to their ber. "The employer mandate is the fairest way to do it . . . and have set July 1 as the date for employees. In any case, trade unions— there needs to be fairness in the getting bills out of committee and which typically secure excellent system." onto the congressional floors. The Health Security Act calls While there is growing bipar­ jenefits for their members—say for no taxes on employer-paid they have paid for health care tisan support for the ideal of coverage not only for their mem­ benefits. After 10 years, only universal coverage, lawmakers differ sharply on how to fund bers, but also for the tens of mil- benefits which exceed the man­ comprehensive health care ions of uninsured Americans. dated coverage would be taxed. Admiral George H, NRHer Dies; Was Fighter for Merchant Ships George H. Miller, a retired U.S. Navy rear admiral who was a tire­ less supporter and activist in behalf of a strong American-flag merchant marine, died of pneumonia at the age of 83. Known widely for his persistent promotion of measures to assure the nation of an appropriate level of seapower. Admiral Miller regarded U.S.-flag merchant ships as a vital component of the national defense. Admiral Miller was awarded the Navy Cross for extraordinary heroism in his role during World War II as damage control officer of the light cruiser U.S.S. Houston, which suffered two crippling hits by Japanese aerial torpedoes off Formosa in October 1944. With the Houston dead in the water, heeling to starboard and dangerously close to capsizing in heavy seas, the order was given to abandon ship. As damage control officer, then-Commander Miller insisted on staying aboard the heavily flooded ship with a skeleton damage control team to keep the stricken vessel afloat while repairs were made and assis­ tance could be summoned for the return to port. The stiiring account of Admiral Miller's action aboard the ship was Adm. George H. Miller published in 1985 by the Naval In­ stitute Press in a book, "The Battle to Save the Houston." During the Korean War, Ad­ miral MiUer served as a plans of­ ficer for the American forces landings in Inchon in 1950. Sub­ sequently, he held several sea com­ mands and strategic planning assignments, including the Trident Strategic Nuclear Missile Program. He retired from the Navy in 1972. He was then appointed as special assistant to the Maritime Ad­ ministrator by Assistant Secretary of Commerce Andrew Gibson, where he remained until 1975, when he began activity as a consult­ ant, speaker and writer pn issues of strategic importance to the national security. Admiral Miller and Paul Hall, late president of the SIU, main­ tained a common interest in the role of merchant shipping in national defense and often appeared together in various forums con­ sidering the subject. Herbert Brand, chairman of the Transportation Institute, a longtime friend of Admiral Miller who worked with him on many projects to promote U.S. seapower, said that "there was no one to match Admiral Miller's determination to convince the Defense Department, the Con­ gress and the executive branch of government that the merchant marine is an indispensable element of Naval strength. And he always main­ tained that the only effective reserve fleet would be an active, healthy U.S. merchant marine." Admiral Miller is survived by his wife Margaret Mason Miller, with whom he lived in Annapolis, Md.; three children from a previous marriage; Susan Talley of St. Louis, Marthaarm Fentoii of Qriental, N.C., George H. Miller Jr. of Honey Beach, Miss.; and six grandchildren. Johnny Johnston stands last year at the pier in Piney Point, Md. next to the Manitou., whicb he painstakingly restored. Seafarers Mourn Death Of Johnny Johnston, Who Restored Manitou Lloyd S. "Johnny" Johnston, a charter member of theSIU and a former patrolman, passed away April 23 due to natural causes. He was 84. Born in Indiana in 1909, Brother Johnston joined the Se^arers in 1938 in the port of New Orleans. He sailed in the deck department until the late 1940s, when he worked as a union patrolman and organizer in New York and New Orleans. Eventually he retumed to sailing. He retired in 1974. Johnston spent much of the last four years voluntarily res­ toring the yawl Manitou at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Once used by President John F. Kennedy, the Manitou has been part of the Lundeberg School's floating museum since 1968, when the school pur­ chased it from the Defense Department Surplus Sales Agency in a closed bid. When Johnston started res­ toring the boat, "it was in pretty bad shape," he said last year in an interview with the Seafarers LOG. "I had the time and the interest, so I volunteered to get her back in shape. ... I have enjoyed every day that I have spent on her." Two years ago, after finish­ ing extensive research, he wrote a lengthy paper about the vessel's storied past, complete with details of many of the ship's races and owners. The excellent condition of the sailing craft is Brother Johnston's legacy. "You can't even tell it was damaged," he proudly stated after completing the restoration. "With the help of the marina personnel, she is in ship-shape." Brother Johnston was buried at the Seafarers Haven cemetery in Valley Lee, Md., near the Paul Hall Center. Funeral services for Brother Johnston took pli place at Seafarers Haven in Valley Lee, Md., near the Paul Hall Center. �•J •••.. '-0' JUNE 1994 $EAFARENSLOG 11 -V' Seafarers Carried Allied War Effort to Normandy Continued from page 3 planes dropped 3,000 tons on shore defenses. The first troops began landing at 6:30 a.m. "I was on a Waterman ship, and we went in the morning," said Padu. "There was a Liberty ship behind us. It hit a mine. When I looked back, all I saw was a big, black cloud. Only one person was saved from that ship." By nightfall, despite thousands of casualties, the five waterbome assault divisions were firmly ashore. Within the next five days, one solid Allied front had been established. Starckx, who also sailed as bosun, remembered the scene as "very active. I was bosun on the Great Isaac, a seagoing tug, and we towed 11 Phoenix units and one block-ship to Normandy. It was a hurry-up operation and we were sailing in a blackout, and we collided with a Liberty ship. For­ tunately, all the damage was above the water line." After the first landings, six weeks of fierce fighting ensued. But it was simply a question of time before the Allies prevailed. Liberty Ships Many Seafarers also took part in a much less-publicized aspect of the Normandy operations. Approximately 1,000 merchant mariners volunteered to sail 32 American ships to the beaches— ships that were scut­ tled to make the emergency breakwater, the "miracle har­ bor" along the Normandy coast, a decoy of sorts. Three SlU-crewed Liberty ships—the Matr W. Ransom, Ben­ jamin Contee and James W. Mar­ shall—among the breakwater fleet. As noted by retired SIU his­ torical director John Bunker, himself a Seafarer during World War n, the fact that the break­ water fleet did not face the an­ ticipated harsh reaction from the Germans "did not detract one whit from the courage of the seamen who volunteered for this extremely dangerous mission." :ii V •S s' • 'v ti-.v ! A-' b'" AP/Wide World Photos The channel waters are black with shipping as reinforcements and supplies are sent ashore for the conquest of the Cherbourg Peninsula. In the aftermath of the in­ goods, never shying from danger. vasion, Seafarers were an integral Abraham Aragones, a retired part of the stipply shuttle between chief steward who sailed the U.K. and Normandy and, throughout the war, summed up the later, to French and Belgian ports. patriotism shown by him and his "There were so many mines, fellow Seafarers when he said, "It but it was a job that had to be was very important to me to serve done," Starckx said. "You know, my country during the war. We my son was bom on May 13,1944 sometimes were easy targets, and it and I left on May 15. I didn't was frightening. But I would do it return until January of 1945. again." Lee de Parlier, another Believe me, no one got much steward department retiree who sleep during those months." One hundred and fifty vessels sailed in several theaters during were assigned to this shuttle duty, World War H, added that in addi­ AP/Wlde Worid Photos which involved substantial risk. tion to commemorating the sucof n Dav and iilrimatelv of With full equipment from landing craft, American assault troops move For example, the SlU-crewed iTSh'c onto a northem beachhead. In the background, the harbor Is filled with Colin Kelly stmck a mine and the entire war effort, this month s sank in the channel during those ceremonies also should honor those who perished during the operations. But at Normandy, just as in war. "I was fortunate to survive, every other mission of World but many Seafarers made the ul­ War II, Seafarers answered their timate sacrifice. We should be country's call and delivered the grateful to all of them." a.® •••li •'.f# AP/Wide World Photos Many types of landing craft are used to shuttle supplies to Normandy beachheads for troops fighting their way inland. This photo was taken four days after D-Day. '••i Photo courtesy of MarAd Standing before a memorial to the more than 1,200 Seafarers who lost their lives to enemy toipedoes and Geman U-boats during WWII, retired Seafarer Al Padu recalls his sailing days under hre. L'stening Hea^ seas lash at the breakwater of merchant ships scuttled a 9 �'[''BBBM _. _ II, ' ' r r'-.,*.J t '• #"• - -,* •'r::\ - .'.I?-'/' 12 SEAFASBRSLOG JUNE 1994 2' -.2^ JUNE 1994 SEAFARERS LUG Wm 4-• V.-'v,'-: 13 vv' Barker Delivers 1994 Paul Hall Lecture , J'-rV' A Broad Approach Is Needed te Rebuild U.S. Fleet, Says Respected Ship Operater - • :::a IS WBBMi 'BMSM'"' , I•? !®- #111 ,\v'. •1 tr, .m. '•'• "-• * .,'' '"'• r'^v' I: • •" Chairman of Interlake Steamship Holding Company and principal owner of the Mormac Marine Group, Inc. James R. Barker, urged close to 140 representatives of govemment, the shipping industry, academia and maritime labor to develop comprehensive reforms necessary to build a "stronger and better U.S. merchaht marine." private investment in commercial vessels. Be­ Making govemment part of the solution, not OR THE UNITED STATES to retain a tween 1975 and 1986, the number of oceangoing part of the problem. Govemment relates to the United States-flag commercial merchant roll-on/roll-off ships in the world increased from maritime industry in two ways—^it's both a cus­ fleet beyond the next few years, our leaders 141 to 751. Of these, 35 were U.S.-flag. By 1990, tomer and a mlemaker. However, in performing in Congress, the administration and elsewhere in there were less than 20 U.S. roll-ons, none less these roles, it is important that the one not be used the govemment and the industry itself must start than 10 years "^old. As foreign fleets ^ew to solely for the purposes of the other. The govem­ thinking of economic and policy reforms in a transport millions of vehicles worldwide, the ment as mlemaker must look beyond the govem­ broader context than the next promotional pro­ only growth sector under U.S.-flag was the ment as customer in deciding maritime policy. gram. Failure to develop and implement reforms govemment-owned roll-on fleet. Rich as this that go to the bedrock issues facing the industry Two common misperceptions about maritime country may be, we cannot afford to repeat that today will result in the inevitable disappearance policies hurt the government's ability to formu­ experience for containerships or tankers. A of the United States-flag fleet—first from the late policy in a manner that would encourage a govemment fleet is not the solution. iSKifct world's oceans, then from our coasts, and finally strong, competitive maritime industry in the from our inland waterways. Second, he would say, reform must focus on United States. implementing broad principles, not merely craft­ Anyone who doubts that this sequence of ¥ ing narrow, legalistic fixes. At a minimum, these events is not already under way need only look at "Maritime is... looking for principles should include the following two facts: first, APL's and Sea-Land's applica­ X. equal treatment-^to other tions to re-flag half of the vessels now in their U IJ'I•:V • Government must be part of the solution, domestic transportation modes foreign trade fleets; and second, the not part of the problem. By various es­ administration's proposed revitalization program or to our foreign competitors." timates, as much as 80 percent of the added James R. Barker, the 1994 Paul Hall that is now lithited to a maximum of 52 liner cost of owning and operating a vessel under Memorial lecturer, has been deeply involved vessels. And what happens to the rest? No matter U.S.-flag results from govemment mandates First, not all promotional policies are sub­ in the operation of U.S. shipping companies how these facts play out, the net result will be a not imposed on foreign vessels. Thus, we sidies. Although cabotage and cargo reservation since 1971. much diminished U.S.-flag foreign trade fleet. must look at deregulation in a fashion that statutes are usually characterized as maritime Nor will this process stop with the foreign trade helps, not hurts, the industry. Delivering the 1994 Paul Hall Memorial promotional programs, in fact such laws do no fleet. Those who would "deregulate" maritime Lecture on May 4 in Washington was more than mandate the application of a broad would bring the same result to our coastal and James R. Barker, principal owner and vice range of U.S. labor, employment and personal .. reform must focus on im­ inland waterways. chairman of Mormac Marine Group, Inc. and corporate tax laws and social programs to and chairman of Interlake Steamship Hold­ The question before us is: What must be done plementing broad principles, domestic water transportation generally and to ing Company. to avoid these results? ocean transportation when U.S. taxpayers' dol­ not merely crafting narrow, The Paul Hall Lecture Series memorial­ It is a great privilege for me to be here today lars are being used to finance the cargo or the izes the late president of the Seafarers Inter­ legalistic fixes." to give the Paul Hall Memorial Lecture because transportation. national Union, who served as the always one to ^hom the industry would Paul was By requiring the application of such laws as organization's principal officer front the • We must get **more boats in the water" look for leadership when faced with such a ques­ late '40s to his death in 1980. Hall was the Family Leave Act, social security, personal under U.S.-flag. Increasing the number of tion. Herb Brand's call inviting me here today universally regarded for his effective efforts and corporate federal income tax, and unemploy­ modem vessels that can be operated under brought back many memories of the days that to promote the U.S.-flag shipping industry. ment taxes to maritime transportation, the U.S. U.S.-flag in a cost-effective manner could Herb, Paul and I used to spend together discuss­ Barker is a graduate of Columbia govemment simply says that you cannot hire solve problems across the industry: more ing the problems facing the industry. Despite the University who also holds a masters in busi­ foreign workers to avoid the higher costs of buildings, more repair opportunities for challenges, those were among the happiest days ness administrationfrom the Harvard Busi­ employing American workers to move cargoes shipyards, more jobs for labor and more of my life—not the least because of the oppor­ ness School, He is a principal owner and and acknowledges its own responsi'oility to do revenue-generating assets for operators. tunity they gave me to work with one of the giants director of Meridian Aggregates Company, the same for its own shipments, both domestic of our industry. Thus, as I sat down to prepare this which produces approximately 7 million • We must become cost-competitive. Clearly and foreign. Even though these mandates result talk, I presumed to ask myself, "How would Paul tons of quarry products per yearfor use in the market is there—but to recapture some of in higher rates for U.S. vessels, they are not the construction and railroad industries. approach trying to build a stronger and better the 96 percent of U.S. trade that now moves subsidies. On the cabotage side, they simply en­ Prior to its purchase by Mormac Marine U.S. merchant marine at a time when the future in foreign bottoms, U.S. vessels must be costsure that water transportation must be provided Group, Barker served as chairman of the of the U.S.-flag fleet is truly in doubt?" competitive. Efforts to eliminate unfair and board and chief executive officer of Moore on the same basis as domestic air, rail or highway Here's what I think Paul would have said. burdensome regulatory, tax and operating re­ McCormack Resources, a position he held transportation—all must employ American labor First, we all understand the benefit of having a quirements must be pursued with vigor. Much from the time he joined the company in 7977. and pay U.S. taxes. In the preference area, such strong and competitive U.S.-flag merchant like Detroit, much like the steel industry, we Before joining Moore McCormack, he rates merely reimburse the U.S. operator who, marine and maritime industry, both in terms of must get competitive and that's was executive vice president of Temple under U.S. law, is responsible for bearing the economics and for national defense. No one has Barker and Shane, a management consult­ management's job. To stimulate private in­ direct costs of those laws—costs not imposed on ever refuted the basic proposition that a commer­ ing firm he co-founded in 1969. vestment in the maritime industry, the in­ their foreign competitors. cial fleet of militarily-used vessels that pays most The firit Paul Hall Memorial Lecture dustry must be free to realize the economic of its own way in peacetime yet is available to the The second misperception is that maritime is was delivered in 1987. The series, part of benefits that flow from advances in technol­ govemment to meet its needs for economic and somehow looking for special treatment. In fact, the Paul Hall Memorial Endowment at the ogy. national defense shipping in times of war or we simply are looking for equal treatment—to University of Southern California, honors national emergency is the most cost-effective other domestic transportation modes or to our distinguished contributors to marine • We must make maritime an all-inclusive means of providing that shipping. Many in this transportation by providing a public forum game. Balkanization has been as unfortunate foreign competitors. Unlike those who would for their thoughts in the form of an annual town may assume otherwise, but none can prove for the industry as the tragic events now oc­ eliminate the Jones Act, we don't believe that lecture. it. The govemment has and is spending billions curring in the former Yugoslavia have been cargo moving by barge from Memphis to New The endowment was established by of dollars just to address its need for reliable for the peoples of that region. Overemphasis Orleans should be exempt from U.S. employ­ friends and associates in organized labor access to roll-on/roll-off vessels for military on short-term, narrow interests is as bad for ment laws. By the same measure, if such an and the marine industry shortly after SIU needs, and hundreds of millions annually to maritime as it is bad for any other sector that exemption is deemed good for maritime, why not President Paul Hall died in 1980. maintain those vessels. must compete in the global economy. Even other modes? Similarly, we are looking for equal The title of Barker's lecture is "Are Ifou operators under cabotage laws are subject to Even as the world commercial market in rollregulatory treatment with foreign vessels using the Kind of Leader the Industry Needs?". the pressures of international economics. on/roll-off vessels grew exponentially, the U.S. ports. It makes no sense to impose one set The full text of his address appears on these United States govemment abandoned the promo­ of standards on U.S. vessels that move 4 percent Let me briefly address each of these principles two pages. tional programs that served as the catalyst for of our cargo while allowing foreign vessels that in turn. F v. •t-'-.^, ,- .,-> •>:r.'";^"-":> "v-- I ,. J.•>, "Sy '»iv.i,,i:i-,rr.^,...''"" • " "• ' • move 96 percent of our cargo to operate under different, less costly standards. U.S. and foreign vessels serving U.S. ports should be built, operated and maintained to the same standards. If the U.S. seeks a more restrictive standard, the solution should be to pursue that standard through international regulation applicable to all vessels calling at U.S. ports, not to unfairly bur­ den only U.S. vessels calling at those ports. The same applies in the area of tax policy. Why should American maritime companies operating foreign subsidiaries be subject to dif­ ferent tax policies than other U.S. companies with foreign operations? The answer is they shouldn't, but they now are. My second principle for guiding maritime reform is that the bottom line for reform must be the simple proposition of getting more "boats in the water" under U.S.-flag. Consider this—if the U.S.-flag foreign trade fleet were to recapture its 1970 share of liner trade and 1970 share of bulk trade by the year 2000, there would be roughly twice as many vessels in that fleet as at present: roughly 90 new Uners, 9 new dry bulkers and 45 tankers. The goal of maritipie reform should be getting those "boats in the water." For too long, the industiy has focused solely on how to maximize our return from a single hull with insufficient attention being paid to gaining by increasing the number of vessels. Technologically, the U.S. has always been at the forefront—for example; our cargo moved per deadweight ton has increased 58 percent over the last 25 years. However, from an industiy perspective, that strategy has not even allowed us to maintain the status quo in terms of market share. Nowhere is the operation of this principle better illustrated than in the area of manning and crew wages. The emphasis decreasing crew costs in a single hull creates a zero sum game for the operator and for labor—to preserve wages and jobs, labor is put in a position of opposing man­ ning and wage reforms. In comparison, in an environment in which the number of vessels is increasing, labor becomes a partner with the operator in addressing crew costs—30 jobs on two ships at a decent wage is better for all con­ cerned than 20 jobs on one ship with wages pushed to unreasonable amounts to providing a living wage for two or more seafarers for a single billet. To its credit, maritime labor has an­ nounced its willingness to be an effective par­ ticipant in this process. In sum, true reform means any measure that contributes to increasing the number of vessels in the fleet. Measures that merely preserve exist­ ing numbers or stem the hemorrhage may be necessary short-term "band-aids" but they should not be confused with true reform. adds to the cost of doing business with no in­ crease in safety, environmental protection or other benefit. Why should the Coast Guard reinspect what we pay the classification societies to inspect? Why not let the Coast Guard inspect the inspectors, not the operators? Why can't we build our ships to international requirements— they're safe enough for 94 out of every 100 vessels entering a U.S. port! Why penalize U.S. operators for obtaining vessel repairs from the most economic source? Unique U.S. tax policies for maritime and requirements like the ad valorem duty on foreign repairs add almost a million dollars a year to the economic "cost" of U.S. operation. Industrywide, our productivity gains have been impressive: more cargo moved by fewer ships and less manpower; cargo carried per crewmember up 860 percent; and cargo delivered per ton of fuel burned more than doubled. But the benefits of those gains cannot be stolen from the industry by hostile tax and regulatory policies. Another area where govemment regulatory reform is needed to improve the competitiveness of the U.S. merchant marine is that of tort reform. The tort-based system of compensating for in­ juries in the maritime workplace is one of the largest single contributors to the added costs of operating under U.S.-flag. The million dollar plus settlements that are not untypical in this area are not far removed from the entire cost of operat­ ing a fully-crewed foreign-flag vessel for a year. Lastly, maritime must become an inclusive, not an exclusionary game. 1 must admit that our opponents are correct to the extent that many of the maritime programs that this country has pur­ sued over the past decades have served to divide and weaken the industry. Nothing better charac­ terizes the state of the maritime industry than its narrow focus on preserving promotional programs that benefit specific segments as op­ posed to pursuing broader interests that would benefit the industry as a whole. For example, 17 of the 36 pages of the administration's new maritime revitalization program are dedicated to ensuring that existing operators in the non-con­ tiguous domestic trades are protected from "un­ fair" competition by "subsidized" vessels. As the government's ability to fund support programs diminishes across the board, this com­ petition becomes more intense and more divisive. Thus, shipbuilders' representatives on the merchant marine subcommittee have an­ nounced that they would not support the administration's proposed maritime security pro­ gram for liner operators unless funding were provided for the series transition program for shipyards. And with all due respect to my many friends on the legal and trade association sides of our industry, the only people who benefit from this constant pressure to protect segments of the industry are Washington lawyers and repre­ sentatives. Over time, such competition hurts the industry as a whole. . V "Ours is a global industry, and it is in the international marketplace that we must be­ come cost competitive!" Nor can the industry continue to think of itself in narrow terms grounded in government programs or policies. The domestic tanker in­ dustry on the East and Gulf Coasts is an example of how international economics penetrates even so-called "protected" trades. U.S.-refined products are not exported from the Gulf, while the same products refined in the Caribbean are imported in the Northeast. All on foreign-flag vessels because that arrangement has an economic advantage over direct shipments using U.S.-flag vessels. Ours is a global industry, and it is in the international marketplace that we must become cost competitive! Paul Hall was a leader in this industry. As 1 look over this room today, 1 am certain that there are other Paul Halls out there. For example, there is Mike Sacco who last fall called the industry together to remind us that if we did not pull together in the coming fight, the industry in the United States was surely doomed to extinction. But we need more leaders like Mike if we are to prevail in the coming months. From the perspec­ tive of the industry as a whole, what has been accomplished since last September's meeting pales in comparison to what remains to be done. Those opposed to a continued active role by the United States govemment in encouraging the development and maintenance of a strong and competitive maritime industry in the United States for whatever reason know that this in­ dustry is vulnerable. The vast majority of the American people have never seen nor set foot on an American-flag vessel. Few understand what the industry means to this country and our ability to be an economic and military sea power in the world of the 21st century. In the coming months, we must get our side of Ae story to the American people and to their elected representatives in Congress and in the administration. T-'M' •. Sr. • ::#l# "U.S. and foreign vessels serv­ ing U.S. ports should be built, operated and maintained to the same standards." .. the bottom line for reform must be the simple proposition of getting more 'boats in the water' under U.S.-flag. 99 However, to get the ships, ypu have to get the cargoes, and to get the cargoes you have to be cost-competitive. Burdensome regulations and tax policies are robbing the industry of the economic benefits of advances in technology. Historically, radio officers have played a major role in ensuring the safety of those who sailed the world's oceans. But when satellites and com­ puters can more effectively monitor distress fre­ quencies and anyone who can operate a telephone can communicate worldwide from a vessel at sea, we cannot afford a couple of hundred thousand dollars a year to keep someone on board each ship "just in case." Think of it—the radio officer alone eats up 10 percent of what the administration has proposed as an annual pay­ ment of a liner vessel! But don't think me biased against radio of­ ficers. I'm biased against every unnecessary cost to operate a vessel under U.S.-flag that simply Now is the time for the Paul Hall in all of us to step to the fore. As an industry, we need leadership as we have never needed it in the past. And 1 am not talking only about industry giants. 1 am talking about everyone in this room and those in the industry not here with us today. As we engage in maritime issues over the coming months, look to your own position on each issue and test it against the principles I've outlined above: • If it envisions a role of the govemment, does it make the govemment part of the solution? • If put in place, would it increase the "number of boats in the water?" • ' Does it encourage broader participation under U.S.-flag? An etching in glass of Paul Hall is presented to Paul Hall lecturer Barker by Dr. Robert Friedman (left), director of the USC SeaGrant Program, from which the lecture series is administered. If the answer is yes to each of these questions, then you are the kind of leader this industry needs;— 4I ^ I' - �14 JUNE 1994 SEAFARERS LOG SlU-Crewed Sugar Islander Delivers Food to War-Ravaged African Nation Seafarers aboard the Sugar Islander helped support humanitarian efforts led by the World Food Program of Rome, Italy when the Pacific Gulf Marine (PGM) vessel delivered 20,000 metric tons of com to the destitute country of Angola, on Africa's west coast. "It was a very long and hard trip but we got the job done. The entire trip took a total of 70 days, and 34 of those days were spent off-loading," AB Arthur "Jr." Machado told the Seafarers LOG. The crew began loading the number two yellow corn on March 7 in the vessel's home port of New Orleans. On March 8, the crew finished loading and set sail for the African nation. The Sugar Islander arrived in the Angolan port of Lobito on March 29 and remained docked until April 21 when the last of the cargo was off-loaded. "It was a long trip and unloading was difficult at times. But we had a great crew and we all workeid hard to get the job done as best as we could," noted Machado. PGM Port Captain Harry Nilsen, who met the ship in Lobito, noted, "Once in port, half the cargo was discharged onto another ship while the other half was discharged at the dock. It was done this way so that it could be transported easily to distribution centers in the interior of the country where the highest need existed." He explained that the portion of­ floaded onto another vessel sailed to Luanda, north of Lobito. Machado added that one reason why off-loading took so long is that crewmembers were allowed to work only be­ tween the hours of 8 a.m. and 10 p.m. due to restrictions enforced by Angola port representatives. "We also had trouble with the evacuators that were used to pump the com to the dock. Because of the massive amount of cargo, they kept breaking down, and it took time to fix them before we could start again," said Machado. Crew Cookouts To keep morale high during the lengthy stay, crewmembers began or­ ganizing Sunday barbecues on the fantail of the ship. "The crew was excellent. Because they were there for an extended period of time and there wasn't much to do ashore, they stayed on board for most of the time. The food prepared by the steward depart­ ment was incredible and the cookouts were outstanding and enjoyed by all," noted Nilsen, who also stayed aboard the vessel while it docked in Lobito. Machado noted that Chief Cook Kim Gardner and the galley gang members prepared wonderful salads and desserts to accompany the various barbecue items. "Bosun Steve Thompson and the The Sugar Islander was the first American ship to dock in the port of Lobito in 16 years. Language Barrier "One of the hardest aspects of the trip was that no one in port spoke any English. Everyone spoke Portuguese," said Machado. Angola is the second largest coun^ in Africa south of the Sahara. Officii estimates say the population is about 8.9 million people, with 29 percent of the population living in urbanized areas. Pre­ viously, about 80 percent of the popula­ tion lived in mral areas. Much of the influx into the cities can be traced to a civil war, which caused hundreds of deck gang kept the ship in excellent thousands to seek shelter in iirban areas. condition while in port which is not About 50 percent of the urban population always easy when that large amount of is believed to be destitute. cargo is being unloaded on a daily "People were very poor and condi­ basis," he said. tions were bad. Everything in the area we Nilsen stated that the weather was ex­ were in was in a state of decay. The city ceptional while the ship was in port even itself has an outside shell that appears as though it was during Lobito's "rainy if things used to be nice but has not been season.'^ Machado added that ap­ cared for or kept up for some time," said proximately 10 inches of rain fall per Nilsen. "We saw some bad conditions, but we year, and during their stay in the African port there were five rain showers that did not see the actual starving people. Where the cargo was most desperately lasted a maximum of one hour each. Relaxing on deck following the ship's bar­ becue are (from left standing) Third Mate Jack Hanley, AB Stanley Darranda, Deck Cadet Brian Olsen, Captain James Nolen and Peck Cadet Cfiris Walsh. Sitting, from left, are Second Assistant Engineer Chuck Benson, QMED Claudio Mazzaro and Chief Engineer Bill Davidson. needed we did not visit," the PGM repre­ sentative added. Angola once exported coffee, cotton sugarcane, bananas, citrus fruit and com but the war disrapted agricultural produc­ tion. Some provinces, once the breadbas­ ket of the nation, are now able to provide less than half the country's food needs Angola is rich in mineral resources such as oil, diamonds and iron ore. Nearly al mining, except oil production in a smal area, was brought to an end by the war, which destroyed the infrastructure. "Be­ cause of the state of poverty, we were very proud to assist," Machado recalled. The SMgnr/s/anJer used tocarry sugar from Hawaii to California for refining for C and H Sugar. 'Protecting' the Crew Still remaining aboard the vessel "to protect crewmembers" is a statue of Hawaiian tiki god. King Kamahaalii. The statue was presented to the ship at launching ceremonies on August 26,1972 in Seattle as a token of eteinal best wishes for favorable seas and happy sailing. Proclaimed as the god of the Sea and protector of sailors, he remains perched on the bridge to protect and guard the Sugar Islander and all who sail on her. The Hawaiian "Tiki God," which still stands guard in the wheelhouse of the SugarIslander, was donated to the vessel by the people of Hawaii at the ship's launching ceremonies in Seattle, Wash, in August 1972. Its®' il' At'l!' ' 1. < AB Arthur Machado (left), Steward/Baker Rickie Juzang and AB Phil Desmarteau pose for a photo on the fantail of the ship. Enjoying the food and weather aboard ship are, from left, AB Greg Jenkins (standing) Chief Cook Kim Gardner, Wiper Warren Moore and Bosun Steve Thompson. '.v-V? �JUNE 1994 SEAFARERS LOG Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea July s August 1994 Mmtiership Uee^ngs Deep Sea, Lakes, Inland Waters APRIL 16 — MAY 15,1994 •TOTAL REGISTERED AH Groups Class A Class B Class C Port New York 33 Philadelphia 1 Baltimore 5 Norfolk 12 Mobile 14 New Orleans 29 Jacksonville 21 San Francisco 31 Wilmington 12 Seattle 25 Puerto Rico 7 Honolulu 11 Houston 28 St. Louis 0 Piney Point 2 Algonac 0 Totals 231 Port New York 17 jPhiladelphia 2 Baltimore 2 Norfolk 9 8 Mobile New Orleans 13 Jacksonville 14 San Francisco 17 8 Wilmington 14 Seattle Puerto RicO 2 2 Honolulu 13 Houston & St. Louis 2 Piney Point 0 Algonac 123 Totals Port 18 NewYork Philadelphia ,4 3 Baltimore 8 Norfolk 6 Mobile New Orleans 4 Jacksonville 19 San Francisco 33 Wilmington 13 19 Seattle 6 Puerto Rico 11 Honolulu 14 Houston 0 St. Louis 3 Piney Point 0 Algonac 161 Totals Port 19 NewYork 0 Philadelphia 0 Baltimore 3 Norfolk 3 Mobile New Orleans 8 2 Jacksonville San Francisco 14 6 Wilmington 7 Seattle 8 Puerto Rico 5 Honolulu 4 Houston 0 St. Louis 0 Piney Point 0 Algonac 79 Totals Totals Ail Departments 594 29 5 5 16 19 23 20 . 17 29 1 10 mil • \.im-i"K, 0 241 w 2 m 11 11 21 13 8 10 mm TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Trip Reliefs DECK DEPARTMENT 7 21 22 3 • • 10 2 5 4 1 4 0 5. 6 0 ••'1 . 5 8 19 2 7 4 12 16 0 2 5 13 26 2 9 r -17 io 2 10 22 0 0 10 14 Kimiim 5 4o''Km 12 I': 15 •/: 8 4 25 4 29 5 1 5 0 3 5 3 8 13 5• 10 13 22 |4';: 9 0 0 0 0 2 0 5 m't 1 • 1 0 0 / • 0 0 0 87 225 27 54 160 ENGINE DEPARTMENT • X, 0 1 4 0 1 2^ 1 2 0 8 ••REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 1 398 54 13 5 27 26 39 37 41 30 39 3 26 52 4 18 0 414 10 4 1 5 5 13 6 1 8 7 2 17 17 0 2 0 98 ' Kmm 3 1 2 6 0 4 6 :u.:i: 12 3 ; 3 1 11 9 14 13 6 15 1 4 2 1 10 0 1 0 159 10 0 0 0 104 116 21 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 1 0 , 5 iKmm. ^34 14 9 _ X, 1 2 0 2 3 1 • ••• 5 0 2 2 12 5 0 1 6 9 10 5 1 1 2 6 13 5 0 8 0 4 : 22 5 .: 1 11 3 70 6 0 24 -ll 9 0 3 14 1 32 7 2 5 14 1 6 6 1 2 1 2 28 2 1 4 0 5 23 15' 3 mi lifp 0 0 0 0 6 0 0 2 1 mil 0 0 0 0 0 0 285 66 111 67 6 13 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 29 0 -I' , 37 5 14 0 0 1 1 1 :• 3 1 0 0 0 3 3 6 0 4 20 1 4 4 0 0 9 1 1 19 0 1 15 2 5 • 3 0 3 11 ; 1 9 r 31 0 2 11 7 . 11 • • 0' 0 7 2 KilA 11 0 8 15 10 7 12 0 1 3 5 2 15 0 9 8 3 42 3 0 1 6 11 3 0 0 •/.; 0 0 0't 0 0 1 16 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 145 0 32 167 45 103 fm 6 3 9 8 8 4 2 1 10 7 0 imiimbi} 0 85 43 2 11 19 12 21 19 19 19 23 3 39 14 1 16 1 262 747 0 46 11 10 19 12 11 6 7 0 21 1 2 0 3 1 0 2 3 2 1 1 13 0 15 0 144 0 0 0 30 74 6 10 31 27 44 31 24 30 30 5 95 28 7 5 6 2 17 13 9 8 8 5 128 9 0 3 0 248 18 3 • mi Km. 'm rm m'm imm 196 420 575 86 193 Piney Point Tuesday: July 5*; Monday, August 8 changed by Independence Day holiday 'Km:.- ' 56 1 6 20 20 53 3» 52 37 37 19 11 45 0 1,061 34 19 2 462 1,333 IS v.- • New York Tuesday: July 5, August 9 Philadelphia Wednesday: July 6, August 10 Baltimore Thursday: July 7, August 11 Norfolk Thursday: July 7, August 11 Jacksonville Thursday: July 7, August 11 Algonac Friday: July 8, August 12 Houston . r' Monday: July 11, August 15 New Orleans Tuesday: July 12, August 16 Mobile , IWednesday: July 13, August 17 San Francisco Thursday: July 14, August 18 Wilmington Monday: July 18; Tuesday, August 23 changed by Paul Hall Birthday holiday m'-r ;!• 4 Seattle Friday: July 22, August 26 San Juan : Thursday: July 7, August 11 ' St Louis W^§li Friday: July 15, August 19 Honolulu Friday: July 15, August 19 Duluth Wednesday; July 13, August 17 Jersey City Wednesday: July 20, August 24 New Bedford Tuesday; July 19, August 23 Each port's meeVng starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals JUANGILBERTO TORRES-GONZALEZ Please write your sister, Gloria Torres-Gon­ zalez, at 280 H Street, Apt. 6F, Chula Vista, CA 91910; or telephone collect at (619) 422-8165. m-' ''M' •K0-. • M. •* FREDERICK SANDERSON Anyone knowing the whereabouts of Frederick Sanderson is requested to contact his cousin, Eleanor Manly Stinson, at 729 Dogtown Road, Clarksburg, Ohio 43115; telephone (614) 3355327. ' mm- M:' I '' f 4 422 * Total Registered means me numner or men wno aeiuiuiy icgi^icicu lui aiuppiug ai mw pwti Kil I ** "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. A total of 1^74 jobs were shipped on SlU-contracted deep sea vessels. Of the 1^74 jobs shipped, 420jobs or about 33 percent were taken by "A" seniority members. The rest were fUled by and "C seniority people. From Aprill6 to May 15,1994, a total of 193 trip relief jobs were shipped. Since the trip reUef pro­ gram began on April 1,1982, a total of 20,904 jobs have been shipped. .•K9'- w^-i' ^ �JUNE 1994 16 SEAFARERS LOG Seafarers International Union Directory • Michael Sacco President John Fay Secretary-Treasurer Joseph Sacco Executive Vice Presictent Augustin Tellez Vice President Collective Bargaining George McCartney Vice President West Coast Roy A. "Buck" Mercer Vice FTesitfent Government ServioKS JackCaflTey Vice President Atl^tic Coast Byron Kelley Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters DeanCoi Vice President 'oast HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) s^p-oevs ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr. Algonac, MI 48001 (313)794-4988 BALTIMORE 1216E. Baltimore SL Baltimore, MD 21202 (410)327-4900 DULUTH 705 Medical Arts Building Duluth,MN 55802 (218)722-4110 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St. Honolulu, ra 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St. Houston, TX 77002 (713)659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St. Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JERSEY CITY Jersey MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy. Mobile, AL 36605 (205) 478-0916 NEW BEDFORD 48 Union St. New Bedford, MA 02740 (508)997-5404 NEW ORLEANS 630 Jackson Ave. New Orleans, LA 70130 (504) 529-7546 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718)499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St. Norfolk, VA 23510 (804)622-1892 PHILADELPHIA • /i' V ^ =? .„ i " "•i'; ; 'i Philadelphia," PA 19148 (215)336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75 Kney Point. MD 20674 (301)994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 2 West Dixie Highway Dania, FL 33004 (305) 921-5661 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St. San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Government Services Division (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave. Stopl6V^ Santurce, PR 00907 (809)721-4033 SEATTLE 2505 First Ave. Seattle, WA 98121 (206)441-1960 ST. LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave. St. Louis, MO 63116 (314)752-6500 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave. Wilmington, CA 90744 (310)549-4000 Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes ^ APRIL 16 — MAY 15,1994 CL—Company/Lakes L—Lakes NP—^Non Priority *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP ID Port Algo Port Algonac 0 9 9 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP ••REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups aassCL Class L Class NP DECK DEPARTMENT 0 5 0 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 STEWARD DEPARTMENT f 0 r • 0V ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 Totals All Departments 0 48 14 0 11 0 0 112 * 'Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. ** "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. 25 V-5 Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters APRIL 16 - MAY 15,1994 •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast t^es & Inland Wa^ West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Wateii West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Watersl West Coast Totals Totals All Departments Mm 3 0 0 1 I 57 0 64 k':W 0 6 I# '''W 18 0 4 0 0 ' '""O 0 0 '0 5 7 117 19 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups ' Class A Class B Class C ••REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups QassA Class B Class C DECK DEPARTMENT 7 2 ^ 23 ' 28 60 1 14 ENGINE DEPARTMENT : 1 0 0 0 0 3 n 8 0 10 0 10 0 3 STEWARD DEPARTMENT Q v:;.- ' 0 0 0 2 0 2 12 17 146 1 6 0 9 15 10 105 * "Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. ** "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. SIUBUULETIM PAY VOUCHERS NEEDED WITH SOME VACATION APPLICATIONS COAST GUARD ISSUES ^ V OCEAN SERVICE SEEKS ^ UPDATED PHOTOS OF _ ALERT FOR PORTS AND COASTLINES ALIEN SMUGGLING The U.S. Coast Guard, in conjunction with the International Maritime Or­ ganization, is asking merchant mariners to help avoid tragedies at sea by report­ ing vessels suspected of smuggling un­ documented aliens. The federal agency has released two profiles of vessels that have been in­ volved in many of the reported inci­ dents. The profiles include general ocean-going dry cargo vessels that are 150 to 500 feet in length and formerhi^ seas drift net vessels (80 to 150 feet in length) with a superstructure amidships, rigging or heavy fishing gear aft and possibly a well deck forward. Typical crew size for the profiled vessels is less ^ PORT ARTHUR, TEXAS ^ than 25. Any vessel not designed for passenger travel but with an unusually MEMBERSHIP MEETING large number of persons on board should SET be reported. A general informational membership Crewmembers who witness a potenmeeting for SIU boatmen who live tial alien smuggling situation should and/or work around the Port Arthur, report the incident, following the ship- J Texas area will be held on Wednesday, f board communication procedures. July 6 at 2:00 p.m. at the Ramada Iim on Highway 87 in Port Arthur. For more information, contact the Houston SIU hall. Seafarers who have sailed aboard military vessels operated by Bay Ship­ ping Management and U.S. Marine Management, Inc. should provide copies of their pay vouchers when filing for vacation benefits related to employ­ ment with these companies. U.S. Coast Guard discharges from these firms do not show exact dates of employment, so the pay vouchers must be submitted as well. Applications submitted without copies of pay vouchers will be held in a pending status until the proper verifica­ tion is received. •. . The Defense Mapping Agency is seeking recent photographs of ports and coastlines from around the world, for publication in upcoming editions of Sailing Directions. The photos can be either color or black and white. Of particular interest are photographs of landfall aspects, port ap­ proaches, channel entrances and turns, major navigational aids, points, capes, landmarks and other views that would assist navigators. Photos should be taken from seaward and close enough that principal landmarks can be identified. The prints should contain notes which describe the position of the camerahy coordinates or true bearing and distance from charted object, identify the navigational aids or landmarks photographed (black and white shots should include the colors) and the date and time shot as well as any other information that may be useful. If possible, two copies of each photograph should be included. The prints should be sent to Sailing Direc­ tions, Defense Mapping Agency, Hydrographic/Topographic Center, Beth^da, MD 20816. �•;^4- •• JUNE 1994 SEAFARERS LOG J oining the growing number of SIU pensioners this month are 19 members of the Seafarers who have retired after many years of sailing on the world's seaways. Ten of those signing off sailed in the deep sea division while four each sailed in the inland and Great Lakes divisions and one in the Atlantic Fishermen's division. Brother Pablo Lopez com­ pleted the steward recertification program at Piney Point in 1982. Of all the union brothers signing off this month. Brother Lopez was in the SIU the longest— having become a member in 1951 in the port of New York. Of the retiring Seafarers, nine served in the U.S. military: five in the Army and two each in the Marine Corps and Navy. Short biographical accounts of Brother Lopez and the other new pensioners follow. DEEP SEA JOSEPH COLLINS, 46, joined the Seafarers in 1971 in the port of Mobile, Ala. An Alabama native, he sailed in all three departmentbut mainly in the engineroomthroughout his seafaring career. Brother Collins resides in Mobile. ALBARO HERNAN­ DEZ, 65, joined the SIU in 1959 in the port of New Or­ leans. Bom in Texas, he sailed in the deck department.^ Brother Hernandez upgraded at the Lundeberg School in 1981. He calls Corpus Christi, Texas home. GREATLAKES To Our New Pensioners ... Thanks for a Job Weil Done Each month in the Seafarers LOQ^e names of SIU members who recently have become pensioners appear with summaries ofthqir maritime careers. These men and women 4 have served the industry well, and the SIU and all their union brothers and sisters wish them happiness and health in the days ahead. DOUGLAS McLEOD, 59,joined the union in 1968 in the port of New York. Bom in Lucedale, Miss., he sailed in the engine department. Brother McLeod served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1952 to 1954. He lives in De Funiak Springs, Fla. PABLO PACHECO, 65, joined the SIU in 1956 in the port of New York. A na­ tive of Ponce, P.R., he sailed in the deck department. Brother Pacheco upgraded at Piney Point in 1981. He retired to Mercedita, P.R. ALFREDO PANICO, 64, joined the union in 1965 in the port of Wil­ mington, Calif. Bom in Italy, he sailed in the steward department. Brother Panico resides in Jack­ sonville, Ra. DONALD PACCIO, 66, joined the Seafarers in 1963 following his graduation from the Andrew Fumseth Training School in New York. A New York native, he sailed in the deck department. Brother Paccio upgraded at the Lundeberg School frequently. He served in the U.S. Army from 1946 to 1958. Brother Paccio calls Long Island, N.Y. home. LAWRENCE STOGNER, 66, joined the Seafarers in 1980 in the port of Seattle. A na­ tive of Long Beach, Calif., he sailed in the deck department. Brother Stogner served in the U.S. Navy from 1943 to 1955. He calls Tacoma, Wash. home. INLAND WILLIAM GREER SR., 62, joined the union in 1957 in the port of New Orleans. Bom in Frisco City, Ala., he most recent­ ly sailed as a pilot. Boatman 'X 17 Greer upgraded at Piney Point in 1976. He resides in Lacombe, La. ELBERT DAVIS, 66, joined the SIU in 1961 in the port of Norfolk, Va. A Green­ ville, N.C. ' native, he worked his way up a boatman's career path, retiring as a captain. Boatman Davis retired to Nash­ ville, N.C. DAVID JONES, 63, joined the Seafarers in 1955 in the port of Norfolk, Va. A native of New­ port News, Va., he sailed in the deck department. Boatman Jones served in the U.S. Army from 1946 to 1947. He calls Chesapeake, Va. home. KAID ALGALHAM, 52, joined the Seafarers in 1972 in the port of Detroit. Bom in Arabia, he sailed in the deck depart­ ment. Brother Algalham upgraded at the Lun­ deberg School in 1979. He calls Detroit home. BERNARD BYRNE, 62, joined the union in 1961 in his native Chicago. Brother Byrne sailed in the deck department. He served in the U.S. Army from 1952 to 1954. Brother Byrne resides in Parkridge, 111. DANIEL HULL, 64, joined the SIU in 1968 in his native Alpena, Mich. Brother Hull sailed in the deck department. He still calls Alpena home. i'( "• ' ••••"I. • >•; WILLIAM TRUAX, 57, joined the union in 1967 in Uie port of Detroit. A Toledo, Ohio native, he sailed in the deck department. Brother Truax served in the U.S. Army from 1959 to 1963. He retir^ to Maumee, Ohio. JOHN SCOTT, 62, joined the SIU in 1974 in the port of Philadelphia. Bom in Tan­ ATLANTIC FISHERMEN gier, Va., he sailed as a JAMES INTERRANTE, 63, tankerman. Boatman Scott joined the Seafarers in 1966 in served in the U.S. Navy from his native Gloucester, Mass. 1951 to 1971. He retired to Onan- Brother Interrante continues to cock, Va. live in Gloucester. Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters Dis­ trict makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership's money and union finances. The con­ NICK stitution requires a detailed audit by HUTCHINS, public accountants every certified 63, joined year, which is to be submitted to the the union in membo^hip by the secretary-treasurer. 1969 in the A yearly finance committee of rankport of Bal­ timore. A na­ and-file members, elected by the membership, each yearexamines the tive of the Philippine Is­ finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommen­ lands, he sailed in the engine dations. Members of this committee department. Brother Hutchins may make dissenting reports, Sunnyvale, Calif. lives in specific recommendations and separate findings. PABLO TRUST FUNDS. All tmst funds LOPEZ, 71, of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and joined the Inland Waters District are ad­ Seafarers in ministered in accordance with the 1951 in the provisions of various trust fund port of New agreements. All these agreements York. Bom specify that the trustees in charge of in the Philip­ these funds shall equally consist of pines, he union and management repre­ graduated from the steward recer­ sentatives and their alternates. All tification program at Piney Point expenditures and disbursements of in 1982. Brother Lopez retired to trust funds are made only upon ap­ Seattle. proval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the DONALD various trust funds. McFARSHIPPING RIGHTS. A LAND, 65, member's shipping rights and joined the seniority are protected exclusively SIU in 1975 in the port of by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get Yokohama, to know their shipping rights. Copies Japan. A of these contracts are posted and Seattle na­ available in all union halls. If memtive, he sailed in the deck depart­ )ers believe there have been viola­ ment. Brother McFarland served tions of their shipping or seniority in the U.S. Army from 1951 to rights as contained in the conU-acts 1953. He resides in Lynnwood, t)etween the union and the Wash. employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Ap­ peals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions undo- which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the propo' manner. If, at any time, a mem­ ber believes that an SIU patrolman or otho" union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refiained fixrm publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refiained fi'om publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaf­ firmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all con­ stitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without sup­ plying a receipt, or if a mepiber is required to m^e a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should nothave been required to make such payment, this should im­ mediately be reported to union head­ quarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU constitution are available in all union halls. All mem­ bers should obtain copies of this coristitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting todeprive him or her of any constiUitional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. TTiese rightsare clearly set forth in the SIU constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Con­ sequently, no member may be dis­ criminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that heor she is detued theequal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION — •» 3 ^ nfv/'iy V--' SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and pur­ poses including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and fur­ thering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boat­ men and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or reCeived because of force, job discrimination, fmancid reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a con­ tribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the mem­ ber should notify the Seafarers Inter­ national Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribu­ tion for investigation and ap­ propriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and fur­ ther his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of acr cess to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The ad­ dress is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. -a-. ,• > - .ff' • •; %-• • vyiW ..1: "'-• f • T'- f• , . ,• oi-f J _ •• �V 18 JUNE 1994 SEAFARERS LOG rr—t Final Departures DEEP SEA RIVERSLY BROWN Pensioner Riversly Brown, 85, passed away April 20. , Bom in Puerto Rico, hejoined the Seafarers in 1944 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Brother Brown sailed in the steward department. He retired in July 1974. SAMUEL CARTER Samuel Carter^ 45, died April 16. A native of Philadel­ phia, he joined the SIU in 1968 in the port of New York. He sailed in both the steward and engine depart­ ments. Brother Carter upgraded at the Lundeberg School in 1986. Chicago, he joined the SIU in 1959 in the port of New York. Brother Cos­ siboin sailed in the en­ gine department. He upgraded at Piney Point in 1975. Brother Cossiboin served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1939 to 1951. He began receiving his pension in October 1982. JAMES COYLE Pensioner James Coyle, 82, passed away March 4. He joined the union in 1956 in his native New Orleans. Brother Coyle sailed in the engine department. He served in the U.S. Army from 1942 to 1945. Brother Coyle retired in April 1983. JACK CRAFT Pensioner Jack Craft, 67, died April 21. Bom in Ft. Worth, Texas, he MICHAEL CASSIDY joined the Michael CasSeafarers in sidy, 67, 1958 in the port of New York. passed away Brother Craft sailed in the April 14. steward department. He served Bom in in the U.S. Marine Corps from Flushing, 1942 to 1944. Brother Craft N.Y., he began receiving his pension in joined the March 1983. union in 1958 in the port of Jackson­ DAVID EBY ville, Fla. Brother Cassidy Pensioner sailed in the deck department. David Eby, He served in the U.S. Navy 81, passed from 1944 to 1946. iaway April MARION CIAGLO 21. A Maryland Pensioner native, he Marion joined the Ciaglo,71, SIU in 1968 died April 6. in the port of Baltimore. A Col­ Brother Eby sailed in the chester, steward department. He served Conn, na­ in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to tive, he 1945. Brother Eby retired in joined the January 1985. Seafarers in 1951 in the port of New Orleans. Brother Ciaglo HERBERTFENTRESS sailed in the deck department. He served in the U.S. Navy Pensioner from 1942 to 1945. Brother Herbert Ciaglo began receiving his pen­ Fentress, 80, sion in 1988. died March 13. He TOMMY COPELAND joined the Pensioner union in Tommy 1962 in his Copeland, native Nor­ 62, passed folk, Va. Brother Fentress away sailed in the engine department. November He began receiving his pension 15. Bom in in November 1978. Detroit, he joined the GEORGE FORREST Marine Pensioner Cooks and Stewards in 1962 in George For­ the port of San Francisco, rest, 72, before that union merged with passed away the Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and In­ March 29. land Waters District Bom in (AGLIWD). Brother Copeland Beltsville, served in the U.S. Coast Guard Md., he from 1941 to 1945. He retired joined the in August 1986. Seafarers in ROBERT COSSIBOIN 1953 in the port of New York. Brother Forrest sailed in the . Pensioner Robert Cossiboin, deck department. He served in 74, died April 8. A native of f. ^ r—5!^ >' , -1- 1944 in the port of Baltimore, Brother Lachapell sailed in the deck department. He retired in October 1985. deberg School to upgrade in 1985. He last sailed aboard the Scan, an Amsea vessel. DONALD FROUNFELTER DENIS MCGUINNESS Pensioner Denis McDonald Guinness, Frounfelter, 60, died 72, died April 21. A March 27. A New York South native, he Dakota na­ joined the tive, he Seafarers in joined the 1989 in the SIU in 1966 in the port of Seat­ port of Jacksonville, Fla. tle. Brother Frounfelter sailed Brother McGuinness sailed in in the steward department. He the deck department. He served in the U.S. Air Force upgraded at the Lundeberg from 1942 to 1963. Brother School in 1990. Brother Mc­ Frounfelter began receiving his Guinness last sailed aboard the pension in June 1991. Raleigh Bay. CHARLES GILL ERNEST PETERSON Pensioner Charles Gill, 73, Emest Peterson, 49, died April passed away March 15. He 8. A native of Washington, he joined the union in 1944 in his joined the SIU in 1992 in the native Boston. Brother Gill port of San Francisco. Brother sailed in the steward depart­ Peterson sailed in the deck ment. He upgraded at the Lun­ department. He last sailed deberg School in 1970. Brother aboard the USNS Wyman. Gill retired in August 1979. ANDRES YGAMA Pensioner Andres Ygama, 76, died April 1 A native of the Philip­ pines, he joined the SIU in 1951 in the port of New York. Brother Ygama sailed in the steward department. He began receiving his pension in Decem ber 1982. the U.S. Navy from 1940 to 1946. He retired in August 1986. CYRIL GRAB Pensioner Cyril Grab, 76, died March 31. He joined the Seafarers in his native New Or­ leans in 1958. Brother Grab sailed in the engine department. He upgraded at Piney Point in 1975. Brother Grab served in the U.S. Army from 1941 to 1945. He began receiving his pension in October 1983. RAYMOND MEJIA Pensioner Raymond Mejia,71, passed away April 2. Bom in Hon­ duras, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1958 in the port of Wilmington, Calif., }efore that union merged with the AGLIWD. Brother Mejia retired in December 1993. SAMUEL SMITH Pensioner RUTH JONES Samuel Pensioner Smith, 77, Ruth Jones, passed away 82, passed Febmary 17. away Bom in Buf­ Febmary 25. falo, N.Y., Bom in Con­ hejoined cord, N.H., the union in shejoined 954 in the port of San Francis­ the Marine co. Brother Smith sailed in the Cooks and Stewards in San steward department. He began Francisco, before that union receiving his pension in merged with the AGLIWD. ebmary 1989. Sister Jones retired in Febmary 1975. HARLES VANVOORHEES Pensioner PATRICK KEY Charles VanPensioner voorhees, Patrick Key, 75, died 76, died March 31. A March 17. A Wisconsin native of the native, he Panama signed on Canal Zone, with the he joined Seafarers in 1963 in the port of the SIU in Seattle. Brother Vanvoorhees 1967 in the port of New York. successfully completed the Brother Key sailed in the en­ )osun recertification courses at gine department. He retired in le Lundeberg School in 1983. May 1983. Je served in the U.S. Navy Tom 1941 to 1945. Brother LAWRENCE LACHAPELL Vanvoorhees retired in Decem­ Pensioner ber 1984. Lawrence MERCERS WATKINS Lachapell, 68, passed vlercers Watkins, 35, passed away March away December 31,1993. Bom 20. Bom in in Mobile, Ala., he graduated Wisconsin, Tom the trainee program at hejoined iney Point in 1978. Brother the union in Watkins retumed to the Lun­ SS; INLAND FRANCIS MILLIN Pensioner Francis Millin, 69, died March 27. He signed on with the union in 1963 in his na tive Chicago. Boatman Millin sailed in the engine department. He also sailed in the deck department in the Great Lakes division. Boatman Millin served in the U.S. Army Air Force from 1943 to 1946. He began receiving his pension in June 1986. WILLIAM CARNEY Pensioner William Car­ ney, 72, passed away April 13. The Pennsyl­ vania native joined the Seafarers in 1966 in the port of Philadel­ phia. Boatman Camey retired as a tankeiman. He also served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to 1945. Boatman Camey retired in August 1984. GREAT LAKES NELSON SPRINKETT Pensioner Nelson Sprinkett, 73, passed away April 2. Bom in Soo, Mich., hejoined the SIU in 973 in the port of Buffalo, Y. Brother Sprinkett sailed in the deck department. He retired in October 1984. RAILROAD MARINE RNESTHUGATE Pensioner Emest Hugate, 91, died April 25. A native of Mathews County, Va., hejoined the Seafarers in 1960 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Brother Hugate sailed in the deck department, le began receiving his pension in Febmary 1968. �•i•••J. • . ; •l.:„ JUNE 1994 SEAFARERS LOG Digest of Ships Meetings The Seafarers LOG aHempts to print as many digests of union ship­ board minutes as possibie. On occasion, because of space iimitadons, some will be omitted. Ships minutes first are reviemd by the union's contract depart­ ment. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG forpublir^tion. 5f:|:" • PFC JAMES ANDERSON (Maersk Lines), January 19— Chairman T. Anderson, Secretary H. Wildermuth, Deck Delegate Wayne Green, Engine Delegate Donald Lumpkins, Steward Delegate Earl Castain. Chairman praised steward department on good food and clean ship. Educa­ tional director recommended all members take advantage of upgrad ing opportunities available at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. ROBERT E. LEE(Waterman Steamship), January 9—Chairman Marvin Zimbro, Secretary Robert Bright, Mucational Direc­ tor William Thomas, Deck Delegate Donald Hood, Engine Delegate Charles Grogan, Steward Delegate John Foster. Chairman discussed new contract with crewmembers. Educational director advised members to read Seafarers LOG and upgrade skills at Piney Point. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Chairman reminded crew to be quiet in pas­ sageways. Next port: Suez, Egypt. AMERICAN CORMORANT (Osprey Shipping), February 20— Chairman V. Huelett, Secretary D.K. Goggins, Educational Direc­ tor Robert McDonald, Deck Delegate C. Patterson. Secretary requested patrolman meet vessel in next port. Educational director urged members to upgrade at Lundeberg School. No b^fs or dis­ puted OT reported. Crewmembers gave special vote of thanks to Steward/Baker Goggins, Chief Cook Robert Wright andSA MIgdalia Ortiz for great food and keeping ship clean. ULTRAMAX(Seam, Inc.), February 27—Chairman Edmund Brand, Secretary J. Thacher, Deck Delegate Daniel Gaylor, En­ gine Delegate Steven Boleware Steward Delegate Tookie Davalie. Engine delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck or steward delegates. Crewmembers requested new mattresses. Crew thanked gal­ ley gang for job well done. Crew reported mail not reaching ship in timely manner. AMERICAN FALCON(Crowley American Transport), March 21— Chairman Mike McCardie, Secretary R. Dole, Deck Delegate Edward Latimer. Chairman dis­ cussed war zone pay for time in Mogadishu, Somalia. He thanked engine department for building grill. He also thanked galley gang for good food. Crew requested patrolman meet vessel upon arrival in Charleston, S.C. No b^fs or dis­ puted OT reported. Crew asked contracts department to look into slow mail delivery to ship. CHARLES L. SHOWW (Trans­ oceanic Cable), March 30—Chair­ man J. Harrington, Secretary Brenda Kamiya, Deck Delegate Paul Latorre, Engine Delegate Clive Steward, Steward Delegate Kenneth Cahato. Chairman an­ nounced port agent to meet ship at payoff. He reported new chief mate and captain signing on and asked crewmembers to clean laundry room regularly. He also stated copy of new contract available for review by crewmembers. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked contracts department to look into improving dental benefits. Next port: St. Thomas, V.l. CONSTELLATION (Maetsk Lines), March 28—Chairman Bradford Shelly, Secretary D. Wil liams. Educational Director Leonard Strong, Deck Delegate Kevin Combs, Steward Delegate F. Umali. Educational director recommended members upgrade at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer an­ nounced $328 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew stated videotape from head­ quarters received with copies of new Seafarers LOG. They noted new weights in gym and discussed recording movies for ship's video library. Chairman advised crew­ members to conserve water while ship is in port. Next port: Sasebo, Japan. COVE LIBERTY (Cove Ship­ ping), March 27—Chairman Car­ los Spina, Secretary William Winters, Steward Delegate Joseph Patrick. Chairman reported the Seafarers LOG has been received. He advised crewmembers that ship will be making two short trips be­ tween Long Island, N.Y. and New Jersey, then begin cleanup of ves­ sel for two-week lajoip in Mobile, Ala. After layup, sWp is scheduled for trip to Egypt. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Steward delegate asked crewmembers to help keep mess hall clean. Crew re­ quested new chairs for crew lounge and hook-up of the ship's antenna. GALVESTON BAY(Sea-Land Service), March 6—Chairman Carlton Hall, Secretary Jose Rivera, Educational Director P. Kanavos, Engine Delegate Shel­ don Greenherg, Steward Delegate John Platts. Chairman announced arrival in Charleston, S!C. and ad­ vised members not to leave ship until relieved. He reminded crew of repair list posted in crew lounge. Secretary urged members to take advantage of upgrading oppor­ tunities available at Piney Point. Educational director encouraged crewmembers to attend safety meet­ ings. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew extended special vote of thanks to steward depart­ ment for,excellent food and job well done. GOPHER STATE (Interocean Management), March 25—Chair­ man Claude New, Secretary L. Sykes, Educational Director Mann Aroon, Engine Delegate John Miller. Chairman and crewmem­ bers extended vote of thanks to port agent in Norfolk, Va. for swift action in settling beefs. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked that VCR be repaired or replaced. Crew requested separate storage )in for dirty linens. Next port: Saipan. LNG TAURUS (ETC), March 20—Chairman Rohhyson Suy, Secretary Francis Ostendarp, iducational Director Daniel Brass, Deck Delegate Larry Lehner. Chairman and educational director urged members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center whenever imssible. Treasurer reported $789 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crewmembers asked contracts department to look into increasing dental coverage. Crew­ members discussed union's retire/ ment plan. Chairman announced Daniel Brass retiring after this voyage; crew will present him with gifts during a poolside party. Next K)rt: Himeji, Japan. MAJOR STEPHEN W. PLESS (Waterman Steamship), March 27—Chairman R. Hagood, Secretary E. Vieira, Educational Director G. E. Wallis, Deck Delegate R. M. Morton, Engine Delegate T. Kidd, Steward Delegate Jerry Wood. Chairman announced patrolman will meet ship in port for payoff. He noted crewmembers will be signing off and flying home from Spain. Educational director advised mem­ bers of new refrigeration program at Piney Point. Engine delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck or steward delegates. Chairman reminded members to be careful not to slam doors when entering rooms. Crew gave vote of thanks to steward department for job well done. Next port: Canary Islands. NEDLLOYD HOLLAND (SeaLand Service), March 20—Chair­ man Walter Petty, Educational Director W. Payne, Deck Delegate Robert Gruhhs, Engine Delegate Tom Barry, Steward Delegate Willie Grant. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested microwave oven for crew lounge and gave vote of thanks to galley gang for job well done. Next port: Charleston, S.C. OMI DYNACHEM(OMl), March 27—Chairman Larry Kunc, Secretary Steven Wagner, IMucational Director W. Weekley, Deck Delegate Tom Keman, Engine Delegate Nestor Martinez, Steward Delegate K.R. Kelly. Chairman noted ship scheduled for payoff upon arrival on West Coast and advised crewmembers of scheduled repair work. Treasurer asked members to rewind movies before putting them back in movie locker. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew reported "Scandal at Sea" videotape received and crew will view at next safety meet­ ing. Crew thanked steward depart­ ment for well prepared meals. Next port: Houston. OOCL INNOVATION(Sea-Land Service), March 7—Chairman John Bertolino, Secreta^ Hazel Johnson. Chairman reminded members SPADdonations make the SIU the strongest of all maritime unions. Secretary an­ nounced fresh stores available in New York upon arrival. He urged members to upgrade at Lundeberg School. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman encouraged crewmembers to write to congres­ sional representatives, urging them to save American ships from going foreign flag. He asked contracts department for clarirication of, DEU duties. Next port: Boston. OVERSEAS ALICE (Maritime Overseas), March 20—Ghairman Ron Paradise, Secretary Paul Stuhhlefleld, Educational Director Joe Spell. Secretary reminded members to have respect for fellow shipmates. He asked crewmembers to inform galley gang if unable to at­ tend a shipboard meal. Educational director advised members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center whenever pos­ sible. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman announced ves­ sel scheduled to go into shipyard. He extended special votes of thanks to deck and steward departments for jobs well done. He noted repair list submitted to captain. He reminded crewmembers to have updated ben­ zene and clinic cards with them at all times. OVERSEAS BOSTON Maritime Overseas), March 30— Chairman S. Garay, Secretary W. Iryley, Educational Director S. Vilkinson, Deck Delegate Tom lenak. Engine Delegate Robert Dehlhom, Steward Delegate ames Boss. Educational director advised members to upgrade skills as soon as possible at Piney Point. % beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward delegate reminded mem)ers to strip bunks, turn in linen and keys before signing off. Bosun thanked entire crew for good trip. He extended special thanks to steward department members for excellent meals and wiper EJ. Barron for keeping crew quarters clean. OVERSEAS VIVIAN (Maritime Overseas), March 27—Chairman Frank Cottongin, Secretary Ed Haher, Educational Director James Fonville, Deck Delegate Kevin Hare, Engine Delegate Douglas Laughlin, Steward Delegate Earl Mathews. Chair­ man discussed safety meeting with crewmembers and announced payoff in Corpus Christi, Texas. Educational director reminded members of deadline for scholar­ ship applications. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Crew discussed drug testing policy. Chairman reminded crewmembers of no smoking policy in lounge and men­ tioned that copies of new contract are available upon request. 19 les Howell. Chairman announced payoff in Long Beach, Calif. He asked contracts department to sup­ ply copy of contract for crewmem­ bers. ^ucational director advised crewmembers to upgrade at Piney Point whenever possible. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew reported copies of Seafarers LOG received. Crew discussed posting a list of movies bought each month and requested new pillows and mat­ tresses. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. SEA-LAND NA VIGATOR (SeaLand Service), March 27—Chair­ man W. Becher, Secretary J.S. Smith. Chairman advised members to keep doors locked while in port and report any needed repairs directly to him. Educational direc­ tor urged members to attend upgrading classes at Lundeberg School. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew request^ new VCR and thanked galley gang for job well done. I . - J, Birthday Celebration at Sea Celebrating his 18th birthday—complete with cake—is Steward As­ sistant Thomas "Stic" Robinson. Joining in on the festivities aboard the USNS Silas Bent are Steward Assistants Mohamed "Mae" Saleh Mohamad (left) and Eric Easter.' RALEIGH BAY(Sea-Land Ser­ vice), March 27—Chairman J.A. Martinez, Secretary Edward Col­ lins, Educational Director Paul Titus. Chairman reported payoff. Secretary stressed importance of donating to SPAD and upgrading skills at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew­ members noted videotape from union headquarters received. Crew extended special vote of thanks to galley gang for job well done. Next port: Elizabeth, N.J. ROBERT E. LEE (Waterman Steamship), March 20—ChairmaiT Marvin Zimhro, Secretary Wil­ liam Belcher, Educational Direc­ tor William Thomas, Deck Delegate Donald Hood, Engine Delegate Charles Grogan. Chair­ man reported everything going well. Educational director, dis­ cussed importance of upgrading at Piney Point. Deck delegate reported beefs. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported by engine or steward delegates. Crew thanked steward department for job well done. SEA-LAND CHALLENGER Sea-Land Service), March 13Chairman G. CorelU, Secretary H. Scypes, Educational Director Ron Smith, Engine Delegate J. Vaz­ quez, Steward Delegate Jorge Salazar. Chairman reported smooth sailing with payoff due in lizabeth, N.J. He reminded mem1 )ers to donate to SPAD and upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center. •>10 beefs or disputed OT reported. SEA-LAND LIBERATOR (Sea^and Service), March 27—Chair­ man leodulfo Alanano, Secretary F. Thomas, Educational Director Elwyn Ford, Deck Delegate Char- SEALIFT ARCTIC (IMC), March 20—Chairman Sonny Herrera, Secretary D. Clay, Educational Director E. Perriera. Educational director reminded members of im­ portance of upgrading at Lun­ deberg School. He noted scholarships available to members and their families. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Crew asked for new furniture for crew lounge. Chairman reminded members to clean up after themselves in lounge and take care of videotapes. Crew gave vote of thanks to Bosun Her­ rera and AB Prter Bean for time and effort spent on union and com­ pany affairs that have been benehcial and educational to crew. Crew thanked galley gang for job well done. SEALIFT ATLANTIC (IMC), March 20—Chairman Carlos Loureiro, Secretary Oscar An­ geles, Deck Delegate Doug Lawton, Engine Delegate Randy Snay, Steward Delegate Wendy Fearing. Chairman thanked OSs and pilot for job well done steering on the • Mississippi River. He thanked crewmembers for job well done cleaning tanks. He reminded mem­ bers to take care of laundry room and put movies back in place after use. He thanked galley gang for great meals. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade at Piney Point. Treasurer reported $50 in ship's fund. No b^fs or dis­ puted OT reported. Crew noted ice maker needs repair and new cable needed for TV antenna. Crew dis­ cussed making shelves for movies. Next port: New York. "f: fy'i , i- ' •••• i- USNS BELLATRIX(Bay Ship Management), March 16--Ghairman Bruce Korte, S^retary R. Wilcox, Educational Director Christopher IVf cKinney, Deck Delegate Joe Sausek, Engine Continued on page 20 A'-// '•-W: • �20 Ships Digest Continued from page 19 'i3k^' JUNE 1094 SEAFARERS LOG Delegate Ron Day, Steward Delegate Randy Stephens. Chair­ man noted exercise equipment for crewmembers not available aboard ship as contract states. Crew re­ quested new videotapes and VCR for engine department lounge. Chairman asked contracts depart­ ment if crew is covered by war zone pay for time in Mogadishu, Somadia. Secretary informed crew all union forms available upon re­ quest. Educational director advised members to check Seafarers LOG for upgrading information and at­ tend courses at Paul Hall Center. Deck delegate thanked OS M. Castro for keeping lounge and pas­ sageways clean. Steward delegate thanked crewmembers for coopera­ tion in keeping mess halls clean. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crewmembers stated little or no mail service reaching ship. Chair­ man asked contracts department to clarify holiday and weekend pay. He thanked crew for good voyage. Crew thanked galley gang for good meals and service. Next port: Dur­ ban, South Africa. USNS SILAS BENT(Bay Ship Management), March 25—Chair­ man R. Vazquez, Secretary B. Henderson, Educational Director Richard Larsen. Deck Delegate Andre Bernard, Steward Delegate Thomas Robinson. Chairman ^scussed upcoming quality assurance inspection in Dubai and pay draws. Secretary noted refrigerators and freezers clean, organized and temperatures normal. He added that store rooms are clean and or­ ganized. He noted fresh milk and stores are due in next port. Educa­ tional director stressed importance of upgrading skills at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer reported $64 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested new VCR and magazines for crew lounge and asked for posters, jhotos or pictures to decorate julkheads. Chairman answered questions about ship's transporting explosives. BROOKS RANGE (Interocean Management), April 3—Chairman W. Kleimola, Secretary J. Hanrahan. Deck Delegate E. O'Brien, Engine Delegate Horst Baetjer, Steward Delegate Troy Pope. Chairman advised crewmerhbers of completion of various repairs. He reminded members to care for new furniture. Secretary noted he is available to answer any questions crewmembers may have pertaining to union. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman stated patrol­ man boarded ship in Los Angeles. Crew thanked steward department for professional work done in gal­ ley. Chairman reminded members to use caution when emptying ash­ trays and to clean rooms before signing off. Crew thanked galley gang for excellent preparation of cod and halibut. CHARLESTON (Apex Marine), April 2—Chairman K.D. Jones, Steward Delegate Harry Jones. Chairman noted smoking policy discussed with patrolman in Long Beach, Calif. Secretary urged mem­ bers to donate to SPAD and upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. LNG ARIES (ETC), April 1— Chairman Monte Perira, Steward Delegate R. Brown, Educational Director J. Hoskins, Engine Delegate Dasril Panko, Steward Delegate A1 Fretta. Chairman noted telex received from company stating all safety shoe receipts must be legible and stating items received to be reimbursed. Secretary reminded crewmembers before signing off to return all linens and dishes. Educational director encouraged members to take advantage of upgrading oppor­ tunities at Lundeberg School. Treasurer reported $203 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested space for baggage similar to what the of­ ficers have. Crewmembers also dis­ cussed creating new movie policy and asked for new furniture for lounge. Crew extended special thanlu to Chief Cook Fretta and en­ tire galley gang for preparing great meals. Next port: PeyongteaJ^ South Korea. OOCL INSPIRATION(Sea-Leaid Service), April 3—Chairman B. Carrano, Secretary F. Bishop, Educational Director Eric Bain, Deck Delegate W. Dickey, Steward Delegate Eddy Usmany. Chairman announced payoff in Charleston, S.C. Educational direc­ tor advised members to upgrade at iney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked steward department for job well done. Crew reported microwave oven in crew mess area broken. Vext port: Port Everglades, Fla. ter as often as possible. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew reported "Scandal at Sea" video and Seafarers LOG received. Next port: Jacksonville, Fla. OVERSEAS OH/O(Maritime Overseas), April 13—Chairman Robert Pagan, Secretary Earl Gray Sr., Educational Director M. Ribeiro, Deck Delegate John Baker, Engine Delegate Norman Israel, Steward Delegate Duane Bergeson. Chairman compli­ mented crewmembers on excellent work. He asked crew to use one washing machine for work clothes only and reserve other for regular laundiy and dress clothes. Secretary reminded crew to use marked containers for trash and plastic. Educational director dis­ cussed importance of upgrading skills at Lundeberg School and noted family can dso accompany members. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang for job well done. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. OVERSEAS WASHINGTON (Maritime Overseas), April 6— Chairman Timothy Koebel, Secretary Robert Miller, Deck Delegate Russel Harrsen, Engine Delegate Willie Lee. Chairman urged crewmembers to write their senators and congressmen concern­ ing legislation to fund maritime revitalization program. He noted sample letter and booklet with state senator and congressmen's addres­ ses are posted for all to read. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crewmembers extended special vote of thanks to Captain O'Brien for purchasing and installing new TV and VCR in crew lounge. Crewmembers discussed using courtesy while smoking in crew lounge at designated times. Chair­ man requested movies be rewound and returned to proper cases. Next port: Nikolski, Alaska. I OVERSEAS ARCTIC (Maritime Overseas), April 15—Chairman ^oyd Ferry. Chairman announced )ayoff. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew request^ better quality furniture for crew lounge. Chairman reminded crewmembers to check dryer filter before use. Crew asked contracts department to look into improvements in den­ tal plan. Next port: Corpus Christi, Texas. SEA-LAND ACHIEVER (SeaLand Service), April 7—Chairman Paul Lewis, Secretary V. Cevedo. Educational director reminded crewmembers to clean lint screen before using dryer. He encouraged members to upgrade at the Piney Point. Treasurer stated $60 in movie fund. Deck delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegates. Crew asked con­ tracts department to look into in­ creased optical benefits. Crew thanked galley gang for clean ship and good meals served on daily basis with excellent salad bar. OVERSEAS JOVCE (Maritime Overseas), April 11—Chairman R. Bradford, Secretary L. McNutt, Educational Director Steve Hoff­ man, Deck Delegate John O'"•airell, Steward Delegate (enneth Bethea. Chairman reported payoff in Baltimore and confirmed next voyage to East Coast ports. Educational director recommended all members attend upgrading classes at Paul Hall Cen­ SEA-LAND ENDURANCE (SeaLand Service), April 10—Chair­ man T. Trehern, Secretary Ruben Galleguillos, Deck Delegate Wil­ liam Murphy. Chairman discussed upcoming lifeboat drills in port of San Francisco. Educational. delegate reminded members Piney Point training is very important. Deck delegate asked contracts department for clarification on QMED duties. No beefs or dis- Brotherhood's Memorial Service puted OT reported. Crew thanked steward department for job well done. SEA-LAND FREEDOM (SeaLand Service), April 4—Chairman Steve Copeland, Secretary C. Mosley, ^ucational Director D. Gorgios, Deck Delegate Ken ^ Hagar, Engine Delegate Melvin Layner, Steward Delegate Donald Garrison. Chairman reminded members getting off ship to take time to clean rooms for those sign­ ing on. He noted garbage room has th^ separate cans for wet gar­ bage, plastic and room trash. Educational director urged mem­ bers to take advantage of upgrad­ ing classes at Lundeberg School. Deck delegate reported disputed OT. No brefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegate. Crew reimrted "Scandal at Sea" video received and avail­ able for all to view. Crew asked contracts department for clarifica­ tion of watch standing duties as contained in new contract. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang for great meals and keeping ship clean. Next port: Singapore. SEA-LAND P>1C/F/C (Sea-Land Service), April 4—Chairman Lothar Reck, Secretary George Bronson, Educational Director Taylor Clear, Deck Delegate Julius Udan, Engine Delegate Joseph Arnold, Steward Delegate Rebecca Pouliot. Chairman urged crew to attend union meetings and remain at payoff until all beefs and disputed OT are settled. He en­ couraged members to donate to SPAD and support maritime revitalization and union activities. Secretary thanked crewmembers for assistance in keeping common areas clean. He ^k^ them to replace movies in correct orrler and lock lounge while in port. Educa­ tional dirrctor advised crew to read and learn safety policies and take active part in safety meetings. He also reminded crew to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer stated $51 in movie fiind and $345 in ship's fiind. Beef reported by engine delegate. No b^fs or disputed OT reported by deck or steward delegates. Crew Mediterranean Bound Bosun Cesar A. Gutierrez en­ joys the scenery as the OMIMis­ souri passes the Madeira Islands, Portugal while en route to Israel. received copies of Seafarers LOG. Chairman reminded members to clean rooms before leaving ship. He asked crewmembers to separate trash. Crewmembers thanked gal­ ley gang for great food. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. SHINING Sr>ll7(Sea-Land Ser­ vice), April 1—Chairman C. James, Secretary Stephanie Tor­ res, Educational Director C. Welsh, Deck Delegate G. Vargas, Steward Delegate Spencer Ryans. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crewmembers discussed marking washers and dryers to designate one for work clothes and one for street clothes. Next port: Elizabeth, N.J. Piney Point Vacation An Option for SIU Families During the hot days of summer, what better way to spend a wellearned vacation than at a waterfront setting? The Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md., the union's extensive training center, each summer makes available some of its rooms to Seafarers and their families who wish to take advantage of the facilities and location of the school. Located in St. Mary's County, which is surrounded by 400 miles of shoreline, the resort is directly situated on St. George's Creek and offers many waterbome activities and chances for fun — come rain or shine. TTiere is plenty to choose from. The facility proyides a health spa, tennis courts, Olympic-size swimming pool, sailboats and miles of captivating landscape for peaceful walks or jogs, as well as grassy picnic areas equipped with grills and tables. For those who wish to. venture outside the gates of the facility, Washington, D.C., Baltimore and Alexandria, Va. are short distances away, offering many historic and educational sights that every member of the family can enjoy. The White House, U.S. Capitol and the famous museums of theSmithsonian Institution are a mere hour-and-a-half drive from the Paul Hall Center. Only available to Seafarers and their families, Piney Point offers an exclusive note of privacy with just the right mix of entertainment. The cost of this memorable vacation for an SIU member is $40.40 per day. Spouses and children will be charged $9.45 each per day (including all meals). There is no charge for children 11 years of age or younger. The vacation stay is limited to two weeks per member and his or her family per year. So make your choice now on where to spend your summer vacation. Fill out the coupon below and mail it in to make reservations for a tranquil summer vacation at the Paul Hall Center in Southern Maryland, SEAFARERS TRAINING & RECREATION CENTER Vacation Reservation Information i Name: . ( Sociai Security number. S Book number i i . J Address: Telephone number: I, ! ! • Number in party / ages of children, if applicable:. LNG Capricorn crewmembers pay their final respects in a memorial ceremony at sea for Recertified Bosun Donald Rood. They include (from left), AB Tom Harding, QMED Vince Larimer, AB David Cavdill, AB William Rios, QMED Bobby Rice, AB Robert O'Connell, QMED Randy McKinzie, Bosun Charles Kahl, Chief Steward Robert Frazier and SA Glenn Galpin. Rood passed away October 8,1992 at the age of 72. He had requested his body be left to medical science and his ashes later buried at sea. Date of arrival: 1st choice 2nd choice: 3rd choice: (Slay is limited to two weeks) Send this completed application to the Seafarers Training & Recreation Center, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674. 6/94 �.-•• ',n " #- 1 Hr ^ ^ ^ 1&(-^<^ fF * «»v ^ HCF 1^ -r- ^ t K - -V. v-..--.y..^,,^.-....,vi^a;-... JUNE 1994 • -JiA •: :.%,iyi^: When mariners are part of the crew of the U.S. military's prepositioning fleet, they have to be ready to sail, fully loaded, at a moment's notice. That is why while the Military Sealift Command's (MSG) prepositioning fleet, based off Diego Garcia, waits at anchor. Seafarers utilize the time maintaining the ships for the highest degree of readiness. Many prepositioning ships are loaded with cargo for the U.S. Marine Corps, making them ready for use when the troops are called out. A key asset in the logistics plan of the U.S. armed forces, the preposition­ ing fleet is made up of privately owned American-flagged vessels which are based in Diego Garcia and ready to set sail inunediately after activation. Located in the hot climate of the British Indian Ocean Territories, Diego Garcia is a small island that is home to a key U.S. Navy support facility. On any given day, there may be several American-flag nerican-flaj ships under charter to MSG anchored off the island. On a recent trip to Diego Garcia to meet with Seafarer crewmembers, SIU representative Sal Aquia found that the long distance away from the U.S. in no means diminishes the inter­ est of SIU members in the legislative and union affairs which impact on their employment. "Many Seafarers asked about the status of the bill going through the House [of Representatives] that will assure some degree of government support for the U.S.-flag commercial fleet," said Aquia, who also provided these photos. The painting and chipping detail aboard the American Osprey takes a break for a photo. From the left are Bosun Tom Gagnon, AS Steve Grier and Pumpman Art Maxwell. Keeolno an eve on the enqineroom board of ^eA/r7e/7ca.n/<es/re/AS T.T.Larson grabs a snack on the Cobb, Operating a crane aboard the Bosun Jerry Smith stands by to - Antionette • ^076003/7 Kbsf/e/ls AB Wos Elllott. handle cargo on the/Cesrre/. one of' many ships in Diego riar^ia Garcia. is Oiler Strauch. •i; • •T - Aflercompletingdeckduties.ABMarkHalbergis ready Duties in the galley for SA Jimmy Cordova include Asst Cook UtiHty Michael Watts stirs soup while preparing lunch aboard .* A ? uXQ.L^pL LOUIS tiaUyO. checking the ice machine rki-i on the ^ianollo Gianella for a meal aboard• the American Osprey. '•••• A-: . It takes a big pot to handle meals for the crew aboard the Alex Bonnyman-as g(iSt) and Chief cSull^MaffiolL Chief Cook Ed Aperto shows. .r: la is'chiJ Cook Martin Ketchem. • �22 MIHE1994 SEAFARBtSLOG Limdeberg School Graduating Classes Upcraders Lifeboat—With instructor Ben Cusic (center) is Chris Buffone, who completed the two-week upgraders lifeboat class Trainee Lifeboat Class 524—Graduating from trainee lifeboat class 524 are (from left, kneeling) Jon Bednarczyk, Michael Edwards, Thomas Chesney, Robert W. Elliott Jr., KimTye, Rasl^em McDowe l, Chad Cunningham, (second row) Ben Cusic (instructor), Louis Cruz, Darren Roberts, Claudell Blakeiy Jr., Anton Sulic, Patrick Burke, Shanti Wolph and James Atwell. Celestial Navigation—Graduating from the celestial navigation course in April are (from left) Jeffrey Sousa, Robert Seltmann, Shannon Teem, Neal Doucet, Richard Morris and Jake Karaczynski (instructor). Bridge Management/Radar—-Upgrading members of the deck cfepartment completing the bridge management and radar course dine—Completing the welding course on April 18 are (from left, kneeling) William Carlin, Celina on March 24 are (from left, first row) Damian Krowteki, Jeffrey Sou^ Weldin Jeffey Sousa (second row) William McClure (instructor), Leroy Williams, Herman Manzer, Maria William ^stianelli, (second row) David Dorrell, Douglas Blasius and Jim Butler, Jefi._, ,, , . Photiou, Ed Rynberg, (third row) Neil Carter, Phillip McKenzie and Eric Sutton •- *• . ':; v-K Marine Electrical Maintenance—The April 19 graduates of the marine electrical maintenance class are (from left) Jason Crist, Lawrence Rose, Robert Rudd, Hal Puckett, Eric Malzkuhn (instructor) and James Gibson. Not pictured are Marsha Dawson, Laurence Croes and Mark Lawrence. .C-j- Refrigeration Maintenance and Operations—Receiving their certifica­ tion in iwriTOration systems maintenance and operations on April 15 are (center, kneeling) Daniel Powers, (from left, seated) Geoffrey Denesse,Milton Greene, Jos6 Quiriones, Se^ Nolan, Paul Barbadilk), (standing) J.C. Weigman (instructor), Lonnie Carter, John Beard, Chris Zubowicz and Ralph Gosnell. . �SEAFAttERS LOG JUNE 1994 23 v.- -if, UaWEBBIG SCMIOL 1994 WCBADIKG COmSE SOIEDULE RecertHlcatlonPmgrams The following is the course schedule for classes beginning between July and December 1994 at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship located at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. All programs are geared to improve job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. The course schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—^in times of conflict—^the nation's security. Course Check-In Date Completion Date Bosun Recertiflcation October 3 November? Steward Recertification July 5 Augusts - SlewanI Upgrading Courses Course Course Able Seaman Check-£h Date CompletidiK Date Assistant Cook, Cook and Baker July 15 September 9 August 26 October 21 C^ef Cook, Chief Steward •' '•'I-"'-f' Completion Check-In Date • . Dat® Contact admissions office for starting da^ Contact admissions office for starting dates '• ; :v;|x:y^-V . All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. Bridge Management (Shiphandltog) -" ' : Radar Certification July 29 October 21 July 22 August 19 September 16 October 14 July 29 August 26 September 23 October 21 Julyl September 9 August 12 October 21 sSSpal Limited License, Part 1 September 26 pctober 7 Limited License, Part 2 Julys October 10 July 15 October 21 July 18 October 24 July 29 November 4 , Limited License, Part 3 #ii August 12 5 November 4 ilil Check-In Date Conipleti^ Date Firenmn^atertender Scpteni^ 12 October21 Refri^j^tibhl^^ & Operations August 1 September 9 Punip>uont Maint. & Operations September 5 Ocpri^ 14 Hydranlira Marihe Electrical Maintenance (hiitober 3 November 28 Julys August 26 Crane Maintenance September 12 October 21 Wriding Pctober 24 November 18 Course All stu^k^s fhm take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. October 21 August 1 QMED - Any Rating -•:KaSai l994MuHEdueaVM Schalule Sal^ Specialty Cifmsiss Course ' Oil Spill Prevention and Containment 'S- K. . ^ - Lifeboatman jSasic/Advanced Fire F^hting Biialift Operations & Maintenance Check-In Date Completion Date July! August26 October 21 Julys September 2 October 28 July 15 August 12 August 26 September 9 October? July 29 August 26 September 9 September 23 October 21 • July22 Julys September 16 September 30 November 25 DecemberO Augusts July 11 Septi^berS September 30 (Midae) (First) (Street) (Zip Code) (State) (City) Date of Birth. Telephone _I (AieaCode). (Month/Day/Year) Inland Waters Member D Lakes Member D Deep Sea Member• Course GED Preparation Adult Basic Education (ABE) Check-In Date V -viif Jiij •• - Completion Date 12 werira - open-ended admission 6 weeks ^ open-ended admission English as a Seqmd Language (E$L) 6 weeks - open-endbd admission Developmental Studies July 11 August 22 September 5 July 15 August 26 September 9 Session m September 12 November 4 Primary language spoken UPOUUUHG APPUIMTIOH Name. (Last) Address. The following courses are available through the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School. Please contact the admissions office for enrollment information. With this application, COPIES of your discharges must be submitted showing suffi­ cient time to qualify yourself forthe course(s) requested. You also must submit a COPY of each of the following: the first page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, your clinic card and the front and back of your z-card as well as your Lundeberg School identification card listing the course{s) you have taken and com-' pleted. The Admissions Office WILL NOT schedule you until all of the above are received. BEGIN END COURSE DATE DATE If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security #. Book # Seniority ——— —- Department U.S. Citizen: DVes • No Home Port. Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held Are you a graduate of the SHLSS trainee program? If yes, class # Have you attended any SHLSS upgrading courses? / Rating:. LAST VESSEL: Date On:. • Yes • Yes .DATE GNO SIGNATURE. • No Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. '' If yes, course(s) taken. Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? • Yes • No Firefighting: • Yes • No CPR: • Yes Date Off:. • No RETURN COMPLETED APPUCATION TO: Lundeberg Upgrading Center, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674. 6/94 ) a V %• •• • i- �SEAmREMtS SEAFARERS Have youplanned your summer vacation yet? The Lundeberg School can provide you andyour family with all the ingredients for an exciting vacation. For details and rates, seepage 20. .''' Seafarers Bring Home Last GIs from Somalia Marchman added that the steward ment to shuttle U.S. troops from tion Restore Hope. You steamed Seafarers carried the last contin­ and landed approximately 500 yards gent of U.S. soldiers to serve in from the ship. Captain Peter J^es department, headed by Chief Steward Mogadishu to Mombasa adds a new quickly toSomalia adding significant flexibility to the U.S. withdrawal Somalia on the first leg of their trip ordered the crew to turn off the lights, Tannous "Tony" Bachir, was in­ and unique chapter. "The. superb performance of the plan. Your presence and the secure the ship and come inside im­ comparable. "The galley gang served home in March. between 400 and 500 people per Empire State and her crew under dif­ capability you brought to this mission The SlU-crewed Empire State mediately," said Marchman. On the night of March 22, after voyage in sometimes adverse condi­ ficult and potentially dangerous con­ added immeasurably to its ultimate departed the port of Mogadishu on March 24 with approximately 400 troops had been loaded for the final tions. They really outdid themselves ditions reflects with great pride the success." At the request of the United Na­ soldiers, marking the end of U.S. voyage to Kenya, the vessel came with the excellent meals and frieiidly capability and willingness of this nation's merchant marinCTS to carry on tions, U.S. military forces led an in­ armed forces support for the United under fire for the second time. A service," he said. the tradition of service to the country. ternational effort to bring food and Nations' operation to feed starving single mortar round was fired into the Crew Commended "Feedback from our DOD cus­ peace to the war-ravaged nation. Two port and once again landed ap­ Somalians. "It's amazing what fresh milk and tomers, the troops and their unit com­ years of civil war, as well as many The converted freighter, operated proximately 500 yards from the Em­ ice cream can do to boost morale and mander, was extremely positive and more years of famine and drought by the Military Sealift Command pire State. The U.S. Marines guarding the cheer people up. The Army guys real­ appreciative in all respects. 1 wish to caused an estimated 600,000 people (MSG), was used to transport American troops from the port of port returned the fire, which was wit­ ly appreciated us and seemed to love add my personal thanks and gratitude to die. At the height of the interven­ Mogadishu to Mombasa, Kenya, nessed by many of the crewmembers the family-like atmosphere that we to all those on board the Empire State tion in December 1992, a total of 17 helped create," recalled Marchman. for a very successful mission. You are SlU-crewed vessels were involved in from where they were then flown who were safely aboard ship. "We were frightened but knew In a telegram sent to the ship on its truly to be congratulated. Your pride the relief effort. back to the United States. As soon as other Army and "We were all extremely proud to that we were well-protected, and no return voyage to the United States, and professionalism reflects greatly have helped in bringing home one got hurt," noted the chief purser. Maritime Administrator Albert Her- on each of you as well as the U.S. Marine units began arriving via air­ berger stated, "The United States Merchant Marine. Well done and lift, other SlU-crewed prepositioning American troops on an AmericanGroup Camaraderie vessels were waiting to offload flagged vessel, crewed by American Merchant Marine has a long and welcome home!" merchant mariners. I still get chills Also in a telegram to the ship, trucks, tractors, ready-to-eaf meals, "The troops really appreciated us proud history of supporting our just thinking about how grateful they and that felt good. We all went out of military forces wherever deployed. MSG head Vice Admiral William medical supplies and other materiel. Also csdled into duty by MSG to were," Chief Purser Winston "Bud" our way tohelp them feel comfortable The activation of the training ship Kalleres stated, "You can take great Marchman told a reporter from the and happy during the voyage to Empire State and subsequent assign­ pride in your contributions to Opera- assist the offloading of goods were SlU-crewed, roll-on/roll-off vessels. Mombasa where they would catch Seafarers LOG. Almost 97,000 U.S. military person­ On January 3, the ship was called their flight home. The camaraderie nel served ashore in Somalia during into action and began receiving stores and friendship between the ser­ Operation Restore Hope and more to feed the troops and crewmembers vicemen and the crewmembers was than 95 percent of the supplies and during the withdrawal. amazing," recalled Marchman. equipment to support operations used "We were all very proud to be a On January 17, the Empire State in the effort were moved there aboard sailed out of New York for part of the effort to bring our MSG ships. Mogadishu via the Suez Canal. The American boys home. There was a According to MSG, the last vessel arrived safely in Somalia on great sense of pride in America and military cargo ship, the SlU-crewed February 7. Between February and the troops who participated in the American Condor, pulled out of March 27, the vessel made four runs operation." Mogadishu a half hour before the Em­ (each taking three days) between He noted that all departments did pire State, carrying 50,000 square Mogadishu and Mombasa, transport­ an excellent job going above and feet of supplies and equipment. ing a total of 1,618 U.S. military per­ beyond the usual excellent perfor­ Other SlU-crewed vessels that sonnel. The EmpireState sailed from mance of Seafarers. "The deck remained in Somalia until the end of Mombasa for the last time on March department, headed by Bosun Sidney U.S. armed forces support included 27 and returned to the port of New Wallace, kept the ship immaculate Chief Steward Tannous Tony" Bachir arranges Jumbo shrimp in the Advantage, American Falcon, York on AprillS. while the engine department main­ USNSDenebola and USNS Bellatrix. tained the vessel's superior engines." preparation for a cookout aboard the SlU-crewed Empire State. Hostile Conditions te| JW'T- -. ?, V'^ Due to the danger of the hostile fire zone in Mogadishu, crewmem­ bers were allowed to leave the ship only during daylight hours to walk on the piers. Crewmembers were never to leave the port area. "There was a lot of fear while in port even though we were always safe," recalled Marchman. He noted that there was a U.S. Marine Corps sniper team on board and Apache helicopters circling above the vessel at all times. Even when departing the ship for a stroll in port, crewmembers were advised to wear a flak jacket and helmet. Marchman added that the crew was cautioned to stay within the inside skin of the ship and favor the seaward side when moving about the weatherdecks. On two separate occasions, the Empire State came under mortar fire A sniper team on the deck of the ABs Fred Freeman (left) and Prior to the voyage back to the United States, American GIs get a while in port. "On the night of March Empire State keeps a lookout as Paulo Castillo take a moment to taste of home-cooking as prepared by the SlU galley gang in the Empire State's officers' mess. 14, two rounds were fired into the port American troops board the ship. enjoy the fresh air on deck. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 1990-1999 Description An account of the resource Volumes LII-LXI Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993; Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource June 1994 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES HALL LECTURER CALLS ON INDUSTRY TO ADOPT A ‘BROAD’ APPROACH IN CRAFTING PROGRAM FOR FLEET 50 YEARS LATER, SEAFARERS RECALL D-DAY MASSIVE, DARING INVASION OF NORMANDY LED TO VICTORY FOR ALLIES SIY ANNOUNCES SEVEN 1994 SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS SHIP BILL NEARS HOUSE FLOOR SENATOR BREAUX WANTS MORE SHIPS IN PROGRAM; MARITIME UNIONS URGE SENATE PANEL TO BACK PLAN UNIONS ANNOUNCE SUPPORT TO END EXPORT BAN ON ALASKAN OIL PAUL HALL CENTER TO CONDUCT EPA-MANDATED COURSES QMEDS AND OTHER ENGINE DEPT. SEAFARERS NEED REFRIGERANT CERTIFICATION BY NOV. 14 LUNDEBERG SCHOOL BRINGS OIL SPILL TRAINING TO SAN JUAN NATION PAYS ITS RESPECTS TO AMERICA’S MARINERS BURNERS LIT ON NEW CHIEF COOK PILOT PROGRAM SIX SIU MEN CLIMB TO TOP DECK DEPT. RUNG; CLASS ENCOURAGES OTHER MEMBERS TO UPGRADE UNIONS STAND FIRM AGAINST TAXING HEALTH CARE BENEFITS SEAFARERS MOURN DEATH OF JOHNNY JOHNSTON, WHO RESTORED MANITOU ADMIRAL GEORGE H. MILLER DIES; WAS FIGHTER FOR MERCHANT SHIPS SEAFARERS CARRIED ALLIED WAR EFFORT TO NORMANDY A BROAD APPROACH IS NEEDED TO REBUILD U.S. FLEET, SAYS RESPECTED SHIP OPERATOR SIU-CREWED SUGAR ISLANDER DELIVERS FOOD TO WAR-RAVAGED AFRICAN NATION SIU SHIPS STAND READY IN DIEGO GARCIA SEAFARERS BRING HOME LAST GIS FROM SOMALIA Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 06/01/1994 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 66, No. 6 1994 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/34874a336008eea8c62fe92d2c14f6bc.PDF 8796d87c4e17b52605818fe47ae08ffa PDF Text Text ...4. i''i' • ,A Volume 56. Number S May 1994 Nixon Dies Senate Panel Takes Up DOT'S Maritime Plan Pages Richard M. Nixon, who was respected as the "maritime president" because of the hope and support he gave U.S. shipping, died iast month at the age of81. Pages. Agencies, Union Exanijine Surge Shipping Needs >';• 3ZCO:/)J>r> C3GM»0^ to 2: Tli/I-ITJ HCDCD tocD^rto 'Jl H70 to IjJ r>3r-» toj> -,j mo-112: omj>o I 4> 00 NJ ri' a n. OJ: i/> O am o m3>. X) jcm • -'-iS.. • .. •••Vo: \A �I '' • ®V V-,' 2 MAY 1994 SEAFMERSLOG President's Report Meeting U.S. Readiness Needs I '*" X. K- ••-<•••'• |. i3'X:Sv-Xly-^ r"'' Being prepared for any emergency is the hallmark of any intel­ ligent, responsible operation. Certainly this is true of the nation's defense system. The people with responsibilities for various aspects of the nation's security must exercise the maximum foresight and care to ensure that U.S. defense systems meet readi­ ness objectives and sustainment options. In this regard, there is some discussion taking place in the defense sector, the ad­ ministration and Congress on how to main­ tain adequate crews with sufficient skills to Michael Sacco man the sealift ships that traditionally have been operated and maintained by private U.S. shipping companies and American seamen throughout America's wars and conflicts. Clearly, those responsible for the nation's security must have skilled merchant crews in sufflcient numbers to meet the demands of surge shipping in the event of a military caU-up. From the standpoint of the SIU, we are acutely aware of our responsibility to provide manpower to sealift ships in operation and to those that are activated in times of emergency, among them vessels from the government's Ready Reserve Force, known as the RRF. < This union is determined to continue to assure the United States Armed Forces a pool of qualified, professional seamen who not only will man the sealift ships ofthe Military Sealift Command, but who also are available for RRF vessel positions when those ships are broken out. It is the SIU's belief that good coordination and problem-solv­ ing must be managed by a single government agency for an issue of this scope. To coordinate the country's RRF crewing opera­ tion, the SIU recommends that the Maritime Administration serve as lead agency. With one agency in charge, all concemed groups can work productively to make sure that a plan and pro­ gram are in place which guarantee the swift manning of activated ships. The SIU believes that the rotary system of shipping practiced by maritime unions and U.S.-flag commercial companies with which they have collective bargaining agreements is the best guarantee of having sufficient crewmembers for any number of ships used in a military activation. That is one of the reasons why the U.S. must have a comprehensive maritime program which ensures that the nation has enough ships — containerships, tankers, bulkers, passenger vessels and so on. The more U.S.-flag ships, the more working seamen and the more people who can be called on to crew sealift operations. The union also recognizes that many of the nation's sealift ships have functions and systems and tasks not duplicated in com­ mercial shipping. For the past 10 years, the SIU has been train­ ing Seafarers in those procedures that are part of military ship operations. For instance, SIU members have become trained and experienced in underway replenishment procedures, helicopter directions, forklift handling, Hagglunds crane maneuvers and much more. Not only are these skills applicable to the vessels of the Military Sealift Command, but they dso proved worthwhile when the RRF ships were broken out during Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm. In the months ahead, the union will put forth many ideas on what can be done to ensure the military's surge shipping require­ ments are met at the time of activation and sustained through any prolonged engagement. The SIU believes it has many positive contributions to make in this regard. With its accumulated ex­ perience since World War II of activations associated with Korea, Viemam and, most recently. Desert Shield/Desert Storm, the SIU has seen what works and where there are glitches. To this end, the SIU will work with all groups—such as the Department of Defense, the Department of Transportation and its Maritime Administration, shipping companies and other maritime unions—that share a concern for ensuring the United States has enough dependable, skilled seamen to meet the U.S. military's transport readiness needs. Volume 56. Number 5 May 1994 The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 0160-2047) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District; AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, Md. 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Second-class postage paid at MSG Prince Georges, Md. 20790-9998 and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, Md. 20746. Managing Editor, Daniel Duncan; Associate Editors,Jor­ dan Biscardo and Corrina Christensen; Associate Editor/Production, Deborah A. Hirtes; Art, Bill Brower. Agau^, Unions £xaffllfie Surge Shinting Demands Ensuring that government- mitted a joint statement announc­ Forces that RRF ships will be owned, laid-up ships can be ing support for the GAG's con­ swiftly crewed when activated The agency's director of policy crewed with qualifled seamen ference objectives. and plans, Bruce Carlton, said the when those vessels are suddenly Unions Have 'Vital Role' first step toward securing an activated is a top priority of U.S SIU Vice President for Con­ available pool of seamen for RRJF maritime unions and a number of agencies within the government. tracts Augustin Tellez advised the ships is for Congress to enact anc In times of conflict, the U.S meeting participants that the SIU the president to sign into law, the government has brokeh out laid-up and the NMU have been in con­ Department of Transportation's ships from its fleet of former com­ tinuing discussions on the matter. program known as the "Maritime mercial ships. During Operation He distributed the joint statement Security Program" which Desert Shield and Desert Storm, and quoted from it when he said, provides for some subsidies anc the government activated 79 ships "Naturally, the unions, as repre­ other aids to a key segment of the from this source, the Ready sentatives of the workers in­ U.S.-flag fleet. volved in any break-out of the Reserve Force (RR^. Maintain RRF Ships Crewing readiness require­ nation's shipping capability, have Carlton also suggested that ments of the RRF were examined a vital role to play in whatever certain RRF ships be maintained by representatives of unions plan evolves. "We think the record will in a reduced operating status which have sea-going members, officials of the Department of point up the fact that the unions' (RGS) with 10 crewmembers Defense (DOD) and the Depart­ apparatus land hiring hall aboard a vessel to maintain its ment of Transportation's Maritime mechanisms have worked well in equipment and ensure that all Administration (MarAd), the U.S. meeting the requirements of shipboard systems are function­ Coast Guard, American shipping surge shipping as recently as a ing. He noted that RGS crewing company executives, heads of few years back in Gperation creates jobs." He said, "This is a maritime academies and marine Desert Shield/Desert Storm," way of keeping people in the in­ dustry Gnly by keeping jobs policy experts at a conference on Tellez said. April 5 in Washin^on, D.C. or­ The DGD representative at the in the industry are we going to ganized by the Nationd Security conference reiterated the impor­ keep people available. The GAG's representatives and International Affairs Division tance of the civilian operations to of the OovOTiment Accounting Of­ the military's sealift needs. James indicated the recommendations fice (GAG). Johnson, director of the projec­ and thoughts of the conference The purpose of the meeting tion forces division of the assis­ paiticipants would be compiled was to assess "new ways ... to tant secretaiy of defense, said that and circulated to interested quickly crew ships" from the one of DGD's "primary policies policy-makers in Congress and RRF, the GAG said in a press is to use the commercial sector to the administration. statement in advance of the con­ the maximum extent possible for The SIU and the NMU, Tellez ference. transportation policy." He noted advised the GAG and the meeting's At the conference, the SIU and this process is a "wise use of tax- attendees, would continue discus­ the National Maritime Union >ayer dollars." sions "with the puipose of develop(NMU), which together represent MarAd is recommending ing positive and innovative Ae vast majority of unlicensed several immediate steps be taken approaches to a resolution" of the seamen in the United States, sub­ in order to assure the U.S. Armed issue of crewing RRF ships. Five Times Mere Oil Spilled By Pipelines Than Tankers The nation's pipelines spilled sive data on pipelines told the panies, on the other hand, must 3.1 million gallons of oil in 1993, committee that pipelines account report all spills over one gallon, an amount five times that which for more oil spillage than any or which produce a visible sheen was emitted by tankers, reports other form of transport. Robert B. on watersor which result in injury the study of a respected oil spill Rackleff, who is regarded as an or $100 in damages. watch group which was high­ authoritative source on pipeline Rackleff recommended that lighted in a number of news ac­ safety because of his detailed re­ pipelines be required to have a counts last month. search on the issue, said, "Gil double wall with continuous leak Tanker spills in 1993 ac­ pipelines spill or leak the detection mechanisms installed in counted for an accumulated equivalent of an Exxon Valdez ones that carry hazardous liquids 619,500 gallons, with no single spill every year in America, on through environmentally sensi­ spill over 1 million gallons (die average, year after year." tive or populous areas. Double definition of a major spill by skin pipelines "can offer en­ regulatory standards), the Gil In­ Most Dangerous Transport Form hanced protection much the same telligence Report study said. Rackleff warned Congress as double-hull tankers, doubleThe most oil released in a single that "petroleum pipelines are far wall underground storage tanks pipeline accident was on March 28, more dangerous and unreliable and secondary containment of 1993 near Reston, Va. There, than both the industry and above-ground storage tanks," 407,0(X) gallons of diesel fuel es- regulators claim." He pointed out said Rackleff. Pipelines transporting natural cap^ from the Colonial pipeline, that Colonial spokesmen had pouring into the Potomac Wver and claimed pipelines were the safest gas and other materials recently saturating surrounding land. and most trouble-free form of oil have come under scrutiny as well, That accident brought to the transport. Yet 1991 and 1992 data as a result of several serious acci­ fore an industry that many claim indicate that Colonial pipeline dents. Gn March 24 of this year, is not adequately regulated. At "alone spilled more than did all close to 10 apartment buildings congressional hearings two the tankships and barges were destroyed by a pipeline-re­ lated blast in Edison, NJ. In the months after the Colonial acci­ throughout the United States." month before, a gas leak from a dent, pipeline experts and en­ The recently released study by pipeline/barge facility for an­ vironmental scientists joined Gil Spill Intelligence Report federal, state and local officials in found that every year twice as hydrous ammonia fertilizer in St. calling for more stringent con­ much crude oil is carried by Louis killed one worker and injured another. trols on pipeline operations. pipelines than by waterbome The SIU has long been con­ Pipeline leaks, ruptures and transport. However, marine cemed with the dangers posed by other failures result in damaged petroleum transport is far more pipelines. The union is part of the natural resources, loss of life, in­ highly regulated than the Florida Alliance, a coordinating juries, long-term illnesses, fires, transport of oil and related organization which works to disruptions tocommunities, toxic products by pipeline. prevent further invasion of fumes and groundwater con­ For example, pipeline com­ Florida communities by pipelines tamination, noted the witnesses at panies must report spills or lealu and to secure safety standards for hearings which took place on of more than 2,100 gallons, or the nation's pipeline systems that May 18,1993. which amount to $5,000 or more will minimize the risks and A writer and environmental in damages or which result in in­ dangers now present in this activist who has compiled exten­ juries or death. Tanker com­ method of oil transport. �V • •• • --ii'. MAY 1994 SEAFARERS LOG 3 'S:. Senate Panel Tackles DOT Shin Bill Thp. r^lifiton arlminicf-rafi^m The Clinton administration presented its program to revital­ ize the U.S.-flag merchant fleet to the Senate when Transportation Secretary Federico Pena and Maritime Administrator Albert Herberger testified before the body's Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee on April 25. The hearing marked the first time the Senate has taken up the Maritime Security and Trade Act of 1994 (S. 1945). The House Mer­ o-.i _ chant Marine Subcommittee started hearings on March 17 (seven days after Pena introduced the legislation at a Washington press conference) on the same bill, called H.R. 4003 in that body. In their remarks. Senators Ernest Rollings (D-S.C.), the committee chairman; John Breaux (D-La.), chairman of the Senate Merchant Marine Sub­ committee; Trent Lott (R-Miss.), ranking minority member of the i « « ». subcommittee; and Ted Stevens (R-Alaska) announced their sup­ port for the program. The senators noted the n^ to have such legis­ lation enacted by the end of the year, - - . port, the duties would rise from costly to nine cents per registered tonnage maintain to 24 cents. For those entering a would be U.S. port from all other foreign scrapped with destinations, the cost would in­ the funds crease from 27 cents to 71 cents. being placed No fees would be collected from within the 10-Year Program vessels after their first five visits revitalization As outlined by Pena, S. 1945 to the U.S. each year, as is cur­ program. (as well as H.R. 4003) would pro­ rently the case. Herberger Sen. Breaux noted such a vide $1 billion over a 10-year Seek More Ships period beginning in Fiscal Year plan could be done. 1995 to help fund the operations While the senators announced Still another idea brought for­ of up to 52 U.S.-flag liner vessels they could support the program as ward by several senators called involved in foreign trade. If written, they asked the secretary for DOD to provide some funding passed, the program would begin if means as the ships in the program must October 1. It would be imple­ could not be be militarily useful. mented on a gradual basis. found to fiind More hearings are scheduled and include for the Maritime Security and Companies whose ships qualify to be included in a soeven more Trade Act. As the Seafarers LOG called "Maritime Security, Pro­ ships. The was going to press on April 28, gram" would receive $2.5 million legislators the House Merchant Marine Sub­ per ship per year for the first three pre­ committee was gathering tes­ then years, dien $2 million per ship per sented some timony on the funding year through Fiscal Year 2004. Sen. Hollings of their ideas. mechanism of the bill and pos­ In order to be eligible for the One plan sible alternatives. The Senate program, companies would agree called for in­ Merchant Marine Subcommittee either to make their ships avail­ creasing the taxes on passenger had scheduled a meeting for May able to the Defense Department tickets for cruise ships leaving 4 to discuss the legislation with (DOD) or provide space on board U.S. ports or on containers loaded maritime industry officials. such vessels for DOD cargo or offloaded at U.S. docks. Pena The House of Representatives during national emergencies. T^e noted these proposals had been is expected to hold floor debates vessels must remain active in considered when the bill was on its version of the act during the foreign commerce and be no being written, but the tonnagefee summer. H.R. 4003 replaces for more than 15 years old. increase was the least objec­ consideration H.R. 2151 which Pena proposed funding for the tionable. However, he did not rule was passed last November in a program by increasing tonnage out further reflection. bipartisan show of support by a fees to bring in an additional $100 Lowering the size of the 347-65 margin. H.R. 2151 only Secretary of Transportation Federico Pena (left), accompanied by million a year. For those ships Ready Reserve Force (RRF) fleet outlined a maritime revitalization Maritime Administrator Albert Herberger, outlines the administration's entering a U.S. port from a nearby was proposed. Breakbulk ships plan without providing a specific Western Hemisphere foreign considered too old to sail or too funding mechanism. program for the committee. President Nixen, Architect ef '70 Shipping Act, Dies at 81 Former President Richard M ing nations, adversely impactec Nixon, whose administration in­ the results of the 1970 law. spired hope and employment op­ Addressed Seafarers portunities by formulating the Nixon addressed the 1973 U.S.-flag maritime program for the 1970s, died April 22, four convention of the Seafarers In­ days after suffering a major ternational Union of North America. stroke. He was 81 years old. In introducing him to the In 1970, his administration, led by Commerce Secretary delegates, SlU President Paul Maurice Stans and Maritime Ad­ Hall said that Nixon had done ministrator Andrew Gibson, more to advance the interests of worked with maritime unions, American mariners and U.S. shipping companies and American shipping than any Congress to pass into law the other president in his lifetime as first comprehensive legislation a seaman and union repre­ President Richard Nixon addresses the 1973 SlUNA Convention in Washington as Seafarers President dealing with the U.S.-flag mer­ sentative. Paul Hall (right) listens. On the platform with the president are (from left) SlU Secretary-Treasurer In addressing the Seafarers, Joseph DiGiorgio, SlU Representative John Yarmola, Maritime Administrator Robert Blackwell and chant fleet since 1936. The Merchant Marine Act of Nixon reaffirmed his call for a Commerce Secretary Frederick Dent. 1970 authorized federal funds to strong U.S.-flag fleet. "I am for a strong American running mate on the Republican 1968 campaign promise to committee of the House of Rep­ finance a portion of theconstruc­ merchant marine because if the ticket. The pair won an over­ rebuild the U.S.-flag fleet. The resentatives had started im­ tion cost over a 10-year period United States, wherever there is whelming victory, making group presented a report on the peachment proceedings. Nixon for 2(00 new cargo vessels to be a crisis, is going to be dependent Nixon the second youngest vice president's record that read: used in foreign trade. The bill resigned the presidency in on some other country, no matter president in history. They were also provided tax deferments to "The four years of the Nixon August 1974. shipping operators to help how friendly it may appear to be re-elected four years later. As president, Nixon not only administration have been a time finance new vessels for foreign, at the moment, as our lifeline, helped the merchant marine, he United States Nixon claimed the GOP of progress for the coastwise and Great Lakes ser­ then we had better watch out. also restored diplomatic rela­ Merchiant Marine, the maritime nomination for president in "Let's always be dependent 1960, but was narrowly defeated industry and its related fields. tions with China, signed a vice; extended construction and operating subsidies for bulk car­ on the United States of America by John F. Kennedy. He returned There is positive evidence that strategic arms limitation treaty riers; turned over enforcement of whenever we have that kind of a to California and ran for gover­ the nation will be restored to a with the Soviet Union and cargo preference to the Com­ crisis," Nixon said. nor in 1962. Again, he lost and position of importance among reached an agreement to end the merce Department (which then as considered finished in maritime powers of the world. It war in Viemam. Navy Veteran oversaw the Maritime Ad­ Years after his resignation, translates into jobs for American Bom in Yorba Linda, Calif., politics. ministration); required all com­ seafarers, shipbuilders and re­ Nixon again came back to the Mounts Comeback ponents of U.S.-flag vessels be Nixon served in the U.S. Navy national scene. His counsel, lated maritime workers." during World War II. Shortly made and assembled in America especially on foreign policy, was However, he mounted a Negotiated Arms Pact and set up a system to phase out after returning home and joining comeback and wrested the 1968 sought by every president who a law firm, he was elected to the runaway-registiy fleets. Nixon captured all but one occupied the Oval Office since Republican presidential nomina­ When he signed the bill, U.S. House of Representatives in tion. The California native beat state and the District of Colum­ he left. He wrote several books, which received overwhelming 1946. Four years later, Califor- Democrat Hubert Humphrey and bia in winning the 1972 election. traveled abroad and established a support from both houses of nians elected him to the U.S. Independent George Wallace for But that victory was tainted by a reputation as an elder statesman. Congress, in October 1970, Senate. the White House. During the burglary at the Democratic Na­ Only a month before his death, Nixon madea name for himself campaign, Nixon pledged his tional Committee, located in the he had traveled to Russia to meet Nixon said the legislation would prove "American labor and in Washington as a member of the support to rebuild die U.S.-flag Watergate complex in with its political leaders. Nixon American shipyards can do as well House Un-American Activities merchant fleet. was buried April 27 on the Washington. or better" than their foreign com­ Committee seeking members of An investigation of the break- grounds of his presidential In 1972, Paul Hall headed a petitors. However, the energy the Communist Party within the committee of maritime labor and in eventually led to the White library in Yorba Linda. He is sur­ crisis that hit the U.S. during the U.S. government. ship operators to re-elect Nixon House and to Nixon. Before the vived by his daughters, Trida In 1952, he was selected by in appreciation of his keeping the investigation was completed, a Cox and Julie Eisenhower." 1970s, touched off by the forma­ tion of a cartel by the oil-produc­ Dwight D. Eisenhower as his " ••e / •/'. / •4^ /.• .•/. • . '-I.- - • ,>• L -V - •• .• ;|vv VI t; ;6''/ • •1- ^ • �V - r? 4 SBVARBK LOG '-S MAY 1994 II.S. Cruise Ship Pian Before Congress SIU Backs Bills That Would Encourage Building Passenger Vessels The SIU announced its sup­ the development of a viable U.S. much-needed commercial work for port for legislation that woulc flag craise fleet by making it pos U.S. yards," noted the SIU official He added that in recent years create a U.S.-flag coastwise sible to operate U.S.-flag craise cruise industry, which would ships on competitive terms with U.S. shipyards have suffered heav^ produce jobs for American foreign-flag ships, thereby creating losses of government work a seamen, increase passenger anc shipboard jobs for U.S. merchant defense spending has declinec sharply. The end result has been the marine safety as well as boost the mariners and shipyard workers. "This legislation is designed to loss of 60,000 U.S. shipbuilding nation's security. Terry Turner, the union's direc­ create jobs for shipyards ant jobs, and more than 40 shipyards tor of govemmental relations, in his operators not just in the Northwest, have been forced to close since testimony urged the House Mer­ but around the country," noted U.S 1981. "Our nation's capacity to build chant Marine Subcommittee to Representative Jolene Unsoeld (Dships is at stake, as are the Wash.), sponsor of the legislation. support the U.S. Passenger Vessel "[TTie bills] offer incentives to •livelihoods of an additiona Development Act (H.R. 3821 and 180,000 shipyard and relatec help larger U.S.-flag craise ships H.R. 3822) during a hearing on that ply our oceans and smaller workers," said Turner. April 11. Turner estimated that the con­ The act, written as two bills, is ones that sail on our rivers and stop straction, conversion and upgrad­ at smaller ports," she added. designed to promote the construc­ ing of only 20 to 24 vessels in U.S. Subcommittee Chairman Wil­ tion and operation of U.S.-flag shipyards will provide work for ap­ liam Lipinski (D-Ill.) announced cruise ships. proximately tens-of-thousands of his strong support for the legisla­ H.R. 3821 establishes the terms shipyard workers. tion bas^ on its ability to employ and conditions that would allow He added that the U.S. steel in­ U.S. Rep. Jolene Unsoeld (D-Wash.), left, discusses the Passenger Ves­ foreign-built vessels already sail­ more Americans. "My goal in coming to Congress dustry would be another major sel Development Act with SIU Govemmental Affairs Director Terry Turner. ing from U.S. ports to operate as is to create jobs," the chairman said. beneficiary. Approximately 45,000 interim U.S.-flag vesselscrewed by "The biggest problem that we face to 50,000 tons of steel would be stand and quickly follow instruc­ sels used to transport supplies, American citizens if the operator as a nation is the erosion of our job needed for the production of a tions given to them by members of heavy equipment and troops agrees to contract with a U.S. 1,250-passenger craise ship. base. the crew. Other reports note ap­ during military operations," shipyard for a U.S.-built replace­ The Passenger Vessel Develop­ proximately 85 percent of all craise noted Turner. "Any legislation that creates ment vessel of an .equivalent or jobs is a bill that I will support and ment Act will result in the opening passengers who embark from U.S. greater size. During military operations of new coastwise itineraries, there­ ports are American citizens, vir­ overseas, U.S.-flag craise ships endorse," Lipinski stated. H.R. 3822 amends certain Capi­ by bringing craise ships and the tually all of whom speak English. could be used as recreational tal Constraction Fund (CCF) and Shipyards Benefit substantial economic benefits they Turner pointed out that the facilities for U.S. troops; as hospital Internal Revenue Service generate to many U.S. port cities. safety advantages of U.S.-flag ships; as offshore command/con­ Turner pointed out to the sub­ provisions to stimulate the growth This will result in an increase in ships go far beyond the matter of trol centers and as offshore bar­ of the U.S.-flag craise industiy. It committee that more than 30,000 the number of stevedore and other communication between pas­ racks for U.S. military personnel seafaring jobs alone could be calls for a series of tax incentives, KJrt jobs (ship docking, bunkering, sengers and crew. "U.S.-flag ships, when suitable shoreside facilities created under the provisions out­ including federal loan guarantees varehousing, etc.) throughout the unlike many foreign-flag ships, are do not exist or, for security or politi­ lined by the legislation. These jobs and authority to use tax-deferred Jnited States. It also will increase subject to stringent safety regula- cal reasons, cannot be used. would be in addition to those CCF deposits for investment in obs in local transportation, utility, tioiis and standards. And U.S.-flag needed in American shipyards to domestic cruise vessels. Turner cited several recent cases upgrade foreign-flag craise ships to services, wholesale and retail trade, ships are manned by U.S. merchant of craise ships being used in these U.S. standards as well as others that inance, insurance and real estate mariners, who are counted among and other capacities during military Would Create Jobs will be created to build new craise industries in and around U.S. port the best trained and most rigorously operations. For example, during the Speaking to the subcommittee. ships as called for in the legislation. cities. tested maritime professionals in the Falkland Islands War in 1982, 'Passage of the Passenger Ves­ Turner said, "Passage of H.R. 3821 world," said Turner. Britain called upon three Britishand H.R. 3822 will help promote sel Development Act will generate Raise Safety Standards He pointed out that the U.S. flagged cruise ships—the Queen In order to be re-flagged to the Coast Guard conducts lifeboat test­ Elizabeth II, the Canberra and the J.S. flag, the legislation calls on ing and certifies firefighting testing Uganda—and several pas­ breign-fiag craise ships operating of U.S. seafarers and issues them senger/car ferries for assistance. out of American ports to upgrade merchant mariner documents. U.S. However, during the Persian Gulf their passenger and vessel safety mariners receive CPR and other War, the U.S. Navy's Military Hawaii State Official irst aid training.They also are sub­ Sealift Command had to contract a standards. Named to FMC Position "Of all the many issues of con­ ject to background checks and man­ foreign-flag craise ship to serve as The Clinton Administration recently appointed Delmond Won, a cern to the U.S. government agen­ datory drag testing—all to ensure a recreation facility for U.S. shipping industiy consultant and a member of Hawaii's Land Use cies and bodies that deal with that U.S.-flag passenger ships military personnel. According to craise line in­ Commission, to the five-member Federal Maritime Commission (FMC). maritime-related matters, none is remain among the safest. dustry sources, there were 129 ves­ The appointment, which still must be approved by Congress, ends a more important than the safety of life Aid National Security sels form North American ports in year-long period during which the FMC operated with fewer than its full at sea," Turner told the panel. "TTiis concern is paramount, no A larger fleet of U.SJ-flag craise 1992. Only two ocean-going cruise five members: In January, the administration appointed Joe Scroggins Con­ Jr., senior deputy port director at the port of Tampa, to another previously matter what the vessel. It is greatly ships will mean more shipboard vessels—the SlU-ciew^ magnified, however, in the case of jobs for U.S. mariners, which in stitution and SS Independence —^fly vacant cornmissioner's position. Besides serving on the Land Use Commission, Won has woiked in a craise ship on which the lives of turn will mean that a larger pool of the U.S. flag. Over 4 million people took various edacities with Honolulu-based shipping companies since 1977. possibly as many as 3,000 pas­ trained American seafarers will be The other FMC members are Chairman William Hathaway, Francis sengers and crew could be put at available to support U.S. defense craise vacations generating rough­ ly $5 billion in revenue. These Ivancie and Ming Hsu. Ivancie is serving on an expired term and may risk in the event of an emergency at efforts whenever necessary. sea." "Obviously, the skilled licensed figures are expected to double by be replaced later this year. Accident analyses have shown and unlicensed members of vessel the year 2000. Currently, foreignthat during an emergency at sea, the operating crews are of most interest flag craise vessels enjoy 99 percent survival of passengers can depend to the Department of Defense, since of those revenues and pay little if House Panel Begins Action on their being able to readily under- they are needed to operate the ves­ any U.S. corporate income tax. On Inland Safety Bills The House Merchant Marine and Fisheries Committee has started Brusco Seafarers Handle Port Hueneme Traffic working on two pieces of legislation supported by the SIU designed to make the nation's inland waterways safer. One bill, the Towing Safety Act (H.R. 4058), deals with many of the proposals outlined by Transportation Secretary Federico Pena before the Coast Guard and Navigational Subcommittee on March 3. The bill, which is expected to be considered this spring, would require tugs, tows and pushboats to carry radar, communications and navigational equip­ ment. It calls for vessels to be operated by licensed masters and mates who have demostrated their proficiency in working with the equipment. It also would require all crewmembers working aboard inland vessels to carry U.S. Coast Guard-issued merchant mariner documents. The other piece of legislation, the Towing Vessel Navigational Safety Act (H.R. 3282), was marked up by the subcommittee last month. This bill, which awaits action by the full committee, deals only with equipping inland vessels with navigational and conununications equipment. J' J* 5 Million Gallons Of Oil Spilled in Tanker Accident After two weeks of mostly unsuccessful efforts by cleanup crews, authorities in the United Arab Emirates halted cleanup attempts that followed a March 30 collision involving a loaded supertanker and a SIU crewmembers began sailing aboard Brusco Tug & Barge Co. vessels in 1989. The two tugs smaller, empty tanker near Fujairah. operated by the company out of Port Hueneme, Calif, are the CleoJ. Brusco and the RolandBrusco. The accident resulted in the Panamanian-registered Seki spilling 5 Their primary duty is to handle harbor movements within the port. In the above photo taken on the million gallons of oil in the Gulf of Oman. Published reports indicate stem of the Cleo J. Brusco are (from left) Engineer John Russeff, AB Nova Lang, SIU Patrolman that only a quarter of the spill, which in total created a 25-niile slick, has Rob Scrivens and AB Brian Standley. been recovered. Most of the remainder drifted into the Arabian Sea. '•r •• �mri994 SEAFARERS lOG S 'i Seafarers Move Into New Brooklyn Hall ^/,,'''i -:, J From top to bottom: Seafarers secure the hall's safe for the move; Crane lifts safe from old hall; Crane transfers safe down street; Crane hoists safe into new hall. Seafarers walked through the doors of the union's newest hiring hail, located at 635 Fourth Avenue in Brooklyn, for the first time on April 18. Just one block from the old location, the new facility was selected because it is "better able to serve pur mem­ bership," according to Jack Caffey, SIU vice president for the Atlantic Coast. "Our new hall is cleaner, brighter and more cost ef­ fective. This will provide a more efficient operation for both the members and staff working here," he added. "I think this place is nice and clean," noted QMED Scott Sevret. "This place is well worth the time and ef­ fort that's gone into it." Seafarers may recognize some familiar sights upon entering the new hall. The old shipping board, erected when the SIU moved into the old Fourth Avenue hall in 1952, was carefully taken apart, moved, modified and reassembled in the new location. "It was a nice touch bringing the old board over," stated QMED Jurgen Gottschiich. "The members seem pretty happy with the new hall." Caffey thanked all the Seafarers who helped during the move by providing last-minute assistance when they were called upon. "Everyone from members to staff did a great job," he added. One of the more difficult parts of the move was the transferral of the safe. Because it was located on the second floor of the old hall, a crane was needed to lift the vault from the building. The crane with the safe attached to it was driven down the street, causing quite a commotion in the neigh- || borhood, before it deposited the vault in the new hall. The new hall at 635 Fourth Avenue used to be the home of the American Maritime Officers (then known as District 2-MEBA) welfare offices. It is three stories with a blue-and-white facade. L. - gfiilPBlBsM •' A final coaiof paint is applied by Wiper Maurice Ayuso. ..-•a-U-'-.-:.;:-'- --m, '• m .+-• i-i- >• i-- . ! From left, QMED Richie Almojera works with main­ tenance men Michael Modica and David Jones to reassemble shipping board. A i i' ' ' it' SL VALUE IZSiaUALITt ENGINE DECK . i!• SL : Si . •. m i' X'M M I':; r;'- v'"-; u 1 . X:'- ttO iT;: m Bi'i: '.'ijiSi , . X... •\ . : .• • : '•> Port Agent Bobby Seizor prepares board for job call. After some minor alterations, the shipping board first used in 1952 stands ready for job calls in the new hall. Waiting for the next job call are Seafarers (from r, Ricardo Ricai left) Adam Near, Ellis, Gregorio Alvarez, Flavio Ordonez, Juan Garcia and Ben Rashidi. Members gather around the counter to register and handle other union matters. ' While AB Ernesto Oxendine catches up on local news, SA Harry Celkos (center) and Bosun Fran­ cis Adams swap sea stories. r1 SSSK rr ' •V' • —..v. ^ ^c 4'' �6 MAY 1994 SEAFARERS LOG School's inland Group Tackles New Regs, Safety Bills The wave of new and possible regulations affecting inlanc waterway shipping and how to prepare boatmen to meet the new standards was the key topic of an all-day meeting of the Paul Hal Center for Maritime Training and Education's Inland Advisory Board Subcommittee on April 20 Comprised of representatives from the SIU, inland operators whose employees are SIU mem­ bers, and instructors of the Pau Hall Center's Lundeberg School, the subcommittee is charged with making recommendations to the facility's curriculum for boat­ Representatives from the SIU, the Paul Hall Center, inland companies and the Coast Guard meet in Piney Point, Md. to make recommendations on the Lundeberg's school's curriculum for boatmen. men. Clean-Air Rules Lundeberg School Instructor panies. These courses are struc­ gested strategies covering such Jim Brown led a discussion tured with consideration of topics as record-keeping require­ At the meeting, which took regarding recommendations for members' work schedules and of ments, inventory and main­ place in Piney Point, Md., Lun­ the inland radar training require­ each company's unique needs. tenance of equipment and deberg School Instructor Eric ments which still are teing for­ (Because such courses are penalties for non-compliance. Malzl^n presented a detailed scheduled upon request, the clas­ mulated by the Coast Guard. description of how the maritime Coast Guard Reports ses do not appear in regular industry will be affected by new Tailoring Courses course listings.) Regulations that soon will be Environmental Protection Agen­ He also outlined the courses As many inland companies implemented were reported by cy (EPA) regulations covering available to the inland industry, have a need for customized train­ representatives of the U.S. Coast repair and servicing of refrigera­ including a comprehensive com­ ing programs for their boatmen, a Guard. tion equipment. (The regulations plement of hazardous materials school representative spoke about stem from the Clean Air Act.) Frank Flyntz and Captain He reviewed the mandated use Gregory Cope of the Coast Guard the Paul Hall Center's ability training. of recovery systems, the told the group that the agency an- tailor courses to cover more than Bills Promote Safety restricted resale of used ticipates issuing an interim final i Just new regulations. In addition to going over refrigerant, certification of rule by the end of June regarding Limdeberg School Vocational course content. the Inland Ad­ recovery devices, certification re­ the reporting of vessel casualties Director Jim Shaffer pointed out quirements for individuals work­ and hazardous conditions, as weU that, as has been done for the past ing on refrigeration systems and as the development of radar train- several years, special upgrading much more. He also answered a ing for the operators of courses can be put together by number of questions and sug- uninspected towing vessels. instructors for individual com- visory Board Subcommittee also discussed measures before Con­ gress that, if enacted, would raise safety standards by improving towing procedures, licensing boatmen, documenting boatmen, establishing manning levels and expanding the array of required shipboard equipment. Noting the sweeping scope of the inland industry bills before Congress, SIU Executive Vice President Joseph Sacco said, "We have an opportunity to make great changes in the industry. We're going to revitalize it. We must strive for a more productive, more professional and more efficient industry." Inspect New Training Barge Those attending the meeting were given a tour of the Lun­ deberg School's newly acquired, modern training barge, the Empress II. Already in use as part of various upgrading courses, the Empress II is folly functional and is loaded with top-flight equip­ ment. Meeting Valued Company personnel described the meeting as very worthwhile, and said they are looking forward to the full Inland Advisory Board meeting tentatively scheduled for mid-October. They also noted that the Empress II will be a boon to upgrading courses. "I found the meeting very helpful and I appreciated being ~ kept informed on all the new legislation," said Stan Latka of Express Marine. "With the dayto-day operations at work, it's dif­ ficult to keep up with" legislative issues. John Burns of Maritrans said the meeting was "very produc­ tive, an opportunity for inland companies and coastwise car­ Lundeberg School Instructor Eric riers to get together and discuss Malzkuhn reviews new EPA regs issues that clearly are important affecting refrigeration equipment. to all of us." NATCO SIU Members Ratify 3-Year Contract Express Marine Seafarers Enderse Pact SIU Executive VP Joseph Sacco =rank Flyntz of the Coast Guard Lundeberg School Instructor Jim tells subcommittee: "We're going address the Inland Advisory Brown talks about possible require­ ments for Inland radar training. 3oard Subcommittee. to revitalize the industry." A new three-year labor agreement has been ratified by Seafarers who transport coal Seafarers working aboard up and down the East Coast dredges operated by North aboard Express Marine tugboats American Trailing Company and barges have ratified a new (NATCO). The pact covers three-year contract with the hours, wages and working condi­ company. tions into 1997. The pact, retroactive to SIU members ratified the new March 16, covers wages agreement, which is retroactive to benefits and working conditions March 1, on April 21. The new into 1997. pact includes wider outpatient Extensive outpatient medical medical care for the spouses and care has been added for the dependents of NATCO Seafarers spouses and dependents of mem­ as well as ah uncapped pension. bers who work aboard Express Captain Mike Horn, one of Marine tugs and barges. In meet­ the members of the union's ings and correspondence with negotiating team, said he was the union, members had ex­ pleased with the new contract. pressed their concern that this be "The most significant highlight of included when the new contract this agreement is the new was negotiated. dependant coverage," Horn Negotiations were held in told a reporter for the Philadelphia on March 15 and Seafarers LOG. 16. Members of the union "With hospital costs being negotiating team included Mate what they are, it really is a lot of James Kniger and AB/Cook Counting the ballots aboard the Guardian are Mate Guy Pruitt (left) help to us." Jesse Gardner. He added that he enjoyed and Cai^ln MeMn Braddy. "Everything went really well being a part of the negotiating and I left feeling satisfied and committee. "It was a very reward­ good about the contract we agreement by casting their votes days after the vote. ing experience partaking in such Express Marine is based in a process," notc^ Horn. helped negotiate," Gardner told by secret ballot on April 12. Cap­ a reporter for theSeafarers LOG. tain MelVin Braddy, Cook John Pennsauken, N.J. The company Robert Klefer, a chief en­ "The benefits wegained are very Garris, Mate Guy Pruitt, and operates five tug and barges. gineer, echoed Horn's comments. important and I feel that we got Engineer John Potter all par­ Ihey are the Guardian, Russell "I think that we got a lot of ticipated in the ballot counting B. Murray, Baltimore, Consort good gains and I came out feeling what we had hoped for." SIU members ratified the new aboard the tug Guardian two and Escort. good about what we ac­ .1; • • complished," he noted. "The rank-and-file members on the negotiating committee and the union officials assigned to the talks worked well togetho* and readied an agreement that is good for everyone. It was a pleasure to be a part of the negotiating commit­ tee," the chief engineer stated. Representatives for the SIU and the Illinois-based company held four negotiating sessions be­ tween February and March. The group met at union headquarters in Carhp Springs, Md. and at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, Md. Delegates to the talks included Horn, Kiefer, AB Phil Kiienbriel and Dragtender Bill Padgett. Rounding out the union negotiat­ ing team were SIU Executive Vice President Joseph Sacco, Vice President Contracts and Collective Bargaining Augustin Tellez and Assistant Vice Presi­ dent, Lakes and Inland Waters Anthony Sacco. Seafarers work in both licensed and unlicensed capacities aboard NATCO dr^ges across the Great Lakes and foe Atlantic and Gulf coasts. The slit hull dredges routinely perform channel maintenance and widening operations. �MAY 1994 SEAFARBRSLOG 7 Haimat RecerRRcaRon AvaUable Thnnigh Paul Hall MariRme Center '-j ;'K j.y;". An eight-hour hazardous said. However, Seafarers do not extensive hazmat training as materials (hazmat) recertification have to he enrolled in a separate result of the Oil Pollution Act of course will be available for upgrading course in order to take 1990, although the school began Seafarers at the Paul Hall Center hazmat recertification. offering Oil Spill Emergency for Maritime Training and Educa­ The eight-hour hazmat course Containment and Cleanup in 1989. tion in Piney Point, Md. begin­ will feature a review of any chan­ Since then, the curriculum ning in late June or early July. ges in OSHA policies and will regularly has been expanded to Course dates will be an­ bring Seafarers up-to-date on the include more on spill prevention nounced in the June issue of the latest federal hazmat regulations. and containment and chemical Seafarers LOG. Seafarers also will review key precautions necessary to work Currently, Seafarers who points of prior hazmat training aboard a vessel. complete training for oil spill and will update their respirator fit Among the courses taught at Seafarers join with striking Diamond Walnut workers and other trade prevention and containment earn test. (This exercise measures the school, all of which meet or unionists in a demonstration last month in Miami. The march was held a hazardous waste operations what size of air-purifying exceed Coast Guard and Occupa­ in support of the strikers and to emphasize the need to pass legislation response card, known as a haz- respirator a Seafarer should tional Safety and Health Ad­ making it illegal to fire striking workers. Diamond Walnut is a Califor­ woper card. TTiis card, which the wear.) ministration standards, are nia-based company which in 1991 permanently replaced roughly 400 Paul Hall Center began issuing last ta addition, students will ex­ 40-hour and 24-hour hazwoper striking Teamsters after contract talks stalled. year, must be renewed annually, in amine the latest hazmat equipment, classes; 35-hour Oil Spill Emer­ accordance with Occupational such as air monitoring systems. gency Containment and Cleanup; Safety and Health Administration The Paul Hall Center's 16-hour Benzene Safety; and 8(OSHA) regulations. Seafarers Harry Lundeberg hour Health and Safety/"First The first cards issued at Pihey School of Seamanship instituted Responder." Point are due to expire this sum­ mer. By completing the new, oneA Senate vote on a bill which The hiring of strikebreakers, day hazmat recertification would make it illegal to fire strik­ also known as scabs, to per­ course. Seafarers will receive a ing workers and permanently manently replace striking new hazwoper card which is good replace them with scabs, tenta­ workers began during the Reagan for another year. tively is scheduled for the week of administration after the president Seafarers are not required to May 16. invoked an obscure Supreme carry a hazwoper card in order to Supporters of the bill reported­ Court decision from 1938 (one throw in for a job. However, it is ly remain a few votes shy of the which contradicts the National highly recommended that all 60 needed to block a threatened Labor Relations Act) to justify members, particularly those who filibuster. But the SIU is joining firing air traffic controllers who sail aboard tankers, carry an upwith all of organized labor in were on strike.Since then, similar to-date card. The training re­ stepping up the grassroots cam­ scenarios have been played out at quired to earn a hazwoper card is paign to gamer support for the companies across the country, in­ extremely useful in the event of legislation. cluding Eastern Airlines, Diamond responding to an oil spill or other Seafarers who have not al­ Walnut, The New York Daily News hazmat spill. ready done so are urged to write and many others. The new course probably will to their senators and ask that they be scheduled immediately after Proponents of the legislation support S.55, also known as the point out that the right to strike is upgrading classes for QMEDs ^JhM' and ABs, Lundeberg School Students learn to measure the size of air-purifying respirators to be Workplace Fairness Act an essential ingredient of labor"The right of workers to use a management relations—one that Vocational Director Jim Shaffer worn by Seafarers aboard ship in conformity with OSHA regulations. strike as their ultimate, effective helps ensure tme, fair collective weapon must be restored," said bargaining. SIU President Michael Sacco. They also note that every other An effective right to strike is an important tool in raising the industrialized nation already has standard of living for millions of laws which protect the right of workers to engage in lawful working Americans." The U.S. House of Repre­ strikes. sentatives passed Workplace Passing the Workplace Fair­ Fairness legislation in 1992 and ness Act "would make our laws in 1993, and President Clinton consistent with those of our ad­ las vowed to sign the bill if given vanced world trading partners, ihe chance. But the Senate in '92 countries which are already as or ailed by fewer than a handful of more competitive than we are," Classroom studies are one aspect of the Lundeberg School's hazmat recertification curriculum needed votes to enact the bill, and then last House Majority Leader Richard to earn a hazwoper card which is good for ope year. Gephardt said. year filibustered the legislation. i: Mid-May Vote Slated For Anti-Scab Bill :;- S.'-S 4 t. -'JA •MrA.-/ J- Rank'and-Flle Committee OK's SIR'S Financial Records S'' M s .• -• thing. It was handled very effi­ As called for by the union's ciently." constitution, six Seafarers served on the SlU's annual financial The committee was chaired by committee and reviewed the SA John McLain. Also serving union's fiscal records for 1993. on the panel were Recertified The group found the records to be Bosun Roland "Snake" Wil­ in order and issued a report which liams, AB Keiiny Frankiewicz, will be presented during the May Chief Electrician Rush Ingram membership meetings. and Cook/Baker Walt Schoppe. The rank-and-file Seafarers Coincidentally, all of the mem­ bers except Ingram sail from the )ort of Philadelphia. (Ingram's BREC Roland "Snake" Williams (left) served on the panel which was chaired by SA John McLain. lome port is Piney Point.) "We had a good group who worked hard," McLain added. Review of the '93 financial records took place early last month at SIU headquarters in Camp Springs, Md. In total, the record-check took five days. Article X, Section 15, Subsection(c) of the union's constitution calls for an annual financial com­ mittee made up of rank-and-file Seafarers elected by their peers. The committee's sole charge, ac­ cording to the constitution, is to "make an examination for each period of the finances of the union Reviewing the union's financial recoids last month are 1983 Lundeberg and (to) report fully on their find­ Checking through the union's fiscal records are John Haller (left) and Rush Ingram. Both sail as chief electricians. graduates AB Kenny Frankiewicz (left) and Cook/Baker Walt Schoppe. ings and recommendations." who comprised the committee were elect^ by fellow members at the April headquarters member­ ship meeting in Piney Poinf Md. "We went through the records with no problems, and everything was in order," stated Chief Electrician John Haller, who sails from the port of Philadel­ phia. "Each of us reviewed eveiy- XI. - .-f- • ' M: '•M •44 .ii .•.•J® rv-- ' • 7 . .:4i ' j- ' 'J/. s sS �t 8 MAY 1994 SEAFARERS LOG • 1 •--'.kfeiijJjfet.'li. iV." -' Steering the Sea-Land Patriot into the port of Hong Kong Is AB Saleh H. All's goal. ••_ •, r .„ -i'-s .;:7,.:'.-i:i ' J. Nobody knows the ports of the Pacific Rim better than the crewmembers aboard the 900-foot Sea-Land Patriot. The vessel's 49-day turnaround run includes calls on some of the world's most famed seaports. The vessel was on Voyage No. 140 when Bosun Bobby Garcia, AB Steve Kastei and Chief Steward Jimmie Russell provided the Seafarers LOG with a detailed description of the vessel's activities. Their communication included the photographs on this page. With 139 Pacific Rim voyages under her belt and number 140 under way, the Sea-Land Patriot and her crew are well acquainted with the Japanese ports of Tokyo, Kobe, Nagoya, Yokohama and Naha (Okinawa). Kobe, located partly along the north shore of Osaka Bay, is Japan's principid port when measured by value of trade; Tokyo, on the northwest shore of Tokyo Bay, is situated in the midst of a series of industrial submbs. On the west shore of Tokyo Bay is Yokohama. Naha is the commercial center of the Ryukyu Islands. Other foreign ports-of-call for theSea-Land Patriot include Pusan, South Korea, near several industrial complexes; Kao-hsiung, Taiwan, the nation's leading port; and Hong Kong, which was leased to Great Britain by China for 99 years in 1898 and is a major connecting and transferring point for waterbome cargo. On the American side of the North Pacific, the vessel stops in Dutch Harbor, Alaska and the Califor­ nia ports of Oakland and Long Beach. Dutch Harbor, projected into the Pacific Ocean by its location in the east Aleutian islands, is the newest addition to the itinerary of the Sea-Land Patriot. The Sea-Land Patriot, built in 1980, is one of Sea-Land's 7 D9-J cl^s ships traversing the North Pacific, reports Brother Garcia. ; "V" . iV;-.•- • V- Rust-lnhlblting paint Is applied to parts of the deck by AB Mohamed S. Ahmed. The fuel oil syistem on the main engine Is checked by DEU John Young. . 'a:. > '5.. s'rSnS' AB Steve Kaste! tends the vessel's gangway lines. •'A"' ' Surrounded by their spotless galley are (from left) Chief Steward JImmIe Russell, Steward Utility Jacob Duslch and Chief Cook John Bennett. Deck gang pauses for photo: (from left, front row) AB M. Ahmed, Bosun Bobby Garcia, AB S. All, (back row) AB Steve Kastei, OS J. Roblson and AB Bill Curls. �. '• ••I. MAY 1994 *• 9 'I'' .. >(^v.' Chief Cook Leonard Strives to Be the Best iiS "-•:'.-.'.V' ^.f,. •- .- ' ••;••' '• •• -(,r Variety, fun, flair and a neverending quest for knowledge is how Saundra Leonard describes her life. The galley gang member com­ bines a sunny outlook with a thirst for learning, while she continues to advance up the culinary ladder. Currently enrolled in the allnew chief cook upgrading pro­ gram at the Lundeberg School, Leonard notes, "t am always striving for the best, and I will always keep learning. This union offers a great opportunity for its members to advance, and I think it is important for members to take full advantage of what the SIU has to offer." A Pittsburgh native, she lived in California for most of her adult life. In 1972, she received her associate's degree in culinary arts from Los Angeles Trade Tech. Upon graduation, she was awarded a scholarship for a specialized culi­ nary program in New York. I knew then that I would be back,' she recalled. Upon completion of her Lun­ deberg School training, she signed on the Buffalo Soldier as chief cook. "This was my first time being a chief cook. We had a three-man steward department so I was able to be very creative. It gave me a chance to put the knowledge I had learned upgrad­ ing into use for real crewmembers," Leonard said. Leonard recently returned to Piney Point to piu^ue her chief cook endorsement. As a result, she is one of 12 Seafarers par­ ticipating in a pilot course for the all-new chief cook upgrading program being held from April 18 to June 26. Upgraders in the chief cook course will alternate weekly be­ tween the Lundeberg School's new lecture/demonstration galley and the production galley. The lessons are designed so that each one depends in part on the knowledge and skills acquired in the previous lesson. Some of the topics to be covered include basic cooking From Beverly Hills, Calif, to an SIU chief cook, Saundra Leonard has made her mark. As an owner of a methods, seasoning and flavor­ catering company. Sister Leonard marketed her baked goods by visiting salons, donned in costume and ing, recipe and menu planning, carrying a tray of treats. After switching to a seagoing career in 1988, Leonard's biscuits have captured stock, sauces and soups, meat and the palates of many a Seafarer. game, poultry, seafood, starches, vegetables, breakfast and dairy, BISCUITS salad, sandwiches and hors d'oeuvres. Practical testing and weekly quizzes are part of the Special BiTOUlts curriculum. Prepared by Chief Cook Saundra Leonard An Instant Success Following her trmning in New York, Leonard returned to California in 1973 and began her own catering company known as "The Pie Ladies Company." 'T dressed up in Latin-style costumes and visited Beverly Hill's most famous beauty salons carrying a large tray of various homemade goodies for people to choose from. I decorated die tray with flowers and other frivolous tid-bits. I was . ah instant success ...people loved it!" raved Leonard. ingireclfente: Add butter and continue to mb( well. The tray she carried contained Add Cheddar cheese and chopped bacon or 4 cups white flour homemade desserts, fresh 3 oz. white isugar sandwiches and ihany specialty In a separate t)owl. combine e^ and milk and t^oz.8alt foods created in her own kitchen. beat weii. Add to mixture. 3 oz. baking powder ^ g Mix thmot^iy untfi dou^ is vidt. (This Is vmy "From those salons I made 2 Bbs. butter .': .: Important the secret to Ws redps Is to havo a 1cups dieddar cheese contacts and began networking. It smooffi,wat dough.) 4eggs wasn't long before I was catering Take dough out of mixing bowl and place mito a 2cupsmilk private parties in people's homes well-floured board. Knead the dough but take care Optional: 1 cup chcftpedb»c»n or in Beverly Hills," she said. riot to ovenwork It 1 cup chop^ sausage Pat out dough with hands into one-inch portions. Soon Leonard was able to ex­ "Egg wash" Using a biscuit cutter, cut into indMduai biscuits. pand her business into San An­ 2egg8 (Do not roll or use rotting pin. The secret to Ififck tonio, Texas where she had 1 oz. cooking oil tiiscuits is to pat out with hands.) numerous relatives, "The Pie 1 oz. water Brush biscuits with egg wa^. Ladies Company" was now a Bake untii golden brown in a 3S0-degree oven and huge success—and her biggest Mix together the diyIrtgrecptts of flour, senre warm with honey butter. Makes 48 bisotdts. and baWng powder. helpers were her three sons. At the height of her business venture, she had up to 12 employees to decided to go a different way. A nary field," she told a reporter for ment building gave her a copy of help cater the events. the Seafarers LOG and told her way I had never gone before but ihc Seafarers LOG. about the SIU. In 1988, Leonard opted for one which would further enhance She first became interested in change and joined the SIU. "I my talents and love for the culi­ sailing when a friend in her apartShe contacted the San Francis­ co hall and began the process of becoming an SIU memW. "I sold A Different Kind of Ice on the Great Lakes everything and headed for my career at sea," she recalled. Her life as a Seafarer began aboard the SS Independence of American Hawaii Cruises. "I started as a kitchen utility and washed dishes just so I could begin sailing. It turned out that I did it well, and before long I was working my way up until I was making salads," noted Leonard. She then advanced to assistant cook of soup and fish, and not long after that, she was second cook of soup and flsh. "I was the first woman aboard the 'White Ships' to hold this position. It goes to show that working hard really pays off," the chief cook upgrader stated. In 1993, Leonard was ac­ cepted into the cook and baker course at the Lundeberg School. "This was my first Piney Point Seafarer Roy Calo (right) stands with his 1994 entry to the Port of Huron Ice Festival. The P^sus visit ever. I couldn't believe that is only one of many ice carvings Calo will enter in Michigan area ice festivals this year. He has such a great program existed. It received awards for originality and uniqueness in previous years. Brother Calo sails as a second was such a wonderful experience. cook aboard the Sam Laud, an American Steamship vessel on the Great Lakes. Using the Resources She noted she enjoyed the various computer skills taught during the program. "My favorite resource is the library. It is really state of the art I read many great cook books and check out wonderful videos to watch in my room at night. There are really so many options outside the class­ room that can be used to enhance all aspects of the upgrading process,"said Leonard. Affectionately referred to as "the biscuit lady" by the staff at union headquarters in Camp Springs, Md., she said cooking in the galley at headquarters was another benefit of upgrading. "I truly enjoy cooking for everyone and hearing all the positive feed­ back. It inspires me to do an even better job and please even more people," she said. Leonard is looking forward to returning to sailing after graduat­ ing from the pilot course. "I can't wait to get back to sea and use all of this wonderfiil knowledge that I've learned. I really urge others to apply themselves and make their way to Piney Point because upgrading knowledge, skills and experience is the only way for us to make om way as Seafarers," she concluded. '• '' "i-".. '-'f -> -'-M ' • .U '.i'. "i •'-'.t *'• •' •. : i;-' "••4 .M .M. J',' •^1 A �10 'i::±:'- «•! SEAfMERSIM . .._ /.. MAY 1994 , ^ ft' I"!';"- ,0»% Se<t^<xxe% "KCUCK '7n'<t'tcA.<xKd ^xtutt 'ZOedt/uyit, "THrei^. cvct^ Ald^ tu^ eCcuc(^Atexd^, "^C.xtfd.tkl OHcC '7H'<tXcA<XHd <uxcU <x cAte^ <Uew4txd <xut tAe ^uxxt 9^ 'Ttetv^ "^axii. a dux^ixUe UA<I^ ox^^atUfed <M.'Dece*H^ 23 ^ fael^ecAel ^ ^ c^-^f 'Keu<tHdx<t, t9 cele6x<xte ^ 35tA 6txtAd<t^. fael, cu^ (i.<tcti. <tK/4^, <^<»4 iee*t <t tHet*i6er dlKcc t ^7^. Another peek into the Seafarers LOG family album shows us some happy moments in the lives of SlU members, in­ cluding three weddings, a birth­ day, a fishing trip and a family reunion. As always, the LOG welcomes photographs from Seafarers and their families and will publish them on a periodic basis. ;\\ ^9t*utuf. euccC "Pef^ (net c*t Octaiex J ^93 <x*td cvexe ttoxxxcexC dcx cveeJi^ taXex. ut r^itlucdXaK, *?ex^. iMutuf, UAAX ^MHcd tTie UHUMt CK J 0, <X<1- <XK /fS; <t 0tem6^ex dlKCC J <t4- <t c^Xc^ <i(ec9<xxd. IVii (^<i*tuvi(ielte <uui ^cdxx/xA- ^extox. cvexe (iunxxceet S<xtuxd<x(f, /4^ixcl 9, 1994 c*c "TTCxxxexx, cxu^tlc ttcet eo^cle dxilcK^ xSxxxd (^x^xicoxti; ^ X4. Xft /fS, <i4e <t4 X UiX^tex. ^oXA xxe xe^idtfxexi ut cAe IteiCL 0xtexH4^ AxU. lat- fe-s ' /tS T^xitcd "THxU <^xxoc9. x*td AC9 (vC^e, 'i^xxxCct, C9CXC mxxxCcd 6x r^Auiftx, 9{^e4.t /f^xCcx 9x '^ccetttAcx 3, 1992. 'D'xoXd cuxxcKtief dxild 9*t (Ac ^90C Aidcxtc^. "Z^uxut^ X ex^tedtXcM. tx<iX du*HtKex, S97tutetnAex'Tftc&AxetSuXXM.xttd At4, dxH, "TKaitAcui, cxic(^Ax x 5^/2 iA. Iut4^ CH (AC ^U(A OA "TTCcxtcx 0^ CAe cxx^ 9^ "PcKd^tcxtx, "pCx. '7c*H9tAt^ "P. Pcct^ AX4, Aeex XH S97i tttemAex ^x fW cfcxx^. ^uxuu^ X cU^Xt (9 (Ac PAxU^t^tXttcd lx9.t ^AxnAd^^XcAuu^, Ac ^ix^ccC iuiXA Axx coXA^, ^uccf, XKcC dxto^AXcx, PcUxccAx TKxxXc. �-^l. .^•kf'-m^^^-'Kimr-rj^-^r. -if-- . ^".. - »..• • • .W: MAY 1994 SEAFARERS LOG 11 GovemmenI Senices Diwfoion ChaUeng^ SIU's Government Ser­ vices Division is seeking immedi­ ate at tion from the Military Sealift Conmand-Pacific Fleet (MSCPAC) over unilateral changesahiade in the contract that affects crew size, work apparel arid quarters for unlicensed crewmembers sailing aboard the civiliancrewed militaiy support vessels. Roy "Buck" Mercer, SIU vice president for the government ser­ vices division, said the alterations were made by MSG without con­ sulting the union. "lids is in direct violation of the collective bargaining agreement we have with them," Mercer told the Seafarers LOG. "We will not stand for it." As the LOG was going to press. Mercer was scheduled to meet with MSCPAC officials about the viola­ tions. If no a^eement is reached, the dispute will be turned over to the Federal Mediation and Concihation Service to reach a satisfac­ tory conclusion. If that cannot be done, the grievance is turned over to the Federal Labor Relations Authority (FLRA) for a final deter­ mination. The most Visible deviation from the contract is the reduction of 10 crewmembers aboard the MSCPAC oilers USNS Andrew J. Higgins, USNS Benjamin Isherwood, USNS Guadalupe, USNS John Ericsson, USNS Pecos, USNS Tippecanoe, USNS Walter S. Diehl and USNS Yukon. Five positions were cut from the steward depart­ ment, three in the engineroom and one fi-om the deck crew. When he asked why the crewing reductions were announced. Mer­ cer said MSCPAC told him "cost savings. I then asked them since they wanted to reduce the size of the crew, were they also reducing the size of the vessels." MSCPAC advised deck and en­ gine department crewmembers that they would have to wear uniforms while on duty. However, the government agency did not specify how; the members were supposed to acquire such uniforms. "Again, there was no talk or discussion prior to their an­ nouncement," Mercer stated. "There is no provision for this in the contract." Galley gang members are sup­ plied their whites (pants, jackets, cook caps and aprons) by the military command. Past Actions Reversed The SIU has defeated previous efforts by MSCPAC to circumvent the contract. In 1989, the government agency stopped paying overtime for watch standing in port by deck department members between 1700 and 0800 Monday through Friday without negotiating such a change. Four SIU members filed a The Seafarers LOG will keep members apprised of the outcome grievance with the Federal Labor Government Services Division concerning the grievances. Relations Authority (FLRA), stating the removal of the overtime pay was a contract violation.The FLIL\ rulec in favor of the union members anc ordered the pay be issued retroactive­ ly, which amounted to thousands of dollars. Last year, MSCPAC again con­ sidered deleting the same overtime pay without consulting the union. However, it never was imple­ mented after the SIU stated it again would appeal to the FLRA over the contract violation. SIU Members Keep Curtiss Ready for Marine Deployments Board Reactivated During recent meetings, the union and MSCPAC did agree to reactivate the habitability board. The reason for this is that MSCPAC is in the process of breaking out refitted supply ships with civilian crews rather Aan military person­ nel. The board is designed to handle questions and improvements about living conditions aboard MSCPAC ships. It is composed of repre­ sentatives from both the SIU and MSCPAC. The supply vessels, including the already^operating USNS Mars and USNS San Jose, were built to carry more than 400 sailors, but are being redesigned to handle civil service crews of just over 100 with about 40 Navy personnel. Rorucki Reports Sealift Caribbean Sails nnuigb Annual inspecUen For most who arrive by sea at the tourist island of Key West, Fla., their days are filled with lounging in the suri sipping a cool drink. However, that was not the case in March for the Seafarers aboard the Sealift Caribbean, ac­ cording to the ship's bosun. The tanker, which is operated by International Marine Carriers for the Military Sealift Com­ mand, makes a regular run begin­ ning in New York where it is loaded with petroleum products and sails to Charleston, S.C., Jacksonville and Tampa, Fla. then to Houston for offloading. During the March run, the U.S. Coast Guard conducted its annual inspection of the vessels. Crew­ members not only had to perform their regular duties—handling cargo, cleaning, chipping and painting—but also stood ready to work with the inspectors aboard the ship. "This was no pleasure visit to Key West, but they never are," Recertified Bosun Jerry Borucki told the Seafarers LOG. "There was plenty of work on board. At least, the weather was cooperative making the deck work easier." The Coast Guard conducted a visual walk-through of the vessel, inspecting the deck and en­ gineroom and observing safety drills. Borucki was proud to note the ship passed with no problems. In 1990, Seafarers began crewing the Sealift Caribbean, which was built in 1975. Repositioning equipment used during a lifeboat drill are (from left) AS Ernest Hamilton, Bosun Jerry Borucki, AB Thomas Lockett and AB William Johanson. Wilmington Patrolman Rob Scrivens (far right) answers crewmembers' questions during a shipboard union meeting. From the left are Bosun Charles Bowen, Chief Steward Bill Finhandler, Chief Electrician Ken Savoie, AB Ken Herzstein, QMED Jesse Manard and Scrivens. Operations for Seafarers would be necessary to hoist the aboard the USNS Curtiss usually box. "Our guys did a great job," are quite hectic when the vessel is Bowen noted. "We studied the deployed. The vessel, operated by situation to find the safest, most American Overseas Maritime efficient way to lift the box to the (Amsea), serves as a floating dock. We did it with very little repair shop for U.S. Marine Corps trouble." The bosun added that the deck aircraft. TTie parts that need to be department had no problems are loaded onto the ship, fixed while merchant mariners from the bringing a new container on SIU and American Maritime Of­ board so the Curtiss would be ficers handle the navigational ready for its next mission. functions. The converted containership takes part in many military maneuvers. It was called out, along with its SlU-crewed sister ship USNS Wright, for the Persian Gulf War. Recently it took part in Operation Determined Warrior between Hawaii and Southern California. But work does not slow down on those days when the Curtiss is docked at Port Hueneme, Calif., near Los Angeles. SIU members keep the ship ready to sail while awaiting the call for another assignment. Last month that included the removal of a container used by the Marines that had started rusting. Bosun Charles Bowen told the Seafarers LOG that the opera­ tion was made more difficult be­ AB Ken Herzstein mans the con­ cause the locations where the rust trol board to open a hatch cover had formed were areas where grabs aboard the USNS Curtiss. fi-- •. • • '•i:- .i'. : IJ .• " n'' V Chief Steward Dorothy Takahashi (right) reviews the stores list with Checking the temperature in the cargo tanks are (from left) Bosun Inspecting the rusted container before it is removed are Bosun Char­ les Bowen (left) and Patrolman Rob Scrivens. Jerry Borucki, AB Conrad Tangier and OS Steve Nelson. Chief Mate Joseph Angelillo. -:L' ••V-'-'i •'/*. ••'/V \ r :|;S i• u } I 'ttV" \i,i' -vV Mir' �:."i^^, i: ' "• •- ? » •• ' • : \ '7-S V''^;.' • ,^ '^ • I "i::- vU'..\,. ;fiKv - •i,..Vvl.'s-. ,r'>v.-r ,'-• ^-• ' •. l" V '• • •' ^,4-- ->.- .* -V'.yt- V.'- y'^v '' •• I'- 7 W;'*f >/;.-v / ^ '' ' ' ' • ' Ji-*' • - jj^^'-'" " ' •>» 'V''"yy7yy• pits^ U,';; • -' 7 •^''f7%j|liyyy y . •. C/74/VE OPERATIONS Upgraders in the sealift course receive practical training on a Hagglund crane, which can be found on many military ships. T Activities Aboard Sealift Ships America's sealift vessels are manned by civilian seamen, but they require manpower skills that are keyed to opera­ tions unique to military ships. That is why 10 years ago this month, the Paul Hail Center for Mmtime Training and Education's Lundeberg School imple­ mented a course designed to prepare Seafarers to execute underway refueling maneuvers, helicopter and shipboard crane operations and other skUls. Since its inception, more than 3,500 SIU members have taken the sealift preparedness course at Piney Point, Md. Many other Seafarers have received onsite training during any of the 70-plus trips to sealift vessels made by Lun­ deberg School instructors, who also have conducted shipboard refresher courses. Seafarers who are trained in the pro­ cedures of sealift ships, man vessels that have been subcontracted for operation to the private sector by the Military Sealift Command (MSC), the agency within the U.S. Armed Forces responsible for waterbome transport logistics. Among the vessels on which Seafarers make use of their sealift training are preiwsitioning ships, tankers, oceanograpMc surveil­ lance ships, aircraft maintenance ships, fast sealift ships and others. In all, scores of MSC ships are operated by SlU-contracted companies and crewed by Seafarers. In addition, sealift skills are utilized by Seafarers when manning vessels from the nation's Ready Reserve Force (RRF), a group of former commercial AtPiney Point y ^'y.. Honing Skills For Amorlca's Soallft Noods ; .-.k-;?-; • '. .v!'?.'' • v.y?.; '•..- Vo'5. ./•• , •: '.-'^yy--:' y •^•". ^ 'k Sealift Assets of the U.S. Military : p'; ./•;•• Able to respond quickly to an emergency, these former SL-7 vessels can do speeds of more than 30 knots. •• _ Fully loaded to support American troops, these SlU-crewed vessels set sail imme­ diately after activation. " 7- W lit ' •:3: Pays Dividends Hellwege recalled that the Lundeberg School's sealift training paid dividends during Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm—the largest activation of the nation's sealift assets during the period since the course was established. During those operations, all of the MSC ships and the RRF were actively deployed. Supporting Hellwege's observation. Received Bosun Jamie Miller noted that the school's sealift training proved to be an important asset when he sailed during the Persian Gulf War. "You get a lot of practical experience, and the hands-on training is good," he said. "I sailed on the Cape Edmont and the Com/iMjifcerStore during the war, and the training definitely helped me." Refresher Courses Summarizing the ongoing need for In addition to updating the curriculum such schooling, Hellwege added, "If you for the course at die Lundeberg School, look at the past few years alone, you can Hellwege and Swanson regu&ly pro­ see the need for sealift traiuing. History vide Seafarers with on-site sealift and current events together have taught refresher courses. For exan^le, during us that welive in a dangerous world, with recent training aboard the militaiy's fast Watile situations overseas. That alone is sealift ships, SIU members practiced reason why sealift training will continue crane operations and deck maintenance; to be needed in the future." Seafarers crew chartered vessels capable of carrying armored equipment to the world's "hot spots." ^ hips, is a port fnifitary operations in times of need. ' " /i - 'I :V • St*.; - itfIII .... ^ • • .X: • , -.S .. • •' ' '' O' i' . iL'jWV'" I'll 1—-'.-.'•"'"I*"*'. - -- .c9 • f IS.-"' ;.Sf. .• ••s,./'-v-iv v;,. „U.4:, •' . ; .• . ; .V •: V A.. : ; vl MSS 9^ ^ - „ .s'l SIU members crew these oceanographic surveillance vessels around the world for the military. The Ready Reserve srve Force, Fore composed of h'- • -.•••'T-'--'. ... , -A • T-AGOS RRF •' > HBHF- ;g;-. - ' .i- ROLL-OmOLL-OFF it pi operated Hyster forklifts which are capable of lifting 56,000 pounds apiece; and reviewed proper use of the equip­ ment found in the damage control locker, such as breathing apparatuses, shoring kits to prepare portable beams in an emergency, firemen's suits, bracing, portable pumps, portable ventilation sys­ tems and a wide variety of tools. ill PREPOSmONiNG FAST SEALIFT the training to use. 'Two weeks after I took sealift, I was on a Maersk ship and we did an unrep (underway replenish­ ment) in Diego Garcia," said Hill, a thirdgeneration Sparer. '1couldn't have done it without the traimng at Piney Point. "It's an in-depth course, and 1 recom­ mend that everybody take it. Everybody's going to use those techniques and skills at some point in their career." In addition, officials from SlU-contracted companies which operate MSC vessels also praised the course. "It's definitely beneficial, and the training lends itself to people coming on board and getting right to work," said Bob Rogers of Interocean Management. "We have five vessels now that have Hagglund cranes, and we've never had a problem (with the operations). There's no reservation on our part about the quality of the training" at Piney Point. Similarly, Rick Williamson of Amsea stated, "We find that it gives people a specific idea of what to expect on the ships. It's extremely valuable training, for everyone from steward assistants to the deck department." of what became a wave of cotiunercial well as delivering food and other neces­ shipping companies operating civilian- sary supplies to U.S. Navy bases in Sin­ gapore, Guam and Diego Garcia. crewed military ships. Those operations, and the crewing of Praised by Upgraders the vessels by Seafarers, were deemed "I've found that the students really successful by the military and resulted in get into this course," said Lundeberg increased demands for operation of School Instructor Bill Hellwege, a Navy sealift ships by private companies. In veteran who wrote and taught the response, Lundeberg School instructors original sealift curriculum and who has developed a comprehensive course updated it at least a dozen times. "At which covered aU phases of sealift, in­ first, some are surprised at how many On-Site Schooling cluding underway and vertical different types of vessels are involved. The training began in May 1984 replenishment, helicopter maneuvers The term 'sealift' definitely does not aboard the Keystone State (previously (helo), damage control, rarming forklifts refer to just one class of ship." named the SS President Harrison) in of all sizes, search and rescue and crane Two of the up^aders who currently Newport News, Va., after the vessel had operations. are taking the ses^ course echoed the been converted by the;Navy into the first sentiments of many of their peers when of 11 heavy-lift crane ships under charter Valuable Course they described the training as extremely to MSC. Eighteen upgra^rs successful­ The value and thoroughness of the ly completed what was then a two-week sealift training (which now is a four- worthwhile. "It's the best hands-on training you course, and they subsequently signed on week course) repeatedly were possibly could get," said AB Ken the Keystone State and other newly con­ demonstrated by Seafarers aboard MSCFrederick, following a familiarization verted ships. contracted vessels and those in the RRF exercise in the crane. "The whole course Soon afterward, the Lundeberg during the Persian Gulf War and during is excellent, and it fully prepares you for School acquired a Hagglund shipboard relief efforts in Somalia. During those the job you have to do when you get [to crane — the predominant type found operations, relying in part on the training sea]." aboard sealift vessels — which was in­ they received at the Paul Hall Center, AB Rob Grove said that the course stalled at the school, thereby allowing members helped deliver millions of tons upgraders to fulfill that aspect of their of military cargo, such as trucks, tractors, gave him confidence to sail aboard the sealift training requirement at Piney troops, ammunition, fiiel, ready-to-eat military ships. "I feel like we'll be ready Point. meals, medical supplies and other for anything: helo, underway replenish­ But a short time later, a need for ad­ materiel. They also helped conduct ment, damage control, you name it. "The hands-on training was highly ditional classroom and practical training numerous vertical and underway valuable, and [Hellwege and fellow Inbecame evident when Sea-Land Service replenishments. Jeff Swanson] answer every one stractor The benefits of sealift training also and Bay Tankers each were awarded of your questions." contracts to operate a total of eight con­ are evident in more routine operations, Recertified Bosun BiUy Hm com­ verted SL-7s for military use as fast like maintaining the prepositioning ships pleted the course in 1986 and quickly put sealift ships. This maiked the beginning in Diego Garcia and the RRF fleets, as ships that have been laid-up and placed under government ownersMp for use in surge shipping during times of conflict or war. To this day, the school is believed to be the only non-military facihty which offers such training, according to an MSC spokesman. Sealift training now is mandatory for all SIU upgraders. • iris" /- • ' . • �14 MAY 1994 SEAFARERS LOG ABs Greg Gorenflo (left) and Mark Hoffman express their support for The Overseas Ohio sWs at the dock in Wilmington, Calif., about a mile In lounge are Chief Pump. M. Ribeiro a strong U.S. merchant fleet and continued employment security. from the SlU hall. (left) and 2nd Pump. J. Mayer. ; -f'- '..VVv:'- Belief in Strong U.S.-Flag Fleet Is Evident Aboard Overseas The need for a strong U.S.-flag merchant fleet, the importance of upgrading at the Paul Hall Center, the benefits of being an SIU mem­ ber and general job satisfaction were among the topics discussed by the crew of the Overseas Ohio during a recent shipboard meeting with SIU Patrolman Rob Scrivens. Scrivens, who provided the photos accompanying this article, reported that the crewmembers' vehement belief in maintaining a viable U.S. merchant fleet was prevalent as he talked with and answered questions for the mem­ bers aboard the tanker. The Seafarers also conveyed ap­ preciation for the job security they have through the union, and indicated that they enjoy their plentiful work aboard the vessel, the Wilmington, Calif.-based patrolman said. "A strong merchant marine means security for our nation in times of crisis. It also means keeping jobs at home—continued employment for the.American seamen," stated Steward/Baker Earl Nelson Gray, who has sailed for 27 years, including the past nine from ports along the West Coast. AB Greg Gorenflo said that he enjoys "sailing on oil tankers and eaming a good income." He also likes the idea that his work helps enhance national security. Keeping in Touch Besides echoing the sentiments of his fellow crewmembers regard­ ing the necessity of a strong merchant marine, AB John Baker noted that he, like Brother Gray, has been for­ tunate to catch jobs sailing primarily on the West Coast. This has enabled him to stay in touch with his family and friends ashore. Meanwhile, the chance to ad­ vance one's career was mentioned by Second Pumpman Josh Mayer as another benefit of belonging to the SIU. "I feel I have every opportunity to succeed," he said. Having recently put a down-pay­ ment on a house. Chief Pumpman Michael Riheiro emphasized hisap­ preciation for the steady work. Finally, Bosun Robert Pagan Jr. summed up his work at sea when he said, "I'm glad for the job security I have with the SIU, as well as die opportunity to earn a good living so I can provide for my femiily." The Overseas Ohio, operated by Maritime Overseas, sails between Job security Is an important aspect of membersfiip in the SIU. So Alaska and California. The vessel stated crewmembers on board the Overseas Ohio. They are (from left), usually calls on the port of Long AB Mark Hoffman, Bosun Bob Pagan, Chief Cook Duane Bergeson, Beach two times each month. Chief Pumpman Michael Ribeiro and Chief Steward Earl Nelson. SIU Family Boasts Wrestling Champs Just out of the shipyard at Swan Island in Portland, Ore., the Overseas Ohio is back in the business of transporting oil. Compared to sports like baseball or basketball, amateur wrestling doesn't rank as a par­ ticularly popular sport in most parts of the United States, other than in the midwestem states. But don't tell that to SIU Port Agent Sal Aquia, who has be­ come a devoted follower of the sport. "I love it," stated Aquia, whose interest , stems from the grappling success of his two sons, Tpny and Sal. "Wrestling teaches you to be dedicated and keeps you in top shape. "I go to as many matches as possible, and [Mrs. Aquia} goes to every one. It's very exciting." Tony is a backup at the University of Maryland, which that the amateur sport has vir­ is part of the tough Atlantic tually nothing in common with Coast Conference. He competes so-called professional wrestling. in the 140-pound weight class. Unlike the glitzy, The younger Sal, 14, recen^ choreographed pros, amateur completed an undefeated sea^i^ wrestlers earnestly compete on a in a very competitive regional mat (rather than in an erstwhile recreation league. He went 21-0, boxing ring), absent predeter­ including eight pins, and won the mined outcomes. Amateur Baltimore County and Maryland- matches normally consist of Virginia state championships. three two-minute periods at the (Victories may be earned via a high school level, or a threepoint system or by pinning one's minute period and a pair of twominute periods at the collegiate opponent.) Next year, Sal Jr. has an ex­ and international levels. The cellent chance to earn a starting wrestlers spend most of their spot on his high school's varsity time on the mat attempting team, possibly at 135 pounds. takedowns (from the standing Baltimore Port Agent Aquia position), pinning combinations said that what has impressed him (from the top position) and es­ the most about wrestling is the capes or reversals (from the botstamina required to successfully tom). And there are no compete. "You have to be in head-butts, punches or leaps great shape," he noted. "It takes from the top rope in the amateur an unbelievable amount of ef­ version. fort, which is one reason why "You can't even compare I'm so proud of Tony and Sal." real wrestling with pro wres­ In addition, he pointed out tling," Aquia explain^. ;y,' • ' • • :• • I"' ,> •; -.• ' feV: y •/ Cleaning up after supper are galley gang members (from left) Steward Assistant A. Rashid, Chief Cook Duane The Big Man" Bergeson and Chief Steward Earl Gray. Sal Aquia, 14-year-old son of The Aqulas are ready for a tournament at the University of SIU Port Agent Sal Aquia, went Maiyland's Cole Field House. Pictured from left are Tony. Sal, 21-0 this past season. Elizabeth and Sal Sr. �V'-vV' V-'Sfvi .••A-. ^ -t ••",:• mY1994 . • ;' Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C ••REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C Trip Reliefs DECK DEPARTMENT Port 9 55 51 8 0 New York 26 27 3 18 22 3 15 4 7 4 4 5 3 2 Philadelphia 10 3 7 8 0 1 9 6 6 2 0 Baltimore 5 34 20 0 10 1 7 8 Norfolk 19 1 1 31 25 2 1 6 . 11 Mobile 15 14 1 11 51 50 10 20 1 •,.5. 6 New Orleans 18 20 •4 45 39 13 0 25 29 • 2 Jacksonville 28 24 , 3 52 51 6 0 5 12 0 San Francisco 25 22 37 10 41 6 • l--'% 13 2 20 7 Wilmington 23 8 43 43 9 0 10 18 3 Seattle 26 21 6 5 18 2 0 5 0 4 7 7 Puerto Rico 27 33 12 7 5 14 4 12 5 26 Honolulu 14 50 32 15 25 1 21 8 26 27 Houston Yl'-S.si'' 0 T. • 3 0 0 0 0 1 2 St. Louis 1 • 1 13 2 4 0 7 2 1 12 Piney Point 2 0 0 •• •. 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 Algonac 106 474 397 90 14 172 144 46 257 220 Totals ENGINE DEPARTMENT Port 7 40 40 7 1 10 12 1 14 21 New York 1 6 0 :i . :A-A 2 0 3 3 Philadelphia 2 9 6 . 1 1 4 4 Baltimore 4A'1 5 26 8 •4 1 6 -4 1 15 4 Norfolk 0 14 20 2 0 6 3 0 9 11 Mobile 5 30 22 3 0 5 7 3 13 New Orleans 11 issmmm 38 7 30 0 3 15 11 4 21 Jacksonville 22 33 2 lis 5 5. 0 17 San Francisco 16 28 15 .0 6 •ill 5 1 11 Wilmington 10 27 3 22 5 6 0 13 2 16 15 Seattle 2 2 10 1 0 0 5 0 1 8 Puerto Rico 13 27 8 3 10 12 3 5 18 8 Honolulu At 'P^i "5^ 33 ' 18 0 15 12 1 13 16 Houston 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 oMs' 0 1 St. Louis 0 16 • 4 0 -•.1. 0 0 4 0 Piney Point 0 0 0 0 0 b 0 0 0 0 Algonac 56 329 247 42 7 93 79 20 158 151 Totals STEWARD DEPARTMENT Port 0 25 31: 9 7 0 12 0 9 20 New York 1 4 1 1 1 2 1 1 2 1 Philadelphia 4 1 6 1 0 1 2 1 3 Baltimore 2 12 18 4 1 3 1 3 5 9 Norfolk 1 11 11 1 1 4 6 1 7 3 Mobile 0 24 15 4 0 2 4 0 10 New Orleans 8 1 9 20 r:5^; 4 0 7 -'b; 6 Jacksonville 10 14 3 76 3 0 19 0 7 San Francisco 35 1 7 ,A;i: 28 0 :-;2:: 0 5 4 Wilmington 17 3 12 26 4 0 3 19 2 23 7 Seattle 0 2 3 4 1 2 2 0 2 4 Puerto Rico 13 26 32 1 0 2 4 7 11 14 Honolulu 3 6 16 12 0 7 fflS mv 2 13 Houston 0 '-.t 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 St. Louis 0 12 3 0 0 6 0 0 1 A5 Piney Pomt 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Algonac 29 169 286 50 4 52 92 16 79 159 Totals ENTRY DEPARTMENT Port 22 81 22 0 1 22 4 6 42 6 New York 5 6 1 0 0 4 1 1 5 1 Philadelphia 2 5 1 0 1 7 0 2 8 0 Baltimore 8 39 6 0 3 6 2 3 14 2 Norfolk 1 31 4 0 0 7 1 0 14 2 Mobile 45 18 18 1 0 9 6 7 17 New Orleans 6 -iWMiijl i 0 12 26 0 4 11 2 .1' ^ 5 16 2 Jacksonville 11 26 32 0 2 8 4 12 5 San Francisco 14 8 31 9 0 1 2 4 2 14 4 •. ') Wilmington 11 26 15 0 0 12 5 6 16 11 Seattle 8 9 9 0 0 5 5 1 5 5 Puerto Rico 138 98 14 0 6 16 1 56 39 9 Honolulu 10 31 7 0 11 ^^1 2 7 16 6 Houston 0 2 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 St. Louis 3 22 1 0 0 20 0 3 28 1 Piney Point 0 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 Algonac 257 482 141 0 20 141 37 104 248 69 Totals Totals All 1.071 1.454 448 182 45 352 458 186 742 Departments 599 , Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. •» "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. A total of 1,037 jobs were shipped on SHJ-contracted deep sea vessels. Of the 1,037jote sWpp^ 352jote or about 34 percent Were taken by "A" seniority members. The rest were fiUed by *8 and ^monty people From Marchl6 to April 15,1994, a total of 182 trip reUef jobs were shipped. Smce the trip relief program began on April 1,1982,atotalof 20,711 jobs have been shipped. . 'a- 1 6 m • ^ •• 'Ac-- • 'V j / . ''\Y' I. r. IS iA" ...-; > _• '. -V June & July 1994 Membership Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, Inland Waters MARCH 16 — APRIL 15,1994 •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C SEAFARERSUG A:-;'- Piney Point Monday, June 6; Tuesday, July 5* • «'• :-• 1 •- changed by Independence Day holiday New York Tuesday: June 7, July 5 Philadelphia Wednesday: June 8, July 6 Baltimore Thursday: June 9, July 7 Norfolk Thursday: June 9, July 7 Jacksonville Thiursday: June 9, July 7 ' Algonac Friday: June 10, July 8 Houston Monday: June 13, July 11 New Orleans Tuesday: June 14, July 12 Mobile Wednesday: June 15, July 13 San Francisco Thursday: June 16, July 14 Wilmington Monday: June 20, July 18 SfiWfllS, Seattle Friday: June 24, July 22 San Juan Thursday: June 9, July 7 St. Louis Friday: June 17, July 15 Honolulu Friday: June 17, July 15 Duluth Wednesday: June 15, July 13 AjAApyjvA;'' •; Jersey City Wednesday: June 22, July 20 New Bedford Tuesday: June 21, July 19 ij'-V--.., A" " . i A.' ••• ."Y ' . • • V -:- . ' -• --mm -AlSmiSiS: Vi ' ' Each port's meOhig starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals PHILIP J. JOHNSON (P.I.) Please call your sister at (504) 895-7476 or (205) 432-5100. GLORIA MELLUISH and WIGGIE REYES Please contact Jioia De Leon at (800) 839-2460. ERNEST EDWARD RICHARDSON Please contact Gloria regarding your daughter Georgette at (504) 895-1936. ROBERT MARTIN SMITH Please contact Maurica Shapiro at P.O. Box 7260, Houston, TX 77248. -. r Notices Maritime Memorial Day Services Set for Port Arthur Port Arthur, Texas will hold its annual Maritime Memorial Day ceremony at 10 a.m., Saturday, May 21. The location will be 900 Lakeshoie Drive at the Maritime Memorial Sundial. The service, which will be officiated by SlU member Father Sinclair Oubie, will honor the memory of the mariners who lost their lives at sea, especially those who died aboard the OMf Charger during an explosion near the Houston Ship Chaimel on October 9,1993. Texas Boatmen: Membership Meeting Sriieduled A general informational Seafarers membership meeting will be held Wednesday, May 4 at 2 p.m. It will taVft place at the Ramada Inn on Highway 87 in Port Arthur, Texas. For more information, contact the SlU hall in Houston at (713) 659-5152. I'-'. �III,:: • •m MAY 1994 fS SEAFARERS LOG • ••:• .„/. MJ:: Seafarers International Union Directory .4vv- .' •• vjf-V-;•' Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes MARCH 16 — APRIL 15,1994 L—Lakes NP—Non Priority CL—Company/Lakes TOTAL SHIPPED ••REGISTERED ON BEACH V'/t; •; 1 • •',• >. Michael Sacco ^•f'- President John Fay Secretary-Treasurer Joseph Sacco ExecutivesVii Vice President Augustin Tellez Vice President Collective Bargaining George McCartn^ Vice President West Coast Roy A. •'Buck" Mercer Vice President Government Services Jack Caffey Vice President Atlantic Coast Byron Kelley ;nt Lakes and Inland Waters Vice President Dean Coi Vice President du bast •'i- ' • >#•X- X '•'}X*'- - V ;• •, . "•Xl- : .' ; . ; '• M. I .- • ... i; .A ^ A ,„• HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301)199-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr. Algonac, MI 48001 313)794-4988 BALTIMORE 1216 E. Baltimore St. Baltimore, MD 21202 (410) 327-4900 DULUTH 705 Medical Arts Building Duluth,MN 55802 (218)722-4110 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St. Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St. Houston, TX 77002 (713)659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St. Jacksonville, PL 322D6 (904)353-0987 JERSEY CITY 99 Montgomery St Jersey Cihr.NJ 07302 (201)435-9424 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Hcwy. ; Mobife, AL 36605 (205)478-0916 NEW BEDFORD 48 Union St. New Bedford, MA 02740 (508)997-5404 NEW ORLEANS 630 Jackson Ave. New Orleans, LA 70130 (504)529-7546 NEWYORK 635 Fourth Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718)499-6600 NORFOLK 115ThirdSt. Norfolk, VA 23510 (804)622-1892 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215)336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75 Pmey Point, MD 20674 (301)994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 2 West Dixie Highway Dania, PL 33004 (305) 921-5661 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St. San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Government Services Division (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave. Stop 16V^ Santurce, PR 00907 (809)721-4033 SEATTLE 2505 First Ave. SeatUe,WA 98121 (206)441-1960 ST. LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave. St Louis, MO 63116 (314)752-6500 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Aye. Wilmington, CA 90744 (310)549-4000 •TOTAL REGISTERED a«,cL*"cSrc..»NP Port Algonac Port. Algonac i Port Algonac Port Algonac r Totals All Departments X:OX:: X-MX:vXx^. IjtvO 0 0 20 ••••••'• 4 64 7 a»cL*'Sra«,NP DECK DEPARTMENT 0 16 0 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 8 0 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 6 0 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 0 24 C^.^'^STL CU»NP 0 30 0 43:^;:}# ^ 1...-i 0 32 3 9 'li f-A.xB 0 •fc-.ji 0 0 39 11 0 123 17 * 'Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. ** "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters MARCH 16 — APRIL 15,1994 •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Watei West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Ckiast Gulf Coast 7 5 67 0 79 0 1 0 0 1 ••REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A ClassB Class C TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups aassA ClassB QassC DECK DEPARTMENT 4 1 13 71 89 0 5 0 19 24 2 6 21 7 54 3 85 0 0 0 27 27 0 0 0 1 1 n o 3 11 70 98 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 3 0 1 45 , 6 48 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 6 0 0 1 1 1 9 STEWARD DEPARTMENT J 0 1 3 West Coast Totals < 0 6 0 9 15 120 15 142 30 101 27 Totals All Departments 141 ' ••Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. ** "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. Don't Miss Out on a Piney Point Vacation There is plenty of time for Seafarers and their families to make reservations for summer vacation at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. As many SIU members already have discovered, Piney Point offers a pleasing mix of tranquility, ideal facilities and close proximity to a wide variety of historical sites and outdoor activities. Situated on the banks of the St. George's Creek, the Paul Hall Center features all the in­ gredients for a fim-fiilled vacation, either on the grounds or within driv­ ing distance. The center itself has a health spa, tennis courts, Olympic-size swim­ ming pool and plenty of picturesque space for peaceful walks or jogs on the beautifolly l^dscaped grounds. Nearby are many famous landmarks and other attractions—so many worthwhile adventures that it probably will be impossible to do them all during a one- or two-week vacation. The sights of Washington, Baltimore, Annapolis, Southern Maryland and Northern Virginia are within easy driving distance of Piney Point. In short, a Piney Point vacation has it all: swimming, boating, fish­ ing, arts and crafts, sightseeing, peace and quiet, historical and other educational sites, national landmarks, picturesque surroundings ... the list goes on and on. Piney Point is special -— and it is only available to Seafarers and their families. To take the first step toward making this year's vacation a memorable one, clip the coupon below and mail it to the Paul Hall Center. UNm MEMBER VACATION RATES A vacation stay at ttio Lundeberg School is limited to two weeks per family. Member $40.40/day Spouse $ 9.45/day Child $ 9.45/day Note: There is no charge for children 11 years of age or younger. Prices listed Hude ail meals. inciu SEAFARERS TRAINING & RECREATION CENTER Vacation Reservation Information I Name: Book number: Social Security number: Address: j Telephone number: Number in party / ages of children, if applicable:. Date of arrival: (stay is limited to tm weeks) 1St choice 2nd choice: 3rd choice: Send this completed application to the Seafarers Training & Recreation Center, P.O. Box 75, Piney Poira, MD 20674. 5/94 , ^ ,• .. ^^ .. . xx ^ "• .. .««•. P n'i''. • �•x'>-^.~'.;-*-„^. ,-'^^.;.i:<V'-'t ''••4'^-'":.y;':" :V ?•?'. •J -< MAY 1994 T he Seafarers Pension Plan this month announced the retirements of 11 SIU members. Seven of those signing off sailed in the deep sea division; one sailed the inland waterways and three the Great Lakes. Among those joining the r^nks of the retirees are Brothers John Little and Donald Pressly who completed bosun recertification courses at Piney Point. Seven of the retiring Seafarers served in the U.S. military—six in the Army and one in the Air Force. Of all the Seafarers signing off this month. Brother William Saltarez sailed the longest, having joined the union in 1951 in the port of New York. Brief biological sketches of Brothers Saltarez, Little, Pressly and the others follow. SEAFJUtERSUW ',i_'>!-'. •; in the deck department. He upgraded at the Lundeberg School in 1979. Boatman Byme served in the U.S. Army from 1952 to 1954. He retired to Park Ridge, 111. To Our New Pensioners ... Thanks for a Job Well Done Each month in the Seafarers LOG, the names of SIU members who recently have become pensioners appear with a brief biographical sketch. These men and women have served the maritime industry well, and the SIU and all their union brothers and sisters wish them happiness and health in the days ahead. RAMON IRULA, 65, joined the SIU in 1963 in the port of Houston. A native of Hon­ duras, he sailed in the engine department. Brother Irula upgraded at the Lundeberg School frequently. He resides in Metairie, La. JOHN LIT­ TLE JR., 61 DEEP SEA signed on with the union in 1959 JOHN CARin the port of MELLO,64, New York. joined the Bom in MelSeafarers in vin, Ky., he 1967 in the successhilly completed the bosun port of New recertification course at Piney York. Bom in Point in 1976. Brother Little served New Jersey, in the U.S. Army from 1955 to he sailed in 1957. He last sailed aboard the the engine department. Brother CarOverseas Arctic. Brother Little mello retired to Port Monmouth, calls Monticello, Ky. home. N.J. CHARLES MANN, 60, joined the Seafarers in 1962 in the port of New York. A North Carolina na­ tive, he sailed in the deck depart­ ment. Brother Mann upgraded fre­ quently at the Paul Hall Center. He served in the U.S. Army from 1952 to 1954. Brother Mann lives in Jesup, Ga. HASKELL MOORE, 65, joined the SIU in 1961 in the port of San Francis­ co. Bom in Wilburton, Okla., he sailed in the engine department. Brother Moore served in the U.S. Army from 1946 to 1948. He resides in Sequim, Wash. 17 GREAT LAKES RUDOLPH PACE, 65, joined the SIU in 1965 in the port of Buffalo, N.Y. A native of Exeter, Pa., —t—] he sailed in ; the steward department. Brother Pace upgraded frequently at Piney Point. He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1946 to 1947. Brother Pace still calls Exeter home. DONALD PRESSLY,63, joined the union in 1958 in the port of New York. A Yonkers, N.Y. na­ tive, he successfully completed the bosun recertification program at Piney Point in 1974. He still calls Yonkers home. WILLIAM SALTAREZ, 65, joined the Seafarers in 1951 in the port of New York. A New York native, he sailed in the steward department. Brother Saltarez resides in Houston. STANLEY WASLOWSKI, 65, joined the union in 1960 in the port of Detroit. Bom in WilkesBarre, Pa., he sailed in the deck department Brother Waslowski resides in Green Bay, Wis. INLAND BERNARD BYRNE, 62, signed on with the SIU in 1961 in his native Chicago. Boatman Byme sailed DAVID LEE WILLIS, 66, joined the Seafarers in 1963 in the port of Detroit. A native of Sullivan, Ind., he sailed in the deck department. Brother Willis served in the U.S. Army from 1946 to 1947. He retir^ to Superior, Wis. ••• • , • ?S.' ..f'Vi- [ '•' •-Y- . S5 : S-L Raleigh Bay Crew Shares Holiday Meal As the Sea-Land Raleigh Bay pulled into the Port Elizabeth, N.J. dock, crewmembers had more on their minds than just being happy to be home, or of offloading die vessel's cargo of containers, or even of the upcoming payoff. For it was April 3—Easter Sunday— and Chief Steward Eddie CoUins and the galley gang had prepared a special holiday luncheon consist­ ing of, among other choices, prime rib of beef with all the trimmings. The Easter feast came at the conclusion of the containership's recent Meditoranean run, according to New York Patrolman Jack Shedian, who met the vessel upon arrival and who sent the photographs accompanjdng this article to the Seafarers LOG. He answered any questions the crewmembers had about union activities and made sure there were plenty of LOGs aboard ship as well as a supply of upgrading, vacation and claims forms for the next voyage. The 42,720 ton vessel is owned .. ^ ' *v. The Sea-Land Raleigh Say arrives at the dock In Port Elizabeth, N.J. In time for the Easter holiday. -. ,• .'.v. •" •; • and operated by Sea-Land Service Inc. and presently sails under a shared vessel agreement with four other shipping companies, P&O, OOCL, Maersk and Nedlloyd. Enjoying a delicious Easter lunch aboard ship are (from left) AB Robert Kirk, QMED/Electrician Paul Titus and AB James Peacock. f- Correction: Galley Gang on F.D. Roosevelt •v' % • Partlcloatlnq In payoff procedures aboard the Sea-LandRaleigh Bayare (from left) AB Robert Kirk, Bosun Tony "Jose^Martlnez, QMED Rashid All and AB Mark Folk. A photo caption In the April Issue of the Seafarers LOG mlsidentlfled SIU members who sailin the steward department on board the President F.D. Roosevelt. The correct Identifications for the galley gang members in the photo reprinted above are as follows: squatting at far left wearing white shirt Is Assistant Cook Alvin Solomon; kneeling at right with hand on chin is Chief Cook Joseph Tucker: and standing at far right is Steward/Baker A. Davis. The photo was provided by SIU Representative George Tricker, who also is pictured standing fourth from the rignt holding comer of flag. Chief Steward Eddie Collins and . f f _• r-rr-.-vr-'i' j •' } •' ' jlr iV' J ,' dZ: l:f"iuLu- J"'. �-i*, 18 v.% MAY 1994 SBV/U^LOe Final Departures DEEP SEA H'r ;:4; •' ^ V-W'i li:i":'-K ' ' RAYMOND ALLEN Pensioner Raymond Allen, 60, passed away March 25. Bom in Mobile, Ala. he joined the Seafarers in 1953 in the port of Galveston, Texas. Brother Allen upgraded at the Lundeberg School in 1978. He retired in April 1993. ment. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1935 to 1954. Brother Fagan retired in January 1987. RALPH CAPETTA Ralph Capetta, 31, died Decem­ ber 14. A San Juan, P.R. native, he joined the union in 1982 in Piney Point. Brother Capetta sailed in the deck department. LYMAN LAI Pensioner Lyman Lai, 64, died Febmary 4. A native of China, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards (MC&S) in 1968 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District (AGLIWD). Brother Lai served in the U.S. Army from 1945 to 1957. He began receiving his pension in June 1992. RAYMOND BROWN Raymond Brown, 54, died March 27. Rejoined the union in 1962 in his native New Orleans. Brother Brown suc­ cessfully completed the bosun recertification program at Piney Point in 1987. He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1956 to JOHN LINCOLN 1960. INLAND WALTER REIMER Pensioner Walter Reimer, 64, died March 11. A native of New York,N.Y., he joined the union in 1969 in the port of Jacksonville, Fla. Boat­ man Reimer sailed in the deck department. He began receiving his pension in July 1992. ULAS COFFMAN Pensioner Ulas Coffman, 61 passed away March 21. Bom in Kansas, he joined the Seafarers in 1951 in the port of Galveston, Texas. Boatman Coffman sailed in the deck department. He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1953 to 1956. Boatman Coffman retired March 1. ALLEN SHERRILL Pensioner Allen Sherrill, 84, passed away March 23. Bom in Orange, Texas, he joined the SIU in 1964 in the port of Port Ar­ thur, Texas. Boatman Sherrill sailed in the engine department. He retired in June 1973. BENNIE STEWART Pensioner Bennie Stewart, 71, died March 16. A Magnolia, Miss, native, he joined the Seafarers in 1956 in the port of New Orleans. Boatman Stewart sailed in the deck department. He began receiving his pension in September 1984. GREAT LAKES ROBERT McTAVICH Robert McTavich, 56, passed away March 22. Bom in WilkesBarre, Pa., he joined the union in 1960 in the port of Detroit. Brother McTavich last sailed as a wheelsman aboard the Paul Thayer. RecertUiea Bosun Donald Rood Buried at Soa Brother's Final Wishes Carried Out by Crew On March 16, with the flag at half mast and the engines idled. Seafarers and officers aboard the LNG Capricorn paused to remem­ ber former shipmate Recertified Bosun Donald Rood, as they scattered his ashes into the sea off the coast of the Philippine Islands. Captain Robert Roes read a brief benedic­ tion as the crew watched silently while Bosun Charlie Kahl gave Rood's ashes to the Sulu Sea. Bosun Kahl was a longtime friend of the deceased Seafarer. Bom in Omaha, Neb., Brother Rood joined the Seafarers in 1945 in the port of New York. He successfully completed the bosun recer­ tification program at the Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, Md. in 1976. Brother Rood retired in April 1988. Donald Rood passed away October 8,1992 at the age of 72. Besides the Capricorn, Rood sailed aboard the andA^MoriM^. He had requested his body be left to medi­ cal science and his ashes taken aboard the Bosun Charlie Kahl spreads the ashes of Recertified Capricorn and scattered at sea. His final Bosun Donald Rood into the Sulu Sea off the coast of the Philippine Islands. wishes were carried out. Pensioner John Lin­ ERNESTO BUCANO coln, 70, Pensioner , passed away Ernesto March 15. Bucano, 95, Bom in passed away North March \2. Carolina, he Bom in the joined the Philippine Is­ Seafarers in lands, he 1969 in the port of Norfolk, Va. joined the Brother Lincoln sailed in the en­ SlUin 1948 gine department. He served in in the port of New York. Brother he U.S. Navy from 1943 to Bucano sailed in the steward 946. Brother Lincoln retired in department. He served in the September 1988. U.S. Army Air Force from 1921 to 1924. Brother Bucano began LARENCE OWENS receiving his pension in Septem­ Pensioner ber 1968. Clarence Owens, 69, EUGENE CECCATO died March Pensioner 24. A native LOG-A-RHYTHM Eugene Cecof Ten­ cato, 70, nessee, he passed away joined the Febmary 10. SIU in 1946 Bom in in the port of Ohio, he 4ew Orleans. Brother Owens by Freda H. Babinski joined the sailed in the deck department. He Seafarers in yegan receiving his pension in These words are for all He helped me to feel 1949 in the November 1980. •f- • who serve on the sea. port of New York. Brother Ceca closeness to you, cato sailed in the deck depart­ You're special I know / learned to respect LOYD PERKINS ment. He upgraded at the yet strangers to me. the job that you do. Lundeberg School in 1982. Pensioner Floyd Brother Ceccato retired in I know of your lives Perkins, 67, November 1985. and places you go, Three years have gone by passed away The things that you do BERESFORD EDWARDS March 9. since he passed away. to help this world groyv. Pensioner Bom in But memories of him Beresford Ed­ Holly Bluff, are with me today. Your job is unique wards, 94, Miss., he joined the died March as each one of you. 7. A native union in So I have been told So when your heart cries 955 in the port of Savannah, of Trinidad, by one of your crew. for you to go home^ he joined the Ga. Brother Perkins sailed in the engine department. He served in SIU in 1947 Remember that you For thirty-one years in the port of the U.S. Army from 1944 to are never alone. he sailed on the sea, New York. 946. Brother Perkins retired in Such stories he told Brother Edwards sailed in the September 1988. steward department. He began with love just for me. Look up at the stars receiving his pension in August GREGORIO REYES Each time when he left 1972. each one it its place. Pensioner as I knew he would, You 'II feel all the warmth LAWRENCE FAGAN Gregorio Such pain in my heart from his sweet embrace. Reyes, 82, Pensioner but I understood. died March Lawrence 24. A native Fagan, 78, He never was married They'll be someone there of Puerto passed away except to the sea, Rico, he you 'II know who I mean, March 9. joined the He loved only two— Bom in WilGOD BLESS YOU my friend SIU in 1945 liston, N.D., the ocean and me. "THE MERCHANT MARINE." in the port of he joined the Philadelphia. Brother Reyes union in sailed in the steward department. This poem is a special dedication by Freda H. Babinski to all the men and women who have served 1962 in the He began receiving his pension port of Norfolk, Va. Brother m the merchant marine, especially to her godfather, Chester Christenson of McEwen, Tenn , who sailed with the SIU for 31 years and died October 22,1990. Fagan sailed in the engine depart­ in November 1977. The Merchant Marine fW- l£fiv;f" M ^i. • c-" !•; �S. MAY 1994 SEAFARERSLOG 19 SAM HOUSTON (Waterman Ortiz for good meals and housekeep­ for job well done. Next port: St. Steamship), February 27—Chair­ ing. Next poit: Diego Garcia. Rose, La. man Andrew Mack, Secretary R. CAPE WRATH(Amsea), March ITB BALTIMORE (Sheridan Bright, Educational Director E. 20—Chairman Steve Melendez, Transportation), March 4—Chair­ Neathery, Deck Delegate James Secretary Lauren Oram, Deck man J. Rogers, Secretary A. Mar­ Walker. Chairman announced The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union ship­ payoff in New Orleans and noted Delegate B. Brunette, Engine tinez, Steward Delegate Scott Delegate R. Oppel, Steward Bruscella. Chairman noted crew board minutes as possible. On occasion, b^use of space this crew is one of the best. He ad­ Delegate D. Landry. Chairman waiting for contract news. He ad­ vised crewmembers to upgrade at limitations, some vfiii be omitted. vised members of payoff in New Paul Hall Center. Secretary thanked asked crewmembers to use cour­ York and reminded them to keep tesy in laundry rooms. He dis­ Ships minutes first are reviewed by the union's contract departnwnt crew and officers for making trip an galley and mess hall clean at night. cussed overtime rates, new Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the excellent one. Treasurer reported Educational director urged mem­ contract and lifeboat procedures $470 in movie fund. No brefs or dis­ union upon receipt of ttie ships minutes. The minutes are then bers to uppade at Piney Point. No with crewmembers and extended puted OT reported. Crew requested forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. beefs or disputed OT reported. thanks to Baltimore union hall. copies of new contract on ship. Also Secretary noted linens to be dis­ Crew extended vote of thanks to crew noted need for wearing masks tributed when washer is repaired. CHARLES L. Sf?OIVW (Tran­ galley gang for great meals. disputed OT reported. Crew asked around stackhouse. Entire aew gave soceanic Cable), January 28—• contracts department to look into vote of dianks to galley gang for out­ Educational director reminded ITB PHILADELPHIA (Sheridan Chairman J. Harrington, members to upgrade at Lun­ reducing time required to collect standing Thanksgiving and Transportation), March 31—Chair­ deberg School. No beefs or dis-' Secretary B. Kamiya, Educational vacation check. Crew advised Christmas dinners. Next port Nor­ man Dan Marcus, Secretary J.P. puted OT reported. Crew asked Director W. Carroll, Engine chairman that entertainment center folk, Va. Emidy, Educational Director J.R. contracts department to clarify Delegate Robert Powers, Steward in crew lounge not working. Crew CameU, Deck Delegate Joe SEAUFT ARCTIC (IMC), sailing board procedures. Crew Delegate Kenneth Cabato. Chair­ reported antenna once again needs Mieluchowski, Engine Delegate requested refrigerators for man advised members of payoff repair. Crew gave special thanks to February 23—Chairman Soimy Simeon Rivas, Steward Delegate Herrei^ Secretary D. Clay, quarters and variety of juices. schedule. He added ship will off­ Chief Cook Dadang Risbldi for Jack Hart Chairman thanked Educational Director E. Perreira, Next port: Charleston, S C. load cable and sail from St. outstanding meals each day. Deck Delegate N. Bean, Engine Thomas, V.I. Secretary urged mem­ INGER (Sealifl Bulkers), February Delegate G. Howard, Steward bers to conserve water while in 27—Chairman Stanley Jandora, D^egate A. Nasser. Qiairman port. Educational director reported Secretary Vincent Sanchez Jr., reported crew received officers' crew needs new washing machine. Deck £>elegate Willie Chestnut, old VCR for crew lounge. He He advised crewmembers to be Engine Delegate Eduardo Elemen- noted crewmernbers viewed "Scan­ safety conscious. Treasurer an­ to. Steward Delegate J. Martinez. dal at Sea." Educational director ad­ nounced $4(X) in ship's fund. No Chairman announced ship's arrival vised members to upgrade at beefs or disputed OT reported. date in New Orleans and noted Lundeberg School. Treasurer Crew asked contracts department next trip may be to Egypt with load reported $270 in ship's fund. Deck, for copy of new agreement. Crew engine and steward delegates noted forward escape hatch is leak­ of steel. He added repair list posted. No beefs or disputed OT reported disputed OT. Crew ing and needs repair. reported. Steward delegate reminded of no smoking policy OMIDYNACHEM(OMl), reminded crewmembers to turn cof­ during meal hours. January 23—Chairman Larry fee maker off at night when not in SEA-LAND PACIFIC(Sea-Land ^ Kunc, Secretary Frank Costango, use. Crew gave vote of thanks to Educational Director W. Weekley, galley gang for job well done. Next Service), February 28—Chairman Hayden Gifford, Secretaty Deck Delegate Charles Foley, En­ port: Mobile, Ala. George Bronson, Educational gine Delegate Rowell Van Unen, LNG VIRGO (ETC), February Director Steve Bigelow, Deck Steward Delegate Tom Kreis. 27—Chairman Jack Rhodes, Delegate D. Brunamonti, Engine Chairman noted new contracts Secretary Zein Achmad, Educa­ Delegate J. Arnold, Steward should be sent to ship soon. Educa­ tional Director Bruce Smith, Delegate R. Pouliot. Chairman dis­ tional director urged members to cussed arrival in Tacoma, Wash, upgrade skills when possible at Lun- Steward Delegate Ralph McKee. From the left, AS John Gilliam, Steward Assistant Mahmoud Megeed, sailing. and transportation of crewmembers Chairman reported smooth deberg School. Treasurer announced Steward Assistant Darlene Montgomery and AB Thomas Parisi take Educational director reminded mem­ home. He mentioned new safety captain donated tape rewinder for part in a recent union meeting aboard the le 2nd,it. John Paul Bobo in bers to upgrade skills at Lundeberg packet posted around ship. He crew lounge. No beefs or disputed the port of Panama City, Fla. School. No beefs or disputed OT urged members to donate to SPAD OT reported. Chairman reminded and upgrade at Piney Point. Educa­ crewmembers to use ice scoop when reported. Crew noted "Scandal at CHARLES L. BROWN (Tran­ deck crew for good seamanship tional director thanked members getting ice and not bare hands. Crew Sea" video viewed during meeting. soceanic Cable), March 3-^hairwhen cleaning tanks and preparing Next port: Tobata, Japan. for keeping crew laundry, lounge discussed having ship fumigated for man J. Harrin^on, Secretary B. ship for port and sea. He also ex­ and quarters clean. He also thanked bugs. Crew gave vote of thanks to OMIDYNACHEM(OMl), Kamiya, Educational Director W. tended vote of thanks to steward electrician for donating movies to galley gang for job well done. Next February 20—Chairman Larry department for excellent meals Carroll, Deck Delegate Tony ship library and reminded eligible port: Bellingham, Wash. Kunc, Secretary Steven Wagner, Sivola, Engine Delegate Robert prepared each day. Secretary members to upgrade skills at Paul Powers, Steward Delegate Ken Educational Director W. Weekley, Hall Center. No beefs or disputed reported everything running am LEADER (OMl), January ^ Deck Delegate Charles Foley, En­ OT reported. Crew thanked smooth as silk. Educational direc­ Cabato. Chairman announced ar­ 3—Chairman Patrick Rankin, tor reminded members with rival date in St. Thomas, V.I. and gine Delegate R. Van Unen, steward department for good meals Secretary Rebecca Sleeper, Educa­ enough sea time to take advantage told crew of payoff at end of Steward Delegate Tom Kreis. and job well done. tional Director James McDaniel, month. He reported cable watches of upgrading opportunities at Paul Chairman reported new VCRs for Deck Delegate Craig Pare, STONEWALL JACKSON Hall Center. He also stressed im­ to begm until all cable is loaded crew and officers' lounge received Steward Delegate Stanley Krysportance of reading Seafarers and ship goes into cable standby. (Waterman Steamship), February and noted old one to be used as tosiak. Captain requested new LOG. No beefs or disputed OT He also advised members to prac­ 27—Chairman Carl Lineherry, back up. He urged members to VCR for crewmembers. He noted tice safety at all times and to report reported. Steward delegate advised Secretary E. Hoitt, Educationd payoff set for Los Angeles. Educa­ keep grease and oil off chairs in crew of importance of donating to all safety items, repairs, etc. to Director Wayne McKeeler, Deck mess hall. Educational director tional director reported December SPAD. He noted it is vital to keep department heads. Crewmembers Delegate Rohert Christensen, En­ reminded members to upgrade at issue of Seafarers LOG has Piney a strong voice for maritime in gine Delegate M. Novak, Steward viewed "Scandal at Sea" video. Kney Point. No beefs or disputed Point course descriptions. No beefs Washington, D.C. where it counts. Education^ director reported crew Delegate F. Zaharan. Chairman OT reported. Crew discussed ben­ or disputed OT reported. Crew ex­ Chief cook thanked deck and en­ laundry temporarily shut down advised crewmembers next port zene testing and confusion over ex­ tended special vote of thanks to gine departments for keeping mess until electrical panel repairs com­ would be Alexandria, Egypt, then piration dates. Crew thanked galley Chief Steward Sleeper for obtain­ h^ clean during off hours. onto Suez Canal for eastbound leg pleted. Treasurer reported $400 in gang for great job. Chairman ing fresh Christmas trees for crew ship's fund. No beefs or disputed of voyage. Secretary reported aU diaidced entire crew for excellent and officers. Crew also gave LIBERTY SUN (Liberty OT reported. Crew asked contracts union forms are av^able should response in the rescue of foiu thanks for special meal served by Maritime), March 6—Chairman department for copies of new agree­ Costa Rican fishermen. Crewmem­ crewmembers need them. Educa­ galley gang and Christmas gifts Glen James, secretary Norman ment. Crew sent "Aloha Oi" to tional director encouraged mem­ bers donated clothes, and steward sent by Houston area churches. Dube, Educational Dftector L. Tom Fay at Piney Point from the bers to upgrade skills at Piney department prepared hot meals for Malt^ Deck Delegate Patrick "Hawaii Bunch." Point when on beach. Treasurer those rescu^. Next port: Houston. AfVIERICAN HERITAGE(Apex Baker, Steward Delegate Joseph reported $480 in ship's fund. Deck, Marine), January 27—Chairman COVE ENDEA VOR (Cove Ship­ Brooks. Deck and steward OMl MISSOURI (Vulcan Car­ engine and steward delegates Bryan Iversen, Engine Delegate J. riers), February 13—Chairman delegates reported disputed OT. ping), March 28—Chairman C.C. reported disputed OT. Crew Overby, Steward Delegate N. Crew requested new washing Smit^ Secretary Thomas Wybo, Cesar Gutierrez, Secretary Clyde reported patrolman delivered Jackson. Chairman reported crew machine. Educational Director C. Keith Kreiss, Steward Delegate James Seafarers LOGs to ship. Crewmem­ worked hard during long voyage. Duimavant, Deck Delegate Hm Padmore. Education^ director ad­ bers discussed smoking policy No beefs or disput^ OT repoi^. UBERTY WAVE(Uberty Troupe, Engine Delegate Victor vised members to upgrade at Lun­ aboard ship. Crew requested Chairman noted Seafarers LOGs Maritime), March 13^-Chairman Rewerts, Steward Delegate deberg School. Deck delegate repair of antenna for crew not being received. Crew gave vote reported disputed OT. No beefs or Calvin Miles, Secretary Lee Moham^ Ahmed. Chairman dis­ quarters and gave vote of thanks of thanks to steward department for disputed OT reported by engine or Frazier, Deck Delegate Floyd Pat­ cussed ship's itinerary with crew­ to galley gang for job well done. jood meals during long trip. Chair­ steward delegates. Chairman sug­ terson, Engine Delegate Victor members. Treasurer reported Steward delegate announced man reported ship sch^uled for Quioto, Steward Ddegate R As$97.50 in ship's fund. No beefs or gested crewmembers signing off , receipt of new toaster. stop in Oregon before sailing to cone. Crew requested new lounge ^sputed OT reported. Steward should put old work clothes in a Bangladesh, Durban, South Africa furniture. Educational director delegate reminded crewmembers to AMERICAN CORMORANT box for use by other crewmembers and Houston for payoff. reminded members to upgrade at clean up after themselves in mess (Osprey Shipping), March 13— when needed. Lundeberg School. No b^fii or dis­ hall. Crew noted galley freezer in Chairman V. Huelett, Secretary FRANCES HAMMER (Ocean puted OT reported. Chairman asked need of repair. Chairman asked D.K. Goggins, Educational Di^Shipholding), February 14—Chair­ ll4iV6£l7 (Vulcan Carriers), tor R. Mac, Deck DelegaW C. Pat­ crewmembers to load washer com­ contracts department to clarify February 16—Chairman Johnny man P. Tnsa, Secretary J. Price, sanitary wodc over wedonids. pletely before beginning cycle and Wolfe, Secretary C. Chang, Educa­ terson, Engine Delegate Robert ^ucational Director R. Butler. remember to clean lint filter before McDonald, Steward Delegate Chairman reminded crew February tional Ehrector H. Smith, Engine OMl LEADER (OMI), March 6— beginning dryer. He reminded crew Chairman Patridr Rari^ Delegate M. Napier. Chairman ad­ Robert Wright. Chairman re­ 21 is Presidents Day, a paid union to keep lounge clean by putting quested new microwave oven and vised members not to throw plas­ loliday. He noted ship on way to Secretary Rdlieoca Sleeper, Educanewspapers, magazines and vidro lefiigeiator for galley. Educational tics overboard. He noted vessel 4ew Jersey to unload with next tiorral Director H. ChainQr,Deck tapes away when done. Crew dis­ returning to stateside route after off­ director noted copy of new contract destination unknown. Secret^ Delegate Craig Pare. Oiairirtan cussed developing system for received and advised all seamen to loading grain in Albania. He dianl^ stewa:^ delate fra* goirtg asked crewmembers to save juice checking out movies. Crew re­ upgrade and furdier skills at Paul thanked crewmembers for excellent cans so deck and engine depart­ ashore artd picking out new VCR frn* quested new T.V., microwave oven crew. Educational directrx' discussed Colter. No beefs ordieted job. He reminded aew that a layup is ments can use them for painting. and improved antenna reception. OT repotted. Crew extended special possible soon and advised diem to Educational director encouraged oil spijl class available at Piney Point Members asked chairman to advise artd urged crewmerrtbers to support stay off main deck in severe weather. thanks to steward depaitment memmembers to upgrade skills at Paul crew on when new movies arrive. bos Steward/Baker Goggins, Chief No beefe or disputed OT repmled. Hall Center. Treasurer reported They thanked steward department Cook Wright aiid SA Migdalia Next port New York. 150 in ship's fund. No beefs or Continued on page 20 Digest of Ships Meetings Meeting Time I'K' : . A'Kf' "-I. i. ; y. 'A - f 1 ' y'-. fAi:' -''-X '• ''y yy ' •> .-'J-' ' ' . AvVA ://[/ �20 MAY 1994 SEAPAKIKUie Ships D^est Continued from page 19 MDL (Maritime Defense League). Deck delegate reported beef. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegates. OMI LEADER (OMl), March 20—Chairman Patrick Rankin, Secretary Rebecca Sleeper, Educa­ tional Director H. Chancey, Deck Delegate Criiig Pare, Engine E>elegate Rudolph Lopez. Chair­ man reported patrolinan boarded ship in Honolulu. Chairman also told crew payoff scheduled in Texas, and he requested another patrolman meet vessel there. He added that due to length of trip, laundry soap would rationed for remainder of trip. Educational director discussed safety aboard ship and encouraged crew to report any unsafe conditions. Deck delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegates. Crewmembers gave vote of thanks to Chief Pumpman Chancey for his hard work. Next port: Texas City, Texas. OMI MISSOURI (Vulcan Car­ riers), March 20—Chairman Cesar Gutierrez, Secretary Clyde Kreiss, Deck Delegate Randal Evans, Engine Delegate James Thibodeau, Steward Delegate James Padmore. Chairman praised crew for smooth trip. Deck delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegates. Chair­ man advised members to attend all union meetings. He asked crew to keep crew lounge's newly upholstered furniture clean and not sit with sharp objects in pockets that will tear fabric. OVERSEAS HARRIETTE (Maritime Overseas), March 15— Chairman Peter Victor, Secretary G. Quinn, Educational Director M. Marino, Deck Delegate D. Charles, Engine Delegate A. Medino, Steward Delegate R. Xatruch. Chairman noted very good trip with good crew. Secretary encouraged members to upgrade skills at Piney Point. Deck delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegates. Crew noted Seafarers LOGs received. Members discussed installing new washer and dryer. They thanked galley gang for job well done. Next port: Lake Charles, La. reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegates. Chairman circu­ lated new repair list and told crew to let captain know if new mattres­ ses are needed. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang for excellent service keeping ship clean and for great salad bar. Chairman dis­ cussed Coast Guard efforts to tax seamen's documents and circulated petition to halt such efforts. Next port: Valdez, Alaska. SEA-LAND CONSUMER (SeaLand Service), March 20—Chair­ man Francis Adams, Secretary Don Dwyer, Engine Delegate Royce Barrett, Steward Delegate Ernest Polk. Chairman urged members to donate to SPAD and write congressmen asking them to fight for strong U.S.-flag fleet. He extended vote of thanks to Seafarers LOG staff for job well done. Educational director reminded members to read LOG and take Hazmat training at Piney Point. Steward delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or ^sputed OT reported by deck or engine delegates. Crew thanked galley gang for great job and homemade bread and pastries. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. SEA-LAND CONSUMER (SeaLand Service), March 31—Chair­ man Francis Adams, Secretaiy Don Dwyer, Engine Delegate Royce Barrett, Steward Delegate Ernest Polk. Chairman noted smooth sailing and gave vote of thanks to all departments. He reminded members to give to SPAD because "politics is pork chops." He advised crewmembers to r^ new contract Educational director discussed benefits of upgrad­ ing at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman stressed importance of reading Seafarers LOG. Crew gave vote of thanks to steward department for great meals. Chairman reminded members to rewind videotapes. Next wit: Long Beach, Calif. la. Chairman announced arrival in port and upcoming U.S. Coast Guard insp^tion. He reported smooth sailing. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. SEA-LAND EXPRESS (SeaLand Service), March 26—Chair­ man D. Fleehearty, Secretary G. Bryant, Educational Director A. Bell, Deck Delegate Albert Moore, Engine Delegate A. Han­ sen, Steward Delegate Joel Crow. Chairman urged members to donate to SPAD and upgrade skills at Piney Point. He reminded crewmembers to take garbage to gar­ bage room on main deck. Educational director advised mem­ bers signing off to clean rooms for next member. Deck and engine delegates reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by steward delegate. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang for job well done. Chairman thanked crew for keeping laundry and recreation rooms clean and orderly. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. SEA-LAND RELIANCE (SeaLand Service), March 20—Chair­ man Mel TalaJotu, Secretary F. Slson, Educational Director R. RIsbeck. Deck Delegate Jerry Casugay, Engine lielegate Roger Wesserman, Steward Delegate Carol Grycko. Chairman extended special vote of thanks to steward department for fine meals. Educa­ tional director urged members to take advantage of upgrading cour­ ses at Lundeberg School. Deck delegate reportV disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegates. Crew requested TV antenna and VCR. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. SEA-LAND SP//7/r(Sea-Land Service), March 16—Chairman Howard Gibbs, Secretary A. Delaney, Educational Director Austin Horn, Steward Delegate Bradford Mack. Chairman reminded members to read ship's safety manual. Educational director advised crewmembers to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or• disputed OT reported. Crew gave ive vote of thanks to galley gang for job well done. Next port: Honolulu. SEA-LAND DEFENDER (Sea..and Service), March 12—Chair­ man Robert Wagner, Secretary John Alamar, Educational Direc­ tor Alfred McQuade, Steward delegate Ignacio Fontelera. Secret^ thanked crew for keeping USNS BELLATRIX(Bay Ship recreation room and all areas Management), March 16-^hairclean. He reminded members to fill man Bruce Korte, Secretary R. out change of address form if moving. Disputed OT reported by en- Wilcox, Educational Director Chris McKinney, Deck Delegate pne delegate. No beefs or disput^ Joe Sausek, Engine Delegate Ron 3T by deck or steward delegates. Day, Steward Delegate Randy Next port Oakland, Calif. Stephens. Crew requested exercise SEA-LAND DEVELOPER (Sea- equipment, VCR in engine depart­ OVERSEAS 0H/0(Maritime Land Service), March 10—Chair­ ment lounge and new video tapes. Overseas), March 25—Chairman man D. Cella, Secretary L. Pinn, Chairman asked contracts depart­ Robert Pagan Jr., Secretary Earl Vocational Director M. Miller, ment if crew is covered by war Gray Sr., Educational Director M. Deck Delegate John Kelly, Engine zone pay for time in Mogadishu, R ibeiro. Deck Delegate Delegate S. Haniford. Chairman Soms^a. Secretary reported all SIU John Baker, Engine Delegate Nor­ reported new washing machine or­ forms available in steward's office. man Israel, Steward Delegate dered. He advised members to Educational director told members Duane Bergeson. Chairman noted upgrade at Lundeberg School and to check Seafarers LOG for upgrad­ good crew on board and en­ donate to SPAD. Educational direc­ ing schedule at Lundeberg School couraged everyone to keep up tor reminded members who intend and urged them to apply. No beefs good work. He asked members to to sail on tankers in future to attend or disputed OT reported. Steward help DEU in keeping ship cleap. upgrading courses at Paul Hall Cen­ delegate thanked crewmembers for Secretary encourag^ crewmemter. Deck delegate reported dis­ keeping mess hall clean. Crew bers to continue separating plastic OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported poor mail service. Chair­ lirom regular garbage and requested puted eported by engine or steward man asked contracts department to them to observe smoke-free rules delegates. Crew requested new TV verify holiday and weekend pay. in lounge and mess hall (now part and washing machine. Next port: He thanked crew for good voyage. of new contract). Deck delegate ""acoma. Wash. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang for good meals and service. SEA-LAND DISCOVERY (SeaNext port: Durban, South Africa. Land Service), March 6—Chair­ man Nelson Sala, Secretary J.R. Hells, Education^ Director Tom *risco. Deck Delegate F. Rivera^ mgine Delegate R. Martinez, The ship's minutes of Steward Delegate Radames January 26 for the USNS Silas Cosme. Chairman said payoff Bent which appearaed in the would take place as soon as patrol­ March 1994 issue of the man arrives. Treasurer reported Seafarers LOG incorrectly $50 in ship's fund. No b^fs or dis­ stated the amount of days puted OT reported. Crew thanked needed in order to apply for ;alley gang for job well done. vacation. The minimum total SEA-LAND EXPLORER (Seaseatime needed still is 120 days. Land Service), March 20—Chair­ The minutes as printed should man Jack Kingsley, Secretary have read the crew requested ' Yilliam Burdette, Educational that the contracts department Director Guy Pollard Lowsley, consider reducing the mini­ QMED Imro Solomon stands Deck Delegate D.L.Sanfillppo, mum days needed for vaction to before the engineroom control Engine Delegate Steve Byerley, board on the LNG Leo. 90. Steward Delegate Musaid Abdul- Keeping Watch Correction: Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS monies are to be paid to anyone in The constitution of the SIU Atlan­ any official capacity in the SIU tic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters unless an official union receipt is District makes specific provision given for same. Under no cir­ for safeguarding the membership's cumstances should any member money and union finances. The pay any money for any reason un­ constitution requires a detailec less he is given such receipt. In the audit by catified public accountants event anyone attempts to require everj' year, which is to be submittec any such payment be made without to the membership by the secretaiy- supplying a receipt, or if a member tieasuier. A yearly finance commit­ is required to make a payment and tee of rank-and-file members, is given an official receipt, but elected by the membership, each feels that he or she should not have year examines the finances of the been required to make such pay­ union and reports fiilly their find­ ment, this should inunediately be ings and recommendations. Mem­ reported to union headquarters. bers of this committee may make CONSTITUTIONAL dissenting reports, specific recom­ RIGHTS AND OBLIGA­ mendations and separate findings. TIONS. Copies of the SIU con­ TRUST FUNDS. All trust stitution are available in all union funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, halls. All members should obtain Lakes and Inland Waters District copies of this constimtion so as to are administered in accordance familiarize themselves with its con­ with the provisions of various trust tents. Any time a member feels any fund agreements. All these agree­ other member or officer is attempt­ ments specify that the trustees in ing to deprive him or her of any charge of these funds shall equally constimtional right or obligation by consist of union and management any methods, such as dealing widi representatives and their alter­ charges, trials, etc., as well as all nates. All expenditures and disbur­ other details, the member so affected sements of trust funds are made should inunediately notify head­ only upon approval by a majority quarters. of the trustees. All trust fiind finan­ EQUAL RIGHTS. All mem­ cial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust bers are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A the SIU. These rights are clearly set member's shipping rights and forth in the SIU constitution and in seniority are protected exclusively the contracts which the union has by contracts between the union and negotiated with the employers. the employers. Members should Consequently, no member may be get to Imow their shipping rights. discriminated against because of Copies of these contracts are race, creed, color, sex, national or posted and available in all union geographic origin. If any member halls. If members believe there feels that he or she is denied the have been violations of their ship­ equal rights to which he or she is ping or seniority rights as con­ entitled, the member should notify tained in the contracts between the union headquarters. union and the employers, they SEAFARERS POLITICAL should notify the Seafarers Ap­ ACTIVITY DONATION — peals Board by certified mail, SPAD. SPAD is a separate return receipt requested. The segregated fund. Its proceeds are proper address for this is: used to further its objects and pur­ Augustin Tellez, Chairman poses including, but not limited to, Seafarers Appeals Board furthering the political, social and 5201 Auth Way economic interests of maritime Camp Springs, MD 20746 workers, the preservation and fur­ Full copies of contracts as thering of the American merchant referred to are available to members marine with improved employ­ at all dmes, either by writingdirectly ment opportunities for seamen and to the union or to the Seafarers Ap­ boatmen and the advancement of peals Board. trade union concepts. In connec­ CONTRACTS. Copies of all tion with such objects, SPAD sup­ SIU contracts are available in all SIU ports and contributes to political halls. These contracts specify the candidates for elective office. All wages and conditions under which contributions are voluntary. No an SIU member works and lives contribution may be solicited or aboard a ship or boat. Members received because of force, job dis­ should know Aeir contract rights, as crimination, financial reprisal, or well as their obligations, such as threat of such conduct, or as a con­ filing forovertime (OT) on the proper dition of membership in the union sheets and in the propa- manner. If, at or of employment. If a contribution any time, a memba: believes that an is made by reason of the above SIU patrolman or otho- union official improper conduct, the member fails to protect their contracmal rights should notify the Seafarers Inter­ proporly, he or she should contact the national Union or SPAD by cer­ nearest SIU port agent tified mail within 30 days of the EDITORIAL POLICY — contribution for investigation and THE SEAFARERS LOG. The appropriate action and refund, if Seafarers LOG traditionally has involuntary. A member should refrained fiom publishing any article support SPAD to protect and fur­ serving the political purposes of any ther his or her economic, political individual in the union, officer or and social interests, and member. It also has refi^ned from American trade union concepts. mblishing articles deemed harmful If at any time a member feels o the union or its collective mem- that any of the above rights have rership. This established policy has reen violated, or that he or she has jeen reaffirmed by membCTship ac­ been denied the constitutional tion at the September 1960 meet­ right of access to union records or ings in all constitutional ports. The information, the member should res]^nsibility for Seafarers LOG immediately notify SIU President )olicy is vested in an editorial Michael Sacco at headquarters by ward which consists of the execu­ certified mail, return receipt re­ tive board of the union. The execu­ quested. The address is: tive board may delegate, from Michael Sacco, President among its ranks, one individual to Seafarers Intemational Union carry out this responsibility. 5201 Auth Way PAYMENT OF MONIES. No Camp Springs, MD 20746. �' !'i • ;. -t: * • ' .4 IIIUri994 XmWBISIM From left, Jose Oliveira, Antonio Lameiro and Antonio Sllva tioist net aboard the Southern Crusader. Warmer Weather Welcome On the Southern Crusader 1 Handling repairs to some of the nets are Antonio L^melro (left) and LIclnIo Esteves. The Southern Crusader's crew, all fishermen who sail from the port of New Bedford, Mass., had a good break on their last voyage, pictured on this page in photos t^en by the boat's cap­ tain, Amilcar l^teves. It was not a coffee break or a lunch break, but rather, a break in the weather. The Southern Crusader, like all of the other 80 SIU fishing vessels sailing out of New Bed­ ford, worked through an excep­ tionally harsh winter. Understandably, crewmembers there are happily welcoming the warmer weather of spring. "Definitely, it was a rough winter," said SIU Port Agent Henri Francois. "These guys work year-round, but they (often) had to tie up this year due to the weather. Then they listened to the weather reports every day, just to see if they even had a chance to fish." Francois described Esteves and the rest of the Crusader's crew—^Antonio Lameiro, Jose Oliveira, AntonioSilva, Licinio Esteves and Augusto Rosa—as "family men and wonderful, dedicat^ workers." Like the vast majority of the other fishermen who ply their trade in the northeastern United 21 Two crewmembers prepare to haul In cod and other flatfish caught in the New Bedford area. States, the crewmembers of the Southern Crusader are of Por­ tuguese descent. During offtime, particularly in the summer, they occasionally return to Por­ tugal for brief visits with fanulies and friends. The Southern Crusader is classified as a dragger, one of ^OUTHE!?!^ cm/m two types of fishing boats in the New Bedford area. (The other type is known as a scdlopCr.) Its crew uses large nets which are pulled along the bottom of the ocean to catch groundfish such as cod, yellow-tail flounder, had­ The Southern Crusader Is one of 80SlU-contracted fishing vessels dock, sole, lobster and various that operate in the northeast. other flatfish. The vessel is approximately 80 feet long, with about 500 horsepower. A typical voyage usually lasts nine to 12 days, and extends as far as 100 or more miles out to sea. As called for in their SIU contract, if the fishermen woik more than nine consecutive days, . they must tie iq)in poitforfour days. While in port, Esteves and the rest of the crew pitch in to handle routine maintenance such as repairing nets, winches and radars. "They don't want to miss any chance to sail," explained Fran- -|iS Ucinlo Esteves checks a yellowtall flounder. From left, Antonio Lameiro, LIclnIo Esteves and Jose Oliveira clean the latest catch. "1/ •V2T\ . k-' ' rr.': Crewmembers aboaid the Southern Crusader start the cleaning process by removing the tails from the monkfish. Augusto Rosa (left) and Ucinlo Esteves check out a cape shark. Preparing to send the fish below are Antonio Lameiro and Jose Oliveira. ''A' diiM; •• • >'• -Ijl .. I • /-KV;- • . v'..: ./ -• .1 • 1- -S. ; . �22 MAY1994 SEAFARERSLOG Lundebefg School Graduating Classes PS Upgraders Lifeboat—^With instructor Jake Karaczynskl (right) are March 8 upgrading graduates of the lifeboat class (from left, first row) Dawn Coutermash, Fade! Abdulla, Tony Brooks, William McGee, Morris Jeff, (second row) Demont Edwards, Robert Papale, Larry Anderson and Justo Lacayo. Trainee Lifeboat Class 522—Graduating from trainee lifeboat class 522 are (from left, kneeling) Gabriel Sawyer, Glen McCullough, Wilford Glenn Knight, Donna Scott, (second row) Matthew Case, Willie Pettway, Brad Neathery, Ercell Manuel Jr., Jakp Karaczynskl (instructor), (third row) Charles Pruitt, Spencer Kreger, Justin Cook, Jeffrey Brown and Duane Jessup. QMED—Upgrading members of the engine department completing TraineeLifeboatClass523—Graduatingfromtraineelifeboatclass523are(fromleft,kneeling) Ben Cusic (instructor), Everett Henry, Michael Cobb, David Wamke, Eugene Bames, William Pettaway, iha (second row) Dimitrios Vourlos, Joseph Latham, Kevin Ward, Thomas White, Jason McCants, Nathaniel James Ham, (third row) Anthony J^v?•TF Yates, Owen Richards, Tyler Harden, Perryman Jr., Shad Ball and Antonio Simon. Kevin Maskell, Calvin Lawson and Jeff Stuart. Not pictured are Gary Monison and Christopher Snow. Oil Spill Containment Class—Certificates of completion were received by the March 8 class of upgraders. They are (from left, kneeling) Adam Talucci, Roderick Hall, Fred Vaigneur, John Cincotta, Abrafram Daif, Antonio Gonzales, (second row) Casey Taylor (instructor), Robert Darley, William Soto Jr., Chris Cobb, Dartin Eastridge, Scott Hobbs, Maris Seperis, Timothy Vota, (third row) Robert Grove, Andr6 Frazier, Mark Weaver, Kenneth Frederick, Kenneth Boone, Alan Day, Timothy Duggan, Chris Penine and Joseph Gustafson. Some of the crewmembers from the USNS Bellatrix have dis­ covered a hobby that puts food on the table. During their free time. Chief Steward Robert Wilcox, AB Joe Sauzek and OS William May recently enjoyed a successful fishing venture. Top photo: It took both Sauzek (left) and Wilcox to land this massive fish. Bottom: May (left) and Wilxox, who sent these photos to the LOG, report that this catch "was absolutely delicious." - * «[: ass wM-. Upgraders Lifeboat—^The April 5 graduates of the upgraders lifeboat course are (from left, kne^ng) ifing) Ben Cusic ( (instructor), Roderick Hall, Thomas McCurdy, Andrew Green Jr., Maris Seperis, (second row) Richard Oliva, Michael Nelson, Edyson Chaniago, Kanoi Sialana, Robert Darley, (third row) Jesse James, Mark Weaver, Joseph Gustafson and Andr6 Frazier. J �MAY 1994 -MP—.:.. -? LUHDEBERG SCHOOL 1994 UPGRADING COURSE &!REOIRE SEAFME/IS LOG 23 DecerUBcalbmProgrurtts The following is the course, schedule for classes beginning between June and October 1994 at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship located at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. All programs are geared to improve job skills of Seafarers and topromote the American mantime industry, T^e course schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—^in times of conflict—the nation's security. Deck UpgmUng Courses Course Check-In Date Completion Date Able Seaman July 15 September 9 August 26 October 21 Course Check-In Date Completion Date Bosun Recertification Octobers November 7 Steward Recertification Julys August 8 Course Check-In Date Completion Date Assistant Cook, Cook and Baker Contact admissions office for storting dates Chief Cook, Chief Steward Contact admissions office for starting dates Course Check-In Date Completion Date All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. Bridge Management (Shiphandling) July 29 October 21 Radar Certification June 17 ,fune24 July 22 July29 August 19 August 26 September 16 September 23 October 14 October 21 August 12 November 4 Celestial Navigatilon July 1 September 9 limited License, Parti julyl June 20 September 26 October? ILlbaait^ license, Part 2 ^ Limited License, Part 3 AU students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. QMEID - Any Rating August 1 October 21 FlrenumAVatertonder and Oiler September 12 October 21 June 27 July 22 August 1 September 9 Refrigeration Maint & Operatiom August 12 October 21 Pumpromn Bilidiit.)& Operations Hydraulics June20 Octobers iulylS .Pctober,2i i;#; July 18 October 24 |luly29 November 4 SuMySpeelalfy Courses ' . Check-In Date Completion Date Oil Spill Prevention and (Containiment) .'"'-if'.'V'. , Lifeboatman . r June 17 Julyl August 26 October 21 September 2 October 28 June 17 July 15 August 12 August 26 September 9 October? Julyl July29 August 26 September 9 ^ptember23 October 21 June 24 Basic/Advanced Fire Fighting July 8 July 22 September 16 September 30 Sealift Operations & Maintenance July 11 Septembers Augusts September 30 (First) (Last) (Middle) Address (Street) (Slale) (City) Telephone _J_ (Zip Code) Date of Birth. _L (Area Code) , (Month/Day/Year) Lakes Member D Deep Sea Member lH August26 Crane Maintenance September 12 October 21 Wdding October24 November 18 1994ArkrltEilucatkm Schedule The following courses are available through the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School. Please contact the admissions office for enrollment information. Course Chodc-In Date Completion Date GED Preparation 12 weeks - open-ended admission Adult Basic Education (ABE) 6 weeks - open-ended admission English as a Second Language (ESL) 6 weeks - open-ended admission Developmental Studies June 27 July 11 August 22 SeptdnberS June 30 July IS August 26 September 9 General Educatkm Crrilege Cotases Sessionin September 12 November 4 Primary language spoken UPGRADING APPUCAIRNII Name July 15 November 28 Mirine Electrical Maintaumce Julys October 10 CIS':©-' Course October 14 Inland Waters Member• With this application, COPIES of your discharges must be submitted showing suffi­ cient time to qualffy yourself for the course(s) requested You also must submit a COPY of each of the following: the first page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, your clinic card arul the fivrU and back of your z-card as well as your Lundeberg School identification card listing the course(s) you have taken and com­ pleted The Admissions Office WILL NOT schedule you until all of the above are received BEGDf END COURSE DATE DATE yL-yd If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security # ' Seniority Book # ' Department U.S. Citizen: •Yes • No • ' Home Port LAST VESSEL: Ehdorsement(s) or License(s) now held Rating:. Date On: Date Off: Are you a graduate of the SHLSS trainee program? • Ves DNO SIGNATURE. If yes, class# Have you attended any SHLSS upgrading courses? •Ves DNO Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. If yes, coufse(s) taken Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? • VeS: DNO Firefighting: D Yes DNO CPR:DYes DNO .DATE RETURN COMPLETED APPLICATION TO: Lundeberg Upgrading Center, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674. 5/94 f. »• ' ' '• ^-' .H • !.- •f.- • u-yf.,. "r l':""r I • r'. �IE- E f., •-,. • :. ••• ?.fe'' .•••"• '••• j; -ir - SEAEUCEttS "'f- ; •, May 1994 Volume 56, Number 5 SEAFARERS Have you planned your summer vacation yet? The Lundeberg School can provide you and your family with all the ingredients for an exciting vacation. For details and rates, see page 16. .:*- Spring Thaw Brings New Season For SlU-Crewed NATCO Dredges f S perform routinere^ iiiliiwig /'tj-.' 'v.^rT-. hv winter layup in the shipyard. With wanner weather returning to the eastem half of the United States, SIU members aboard North American Trailing Company (NATCO) dredges are back at work on the Great Lakes, Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico. Because of ice and rough water conditions, most dredging operations occur between March and October, with some vessels retreat­ ing to the shipyard for repairs during the winter months. Norfolk, Va. Port Agent Mike Paladino met with Seafarers aboard the NATCO hopper dredge. Sugar Island, when it recently docked at the Virginia port to take on fuel. (All NATCO dredges are "hoppers" which are dredges that can bring in the material that has been removed to store until it can be removed or used to fill in another area.) Recently out of the shipyard from its winter layup, the Sugar Island was preparing to begin a dredging operation to clear the Chesapeake Bay shipping channel to make sure the draft was at least 51-feet deep. Another NATCO dredge, the SlU-crewed Dodge Island, was assisting in the operation. Getting much of their work from the Army Corps of Engineers, the dredges perform channel maintenance and widening opera­ tions. By removing rock, sand or mud from the bottom of the ocean, lake or inland waterway the vessels deepen shipping channels. "The dredges perform many various types of operations. They may be asked to come in with sand to fill in a beach area that has been eroded or clear the way into port for a vessel with a deep draft. The crewmembers are skilled for all the different jobs done by the dredges," Paladino told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG. The port agent noted that the crew aboard the Sugar Island has a very good relationship and relate well to one another. "Everyone works together to get the job done. If some­ thing breaks, they all stick together until it is repaired," he said. Paladino noted that the crews were all very happy with the new three-year contract be­ tween NATCO and the union. When the vessels begin a new dredging project, the area is marked,and surveyed. The depth is measured and surveyed by a com­ puter on board the dredge. Depending on the operation at hand, different markers are used to mark off the afea to be worked. "If they are dredging an area that is bordered by land, land markers can be used. If the dredge is operating in the middle of a body of water, a buoy is used. Sometimes lights are used to mark an area around a bridge. It all depends on what is being dredged," noted Paladino. W^en the dredge sails to a new area to perform another operation, it may be neces­ sary to change to a drill or pump depending upon what the dredging operation may be. "Removing rock calls for a drill while mud or sand need to be dredged using a pump," the port agent said. Gathering for a union meeting in the crew lounge are, from left, Oiler Bill Quick, ABs Ed Broadus and Omar Muhammad and Steward\Baker David Struckland. Help Locate This Missing ChiU Relaxing in the crew lounge at the end of his shift is AB Louis Green. SA Barbara Lindsay comes ashore while the Sugar Signing the patrolman's report is Second Mate /s/and takes on fuel in Norfolk, Va. Jim Stafford. The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children has asked the Seafarers International Union to assist them in locating Christy Dee Hughes Christy Dee Hughes. Missing from Baltimore, Md. since October 17, 1993, the 17-year-old is considered an endangered runaway. She is believed to be in the company of an adult male. At the time of her disap­ pearance, the blonde-haired, hazel-eyed girl was 5'4" tall and weighed 108 pounds. She has a 2-inch scar on her thigh. Anyone having information on the whereabouts of Christy Dee Hughes should contact the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children at (8(X)) 8435678 or the Missing Persons Unit of the Baltimore County Police Department at (410) 8875329. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 1990-1999 Description An account of the resource Volumes LII-LXI Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993; Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource May 1994 Description An account of the resource Headlines: AGENCIES, UNIONS EXAMINE SURGE SHIPPING DEMANDS FIVE TIMES MORE OIL SPILLED BY PIPELINES THAN THANKERS SENATE PANEL TACKLES DOT SHIP BILL PRESIDENT NIXON, ARCHITECT OF '70 SHIPPING ACT, DIES AT 81 U.S. CRUISE SHIP PLAN BEFORE CONGRESS SEAFARERS MOVE INTO NEW BROOKLYN HALL SCHOOL'S INLAND GROUP TACKLES NEW REGS, SAFETY BILLS NATCO SIU MEMBERS RATIFY 3-YEAR CONTRACT EXPRESS MARINE SEAFARERS ENDORSE PACT HAZMAT RECERTIFICATION AVAILABLE THROUGH PAUL HALL MARITIME CENTER MID-MAY VOTE SLATED FOR ANTI-SCAB BILL RANK-AND-FILE COMMITTEE OK'S SIU FINANCIAL RECORDS SEA-LAND PATRIOT: AROUND THE NORTH PACIFIC IN 49 DAYS CHIEF COOK LEONARD STRIVES TO BE THE BEST GOVERNMENT SERVICES DIVISION CHALLENGES OVER REDUCTION OF CREW SIZE BY MSCPAC BORUCKI REPORTS SEALIFT CARIBBEAN SAILS THROUGH ANNUAL INSPECTION HONING SKILLS FOR AMERICA'S SEALIFT NEEDS BELIEF IN STRONG U.S.-FLAG FLEET IS EVIDENT ABOARD OVERSEAS OHIO SIU FAMILY BOASTS WRESTLING CHAMPS S-L RALIEGH BAY CREW SHARES HOLIDAY MEAL WARMER WEATHER WELCOME ON THE SOUTHERN CRUSADER SPRING THAW BRINGS NEW SEASON FOR SIU-CREWED NATCO DREDGES Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 5/1/1995 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 56, No. 5 1994 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/56d87ffb90e0bae62d099622e8191945.PDF 7cb9654c31e1a25ddbc2651014888ebf PDF Text Text .•'yj.yC .y ^51.: ': fl ' 'Wy J'M Crewmembers aboard Bisso tugboats, like the two shown above, voted to sign on with the Seafarers Big Chiil ices Lakes Fitoiit, Causes Deiays The harshest winter in recent memory forced many Great Lakes vessels to stay in port longer than originally scheduled because of ice blocking the shipping lanes. The winter conditions affected such SIUcrewed vessels as the St. Clair and tugboat Arkansas. Story on page 6. - ' •' ' '.rCM'- y'm ;• vfe| 2 �2 APRIL 1994 SEAFMERSLOG President's Report Health Care Fight Begins .if' ••-v'ii, .... i), ^4 >f' "• ' "l" The fight is on. After months of verbal salvoes fired by those entrenched and enriched by the present medical pro­ gram, Congress has started to hold hearings on legislation to reform America's health care system. During the election of 1992, the AFLCIO spoke in behalf of working people all across America who were concerned about the continuing need to give up pay raises and other benefits in order to maintain ade­ quate health care coverage for themselves and their families. Candidate Bill Clinton listened and made health care reform a Michael Sacco priority. The president set up a study group to look into every aspect of the problem and come back with suggestions, to the White House on what should be done. The committee met with average citizens and medical professionals all across the country to gather evidence on what has become a crisis in America. Tfie president introduced these ideas on September 22 during a nationally televised address. Yet, despite the fact that almost 39 million Americans in the latest count are uninsured, despite the fact that the national inflation rate averages around three percent while the medical inflation rate grows at 11 percent annually, despite the fact that the United States spends far more of its gross national product on health care than any of the other major industrial­ ized nations (which provide universal coverage for their citizens), there are still those who claim we do not have a health care crisis. No health care crisis? Try telling that to the head of a household who has been laid off and now has no protection for his or her family. Try telling that to a single parent who is trying to make ends meet at a low-paying job that does not provide any health care benefits. Try telling that to someone who has dealt with the skyrocketing prices of medicine when his or her budget has been knocked out of whack to fill a ^ prescription for an illness. The naysayers claim we don't have a health care crisis. But, another 2.3 million Americans joined the ranks of the uninsured in 1992, and that figure continues to increase. And who pays for those without insurance? For one, those of us in the trade union movement who have health care coverage. While union workers enjoy coverage that others don't, skyrocketing prices have put a strain on the health in­ surance plans of those who have coverage. That's because every time an uninsured person gets treated in an emergency room, the cost is passed along through higher prices to those who do enjoy coverage. However, those same naysayers who claim there is no health care crisis are offering their own legislation to "reform" health care. Their idea of so-called reform is not to bring all Americans to the standard of coverage enjoyed by workers covered by a union contract, but to lower the coverage of those with benefits to a substandard level. Then they would tax anyone who seeks to obtain a higher level of coverage. The SIU will oppose any such move in Congress to lower the standard of health care in this country. That is not reform; that is regression. The Seafarers will stand with the AFL-CIO in its support of a health care reform initiative, like the president's, that in­ cludes true reform of the system. Among those principles that must be part of any bill fixing the nation's health care system are universal coverage for all Americans —^ coverage that can­ not be taken away because of illness, lack of a job or any other cause; preservation of quality care and containment of the spiraling costs. As the Congress debates both the president's health care reform proposal and all the other pieces of legislation dealing with the same subject, the AFT-CIO will be working to ensure that any system adopted benefits working people and their families. The SIU certainly will do everything it can to assist in those efforts. Volume 56. Number 4 April 1994 The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 0160-2047) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District; AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, Md. 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Second-class postage paid at MSC Ihince Georges, Md. 20790-9998 and at additional maiUng offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, Md. 20746. Managing Editor, Daniel Duncan; Associate Editors, Jor­ dan Biscardo and Corrina Christensen; Associate Editor/Production, Deborah A. Hirtes; Art, Bill Brower. SIU fishermen join with others from New England to protest the conditions of their industries during a sit-in at the New Bedford, Mass. federal building on March 11. Commene Dept Gtters Aid Package After New England Fbhermen Protest The remaining $12 million scalloping dredges. Implementa­ A month-long series of meet­ ings and protests led by SIU will come from the department's tion was set for March 1. A shortage of the new nets and fishermen from the port of New National Oceanic and Atmospheric rings, however, as well as com­ Bedford, Mass. culmihated in the Administration in loan guarantees plications in implementing the release late last month of $30 mil­ and direct grants for alternative plan forced the service to delay lion in economic aid by the U.S economic activities and a series of implementation of the program Fishery Assistance Centers, in­ Commerce Department. for one month. A second exten­ Commerce Secretary Ronalc cluding two mobile operations to sion until May 1 was granted for Brown announced the assistance help affected fishermen. the new nets and until June 1 for While welcoming the federal package while meeting in Boston rings. aid, both Kerry and Sen. Edward on March 21 with New England area fishermen and elected offi­ Kennedy (D-Mass.) called it only Limits Days at Sea a first step in the efforts to help the cials. Shortly after the fishermen The announcement of the aid New England fishing industry. came after a month in which New Brown noted the Clinton ad­ received their notification con­ Bedford Seafarers were joined by ministration would be seeking ad­ cerning the nets, another letter fellow fishermen from other ports ditional funds designed to help from the fisheries service was ar­ riving in their mailboxes. in Massachusetts and Maine in the industiy. The letters notified boat tying up their vessels in Boston Regs Decrease Yield Harbor for two weeks. The fisher­ owners how many days they The protests that brought the could sail during the upcoming men held meetings with state and federal elected officials to discuss problems of the New England year under two systems the ser­ the plight of their industry. fishing industry to Washington's vice was proposing. One, called Then, after returning to their attention began earlier this year the fleet system, was limited to home ports, the New Bedford when the federal government 190 days for the year. The other, fishermen conducted a peaceful began informing fishermen of called the individual boat system, sit-in on the steps of the town's new regulations that would was based on the average number federal building to call attention decrease the amount groundfish of days the boat sailed in the pre­ to the problems associated with and scallops they could catch. vious year and reduced by 10 per­ increasing federal regulations and (Groundfish is a general term for cent. decreasing stock in the Georges haddock, cod, various flounders The idea behind the program and other commercially impor­ was to reduce the amount of fish­ Bank fishery. The fishermen had been ur­ tant species of fish.) ing that occurs in the Georges ging the government to release For years, the National Marine Bank. However, as it has been economic aid funds authorized Fisheries Service (NMFS) has announced, the program actually last year in the $7.6 billion been working on a plan to reduce hurts vessels which have been California earthquake relief the number of fish caught in the practicing conservation—like measure. Senator John Kerry (D- Georges Bank, located in the those sailing under an SIU con­ Mass.) had amended the bill to North Atlantic off the coast of tract—which requires four days authorize the commerce secretaty New England. Overfishing of the ashore for every 10 days at sea, to make available up to $550 mil­ grounds, caused in part by and rewards the non-union boats lion for the fishing industry in overament efforts to build up the that simply come into port to off­ disaster aid. commercial fleet, had greatly load fish, change crews and then reduced the amount of fish that return to sea. Concerns Remain could be harvested In order to monitor the days at Despite the announcement of Despite the fact that planning sea, the NMFS had ordered the the aid, fishermen are concerned for the regulations had been fishing boats to carry Vessel that it may not be enough to deal taking place for years, the fisher­ Tracking Systems, known as with the problems in their in­ men started receiving letters at black boxes." The cost for such he beginning of 1994 from the devices runs up to $5,000 plus dustry. Henri Francois, SIU port agent WFS that they would have to monthly usage fees. The SIU has in New Bedford, noted the fisher­ purchase larger mesh nets for men are wondering how the groundfish and larger rings for Continued on page 14 money will be distributed. "There is a concern that very little of the $30 million may ac­ tually reach the fishermen it is intended to help," Francois said. "Much of that will depend on the details that have not been final­ ized." According to a statement is­ sued Iw the Commerce Depart­ ment, $18 million of the aid will be targeted at entire communities affected by . new regulations and declining fish stocks. It will focus on the longterm recovery of the impacted towns and villages through community reinvestment Seafarer Tony Santos demonstrates to the press that fish which are considered undersized by the U.S. government are allowable in and diversification. Canada. The fish in tum are imported for sale in the United States. '} �• .'..A- • APRIL 1994 SEAFARERSLOG •,•;.••- -r-' - . 3 E.N. Bisso Crews Vote SlU By 2-1 ^1: February 22 aboard the Bisso tug lot of propaganda and they came Gladys B., which was in port in on the boats the week before the longtime non-union Gulf tugboat New Orleans and was secured by election and tried to tell us to vote no. company voted overwhelmingly officials from the National Labor "But it didn't make any dif­ last month to be represented by Relations Board (NLRB). Addi­ ference to me. You see the results the Seafarers International tional secret ballot voting also of the vote—evidently, we Union. took place on March 3 in Miami wanted to join the union, and By a count of 45 to 27, the aboard the Capt. Bud Bisso, the we're happy because we have the boatmen working for New Or­ one Bisso vessel that sails off­ union. Guys know they're going leans-based E.N. Bisso Co. sig­ shore. to have good benefits and wages nalled that they wanted union The NLRB counted the ballots and job security over the long representation, despite an intense and announced the results on haul." anti-union campaign waged by March 8. Dean Corgey, vice president the company. Since the election, the SIU has of the SIU's Gulf Coast Region, Voting was conducted by been preparing for contract talks said, "I have a tremendous "A union means you have a future," says AB Robert Neff Sr., who works aboard Bisso tugs like the one above. "I think this is terrific." secret ballot and took place with the company. However, amount of respect for the boat­ Bisso filed objections about the men in the Bisso fleet. They were election with the NLRB. The subjected to the most intimidating agency currently is investigating and vicious anti-union campaign that I've ever seen. But they hung Bisso's objections. together, showed a lot of guts and E.N. Bisso, which openly has they prevailed. resisted union organizing of its "We reach out to those 27 who employees for many years, didn't support the union to come operates a fleet of 15 boats — 14 on board. The more people who of which work in ship docking are with the union effort, the operations from the Gulf up the stronger we'll be at the bargain­ Mississippi River as far north as ing table and the better their con­ Baton Rouge, La. tract is going to be." "I voted yes because I believe Meanwhile, an ex-Bisso cap­ a union is the only sensible way a tain who requested anonymity working man can go," said Deck­ until his charges against the com­ hand Robert Neff Sr. "A union pany are processed said he means you have a future. I think believed the company fired him this is terrific." because he refused to cooperate In reference to Bisso's efforts in Bisso's aggressive anti-union to get crewmembers to vote campaign. against the union, Neff, 57, TTie captain also expressed the added, "What the company has general view of many of his ship­ done to us has been very in­ mates that the company was timidating, and I'm not the type trying to intimidate the crew from who's easily intimidated. They're exercising their right to free E.N. Bisso's 15 tugboats. Including the ones pictured here, are used for docking operations. very sarcastic,'they've put out a choice. BSrug^u""" "" n.em!' ""ctwrmbTrs' Fired Capt Returns to Work After MTD Protests Dismissal Nelson Flew Historic Flag to Support U.S. Mariners . • ,'Vi;.-'A n The captain of the President Four days later. Nelson, a the American flag to foreign-flag F.D. Roosevelt, who had been Vietnam veteran and commander registry. "We emphasize this point be­ fired for flying an historic. in the Naval Reserve who has Revolutionary War-era worked for APL for 17 years, was cause it is against this backdrop American flag as a peaceful show relieved of his command of the that the action of Captain Nelson of support for the U.S. merchant Pres. Roosevelt. On March 8, ... is easily understood." In the letter to Lillie, Sacco marine, was reinstated after a Nelson was fired by company of­ unified protest by maritime labor ficials in a meeting at APL's of­ called for reinstatement of Nelson was launched under the auspices fices in Oakland, Calif. The letter as master of the Pres. Roosevelt; of the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades of dismissal given to the 48- for assurance that no attempts year-old Nelson cited "viola­ will be made to "in any way in­ Department (MTD). Captain Richard Nelson tion of APL Policies and hibit [the crew's] right to spe^ up on issues of concern to them and resumed command of the Pres. Procedures ..." A groundswell of protest im­ the American public"; and for Roosevelt on March 21, less than two weeks after his firing and mediately erupted over Nelson's disciplinary action against the of­ ficials from APL who were Crewmembers aboard the President Roosevelt display the historic I after resolving differences with firing. responsible for Nelson's firing. Revolutionary War-era flag which Captain Nelson raised on March 1 American President Lines, Ltd. MTD Presi­ He also pointed out the ap­ while the vessel was In port In Guam. Among those pictured are SIU (APL). dent Michael parently contradictory actions of members Joseph Tucker (chief cook, standing at far right) and Alvin Acting on behalf of the entire Sacco, who also APL receiving fedei^ subsidies Solomon (assistant cook, kneeling at right). crew—which includes members is president of the while proceeding with plans to of the SIU (steward department), SIU, called a reflag some of its vessels and scheduled to go to arbitration tive," the statement reads. "We in the SIUNA-affiliated Sailors' meeting while building new ships over­ before the settlement with APL will continue to work together to Union of the Pacific (deck) and Washington that seas. was reached. seek the survival of the U.S. mer­ Marine Firemen's Union (en­ included repreThe MTD's actions came on ? APL and the MM&P issued a chant marine." sentatives from Capt. Nelson gine), the Masters, Mates & Pilots the heels of a resolution passed by joint statement noting that In June 1993, APL and Sea(MM&P, deck officers) and Dis­ all of the unions its San Francisco Port Council Nelson's reinstatement with full involved in these incidents. (The Land Service Inc. filed applica­ trict 1-MEBA (engine officers) immediately after Nelson's dis­ Nelson on March 1 raised a flag MTD consists of 42 affiliated missal. In that resolution, the port back pay demonstrates the effec­ tions for approval from the U.S. aboard the Pres. Roosevelt bear­ unions which represent more than council proclaimed support of the tiveness of the collective bargain­ government to transfer 20 vessels ing process. ing the likeness of a snake on 13 8 million workers.) to foreign registry. The com­ captain and vowed to "take all Signed by Lillie and MM&P panies cited the lack of a new U.S. red and white stripes and the Afterward, in a communica­ appropriate action against thedis­ words "Don'tTread On Me." One tion sent to APL President and graceful punishment imposed by President Tim Brown, the state­ maritime program. ment describes the resolution of of the earliest flags in U.S. his­ CEO John Lillie on March 16, (APL) upon our brother " Later in the year, the House the situation as "amicable." tory, it was hoisted in place of the Sacco noted the "condition of un­ passed a maritime revitalization "The confidence established Receives Back Pay Stars and Stripes as a peaceful certainty and instability among bill. by our joint efforts in support of Nelson n^ived back pay and protest over /the^ demise of the thq company's crewmembers by The Clinton administration American merchant fleet, while virtue of [APL's] repeated threats lenefits. His union, the MM&P, maritime revitalization legisla­ presented its revitalization pro­ the ship was in port in Apra Har­ and intimations that it was prepar­ lad filed a grievance with the tion contributed to our ability to bor, Guam. ing to switch its operations from company, and the case was place this controversy in perspec­ gram to Congress last month. •'I• ' I •-•-rirrf'~irri if- -|-rf-|"rr-r JJL JI •" > �4 SBAFARERS LOG APHH. 1994 House Takes Up Waterways Safety Bill Merchant Marine Committee Chairman Studds Calls for Sweeping Changes ^ 'V ^ Rep. Gerry Studds (D-Mass,), said Studds following the intro­ where they operate, subject to towing vessel simulator. Under seamen (ABs). Third, all towing vessels, chairman of the House Merchant duction of the Tov ing Safety Act. Coast Guard inspection. The current law, an applicant for an regardless of size, would be uninspected towing vessel Marine and Fisheries Conlmittee, "Huck Finn could not drift down Coast Guard would inspect operated by a Coast Guard licensed operator's license only has to pass has introduced an inclusive bill the mighty Mississippi today towing vessels at least once every master. This would eliminate the a written test. An actual two years to ensure that they carry which addressees many aspects without getting run over. current "operators license" and re­ demonstration of ability to of towing safety, licensing, man­ "Those who use these waters appropriate safety and naviga­ quire towboats to be operated by operate a vessel or its equipment tional equipment and are in com for commercial purposes must ning, equipment and inspection licensed masters and, depending on is not , re­ pliance with applicable marine recognize that times have designed to improve the safety of their size, cany one, two or t&ee quired. safety laws. "It makes absolute! changed, they no longer have the the nation's inland waterways. licensed mates. This change would "To get The Towing Safety Act (H.R. rivers to themselves and they face no sense to vigorously inspect driver' bring the towing industry in line 4058) includes many safety a growing array of obstacles in barges but completely ignore the license you with the licensing system used by standards supported by the SIU the form of highway bridges, rail­ fact that these are inert objects have to de­ all other segments of the marine and the union's efforts over the road bridges and shoreline that only become ert when a towmonstrate transportation industry, Studds past few years to bolster the safety development. Safety must tri­ boat moves them. A barge, by proficiency by noted. conditions along America's umph over tradition. Licensing itself, is not going anywhere. If it "Many towboats are operated actually driv­ navigable waterways. and manning standards must be runs into a bridge, another vessel Rep. Studds ing a car. It in a safe and responsible manner H.R. 4058 includes the inland brought into the modem era," said or the bank, it is because a towonly makes and I expect that this legislation boat has pushed it, pulled it or set safety provisions endorsed by the chairman. sense to re­ would have a negligible impact Transportation Secretary According to a U.S. Coast it loose," said Studds. "These ves­ Federico Pena during a March 2 Guard report of December 6,1993, sels should be inspected and those quire an operator of a towing ves­ on the way they do business be­ hearing of the House Coast Guarc entitled "Review of Marine Safety entrusted with operating them sel to demonstrate proficiency at cause they are already doing the and Navigational-Subcommittee. Issues Related to Uninspected should be required to demonstrate driving a towboat," stated the right thing. Unfortunately, others are not so responsible, and it is chairman. The secretary called the effort to Towing Vessels," there were that they can do so safely." those operators that this bill tar­ Under current law, only improve waterways safety "one 12,971 marine casualties involving Limits on Exams gets," said Studds. of our highest priorities." uninspected towing vessels be­ towing vessels over 300 gross Finjilly, the bill requires that The bill also places a limit on tween 1980 and 1991^—1,080 acci­ tons that operate seaward of the Accidents Spotlight Need the number of times an applicant all marine casualties be reported dents per year or an average of shoreline are inspected. can take a license exam. (The to the Coast Guard as soon as The need for such legislation nearly three each and every day. Requires Navigational Aids pilot of the Mauvilla failed the practicable, but in no case later The Coast Guard's study found has been highlighted by two very H.R. 4058 would require that Coast Guard License exam seven than five days after the event. It serious accidents involving tugs that 59 percent of these accidents increases the penalty for not and barges in the past six months. were directly related to personnel all towing vessels carry radar, an times.) doing so from $1,000 to $25,000. On September 22, the tug Mauvil- errors and 16 percent were at­ electronic position-fixing device, The Studds bill would increase la, pushing six barges, struck a tributable to equipment failures. adequate communications equip­ the manning requirements of Bills Under Consideration bridge in Big Bayou Canot near "This is not a skety record to be ment, a sonic depth finder, a com­ uninspected towing vessels in No hearing date has been set Mobile, Ala., knocking the proud of," stated Studds. pass, adequate towing equipment severk ways. First, it requires "The legislation I am introduc­ and up-to-date navigational everyone involved with the for the Towing Safety Act, which structure's railroad track 41 in­ ches out of alignment. Amtrak's ing will impose requirements for charts. Licenses could also, for operation of a towing vessel to encompasses several safety Sunset Limited derailed because towing vessel inspection and the first time, cany a limitation on carry merchant mariner docu­ measures that are outlined in two of the misaligned track, and 47 tighten those for equipment, man­ the number of barges an operator ments (also known as z-cards). bills already under consideration ning and licensing, so that we could tow. people were killed. All employees on towing vcissels, by the House Coast Guard and On January 7, the barge Mor­ may reduce accidents and provide Studds noted that the tug )assenger vessels and offshore Navigation Subcommittee. ris J. Berman, adrift after its greater safety for commercial Mauvilla did not carry even the supply vessels will be required The Inland Documentation towline broke, struck a coral reef traffic on bur waterways and for most basic navigation equipment. to carry a z-card if they are in­ BilI (H.R. 1915) calls for all boat­ off the coast of San Juan, P.R. and the public traveling in and over The Coast Guard is authorized to volved in the safe operation of men sailing on inland waterways spilled 600,000 gallons of oil, these waterways." modify or add to this list of equip­ the vessel. vessels of more than five gross fouling pristine beaches and kill­ ment if the needs of a particular tons to hold Coast Guard-issued "While the requirements to Subject to inspection ing a variety of fish and wildlife. area dictate. obtain a document are minimal, it merchant mariner documents. "Traffic on our waterways, If enacted, the Towing Safety The Towing Safety Act would does provide the Coast Guard This bill was introduced by especially on crowded inland Act would make all towing ves­ require all towing vessels to be with a tool to remove incom­ Studds early last year. rivers, is increasing, and too sels that push or pull inspected operated by licensed masters and petent persons or those with sub­ The second piece of legisla­ many accidents are &e result," jarges, regardless of size or mates. These officers would have stance abuse problems from the tion before the subcommittee, the to demonstrate their proficiency industry by revoking their docu­ Towing Vessel Navigational in operating the newly required ment," noted Studds. Safety Act of 1993 (H.R. 3282), equipment. In addition, license Second, the proposed bill requires all inland waterway ves­ applicants will have to would require towing vessel sels to be equipped with marine demonstrate their shiphandling crews to consist of a minimum of charts, navigational publications, skills on a towing vessel or a 65 percent certified able bodied compass, radar and fathometer. Three months after a massive coming from the Oil Spill oil spill fouled the beaches of San Liability Trust Fund which was Rally Urges Senate Support for Striker Replacement Bill Juan, P.R., clean-up efforts still set up following the 1989 Exxon N are under way to restore the miles Vaidez oil spill in Alaska. The of affected shoreline. remaining $10 million comes Seafarers by land and sea were from the barge owner's in­ among the first to respond when surance. the non-union barge Morris J. The Coast Guard noted the Berman ran aground on a coral beach recovery effort probably reef during the pre-dawn hours of will continue into 1995. Each day January 7. The several holds on the jatrols scour up to 70 miles of barge ruptured, sending 662,000 jeachfront for tar balls and oil gallons of heavy number 6 bunker debris that have floated ashore oil in the surf toward the beaches from the reef as well as from the along San Juan's hotel row. bottom of the ocean and nearby More than 200 SIU members lagoons. Divers have been recovering working with Crowley Maritime laid containment booms around oil from these locations by using environmentally sensitive areas, vacuums. In some cases, they manned tugboats and skimmers have to physically place the oil in to capture oil before it reached the bags in order to remove it. So far, shore and helped in many other these efforts have reclaimed near­ ways. Other Seafarers aboard the ly 10,000 gallons of oil. oil spill response boat Caribbean Coast Guard officials noted Responder were called in by the their concern that warmer U.S. Coast Guard to augment the weather will loosen even more of the oil on the ocean's floor, caus­ Crowley crew. Because of the fast work by the ing it to drift ashore. No charges have been placed SIU members and others in­ volved, the Coast Guard es­ on any of the crew members timated that 336,000 gallons of aboard the Morris J. Berman or oil were captured and recovered the tugboat Emily S., which had Soafarer Durriel! Williams (in cap at right) joins other SIU members and fellow trade unionist at a before soiling the beaches. been towing the barge out of San Washington rally on March 16 calling on Congress to pass legislation to ban the practice of hiring So far, the cost of the clean-up Juan harbor. A Coast Guard in­ permanent replacements when workers stage a legitimate economic strike. The bill, known as 8.55, has neared the $70 million figure. vestigation into the accident is has passed the House of Representatives and is awaiting Senate consideration. President Clinton has Of that amount, $60 million is continuing. announced he would sign the bill when it clears Congress. Clean-up Efforts Continue Along San Juan Beaches •V flu ;• --•: �APRIL 1994 SEAFARERS LOG Mmbilstntkm's MarHnw Plan Becomes BUI 5 •/ • Secretary of Transportation Federico Pena presented to Con­ gress legislation designed not only to revitalize the U.S.-flag merchant fleet but also supply the funding mechanism to do so. , The Maritime Security and Trade Act of 1994 (H.R. 4003) calls for a 10-year, $1 billion Maritime Security Program which would begin during Fiscal Year 1995. Pena originally had outlined the program in February at the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department executive board meeting. He formally introduced the legislation at a press con­ ference on March 10. (See story below.) The new bill replaces H.R. 2151 as the legislation Congress By Fiscal Year 1998, the pay­ carried aboard tankers.' will consider in the debate for ments would be reduced to $2 To become part of the maritime revitalization. While million per ship per year until the Maritime Security Program, H.R. 2151 (which passed the program concludes at the end of companies would agree to make House of Representatives in a Fiscal Year 2004. The ad­ their ships available or provide 347-65 bipartisan show of sup­ ministration estimates 52 vessels, space on board the vessels for the port in November) outlined the each flying the U.S. flag and car­ Defense Department during na­ proposals for helping the U.S.- rying American crews, would be tional emergencies. The vessels flag merchant fleet, it contained involved in the program. have to remain active in foreign no funding mechanism. H.R. 4003 proposes to pay for commerce and can be no more In offering the bill to the the program through an increase than 15 years old. House Merchant Marine Sub­ in tonnagefees which would raise Legislation Schedule committee on March 17, Pena approximately $100 million a said, "This legislation is designed year. The duties for entering a The House subcommittee is to maintain a modem American U.S. port from a nearby Western expected to hold another hearing merchant fleet, ensure continuing Hemisphere foreign port would on H.R. 4003 before it goes to the American presence in the go from nine cents per registered full Merchant Marine and transportation of our intemationa tonnage to 24 cents. For those Fisheries Committee. Should it House Merchant Marine Subcom­ commerce and provide adequate sailing to America from outside be approved by the. committee, it mittee Chairman William Lipinski sealift for national emergencies." that region, the fee would go from would be debated and voted upon (D-lll.) states the bill demonstrates Subcommittee Chairman Wil­ 27 cents to 71 cents. The current by the full House of Repre­ the president's commitment to liam Lipinski (D-Ill.) added, "We practice of limiting collections to sentatives. maritime revitalization. Once the House approves the are encouraged by the Clinton the ship's first five visits to the Once passed by both bodies, administration's initiative to cre­ U.S. per year will be retained. bill, it will go before the Senate which will have the right to ate a reform proposal and to in­ The administration estimated Merchant Marine Subcommittee, clude the program in the that the tonnage fee increase then the Senate Commerce Com­ amend the original bill, and all president's budget. It is an impor­ would relate to an increase of 38 mittee, Science and Transporta­ amendments are agreed to, it tant step and a courageous move, cents per passenger for a cruise tion Committee before being would then go to the president for his signature. given the current fiscal climate, ticket and a penny per barrel of oil debated by the full Senate. and it deserves our gratitude and support." Gradual Implementation If passed by Congress and signed into law, funding for the program would begin October 1 No agreement was reached shipbuilding assistance program Korea and Taiwan also limit their and would be implemented on a among the shipbuilding nations and has been pushing the talks for domestic coastal trade to ships gradual basis. Those companies of the world in the latest round of the last five years, other OECD that fly their flags. In a resolution passed by the Transportation Secretary with ships included in the pro­ talks to eliminate that industry's nations claim America should gram during the first three years AFL-CIO Maritime Trades surrender the Jones Act before Federico Pena explains the Clin­ unfair government subsidies. ton maritime revitalization pro­ would receive $2.5 million per Department (MTD) at its annual The breakup means the United they will consider eliminating gram to the House Merchant vessel per year that they are part States will remain the only major their payments. The U.S. executive board meeting in Marine Subcommittee. of the program. shipbuilding nation that does not negotiators stood firm and February to provide an even keel provide assistance to its domestic refused to allow the nation's for shipbuilding around the cabotage law to be placed on the world, the body noted nations in­ industry. volved in the OECD talks have The Organization for table for discussion. (The Jones Act is the name not been trying to, reach a con­ Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) sponsored given to a 1920 law that limits the clusion, but "have used these the week-long talks in March at carriage of trade between U-S. negotiations to maintain their un­ Representatives from embraces the administration's its headquarters in Paris. Among ports to U.S.-crewed, U.S.- fair advantage." maritime labor, the chairmen of maritime security program as an the nations taking part were the owned and U.S.-built vessels.) (The MTD is made up of 28 the House and Senate merchant important step toward the United States, Japan, South However, many of the nations port councils and 42 affiliated marine committees and the head revitalization of the American Korea, members of the European who object to the Jones Act fail to unions representing eight million of the Maritime Administration merchant marine Union and the Nordic countries. include their own cabotage laws in workers.) "President Clinton's program (MarAd) expressed their support the negotiations about subsidies. Talking Since 1989 Loan Programs Vary for the Clinton administration's is a breakthrough. It represents A report released by the U.S. The OECD negotiations, Besides the cabotage laws, maritime revitalization legisla­ the first time in more than two which are held under the auspices Maritime Administration in Oc­ many of these same nations pro­ tion, which was introduced by decades that an administration is tober 1993 pointed out that Of the United Nations, began in vide a wide array of funding sour­ Transportation Secretary willing to follow through with a among the 57 nations surveyed, a 1989 as a means for governments ces to subsidizes their shipbuilding total of 44 have cabotage laws. Federico Pena at a March 10 press real program to stop the decline of to find a way to end shipbuilding activities. According to the report, the U.S.-flag fleet and to begin The nations include many on the conference in Washington. subsidies and place construction government runs a Japan's Pena noted that even the intro­ the process of developing federal European and Asian continents. for new vessels as well as repair development bank and credit cor­ For instance, the report stated duction of the Maritime Security maritime programs that will of older ships on a level playing poration which, with the nation's Germany reserves its coastal and Trade Act of 1994 (H.R. reinvigorate the domestic mer­ field. trade only to those vessels within Ministry of Transportation, assists 4003) would not have been pos­ chant marine." The United States eliminated Following Kirkland to the its national-flag fleet. Others in vessel construction and research. sible without the efforts of AFLfunding for its construction dif­ Meanwhile, Germany has Europe with cabotage laws in­ CIO President Lane Kirkland, podium was SIU President Sacco. ferential subsidy program in He thanked Pena for his efforts in agreed to the European Union direc­ clude Belgium, Finland, France, SIU President Michael Sacco, 1981. The program provided Italy, Spain and Sweden. offering the bill as well as the tive to limit shipyard assistance to U.S. Rep. Gerry Studds (Dfunds to help defray the costs of members of Congress present for nine percent for direct and indirect On the other side of the world, Mass), Sen. John Breaux (D-La.) the higher safety and work stand­ Japan excludes any foreign-flag aid. Yet, that nation received per­ their support in helping the U.S.and MarAd's Albert Herberger. ards required on American-built vessels from plying its domestic mission to grant up to a 36 percent He added that his office is count­ flag merchant fleet. House Merchant Marine and vessels. Since that Reagan ad­ trade. Crews must be all Japanese subsidy through 1993 for construc­ ing on them "to guide this legisla­ Fisheries Chairman Studds noted ministration move, more than and the ships involved in the trade tion contract^ to yards in the tion to the president's desk." 180,000 shipyard and related in­ The secretary called H.R. he could not imagine "the last dustry jobs have been lost in the must be Japanese owned. South former East Germany. 4003 "a comprehensive package remaining superpower on this country. Earth without ships flying its flag, of maritime revitalization that either to carry its trade in times of OECD Chairman Staffan will accomplish three goals: It Sohlman of Sweden had stated peace or its troops and personnel will strengthen U.S. presence in in joing into the negotiations that if of national emergency international commerce, it will andtimes no agreement was reached by the the capacity to build maintain a modem U.S. merchant thosewithout end of the week, no further talks vessels. fleet, [and] it will provide sealift would be held. However, news "That is quite simply and quite The Seafarers hiring hall in Brooklyn will be moving over the capability for national emergen­ literally reports after the meeting had unthinkable," he added. weekend of April 16-17 to its new location at 635 Fourth Avenue. cies. The chairman of the Senate ended noted Sohlman was con­ As written, the bill will pro­ Merchant Marine Subcommittee sidering calling yet another The new hall, which is one block from the present location vide $1 billion over a 10-year said he would try to find addition­ negotiating found in April or and on the same side of the street, used to house the American period for up to 52 U.S.-flag, al dollars for the program through Vlay. Maritime Officers (then called District 2-MEBA) welfare of­ American-crewed merchant ves­ the Pentagon budget. "Those reports stated some fices. It has a blue-and-white facade and is three stories tall. sels involved in foreign trade. It is "It is appropriate and proper, I jrogress had been made concemSIU members will be able to conduct aU routine businessscheduled to begin during Fiscal think, for the Department of ng the way Japan funds its shipshipping and registratidn as well as filing for vacations and Year 1995. Defense also to contribute to the )uilding programs. But another acquiring medical fom#—at 635 Fourth Avenue beginning 'Breakthrough' Initiative funding of that program," stated obstacle, that of dumping newly Monday, April 18. Although all union operations will be shifted In addressing the press con­ Sen. Breaux. "I think that effort l)uilt ships onto the world market to the new site, the phone number for the SIU in New York will ference, Kirkland (who sailed as will allow us to make this pro­ at prices lower than cost, still remain the same at (718) 499-6600. a mate during World War II), gram even bigger, better iand remained. Even though the U.S. ended its stated, "Labor as a whole stronger." Shipbuilding Talks Come Undone Europe, Asia Refuse to Halt Industry Subsidies •'vi®.';- Congress, Labor Voice Support For Revitalization Program Brookiyn Hiring Hail Move This MonUi 1 �• V •• -•. / 6 ••v-^v ^ _ v. \ \ ^.•7 •,/•. i^ i^;ilSil^Silfk My i ^rjisEWisrweFe® • ?"• p. :"' APRIL 1094 SEAFARERS LOG ^•''- # ^1? • •••^v^--;• Kl?!,' .. ;,® Photo by Jerry Bielicki The Mackinaw, the U.S. Coast Guard's largest Icebreaker on the Great Lakes, received funding for another year. K-PSh Cmgress Funds hx Cutter For t^xrathms Uriwi^A Year The U.S. Coast Guard ice cutter Mackinaw, the largest icebreaker stationed on the Great Lakes, will continue to keep vessels moving into 1995. Seafarers on the Great Lakes are familiar with the Mackinaw's efforts to clear paths through ice that forms both early and late in the sailing season, so that vessels can deliver their cargoes safely. The Mackinaw, set for decommissioning this May, has been allocated funding by U.S. Representative Bob Carr (D-Mich.), chairman of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation which oversees funding for the U.S. Coast Guard. Carr proposed to fund the Mackinaw for another year. During that time, Carr, Rep. Bart Stupak (D-Mich.) and the Coast Guard will work together to figure out a viable, long-term alternative for the ice cutter. "We have just been through one of the coldest winters in recent memory. Lake Superior froze over for the first time since 1978. Only the Mackinaw is powerful enough to clear this year's ice," stated Carr when he announced the ice cutter would remain on the Lakes for another season. The opening of the 1994 shipping season on the Great Lakes found formations of sheet ice in some harbors of more than 40 inches thick, and "windrows" (slabs of broken ice piled atop one another by the wind) out in the Lakes will be between six to eight feet thick. "The Mackinaw is the only icebreaker on the Lakes that can open the shipping channels after a winter such as this," noted an official for the Lake Carriers' Association, which monitors the action of U.S.-flag shipping on the Lakes. Seafarers OK Contract For Philly-Gamden Ferry "%i-. 'I' The Riverbus crosses the Delaware River every day of the year to transport passengers to Camden, N.J. • Seafarers who crew the ferry which runs between Philadelphia and Camden, N.J. across the Delaware River have over­ whelmingly ratified a new 3-year contract which includes im­ proved medical benefits. The new pact for crewmembers aboard the Riverbus, nick­ named the "Delawhale," covers wages, medical benefits (includ­ ing new coverage for dependents) and work rules. The agreement went into effect April 1. Representatives for the SIU and Riverbus Inc. met at the Philadelphia union hall on March 11 and 12. Delegates to the talks included Captains Robert Papale and Mickey McGovern and Deckhands Lee Poczylowski and Tony Lopez. "I think that it is a fair contract that works for both the union and the company. We got what we wanted," Captain Mickey Mc­ Severe Ice Buiidiip Stalls Start of '94 Lakes Season The most brutal winter in 16 years has produced formidable ice fields diroughout the Great Lakes and resulted in a delay in 11tout plans for many Seafarers who sail on the region's vessels. In some areas around the Great Lakes, more than 40 inches of ice have been encountered, and windrows," slabs of broken ice piled on top of one another by the wind and melted together by oc­ casional sunshine, are up to eight feet thick. SlU-crewed cement carriers, traditionally the first vessels of the season to sail, already have by Jerry Bietlcki lost between 12 and 15 days of American Steamship's St. Clair has not establishedPhoto a fixed sailing sailing tirrie due to conditions on date because of problems with Icy conditions on the Lakes. the Lakes. Several have begun service but have encountered sail across Lake Superior, problems due to the severe ice. straight path through Whitefish Whitefish Bay and through the Bay in order for the vessels to The Alpena and J.A.W. Soo Locks to get to Detroit. Iglehart had smooth sailing from pass safely through the locks, Nekvasil told the Seafarers LOG Cargo Demand High their winter ports of Cleveland Despite the severe icing condi­ and Detroit, respectively, until in late March. "Right now most vessels are tions, there is a demand for vital entering Thunder Bay near Al­ not coming south on Lake Supe­ raw materials. A recent survey by pena, Mich, to pick up their car­ rior because it just is not possible the LCA indicates that steel­ goes when they became stuck in for them to make it through. makers and power companies more than 36 inches of ice. It took When they do start to make ef­ needed approximately 500,000 the cement carriers 43 hours to forts, that is when the trouble will net tons of iron ore and coal from travel eight miles into port. begin." The Paul H. Townsendhadnoi Lake Superior ports prior to April He added that, at the time, it 1. The American steel industry encountered problems on lower Lake Michigan on its route to was not clear if even the Mack­ has been operating at nearly 88 Chicago, Milwaukee and St. inaw, the largest and most power­ percent of capacity during the Joseph, Mich, to begin the ful ice- breaker on the Great winter, so low inventories and resupply of the constmction in- Lakes, would be able to cut a clear strong order books require that dustiy. The last SlU-crewed In­ path for the ships coming south resupply begin as soon as pos­ land Lakes Management cement through Lake Superior. Nekvasil noted that other than sible. carrier, the S.T. Crapo, was ex­ "Most of the Great Lakes ves­ pected to begin sailing early this Lake Superior, the most severe sels will not be able to immedi­ icing conditions were being month. ately meet the cargo demand. The The SlU-crewed Medusa reported in harbors and inlets. cement carriers, typically the first Seafarers were able to crew ChallengerwWl not sail from Mil­ out, already have lost a significant waukee until the first few weeks American Steamship Company's amount of time. This is that much of this month—-which is highly Buffalo on its original fitout date more cargo that we will have to unusual for the Cement Transit of March 21. The vessel loads move during the regular season," Company vessel. "We are usually iron ore in Lorain, Ohio and off­ stated Nekvasil. one of the first vessels out on the loads in Cleveland. Other He added that this type of Lakes. The ice is vety bad around American Steamship Company cargo demand would have put the Straits of Mackinaw and the vessels had preliminary sailing many of the U.S.-flag lakers, in­ Soo Locks. Our plant is in Char­ dates set but were not able to con­ cluding many of the 1,000 footlevoix, Mich, where there are firm them because of the condi­ long carriers, back in service reports of heavy icing, so we are tions. "We are using caution in fit­ before the beginning of this just waiting it out and hoping that the ice breaks up more around the ting out and will not sail in areas month. "We will have to stay on ports," said a company spokesman. where we have received reports top of everything to deliver the According to Glen Nekvasil of of severe ice conditions," stated a 108 to 110 million tons of cargo the Lake Carriers' Association company spokesperson. Accord­ to break even with last year." The Great Lakes Basin is the (LCA), an organization of U.S.- ing to the company, the areas to flag ship companies on the Lakes, avoid are the Soo Locks and heart of the American steel in­ the ice on Lake Superior, was so Whitefish Bay area, Escanaba, dustry, hosting more than 70 per­ bad that the Soo Locks in Sault Mich, and Bums Harbor, Mich. cent of the nation's steelmaWng Ste. Marie, Mich, opened on The William J. McCarthy Jr., capacity. The production of one March 25 but vessels could not also an SlU-crewed American ton of steel requires about 1.35 begin to transit through until the Steamship vessel, was scheduled tons of iron ore, plus some quan­ following weeks as the ice broke to deliver 60,000 tons of coal to tities of fluxstone and coal. As a up and made the transfer safer. Detroit Edison before April 1 but result, iron ore, coal and stone are "The Coast Guard cutter had not begun to sail as of press the three largest commodities Mackinaw will have to cut a time. The 1,000-foot carrier must moved on the Great Lakes. Govern told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG. Voting by the SIU members took place in the unipn hall fol­ lowing the negotiation sessions. "Overall I am satisfied. It is a great company to work for and we have union support in everything we need. I love my job and think that it is a great operation," stated Lopez. The union began representing the feny crew in March 1992, shortly after the vessel went into service. The lOO-foot feny provides daily passenger ferry service be­ tween Penn's Landing, niiladelphia's waterfront park and Cooper's Feny in Camden. The feny service is scheduled to run every day of the year from 7 a.m. to 6:45 p.m. weekdays, 9 a.m. to 8:45 p.m. Saturdays and 9 a.m. to 5:45 p.m. Sundays. Hours are expanded by Jeny Bielicki Seafarers chip ice from the decks of this Great Lakes ore carrier which remains frozen in port during the summo- months. •I }•• ^ y- •. �• ,i ' »riS=ES.'i:,. 1 -V - .:%J- APRIL 1994 ' SEAFARERS LOG 7 Liberty Ships Will Commemorate Invasion ^Last Convoy^ to Rendezvous in Normandy The World War II veteran Liberty ships Jeremiah O 'Brien and John W. Brown and the Victory ship Lane Vic­ tory — fully crewed — are scheduled to play a major role in the commemorative activities for the 50th anniversary of DDay (June 6). The vessels will rendezvous early next month in the port of New York, then will proceed in "The Last Convoy" to a British port and eventually across the English Channel to Normandy in time for the commemoration of the Allies' crossing to rescue Europe from the Nazis 50 years ago. More than 150 retired merchant mariners and Navy gunners were selected from several hundred applicants to voluntarily crew the ships for this his­ toric voyage, which has widespread sup­ port from the U.S. government and from the American maritime community, in-^ eluding the SIU. Volunteers have res­ tored the vessels to fully functional status and are preparing them for U.S. Coast Guard and American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) inspections scheduled for this month. "The Coast Guard and the ABS have been working closely with us to help us meet the requirements," said Rick Bauman, a Chesapeake Bay pilot who will sail as third mate aboard the Brown. "Final inspection shouldn't be a prob­ lem. The riveted hull is the one big-tick­ et item — how many rivets we have to replace." Each vessel will have three separate crews, with an average age of about 70: one for the voyage overseas, one to main­ tain the ships while they are docked for commemorative activities, and one for the return trip. A physician will be present on each ship at all times. The ceremonies at Normandy will fea­ ture dignitaries from all the European Union and the U.S., including President Clinton. Some 50,000 American veterans also are expected to be on hand for the aerial displays, concerts and many other related activities. Seafarers at D-Day Thousands of SIU members played important roles in the invasion of Nor­ mandy, which opened the way for Western Europe to escape Nazi domina­ tion. They crewed merchant ships which carried troops and materiel to D-Day, and in the 109 days afterward, they helped land 2.5 million troops, 17 mil­ lion tons of ammunition and supplies and a half-million trucks and tanks. During the war. Seafarers crewed many of the more than 2,700 Liberty ships which were constructed during the early to mid-1940s. The vessels, each weighing approximately 7,200 tons and 441 feet in length, were vital to the war effort. They were relatively inexpensive to build (about $2 million apiece), and their uncomplicated design allowed for quick construction. A typical Liberty ship crew was com­ posed of 45 merchant mariners and.25 Navy Armed Guards. One ship could lift 10,000 tons of cargo; together, from 1942 to 1945, the vessels carried more than 100,000 million tons of cargo. Restored to its original wartime appearance, the Jeremiah O'Brien will join the John W. Brown and the Lane Victory to form the "Last Convoy" to Normandy. John W. Brown The Brown was one of the first Liber­ ty ships built, and it originally launched from Baltimore in September 1942. Capable of making 11 knots, the ship participated in the invasions of Norman­ dy and Salerno, as well as many other dangerous missions. After the war, it served as a nautical training device for the New York City school systemi. In 1986, the ship was transferred by the Maritime Administra­ tion (MarAd) to Project Liberty Ship, a non-profit organization based in Bal­ timore. It became home to the Museum of the Naval Armed Guard and numerous other displays, and more than 160,000 man-hours of volunteer labor were donated to refurbish the vessel. The Brown also was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. When the vessel heads for Norman­ dy, it will carry a cargo of teddy bears to be delivered to orphanages and to disad­ vantaged children in the United Kingdom, France and Russia. The fuzzy cargo "will warm the hearts of thousands of children over­ seas," said Brown Captain Brian Hope, who added that donations are welcome. "And it will demonstrate that the American merchant fleet can still be a force for world peace." made seven voyages during the war, operating in both the Atlantic and Pacific theaters. The ship was mothballed for more than 30 years after the war, but eventual­ ly was saved as a memorial. It was recon­ ditioned in '79 and declared a national historic landmark in 1980. Operated under the authority of MarAd and as­ sociated with the San Francisco Maritime National Historic Park, the O'­ Brien also required hundreds of thousands of man-hours for reconditioning. Lane Victory The Lane Victory operated not only during World War II, but also in Korea and Vietnam. Built in 1945 in San Pedro, Calif., the vessel was operated as a commercial cargo ship by American President Lines for many years, then by Pacific Coast Transport Co. In 1988, Congress donated the Lane Victory to the United States Merchant Marine Veterans of World War II. During the ensuing years, volunteers res­ tored the ship to steaming condition. Financing for The Last Convoy primarily came from federal support and private donations. The Merchant Marine Endowment Act was passed by Congress late last year; the bill called for the Brown, O'Brien and Lane Victory to receive proceeds from the sale (for scrap) of government-owned ships. That money was used for refurbishing, and donations are being put toward deferring operating costs. However, each ship still is short of operating funds. "We're about 85 per­ cent of the way to being completely funded, but we still need help," Bauman said of the Brown. The other vessels reportedly are in similar financial shape. If a person or organization wishes to make a contribution, they may contact The Last Convoy—Normandy '94 at (212) 363-4044. Teddy bears may be sent to the Brown at Project Liberty Ship, P.O. Box 25846, Highlandtown Station, Baltimore, MD 21224-0846. The O'Brien will depart from San Francisco on April 14 and later will join the other two ships in New York, some­ time in early May. Jeremiah O'Brien Built in the New England Shipbuild­ ing Corporation yards in South Portland, Maine, the O'Brien launched in 1943. It *Red' Recalls D-Day Scene ••'Ti •" '•-' • Retired SIU Vice President Angus "Red" Campbell was one of many Seafarers who took part in the historic invasion of Normandy on June 6, 1944. "It was better than any John Wayne movie," said Campbell. "I was on the Thomas Wolfe, a Liberty ship, and we left New York in April. We discharged cargo in Wales. Then we went to Scot­ land to take on some preparatory gear for the invasion, along with three British aircraft spotters. Eventually we loaded in Southampton, England, about a week before the invasion. Then we followed the mob." He described the scene at Norman­ dy as "remarkable. There were hundreds of airplanes, battleships, cruisers,... A week later, you were still getting shell fire from the 88 mil­ limeters, from the pillboxes on the beach, which were about 12 feet thick. 'There was no problem with the air, but the water was filled with acoustic mines, which are drawn by sound into the propeller. There were lots of bodies in the water: soldiers and sailors "We discharged the cargo at the beachhead for 90 cents an hour. ; • One of the first Liberty ships built, the John W. Brown now houses the Museum of the Maval Armed Guard and other displays in Baltimore, Md. Retired SIU Vice President Angus "Red" Campbell remembers the Normandy in­ vasion as "remarkable." Seamen also were required to assist the gun crews. So in addition to your fire and boat station, everybody on board had a gun assignment. There were 24hour-a-day lookout assignments, in­ cluding the crow's nest." Campbell added that there was a humorous side to the voyage. "Our engineroom crewmembers basically all came from Georgia and Florida. The people in the deck and steward depart­ ments were from New York, so the Civil War also raged for the full 12 months of our voyage." ^ he Lane Victory operated not only during World War II but also in Korea and Vietnam. She was restored to steaming condition by volunteers and will fly the Stars and Stripes at the commemorative activities taking place in Normandy on June 6. ; •; ft/::.;'^ •••' /ft ' W^'v. - / if 1 •M; �f ' . •p I -?'4% 8 SEAFMB8SL0G APRIL 1994 Newly issued Benzene Cards Clarify Renewal Dates Seafarers who sail aboard physical shape to wear protective tankers, barges or other vesse masks. where they are required to ho! While the benzene, clearance documents indicating clearance documents are not needed at the to work with and around the time of registration, they are re chemical benzene and produo quired at the time of claiming a containing benzene will be issued job on a tanker or related vessel. newly designed cards beginnin Seafarers can be tested at al this month. Seafarers Welfare Plan clinics The new benzene clearance Only Seafarers who wish to claim card indicates the exact expira­ jobs on tankers must take these tion date of both the benzene two tests; they are, however Complete Blood Count (CBC available to all members. test, which is good for one year, "Although members can get and the breathing test known as the testing done at any time, we the Pulmonary Function Tes would like to have the testing (PFT), which remains in effect for done at the time of his or her three years. aimual physical," noted Miller. According to Dr. Kenneth When in the union hall, mem­ Miller, medical director for the bers who plan to ship on tankers Seafarers Welfare Plan, the should schedule appointments to former benzene clearance cards take the benzene-related tests at created confusion about the date the nearest clinic. for Seafarers to be re-tested. "The Found In Petroleum old benzene cards stated in fine Benzene is found in many print that the member had been petroleum-based substances— tested in the last 12 months and crude oil, gasoline, jet fuel, the date the test was administered kerosene, petrochemicals—ant It did not, however, have an exaci date for renewal," Miller ex­ the chemical is used to manufac­ ture many products. Tankers and plained. "The blue clinic card had the tank barges often carry benzene PFT expiration date and that the or substances containing ben­ member was benzene-cleared but zene. Repeated exposure to benzene still did not indicate a date that the can pose health risks. But by clearance expired. It became monitoring a Seafarer's blood common mistake for Seafarers to count to ensure that exposure has assume that because the PFT had not caused any health problems, to be renewed every three years, and by checking his or her so did the benzene cards," he said. respiratory health in order to determine if he or she can wear a The new blue Seafarers clinic card (left) indicates the card's expiration date OFrtlTS"front. The reverse protective mask, these risks can shows that the member is cleared for working with and around the chemical benzene, but It does not pave a benzene expiration date. The yellow benzene clearance card will remain the same on the front, >e minimized. but an expiration date for benzene clearance and for the PFT test has been added to the back. The CBC test studies the make-up of an individual's blood. The blood test is required because rom the immediate and long- also are required to identify all Seafarers work on tankers meet penzene can affect and impair the ;erm health problems associated benzene areas through posted these Coast Guard regulations. The federal agency also has work of red blood cells which with benzene, which can be ab­ signs. sorbed into the human Additionally, the Coast Guard exposure limits that are cany oxygen; white blood cells bloodstream through respiration rules require mariners working monitored closely. The limit is set which fight infections; and and skin contact. with and around the substance to at one part of benzene per million platelets which help the blood to As part of these rules, tanker be tested to ensure that they can parts of air (1 ppm) averaged over clot. and tank vessel operators are reuse the protective masks and that an eight-hour period. The short In the PFT test, the piember blows through a tube into a uired to carry on board these they are not at risk for any of the term exposure limit, which can­ machine that registers breathing vessels protective equipment, in­ illnesses that repeated exposure not be repeated more than four capacity. This test determines the cluding breathing masks, to benzene can cause. The tests times a day, is 5 ppm averaged type of respirator a member has to which—when worn—minimize conducted by the SIU clinics and during a 15-minute period. An wear when handling or working the exposure to the chemical. The the shipping rule which requires hour wait must be taken between tanker and tank vessel operators that only benzene-cleared such exposures. Seafarers learn the proper way to around benzene. The federal regulations note use anti-benzene exposure equipment at the Lundeberg that minimizing contact with ben­ zene is important because shortSchool in Piney Point, Md. In order to clear up this erm exposure to the chemical has misunderstanding, the medical been found to cause light-headeddepartment has removed the PFT ness and irritation to the eyes, nose and respiratory tract. Longexpiration date from the blue term exposure to the chemical can A measure which would require that all U.S. The General Accounting Office (GAG) recently clinic cards and added it to the result in various blood disorders employers provide medical benefits to their testified before the House that there is "no evidence back of the yellow benzene card ranging from anemia (a low red employees (known as employer mandate) cleared a that the employer mandate resulted in large disrup­ along with an exact benzene ex­ cell count) to leukemia (a fatal House subcommittee last month in one of the first tions in Hawaii's small business sector," and that piration date. Although the clinic cancer of the blood cells). hurdles facing the Clinton administration's most small businesses in Hawaii considered their card will still state that a member proposed health care reform. health care costs to be manageable. That defies the Cards Provide Proof has benzene clearance, only the In a 6-5 vote on March 15, the House Ways and warnings from groups claiming to represent The Coast Guard is respon­ yellow benzene card will have an Means Health Subcommittee rejected an attempt to American small businesses which oppose the sible for inspecting tankers and expiration date. soften the employer mandate. The vote was taken employer mandate. The GAG's finding that "more tank barges to see that only ben­ Implemented In 1992 on an alternative reform plan introduced by Rep. than three-fourths of the small businesses surveyed zene-cleared personnel are work­ In 1992, the U.S. Coast Guard ing in benzene-restricted areas. Pete Stark (D-Calif.). reported that the mandate has had little or no effect The employer mandate strongly is supported by on employment levels, salaries or other benefits" implemented a hazardous The federal agency is authorized materials regulation that declared to issue fines if it discovers un­ the AFL-CIG and is a main provision in the reform also contradicts claims against the employer man­ seamen will not be dispatched to authorized individuals working plan proposed by President Clinton. Both the date. president's plan and the one introduced by Stark Compared with the rest of the states, Hawaii has tankers, barges or other affected with or around the chemical. meet the AI^-CIO's requirements that health care lower health insurance premiums, and those vessels unless they have been The benzene clearance cards benzene cleared jjer the regula­ issued by SIU clinics include in­ reform include comprehensive coverage for every premiums are increasing at a slower rate than those tion. formation indicating the member U.S. citizen, no taxation of benefits, quality as­ on the mainland. In addition, premiums for small The Coast Guard regulations is up-to-date on the benzene re- surance and a fairly financed employer mandate. businesses in Hawaii generally are not notably dif­ The full Ways and Means Committee is ferent from those for large businesses. require operators of such vessels c uirements and is able to satisfy scheduled to take up the issue following Congress' to provide protective equipment Coast Guard investigators. "It is Choice In Clinton Plan Easter recess, which began March 24 and lasts to any mariner handling benzene "or this reason that we would like Another key issue in the debate over health care or benzene-containing materials. 1 of our members—in every through April 11. reform is preserving a patient's ability to choose his Proof In Hawaii When Seafarers throw in for a department—to have this docu­ or her own doctor or health care provider. tanker job, they must present the ment in their possession when The labor movement and many others who sup­ Proponents of the president's Health Security dispatcher with documents in­ aboard such vessels," stated port the employer mandate point out that such a Act maintain that the legislation not only would system already is working efficiently in the U.S. ensure such choice, but also actually may expand a dicating they have met, the Coast Miller. A list of Coast Guard benzene Hawaii is^the/only state that requires employers to patient's options. As recently as 1988, almost 90 Guard-mandated physical criteria to work on vessels carrying ben­ exposure rules was first an­ provide health insurance, and it also has public percent of employers offered health plans under zene or benzene-containing nounced in 1991. The rules are programs to guarantee coverage for all residents which workers had their choice of any doctor. Last year, only 60 percent offered this option. products and that they are in desigined to protect mariners (including those who are not employed). House Panel Calls on Employers To Provide Health Care BeneHts �APRIL 1994 SEAFARERS LOG 9 Bosun Retires After 50 Years at Sea After sailing for five decades, Recertified Bosun Robert Schwarz signed off the LNG Leo for the last time and headed for his native Alabama. Brother Schwarz joined the union in 1943 in Mobile, Ala. He first sailed on theJo/in F. Whitten with what was then known as a "trip card." The Union Sulfur Steamship Co. vessel took a cargo of bauxite (which is used to make aluminum) to Georgetown, Guyana and Trinidad. Following that initial trip, he was issued his first union book in Mobile. In 1974, he successfully completed the bosun recertification program at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. Besides the Leo, Schwarz has sailed on other Energy Transportation Co. vessels such as the Aries, Gemini, Taurus mdi Aquarius."I have liked all of my SIU ships, but the LNG ships are a favorite of mine because they are good, clean ships that carry a clean cargo," Schwarz told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG. "Piney Point is a wonderful exBosun Robert Schwarz signs off from the L/S/G Leo following 50 years at sea with the SIU. perience. If the young sailors didn't have it, many of them would not have a chance in this industry. I have seen a lot of changes in my time with this union, and I think that it will continue to progress a long way into the fu­ ture," Schwarz noted. "I always sailed with good crews," the bosun recalled. "I began sailing in World War II and never had a ship sunk out from under me. All in all, it went good. The 50 years went fast." Seafarers aboard the Leo bid Schwarz a formal union farewell with a cookout and pool party where the entire crew came together to decorate, eat and give their best wishes to the bosun. He received special gifts from the SIU crew as well as from the of­ ficers. 'This is one of the very best crews that I have ever had the pleasure to work with. I really can't say enough about how dedicated and professional they were," he said. OS Christopher Cobb sailed aboard the Leo on the bosun's final trip and noted, "He was really a great guy to work with." Since signing off the Leo, Schwarz it was the easiest type of farm for a Seafarer to maintain. He grows' the pines to sell to paper mills that turn the wood into various paper products. "I was only coming home for four months at a time, and pine trees can grow without constant attention. In those four months, I stayed busy doing everything I couldn't do while at sea. Now that I am no longer sailing and have more time on my hands, I need to lay out my work differently," Schwarz said. He added that he was bom across the street in a farm house that his sister now maintains. His father, the original owner of the farm, was a small crop farmer. His sister still farms the land and has various types of livestock. "I plan to sit back and enjoy it all now. I'm just going to take it easy and see how the wind blows. I never think of it as being 50 years at a job. I just enjoyed sailing," Schwarz concluded. ••.g: w il. �• / 10 v'v •,'•• ••.• - APRIL 1994 SEAFARERS LOG Seafarers and Families Can Vacation at Piney Point P Electrician Joe Vazquez and family relax by pool at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point. Vazquez brings his family to Piney Point each summer for vacation. "We wouldn't miss it," he recently wrote. I .;«iS tfi |T >'''."'"C;;. 7 V'-i ^rSSS=SS?3^-=-"" 'v-' ,a„,a.adenethatou,schcoloKers. forward Below: Recertified Steward Becl^ Sleeper and family enjoy a dip in the spacious swim­ ming pool outside the training and recreation center. Piney Point also offers many other vacation attractions for Seafarers and their ifamilies. j^OI . >. ^ to mn in U.e sun. ^ V" icturesque and safe surroundings, tranquility, wide-ranging facilities and close proximity to the nation's capital are just a few of the things that make Piney Point, Md. so tempting as a vacation resort. , Seafarers and SIU pensioners won t want to miss out on the chance this year to utilize the Paul Hall Center as a vacation site for themselves and their families. All Seafarers have to do is complete the application below and mail it. Last month's issue of the Seafarers LOG provided an in-depth look at the many attrac­ tive features of Piney Point. This month, here's what a couple of members who have vacationed at the Paul Hall Center have to say: Electrician Joe Vazquez: "I've been an SIU member since 1970, and I enjoy bring­ ing the family to Piney Point for a week-ortwo-stay each summer. We relax and see some familiar union brothers, and oc­ casionally even attend meetings that affect the direction the industry is taking. I like for my family to see the camaraderie that our school offers. "The staff there does a great job, and I'm once again looking forward to fun in the sun, R&R and maybe even some crabbing this year." Bill Mitchell, Retired Captain: "Vacationing at Piney Point always is a pleasant experience. During the past t^ee years, my family, ^ong with other retired SIU members and their families, have taken advantage of staying at the beautiful facility located on the Chesapeake Bay. I like the fact that you can enjoy total peace and quiet, but also have available a variety of ac­ tivities such as boating, fishing, swimming, tennis, arts and crafts, and more. The rooms are very comfortable, the dining is fabulous and the staff is courteous. We look forward to returning to Piney Point." There you have it, in the members' own words. This year, write your own memory. Clip the coupon below and mail it to Piney Point as a first step to secure your reserva­ tion for this summer. Piney Point has something for everyone — and it's only available to Seafarers and their families. UNION MEMBER VACATION RATES A vacation stay at the Lundeberg School Is limited to two weeks per family. •'•;• . .• < $40.40/day Member $ 9.45/day Spouse $ 9.45/day Child Note: There is no charge for children 11 years of age or younger. Priceslisted inciude ail meals. . ••.f.'s::•:<•!."/• ^^4 SEAFARERS TRAINING & RECREATION CENTER Vacation Reservation Information Retired Captain Bill Mitchell and family sit in the poolside shade. Name: Social Security number: Book number: Address:. ;\"7: "/ like the fact that you can enjoy total peace and quiet, but also have available a variety of activities such as boating, fishing, swimming, tennis, arts and crafts, and more." — Retired Cap/. Bill Mitchell Si 'i- Telephone niimber: Number in party / ages of children, if applicable: Date of arrival: 1st choice: Date of departure: 2nd choice: Sid choice: Stay Is limited to 2 weeks. ___ Send this completed application to the Seafarers Training & Recreation Center, P. a. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674. I®;,: I •' �tr""".' JU^m 1994 SEAFARERS LOG 11 Members of Newest RecerRRed Steward Class Seize Their Chance to Upgrade Culinary SIdlls standing with SlU President Michael Sacco (third from left) moments after graduation are (from left) Skip Polzin, David Bond, Carnavius Davalie, J.D. Hopkins, German Rios and Billy Gigante. When Billy Gigante accepted his certificate last month for com­ pleting the steward recertification course at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Educa­ tion, the New York native had flnished a long but worthwhile joumey. Gigante graduated from the Lundeberg School's trainee pro­ gram in 1979 (Class No. 289), and he is believed to be the first Seafarer to work his way up from steward assistant to recertified steward while primarily sailing for military-contracted vessels based at Diego Garcia. "If you put your heart and soul into the union, you can go anywhere," Gigante, who last sailed aboard a Maersk Lines ves­ sel, said at the March membership meeting at Piney Point. "I am very grateful and very honored to have completed this program." Gigante's five classmates echoed his sentiments about the opportunities for advancement provided by the Lundeberg School. David Bond, Carnavius Davalie, German Rios, J.D. Hopkins and Donald "Skip" Polzin joined him in completing the highest curriculum available to SIU members who sail in the steward department—and in ur­ ging the trainees at the meeting to wholeheartedly apply themselves to their maritime careers. Wide-Ranging Course The galley gang upgraders ac­ tively took part in the wide-ranging, comprehensive course, which lasted five weeks. They practiced baking applications and more in the school's state-of-theart lecture/demonstration galley; earned certification in first aid, CPR and firefighting procedures; studied communications prin­ ciples; did extensive computer training using DOS, WordPerfect and various spreadsheet applica­ tions (for menu planning, requisi­ tion logging and other functions); and engaged in friendly but earnest cooking competitions. The course also included detailed studies of American Heart Association guidelines for low-fat and low-sdt cooking; a field trip to the annual Washington Food Show (a culi­ nary competition); thorough ex­ amination of ship safety and sanitation; and review of other pertinent topics. In addition,the new recertified stewards met for question-andanswer sessions with repre­ sentatives from each of the union's departments. For ex­ ample, they spoke with officials from the union's collective bar­ gaining department, from its governmental affairs department, from the welfare, vacation, train­ ing and pension funds and from iht Seafarers LOG. They also traveled to SIU headquarters in Camp Springs, Md. and to Washington, where they spoke with Maritime Trades Department Executive SecretaryTreasurer Frank Pecquex about key legislative issues which af­ fect the maritime industry. Davalie, who started sailing as a messman in 1967 and who has upgraded several times, com­ mended the Lundeberg School in­ structors—including Ed White, Kate Richardson, Byran Cummings and Don Yaney—and the entire staff at Piney Point for making his stay comfortable and facilitating good study habits. "The Lundeberg School is wonderful. It is the best place to learn about maritime," he said. "There is no union anywhere in the world that has what we have, especially a school like this." Davalie's home port is New Orleans. Even though the steward recertification course coincided with Mardi Gras, he said he would rather be in Piney Point: "I'd give up Mardi Gras any day to be here." Interacting with other upgraders, as well as with the trainees, was a highlight of being at Piney Point for Hopkins. "I think we all leam from each other, and that helps us do better at our jobs," he said. Hopkins, who sails from the port of Seattle, added that the safety and firefighting training At the graduation ceremony, David Bond noted the improvements made to the Paul Hall Center. will make him a better shipmate. Like Gigante, port-of-Seattle Seafarer Polzin emphasized the value of setting career goals and then being able to attain them. "I have reached my goal, and you can do the same," he said at the membership meeting. "The in­ structors here at Piney Point will help you accomplish your goals." Finally, Rios stated that all SIU members should seize the upgrading opportunities avail­ able at the Paul Hall Center. "I have learned so much here, and I'm grateful for the opportunity," said Rios, whose home port is San Juan. "Everyone should take ad­ vantage of it." M.: '• m.. it 'yy.''' I: Praise Facility .• Syy-^Y-.'f--'''''- • P'" . ' y} "This was a great opportunity, and we have a great school,' stated Bond, who sails from the port of Mobile, Ala. A graduate of the school in 1980, Bond noted the "remarkable" improvements in the Paul Hall Center since he last was there. At the graduation ceremony. Bond also stressed the impor­ German Rios keeps an eye on the At work in the school's galley tance of the Seafarers Political J.D. Hopkins (right) practices chest compressions as part of the CPR training faqility is Skip Polzin. Activities Donation. "Politics af­ curriculum taught by instmctor Byran Cummings (left). Observing is soup he is preparing. fects every one of us," he said. Skip Polzin. r-%m Paul Hall Center Stresses Healthy Menus •; - y0§ .,;.''-.V' Billy Gigante practices logging a mock requisition form on a computer. As more and more Americans adopt low-fat, low-salt diets, the Paul Hall Center continues teach­ ing steward department upgraders low to turn out healthier menus. For the past few years, Lun­ deberg School Instructor Ed White las taught Seafarers in the recer­ tified steward clasS about the American Heart Association's juidelines for low-fat and low-salt cooking. This part of the qoiirse includes detailed studies of the different types of fats (polyunsaturated, mono-unsaturated and saturated); various forms of sodium; the pos­ sible long-term effects of highfat, high-salt diets (including high blood pressure and arterio­ sclerosis); alternative ingredients and other steps to make healthier recipes (such as rinsing ground beef with water). "Once people are conscious of it, they'll woik with it," said White, who added that he strongly per­ ceives a growing dietaiy awareness in the sfij. "I'm seeing more and more that the younger a person is, the healthier he or she eats." "What he's teaching is how to live longer through better eating, and that doesn't mean boring menus," noted Don Yaney, ex­ ecutive chef at the Lundeberg School. "It means investijgating ways to make something tasty while minimizing sodium and fat." Donald "Skip" Polzin, who last month graduated from the steward recertification course, said that the studies of sodium and fat in diets were "very useful. More and more crewmembers are changing their eating habits, looking for low-fat foods like pasta. A lot of them eat less red meat and are switching tochicken and fish." A i". Jijy. mm "M �12 SEAFARERS LOG APRIL 1994 i. • Instructor Byran Cummings tosses a dummy Into the water for a Seafarer William Fretes (right) exits water as part of safety training. Instructor Byran Cummings is at left, surprise "man-overboard" drill. Paul Hall Center Augments Riverboat Safety Training yf '. • ••< -{' • ••- . • • • • 't'/ '- j' how do you evacuate up to 400 SIU members who sail aboard written tests. "This type of training is con­ passengers and 100-plus crew?" the overnight passenger boats Delta Queen and Mississippi tinuous," Cummings said. "And asked Cummings. "We taught Gween joined instructors from the we have to consider the possible how to load and unload pas­ Paul Hall Center for Maritime length of time until someone sengers, and used the life raft as a Training and Education in suc­ could be treated (by shoreside kind of waterbome taxi." cessfully completing another medical personnel). It could vary, In another new drill, crewseries of on-site safety courses depending on where the boat is. members used a modified breath­ Members also studied and ing apparatus to go underwater, late last year. Instructors John Smith practiced chemical safety, how to where they identified simulated (aboard the Delta Queen) and report and identify emergencies, damage to the hull. Byran Cummings (aboard the and how to care for someone until Other exercises included Mississippi Queen) each con­ the shipboard emergency squad making wooden patches which ducted three separate, week-long arrives. would cover ruptures in various Rob McLemore (right) assists Completingafiredrillonthe/WOare The second trip focused on parts of the boats' hulls. training sessions with the Greg Hawkins into a life raft. Marvin Joy (front) and Carl Koen. Seafarers, beginning in February firefighting and general safety. Cummings said he is optimis­ 1993 and ending in December. During this segment. Seafarers More safety training on the ves­ practiced using fire hoses and ex­ tic about continued success with sels is scheduled for this year. tinguishers and took part in drills the on-site safety training, not The '93 sessions "were the with a non-toxic smoke generator only aboard the Delta and Missis­ most advanced since we started which simulates conditions of a sippi Queens, but also aboard the American Queen, which is this training several years ago," shipboard fire. scheduled to begin operations said Cummings. "We expanded Valuable Tool sometime in 1995. "I've said on what's been done in previous "The smoke generator is one before that John and I and the years, and the members did an of the best devices that we've crews feel like family, and that outstanding job." The fact Aat there is little turn­ ever obtained," observed Cum­ certainly helps with the training," over in the deck and engine mings. "It's totally non-toxic, so Cununings noted. 'The engine departments facilitates the we can train on any area of any and deck personnel just don't change that much, so we can build instructors' goal of building on vessel." Cummings' cabin was used as on what we teach from year to the safety program from year to year, Cummings said. the site of Ae mock fire aboard year. "I definitely get the sense that This past year, infant, child the 382-foot vessel. Passengers all the crewmembers are proud of and adult CPR were added to the were alerted in advance, but the how safe these boats are. We do curriculum, along with advanced crew didn't know where the fire first aid procedures. Other new would take place. more than what s required by law. Passengers appreciate the safety consciousness of the crew. Dauud "This was done in port, and and the passengers appreciate our Yamini (left) practices the Heimlich maneuver for a choking infant segments included members while William Fretes learns the correct CPR procedure for an adult. learning how to identify and con­ some of the passengers went safety consciousness, too." tain hazardous materials; practic­ ashore," Cummings said. "But ing water survival and rescue; some stayed aboard to watch the touching on confined space safety drill. "The total time elapsed was and more. In all, several hundred six minutes, which is excellent. In Seafarers took part in the training. that time, the crew had to locate For the year, individual members the fire, get the safety gear, put it received a total of anywhere from on and get back to the site of the 15 to 120 hours of instruction, fire. I was pleased." The members also spent time including a multitude of practical work. (The emergency squads, ashore working with hose lines comprised of the master, two and other equipment. In previous years, the crews pilots, chief mate, third mate and deck crew„receive about 40 hours drew up ship plans identifying of training per week. The rest of fire mains, isolation valves,emer­ the hotel st^f receives about five gency escape areas, watertight doors and more. Those plans ex­ per week.) "The classes get better eveiy tensively were used during the year," remarked David Kish, vice most recent training. The final trip covered damage president of the Delta Queen control. Crewmembers practiced Steamboat Company. life rafts to shuttle other using On-SKe Training members (acting as passengers) The first sessions covered from the boats to shore. "We like CPR and first aid, and crewmem- to think that the vessels can al­ bers earned certification or recer- ways make it to shore in case of Learning how to constmct a wooden patch for the hull are (from left) Joseph Serpas, Mike Williams, tification by passing practical and an emergency, but if they can't. Johnny Speed, Gerald Henderson, Michael Ward and Willie Allen. \ 4 I 1 �T - ' y-er;^ '^ - . . ~-r *}• - : • ;• • " ; / V'-'' _,fi 'V'-v]--" APRIL 1994 SEAFARBISLOe 13 •--0. Seafarers Tout Empress H as Boon to Upgrading Classy Ten Seafarers in the advanced firefighting class last month be­ came the first upgraders to train aboard the Empress II, the new state-of-the-art barge which is moored at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Educa­ tion in Piney Point, Md. The upgraders took part in in­ terior firefighting and hazardous materials drills aboard the Empress II, which was launched in 1986 and formerly was used by the government for electromag­ netic testing. Lundeberg School instructors are planning a wide range of uses for the barge by deck and engine department upgraders. They have described the Empress II, which was acquired by the Lundeberg School earlier this year, as a valu­ able and versatile training tool, and the, firefighting students echoed those sentiments. "I thought it was very good because it has so many spaces, hatches and ways that someone might get lost in such a small area," commented Christian Werner, who often has sailed as a bosun aboard AT«S:T's cable ships. "We had to find the (mock) fire, isolate it and attack it. The smoke machine made the drill very realistic, not to mention very dark!" The smoke generator to which Werner referred emits non-toxic, thick smoke which simulates the conditions of a shipboard fire. David Rush Ingram, a chief electrician who sails aboard Waterman Steamship vessels, said that the Empress II "is an excellent tool. The spaces are just like what you deal with aboard ship: the engine room, the cargo holds, the bridge. There also are similar communications systems and alarms. "I've been to Piney Point Lundeberg School instructor Byran Cummings (right) preps students many times, and this barge ab­ for a simulated fire aboard the Paul Hall Center's new training barge. solutely is a Worthwhile addition.' Ingram added that the Empress 11's relatively plain ex­ terior belies the numerous, top­ flight equipment inside. "I think it's going to shock people, be­ cause when you first look at the outside, you may think there's not much to it. But once you get in­ side, the refrigeration system, the hydraulics, the winches, the bilge pumping ... all of those things can come into play, not just in firefighting but dso in other clas­ ses. Even the smaller systems, like the heating system is basical­ ly a small boiler system." Instructor John Smith stated that the training was successful. "I think the upgraders did just fine, and there's no doubt the barge will continue to be liseful. It's got a myriad of places to do Running a fire hose through one of the Empress ll's decks was part things, and it's got more than one Upgraders secure a door during a firefighting drill aboard Empress II. deck.' of the exercise. .•••"'J.- • Key Mariliiiie Issues Discussed At Unioii Meeting in Jacksonviiie Seafarers and their families last month turned out en masse for an informative, rousing meeting at the SIU hall in Jacksonville, Ha. During the two-hour gathering, members conferred with SIU Ex­ ecutive Vice President Joseph Sacco, Contracts Department Vice President Augie Tellez, Guif Coast Vice President Dean Corgey, Gulf Coast Assistant Vice President Dave Heindel and Port Agent Tony McQuay on a wide range of maritime issues. "Everybody was very enthused," said 59-year-old Recertified Steward Joe Miller, who joined the SIU in 1960in the portofNew York. "The membership was brought • •. ."'i! • "m • M:. —- — up-to-date on what the union's in photos above and below, Seafarers and their families pack the fighting for, and we appreciated Jacksonville SIU hall last month. M (the officials) being there." SIU Executive VP Joseph Sacco talks about maritime revitalization. ..t •f. Addressing the members in Jack- SIU Executive VP Joseph Sacco (center) shares a laugh with Bosun sonville is SIU VP Dean Corgey. Carlos Canales and his wife, Cook/Baker Antoinette Canales. m • -yu W and Gulf Coast VP Dean Corgey. �Vr. -y' ''.ii.. .;> 14 APIIU.1994 SEAFARBISLOB U.S. Government Releases $30 MHIien in Economic Aid idr Fishing indusby During the Boston tie-up, fishermen met with state govern­ spoken out against the use of such ment officials in order to have a fisheries disaster declared, which equipment. As these regulations were cas­ was needed to have economic aid cading upon them, the New Bed­ funds released. They also ex­ ford Seafarers, with others from pressed their concerns and sqgPutting out condiments for the afternoon ABs Stanley Williams, David Cutchins and the fishing industry, attended a gestions for the industry to U.S. lunch are SA Biyan Ellis (left) and Chief Ed Gerena enjoy a fine meal prepared by late January meeting held by U.S. Rep. Peter Torkildsen (R-Mass.) Cook Mario Martinez. the galley gang at the end of a long day. Rep. Barney Frank (D-Mass.) and and Richard Roe, the fisheries John Bullard, head of the Com­ service regional director. Following a March 9 press merce Department Office of Susconference on the Massachusetts tainable Development and capitol grounds in Boston and a Intergovernmental Affairs. The march through New Bedford to crowd, estimated at around 300, stage a sit-in on the steps of that voiced the frustrations the fisher­ town's federal building two days men were feeling over the regula- later, the fishermen sailed their tions. They also offered boats home. Seafarers aboard the military prepositioning added, "The Obregon has a much more sophisti­ suggestions to help their industry. On March 16, Seafarers flew Ship PFC Eugene A. Obregon know that they cated electrical system than most ships and Chief Shortly after this meeting, to Washington to meet with Frank could be called out to any hot spot in the world at Electrician Charles "Buddy" Ciackley and other members of the engine department keep it running Frank, whose district includes and representatives from other a moment's notice. congressional offices. They superbly." The vessel, operated by Waterman Steamship New Bedford, interceded and got The vessel was named after Private First Class the Commerce Department agen­ finished their lobbying effort in a Co., is kept fully loaded with tanks, vehicles, food discussion with Rolland SchmitEugene A. Obregon of the U.S. Marine Corps who and waters fuel and other materiel to equip firstcy to postpone the requirement ten, the head of the National was killed in the line of duty on September 26, launch U.S. Marine units for 30 days. for the black boxes for six Marine Fisheries Service, at­ 1950 in Seoul, Korea. When activated, as during Operation Desert months. The representative also tended by members of the House Storm in 1990-1991, the Obregon promised the fishermen he would Merchant Marine and Fisheries can be ready to sail within 12 hours. seek funds to pay for the black Committee staff. Mobile Port Representative Ed boxes if the fisheries service During this same week. Kelly recently boarded the 821-foot decides to reinstate them. In the President Bill Clinton visited ship during a crew change at its interim, an SlU-favored call-in Boston where he promised to winter port of Panama City, Fla. system will be used to monitor the develop an assistance package "The crewmembers make a great days at sea program. for New England. Secretary team and are prepared to ship out Brown offered the package on whenever called," Kelly told a Sail to Boston Harbor March 21. reporter from the Seafarers LOG. "The deck department, headed by A month later, more than 50 The Fight Continues Bosun Henry Bouganim, works New Bedford-based boats, in­ While certain small victories veiy well together. The ship is al­ cluding many SlU-contracted have been achieved, the battle is ways in excellent condition," Kelly vessels, sailed into Boston Harbor far frorai over. SIU officials in td call more attention to their Washington are monitoring the stated. "Overall, this is an excellent problems. The fishermen arrived disbursement of aid money to see crew. The food prepared by Steward February 28 and soon were joined that most of it reaches the fisher­ Baker Patrick Helton and the galley by boats from the fishing ports of men, while seeking further Steward/Baker Patrick Helton (left) takes time out from gang is beyond compare. They really lunch preparations to say hello to Bosun Henry Bouganim Gloucester, Woods Hole and money and comprehensive agree­ work hard to serve a wide variety of and Chief Electrician Buddy Ciackley. Provincetown, Mass. and ments to make the management meals," noted Kelly. Portland, Maine. News reports process more responsive to the The Mobile port representative estimated the total number of industry. "We feel that our fishermen boats in the harbor at 275. More are responsible for lighting a fire than 100 other fishing boats tied under the politicians and up in their home ports during the bureaucrats," said SIU Executive two-week period. Vice President Joseph Sacco. "It At the height of the event, is important to use this momen­ more than 1,800 fishermen and tum to bring the industry together 6,000 workers in associated in­ and seek permanent solutions." dustries in New Bedford alone The SIU is coordinating meet­ were not working and were ings among fishermen up and demonstrating their support for down the New England coast to the protest. address their mutual concerns. Continued from page 2 Prepositioning Ship's Crew Ready at a Moment's Notice Posing for a picture in the galley are Steward/Baker James Tucker (left) and DEU Miguel Maistro. QMED Robert Rester (left) and AB George Dean read the Seafarers LOG before lunch is served. >' :'v ''if *-r Seafarers lead hundreds of fellow fishermen down the streets of New Bedford, Mass. to dramatize the problems of their industry. All cleaned up and ready for dinner are Bosun Bernard Hutcherson (left) and AB Kevin Hamilton. From the left are SA Comelius Watkins, DEU Norman Williams and Asst. Cook Utility Timothy Williams. -'-t; �'"•4 ^ Air.,.'—- 'Ji; .i.- • -r-'-'-'v' ••'V. • '• - J. •; A.- ; SEAFARERS LOG APRIL 1994 Steady Work, Good Morale Characterize Brooks Range 15 :. •. -•-• . . -M !thi MM' ' The SlU-crewed tanker Brooks Range is characterized by steady work and good morale among the crew qn its" West Co Coast run, notes Bosun William Kleimola. In a recent communication with the Seafarers LOG, the bosun commends the crewmembers for being "good SIU brothers and co-workers." In addition, he notes that he has been fortunate over the last 10 years to catch jobs on vessels sailing primarily on the West Coast. This had allowed him to stay in touch with his family. During shipboard union meetings and in other conversations. Brooks Range crewmembers often focus on the importance of keeping the U.S. flag flying on the high seas, Kleimola reports. We know that maintaining a strong U.S.-flag merchant fleet is "We important for this country's economy and security." In a recent meeting with Wilmington, Calif. Patrolman Rob Scrivens, who provided the photos accompanying this article, ABs Donald Rothman, Paul McMahon and Edward O'Brien sajd that they appreciated the job security they have through the SIU. Meanwhile, QMED Carlito Episioco echoed their thankful­ ness and pride in the Seafarers when he stated, "The SIU is a , great union that looks out for its members, and the Brooks Range is a good, efficient ship! The vessel is operated by Interocean Management Corp. ; • ^ ..ii 'jrHS ^i w0yt ''••ft-' ••• ' mM WWM ,-' ' r Chief Steward John Hanrahan (right photo) is busy in the ship's galley, while (left to right in left photo) QMEDs Michael Merrell and Carlito Episioco pause | for a photo on the stern en route to the engine room. -3«S • . '• ' '"-ri 7 jr..; •as W '"3'•\ JJA mm 7 I» V-1 •' .%'• Above: ABs Edward O'Brien (left) and Paul McMahon review instruc­ tions aboard the tanker. 7; ; i 3-TK;?- : .--i-iivll 'ORomvi. sr/(^ •m Ml 1v.::^ T m :17 In crew lounge, checking off with Patrolman Scrivens (taking photo) are AB Ahmed Suwaileh and (standing, l-r) QMED S. Brooks, Wiper Mohamed Shaie and En­ gine/Steward Utility Albert Westbrook. Above: Bosun Kleimola gets off the launch from the Brooks Range and heads ashore in El Segundo, Calif. Meanwhile, ABs Lee Selico (left) and Donald Rothman (right) ride launch to the vessel. IKsfi:. -, • ,.:;y •' ^'v,' P if, #'85; -j3. JM -yy'y M • '' '. - M.y �16 SEAFARERS LOG Sea-Land Quality Is a Home Away From Home For Seafarers who sail aboard the Sea-Land Quality, the many familiar ports visited on a monthly basis become a welcome sight. The Quality leaves from Boston to sail for Elizabeth, N.J., Norfolk, Va., then to the European ports of Rotterdam, Bremerhaven, Felixstowe, again to Rotterdam, Le Harvre and back to Boston. The 900-foot containership docks in the port of Elizabeth every 28 days where New York Patrolman Jack Sheehan services the crew and answers their union-related questions. "This is a huge ship with a large crew. The •* — Recertified ?r"w to^nle dinrar andSAdantesCame™. . , •T' "The galley gang headed by Chief Cook John TKoar aro nlu/nvs Padella is secondA to r,r,.na none. They are always preparing many different fine meals," stated Recertified Bosun Carmine "Butch" Bova in '' ' ' - - - -L - - -.r rri . recent ships minutes sent to the Seafarers LOG. Sheehan added that the deck department headed by Bosun Bova keeps the ship in top form in every port visited throughout the year: - .1. <>4 • ; The Sea-Land-Quality docks in Port Elizabeth, N.J. every 28 days. |v 'v VAjr- « 'v" / '» »« I • Francis Hammer Carries Chemical Cargoes All Over the World \ WmMm\ iiisS'-- Seafarers aboard the Francis Hammer dock in many ports around the world while offloading chemical and petroleum cargoes. New York Patrolman Jack Sheehan had a chance to board the integrated tug-barge when it recently docked at the GATX terminal in Cartaret, N.J. The vessel had just sailed from Israel to Rotterdam, then on to New Jersey. "The crew aboard the Hammer was excellent. Bosun Peter Tusa has a great deck gang that really works hard to ensure the cargo is delivered safely," Sheehan reported to the Seafarers LOG. He added that crewmembers enjoy traveling to the variety of ports on the ITB's itinerary. Sheehan noted that Steward/Baker Janet Price and the galley gang work hard to add a variety of tastes and flavors to the menu. The Hammer took 18 hours to offload its cargo before returning to sea. Sheehan noted that the vessel is an infrequent visitor to the New York/New Jersey area. The itinerary of the 1TB has it sailing to different ports around the world. mmm IL ftBS '•f \ ,. • i' ' i"" • n-.ii The integrated tug-barge Francis Hammer Ij carries chemical and petroleum cargoes all H over the world. - >= / • X- • ..-:4 AB Nick Nichols (left) and Engine Utility Jeffery Roddy relax in crew mess area after lunch aboard the Francis Hammer. AB Steven Mayer gives Steward Baker Janet Price ideas for special desserts to be served aboard the Francis Hammer. �SEAFARERS LOG APRIL 1994 Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea May i June 1994 Membership Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, iniand Waters FEBRUARY 16 — MARCH 15,1994 •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Glass A Class B Class C Port New York 26 Philadelphia 3 Baltimore 1 Norfolk 16 Mobile 11 New Orleans 24 Jacksonville 21 San Francisco 19 Wilmington 18 25 Seattle Puerto Rico 13 Honolulu 7 Houston 22 St. Louis 0 Piney Point 1 0 Algonac 207 Totals Port 19 New York 3 Philadelphia 3 Baltimore 5 Norfolk 6 Mobile New Orleans 12 Jacksonville 9 San Francisco 13 7 Wilmington 10 Seattle 9 Puerto Rico 4 Honolulu 12 Houston 0 St. Louis 2 Piney Point 0 Algonac 114 Totals Port 16 NevvYork 3 Philadelphia Baltimore 5 Norfolk 10 Mobile New Orleans 10 Jacksonville 15 San Francisco 36 Wilmington 14 14 Seattle 1 Puerto Rico 13 Honolulu 13 Houston 0 SL Louis 2 Piney Point 0 Algonac 156 Totals Port 11 New York 1 Philadelphia 1 Baltimore 4 Norfolk 2 Mobile New Orleans 12 2 Jacksonville San Francisco 10 6 Wilmington 7 Seattle 7 Puerto Rico 4 Honolulu Houston 0 St. Louis 0 Piney Point 0 Algonac 68 Totals Totals All Departments 545 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C ••REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C Trip Reliefs DECK DEPARTMENT ; 30 7 11 19 22 28 25 18 13 25 2 18 22 4 2 1 1 I 6 , 0 ' • •: 2 4 5 .2 10 •0 0 0 44 :• 9 b 251 15 19 5 1 6 11 8 9 10 4 15 11 13 19 1Z16 12 14 11 10 11 10 3 3 11 20 •,: 16 0 .1 0 . 1 0 0 139 146 : • 6 1 1 • 0 0 1 1 . V 1 1 1 0 2 2 8 2 . ; 1 4 2 6 •••„ 0 , 0 0 19 2 3 1 4 4 6 0 0 0 55 56 5 4 22 24 40 44 49 45 48 19 12 40 0 3 0 411 52 12 14 35 36 56 53 45 37 36 9 33 60 3 12 1 494 6 2 1 5 2 7 3 4 11 6 8 28 9 1 0 0 93 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 10 21 10 0 25 14 2 16 0 186 • '5 r\4 3 20 13 21 15 17 6 13 6 38 •• It 2 19 0 233 755 171 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 3 28 4 1 1 0 4 1 10 0 5 4 6 4 6 0 4 4 1 11 0 2 10 8 •i-Vv • • ••• 4 0 0 0 15 0 0 29 110 343 385 70 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 26 1 ' V 7 4 20 2 30 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 11 10 9 6 0 0 0 142 156 1,536 0 0 1 0 1 •" 6 1 / Wh M. ' i. • !$'• 1 ' .T. t: Personals SOLOMAN M. JOSEPH Please contact Haniff "Bob" Abdool at 97-19 120th St., Richmond Hill, NY 11419; or phone (718) 846-0889. ANTHONY NOBILE Please contact your daughter, Diane Nobile Serra, at 143 Columbia St., Apt. 3A, Brooklyn, NY 11231; telephone (718) 858-7704. t 28 4 3 11 1 13 13 11 8 9 8 139 6 0 0 0 256 1,511 426 '': •••t ' 3 .r„ " ..;V lotal Kegisterea means uic uuiuuci m lutii wiiu ** "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. A total of 954 jobs were shipped on SlU-contracted deep sea vessels. Of the 954 Jobs shipped, 343 jobs or about 36 percent were taken "A" seniority member^. The rest were filled by «B" taKen by oy "A wmumy mciuiA^ip. - and «C' ^ semonty _ . ^ to March 1- 15,1994, -flAAii ^ -ICiC trip relief jobs lAkc iVArA chiniiMl. Smce SinrA the the inn people From February 16 a total of 156 were shipped. tnp relief program began on April 1,1982, a total of 20,529 jobs have been shipped. .V;i> .'a- Each port's meeting iOarts at 10:30a.m. 1 12 2 0 6,; 40 29 46 *'^'25>::-: A : 30 26 18 106 28 3 20 5 498 •:-,r Piney Point Monday, May 2, June 6 New York Tuesday: May 3, June 7 Philadelphia Wednesday: May 4, June 8 Baltimore Thursday: May 5, June 9 Norfolk Thursday: May 5, June 9 Jacksonville Thursday: May 5, June 9 Algonac Friday: May 6, June 10 Houston Mond^: May 9, June 13 New Orleans Tuesday: May 10, June 14 Mobile Wednesday: May 11, June 15 San Francisco Thursday; May 12, June 16 Wilmington Monday: May 16, June 20 Seattle Friday: May 20, June 24 San Juan ^ • Thursday: May 5, June 9 St Louis :. . Friday: May 13, June 17 Honolulu Friday: May 13, June 17 Duluth 4®. Wednesday: May 11, Jime 15 • Jfcrscy City ' • Wednesday: May 18, June 22 WS0i New Bedford Tuesday: May 17, June 21 • 0 2 6 17 Correction A photograph that ran on page 4 of the February issue of the Seafarers LOG incorrectly identified Texas politician Jim Mattox who was visiting the Houston SIU Hall. He is a candidate for U.S. Senate from the Lone Star State. Letter to the Editor Remember the WWII Merchant Mariner I would like to remind everyone that Maritime Day (May 22)once again is approaching. On thatday, remember the shocking truth: More than 700 American merchant ships were lost from enemy action during World War n, 100 on the Murmansk Run alone. During the fust six months of U.S. involvement in the war, almost400American mochant vessels were sunk by German submarines. In all, one out of every 35 American men killed from enemy action was a merchant mariner. Thousands of merchant seamen went to their graves. We were the only all-volunteer service, yet our govemment waited 43 years to give us veterans' status—and then put a price list on every medal we won. Only the Russian govemment gave us a free bronze m^al, for Murmansk. Yes, the WWII merchant mariner was indeed a forgotten hero. But remember him on Maritime Day. Peter Salvo, Retired Oiler McKeesport, PA • rj;' • . • �•1 V. >1" '• APRIL1994 18 SEAFARERSLOG Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes Seafarers International Union Directory Michael Sacco President John Fay Secretary-Treasurer Joseph Sacco Executive Vice President Augustin Tellez Vice President Collective Bargaining George McCartny Vice President West Co oast Roy A. "Buck" Mercer Vice President Government Sei^ices Jack CafFey Vice President Atlantic Coast Byron Kelley Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey Vice President Gulf Coast V -' 'W I • • •" • • ;• HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr. Algonac, MI 48001 (313)794-4988 BALTIMORE 1216 E. Baltimore St. Baltimore, MD 21202 (410)327-4900 DULUTH 705 Medical Arts Building Duluth, MN 55802 (218)722-4110 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St. Honolulu, HI 96819 (808)845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St. Houston, TX 77002 (713)659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St. Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JERSEY CITY Jerse' MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy. Mobile, AL 36605 (205)478-0916 NEW BEDFORD 48 Union St. New Bedford, MA 02740 (508) 997-5404 NEW ORLEANS 630 Jackson Ave. New Orleans, LA 70130 (504)529-7546 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718)499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St. Norfolk, VA 23510 (804) 622-1892 PHILADELPHIA FEBRUARY 16 — MARCH 15,1994 CL—Company/Lakes L—Lakes NP—^Non Priority •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac 0 12 0 16 1 2 1 10 1 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups QassCL Class L Class NP DECK DEPARTMENT 0 10 0 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 4 0 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 3 0 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 ••REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP 0 46 0 26 0 1.1 0 40 Totals All Departments 0 40 3 0 17 0 0 123 * "Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. ** "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. 2 - ^ '27; 10 17 Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters FEBRUARY 16 — MARCH 15, JL994 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C DECK DEPARTMENT •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Region 6 Atlantic Coast" Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters M 16 0 West Coast 27 Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast 0 r Lakes & Inland Waters|^ West Coast 0 13 Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Watefs West Coast Totals 0 4 0 5 0 1 2 3 0 0 0 0 1 b 0 1 • 0 11 0 19 30 ' 2 0 5 0 5 0 0 5 2 0 0 ••• • 89 1 41 97 3 46 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 1 0 •: -.O,' 0 0 1 3 0 ,7-7.b 0 0 b 4 0 1 0 3 0 2 5 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 3 0 1 0 4 0 5 0 0 1 8 4 2 ••REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 4. 83 2 5 0 5 12 0 27 0 62 89 3 1, 39 0 43 1 J 0 0 2 5 : 0 0 5 5 ••.••44'"^ 2 2 12 2 18 , 0 2 0 0 2 16 113 105 55 144 Totals All Departments 45 40 * "Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. ** "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of nien registered at the port at the end of last month. Reminder: Z-Cards Musi Be Renewed All Seafarers are reminded that their z-cards have to be updated by 1998. The Coast Guard has outlined a plan, based on the issuance date of the documents obtained before 1991. The date of issuance is located on the back of the z-card to the right of the thumb prints. (Since 1991, z-cards have been issued with expiration dates posted on both the front and back of the docu­ ments.) The following chart shows the year that merchant mariner's documents, in order to remain active, must be renewed based on issuance dates. The exact date of expiration matches the month and day of issuarice. 4 sit -* • Philadelphia," PA 19148 (215)336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75 Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 2 West Dixie Highway Dania, FL 33004 (305) 921-5661 SANFRANCISCQ 350 Fremont St. San Francisco, CA 94105 (415)543-5855 Government Services Division (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave. Stop 1616 Santurce, PR 00907 (809) 721-4033 SEATTLE 2505 First Ave. Seattle, WA 98121 (206) 441-1960 ST. LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave. St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave. Wilmington, CA 90744 (310)549-4000 Renewal Year 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 Issuance Year 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1 1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 1 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1 1969 1970 1971 1972 1964 1965 1966 1967 1973 1968 1 1 1959 1960 1961 1962 1963 1 1954 1955 1956 1957 1958 1 1949 1950 1951 1952 1953 1 1944 1945 1946 1947 1948 1 1939 1940 1941 1942 1943 1 1937 1938 1 Source: Federal Register, September 16,1993 •• �SEAFARERS UK APRIL 1994 J oining the growing number of SIU pensioners this month are 18 additional Seafarers who have retired to the beach after many years of sailing the world's seaways. Thirteen of those signing off sailed in the deep sea division while four sailed the inland waterways and one the Great Lakes. Brothers Arthur Lawson Jr. and Robert McGonagle com­ pleted bosun recertification cour­ ses at Piney Point while Robert Outlaw graduated from the steward recertification course. Of the retiring Seafarers, 12 served in the U.S. military: six in the Army, three in the Air Force, two in the Navy and one in the Marine Corps. Of all the union brothers sign­ ing off this month, Daniel O'Rourke was with the SIU the longest—having received his union book in 1945 in the port of New York. Brief biographical sketches of Brothers Lawson, McGonagle, Outlaw and O'Rourke as well as the other new pensioners follow. DEEP SEA THOMAS COLBERT, 53, joined the Seafarers in 1959 in the port of New York. Bom in Jefferson Township, Pa,, he sailed in the deck depart­ ment. Brother Colbert resides in Violet, La. MARGARITO DEGOLLADO, 65, joined the SIU in 1955 in the port of Houston. A native of Gal­ veston, Texas, he sailed in the steward department. Brother Degollado served in the U.S. Air Force from 1946 to 1947. He retired to Houston. AMERICO FARIA,70, joined the SIU in 1959 in the port of San Francis­ co. Bom inNew Bedford, Mass., he To Our New Pensioners ... Thanks for a Job Well Done I- INLAND • -.ri"- M - -ft V.i.. •U • '• ;jS •••; •t-: SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE SIU PACIFIC DISTRICT PENSION PLAN JOHN KARONIS, 65, joined the union in 1971 in the port of New York. Bom in Greece, he sailed in the engine department. Brother Karonis upgraded frequently at the Lundeberg School. He retired to Athens, Greece. A new round of general education college courses, taught at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, will begin May 9 and will mn through July 8. These evening classes for upgraders taking vocational training courses are designed to enhance the proficiency of SIU members in areas related to the maritime industry. Among the subjects that will be offered are General Physical Science II, Physics II, Composition and Rhetoric, Composition and Literature, College Mathematics I and Principles of Psychology. Also available during the session will be Development MathemaUcs, Developmental Writing and Developmental Reading. These courses are available during the free time for all Seafarers who are upgrading at the center. They provide members with the opportunity to gain college credits while improving their seafaring skills. The Lundeberg School at the center offers two Associate of Applied Science degrees: Nautical Science Technology for Seafarers sailing in the deck department and Marine Engineering Technology for engine department members. (SIU members from either department who have upgraded at the school already have eamed credit toward a degree.) For more information about these courses and the college program in general, contact the academic department at the Lundeberg School at (301)994-0010 or write Academic Department, Seafarers Harry Lun­ deberg School of Seamanship, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674. •"•1i'.?v ... from 1950 to 1953. He calls San Francisco home. RAYMOND BAXTER, Each month in the Seafarers LOG, the names of SIU members who recently have become 61, joined the pensioners appear with a brief biographical sketch. These men and women have served Seafarers in the maritime i^ustry well, and the SIU and all their union brothers and sisters wish them 1973 in the happiness and health in the days ahead. port of Nor­ folk, Va. A native of ConROBERT ARTHUR sailed in the engine department. roe, Texas, he OUTLAW, Brother Faria served in the U.S. LAWSON sailed in the engine department. 63, joined the JR., 62, Army from 1944 to 1946. He calls Boatman Baxter retired to Seafarers in joined the Sacramento, Calif, home. Hampton, Va. 1971 in his na­ Seafarers in tive Bal­ 1967 in the WILBUR ULAS COFFMAN, 61, joined the timore. GEE, 61, port of New SIU in 1951 in the port of Galves­ Brother Out­ joined the York. A na­ law success­ ton, Texas. Bom in Elk Falls, Kan­ union in 1964 tive of Fall sas, he sailed in the deck fully completed the steward recer­ River, Mass., he completed the in the port of department. Boatman Coffman tification program in 1982. He bosun recertification program at New York. A served in the U.S. Army from 1951 served in the U.S. Air Force from Piney Point in 1989. Brother LawPort Arthur, 1953 to 1956. He lives in Houston. to 1953. He retired to Chesapeake, son resides in Clearwater, Fla. Texas native, Va. he sailed in WILBERT the engine department. Brother DEQUEANT, ROBERT HUBERTO Gee served in the U.S. Navy from 62, joined the McGONAGLE, VERA, 65, 1949 to 1953. He retired to Sabine union in 1964 62, joined the joined the Pass, Texas. in the port of SIU in 1956 SIU in 1957 Port Arthur, in his native in the port of JACOB Texas. A na­ Boston. New York. A GROBY, 65, tive of Ar­ Brother Mc­ Motul, joined the cadia, La., he Gonagle suc­ Mexico na­ Seafarers in most recently sailed as a captain. cessfully tive, he sailed 1974 in the Boatman Dequeant resides in completed the bosun recertification in the deck department. Brother port of Hous­ Elton, La. program at the Lundeberg School Vera upgraded at (he Lundeberg ton. A native in 1979. He served in the U.S. School in 1981. He served in the of Savannah, LOUIS SMITH H, 53, joined the Army from 1948 to 1954. He calls U.S. Army from 1952 to 1955. Ga., he sailed Seafarers in 1972 in the port of Ewa Beach, Hawaii home. Brother Vera resides in Jardines in the deck department. Brother Norfolk, Va. Bom in Oklahoma Medrida, Mexico. City, he sailed in the engine depart­ Groby served in the U.S. Marine DANIEL ment. Boatman Smith served in the Corps from 1946 to 1948. He lives O'ROURKE, HUGH U.S. Navy from 1956 to 1960. He in Buna, Texas. 68, joined the WOOTEN, retired to Riverview, Fla. union in 1945 65, joined the WILLARD in the port of GREAT LAKES union in 1970 HUGGINS, New York. A of in the port ARNOLD PERRY, 65, joined the 66, joined the New Jersey San Francis­ SIU in 1956 in the port of Buffalo, SIU in 1962 native, he co. Bom in N.Y. A New Bedford, Mass. na­ in the port of sailed in the Utah, he tive, he sailed in the deck depart­ Mobile, Ala. deck department. Brother O'­ sailed in the ment. Brother Perry served in the The Virginia Rourke upgraded at Piney Point fre­ steward department. Brother U.S. Army from 1946 to 1953. He native sailed quently. He resides in Seattle. Wooten served in the U.S. Army still calls New Bedford home. in the engine department. Brother Huggins served in the U.S. Air Force from 1945 to 1947. He calls Mobile home. Hew Eveahv Cmrse Sesskm Be^ Far LmuUberg SOUHH Unnulwrs . 19 - > /. .. .U ft This is a summary of the annual report for the SIU Pacific District Pension Plan (Employer Identification No. 94-6061923, Plan No. 001) for the year ended July 31, 1993. The annual report has been filed with the Intemal Revenue Service, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Basic Financial Statement Benefits under the plan are provided bya trast arrangement. Plan expenses were $14,115,589. These expenses included $1,185,930 in administrative expenses and $12,929,659 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of5,887 persons were participants in or beneficiaries of the plan at the end of the plan year, although not all of these persons had yet eamed the right to receive benefits. The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $166,849,849 as of July 31, 1993, compared to $156,607,49,8 as of July 31,1992. During the plan year the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $10,242,351. This increase included unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the value of plan assets; tl(at is, the difference between the value of the plan's assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year or the cost of assets acquired during the year. The plan had total income of $24,357,940 including employer contributions of $451,536, earnings from investments of $5,923,986, stock dividends of $437,114, net realized gain on sale or exchange of assets of $4,533,531, unrealized appreciation of assets of $12,854,269 and other income of $157,504. Employees do not contribute to this plan. r •, = Minimum Funding Standards Our actuary's statement shows that enough money was contributed to the plan to keep it funded in accordance with the minimum funding standards of ERISA. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thoeof, on request The items listed below are included in that report: 1. An accountant's report; 2. Assets held for investments; 3. Actuarial information regarding the funding of the plan; 4. Transactions in excess of five (5) percent of plan assets;and 5. Fiduciary information, including transactions between the plan and parties-in-interest (th« is, persons who have certain relationships with the plan). To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of the plan administrator, SIU Pacific District Pension Plan, 522 Harrison Street, San Francisco, CA 94105. Telephone Number: (415) 495-6882. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements will be included as part of that report. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan, 522 Harrison Street, San Francisco, CA 94105, and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, DC or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department of Labor should be addressed to: Public Disclosure Room, N4677, Pension and Welfare Benefit Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20216. f �20 APRIL 1994 SEAFARERS LOG .- v-v. Final Departures DEEP SEA SALEHALI JOHN CISIECKI Pensioner John Cisiecki, 63, passed away February 16. A native of Pennsyl­ vania, he joined the SIU in 1941 in the port of New York. Brother Cisiecki completed the bosun recertification program at Piney Point in 1974. He began receiv­ ing his pension in February 1987. r- ;t: .. if ;-::••• • -••I'-''-. ''••"•.? • ' • ^ •••" ;• y • ^'; :':v K k- IPlliiirV,. i:L- •' . Saleh Ali, 34, died Oc­ tober 10, 1988. Bom in Yemen, he joined the Seafarers in 1975 in the port of New York. Brother Ali sailed in the deck department. .^•: Hi:'-: V.;.'..: iSil Ijf;ff': I - • 'V- ; .joiVA/- • •• FRANK CONWAY Pensioner Frank Conway, 72, died February 28. He started sail­ ing with the union in 1969 in his native San Francisco. Brother Conway sailed in the engine department. He served in the U.S. Army Air Force from 1942 to 1944. Brother Conway retired in August 1988. PEDRO GARCIA Pensioner ~ Pedro Gar­ cia, 81, passed away Febraary 18. Bom in Puer­ to Rico, he joined the Seafarers in 1943 in the port of New York. Brother Gar­ cia sailed in the steward depart­ ment. He began receiving his pension in March 1977. ANTHONY HANNA Pensioner Anthony Hanna, 72, died March 6. A Shenan­ doah, Pa. na­ tive, he joined the SIU in 1948 in the port of Baltimore. Brother Hanna sailed in the deck department. He retired in November 1982. BILLIE JENKINS ii- f/'i ";•. • •, r ! . :p. I^':| if- . S;, ' Pensioner Billie Jenkins, 67, passed away Febraary 23. Bom in Ash­ land, Ky., he joined Ae union in 1957 in the port of Philadelphia. Brother Jenkins sailed in the engine department. He began receiving his pension in January 1986. VICTOR PLACEY Pensioner Victor Placey, 69, died Febraary 14. A native of Pennsyl­ vania, he joined the Seafarers in 1943 in the port of New York. Brother Placey sailed in the deck department. He retired in Febraary 1989. Boatman Frederickson sailed in the engine department. He began receiving his pension in October 1987. ment. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army in World War II. Brother Hopkins retired in May 1985. RICHARD SMITH Pensioner Richard Smith, 76, passed away January 30. Bom in Florida, he joined the SIU in 1952 in the port of New York. Brother Smith sailed in the steward department. He served in the U.S. Navy during World W^r 11. Brother Smith began receiving his pension in April 1982. HARVEY DAVIS Harvey Davis, 58, passed away March 3. A Missouri native, he joined the SIU in 1970 in the port of St. Louis. Boatman Davis sailed in the engine department. LAWRENCE RODAL Pensioner Lawrence Rodal, 64, died Febraary 10. A Michigan native, he joined the Seafarers in 1966 in the port of Frankfort, Mich. He sailed in the engine department. BrothCT Rodal upgraded at Piney Point in 1979. He began receiving his pen­ sion in December 1986. ROBERT STAPLIN Pensioner Robert Staplin, 73, died January 26. A native of Attleboro, Mass., he joined the union in 1955 in the port of New York. Brother Staplin sailed in the engineroom. He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy in World War II. Brother Staplin retired in August 1985. JOHNCOSSMAN Pensioner John Cossman, 67, passed away January 11. He joined the Seafarers in 1970 in his native Hous­ ton. Boatman Cossman last sailed as a tankerman. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1944 to 1947. Boatman Cossman retired in January 1989. STEPHEN TAYLOR Pensioner Stephen Taylor, 66, died December 24. A native of Lawrence, Kan., he joined the SIU in 1958 in the port of Los Angeles. Boatman Taylor sailed in the steward department. He began receiving his pension in January 1992. OSMAN ZEN Pensioner Osman Zen, 75, passed away Febraary 21. A Philippine Island native, he joined the union in 1958 in the port of New York. Brother Zen sailed in the steward department. He began receiving his pension in November 1982. INLAND WILLIAM CARMEAN William Carmean, 69, died December 26. Bom in Mathews, Va., he joined the Seafarers in 1972 in the port of Philadelphia. Boatman Carmean sailed as a mate. He retired in January 1988. CHRISTIAN FREDERICKSON Pensioner Christian Frederickson, 68, died Febraary 26. He joined the union in 1961 in his native Philadelphia. George Quinones passed away October 4, 1993. The retired engine department member joined the union in New York as a charter member in 1939. He was 82. Quinones was involved in several of the union's early or­ ganizing drives. He sailed during World War II, the Korean conflict and the Viet­ nam War. A February 22 ceremony conducted by the U.S. Coast Guard to honor the former mer­ chant marine veteran was fol­ lowed by the scattering of Brother (^inones's ashes at sea in Corpus Christi, Texas, as he had requested. Houston SIU Repre­ sentative Mike Calhoun at­ tended the services and presented the family with a traditional flower wreath to toss into the water following the memorial ceremony. RAILROAD MARINE GREAT LAKES SEYMOUR WOLFSON JOHN HOPKINS Pensioner Pensioner Seymour John Hop­ Wolfson, 68, kins, 74, passed away passed away Febraary 14. Januaiy 31. He joined the Bom in Seafarers in Alabama, he 1957 in his joined the native Brook­ union in lyn. Brother 1960 in the Wolfson completed the bosun port of Detroit. Brother Hop­ recertification course at Piney kins sailed in the engine departPoint in 1982. He began receiv­ ing his pension in January 1990. WILSON YARBROUGH Pensioner Wilson Yarbrough, 78, died January l8. Bom in Texas, he joined the SIU in 1947 in the port of New York. Brother Yarbrough sailed in the steward department. He retired in Septem­ ber 1974. STANLEY STIGEN Pensioner Stanley Stigen, 72, rassed away February 19. Jom in Wis­ consin, he joined the SIU in 1960 in the port of Detroit. Brother Stigen sailed in the deck department. He retired in March 1987. Charter Member George Quinones Dead at 82 PAULBASSETT Pensioner Paul Bassett, 85, died Febraary 16. A Virginia native, he joined the union in 1959 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Brother Bassett sailed in the deck department. He began receiving his pension in January 1974. SIU Rep. Mike Calhoun (left) offers condolences to the Quinones family following the memorial ceremony in Corpus Christi, Texas. SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE SIU PD SUPPLEMENTAL BENEFITS FUND, INC. This is a summary of the annual report for the SIU PD Supplemental Benefits Fund, Inc. (Employer Identification No. 94-1431246, Plan No. 501) for the year ended July 31,1993, The annual report has been filed with the Internal Revenue Service, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). The SIU PD Supplemental Benefits Fund, Inc. has committed itself to pay benefit claims incurred under the terms of the plan. Basic Financial S^ement Benefits under the plan are provided by a trust arrangement. Plan exjrenses were $7,873,980. These expenses included $245,729 in administrative expenses and $7,628,251 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 1,945 persons were participants in or beneficiaries of the plan at the end of the plan year, although not all of these persons had yet earned the right to receive benefits. The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $2,965,498 as of July 31,1993, compared to $3,052,472 as of the beginning of the plan year. During the plan year the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $86,974. The plan had total income of $7,787,006 including employer contributions of $7,560,449, earnings fix)m investments of $111,803, and other income of $114,754. Employees do not contribute to this plan. Your Bights to Additionai Information You have the right to receive a copy of the fully annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: 1. An accountant's rqjort; 2. Assets held for investment; 3. Transactions in excess of five (5) percent of the fund assets; and 4. Fiduciary information, including transaction between the plan and parties-in-interest (that is, persons who have certain relationships with the plan). To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of the plan administrator, SIU PDSupplemental Benefits Fund, Inc., 522 Harrison Street, San Francisco, CA 94105. Telephone Number; (415) 495-6882. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements will be included as part of that report. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan, 522 Harrison Street, San Francisco, CA 94105, and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, DC or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costSi Requests to the Department of Labor should be addressed to: Public Disclosure Room, N4677, Pension and Welfare Benefit Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW, Washington, D.C. 20210. �APRIL 1994 SEAFARERS LOR 21 •.•if-i?;- • Appeals Board A/^^roves Sh^ipbig Rules Changes Updates Mandated by New Federal Regulations and Contract Revisions •f'-V-V '.. ••'•" T'i; I '.v " •• 1 The Seafarers Appeals Boarc has approved extensive changes in the shipping rules that govern how SIU members claim ant maintain deep sea jobs. Many of the rule changes are technical, mandated by recently implemented federal regulations like the Oil Pollution Act of 199 (CPA '90). All of thechanges thai appear in Action 372 have been incorporated and printed in the 1993 Standard Freightship Agreement and the 1993 Stand ard Tanker Agreement. "We have completed thorough review of the shippin rules in order to bring them up date," noted Augie Tellez, SIl vice president for contracts and collective bargaining. "Maa changes have occurred since the shipping rules were last printed The new contracts contain the up dated rules." The modifications within the shipping rules include those adopted with regard to benzene testing of members, claiming o jobs aboard cable ships and the conditions for requesting trip reliefs. Action 372 went into effect immediately after its was passec by the board, which is composed of representatives from both the SIU and its contracted com­ panies. The complete text of the action is printed below. or other accredited hospital. except as specifically provided qualifications, seniority, date oj Certificate." Change to read as follows: ". . for in (a) and (p) of Rule 2.G.21. registration, etc. Transportation New language added in 5, an accredited doctor or hospi­ and "(c) It is mandatory that in such cases shall be provided by Preferences and Priorities,12.(a) tal." crewmembers make arrange­ the Employer." and renumbered as new 13. to Change language in 2. Ship ments to attend the lifeboat pro New language in first para read as follows: "13. Trip ping Procedure 5(b)&(c) to reac gram conducted at the Seafarers graph of 5. Preferences and Reliefs, Permanent Ratings. as follows: "(b) Effective June Harry Lundeberg School Priorities, 2.(a) to read as fol­ Anything contained in these 16, 1993, no seaman shall be Seamanship within the first eight lows: "2. (a) If a laid up ship Rules to the contrary not­ shipped to a contracted vessel (8) months of employment." Re requires a crew to report for duty withstanding, the following without having passed the pre letter old (d) through (r) with new aboard a vessel within thirty (30, shall be applicable. hire drug test pursuant to U.S. (c) through (q) respectively. days following layup, the crew "(a) The following specified Coast Guard regulation (CO DChange language in 2. Ship members at the time of layup shah ratings enumerated in this sub­ 86-067) (46 GFR, 4, 5 and 16) ping Procedure, K (deleted last have priority for all such jobs, section (a),possessing Class "A" except those seamen who meet the paragraph and section that listed provided that such crewmembers seniority, upon attaining four (4) requirements of the USCG drug key personnel) to read asfollows: are registered at a Union hiring months of continuous employ­ test exemptions in effect at that "K. In recognition of the impor­ hall not later than 5 p.m. on the ment aboard a specific vessel, time," and "(c) Effective tance of developing effective third day following the date oj shall be designated as having December 1, 1992, no seaman American-flag passengership layup. If the third day following Permanent Status for such vessel shall be shipped to a contractec utilization and in an effort to en layup is a Sunday or a recognizee' and shall request a relief of no tanker, tank vessel or barge as courage the recruitment of per­ holiday in such port, the period in less than sixty (60) days or one (1) specified in the U.S. Coast Guard sonnel with the necessary skills which registration must be com round trip where the vessels' regulations, without first provid­ and personnel qualifications and pleted shall be extended through schedule of operations involves ing a Seafarers Welfare Plan further recognizing that the suc­ the next business day. If a laid up voyages in excess of sixty (60) Benzene Clearance on their clinic cess of such development with ship requires a crew to report days, upon the vessels' arrival at card and a current Seafarers beneficial and economic benefit within three (3) days or less fol­ a port in the Continental United Welfare Plan Benzene Certifi­ to the employer and employees in lowing the date of layup, the States or Puerto Rico or other cate." substantial amount is dependent crewmembers at the time of layup mutually agreed to port. The pur^ Delete the third paragraph Oj upon competent and efficient per­ may register up to and including pose of this provision is to provide 2. Shipping Procedure 7,C.3 sonnel, for such reason during the the date the ship is re-crewing. It as closely as the vessels' opera­ which reads: "Notwithstanding term of the agreement, the Com­ is the responsibility of the crew­ tional necessities permit, a four the foregoing and anything con pany shall have the absolute anc members wishing to reclaim their (4) months on and two (2) months tained in these Rules to the con final discretion to recruit, accept, jobs to maintain contact with the off work schedule for the Per­ trary notwithstanding and as long reject or promote the personnel Port Agent where registered manent ratings. as there remains in effect the assigned to the SS Constitution since such jobs are available to "All requests for reliefs shall Seafarers Harry Lundeberg and SS Independence hotel sec­ crewmembers employed at the be so designated when referred School of Seamanship entry tion by reason of their respon­ time of payoff for a limited period by the Company to the Manpower training program for Ordinary sibilities in the conduct of the of time, but not to exceed twenty- Pool Coordinator and shall be Seaman, Wiper and Steward furtherance of the Company's four (24) hours, if available." shipped pursuant to the rules Department adopted by Seafarers business and politics. With Add new language in 5. prescribed herein. Harry Lundeberg School o respect to all replacement of such Preferences and Priorities, 4.(d, "During the period of employ­ SAB Action #372 Seamanship and as it may be personnel, the Company shal to read as follows: "(d) Within ment, permanent ratings may re­ Whereas, during the term oj changed from time to time, per­ give prompt notice to the Union each class of seniority in the Deck quest an emergency relief for the SIU Standard Freightship and sons possessing seniority clas­ hiring hall of the availability oj Department, priority for the job thirty (30) days, but no less than Tanker Agreements which ex­ sification "B" shall be limited, such employment. The Union of "Cable A.B." shall be given to fifteen (15) days, as dictated by pired June 15, 1993, the however, to employment oppor­ hiring hall shall refer suitable those seamen who have satisfac­ the vessel's operational neces­ Seafarers Appeals Board enactec tunities aboard vessels owned or and competent available person­ torily completed the entry rating sities. The four (4) month employ­ numerous shipping rule changes, chartered by the U.S. military anc' nel to the Company, and the Com­ training program at the Seafarers ment period shall be reduced by and operated by contracted civilian pany shall give due consideration Harry Lundeberg School of the number of days taken for Whereas, during the negotia­ employers pursuant to being suc­ to such referrals consistent with Seamanship and have completed emergency relief. Transportation tions of the new Standard Collec­ cessful bidders in accordance the skills arid competence of those at least eight (8) months of expenses, if any, shall be borne by tive Bargaining Agreements that with Request for Proposals referred, all consistent, however, employment aboard a cable ship the seaman requesting relief arid expire June 16,1996, several rule RFPs) and limited solely to the with the practical time con­ and possess U.S. Coast Guard the seaman providing the relief. changes were negotiated, and extent that such vessels are so straints. certification as Able Seaman." Trip reliefs shall be provided orily Whereas, several changes in designated for such purposes 'All personnel, upon comple­ Change language in 5. if a relief is available. Seamen various Federal regulations were solely by the SAB by action in tion of their tour of duty, shall Preferences and Priorities, 5.(c) who leave a vessel without a implemented that directly affect writing from time to time and to register at the hiring hall in to read as follows: "(c) Within •rroper relief shall forfeit their the shipping rules, those passenger vessels ap­ Honolulu within forty-eight (48) each class of seniority rating in reclaim rights. All seamen Now therefore, be it resolved plicable solely to the Steward hours after leaving the vessel. the Engine Department, priority returning to their ship after the that the Seafarers Appeals Board, Department and again so desig­ They must reclaim their job from for the job of Marine Electronics emergency relief period must acting under and pursuant to the nated for such purposes solely by the hiring hall shipping board Technician shall be given to those notify the hiring hall of their authority granted in Article 9 of the SAB by action in writing from 'orty-eight (48) hours prior to seamen possessing a certificate of scheduled return. the SIU Shipping Rules, shall im­ time to time." 'Permanent ratings as rejoining their assigned vessel." satisfactory completion of the ad­ plement the following amend­ specified below shall have the Add "Cable AB" position to vanced course of training by the Change language in the first right to one emergency relief Seafarers Harry Lundeberg the bottom left column of 3. Deck ments: sentence of 2. Shipping Proce­ Delete 1. Seniority l.(b) dure, 9 to read as follows: "Ex­ Department, Group 1-Day School of Seamanship for the leriod in any twelve (12) month second half of paragraph that cept where specifically provided Markers. rating of Marine Electronics period Seamen shipped as emer­ reads: . . and as well as any 'or in these Rules..." Add the word "rating" in the Technician, in the event such gency relief shall be designated as 'Emergency Reliefs.'" unlicensed seaman possessing Add new language to 2. Ship­ second sentence part 4. Business course is being offered." Change language in 5. Add new language 5. Class "B". . ."to end of para­ ping Procedure, 19(c) to read as 1 lours and Job Calls, C, to read follows: "(c) However, Ordi­ as follows: "If the sixth (6th) job references and Priorities, 9. Preferences and Priorities, graph. Delete 1. Seniority 2.(d) that nary Seamen employed aboard call does not produce a qualified from "... a U.S.P.H.S. or other 3.(e), to read as follows: "(e) reads: "(d) Seamen, who after cable ships, who have satisfac­ seaman possessing either Class accredited hospital... "to new Every effort will be made by the having been employed in the hotel torily completed the Seafarers A" or Class "B" seniority 'anguage to read as follows: "... seamen rejoining the vessel to do section of passenger vessels for a larry Lundeberg School of rating, the said job shall be an accredited hospital arid who so at the same port where the relief was provided." period of ninety (90) days... "to Seamanship entry training pro­ awarded to the seaman possess­ Add new language 5. New language added in 5. end of paragraph. Re-letter old gram, shall be permitted to ing Class "C" seniority rating (e) and (f) to new (d) and (e) remain aboard a cable ship for a entitled to the same under these references and Priorities, 11., references and Priorities, 13.(f), third paragraph and new 12., to 'ast sentence should read as foltotal of two hundred and forty Rules." respectively. Add new language to 4. Busi­ read as follows: "11. All seamen 'ows: "In such cases, the seaman Add new language in 1. 240) days with a sixty (60) day Seniority 3., second paragraph to relief period afterfour (4) months ness Hours and Job Calls, D.2., having permanent status aboard 7eing relieved shall register at his read as follows: "All seamen who of continuous employment in first part of D now numbered i [.NG carriers shall not compete home port." Add new language 5. retired from the industry who order to obtain the necessary D.l.) to read as follows: "2. In br employment aboard any other subsequently decide to return to seatime required by the U.S. the event that personnel are re­ contracted vessel during their 'references and Priorities, 13.(i), . the industry shall possess Class Coast Guard to obtain Able quired by a cable ship to assist in relief period. Failure to comply beginning of first sentence the repair of a cable break, all with this provision will terminate changed to read as follows: "(i) "C" Seniority notwithstanding Seaman certification." .Except as specifically provided Delete language in 2. Shipping jobs requested by the Employer , oermanent status. the level of seniority possessed by "12. All seamen seeking br in these Shipping Rules,..." such seamen prior to retirement. 'Procedure, 21(a), (b) and move shall be referred by Manpower to Language changed 5. This provision shall be automat­ c) to the (b) position and replace the port nearest to where the employment aboard contract^ ically applied unless waived by aforementioned to read as fol- cable ship involved is located, for tankers, tank vessels, and/or bar­ references and Priorities, 13.(1) the Seafarers Appeals Board 'ows: "21. CREW ROTATION- one job call only. All jobs not ges as specified within the mean­ to read as follows: "(I) It is the when industry conditions so dic­ PASSENGER VESSELS, (a) filled on the initial referral shall ing of the United States Coast responsibility of the seaman Ime off for Employees shall be in then be made available by Man­ Guard Benzene Regulations, 5eing replaced to maintain con­ tate." Change language in 1. accordance with the contractual power to all ports simultaneously must possess a current Benzene tact with the Port Agent at the Seniority 3. F., end of first sen­ agreement in effect between the and offered to those seamen first clearance on their Seafarers Wel­ tence, old text reads: ". .. in the Jnion and the Employer," and responding, subject to standard fare Plan clinic card, and a valid Continued on page 25 continuing care of a U.S.P.H.S. (b) Time off will not be granted shipping procedures involving Seafarers Welfare Plan Benzene -• • /V.:- • ."jr'' '• •' '1 ' •. �22 - .'• •. •.' •' SEAFARERS LOG APRIL 1994 Seafarers In Readiness ;W i-:. vCirs-^-i-:v. ^1' v; . ^ Firing 9mm pistols under the watchful eyes of a Marine colonel are Chief Mate Rich Malloy (left) and AB Scott Edington. C:\ SA Mac Browne and Chief Steward Bill Finhandler stand on deck and watch the Pearl Harbor shoreline disappear. Maintaining a steady pace for a floating repair shop for U.S. Marine Corps aircraft during a military training exercise in the Pacific was the job of Seafarers aboard the USNS Curtiss. The SlU-crewed vessel, operated by American Overseas Maritime Corp. (Amsea), was taken off reserve operating status and ac­ tivated to participate in a three-week drill called "Operation Determined Warrior" between Port Hueneme, Calif, and Pearl Harbor, Hawaii during February. Seafarers worked with Marines stationed on board the vessel to load 150 containers'in the port of Pearl Harbor. The boxes contained stores, spare parts and repair shops. Loading took three days. The actual exercise began with six to eight hours of flight operations on the vessel's return from Hawaii. Among the activities taking place on the Curtiss were helicopter landings on and takeoffs from the flight deck. During the five-day transit back to the States, the Marines utilized the ship's machine shops to repair fixed-wing (jets and propeller planes) and rotary (helicopter) aircraft parts. "We really enjoyed participating in the train­ ing exercises with the Marines," noted AB Scott Edington, who provided the Seafarers LOG with the photographs on this page. Edington added that all the Seafarers on board under the direction of Bosun Chnck Bowen worked hard to assist the Marines in whatever needed to be done. The Cwrrws, a former containership, was converted to an aircraft maintenance repair ves­ sel for the Marine Corps in 1986. During the conversion, the vessel was designed to include a flight deck. The actual aircraft that is being repaired is never brought on board, only the parts needing repair reached the Curtiss, explained a spokesman for Amsea. The Curtiss proved vital during Operation Desert Storm, serving as one of two floating repair stations for the military. ::• Crewmembers had a chance to learn from the military training exer­ cises. EU/FOWT Paul Telege (left), 1st Assistant Engineer Paul Cammaroto and DEL) Joe Schultz (holding the gun) are taught the proper way to fire a 50 caliber machine gun. Working on deck aboard the aircraft main­ tenance repair vessel is OS Curtis Phillips. OS Tyrone Johnson (left) handles^lhe lines while AB Ken Herzstein operates winch. 'Vil' ' Marines stand at attention as the Curtiss pulls out of Pearl Harbor. AB Billy Henderson (left) and AB Frank Hedge prepare for docking. V<' • Some of the crewmembers who participated in "Operation Oetermined,Warrior" include (from left) Chief Cook Fred Saffo, Chief Steward Bill Finhandler, ABs Billy Henderson and Ray Johnson, OSs Curtis Phillips, Reggie Pascua, Tyrone Johnson and Phil Wilson, and ABs Kenny Herzstein and Frank Hedge. Pictured on deck above is 2nd Assistant Engineer George Adams. '• �ji'.; W APRIL 1994 SEAFARERS LOG heading from Panama to Baton Rouge, La. Educational director reminded crew to practice safety and all times. He urged members to donate to SPAD and upgrade at Lundeberg School. No beefs or dis­ The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union ship­ puted OT reported. Crew reported board minutes as possible. On occasion, bi^use of space microwave oven and freezer or­ dered. Chairman advised crewmemiimitations, some will be omitted. bers to put normal size loads in Ships minutes first are reviewed by the union's contract department. washer. Crew thanked galley gang Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the for good food. Next port: Chiriquf Grande, Panama. union upon rece/pf of the ships minutes. The minutes are then Digest of Ships Meetings forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. AMERICAN CORMORANT (Ospey Shipping), January 9— Chairman Vernon Huelett, Secretary D.K. Goggins, Deck Delegate Calvin Patterson, En­ gine Delegate Robert McDonald, Steward Delegate Robert Wright. Educational director reminded members to upgrade skills at Liindeberg School. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Crew requested patrolman to meet ship in port. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang for great food and clean ship. COURIER (Vulcan Carriers), January 30—Chairman Michael Galbraith, Deck Delegate Robert Coleman, Engine Delegate Rod­ ney Lewis, Steward Delegate Diego Hatch. Chairman told crewmembers second washer and dryer has been requested. Educational director urged members to upgrade at Piney Point. Deck delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegate. Crew gave thanks to steward department for job well doiie. GOLDEN MONARCH (Apex Marine), January 30^-Chairman Charles Parman, Secret^ Pernell Cook, Educational Director C. Boleware, Engine Delegate Jerome Dooms, Steward Delegate George Marano. Chairman reported captain extended thanks to entire crew for job well done. Secretary thanked crewmembers for upkeep of ship and stated he is looking forward to returning to ship after it is laid up in Korea. He urged members to donate to SPAD. Educational director advised niembers to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. Disputed OT reported by deck and engine delegates. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported by steward delegate. Chairman Parman stated crewmembers enjoyed "Scandal at Sea" video. Crew requested microwave oven. LNG TAURUS (ETC), January 30—Chairman Rohhynson Suy, Secret^ Francis Ostendarp, Educational Director Daniel Brass, Deck Delegate Larry Lehner. Chairman asked contracts depart­ ment for clarification of new man­ ning scales. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman reported "Scandal at Sea" video arrived on ship and encouraged entire crew to view it. Chairman announced new TV and microwave oven on order. Crew held a moment of silence in memory of departed members. SEA-LAND DEFENDER (SeaLand Service), January 23—Ghairman Robert Wagner, Secretary John Alamar, Educational Direc­ tor Balic Bazidar, Engine Delegate Donald Morrison, Steward Delegate Ignacio Fontelera. Chairman asked contracts department for copies of new con­ tract. Deck delegate reported dis­ puted OT. No beefs or disputed OT noted by engine or steward delegates. Crew requested shuttle buses in all ports outside U.S. to and from vessel. Crew also asked for new selection of shipboard movies. SEA-LAND EXPLORER (SeaLand Service), January 30—Chair­ man Jack Kingsley, Secretary William Burdette, Educational Director G. Pollard, Deck Delegate Godofred Milaho, En­ gine Delegate Steven Byerley. Chairman announced payoff upon ar­ rival in Long Beach, Calif. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew dis­ cussed system of returning movies to library after use in crew lounge. SEA-LAND HA WAII (Sea-Und Services), January 30—Chairman W. Lough, Secretary Paul Guz­ man, Educational Director Jose Del Rio, Deck Delegate Allen Run nion. Engine Delegate Kenneth Harder, Steward Delegate Glenn Taan. Chairman stated dryer in crew laundry to be repaired. Educa­ tional director reminded crewmem­ bers to upgrade at Lundeberg School. Treasurer reported $165 in ship's fund. Some disputed OT reported in deck department. No beefs or disputed OT noted by en­ gine or steward delegates. Chair­ man announced "Scandal at Sea" video available for crew to view. He also noted good response to new repair list. Steward gave spe­ cial waste cans to collect plastics to bosun for distribution to crew. Crew voted galley gang best ever and gave them special thanks. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. SEA-LAND INDEPENDENCE (Sea-Land Services), January 10— Chairman John Stout, Secretary Nancy Heyden, Educational Direc­ tor Cardel Dunn, Deck Delegate Mitch Santana, Engine Delegate Saeed Muflahi, Steward Delegate Carlton Griffin. Chairman ex­ tended special vote of thanks to steward department for holiday meals and recent barbecue. He noted most of crew is signing off after voyage and reminded them to clean rooms and leave keys with steward or bosun. He asked crew­ members to keep laundry room clean and be sure to secure all tape lockers while in port. Education^ director reminded members to donate to SPAD and upgrade at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward delegate thanked crewmembers for comply­ ing with new smoking rules and helping to keep mess hall and lounge clean. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. SEA-LAND QUALITY (Sea Land Service), January 23—Chairman Carmine Bova, Secretary T.J. Smith, Educational Director Hans Schlueter, Deck Delegate Tom Nealon, Engine Delegate Anthony Rotunda, Stewards Delegate Stephan Osovitz. Chairman an­ nounced new Seafarers LOGs received. Educational director ad­ vised members to upgrade skills at 'iney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang for job well done. Next port: Boston. SEA-LAND TRADER (Sea-Laijid Service), January 30—Chairman L.E. Watson, Secretary Jack Utz, iducational Director Jan Haidir. Chairman reminded members to eave room clean when signing off ship. Crew requested new TV and refrigerator. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked for Sea^and to provide mail service in all jorts of call and for contracts department to clarify day-off rules. Chairman said all crewmembers should have crew lounge key in their possession. Steward an­ nounced he will check linen condi­ tion. COVE ENDEA VOR (Cove Shipjing), February 6—Chairman C.C. »mith. Secretary Thomas Wyho, Educational Director Mark Grandahl. Deck Delegate T.J. Troupe, ingine Delegate V. Rewerts, Steward Delegate Mohamed Ahmed. Chairman announced ship LIBERTY SPIRIT (Liheny Maritime), February 6-^hairman R. Brown, Secretaiy N. Evans, Educational Director D. Swords, Deck Delegate B. Rohinson, En­ gine Delegate TJ. Mattews, Steward Delegate R. Gordon. Chairman announced payoff upon arrival in New Orleans. He will dis­ cuss time off after foreign voyages with patrolman during payoff. Treasurer listed $120 in movie fund. Deck delegate reported dis­ puted OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegates. Chairman reminded members signing off in New Or­ leans to strip bunks and clean rooms. LONG LINES(Transoceanic Cable), February 11—Chairman Pete Amper, Secretary Michael Bonsignore, Educational Director Eric Frederickson, Deck Delegate Joseph Cosentino, Engine Delegate Mark Francois, Steward Delegate Eric Mauley. Crew stated two new washers and dryers received in Portland, Ore. Secret^ discussed "Scandal at Sea" video with crewmembers. Treasurer reported $625 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crewmembers requested exercise room be expanded and library in crew lounge be in­ creased. Next port: Honolulu. MA YAGUEZ(Puerto Rico Marine), February 9—Chairman A. Caulder, Secretary J. Reddick, Deck Delegate Matt Arnold, Steward Delegate Lawrence Winfield. Crew asked contracts depart­ ment to clarify day-off and watch standing policies. Crewmembers gave vote of thanks to steward department for job well done. OMI SACRAMENTO (OMI), February 6—Chairman Ray Gorju, Secretary Mathew Scott, Educational Director Robert Caldwell, Deck Delegate William Steele. Chairman announced ship going into Mobile, Ala. shipyard upon arrival. He noted new chairs for crew lounge arrived and urged members to clean rooms before signing off ship. Educational direc­ tor encouraged members to attend Paul Hall Center to upgrade skills. He reminded crew the facilities are second to none for merchant mariners. Treasurer announced $260 in ship's fiind. Deck and en­ gine delegates reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by steward delegate. Bosun stated he will check with patrolman concerning renewal of clinic cards and drug testing during dry dock period. Crewmembers ;ave special recognition to mem>ers of galley gang for outstanding Christmas meal. Crew commended steward department members Steward/Baker Scott, Chief Cook Jack Freeman and SA Catherine Viamahon for having true holiday spirit and doing an excellent job. OVERSEAS HARRIETTE Maritime Overseas), February 6— Chairman Peter Victor, Secretary J. Quinn, Educational Director D. Harino, Deck Delegate Downey Shannon, Engine Delegate Ar­ mando Medina, Steward Delegate Rudolph Xatruch. Chairman reported smooth voyage and 10 days in Russia enjoyed by all. He noted ship may lay up in New Oreans for two weeks. Educational director urged members to upgrade skills at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crewmem­ bers requested copies of new con­ tract. Crew gave vote of^anks to steward department for job well done. Next port: Callao, Peru. OVERSEAS JUNEAU (Maritime Overseas), February 22—Chair­ man Jeffery Kass, Secretary Scott Opsahl, Educational Director C. Montoya, Deck Delegate Steven Marwin, Engine Delegate Jimmy Soto, Steward Delegate Ahmed Nasser. Chairman reported new furniture to arrive while vessel is in dry dock. He said he's awaiting response from contracts department concerning day-off policy and ad­ vised members to keep lounge neat and to clean rooms when signing off. Educational director urged , members to upgrade as often as possible and announced applica­ tions are available. He advised 23 iv Delegate William Murphy, En­ gine Delegate Earl Erhert. Chair­ man announced payoff upon arrival in port. Educational director urged members to read Seafarers LOG to keep informed and upgrade at Piney Point. Deck delegate asked contracts department for clarifica­ tion of rules regarading AB on wheel duty. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegates. Entire crew extended vote of appreciation and thanks to galley gang. Next port: Los An­ geles. SEA-LAND HAWAII (Sea-Land Service), February 6—Chairman W. Lough, Secretary D. Spangler, Deck Delegate A. Runnion, Steward Delegate Glenri Taan. Chairman reported electrician .. 'i:, Galley Crew Delivers Delicious Tuna 'i- <: : During a stopover on the tropical island of Guam, crewmembers aboard the Sea-LandNavigator had the opportunity to purchase fresh fish. Above is a photo of the galley gang with their beautifully prepared tuna. From left are Chief Cook G. Salle, Chief Steward J. Smith and Steward Assistant I. Monasser. members to read Seafarers LOG. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew extended special vote of thanks to galley gang for job well done. Next port: Cherry Point, Wash. OVERSEAS PHILADELPHIA (Maritime Overseas), February 7— Chairman Tim Olvany, Secretary D. Brown, Educational Director R. Kurpecski. Chairman noted ice machine in crew area needs repair. He announced payoff in Florida. Secretary encouraged members to read Seafarers LOG. Educational director advised crewmembers to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer reported $50 in ships fiind. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed asking company to install smoking ounge. Crew thanked steward department for job well done and extended special vote of thanks to GSU Pedro Alicea for making ship a clean home for crewmem­ bers. One moment of silence ob­ served for departed union brothers and sisters. Crew thanked contracts department for improvements in medical services for members and dependants. Next port: Corpus Cl^sti, Texas. RALEIGH BAY (Sea Land Ser­ vice), February 27—Chairman H. Knox, Secretary J. Speller, Educa­ tional Director David Dukehart. Chairman reminded members to donate to SPAD. Educational direc­ tor urged members to upgrade skills at Lundeberg School. No >eefs or disputed OT reported. ?OVE/? (Vulcan Carriers), February 6—Chairman Ray Todd, Secretary H. Manning, Education­ al Director Charles Allen. Secretary advised members to fol­ low no smoking rule in mess hall and crew lounge. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Crew discussed use of washers in laundry room. SEA-LAND ENDURANCE (SeaLand Service), February 14Chairman T. Trehern, Secretary Ruehin Gallegulllos, Deck trying to repair crew dryer. He asked crewmembers to look out for one another. Treasurer reported $165 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Ciew an­ nounced video concerning runaway-flag ships viewed by all. Crew discussed building a picnic table. Next port: Honolulu. SEA-LAND KODIAK(Sea-Umd Service), February 14—Chairman Alan Lautermilch, Secretary M. Morgan, Engine Delegate BJionda Koski, Steward Delegate Ronald Dewitt Chairman advised crew to take care when walking from ship to gate during cargo operation. Crew requested different brand of coffee On ship. All delegates reported coffee tastes bad. No brofs or disputed OT reported. SEA-LAND LIBERA TOR (SeaLand Service), February 6—Chair­ man W. WhitsitL Secretary G. Thomas, Educational Director D. ' Dean. Educational director recom­ mended members take advantage of Lundeberg School courses. Deck delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by steward or engine delegates. Crewmembers extended vote of thanks to galley gang for job well done. Crew requested second washer and dryer. Next port: Oakland, Calif. SEA-LAND PATRIOT(Sea-Land Service), February 26—Chairman R. Garcia, Secretary J. Russell, Deck Delegate Steve Kastel, En­ gine Delegate Joseph Vain, Steward Delegate Jacob Dusich. Chairman and crewmembers dis­ cussed "Scandal at Sea" video. Educational director noted schedule of classes at Piney Point posted. He urged members to donate to SPAD. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Chairman an­ nounced response to questions sent to contracts department posted. Steward delegate asked members to keep recreation room clean and not to put empty coffee pots on Continued on page 24 •. •. -•v/ */.;•.,-It • �24 Ships Digest Continued from page 23 burners. Crew requested clarifica­ tion of payoff rules from contracts department. They also gave vote of thanks to steward department and Chief Cook John Bennett for ex­ cellent meals. Next port; Long Beach, Calif. I • APRIL 1994 SEAFARERS LOG SEA-LAND EMPRESS (Sea-. Land Service), Fehruaiy^ 12— Chairman Ray Ramirez, Secreiarj G. Bryant Jr., Educational Direc­ tor A. Bell, Deck Delegate Garx ^alker. Engine Delegate Hatchel, Steward Delegate Joel Crow. Chairman announced ship leaving Kobe, Japan. Deck and stewai^ delegates reported dis­ pute OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported hy engine delegate. Chmrman stated smooth sailing with job well done hy entire crew and good cooking hy galley gang. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. • SEA-LAND RELIANCE (SciLand Serviced February 1"— Chairman Kckert Secretary G. Sivlev. Educatjon^ Director Jar .AmiBft. IVck J. Casngay OusimiR arsraoooced pav'cjY in Tacomsia. Was& and asired crewsBfitsiess X'' cjem roccns "cax^ <^. Be dianked iircce cse« ?^ty."^^*ei£ done Deck at^TSed ais:•pmed OT. Vc iJeecs et OT dcu^acs. Osr* ncoid; S.'witntfrs I.iX'fe wc»?*<syi Osp* ihati.'ed stcwa.'d dena-Jmeic Mr gwa; meais SEA-LAND SPmiT':<isi^iJma Meeting Time Aboard the Bobo Taking part in a recent union meeting aboard the 2ndLt. John Paul Bobo in the port of Panama City, Fla. are (from left) QMED Wayne Gonsaives, bosun Red Wilson, QMED Joe Cipullo, Chief Electrician Charles Betz and Chief Steward Hans Schmuck. Service), February 14—Chairman Howard Gibbs. Steward Delegate A. Delaney, Educational Director Austin Horn, Deck Delegate Evan Bradley. Engine Delegate D. Locsin. Steward Delegate S. Hsien. Chainnan reported shower repairs complete. He stressed im­ portance of contributing to SPAD. Educational director urged mem­ bers u(>grade at Paul Hall Cen­ ter No beets *.>r disputed OT reported. SEA-LAND TACOMA (SeaLand Serv ice). Ed>ruajr> 2—Chair­ man Jwe^ .\rtis. Secretary H. Lively. Educational Director iieorge .Ackley. Engitw Delegate W. Weaver. Steward Delegate Ftaoik Martin. Chainnan noted 7ayv>d: upon arrival in Tacoma, Wash, He reported new watch systena now in effect. Secretary asked vMJteficts department to clarify use of gkwes in galley. Educational dKWtor ask)^ for donation to Seanun's Church in New York for books sent kv vessel. He reminded members to upgrade at Limdeberg School. Deck delegate reported dis­ puted OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegates. "Ciew discussed starting movie libraiy and building book­ shelf for new books. Crewmembers gave vote of thanks to steward department. as usual. Chairman announced cap­ tain approved new VCR for ship. Many votes of thanks given to gal­ ley gang for great food preparation. Special thanks extended to OS Eddie Gofich for keeping un­ licensed areas super clean. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. SEALIFT CARIBBEAN (IMC), February 27—Chainnan Jerry Borucki, Secretary Dorothy Takahashi, Educational Director Ray Prin. Deck Delegate Eric Lund. Engine Delegate J. Kissanis, Stev?ard Delegate Beverly Harris. Secretary noted crew needs new dryer in crew laundry and new mattresses. He thanked deck department for Job well done. Deck delegate reported beef. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegates. Crew requested new no-skid pads in gal­ ley. Next port: Charleston, S.C. SEALIFT INDIAN OCEAN (IMC), February 6—Chairman Fred Collins, Secretary Franz Winiker, Engine Delegate A. Cook, Steward Delegate Gloria Gottschlich. Chairman announced microwave oven needs repair or re­ placement. He added very good work being done by entire crew aboard vessel. Educational director urged members to view education­ al films and to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew reported Seafarers LOGs received. Crew requested new belt for dryer. Next port: Sin­ gapore. SEA-LAND VOYAGER (SeaLand Service), February 23Chairman J. Lundborg, Secretary L. Ligbtfoot, Educational Director B. Landis, Engine Delegate T. Ab- STONEWALL JACKSON dulla. Steward Delegate D. (Waterman Steamship), February Flanker. Chairman thanked crew3—Chairman John McDonald, members for working hard during Secretary T. Hanson, Educational entire trip. Secretary informed Director Frank Quebedeaux, crew of new menu items. Educa­ Deck Delegate Robert Cbristentional director advised all crewsen. Engine Delegate W. Parrisb, members to upgrade at Piney Point Steward Delegate A. Bell. Chair­ and support union by donating to man announced payoff in New Or­ SPAD. Deck delegate reported dis­ leans. Secretary thanked crew for puted OT; No beefs or disputed OT job well done. Treasurer reported reported by engine or steward $480 in movie fund. No beefs or delegates. Crew stated Seafarers disputed OT reported. Crew stated LOGs not received in Yokohama Seafarers LOGs and "Scandal at Sea" video received. Crew re­ quested additional chairs in mess hall. Chairman urged members to remove clothing from washers and dryers promptly and to be careful when closing doors. WESTWARD VENTURE (InterOcean Management), February 1— Chairman T. M. Murphy, Secretary M. Gramer, ^ucational Director Lorance Pence, Deck Delegate Duffy Joyce, Steward Delegate H. Bubaker. Chairman discussed Seafarers LOG article ex­ plaining new maritime policy in Congress. Educational director reminded members to upgrade at Lundeberg School and donate to SPAD to maintain strong maritime industry. No beefs or disputed OT reported. (Chairman noted company plans to repair crew lounge furniture and rooms during shipyard stay. Crew thanked steward department for job well done. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. DSNS WILKES (Bay Ship Management), February 6-—Chair­ man James Souci, Secretary Vicki Holloway, Educational Director Eric Sutton, Deck Delegate Jonatbon Davis, Engine Delegate Jeffrey Willis, Steward Delegate Donald Mann. Chairman thai^ed crewmembers for separating trash properly. Education^ director advis^ members to upgrade skills at Piney Point and submit applications early. Treasurer reported $363 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew commended galley gang on great food and discussed haviiig TV on during meal hours. Bosun noted coasters to be put on bottom of chair legs in mess haU to prevent sliding during rough weather. Chairman announced com­ pany purchasing new washer and dryer for crew laundry. Crew re­ quested tile throughout vessel be replaced and new table in mess hall be purchased. Crewmembers ob­ served moment of silence in memoiy of departed union brothers and sisters. Know Your Rights i% ; -.V -^S-;::-, #?i® :t; v%i*' '«SSiH t;;;,i'Sf X- FINANCIAL REPORTS. The constitution of the SIU At­ lantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership's money and union finances. The constitution re­ quires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretarytreasurer. A yearly finance com­ mittee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fiilly their find­ ings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District are administered in accordance with the provisions oif various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trus­ tees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of die trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member's shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusive­ ly by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts be­ tween the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by cer­ tified mail, return receipt re­ quested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as rcfened to are available to mem­ bers at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat Mem­ bers should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in die proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she idiould contact the nearest SIU port agent EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any ar­ ticle serving the political pur­ poses of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing ar­ ticles deemed harmful to the union or its collective member­ ship. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which con­ sists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no cir­ cumstances should any member pay any money for any reason un­ less he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made wiffiout supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a pay­ ment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITl/TIONAL kiGHTS AND OBLIGA­ TIONS. Copies of the SIU con­ stitution are available in all union halls. AU members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify head­ quarters. men and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connec­ tion with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above im­ proper conduct, the membeir should notify the Seafarers Inter­ national Union or SPAD by cer­ tified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A mem­ ber should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. EQUAL RIGHTS. All mem­ bers are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clear­ ly set forth in the SIU constitu­ tion and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is en­ titled, the member should notify If at any time a member feels union headquarters. that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she SEAFARERS POLITICAL has been denied the constitution­ ACTIVITY DONATION — al right of access to union records SPAD. SPAD is a separate or information, the member segregated fund. Its proceeds are should immediately notify SIU used to further its objects and President Michael Sacco at head­ purposes including, but not quarters by certified mail, limited to, furthering the politi­ return receipt requested. The cal, social and economic inter­ address is: ests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of Michael Sacco, President the American merchant marine Seafarers International Union with improved employment op­ 5201 Auth Way portunities for seamen and boatCamp Springs, MD 20746. ma �••••ly APRIL 1994 SEAFARERS LOG 25 ^ t .'V -iC-S-t Umdebwg Si^wol Revises Rec^ tor Chlel CoiHcs The Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education recently announced plans to im­ plement an all-new chief cook upgrading program, beginning with a pilot course April 18 through June 26. "After this pilot program, the entire course will be re-evaluated and then started again on a per­ manent basis," said Lundeberg School Culinary Director Don Nolan. "The course has been to­ tally revised in order to maximize the learning opportunity for each student. As part of that revision, the course no longer will be open- ended." Twelve Seafarers will take part in the pilot course, although future classes may have twice as many upgraders, Nolan said. (At press time, there were a few spaces available in the pilot course.) Galley gang members who want to apply for the pilot or later courses (dates to be announced) should complete and mail the coupon on page 27 of this issue of the Seafarers LOG, or they inay contact their port agent or ^ Lundeberg School for more infor­ mation. Upgraders in the chief cook course will alternate weekly be­ tween the Lundeberg School's new lecture/demonstration galley and the production galley. The lessons are designed so that each depends in part on the knowledge and skills acquired in the previous lesson. Some of the topics to be covered include basic cooking methods, seasoning and flavor­ ing, recipe and menu planning, stock, sauces and soups, meat and game, poultry, seafood, starches, vegetables, breakfast and dairy, salad, sandwiches and hors d'oeuvres. Practical testing and weekly quizzes also will be part of the curriculum. Other topics integrated during the entire 12-week period are sanitati i nutrition, safety, tools and e / ipment, food-service math, weights and measures, in­ ventory control and computer lab. Students are expected to bring their own knives. Recommended knives are: an 8-inch chefs knife, a 6-inch flexible boning knife, a 3-inch paring knife and a vegetable peeler. SAB Approves Shipping Rui^ Changes "During the specific period oj D.2. which reads: "Conditions in Continued from page 21 employment, their tours of dut' the industry shall be continuously port registered relative to his shall be approximately four (4, monitored, and six (6) months return to the vessel. He must months on and two(2) months off. after I. and 2. above are in­ return to the vessel at the comple­ Work schedules may be modified stituted, the Seafarers Appeals tion of his relief by re-claiming subject to the vessel's operationa Board shall determine whether his job from the hiring hall ship­ necessities, and as mutually the procedures shall continue or Upgraders in the new chief cook program will do extensive training in ping board no later tMn the day agreed to between the Union anc' be terminated." the Paul Hall Center's modern lecture/demonstration galley (above). prior to the vessel's arrival in the Company. Pursuant to in­ port. If the relief period ends and dustry practices, seamen covered the ship is at a port other than at by this subsection (q) leaving a the port where the seaman was vessel for medical reasons shaL relieved, he shall be cleared for not be qualified to return to the re-shipment at the port where vessel when declared "Fit for registered. When such jobs are Duty." 29 Die In Runaway-Flag the deaths of 47 people. reclaimed, the Dispatcher shal "Seamen receiving Main­ Collision In Istanbul In a 232-page report, an inter-agency task force provide the Port Agent where the tenance and Cure benefits during concluded there was no evidence suggesting that vessel is located and the Man­ their relief shall forfeit the right An explosive collision between two Greekpower Office with the following to return to the vessel under this owned, Cyprus-flagged vessels on March 14 in anyone consciously disregarded a substantial and information: Name, rating, social Trip Relief procedure. Istanbul's Bosphorus Strait resulted in the deaths of unjustifiable risk which caused a loss of human life. security number, registration 29 crewmembers and left oil slicks up to 25 miles The task force also found that no state law was "Except as specifically card number and seniority clas­ provided in this subsection (r), long which caused environmental and wildlife violated when the barges pushed by the Mauvilla rammed the bridge at the bayou minutes before the sification of the permanent the provisions applicable to the damage. train plunged into the muddy waters. rating. Neither ship had a pilot on board when the dry permanent ratings specified in The National Transportation Safety Board is "On vessels arriving on a Rule 12 (a) above shall also be cargo vessel Ship Broker and the tanker Nassia weekend, jobs must be reclaimed applicable to seamen specified in crashed at the Black Sea entrance to one of the continuing its investigation and will issue a by the permanent rating no later this subsection (r). world's busiest shipping lanes, according to pub­ separate report on the derailment this summer. than the Friday preceding the lished reports. "(s) It will be incumbent upon 4 4 ^ vessel's arrival in port. If Friday the Company, when ordering re­ The Nassia spilled an unspecified amount of the is a recognized holiday in the port placements, to notify the Man­ 98,500 tons of crude oil that it was transporting where registered, the job must be power Pool Coordinator when from Russia to Italy. The vessel, owned by Lemar SlU-Crewed Empire State reclaimed on the preceding seamen are leaving and rejoining Shipping, reportedly sustained major damage from Finishes Somalia Pullout Thursday. Seamen failing to com­ their vessels pursuant to Rule the massive fire which erupted upon impact. The SlU-crewed Empire State left the port of A much smaller fire broke out on the Ship Mogadishu on March 24, carrying American troops ply with the reship procedures 12." shall forfeit their right of reclaim Add new language 8. Dis­ Broker, which is owned by Seabase Shipping, Ltd and marking the end of 15 months of operation in Sixteen crewmembers (three Greeks and 13 Somalia by the U.S. Military Sealift Command and shall register pursuant to the cipline, B.2. to read as follows: provisions specified in Rule 2, '2. The hearing committee shall Filipinos) were rescued from the Nassia, while five (MSG). Shipping Procedures." From the start of relief efforts in the war-ravaged prepare a written specification of (three Maldivens and two Greeks) were saved from Add new language 5. charges and notice of hearing, the Ship Broker. African nation. Seafarers played an active and im­ This was the 40th shipping accident in the Bos­ portant role. SlU-crewed military prepositioning Preferences and Priorities, I3(n), which shall be sent to the subject to read as follows: "(n) Per­ seaman by certified mail, ad­ phorus area since 1960. vessels from Diego Garcia sailed across the Indian manent ratings leaving a vessel dressed to his last known Ocean to Somalia days before the first Marines si. sL for medical reasons shall be residence. Such notice shall pro­ landed on Dec. 9,1992. qualified under the Rules to vide at least two (2) weeks' time At the height of the intervention in December rejoin the same vessel after he has for the seaman to prepare his American Maritime Officers 1992,17 SlU-crewed vessels were involved in the acquired a "Fit for Duty Status, defense and shall give the seaman Withdraws from National MEBA relief effort. provided that he registers for up to one (I) week before the SlU-crewed ships delivered trucks, tractors, The American Maritime Officers (AMO) on employment within forty-eight hearing date to request a change March 20 formally withdrew from the National troops, ready-to-eat meals, medical supplies and (48) hours, excluding Saturdays, of date or location of such hear­ Marine Engineers Beneficial Association (MEB A). other materiel. They also provided food and am­ Sundays and Holidays, after ing. The hearing committee shall Such a withdrawal from National MEBA had munition for American troops. receiving his "Fit for Duty. initially locate the hearing at the been authorized by AMO members in a two-month, In all, nearly a million tons of military cargo Time off pursuant to this Union hiring hall closest to the unionwide secret ballot referendum that ended were deployed. provision shall not be less than subject seaman's last known February 15. The members voted almost unani­ fifteen (15) days nor exceed one residence. Pending the hearing, mously to permit AMO President Michael McKay *1. 4- *1. hundred twenty (120) days. The the seaman may register and ship and the union's executive board to sever ties with four (4) month employment in accord with these Rules and in National MEBA if the officials found such action Braer's Owners, Captain period shall be reduced by the his current seniority, except that necessary to protect AMO jobs, contracts and Will Not Be Prosecuted number of days of medical the charged seaman shall not be autonomy, the AMO said in a statement released Scottish authorities last month announced that relief." permitted to ship to the charging last month. the American owners and Greek captain of the The sixty (60) day relief period Company's vessels until the hear­ McKay later said that this action "will in no way Braer, the runaway-flag ship that ran aground on provided for in Rule 13 (a) may ings have been concluded. alter AMO's relationships with other unions at sea the Shetland Islands and spilled almost 85,000 tons be extended for medical reasons 'All efforts will be made by the or ashore or change AMO's essential mission of oil into the North Sea in January 1993, will not according to the above. Board for hearings conducted sustained opportunity for AMO members in foreign be prosecuted. Add new language 5. under this section to be completed and domestic trades." The reasoning for the decision, based on infor­ Preferences and Priorities, in an expeditious manner." mation supplied by authorities in the Shetland Is­ I3(r),(s), to read as follows: "(r) Add new language in 10. Spe­ 4. J. J. lands to the Crown Office in Edinburgh, was not All seamen employed aboard cial or Emergency Provisions, given. The final report on the investigation into the Tanker class vessels above the J.I., to read as follows: "D. 1. y|o Criminal Charges disaster will be released either this month or next entry level, excluding such Seamen who have retired from Found In Amtrak Disaster month. ratings as specified in subsection the industry shall be permitted to The Braer was owned by Bergvall & Hudner (a) (Aove, and who possess Class compete for employment aboard A six-month investigation by the state of and managed by B & H Shipmanagement Co., both "A" or "B" employment seniority, contracted vessels designated by Alabama into the September derailment of of Stamford, Conn. The Liberian-flagged vessel shall be permitted to remain the Seafarers Appeals Board, Amtrak's Sunset Limited has concli^d and found lad a Greek Captain (Alexandres Gelis) and Greek, aboard a specific vessel for a yrovided they can pass the physi­ no criminal wrongdoing by any of the tugboat crew­ Filipino and Pakistani crewmembers, none of members involved. The tug Mauvilh struck a period of time not to exceed six­ cal examination." whom was seriously injured. It was chartered by teen (16) months, subject to the Delete last paragraph in 10. jridge in Big Bayou Canot outside of Mobile, Ala., Canada Ultramar Ltd., a Canadian oil group. vessel's operational necessity. Special or Emergency Provisions, causing the derailment of the passenger train and ''IL: i, ; • • i',: >»• . \-ip' -r 'Jjyj il-'' Ijp. • • / "-'Vt;/;'',•• . fj •• • ..i. • •S. • • X..-- •-"S "'h/- �Upgraders Lifeboat—With Instmctor Jim Brown (left) are January 12 upgrading graduates of the lifeboat class (from left) William Wynn, To-Nu Wallace, David Gregory and Martin Josephson Jr. Trainee Lifeboat Class 520—Graduating from trainee lifeboat class 520 are (from left, kneeling) Jonathan Owen, SImone Solomon, Kathryn Rivera, Sonia Felix, Brett Randall, Steven WItkowskI, Willie Jones Jr., Kurt Jacobsen, (standing) Daniel Rodriguez, John Bocchlchio, Labarron Johnson, Frank Adam Cook, Eddie Williams, Durrlell Williams, Ben Cusic (Instructor), Eric Martinez, Toderick McClary, Mark McKlnney, Joseph GrandlnettI, Marlon Tate, Christopher Coston and Eric Williams. / Marine Electronics Technician I—^The February 17 graduates of the marine electronics technician course are (from left, seated) Richard Buchanan, Marsha Dawson and Herman Manzer. Standing Is Instructor Russ Levin. Trainee Lifeboat Class 521—Graduating from trainee lifeboat class 521 are (from left, kneeling) Brian Lu, William Concldlne, Andrea Bryant, James Kelly Jr., Ben CusIc (Instructor), (second row) William Limited License—Completing the limited license course on Mohica Jr., Theron Bowen, Javier Gonzalez, Roy Frett Jr., (third row) Steven Thomas, Bryan Powell, Thpmas February 24 are (from left) James R. GIbb, Joseph M. Kane, Harry Christopher Johnson, Michael McCluskey, Rolando Cortez Jr., Christopher Nix and DIonce Bright. McGahan, Albert Cropek and Ron RaykowskI (Instructor). -• ^i^.:-' . ^U^vv Able Bodied Seaman—Certificates of completion were received by the March 8 class of upgraders. They are (from left, kneeling) Adam TaluccI, Roderick Hall, Fred Valgneur John CIncotta, Abraham Dalf, Antonio Gonzales, (second row) Casey Taylor (Instructor)Robert Darley, William Soto Jr., Chris Cobb, Darin Eastridge, Scott Hobbs, Marls Sepeiis, Timothy Vota, (third row) Robert Grove, Andr§ Frazler, Mark Weaver, Kenneth Frederick, Kenneth Boone, Alan Day, Timothy Duggan, Chris Perrine and Joe Gustafson. Advanced Firefighting—Upgrading members completing the adanced flreflghtIng course are (from left, first row) Byran Cummlngs (Instructor), David Rush Ingram, Patrick Cross, Maria Photiou, William Jarvl, Mark Domlnlak, (second row) Harry McGahan, Christian Wemer, John Onr, Phillip McKenzle, Damlan Krowlckl and John Smith (Instructor). : V?;- /: /- ••/ - V Diesel Engine—Receiving certification In diesel engine technology are (from left, seated) Greg Samatelakys, Jos6 A. Quinones, Geoffrey P. Denesse, (second row) Ralph Gosnell, Bradley K. Twiford, William J. Cariln, Pompey B. Alegado, J.C. WIegrnan (Instruc­ tor), Cellna Butler and John Schneider. �•- ' h'. • • A SEAFARBKSIM LUKDEBERG SCHm. 1994 UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE HecertiflcaCen Programs The following is the course schedule for classes beginning between May and September 1994 at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship located at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. All programs are geared to improve job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. The course schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the nation's security. Course Check-In jPate Completion Date Able Seaman May 20 Jnly 15 September 9 Julyl August 26 October 21 Course Check-In Date Completion Date Bosun Recertification October 3 November 7 Steward Recertification July 5 August S Course Check-In Date Completion Date Assistant Cook, Cook and Baker All open-ended (contact admissions office for starting dates) Chief Cook, Chief Steward All open-ended (contact admissions office for starting dates) JL All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. Bridge Management (Shiphandlifig) May 6 July 29 May20 August 12 Radar Certifi(»tion May 20 June 17 July 22 August 19 September 16 May 27 June 24 July 29 August 26 September 23 July 1 September 9 August 12 October 21 JJmited License, Part 1 June 20 September 26 July 1 October 7 Limited License, Part 2 Julys July 15 Ljhnited License, Part 3 May 9 July 18 May 20 July 29 •» : ' I'v'"- • •• Celestial Navigation 27 Engine Upgrading Course Course ' • Check-In Date Completion Date All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. QMED - Any Rating August 1 October 21 FiremanAVatertender and OUCr September 12 October 21 Diesel Engine Technology June 27 July 22 Refrigeration Maint. & Operations August! September Si- Piimproom Maint. & Operations September 5 October 14 Hydraulics June 20 July 15 Marine Electrical Maintenance July 5 August26 Crane Maintenance September 12 October 21 . •• : " • ^ 1994Mult aiucatlen Schedule The foUowing courses are available through the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School. Please contact the admissions office for enrollment information. Safety Specialty Courses Course Check-In Date Completion Date Oil Spill Prevention and (Containment) June 17 Julyl August 26 Julys September^ Lifeboatman May 6 May 20 June 17 July 15 August 12 August 26 September 9 May 20 June 3 Julyl July 29 August 26 September 9 September 23 Basic/Advanced Fire Fighting Julys September 16 July 22 September 30 Sealift Operations & Maintenance May 9 July 11 September 5 June 3 August 5 September 30 "i" A, •A* . w June 24 (Middle) (RrM) (Last) Address. (Slreet) (Zip Code) (State) (City) Telephone _L Date of Birth. L (AieaCZode) (Month/Day/Year) Deep Sea Member [U Inland Waters Member• Lakes Member CI Check-In Date Completion Date GED Preparation 12 weeks - open-ended admission Adult Basic Education (ABE) 6 weeks - open-ended admission g; English as a Second Language (ESL) 6 weeks - open-ended admission Developmental Studies May 2 June 27 July 11 August 22 Septembers May 6 June 30 July 15 August 26 September 9 Session m September 12 November 4 Primary language spoken UPGRADING APPUCATWH Name Course VimiSm With this application, COPIES of your discharges must submitted showing suffi­ cient time to qualify yourself for the course(s) requested. You also must submit a COPY of each of the following: the first page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, your clinic card and the front and back of your z-card as well as your Lundeberg Scltool identification card listing die course(s) you have taken and com­ pleted The Admissions Office WILL NOT schedule you until all of the above are received END BEGIN DATE DATE COURSE ..-•I If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Book# Social Security#. . Department Seniority U.S. Citizen: •Yes • No Home Port. Rating:. LAST VESSEL: Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held Date On: Date Off:. :S • • .DATE. Are you a graduate of the SHLSS trainee program? • Ves DNO SIGNATURE. If yes, class# Have you attended any SHLSS upgrading courses? • Ves DNO Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. If yes, course(s) taken. Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? dVes CINO Firefighting: [H Yes Id No CPRrldYcs / CDNO / ' RETURN COMPLETED APPLICATION TO: Lundeberg Upgrading Center; P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674. 4/94 / .i rk • k '--V > �SE4mMtEttS SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORTS SlU Pacific District Pension Plan — Page 19 SlU Pacific District Supplemental Benefits Funds, Inc. April 1994 Volume 56, Number 4 — Page 20 Baseball and the Sea Swell in the Letter Family In the Leiter family, there are a phone call. I also try to listen to two very distinct and true loves— games on the radio depending on the sea and baseball. where the ship is sailing." John and Karl Leiter fol Karl, who is sailing as an oiler lowed their father, Alexander, to aboard the SS Independence, dis sea to become second generation covered through an interview for Seafarers and fourth generation this article that Mark had been merchantjnariners. A1 and Mark released by the Detroit Tigers anc Leiter, their brothers, picked up signed by the California Angels on their father's love of basebal "I knew that he had been released and will be pitching in the major but I had no idea that he was al leagues again this year. Another ready signed by another team, member of the clan, Kurt, sailed Karl said in a telephone conversa­ with the SIU during the Persian tion from Hawaii. "So you see Gulf war after his baseball career how I sometimes get the lates ended in the minor leagues. news." John and Karl have found uni­ Because he lives in Hawaii, he que ways at sea to keep up with noted newspapers are his primary their ball-playing brothers. source for information. "I try to sail on coastwise ves­ John recalled that his father, sels;" John told a reporter for the who passed away in 1988, was a Seafarers LOG. "That way, I'm devoted family man whose life on in a port every two to three days the beach revolved around his and can read a newspaper or make family and the game of baseball. "We had a batting cage on the property," said John, who began his engine department career in A photo from the November 12, 1965 Seafarers LOG shows Bosun Alexander Leiter (left) bringing his 1983 as a graduate of the sons John, Karl and Eric to the New York hall. John and Karl sail today in the engine department. Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School. "All of us (including a his way up the hawsepipe and be­ sixth brother, Eric) went to came a mate in 1966, joining the )aseball camp. All of us played Masters, Mates and Pilots. After the war, he was on the varsity ball in high school. In fact, Karl was my catcher when I Coe Victory in Liverpool, England where he met his wife to pitched." According to a former ship^ )e, Maria. According to John, mate, Alexander Leiter was they fell in love and he brought k^nown as a pretty good ball ler back to the States. She already )layer. Angus "Red" Campbell, was used to dealing with men retired SIU vice president, sailed going to sea, as her father and with the elder Leiter on Bull grandfather sailed in the British ines vessels. "He always en- merchant marines. Although Alexander sailed in oyed baseball whether he was he deck department, he did not jlaying it, watching it or discuss­ encourage his children to do the ing it," Campbell said. same. Both John and Karl, who Alexander began his seafaring A rain delay in Philadelphia allows oined the SIU in 1989 after a stint Al and John to talk before a World career as a deckhand with the SIU in the Navy, followed his advice Series game. during World War II. He worked and went to work in the engine department. When dad did not have the sons practicing baseball, they were attending games in New York, Philadelphia and Boston, ohn revealed that despite the fact both Mark and Al wore Yankee pinstripes at one time, the family Jofin visits with his brother Mark prior to a game in Detroit. grew up as Mets fans. Last year, the Leiters got the thrill of seeing Al not only play in the World Series (major league baseball's championship), but The National Center for non-Custodial father, Harry also win one of the games for the Missing and Exploited Edwin Lewis, September 10, champion Toronto Blue Jays. Children has asked the 1993, Lacie Anne is now al­ "I didn't get to see him pitch Seafarers International Union most a year old. An FBI war­ Part of the Leiter clan gather for brother Al's wedding. From the left that game in person, but I did to assist them in locating Lacie rant has been issued in his are Kurt, Al, sister Alexia, John and Mark. watch it on television," John ad­ Anne Lewis. name for unlawful flight to Only six months of age avoid prosecution. mitted. "I did get to attend the when she was abducted by her series opener in Philadelphia At the time of her disap­ ;game 3), however." pearance from West Jordan, Utah, the brown-eyed, light This year, the Leiters will have brown-haired baby was 23 in­ to watch for scores from both ches tall and weighed 17 sides of the continent. Al is expounds. She has pierced ears, bected to be the fifth starter in and her brown eyes have blue "oronto's pitching rotation, around the edges. while Mark should be a relief Anyone having information bitcher and spot starter for on the whereabouts of Lacie California, which is based in Anne Lewis should contact the Anaheim. As John quickly National Center for Missing and bointed out, both are active mem­ Exploited Children at (800) 843bers of the baseball players union. 5678 or the Missing Persons Meanwhile, John is looking Unit of the West Jordan (Utah) brward to an addition to his team, Police Department at (801) 265During his time as an SIU patrolman, John (left) had a chance to see tie and his wife, Karen, are exLacie Anne Lewis 4056. his brother Karl aboard the Puerto Rico Marine vessel Humacao. becting a child later this year. Help Locate This Mis^ng Child rgit'^iiiWTWi ' • ' - I" Iffy,;: Ar •. '- rH',::'.-- •,}l - J' V ' V:.-;.!' � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 1990-1999 Description An account of the resource Volumes LII-LXI Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993; Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource April 1994 Description An account of the resource Headlines: COMMERCE DEPT. OFFERS AID PACKAGE AFTER NEW ENGLAND FISHERMEN PROTEST E.N. BISSO CREWS VOTE SIU BY 2-1 FIRED CAPT. RETURNS TO WORK AFTER MTD PROTESTS DISMISSAL HOUSE TAKES UP WATERWAYS SAFETY BILL CLEAN-UP EFFORTS CONTINUE ALONG SAN JUAN BEACHES ADMINISTRATION'S MARITIME PLAN BECOMES BILL SHIPBUILDING TALKS COME UNDONE CONGRESS, LABOR VOICE SUPPORT FOR REVITALIZATION SEVERE ICE BUILDUP STALLS START OF '94 LAKES SEASON CONGRESS FUNDS ICE CUTTER FOR OPERATIONS THROUGH YEAR 'LAST CONVOY' TO RENDEZVOUS IN NORMANDY 'RED' RECALLS D-DAY SCENE NEWLY ISSUED BENZENE CARDS CLARIFY RENEWAL DATES HOUSE PANEL CALLS ON EMPLOYERS TO PROVIDE HEALTH CARE BENEFITS BOSUN RETIRES AFTER 50 YEARS AT SEA SEAFARERS AND FAMILIES CAN VACATAION AT PINEY POINT MEMBERS OF NEWEST RECERTIFIED STEWARD CLASS SEIZE THEIR CHANCE TO UPGRADE CULINARY SKILLS PAUL HALL CENTER STRESSES HEALTHY MENUS PAUL HALL CENTER AUGMENTS RIVERBOAT SAFETY TRAINING SEAFARERS TOUT EMPRESS II AS BOON TO UPGRADING CLASSES KEY MARITIME ISSUES DISCUSSED AT UNION MEETING JACKSONVILLE PREPOSITIONING SHIP'S CREW READY AT A MOMENT'S NOTICE STEADY WORK, GOOD MORALE CHARACTERIZE BROOKS RANGE SEA-LAND QUALITY IS A HOME AWAY FROM HOME FRANCIS HAMMER CARRIES CHEMICAL CARGOES ALL OVER THE WORLD SEAFARERS AID MARINES IN READINESS DRILL ON THE USNS CURTISS LUNDEBERG SCHOOL REVISES RECIPE FOR CHIEF COOKS BASEBALL AND THE SEA SWELL IN THE LEITER FAMILY Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 4/1/1994 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 56, No. 4 1994 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/4c8d77b51a406e79bec339468b5bf249.PDF d3ade0fa511e4377410087ce42321365 PDF Text Text .?r4:' OFFICIAL ORGAN OF THE SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION • ATLANTIC GULF, LAKES AND INLAND WATERS PISTRia • AFL-CIO �2 SEAFARERS LOG President's Report W: Never Give Up '>, 'Ail t#^0 </ Pf • MARCH 1994 Pena: Pauls Putin Budget To BevitaUze U.S. Fleet Generally, once the U.S. government issues a final rule most people accept it. But that's not the case when it comes to the Members of the Clinton ad­ SIU. When situations arise in which the welfare of Seafarers ministration announced tha and their families and the profession itself funding for a U.S.-flag merchant are threatened, the SIU accepts no govern­ fleet revitalization program has ment decree as final. been included in the 1995 budget. Fighting to protect the calling and the Speaking last month at the livelihoods of Seafarers is the union's AFL-CIO Maritime Trades primary function. The union fights against Department (MTD) annual ex­ any discriminatory practices toward ecutive board meeting, both Transportation Secretary Seafarers, whether in the form of an unfair Federico Pena and Maritime Ad­ government tax or any other scheme which will have an adverse effect on SIU members ministrator Albert Herberger said Michael Sacco they are working to implement a and their families. Some of these fights are 10-year, $1 billion Maritime big, some are small. Some are easily winnable; some are tough Security Program (MSP), which and drawn out. Some are fought on many fronts. Some have was announced by the White only one target. But in the end the details of the fight do not House on February 7 as part of the matter; what matters is the objective—fighting in behalf of Fiscal Year 1995 budget. Seafarers and their interests. "Our comprehensive ap­ The so-called user fee the government has been attaching to proach is inclusive and it lifts up merchant mariner documents and licenses since April 19,1993 the entire industry," Pena told the Before the MTD executive board, Transportatlon Sec'y Federico Pena is, in effect, a work tax on American seamen, and so it is an ex­ board, whose membership comes states funding for maritime revitalization is an administration priority. ample of a fight the union has become engaged in and will keep from 28 port councils and 42 af­ The board also heard from on board the vessels for the filiated unions representing eight fighting. members of Congress, trade Department of Defense during million workers. The beef first started in 1991 when the U.S. Coast Guard is­ union officials and the head of the national emergencies. All MSP sued a notice that it was m^ng a rule that would result in fees Federal Mediation Service on vessels would fly the U.S. flag For more coverage matters ranging from maritime to and carry American crews. Also, being charged to mariners for the issuance of seamen's docu­ of the MTD meeting, national health care reform to in­ eligible vessels must be no more ments and marine licenses. In response to the notice, the SIU than 15 years old. ternational trade. lodged strong protests over the scheme with the agency. In addi­ see pages 6 and 7. If implemented, the MSP tion to the objections raised by the SIU, there was an outpour­ If Congress approves the "Previous attempts had would begin October 1 when the ing of protest from individual seamen and boatmen, maritime focused on one of these issues or MSP, it would provide funds for new federal fiscal year starts. companies, other government agencies and mariner training the other and they failed. I believe approximately 52 U.S.-flag mer­ Vessels registered wittiin the pro­ schools. In all, the Coast Guard received more than 3,000 com­ the stakes are too high and the chant vessels in the foreign com- gram would receive $2.5 million opportunities too great for us to be mercial trade. Among the in each of the first three years. ments on the proposal. satisfied with anything short of a SlU-contracted companies ex­ This would be lowered to $2 mil­ Despite the vigorous and near unanimous opposition to the pected to take part in the program fee from all elements of the industry, the Coast Guard ignored comprehensive strategy," he added. are Sea-Land, Waterman, lion for each following year During the two-day meeting, the objections and issued a final rule last April which imple­ Crowley and American President through Fiscal Year 2004. The program would be funded by a mented the fee scheme. When the final rule went into effect, of the MTD formally kicked off a Lines. national petition drive that calls tonnage tax, which would bring in all the voices which had opposed the fee, it was the SIU which on By participating in the MSP, approximately $100 million in Congress to pass and the presi­ did not stop fighting. As soon as the final rule was in place, dent to sign legislation that willkeep companies agree to make their Continued on page 7 which meant the matter could be reviewed by a court, the SIU the U.S.-flag merchant fleet viable. ships available or provide space filed a lawsuit against the discriminatory fee. The SIU invited other maritime unions to join in the fight and, to their credit, each responded with enthusiasm. Last month the union presented its case, as did the Coast Guard, to the judge assigned to this case. More than likely, the judge will rule on the suit in the next few months. It is our hope that he will agree with the union's position that the fee is a disguised tax and the manner in which the fees were set was Proclaiming that "a strong flawed. If, however, the judge allows the tax to prevail, the maritime lies at the heart of a union will consider a number of other options as part of our strong country," House Majority practice to keep fighting against any injustice or unfair practice Leader Richard Gephardt (Dagainst our membership. Mo.) led a congressional bipar­ To keep fighting is our mandate. If we stop just because the tisan show of support for the going is too rough, or because we get too restful, then our fight­ U.S.-flag merchant marine during ing instincts are gradually smothered. And it is our fighting in­ the Maritime Trades Department stincts that best serve our mission to protect and advance the (MTD) executive board meeting well-being and welfare of Seafarers and their families, our last month. profession and our industry. Gephardt was one of five rep­ resentatives addressing the board Educational Opportunities who stated they would work to Seafarers, spouses of Seafarers and children of Seafarers implement a maritime revitaliza­ who are considering higher education should take advantage of tion program during this session the scholarships available through the union and its plans. of Congress. April 15 is the application deadline for grants that will be is­ Speaking ab^ut the sued for the school term which begins in September of this administration's proposal to in­ year. The scholarship monies can make a big contribution to clude a 10-year, $1 billion House Msgority Leader Richard Gephardt (D-Mo.) pledges to the MTD the cost of a college degree. Maritime Security Program executive board that Congress will pass maritime revitalization pro­ I urge any Seafarer or his or her family member who has (MSP) within the Department of gram with a funding mechanism this year. higher education goals to take a shot at the Seafarers' scholar­ Transportation's 1995 fiscal year ships. budget, Gephardt said, "I and Solomon noted the bill "repre­ cargoes to be carried aboard U.S.others in Congress are going to be sents a major step toward the built, U.S.-flag commercial ves­ fighting on your behalf to see that revitalization of this industry." sels with American crews. Mcirch 1994 Volume 56. Number 3 that entry into the budget is more He added that he is optimistic that "Cargo is the lifdblood of the than an entry—^that it really hap­ legislation will pass before the merchant marine. Widiout iL there end of this year and the country simply will be no merchant The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 0160-2047) is published pens." will "be on our way to restoring maiTine," Solomon said. "And that Boosts industry monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District; AFL-CIO; 5201 Joining Gephardt's call to im­ our merchant marine to its once is why it is absolutely necessary for Auth Way; Camp Springs, Md. 20746. Telephone (301) plement maritime legislation was mighty status." the U.S. government to fully com­ 899-0675. Second-class postage paid at MSC Prince Rep. Jerry Solomon (R-N.Y.). He Concerning another matter ply with our cargo preference laws. OeOTges, Md. 20790-9998 and at additional mailing reminded MTD board members dealing with the U.S. merchant "Instead of finding creative offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the of the bipartisan effort in Novem­ fleet, the New York Republican ways of circumventing those Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, Md. ber to pass H.R. 2151, the voiced his concern that the laws, would it not be refreshing if 20746. Maritime Security and jCompeti- Department of Defense is trying they spent that effort promoting Managing Editor, Daniel Duncan; Associate Editcffs, Jor­ tiveness Act, which is ^rVing as to circumvek cargo preference U.S. vesselsT' he asked. dan Biscardo and Corrina Christensen; Associate an outline for the Clinton funding laws, which call for a certain per­ EditCHTPreduction, Deborah A. Hirtes; Art, BiU Brower. Continued on page 6 centage of Defense Department proposal. ••• -V.-Sis-"-'-- • Key House Members Vow To Enact 1995 Ship Bill il .iaw>v.-UH. • �M^H1994 SEAFMERSLOG G SIU Presses Case to End Seamat's Work Tax The SIU moved ahead in its fight to have the tax on seamen employment set aside with St- an appearance before a federa district court judge on Februar 24 in Washington, D.C. The union's lawsuit seeks to ban the fees which the U.S. Coas Guard has been charging for mer­ chant mariner documents (known as z-cards) and marine licenses The fees went into effect on Apri 19, 1993 after the agency had is­ sued its final rule on the matter. As soon as the final rule was in place, making the issue ripe for a court challenge, the union filed its lawsuit, arguing the so-called user fees were nothing more than Federal District Court Judge Louis F. Oberdorfer listens to the SlU's maritime unions: The Coast Guard's table is to the left. Seated in the a thinly veiled tax on seamen's arguments against the Coast Guard-imposed tax on seamen's employ­ audience are Seafarers, many of whom have applied for upgraded ment. To the right of the union's attomey (standing before judge) is the documents and licenses since April and thus have been subject to employment and therefore un­ plairrtiffs' table where the SIU was joined by representatives of other the so-called user fee. constitutional. The lawsuit also charged that the manner in which the attorneys at the plaintiffs The union argued that the fact fees were established, Frulla said. Additionally, union counsel the fees were established is table was SIU Executive Vice that the charge fails to meet the In setting the fee structure, the argued, the Coast Guard built into flawed and based on inaccurate President Joseph Sacco, NML narrow requirements of a user fee Coast Guard adopted a "trust us" the fees a 29 percent overhead and out-of-date information. Counsel Michael Derby and Karl makes the fee an impermissible attitude and never showed or con­ charge without providing any Schwartz, staff editor for the employment "tax" for seamen firmed that the cost and personnel details on why that amount is Maritime Unions Join Suit MM&P. In the audience were and boatmen. As government data they used were cmrent or relevant to the process of issuing In submitting the lawsuit to the some 25 Seafarers, many agencies such as the U.S. Coast accurate, he said. The data the marine documents and licenses. United States federal district whom have upgraded their docu Guard do not have the power to Coast Guard used was, however, This charge "is not related to court for the District of Columbia, ments and licenses since Apri tax, and only Congress can levy at best "suspect" and at worst documentation. The Coast Guard the SIU invited other maritime and have thus been subjected to taxes, the so-called user fee on grossly flawed. The agency es­ is making ballpark guesses," said unions to join in the legal effort to the unfair tax. marine documents and licenses tablished fees for marine docu­ FruUa. end the work tax on seamen. should be disallowed, the SIU ments and licenses which range Seamen and boatmen "are not In the union's opening state In addition to the SIU, which ment, attomey Fmlla stated thai counsel said. from $35 to nearly $3(X) based on looking for rocket-science The court also must examine that erroneous information, the encompasses the Sailors' Union the charge for marine documents Continued on page 14 the unfair manner in which the SIU lawsuit charges. of the Pacific and the Marine and licenses is in effect a work tax Firemen's Union, the following on American seamen and boat­ unions are plaintiffs in the suit: men and not a tme user fee. The District 4 - National Maritime union's counsel argued that Union/MEBA (NMU); District government agencies are only The head of the Departmen No. 1 - Marine Engineers Benefi­ egally allowed to collect fees for of Transportation urged Con­ cial Association; American 1 service when the service in gress to enact legislation that Maritime Officers (AMD), Dis­ question is primarily designed to would include all-encompassing trict 2/MEBA; and International jenefit its recipient. changes in the way the inlanc Organization of Masters, Mates indushy is regulated to insure Fees Unconstitutional and Pilots (MM&P). Additional­ safe operations along the water­ ly, five individual seamen are In the case of marine docu­ ways and coastal regions. serving as plaintiff. ments and licenses, Fmlla said, Secretary of Transportation the beneficiaries are primarily the Federico Pena outlined a series First Court Appearance )ublic, the environment and the ideasdeveloped by his depart­ Since the suit was filed in vessel owners and operators anc of ment to improve the safety sdong April of last year, the upion and not merchant seamen and boat­ America's navigable water­ the Coast Guard have been sub­ men. He demonstrated that, from ways. Among the proposals he mitting their positions in writing 852 to the present, laws address­ discussed were more stringent to the court Tlie February 24 hear­ ing the qualifications and ratings licensing requirements, ing provided a chance to l:x)th par­ and licenses of merchant seamen documentation of all boatmen. ties to make a presentation in can be directly linked to public Coast Guard inspection of all tug person before Judge Louis F. Ober- outcry for safe waterborne and towing vessels, testing and Safety on the nation's waterways must be improved, said TransporSecretary Pena (left) to a House panel. He urged Congress dorfer, who will rule on the case. transport of passengers and cargo, training of the men and women tation o adopt a comprehensive bill on the matter. At the hearing, the union was and, more recently, a clean, oil- who work on inland vessels and represented by attorneys Stanley spill-free environment. Inevitab- improved navigational aids Frulla said, each law was aboard the boats. M. Brand and David E. Frulla of His proposal would place compass and depth finder may the Washington, D.C.-based law passed in the w^e of a shipping Speaking before the House restrictions on the licenses based be necessary for safe navigation. firm of Brand & Lowell. Joining disaster. Coast Guard and Navigation on the route, tonnage or horse­ Another area in which Pena Subcommittee on March 3, Pena power of a vessel as well as the said he wants to see improve­ Highlights of SiU Case told the panel he and his depart­ towing configuration. Pena ment is the field of accident ment are prepared to work with proposed a three-year appren­ notification. Below are some excerpts from the court filings of the SlU's Congress in creating and passing ticeship as the first step to "The rule must be — when in lawsuit against the U.S. Coast Guard's so-called user fees for such legislation. He recom­ qualify for a basic license only. doubt, report," he stated to the merchant mariner documents and marine licenses. mended September 22 (the one• The Coast Guard employed impermissible factors, including its In order to advance, the subcommittee. He said there costs, public policy, and merchant seamen's ability to pay the year anniversary of the Amtrak operator would have to receive have been many times when a license and document fees to be assessed, in calculating [the] derailment in which 47 people "practical, hands-op training or pilot was in doubt whether to fees. In so doing, the Coast Guard seeks to impose what con­ died near Mobile, Ala. after a Coast Guard-approved report a barge striking an object. stitutionally amounts to a tax on merchant seamen." bridge was knocked out of align­ simulator course and pass a writ­ Such a change in the laws would "A fee must (1) be based on the value conferred on the recipient; ment when a tug/barge hit the ten, practical or simulator ex­ remove all doubts. capped by (2) be capped ov the agency's direct costs; and (3) not charge the structure) as the date he would amination or some combination In order to make sure such a service recipient for independent public benefit. like to place inland safety legis­ thereof." rule would be practiced, Pena "Every licensing and documenting initiative was a legislative reac­ lation on the president's desk for tion to a major maritime disaster (or series of theni) which killed proposed raising the fine for not Equipment Guidelines many memoers of the public and/or caused an environmental his signature. reporting an accident from catastrophe." The next step in the $1,000 to $25,000. Stronger Licensing Regs "Licensing and documenting was required historically and in secretary's approach for a safer Improve Navigational Aids preponderant part for the public good." Calling the effort to improve inland industiy is to establish The Coast Guard's calculation of its merchant mariner licensing waterborne transport "one of our guidelines for radar and naviga­ A fourth step in making in­ and documenting program costs is not based on legal or permis­ highest priorities," the secretary tional equipment on board the land waterways safer would be sible criteria and fails under the Administrative Procedure Act." outlined for the subcommittee vessels. to improve the aids to navigation The Coast Guard's time calculations [used in setting the fee] are lis ideas for increasing safety in He called for tugs and towin the vicinity of bridges and based on its and its regional offices' dated, hasty, and often the industry. Ijoats to have on board up-toother obstructions in the chan­ politically andbureaucratically motivated guesses." "FirsL more stringent licens­ date charts of the areas in which nels. The Coast Guard decided to apply a 29% surcharge to its ing requirements for operators they sail, current OT corrected As with the reporting of acci­ program costs to capture what it asserte is extra regional ex^ of uninspected towing vessels navigational publications and dents, Pena said he wo^d like to center-based general support/headquarters overhead for the must be developed, and these marine radar for surface naviga­ see the penalties stiffened for llronsing and documenting program." licenses should have levels of tion. "Neither plaintiffs nor the court need accept on blind faite the qualification," Pena said. government's assurances that the 29% surcharge pertains to The secretary also noted a Continued on page 14 mariner licensing and dcwumentlng." • / •Mr DOT Head: Inland Safety a 'Prierlty' . ••••;•• -a"-?.'••••SS'iJ V • •- ' ; .. ,. ii, '•i rrj-s •- > �4 SEAFARERS LOG MARCH 1904 ^ Backs nshamen's Pntest Tough Regs Limit Access te Greuiuifish Hshery SIU fishermen in New Bed­ gestions and vent frustration over to pay for the transponders if the New Bedford have spearheaded Claiborne Pell (D-R.I.), and Rep­ ford, Mass.face tough new the difficult times they face NMFS decides to reinstate their efforts to liken the fisheiy col­ resentatives Frank, Gerry Studds federal regulations this spring Those industry members notec use. All permitted vessels af­ lapse to any other natural disaster (D-Mass.), Olympia Snowe (Rthat are intended to help restore that for the first time, government fected by either plan would be with severe consequences for Maine) and Jack Reed (D-R.I.) also stressed the need for imme­ and rebuild the Georges Bank officials are admitting partia eligible, and those which already various local communities. diate short-term relief to compli­ igroundHsh and scallop stocks blame for the current state of the have purchased one could appl; According to an aide. Senator ment the long-run solutions being which have been in noticeable New England groundfish fishery for a rebate. Edward Kennedy (D-Mass.) ex­ pursued by Bullard. They pointed decline in recent years. due to its efforts to unnecessarily pressed displeasure over the SIU Presses for Relief put the vast importance of the The National Marine Fisheries build up commercial fleets over Commerce Department's slow fishing industry has to the Service, part of the Department of the past 20 years. Any type of economic assis response to the crisis in New economies of their states. The plan to aid industry mem­ tance package, however, is likely Conunerce, is gearing up to en­ Among the immediate com­ force their groundfish and scallop bers in New England is seen as a to be much longer in coming. In England. Kennedy contrasted this with the well-coordinated and munity needs are development fishery management plans begin­ model for providing relief to the meantime, die SIU has been high-profile response the Clinton funds for economic development, ning in March. (Groundfish is the fishermen displaced by manage­ pressing for near-term relief to Administration made to the tim­ development of new markets for general term for a large number of ment measures. alleviate the hardship felt by ber issue in the Northwest. under-utilized species, low-cost Frank, whose congressional many in New Bedford and other commercially important species debt restructuring, unemploy­ Recently, several congres­ such as cod, haddock, various district includes this coastal city, New England communities. ment benefits, retrofitting boats to sional leaders held a meeting with talked to Commerce Department flounders and more.) The frustration with the Com­ take advantage of new fisheries, Commerce Secretary Ron Perhaps more than any other officials and got them to postpone merce Depart- ment's slow region. New England's fish the requirement for Vessel Track­ response led hundreds of fisher­ Brown. Senators Kerry, and family counseling. stocks are thought to be in serious ing Systems or "black boxes men and as many as 100 boats danger of depletion. As a result, aboard both scallop and including SlU-contracted the area is becoming a testing groundfish vessels for up to six vessels—to sail into Boston Har­ ground not only for extremely months. bor on February 28 to bring their Both the scallop and groundfish plight to the attention of Governor strict measures to reduce fishing effort, but also for structuring recovery plans require the purchase WUliam Weld and the people of economic assistance when of these expensive tracking Massachusetts. This action has The AFL-CIO announced its conference that the academy is an federal efforts to manage devices, which cost about $5,000 brought the issue to the fore at both opposition to a- Clinton ad­ essential part of the nation's fisheries fail. plus monthly connection fees, to state and federal levels, but no con­ Henri Francois, SIU Port monitor the restrictive "days-at- crete actions were in place as the ministration proposal to cut fund­ maritime system. "Maintaining and improving ing for the U.S. Merchant Marine Agent in the port of New Bedford, sea" limitations. Seafarers LOG went to press. Academy in Kings Point, N.Y. this system is especially impor­ recently attended the second of However, as the Seafarers and to begin charging tuition to tant at a time when ongoing eight planned meetings in North­ Economic Earthquake the men and women studying at developments in shipboard tech­ eastern coastal communities with pointed out during the amend­ In Washington, Senator John the institution. nology require seafarers to pos­ Rep. Barney Frank (D-Mass.) and ment process, these black boxes In a resolution passed unani­ sess advanced knowledge and John Bullard, head of the new are both intrusive and unneces­ Kerry (D-Mass.) has succeeded Commerce Department Office of sary, and so this delay will give in attaching language to the $7.6 mously at the national labor superior technical skills," Sustainable Development and In­ the industry an opportunity to billion California earthquake •edefation's executive council Kirkland stated. "The administration's tergovernmental Affairs. An es­ )rove that a call-in system can relief measure. Kerry's amend­ meeting last month, the AFL-CIO timated 300 concerned New work. The SIU has opposed the ment authorires the Secretary of called on the White House and proposal to reduce the academy's Bedford fishing industry repre­ government's plan to force Commerce to make up to $550 Congress "to continue full fund­ funding and charge tuition would sentatives including SIU officials ishermen to acquire and use the million available to the fishing ing for the U.S. Merchant Marine be a further abdication of and members overflowed a local so-called black boxes. industry for disaster aid. Francois Academy £uid to make maritime government's essential role in meeting room both to make sug­ Frank promised to seek funds and other community leaders in training and education an impor­ preserving a domestic merchant tant element in a comprehensive fleet and a corps of highly policy to rebuild the domestic- qualified merchant seafarers. We flag fleet." have long decried the The resolution was presented government's failure to stop the )y the Maritime Trades Depart­ severe decline of the U.S.-flag ment, after its executive board merchant marine, which has [lad passed a similar resolution played such a critical role in inter­ Rep. Helen Bentley (R-Md.) "properly address the privately the week before during its annual national commerce and in fulfill­ has vowed to ensure U.S. govern­ ownedU.S.-flag commercial ves­ meeting. ing America's military sealift ment compliance with its own sel preference requirements of The council noted that the requirements during wartime." cargo preference laws at a time MarAd." academy is symbolic of the im­ The idea to cut the amount of when the Defense Department Meanwhile, other cargoportance of U.S.-flag shipping to money provided to the academy proposes to establish test preference supporters are lining his nation. The loss of this as well as apply a tuition first programs that would allow the up against legislation introduced i)eacon would signal a loss of will surfaced in Vice President A1 waiver of such laws, ostensibly in last year by Senator John Glenn to maintain this vital industry. Gore's National Performance the interest of improving the (D-Ohio) Aat would allow the AFL-CIO President Lane Review, also known as the rein­ defense acquisition process. govemment to hire foreign-flag Grkland, who sailed as a mate vent govemment document, in U.S.-flag carriers and the ships to move American military during World War II, told a press September 1993. Department of Transportation shipments. That waiver is part of (DOT) are voicing strong objec­ the defense acquisition reform tions to the trial programs, under program, which in turn has roots which U.S. military cargoes in Vice President Gore's rein­ Rep. Helen Bentley vows to make would not have to be transported venting govemment plan. The Defense Department sure cargo preference laws are ad­ on American-flag ships. A longtime supporter of the claims that its pilot programs will hered to. An amendment to the Coast Guard Authorization Act passed by U.S.-flag merchant marine, not "adversely affect in a material effect" on the U.S.-flag merchant Zongress last year means Seafarers will have to take even more care Bentley recently told the Navy's way the economy [or] a sector of fleet. of the discharge papers they receive when signing off a vessel. Military Sealift Command the economy." As a result of the law, the Coast Guard will no longer maintain The DOT also is on record as But James Henry, president of opposing the trial programs. In a copies of merchant mariner discharge certificates. Although the law (MSC) and the Maritime Ad­ ministration (MarAd) that she the Transportation Institute, a letter to Deputy Under Secretary is not yet in effect, a Coast Guard spokesperson said an an­ specifically will monitor an im­ trade association representing of Defense for Acquisition nouncement regarding implementation is expected in the near future. minent military assistance ship­ U.S.-flag vessel operators in Reform John Deutch, the DOT When the law kiclu in, vessel owners will be required to maintain ment (25,000 tons of munitions) domestic and international com­ stated that it "has serious reserva­ discharge certificates, as well as employment and service records. for Greece to make sure cargo merce, pointed out, "By failing to tions about the proposed pilot These records will be available to the mariner and the Coast Guard. preference mandates are met. perform a regulatory impact program policy. . . . Allowing What this will mean to Seafarers is members in the future will no "I and many others in the Con­ analysis, DoD has ignored the ef­ cargo preference requirements to onger be able to contact the Coast Guard for a copy of a lost gress have received numerous fect that a waiver of cargo be waived by the pilot program discharge paper. They will have to contact the vessel owner to obtain complaints from the U.S.-flag preference statutes will have on would have an adverse impact on copy. However, the Coast Guard will keep on record all discharge maritime community about the the merchant fleet. . . . Cargo privately owned and operated (MSC's) attempts to divert preference is a core element of the commercial U.S.-flag vessels." papers already in their care. These will not be eliminated and mem­ military foreign assistance car­ government's oft-stated policy to At least one major U.S.-flag bers can continue to contact the agency for copies of these docu­ goes to Navy-owned" vessels maintain a strong commercial operator indicated that waiver of ments, the spokesperson added. Only papers issued after the new law under MSC's control, Bentley fleet, and must not be jeopardized cargo preference laws "could sig­ is implemented, which could be later this year, will not be stored by said in a recent letter to Vice Ad­ in the name of acquisition nificantly affect our interest in the Coast Guard. Discharge papers are very valuable to Seafarers especially when miral Michael Kalleres, who is in reform—an effort whose rewards continuing to exist as a U.S.-flag they file for vacation pay and pensions. The papers also are used to charge of the sealift command. for waiving cargo preference operator in the international prove time at sea which is needed for health benefits and drug testing. trades," according to newspaper Similarly, in a letter to would be speculative at best." Members are being advised to make a copy of each discharge as Marftime Adpiinistrator Albert Likewise, the American reports. they acquire them and store the originals in a safe, secure location. No hearings have taken place Herberger, Bentley charged that Maritime Congress warned that Once the implementation date is announced, the SIU will notify there have been frequent oc­ suspending cargo-preference regarding the legislation members through the ports and publish it in the Seafarers LOG. casions when MSC failed to laws would have a "devastating au&orizing the pilot programs. AFL'MO Urges Backing Of Kings Point Faciiity i . DOT, BenUey and U.S. Carriers Balk at Cargo Preference Waiver Hew Law Ends Coast Guard's Maintenance of Discharges ;/. :r/ \i • �MARCH 1994 SEAFARERS LOG 5 DespHe tey Watms, Lakes Season Unria Good Despite sub-zero temperatures icebreakers. It will certainly he a season and will he a major con^ and piles of snow that covered the tough opening," Nekvasil told a trihuting factor in the success of Midwest and caused most of the reporter for the Seafarers LOG. this year's fitout. However, the Great Lakes to freeze over this He noted that weather and ice Mackinaw is slated for decom­ winter, early indications are call­ conditions were not especially missioning this May. ing for a strong start to the 1994 conducive to the ore trade at the "The upcoming loss of the sailing season on the Lakes. end of the 1993 season. Ice for­ Mackinaw has many in the Great "Steel mills report high mations in the connecting chan­ Lakes shipping industry ques­ operating rates and are requesting nels were six to eight feet thick. tioning if early and late season fleets he ready to lock down with "Ice plugs" developed in certain operations will he feasible in fu­ iron ore as soon as the Soo Locks key sections, and commercial ture years," Nekvasil said. reopen this month," stated Glen vessels needed assistance from George Ryan, president of Nekvasil of the Great Lakes Car­ Coast Guard icebreakers to con­ Lake Carriers' Association, cau­ rier Association, which monitors tinue their transits. tioned that a March 25 opening the action of U.S.-flag shipping The ice along the St. Clair will he a formidable task if cur­ on the Lakes. River, which flows past the Al- rent weather conditions persist. Deckhand Cornel Tiger" Leahu (right) asks Algonac Port Repre­ The Great Lakes basin is the gonac, Mich. SIU hall from Lake "Even in a normal winter, resum­ sentative Ken Homer when he should report to his ship. heart of the American steel in­ Huron to Lake Erie, is shore to ing navigation is more difficult if dustry, hosting more than 70 per­ shore. "There is no doubt that the only because the absence of ves­ and refill all the pipes emptied 1993 wrapped up on January 15 cent oif the nation's steelmalang ice is had hut our crews will go out sel transits has allowed the ice to during layup to prevent ice from with the closure of the locks. A capacity. The production of one as scheduled and meet this cargo reach maximum strength and forming and bursting the pipes. year-end surge in cargo demand ton of steel requires about 1.35 demand. We are hoping for the best thickness. Now it is reported that Depending on what is being allowed bulkers to u^oad extra tons of iron ore, plus some quan­ season yet," said Tim Kelley, Al- Lake Superior has frozen over for done in preparation for the iron ore pellets, stone, coal, ce­ tities of fluxstone and coal. As a gonac port representative. the first time since 1978. That season, the deck crew will arrive ment and other products us^ in result, iron ore, coal and stone are means the ice field in Whitefish from a few days to two weeks the region before being forced to Heavy Ice the three largest commodities Bay could be unusually thick in later, and the vessel will depart a tie up. moved on the Great Lakes. The U.S. Coast Guard cutter March. Only the Mackinaw can couple of days afterward. Ifie association reported that "The locks will he open on Mackinaw, the largest icebreaker open Whitefish Bay under such during the 1993 season, U.S.-flag Late '93 Season March 25, hut how many sWps will stationed on the Great Lakes, was conditions and let the iron ore dry-bulk carriers were in service flow through will he determined by very active in keeping the ore start moving through the Soo SIU crewmembers got a jump a total of 317 days. Shipments of the Coast Guard and their trade going at the end of the Locks," Ryan noted. on the 1993 navigation season all commodities aboard U.S.-flag when the American Republic left lakers totaled 107.9 million tons, an FItotit Plans the port of Toledo, Ohio on increase of 2 percent over figures 'Titout dates are very tentative Febiqaty 18. The official season for the '92 season. Iron ore at this time," Kelley told the began on March 16 with the sailing remained the primary cargo for Seafarers LOG. "Inland Lakes of cement carriers Alpena and S.T. Great Lakes carriers—shipments Management and American Q-apo. Cement carriers are typical­ in U.S. bottoms totaled 56.6 million Steamship have given us fitout ly the first vessels out after winter. tons, an increase of 1.75 percent dates through Apifi and May but The Great Lakes season for over the previous year. we expect changes." He added that SIU members should be in touch with the hall to find out when ships will be crewing. As fitout begins, engine and steward department members will be the first to arrive aboard the vessels. While the galley crew takes care of getting food ordered and prepared for the season, the Algonac Port Representative Brian Brdak shows AB David Smith a engine department will make necessary repairs to the engines tentative fitout schedule. Hannah Tugs Never Stop New Cove Tanker Crowed by SIU Seafarers sailed aboard the ports throughout the U.S. Once the ship reaches a port, it Cove Endeavor, a newly con­ tracted tanker, for the first time on ties up to the designated pier and January 15 out of Portland, Ore. hoses (or chicksan) are hooked The vessel is considered to be one up to the manifold to onload or of the finest American flag discharge the cargo. The ship will remain in port between 24 and 30 tankers of its class. In ships minutes sent to the hours to complete this process. A1 Middleton, personnel Seafarers LOG by the Endeavor crew. Bosun Clyde Smith manager for Cove Shipping, told reminded the crewmembers that a reporter for the Seafarers LOG they are the first SIU members that "the union and the company aboard the vessel, and working have a very good relationship." together will make the ship as fine He added that the galley gang prepares excellent meals diat are as union ships can be. The vessel picked up its first enjoyed by the entire crew. "All cargo of crude oil in Panama and in all, SIU crews are hard delivered it successfully to St. workers, and they always get the James, La. The Endeavor will job done," Middleton said. The tanker is 810 feet long. transport crude oil to different 105 feet wide and has a top speed of 15 knots. Seafarers already sail aboard the other Cove Shipping vessels, the Cove Liberty and the Photo: Muskegon Chronicle Cove Trader. The SlU-crewed James A. Hannah pushes a barge of liquid fertilier Seafarers who sailed on the Endeavor's maiden voyage in the deck department with Bosun Smith include Timmothy Troupe, Nathanial Rivera, Ronald Huyett, Robert Brown, Paul Van Holiebeke, Matthew Sandy and Zaid Alderwish. In the engine department are Mark Grendahl, Dennis Riley and Steve Tebbe. Thomas Wybo, Ahmed Mutbana, and Mohamed Ahmed sailed in the steward department. from Chicago through the ice of Lake Michigan to Muskegon, Mich. For OTS Transport tugboats into the cleared path. and barges which are designed to The tug-barge combinations operate year-round on the Great each maneuver the tight bends L^es, the coldest winter in more and turns of the lakes' tributaries than a decade provided no breaks that others cannot. In the winter, in service for the vessels or their Hannah tugs can be found push­ SIU crews. As all five Great ing barges filled mainly with Lakes froze over—^many for the petroleum products on lakes first time in more than 15 years Michigan, HurOn and Erie. In the these workhorses delivered fuel summer months their cargos are oil through the bitter cold extended to include asphalL ce­ temperatures and heavy ice. ment and stone. "It was very slow for us this "The SIU men and women winter but operations never who crew our tugs are very dedi­ ceased," said M Hogan, opera­ cated and hard-working. You have tions manager for OTS Transport to be, to be able to sustain such (also known as Hannah tugs). weather conditions," Hogan noted. We have always requested some Three of the 12 SlU-crewed type of Coast Guard assistance, OTS/Hannah tugs continued but this year it seemed almost operations during the winter constant to get through the iced months to fill the demand for petroleum products along the waterways." Hogan noted that the Coast lakes.They are the James A. Han­ Guard was called in for track nah, Mary E. Hannah and the maintenance throughout the Mark Hannah. Other SlU-crewed Hannah winter months. He recdled that so much Coast Guard assistance is tugs which are in layup for the unusual for the tugs but became winter include the Donald C. necessary as the winter condi­ Hannah, Margaret M. Hannah, tions on the lakes became Kristin Lee, Susan W. Hannah, progressively worse. Coast Peggy D. Hannah, Daryl C. Han­ Guard icebreakers cut relief nah, Hannah D. Hannah, and tracks for the tugs, which allowed Mary Page Hannah. the vessels to plow through ad­ OTS Transport is based in )lvde Smith reports the first voyage of the tanker Cove Eiideavor with an SIU crew was a big Bosun 01 jacent ice, pusliwg the broken ice Lemont, 111., a suburb of Chicago. . The vessel onloaded prude oil In Partama and delivered it to Si James, La. success. . yfl:. . ..Mv i •'y' ^7 '•'f,"' ' |f . '/y.' �••I- e Mi; SBUwiasLOG HUaCHISM House Members Pledge te Pass Ship Bill in '95 Continued from page 2 The representative went on to Also questioning the efforts to say the reason the secretary disregard cargo preference laws wanted the waivers was that the was Rep. Neil Abercrombie (D- Defense Department could ship Hawaii), a member of the House military supplies cheaper on Armed Services Committee and foreign-flag vessels. another longtime supporter of the "I resent someone standing up U.S. merchant marine. there who is defending the United Addressing a standing-room audience, Rep. Neil Abercrombie (D-Hawaii) encourages the MTD executive Attacks Waiver Request States of America and they are board to fight for strong U.S.-fiag maritime legislation. Pictured at far left is MTD President Michael Sacco. Abercrombie told the execu­ willing to take what I consider tive board that the secretary of slave labor," Abercrombie stated. collect an estimated $1(X) million then they ought to be able to shipyards and the U.S.-flag mer­ defense had appeared before the "Slave labor?! Of course, it's annually, he noted, "If we can defend equally the capacity to chant marine," noted Ackerman, House committee to gain ap­ cheaper when you have slave pass a tonnage tax, I want every have a merchant marine ready widiin whose New York district proval to waive cargo preference labor. What choice do they single penny of that matched by and able not only to go to war but is located the U.S. Merchant laws. money com­ to engage in the commercial war Marine Academy at Kings Point. have?" "The y ing out of the that the president himself said we "Finally, we have a chance to The Hawaii Democrat pointed want to get are involved in right now on a tell the thonsands of working men Department out that several of the nations waivers," he of Defense. global basis," Abercrombie and women who serve in the said. "You listed as allies (and therefore con­ maritime trades that they may no "If you stated. know what sidered for transporting goods) have people "The money is there. It's our longer have to fear the loss of waiving is to specifically naming Panama, their jobs." who say that money and our policy." me? Waiving Liberia and Russia—were having they can internal crises of their own. In welcom­ is bye-bye! Rep. Gary Ackerman advised defend the ing the group Rep. Ackerman That means the executive board to keep fight­ Seeks Additional Sources continuation ing Rep. Solomon to south for maritime legislation bye-bye to the Regarding the administra­ of Star Wars despite Florida, fteshinclusion of the MSP in American tion's proposal to fund the MSP and intercontinental ballistic man Rep. Peter maritime industry. I was shock­ through a tonnage tax that would defense research and technology. the Transportation Department's budget. He called 1994 "a pivotal Deutsch (Ded." year for maritime policy. Fla.) stated he "At long last, we have the op­ is committed Rep. Deutsch -— portunity to reverse the terrible to passing legislation this year "to make sure decline of the Reagan/Bush years, when our government we are going to have a maritime tnmed its back on America's industry in this country." fe'" fv MTD Urges Congress to Pass Health Care Reform This Year '•r^i >• :.' •: From labor officials to mem­ surance. Many of the new jobs of health care any longer," Geor­ bers of Congress, the message being created offer little, if any, gine told the gathering. was the same at the Maritime healA care coverage to workers. He stated Aat through collec­ Trades Department (MTD) ex­ Surveys have shown that unless tive bargaining, unions have paid ecutive board meeting last month: action is taken soon, as many as for health care coverage not only Health care reform is needed to one-third of those who now have for their members but also "for aid the working people of the coverage will lose it in 10 years. everybody else that does not have United States. insurance." He talked about states Outlines Principles In presenting the department's like New York that add 26 per­ With several plans being cent resolution to the board, MTD to medical bills to cover President Michael Sacco noted debated before the House and the people who do not have in­ AFL-CIO Secretary- surance. the "resolution confirms our com­ Senate, Treasurer mitment to work with unstop­ "Who pays for it?" he asked. pable energy to secure passage of Thomas "We pay it. So, we're paying for I national health care system—a Donahue people now that do not have reminded the lealth security act for all health insurance." board mem­ Americans." Under the plan offered by the bers what the He pointed out that the White House, employers would enemies of such legislation are trade labor be mandated to provide coverage the same as during the 1936 fight movement for their employees. Other or Social Security as well as the will be fight­ proposals before Congress do not ing for in Robert Georglne 1965 battle for Medicare. go this far. On the enemy list are certain health care ~ business interests, conservatives, legislation. Attacks on Program MTD Vice President William Zenga calls on the federal government "We still stand on our basic the health in­ Robert McGlotten, director of to streamline the procedures for getting permits to dredge New York surance lobby principles; quality care, universal the national labor federation's and other metropolitan hartx)rs. and, of course, coverage and cost containment," legislative department, warned the doctors' Donahue said. "Those are the the executive board that attacks lobby—the bedrock on which a new system are focusing on the employerA M A has to be based." mandate issue. He noted that if He pointed out that the plan employer mandate was removed, (American Medical As­ presently proposed by the Clinton' it could mean "that any kind of sociation)," administration meets the criteria. health care program that will Tom Donahue Sacco said. "It We can support the Clinton plan come about is the very so long as it stays as it is," he will possibly same crowd added. be one that Donahue noted trade unionists which has opposed every major will come aw that has helped working will fight against any proposal after us in )eople and their families in this that calls for the taxation of health terms of taxa­ benefits as a means of paying for century." tion of After listing excuses used by the plan. "We're not going to dis­ employee these groups to try to stop Social cuss the taxation of our benefits," benefits." Security and Medicare, Sacco he said after noting that union Bob McGlotten He pointed stated, "We are not going to let members have given up wage in­ out that the these elite, powerful, rich, creases in order to have those primary issue in all collective bar­ entrenched, selfish interests benefits. gaining agreements reached in block a fair and comprehensive the last eight years has been Pays for Others health care system for all health care. "We haven't been Backing up Donahue's call Americans!" able to put more money into our was Robert Georgine, the presi­ The resolution, which passed dent of the Building and Con­ members' pockets," McGlotten unanimously, noted ap­ struction Trades Department. said. "What we had to do was proximately 39 million "Our collective bargaining compensate to cover for the cost Describing his agenda for the federal mediation and conciliation Americans have no health in- system can't support the weight of health." service to the MTD is John Calhoon Wells, the agency's director. �samuiiKUK 7 Budget Includes Funding Fer U.S. Merchant Fleet Continued from page 2 each of the 10 years. Positive Step MTD President Michae An Amtrak Sunset Limited passengar descriises at a becember Sacco called the inclusion of the hearing the events that led to the derailment of the train after a barge program in the federal budget "a rammed a bridge over Big Bayou Canot near Mobile, Ala. recognition of the need for posi tive means to reverse the dangerous decline of America' merchant shipping capability. "President Clinton and Secretary Pena are to be com­ mended for their recognition o the seriousness of the U.S. fleet' The pilot of the tug which According to Leon present plight and the need for caused the derailment of Katcharian, a National Transpor­ immediate action to avoid, the Maritime Administrator Albert Herberger tells the MTD executive that the Clinton maritime program will "preserve good jobs on Amtrak's ^Mnjcf Limited, failed tation Safety Board (NTSB) calamity that would befall this na­ board American ships." the Coast Guard License exam marine accident investigator, a tion should its maritime posture seven times and was involved in full report on the Amtrak accident Sacco added. gress and the administration and modernization of domestic several other accidents before the will be made public early this be ignored," Pena praised the tenacity o disaster that claimed the lives of summer. Included in the report the maritime industry, specifical agreed to do—even in that con shipyards within the budget: 47 people on the night of Septem­ will be a final conclusion as to the ly naming Sacco and AFL-CIO text, the president said, T want to "Overage, obsolete fleets; en­ make this a priority.' That indi vironmental and safety pressures ber 22. official cause of the derailment President Lane Kirkland, in push cates how important this is." from the Oil Pollution Act of According to The Journal of and recommendations to govern­ ng for legislation that served as 1990 and International Maritime Plan Summarized Commerce, the pilot of the MV ment agencies, companies, trade the model for the administration' Organization fallout; and the in­ Pena outlined the four key Mauvilla was promoted and organizations and industry fonfu- proposal. That bill, H.R. 2151 creased volume of trade." demoted several times before the ture prevention of such disasters. jassed by an overwhelming mar­ parts of the MSP: maintain The admiral stated that the accident on the Big Bayou Canot Based on the findings of a gin in the House of Repre­ modem U.S.-flag merchant fleet, need for a modern merchant provide sealift during nationa near Mobile, Ala. He also had recent NTSB review. Secretary of sentatives in November. marine as well as state-of-the-art emergencies, ensure the U.S. flag three minor accidents within a Transportation Federico Pena will fly on the high seas to shipyards are linked directly to Maritime is 'Priority' three-month period while piloting direct^ the U.S. Coast Guard and other boats. He noted the continued efforts transport international commerce the country's role "as a military Federal Railroad Administration superpower and world leader in Federal investigators report to undertake several initiatives to of the maritime community kept and preserve maritime jobs. international trade. "JTie secretary added that the that the pilot of the Mauvilla be­ minimize the risk of another acci­ the legislation and industry "The American merchant Transportation Departmen came lost in fog and unintention­ dent occurring similar to theSun­ )efore Congress. marine is an important source of budget also included funds to ally entered the Big Bayou Canot, set Limited. The proposal "This industry, sometimes ou for America's armed seapower cover loan guarantees for ship where barge traffic is prohibited. included more stringent licensing of sight with the exception perforces. In addition, it is vital to our The string of barges being towed requirements for operators of laps of those of us who come building, export ship construction economic interests to maintain a got loose and struck a nearby uninspected towing vessels. This From port communities, is ab­ and shipyard updating. critical level of comimercial Pena said, "A healthy bridge, causing a section of the would call for towboat operators solutely critical to our economy maritime industry is a central ele presence in maritime markets." railroad bridge to be knocked 41 to pass simulator tests and written and to our global competitiveness Continuing on the theme of inches out of alignment. The shift exams each time they want to and to bur national security," the ment not only in our defense commercial shipbuilding in the secretary told the gathering. Be readiness, but in our nation's United States, left a bridge girder in the path of upgrade their licenses. MTD President the oncoming train and ultimately The plan would upgrade the cause of the efforts by the competitiveness as well." Sacco pointed out that American caused the Sunset Limited to requirements for radar and maritime unions and industry Supports Secretary workers have been turning out plunge into the muddy bayou navigational equipment on tow- "•ena pointed out the merchant Adding emphasis to the the most technologically ad­ waters. boats. It would look iiito improv­ marine was not overlooked in the secretary's words was the head of vanced naval ships in the world. Factors involved in the derail­ ing the way mishaps and 'Y '95 budget. "This president the Maritime Administration "Shipbuilding labor has the stood up and said to the nation am MarAd), Vice Admiral Albert superior ment of the passenger train, ac­ accidents are reported. skills, the high produc­ cording to federal investigators, Pena's proposal also would the Congress: This is a priority," Herberger (Ret.). tivity and, in short, everything it include a lack of navigational seek new means for checking the lie stated. "And that's why, in a Referring to the MSP, he saic takes to build ships into the 21st tools aboard the vessel, Ae pilot structural integrity of bridges and very difficult budget—^and you it would not only "preserve gpot century," he told the board in in­ mistaking the bridge for a barge strengthening emergency all have heard about the cuts that obs on American ships, it will troducing a resolution dealing on the radar and absence of lights preparedness while enhancing other departments had to take be­ lelp maintain a well-trained crew with shipbuilding. on the bridge or warning signs at the prospects for victims' sur­ cause we all had to stay within >ase available to crew commer­ The resolution, which calls for ludget caps that both die Con- cial vessels, military sealift ves­ an end vival should a crash occur. bayou waters. to unfair subsidies by other sels and Ready Reserve Force nations, seeks to have Congress vessels. The program recognized and the administration adopt a that the U.S.-flag fleet provides policy so that theU.S. will beable essential service and jobs, and to compete internationally for creates a supporting infrastruc­ shipbuilding jobs. It passed unan­ ture paid for by the private sec­ imously. tor." In announcing the national The U.S. Coast Guard has studying the last four to five years results in a series of reports, "But As this countiy redeploys its petition drive, Frank Pecquex, the launched an investigation into the of personal injury accidents this is tentative and won't be for troops from locations around the department's executive possible under-reporting of per­ reported. It has been indicated some time," he added. world to bases in the United secretary-treasurer, asked all sonal injury accidents by tug and that some companies are not Without identifying the com­ States, Herberger noted the unions and port councils barge companies operating ^ong reporting all of such accidents, pany by name, newspaper reports armed forces will need all modes member to set up exhibits and displays in the inland waterways. John Reddick,chief warrant officer state that some companies being of transportation necessary to order to gain as many signatures This investigation follows a and senior investigative officer for investigated have officially move people and materiel quickly. as possible in support of foe U.S.year of heightened concern for the Coast Guard Marine Safety Of­ reported only 2 percent of the in­ That requires airlift and Flag merchant fleet. river safety, especially after the fice in St. Louis, recently told a jury accidents it recorded inter­ sealift," he stated. "In the absence He noted foe MTD already has of timely sealift, the strategic con­ Amtrak derailment near Mobile, reporter for the Seafarers LOG. received several thousand signa­ nally for 1991 through 1993. cept of power projection of heavy tures and hopes to have many Ala., in which 47 people were If companies do not report all brces and globd reach will be more when the petitions are Law Requires Notification killed last September shortly after accidents as required, they could merely hypothetical. The com­ presented to the Clinton adAccordii%to Reddick, the St. a tug-barge struck and moved a Louis office has received data be subject to non-compliance mercial U.S.-fleet is a cost-effec­ ninistration on Maritime bridge. from several companies and penalties and could leave the tive source of auxiliary military Memorial Day in May. Presently, the House Mer­ Coast Guard with a mistaken sealift. In other action taken by foe chant Marine and Fisheries Com­ found indications of low report­ view of waterway operations. 'The message is that executive ing. He noted reporting waterway board, it urged Con­ mittee is considering several bills American ships, American gress to maintain accidents is required by federd foe ban on the whose purpose is to make the in­ The investigation is limited to shipyards and other supporting jxport of Alaskan oil, which has law. land waterwayssafer. These bills, the upper Mississippi River and industries—and American been in place and reaffirmed A Coast Guard official stated its tributaries which begins where seafarers, shipyard workers and which the SIU supports, would since 1973 when Alaska's North require boatmen to possess Coast that significant under-reporting the Mississippi River connects lose who labor in supporting ac­ Slope region was opened for ex­ Guard-issued merchant mariner of accidents could distort the with the Ohio, to St. Paul, Minn., tivities:—remain important to our ploration. The boani also called documents and demand that all agency's accident database and up the Illinois nearly to Chicago national defense today and will in on Congress and foe administra­ tugs and towboats carry naviga­ its perception of how risky the and along the Missouri to Sioux he future." tion to continue foe full funding nation's waterways are. Shipbuilding Addressed City, Iowa. Most of the nation's tional equipment. of the U.S. Merchant Marine Herberger listed Several Academy without changing its Reddick stated that once the major barge lines, plus mapy The scope of the investigation reasons for including fimds for >olicy of not charging students is limited only to personal in­ investigation has been concluded, smaller ones, operate through the oan guarantees for shipbuilding 1 uition. juries. "We are specifically the agency may summarize the St. Louis zone. IttvesUgatiott Continues into Train Deraiiment %X' I# • • -m-, USCG Explores Under-Reporting Of Mississippi Barge Accidents •' T �...i"; ^ v,' ", =r -.• .•-• •. •• •:'•• • • 8 SAB Approves Changes In Recertification Class Size •• =j" •' ^ -•-' 1 ^' "•'. •; " '• • •S- • ••••".•' '::\ • /: --i' ilMi7ffir 1994 SEAFARERS LOG '94 Brings Spate of Runaway Accidents Authorities are investigatin Marika 7 was owned by Atlantic recently for the Marika 7's "ex­ several recent incidents involvin Maritime Enterprises of Greece. cellent" condition. However, an account in the Three changes in the ship matically terminate and there­ runaway-registry vessels. The captain and five officers were January 4 edition of the Montreal ping rules have been approved fore will not need to be Greek, while the other 30 crew­ The U.S. Coast Guard is look newspaper La Presse differs with by the Seafarers Appeals reviewed after the usual six (6) ing into the cause of an acciden members were Filipino. Board. month period. in New Orleans in which a Hon According to published that assessment. The article states The first two measures, Ac duran-owned, Panamanian-fla: reports, the 20-year-old ship car­ that Dutch officials in Rotterdam SAB Action 370 tions 369 and 370, lower the inspected the Marika 7 on The Seafarers Appeals tanker allegedly hit and sank two ried three rubber life rafts, two number of Seafarers who wil Board acting under and pur­ docked grain barges. fiberglass canoes and six survival December 9. According to Reg Lanteigne, director of ship safety participate in the semi-annua suant to the Collective Bargain­ According to newspaper suits. bosun recertification ant ing Agreement between the reports, the 800-foot Eos collidec The Marika 7, built in Japan, for the Canadian Coast Guard, the steward recertification classes Union and the various Con­ with a fleet of moored barges in had taken on 150,000 tons of iron initial report listed the following beginning in 1994. tracted Employers, hereby the Mississippi River last month ore pellets in Quebec on Decem­ as deficient and in need of repairs: A total of six Seafarers wil takes the following action. at Nine Mile Point in New Or­ ber 27 and left for the Nether­ life rafts, life buoys, life jackets, be enrolled in each of the ses­ Whereas, by Action 181 and leans harbor. Two barges loade( lands. But the ship got caught in firefighting equipment, emergen­ sions. Augie Tellez, SIU vice Action 228 were promulgated with a combined 110,000 tons o: a storm with 40-lmot winds and cy planning procedures and president for contracts and col­ to establish training classes for com and wheat sank. At least one seas as high as 35 feet. bullheads. lective bargaining, said the the Recertification of Bosuns other barge apparently sustained The report further states that Officios from the Canadian downsizing was made because and Stewards, consisting of two damage. Coast Guard were quoted as most of the deficient conditions the classes are being restruc­ (2) classes a year. The Eos also was damagec saying that the ship appears to were corrected before the ship left tured. Whereas, by Action 370 this but it was not carrying any oi have sunk quickly and without Rotterdam, according to the "This will allow the students year's Steward Recertification cargo at the time of the accident any advance waming to the crew. newspaper. However, tfiere ap­ to have even more time with the classes have been decreased to On Febmary 9, a Coast Guarc The ensuing search, con­ parently is no known confirma­ instructors and to leam more six (6) members for each class cutter rescued two mariners more ducted from both the air and the tion that the faulty bulkheads that they will be able to take in 1994, terminating on than a day after their vessel—the sea, was hampered by continued were repaired.The ship was one back to the ships," Tellez noted. January 1,1995. Dominican-owned, Bahamian- bad weather. of six owned by the company. The third. Action 371, ex­ registered oil tanker Albioni— Runaway registries long have The Canadian Coast Guard did Therefore, the provisions tends for another six months the promulgated by SAB Action 233 caught fire, exploded and split in not receive any distress reports been known as a vehicle to escape length of time that members can shall be changed for the dura-^ half approximately 75 miles from the ship, other than an emer­ taxes, safety laws and other ship. gency signd from the automatic protective regulations. They are tion of1994. As this Action isfor southeast of Santo Domingo. Members with "A" books one year, this Action will auto­ Twenty-two other crewmem- signd box on Janu^ 1, indicat­ used as a device by shipowners to , can remain aboard a vessel for matically terminate and there­ bers had been rescued earlier, bu ing the vessel's position between pay a nominal fee to an agency 240 days or one round trip, fore will not need to be six more are presumed dead. Newfoundland and the British designated by a non-maritime na­ whichever is longer. Those with reviewed after the usual six (6) TheAlkioni was empty at the Isles. tion seeking to raise revenue and "B" books will continue be able month period. time of the explosion and was Reports in Lloyd's List quote thereby escape from a maritime to stay aboard ship for 180 days headed to Venezuela to load oil. an unidentified Atlantic Maritime nation's safety regulations, pro­ SAB Action 371 or one round trip, whichever is Crewmembers reportedly were Enterprises spokesman as saying cedures and inspections, tax laws The Seafarers Appeals fighting a small fire when the longer. he company had been com­ and higher wages paid to crew­ Action 371 will be in effect Board acting under and pur­ blast occurred. mended by vessel inspectors members. until August when the board suant to the Collective Bargain­ That case also is under inves­ will evaluate the employment ing Agreement between the tigation. Jnion and the various Con­ availability at that time. Meanwhile, the Greek-owned, The Seafarers Appeals tracted Employers, hereby Maltese-flag tanker Cosmas A Board is composed of repre­ takes the following action. was sunk by its owners in late Whereas, by Action 327, Ac­ January in the South China Sea^ sentatives from both the SIU and its contracted companies. tion 331, Action 361 and Action two weeks after a major ship­ The complete text of all three 367 were promulgated to in­ board explosion. The U.S. Coast Guard spections may be done simul­ crease the amount of time Class actions is printed below. The vessel was loaded with recently announced that it will taneously. A" seaman could remain 23,000 metric tons of cmde oil increase substantially its inspec­ SAB Action 369 The switch to ABS perform­ aboard their assigned vessels when the blast took place. The tions of foreign-flag ships. The Seafarers Appeals -or two hundred forty (240) ing the inspections will begin cause still is being investigated, At the same time, U.S.-flag voluntarily, under a program Board acting under and pur­ suant to the Collective Bargain­ days or one (1) round trip as is the extent of environmental vessel inspections will be trans­ aimed at owners of U.S.-flag \yhichever was longer and ferred to the private, nonprofit deep-draft commercial ships ing Agreement between the Class "B" seaman could damage. Ten crewmembers (one Greek American Bureau of Shipping that already are classed by ABS. Union and the various Con­ remain aboard their assigned tracted Employers, hereby vessel for one hundred eighty and nine Indonesians) are (ABS), although the Coast "Only ABS is [handling presumed dead; 24 others were Guard still will oversee the in­ U.S.-flag ship inspections takes the following action. 180) days or one (1) round trip rescued. spections. ABS is a classifica­ formerly done by the Coast Whereas, by Action 181 and whichever was longer and tion society based in New York. Guard] because only ABS Action 228 were promulgated 36 Die as Freighter Sinks Whereas, available employ­ These actions, tentatively meets our requirements," said to establish training classes for ment continues at the same high Earlier in the new year, scheduled to go into effect this a spokesman for the Coast the Recertification of Bosuns 'evel. another ranaway-registry mishap summer, are spurred by the and Stewards, consisting of two Therefore, the provisions cost 36 crewmembers their lives. Maritime Regulatory Reform Guard. (2) classes a year. The freighter Afartfajf 7 cap­ promulgated by SAB Action Whereas, by this Action 369 '27, Action 331, Action 361 and sized and sank on January 1 ap­ Initiative, which began in the The FOC Factor this year's Bosun Recertifica­ Action 367shall continue in full proximately 900 miles off the spring of 1992 and included a Although the Coast Guard is tion classes have been force and effect for another six coast of Newfoundland, ap­ lengthy self-evaluation by the not limiting its inspections of decreased to six (6) members '6) months, effective February parently taking the entire crew to Coast Guard of its goals and foreign-flag ships to flag-ofoperations. In that study, the for each class in 1994, ter­ 5,1994 at which time employ­ their deaths. convenience (FOC) vessels, the Canadian and U.S. authorities, agency concluded that foreignminating January 1, 1995. ment availability will again be dismal safety records of FOC Therefore, the provisions evaluated to determine whether along with a few commercial flag vessels (including many operations apparently were a operating under runaway promulgated by SAB Action 186 or not the provisions specified ships, searched for several days in factor in the agency's decision shall be changed for the dura­ in SAB Action 327, Action 331, hopes of finding survivors, but to registries) which deliver most of to broaden its scrutiny of foreign the United States' imported oil tion of1994. As this Action is for and Action 361 should continue no avail. Only one or two empty have the worst operation and ships. life rafts were recovered. one year, this action will auto­ or be terminated. management. FOC registries long have The Liberian-flag, 900-foot "We're finding more and been known as a vehicle to es­ more ... the flag state and the cape taxes, safety laws and other owner and the class society are protective regulations. They not doing everything they're were dubbed runaway registries A dozen Seafarers last month symbolic acts were intended to to fire workers who are engaged supposed to be doing," said an by American maritime unions in joined in the Teamsters Union's draw attention not only to the in a lawful strike, has been passed official from the Coast Guard's the 1940s because of their use of three-year-old fight against Diamond situation, but also to the by the U.S. House of Repre­ Office of Marine Safety, a device for shipowners to pay a Diamond Walnut Growers-^the need for passage of federal legis­ sentatives, and the Senate is Security and Environmental nominal fee to an agency desig­ California-based company which lation which prohibits the per­ scheduled to take up the measure Protection, according to The nated by a non-maritime nation in 1991 "permanently replaced" manent hiring of scabs. sometime during this session of Journal of Commerce. seeking to raise revenue and roughly 400 union workers after The following Seafarers, led Congress, although there still thereby escape from a maritime contract talks stalled. by SIU President Michael Sacco, remains the threat of a filibuster. nation's safety regulations, pro­ Reducing Downtime The SIU members marched in took part in the rally: Ed Doruth, That threat exists despite the cedures and inspections, tax Shipowners will pay for the Miami with Teamsters and other Peter Funk, Dement Edwards, fact that a majority of senators— inspections by ABS, but that ex­ laws and higher wages paid to trade unionists outside an Kris Hopkins, Chris Caviness, as well as President Clinton—has pense may be offset by less crewmembers. Entemann's Bakery, which has a Scott Mitchell, Richard Pres- voiced approval of the legisla­ downtime for the vessels. That Part of that escape is ac­ contract with Diamond. At the son,.Martin Thurston, David tion, which would relieve the is because ABS already con­ complished through the ease of rally, AFL-CIO President Lane Scott, Richard Fritze, Ray United States of the dubious dis­ ducts private inspections re­ involving several nations in the Kirkland and several other union Marquis and Alan Less. tinction of being the only major quired by insurers and bankers. operation of one vessel, thereby officials intentionally staged acts The Workplace Fairness Act, industrialized nation in the world Under the new guidelines, both of civil disobedience and were ar­ which would close a loophole in that allows striking workers to be the government and private in­ creating red tape and enforce­ ment difficulties for authorities. rested for misdemeanors. The U.S. labor law and make it illegal fired. Coast Guard To Check More Foreign Vessels ''!k-k -'k'--k:r• Seafarers Join Striking Dianwnii Workers . ^ �- 1 ^-rr mm • • •; -ii,- <• •••"iy*- ; " ' •• •'"•;:•. .„> ^ " r . MARCH 1994 SEAFARERS LOB EAFARERS who sail aboard 80 S SlU-contracted Eshing boats endure a wide variety of temperatures and seas to get their jobs done. The SIU fishermen crew the six-man boats, known as draggers, that sail from the port of New Bedford, Mass. The draggers pull nets that run along the bot­ tom of the ocean to catch the groundfish which inhabit these lower depths. Groundfish include yellow tail flounder, cod and haddock. The Seafarers usually fish on the Georges Banks, off the New England coast, but to catch these various types of fish Aey sometimes must use different nets and go into different areas. New Bedford Port Agent Henri Fran­ cois said the fishing boats travel 100 miles or more out to sea and fish for up to 12 days at a time. If they are fishing for more than nine days, they must tie up in port for four days. The vessels then may sail on the fifth day for another expedition. For this group of Seafarers, there is no relief. They sail all four seasons of the year. General maintenance on the fishing vessels is done while in port between trips. During this brief period, basic repairs are done to nets, winches, electronics and radars. Francois noted boats rarely need to stay in port for longer periods of time. "They all work together so that they can be sailing once again on 9 the fifth day," the port agent said. Many of the fishermen are in­ dividuals who have emigrated from Por­ tugal or who are of Portuguese descent. All of the fishermen live in the New Bedford area. "In the summers, most of the fisher­ men take turns and return to Portugal for a brief period of time to visit their families and fnends. This is usually the only break they have each year," Fran­ cois said. Belonging to the SIU provides security and benefits not available to non-union fishermen. Francois noted that along with the many normal benefits, such as pension and welfare plans and grievance procedures, the SIU contract addresses issues that are unique to the fishing industry. For example, a fisherman's pay depends on thecatch and expenses of the boat he works on. At the end of each voyage on an SIU fishing vessel, fisher­ men have a right to inspect the boat's settlement sheet. That document out­ lines the boat's expenses, such as fuel and ice to keep the fish fresh, the weight of the catch and the price it brought. Each crewmember receives a percentage of the proceeds. Francois said that about 90 percent of the non-union fishing boats do not allow the crewmembers to see the settlement sheet. • •• " "M- • ' r 0: MirThe Southern Crusader s\\s tied up In port while crewmembers get ready for the next fishing expedition. 1-: Crewmembers board the Sea Siren, ready to catch yellow tail flounder, cod and haddock. ' •il'" •i: Deckhands Jaime Salgado (left) and Jose Olivara prepare the Crusader's nets before leaving the port for a 12-day voyage. Crusader Captairi Amilcar Esteves unloads boxes of supplies in the galley. .•%:' • 'A •; ' "r/ •A- - Reelina out the nets aboard the Checking the Sea Siren's en- General maintenance on the fishing vessels is done while in port Sea Siren is Deckhand Alfredo gines is Engineer Manuel between trips. Above, Cook Mario da Costa and Mate Jose Jauardo Coimbra Pereira. pull out the Sea Siren's nets to check for needed repairs. -r.oc.; ' M ' "' ' Stocking the Crusader's galley with plenty of bread and soup is Cook Lieinio Esteves. ' •: ' ' '' ^5®;- �.•- 10 SEAFARBRSLOG T. ' MARCH 1994 Seafarers Kick Off 1994 Tuberculosis Testing Program The first two months of the clinic physician will use a sma program is necessary. Seafarers Welfare Plan's efforts to needle to put testing materia The SIU medical department confront whatis becoming a nation called tuberculin, under the skin is moving rapidly to deal with any al health problem—the leemer- of the forearm. The Seafarer must potential threat to the member­ gence of tuberculosis (TB)—have return to the SIU clinic within 4i ship through precautionary gotten off to a good start to 72 hours following the test to measures such as the skin test, Dr. Kennneth Miller, medical have his or her forearm examined early detection and treatment as director for the plan, told the for a reaction. Seafarers may pic well as the collection of data to Seafarers LOG that the new tes up their renewed clinic card at the better analyze any trends or cir­ ing procedures for possible ex time the skin test is read. cumstances relating to Seafarers posure to the TB germ has been If a bump the size of a penci and the disease. smoothly implemented by the eraser or bigger appears on the "Due to our rapid address of SIU clinic system. arm where the tul^rculin was the growing concern over tuber­ "The program is proceeding placed, the test is positive. This culosis, we are heading off any very well," Miller said, means the person may have been potential threat of the disease to preliminary review of results to exposed to the TB germ and may Seafarers," concluded Miller. date reveal no significan require preventive treatment to The TB screening program problems for Seafarers." will remain in effect throughout avoid getting the full disease. Interviews conducted with 1994. Miller noted that the data P*S? Reading the Test ,-":£-;i^i''. •'i 'l members at several ports confirm collected are being put into a The TB skin test and a ches computerized data analysis pro­ Miller's statement. Vf^Vr^tE' • X-ray are given as part of the gram for study. In 1995, the medi­ "The test is nothing much, Chief Pumpman Craig Croft sits still while Nurse Tammy Evans (right) member's annual physical. said QMED Kevin DeSue cal department will examine the places the testing material, tuberculin, under the skin on his forearm. Dr. If a Seafarer tests positive, he data to determine if tuberculosis "When you go in for your physi­ or she should seek advice and treat­ is of significant concern for Susan Vogel looks on after explaining the TB testing procedure to Croft. cal, the doctor puts the testing material under your skin and you ment from a physician who knows Seafarers. come back to have the test read a his or her past medical history anc How TB Spreads few days later. I thitik the testing can determine what is best for that is worth it just to know where you particular individual. If a member TB is a disease spread by stand with TB. Maybe you had no is found to have active TB, then he germs called tubercle bacilli tha idea that you had been exposec or she will not be permitted to ship can float in the air. The germs are AMO Members Back and now treatment is available,' out until the infection is treated. spread if a person infected with added DeSue, who sails from the However, a positive skin test does active tuberculosis of the lungs Split from MEBA not necessarily mean the Seafarer coughs of sneezes into the air. Members of the American Maritime Officers (AMO) last month port of Jacksonville. "My test was negative... I feel las active TB. The TB bacteria are so tiny that overwhelmingly voted to authorize their officials to secede from the "The program will determine they dry out and float on air cur­ National Marine Engineers Beneficial Association (MEBA). secure just knowing that But if my if an individual has been exposec rents for long periods in an The AMO membership indicated they would approve the split if test was positive, I would not be to TB in the past. Based upon this enclosed space. TB germs are not their officials deemed such action necessary in order to ensure job upset because treatment is simple and must be taken to avoid the ftill determination, the individual anc likely to be transmitted through security and to protect the union's independence. Currently, the his or her own doctor will decide personal items associated with in­ AMO is one of six autonomous affiliates of National MEBA. disease," noted the QMED. DEU Jaime Brown, who sails whether or not further treatment fected individuals, such as cloth­ In a release issued by the union, the recent vote authorizing from the port of Houston, thinks is required," stated Miller. ing, bedding, toilet seats, secession was 1,158-42. the program is beneficial for showers, drinking glasses, eating CDC Guidelines Seafarers. "I think the program is Items checked by doctors in­ materials or any other items a per­ really neat in that it helps us out a clude the size of the reaction to son with the clinical disease may lot by letting us know if we have the skin test, age and medical his­ have touched. Most people who breathe in Final Rule Mandates .•/•r •. ever been exposed to the germs. tory of the patient and if the in­ The test itself is not painful at all dividual is part of a high-risk the bacteria do not become in­ Spill Removal Gear and theclinic people take the time group. fected when exposed to TB. Of Vessels in U.S. waters transporting oil as bulk cargo must carry to explain the TB program and The doctors follow a specific those who do, most do not appropriate equipment for preventing or responding to oil spills, testing," he stated. set of guidelines established by develop the active diseas^ but the according to a final rule recently published by the U.S. Coast Guard. he Centers for Disease Control germs may lie dormant in the The rule establishes regulations mandated by the Oil Pollution Act Testing for Seafarers and Prevention (CDC) to deter­ cells lining the lungs where the of 1990. The SIU tuberculosis testing mine whether a person needs to )ody may store them. The body's The required equipment includes absorbent materials, pumps, program, which began on January begin preventive therapy. immune system traps the bacteria emergency towing bridles, deck edge equipment to help prevent 1, is designed to accumulate data in If Ae doctor determines that with special germ fighters. From on-deck spills from going over the side, and appropriate hoses to Older to research effects on Seafarers medication is necessary, an in­ lis point on, a lifelong balance transfer cargo from one tank to another during an emergency. of the now more widespread disease. dividual will be prescribed an an- letween the infection and the In addition, the rule requires that operators have access to a The program requires apainless skin ibiotic known as INH to take luman body's defense against the computer program designed to calculate the vessel's stability in the test at die time of a member's armual once per day for six months. This infection continues. An in- event of damage. 1994 physical to identify if the jreventive treatment takes at least ividual who has dormant TB Seafarer has been exposed to TB. six months to a year to kill all the lacteria in his or her lungs is not The goal of the new program is to tuberculosis germs. Unless the contagious. Only those with ac­ protect members from thedisease by germs are eliminated with the tive IB who remain untreated are New Boxes Zap Pests, testing for possible exposure to TB jroper medication, a person will ^capable of infecting others. germs. 'It is very important to note Keep Produce Fresh continue to have the TB bacteria When members go to their in his or her body. hat this is not a disease that is The U.S. military's food supplier recently finished a year-long respective clinics for dieir annual Miller noted that a person with easily transmitted or rapidly in­ study with controlled-atmosphere containers, and the results arc physical, they will be asked to fill latent infection will be eligible fectious," said Miller. "The skin jromising. out a simple questionnaire (which to ship out with the understanding test might reveal that a person Experiments by the Defense Personnel Support Center yielded a includes such information as age, that he or she is responsible for may have been exposed to some­ chemical-free method of killing insects such as fruit flies and mites place of birth and places of travel, taking the prescribed medications one with TB 10 or 15 years ago, while prolonging the shelf-life of fruit and vegetable cargoes. Ship­ as well as family and personal as directed by the doctor. lut they may never develop die board containers were specially equipped to maintain a prescribed history of tuberculosis) and sub­ Because Seafarers live in close active disease," he added. mixture of gases and temperature; the controlled atmosphere killed mit to a skin test. quarters and deal with the same TB germs arc not transmitted insects in the shipments while slowing the aging process of the food. The only way to tell if a person oeople day in and day out for trough casual contact A person The gases normally included high levels of nitrogen and smaller has been exposed to the germs many months at a time, the SIU must be in close contact for a long amounts of carbon dioxide and oxygen. associated with the disease is medical department determined leriod of time with an infected in­ The atmosphere-control equipment costs about $500 per con­ through this painless skin test. A hat this TB research and control dividual to become affected by the tainer. lerm. Tuberculosis, inactive for J/*1^ many years in the United States, once again is on the rise. The Na­ tional Institute of Allergy and In­ Harsh Winter Weather Plays Havoc fectious Diseases (NIAID), a On North Atlantic Shipping Lanes federal health agency involved in Ice is blocking the most direct shipping route between New York the research and development of and Northern Europe, thanks to more than 15 winter storms that have guidelines for treatment of infec­ ashed across the northeastern United States and eastern Canada. tious diseases, cites various Extending more than 300 miles into the ocean from Newreasons for the resurgence of bundland, ice blocks several points in the shipping lanes, forcing ^B, including the emergence of Vorth Atlantic vessels to sail further south in order to avoid the drug resistant strains of the or- dangers. anisni, increased immigration Maritime officials are calling the outbreak of severe winter to the U.S. of people from weather the worst they have seen in nearly 20 years. Gale force winds countries with a high occur­ with seas as high as 25 feet have been constant since January. Vessels rence of the disease and trans­ are monitoring water temperatures for sudden drops that would This shows a positive reaction to the TB testing material, tuberculin, mission among persons in reveal an iceberg is near. Weather forecasters are predicting a break placed under the skin on the forearm. crowded living environments. ater this month with the arrival of spring. m- .v.;/-./- �'*"/,•• •.[.^:r"r'v'^-?^¥^-'V' ' •• •'- -'''t.-i} •' The zebra mussel Is not particular about what surface It attaches to. The adaptable organism sticks to ships, tugboats and more. Shown above Is the effect of the striped mollusk on a car which was submerged upside down In Lake Erie for a year. / ZEBRA MUSSEL ?••• Costly Spread of Zebra Mussels AfHects Shipping, Other Industries ill: Mt "o-:. • ,. .V.l.,.,J,i m . /•I' ' The shipping industry has tanks are completely pirmped out, Zebra mussels are small (less known for years about the costly said Noel Bassett of the engineer­ than 2 inches in length), but they and widespread problems caused ing department of American reproduce so often th^ their spread This photo Illustrates the stages In growth of the zebra mussel. A ruler by zebra mussels. The tiny, hard- Steamship. "I haven't seen anything in the U.S. has not been curb^ by (In millimeters) Is shown for scale. shelled organisms first arrived in yet that would be considered a sig­ biological factors. Each one can the Great Lakes from Europe's nificant problem, but we're certainly produce tens of thousands of off­ lions of dollars have been spent of strategies are being considered Caspian Sea in 1986 in the ballast aware of the situation and we're spring each year, and the clam-like annually by industries and for controlling zebra mussels: water of a European tanker, and dealing with it. Otherwise, you creatures congregate in clusters as municipalities bordering the heat, other chemical treatments within a few years they had in­ would think they would grow quite great as hunch^ of thousands per Great Lakes in the U.S. and (besides chlorine), filters, coat­ Canada in attempts to control the ings and others." filtrated all of the Lakes. well in the tanks." square meter. Currently, the primary control The mussels, which are non"In terms of the hulls, it's not Among other species, ducks, zebra mussels. Researchers from as far west as California also have method is treatment with edible, use sticky, elastic-like too bad," said Scott Noble of Or- crayfish and fieshwater drum fish joined in the battle—an interna­ chlorine, although this is costly secretions to attach themselves in gulf. "But down the road, we do feed on mussels, but they have had tional conference of engineers, and carries potentially harmful layers to almost any surface, and anticipate a buildup" which may at best a nominal effect on the zebra biologists, company repre­ side effects for fish and wildlife. they do not easily let go. They decrease fuel efficiency. mussel population in the U.S. Other possible treatments in­ have caused numerous difficul­ By contrast, many of the zebra sentatives, federal officials and Growing Problem others concerned with the prob­ clude thermal shock, ultraviolet ties, including disrupting naviga­ mussels' other predators flourish lem took place last year in Toron­ radiation, electrical fields, acous­ tion by causing marker buoys to While the zebra-mussel prob­ in European waters, which partly to, and another is scheduled for tic shock and gamma irradiation. sink, ruining fishing nets and lem persists in shipping circles, it explains why the mussels pose this month in Madison, Wis. grounds, fouling beaches with also is spreading to new ter­ less of a problem overseas. Heading South Sometime this year, the U.S. sharp shells, and blocking water ritories and affecting other in­ In America, the difficulties are If folks around the Great Lakes intake systems of many dustries. For example, during the numerous and wide ranging. For Coast Guard's environmental safety branch is scheduled to at least were getting used to the municipalities, utilities and fac­ flooding in the Midwest last year, example, three years ago, workers present to Congress an extensive fight, it recently has surprised tories. The mollusks also have im­ surging waters on the Mississippi at a power plant near Detroit—as on zebra mussel control people as far south as St Louis and report peded ships by causing increased and Illinois rivers and their well as the facility's customers—got options (including a look at ship­ Louisville, Ky. and as far east as die drag, thereby lowering fuel ef­ tributaries carried and dumped a relatively sm^ sampling of the ping patterns), mandated by the Hudson River in New York. Pub­ ficiency. In addition, they harm na­ substantial amounts of zebra enormity of these problems; Mas­ Nonindigenous Aquatic lished reports recently documented tive mussels and fish by consuming mussel larvae in areas where the sive clusters of zebra mussels aU but Nuisance Prevention and Control the dangerous organism's spread to dangerous mollusks otherwise sealed an intake canal, through large amounts of algae. Act of 1990. That legislation points as far as five miles from the SlU-contracted companies might never have reached. Zebra which the plant's generators nor­ nearest river. directed, among other actions, a which operate vessels in the af­ mussels now also infest areas in mally draw coolant water fiom the of the introduction of In addition, newspaper articles fected areas appear thus far to several states that they were not Raisin River at a rate of mcHO flian a study aquatic nuisance species by ves­ note that zebra mussels threaten million gallons per minute. Sub­ sels entering waters of the U.S., have avoided any critical expected to reach for years. to destroy the rare native mussels Experts agree this is a multi- sequent removal of the mussels fiom problems stemming from the of the Illinois River. Already, the other than the Great Lakes. mussels, thanks in part to preven­ million dollar problem, and one the intake canal and other parts of the National Oceanic and Atmos­ Additionally, a House panel tive actions. Still, their operations biologist who has monitored the plant accounted for more than 50 recently authorized $2 million for pheric Administration reports invasion dubbed it "a major tons of the oiganisms. have been affected. that zebra mussels practically a federal study into ballast water For the past several years, mil"During the winter, the ballast ecological disaster." technologies, in an effort to have eliminated 18 species of na­ )revent the spread of aquatic tive clams in Lake St. Clair. )ests such as the zebra mussel. One government agency es­ The legislation now goes to the timates Aat ongoing studies and Mouse floor.) attempts to eliminate (or at least 'There are a lot of people deal­ contain) zebra mussels from the ing with this issue," said Bob Great L^es and from the newly 'eoples of the U.S. Fish and infested areas will cost billions of Wildlife Service. "A whole range dollars. Zebra Mussel Distribution in the United States Shaded areas denote state with zebra mussel infestation. / The tiny zebra mussels use their sticky secretions to attach themsel­ ves In layers to almost any surface, In this case, a larger shell. - • J:: ••,' • �'• * -r. •'•7^ • '"i"' f M. P- 12 MARCH 1994 SEAFARERS LOG ft-v - ••'<"• ;• W-/ I; - '- 'Learn While You Work D eck department members aboard the LNG Aries work constantly to complete various projects that ultimately improve the look and productivity of the vessel. "Under the direction of Bosun Billie Darley, we not only got a lot done but learned so much each time," recalled AB Peter Funk, who ships out of the port of Jacksonville. "I've sailed for 19 years and have learned many things. Working with Bosun Darley—who has sailed for nearly 40 years—^amazed me. All the knowledge and experience he shared was very rewarding, and we accomplished quite a bit while on the Aries" noted the 1975 Piney Point graduate. Among the projects completed by Darley, Funk and the rest of the deck department include the painting^dchippingofthetolingchainandgra/ngon the bow, chipping and painting of the deck and replacing wires on the crane and the gangway. '$k. '/" -.r; l'::;fv'::--1^- WPP'-'. Getting fresh vegetables out of the refrigerator for use in the salad bar is SA Mike Taraba. ^ ^ ^ Bosun Billie Darley has been sailing for nearly 40 years. "Bosun Darley is an excellent cable splicer. If you are into this sort of thing, which I am, you could say that he has it down to a work of art. His splices look like the ones right out of the big factories," added Funk. The deck department member plans to attend the bosun recertification course at the Lundeberg School in the near future. "Everything I have become and everything I have, I feel I owe the SIU and the education that I have received through sailing and upgrading at the school. Anything I can do for the union or to make myself a better union man, I will do," said Funk. The Aries, like other LNG vessels operated by Energy Transportation Corporation, sails between Indonesia, where the ships load liquified natural gas, and Japan, where it is offloaded. Round trips on the carriers average one per month, '1' • •* Vr Steward/Baker Bob Brown relaxes with a magazine after a long day in the galley. After chipping and painting with Bosun Darley and other deck department members, AB Ralph Neal sneaks a piece of cake in the galley. More than 20 items are prepared for the saiad bar by galley gang members (from left) SA Cindy Winter, SA John Damphier, Chief Cook Aibert Fretta and SA Mike Taraba. rppr^'Ki:. ' ''iP':- Crewmembers aboard the U4G Aries gather in the crew lounge for a union meeting led by Bosun Dariey. Chief Ctook Albert Fretta poses with OS Chad Rodriguez in the rness hall before dinner is served. �MARCH 1994 WliFARERS LOG ii Union Officers and P.R, Members Confer en Wide Range of issues h,, The new year is off to another plan procedures. ^ hey also busy start for Seafarers in the focused on legislative issues Puerto Rico area. Whether aboard which directly affect the member­ tugs, barges, deep-sea vessels or ship, including a bill to rebuild the around the docks, SIU members U.S.-flag fleet. are maintaining active work 'The meetings were very in­ schedules. formative," said Louie Perez, Despite the full work load, bosun for Sea-Land and a 25-year members recently found time to member of the SIU. meet with SIU Executive Vice Bustling Port President Joseph Sacco, SIU Vice SlU-crewed Sea-Land and President-Contracts Augie Tellez PRMMI ships from Jacksonville, and Seafarers Welfare Plan Ad- Fla., Lake Charles, La. and ministrator Nick Marrone. Philadelphia transport commer­ During a two-day period in cial goods to the island, serving as January, the union officials met a lifeline from the mainland. with members working with SeaMeanwhile, Crowley also had Land and Crowley, numerous tug boats in the San Juan and Sancaptains and boat crews, and the turce area assist in docking opera­ crew of the Sea-Land Crusader. tions and also handle other port In each session. Seafarers and functions. Still other tugs are used the union officials discussed to transport fuel barges along the In Puerto Rico, members of the Seafarers and waterfront union officers meet with SIU officials from various sections of the most coast, as well as to Central headquarters. From left are ILA member Jose Lopez, Crane Maintenance Electrician (CME) Rafael Vergara, recent collective bargaining America and the U.S. Virgin Is­ Recertified Bosun Luis Perez, SIU Executive VP Joseph Sacco, CME Robert Tompkins, AB Juan Lopez, SIU Welfare Plan Administrator Nick Marrone, AB Antonio Rodriguez and SIU VP Augie Tellez. agreement and reviewed medical lands. , . -1- • 'K f: •V. ' 'if ' ...f'S • Some of the crew of the Sea-Land Crusader pose for photo with SIU officials in galley. Seafarer R. Candelario (right) and other Crowley SIU members confer with union officials. Holidays Are a Family Affair At the JCLchsonville SIU Hall Seafarers and their families gathered at the Jacksonville hall on December 23 to enjoy good food, fellowship and holiday fun at the aimual Christmas party. Approximately 100 SIU members and their families and friends were served a holiday dinner prepared by a galley gang headed by Chief Cook WiUie Grant. The meal was served buf­ fet-style and consisted of the traditional turkey with giblet gravy, Virginia baked ham with pineapple sauce, London broil, candied yams, macaroni and cheese, rice, string beans, com, hot rolls and assorted desserts. Other steward department %1k !. members who helped in the preparations include Chief Cooks Roual Gotay, Charles Fincher and Abraham Mar­ tinez; SA Almus Allen and DEULydell Grant. Children of all ages were able to provide Santa Claus with an official gift list. BOsun Paul Butterworth dressed the part of the jolly man in red. Joining the Seafarers for the festivities were representatives from other North Florida area labor unions, including the In­ ternational Longshoremen's As­ sociation, Sheet Metal Workers, Operating Engineers (lUOE), Iron Workers and the Electrical Workers. Jacksonville Port Agent Tony McQuay provided the Seafarers LOG with the photos accompanying this article. Going for a second helping from the buffet is Recertified Bosun Frank Costango. QMED Pedro Santiago and his three daughters savor their meals before sampling from the dessert tray. / Ralphine Grant, wife of Chief Cook Elizabeth Butler, pensioner Leon Butler's wife, poses for a photo Willie Grant returns to her table to with VincentMcQuay, son of Jacksonville Port Agent Tony McQuay. enjoy dessert among friends. Relaxing with his wife and two daughters is AB James Porter. • if �"•K • 'ife•>^ '- 'i » .-U. tv- • . 'I;': •• . ^.V ••-; .^'.v ••:•-• -• r- -ll-:.- . ^^v7•• ,% - If SEAFARERSLOG • Vfr . -v.- ft 14 Pena Says DOT Will Work Congress In Effort inrovo Inland Safety include not only crew size but also the hours worked, he added. "Clearly, all inland towing obstructing or damaging an aid to vessels should have someone navigation because the present aboard who is knowledgeable in levels have proven to be too low the operation and maintenance of to justify extensive prosecution. the engineering systems and an Pena said bridges that pose an operator competent to pilot the unreasonable obstruction to vessel through the waters in navigation should be repaired or which it is traveling," he noted. replaced. He referred to a survey Pena acknowledged, "Most that noted between 1980 and 1991 accidents in all modes of 773 tows reported striking bridges. transportation are caiised by The Department of Transpor­ human error." He related Coast tation is implementing those Guard data that nearly three out of proposals that can beltaken every five marine casualties on without rulemaking or l^sla- the inland waterways between tion, he said. Already under 1980 and 1991 were caused by review are such items as the cur­ human error. riculum of maritime radar courses Because of this, he noted the and whether these classes reflect department has implemented its state-of-the-art technology and drug testing policy as well as the operating procedures. Coast Guard's alcohol testing problem as means to lessen the Crew Size Concerns chances of human error. Besides the steps summarized above, the secretary called on the Need for Schools subcommittee to address other is­ Joining Pena at the witness sues of concem. table was Rear Admiral Arthur "We should examine the ade^ Henn, chief of the Coast Guard quacy and effectiveness of our Office of Marine Safety, Security manning and inspection require­ ments and look at whether the and Environmental Protection. During the question and answer laws for all other commercial ves­ session following Pena's sels on inspection and manning remarks, he turned to Henn for a should apply to the inland water­ to Rep. Blanche response way towing indusl^," he said. Such an examination should Lambert's (D-Ark.) concerning Continued from page 3 the need to establish schools or training centers in order to upgrade boatmen. "What we see for the future is a need for ground-schools, a need for simulators," Henn said 'Ten years ago, we couldn't do it; today we can." He pointed out that there are schools, like the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Educa­ tion in Piney Point, Md., that pro­ vide Coast Guard-accredited training with simulators in place. Rep. Blanche Lambert (D-Ark.) in­ quires on the status of available schools and simulators like the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education to train boatmen from around the U.S. Chairman Gerry Studds (DMass.) of the House Merchant Marine and Fisheries Committee questions the reason inland boat­ men are not required to have mer­ chant mariner documents. "Every other segment of the maritime industry is inspected," Studds noted. The subcommittee has before it two bills dealing with inland safety. H.R. 1915, the Inland Documenta­ tion Bill, calls for all boatmen sail­ ing on the inland waterways aboard vessels of more than five gross to hold Coast Gu^-issued merchant mariner documents. The other bill, the Towing Vessel Navigational Safety Act (H.R.3282), would require all in­ land waterway vessels to be equipped with marine charts, navigational publications, com­ pass, radar and fathometer. It also would require boatmen to be profi­ cient in the use of such equipment. Sources indicate that efforts are underway to merge the bills along with Pena's suggestions into one piece of legislation. Review Current Practices In opening the hearing. Rep. Gerry Studds (D-Mass.), chair­ man of the House Merchant Marine and Fisheries Committee, referred to a Coast Guard statistic that revealed there was an average of nearly three accidents per day between 1980 and 1991 involving uninspected towing vessels. He listed four accidents that have drawn headlines since the first of the year involving such vessels: the oil spill off San Juan Seafarers who attended the upgraded his papers. "Why caused by the Morris J. Berman, February 24 federal court hear­ should we have to pay for our another railroad bridge knocked ing to ban fees on U.S. Coast documents?" out of alignment by a barge near Guard-issued merchant mariner Wilmington's Herman Amelia, La., a collision between documents (z-cards) and marine Mauzer, an engine department the tug Edward Bisso and the licenses left the courtroom with member, said, "If they can tax ferry St. John near New Orleans, a unanimous decision: they us, then they can tax people and the sinking of the John J.D. "^should not have to pay the working on trains and planes. near Ashland, Ky. government in order to have This opens the bam door for jobs. others." These members were part of The Seafarers said they back­ ed the union's court fight and a group of more than 25 that their opposition echoed the Seafarers who witnessed the arguments voiced in the union's complete hearing. said the agency has wide discre­ sociated with mariner document­ lawsuit against the fees. AB Joe Gustafson, also Continued from page 3 tionary powers to set fees and that ing and licensing would have to from the port of New York, QMED Richard Buchanan precision," Frulla told the judge. it acted reasonably and within be revised. stated he was proud that the SIU wondered after the hearing if the The judge also asked theCoast "But the Coast Guard owes more government guidelines in cal­ was waging this fight. "I've 29 percent of the Coast Guard to your honor and the merchant culating the charges for services Guard's attorney when the agen­ been with this union for many overhead figure was another "way associated with die issuance of cy had last updated its informa­ mariners" than guesses. years," noted the port of San to milk more money out of us." The Coast Guard case in be­ mariner documents and licenses. tion used in determining the fees. Francisco member. "This is Before the fees were imple­ Regarding the 29 percent Wohlenhaus answered that the another example of how the SIU mented in a final mling by the half of the user fee program was presented by Renee M. Wohlen- overhead charge, Wohlenhaus agency's calculations were based fights for the good of its mem­ Coast Guard, thousands of mer­ haus, an attorney for the U.S. Jus­ said it covers such matters as on 1990 data. "But this is 1994," bership." chant mariners had protested the tice Department, the government "legislative staff, budget staff and said Judge Oberdorfer. Wohlen­ "It's not fair that they have to scheme in comments filed with haus argued that the agency in­ department which is responsible personnel at headquarters." tax the American merchant the agency. for defending all other government Throughout the presentations tended to review its data annually marine to go to work,'' said AB During the period in which agencies when they are sued. by the attorneys for both the SIU but that the final rule setting the WlUiam Soto, who sails from the Coast Guard issued a notice and the Coast Guard, the judge fees had only been issued in 1993 the port of New York. of a proposed mle on fees to be Gov't Says Seamen Benefit frequently interrupted with ques­ and thus it had not begun a review As he spoke, others nodded collected for marine documents process as yet. Wohlenhaus argued that mer­ tions. in approval. and licenses, vigorous protests The judge asked counsel for chant seamen and boatmen are Adding his displeasure over to the plan also were lodged by Judge: Age of Data? the Coast Guard to provide the the Coast Guard ruling was the SIU. the sole beneficiaries of the documenting and licensing prac­ Judge Oberdorfer asked the court with information on David Dorrell, a boatman from However, the Transportation tice. She said other laws and counsel for the SIU what the whether the public would have a the port of Houston. Department agency largely ig­ regulations, such as those setting plaintiffs would seek if the fee- chance for input in the review "Airline pilots don't have to nored the objections raised to boiler pressure, are directed setting process was sent back to process. The Coast Guard's attor­ pay for their licenses," noted the proposal. On April 19,1993, toward safe navigation and ac­ the agency for fixing. Frulla ney wrote in response that the Dorrell, who in the last year has it put the final mle in effect. crue to the public benefit. responed that the entire procedure agency proposed to conduct in made three payments to the At that point, the SIU filed its The Coast Guard's attorney used to calculate the costs as- secret any review of the fees if federal agency when he has lawsuit seeking to ban the fees. there was no change from their current levels. However, if the Coast Guard intended to change the fees, it would allow public input, the agency's attorney wrote. It is estimated by the SIU's attorneys that the ju%e will rule on the case within the next few months. SIU Executive Vice President Joseph Sacco, in dis­ cussions with the Seafarers who attended the hearing, said in a post-hearing evaluation that the union was dedicated to fighting the fee scheme as long as necessary. "Of course, we hope the judge will throw the unfair tax out. But if not, the union will examine other avenues" in which to fight SIU members and the union's exebutive vice president, Joseph SIU members David Dorrell (far left), Joe Gustafson (center left) and for a repeal,of the fees on marine Sacco (third from left of center), discuss the issues,invplved ip the William Soto (far right) gather outside the courthouse in Washington documents and licenses, Sacco SIU lawsuit against the discriminatory seamen's work tax immediately following the hearing. following the hearing on so-called user fees. said. StWs Wmk Tax Case Goes to Court '•'.- .'.1 i. Seafarers Back Suit Against User Fee « �MMCN1994 ll: SEAFARERS LOG Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea JANUARY 16 — FEBRUARY 15,1994 •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C |.gt:' 1«.- TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Port New York Philadelphia Baltiirhpre Norfolk Mobile New Oriels Jacksonville 1^ San Francisco 29 Wilmington 24 Seattle Puerto Rico Honolulu Houston St. Louis Piney Point Algonac Totals Port 15 April & May 1994 Membership Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, inland Waters Piney Point Monday, April 4, May 2 New York Tuesday: April 5, May 3 Philadeli^a Wednesday: April 6, May 4 Baltiniore Thursday: April 7, May 5; Norfolk Thui^y: April 7, May 5 Jjfat^ksonville Thursday: April 7, May 5 Algonac Friday: April 8, May 6 Houston Monday: April 11, May 9 ^ ^vlSfeW-Orieans^;'':/^::^' Tuesday: April 12, May 10 Mobile Wedne^y: Aprtt 13, May 11 SanFrandsc» Thursday: April 14, May 12 Wilmington Monday: April 18, May 16 Seattle Friday: April 22, May 20 San Juan ^ursday: April 7, May 5 St. Louis , Friday: April 15, May 13 >... < ....' •M iili Honolulu Friday: April 15, May 13 DulutU Wednesday: April 13, May 11 Jfci^cy City Wednesday: April 20, May 18 New Bedford Tuesday: April 19, May 17 - '-''i .. • , ' . - Each port's meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals JACK MILLS Any members who sailed with or knew Jack Mills, please contact Hal Bishop, Rte. 2, Box 448, Drumcliff Road, Hollywood, MD 20636, or phone (301) 373-5401. Mills was bom in Kansas City, Mo. and attended Central Missouri State Teacher's College (1939-42) in Warrensburg, Mo. CHARLES COLSTON Any members who sailed with Chief Cook Charles "Big Charlie" Colston aboard the Water­ man Steamship vessel, the Green Valley, in November 1990, pleasecontact Patricia Colston at 1435 Euterpe St., New Orleans, LA 70130, or phone (504) 581-7821. •C.-: GEORGE WASHINGTON MANNING Please contact your old shipmate, Sidney Gamer, at 518 N. Lakewood Ave., Baltimore, MD 21205-2634, or phone (410) 563-8356. GEORGE WILLIAM LUKE Please contact your son, Adam Tammaro, at 9901 Tailspin Lane, Apt. B, Essex, MD 21220. Notice Totals All 1,026 1378 437 122 71 423 471 821 209 Departments 551 * 'Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. ** "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. A total of 1,087 jobs were shipped on SlU-contracted deep sea vessels. Of the 1,087 jobs shipped, 423jobs or about 39 percent were taken by "A" seniority members. The rest were filled by "B"and "C seniority people. From January16 to February 15,1994, a total of 122 trip reUef jobs were shipped. Since the trip relief program began on April 1,1982, a total of 20,373 jobs have been shipped. j.r-.i:i^:r:', . ,• . . .• p......;', ^ j| ..V PORT ARTHUR, TEXAS INLAND MEMBERSHIP MEETING ON MARCH 9 A general informational Seafarers inland mem­ bership meeting will be held on Wednesday, March 9,1994 at 2:00 p.m. It will take place at the Ramada Inn on Highway 87 in Port Arthur. Contact the Houston SIU hall for further infor­ mation. • • •• /i-'f'.'f-,,* -'o' �fe.'V'-' MA6CH1994 16 SCAFAREI^LOG f rr- •: •i:'- Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes ^farers International Union Directory JANUARY 16 — FEBRUARY 15,1994 CI^-Company/Lakes L—Lakes NP—Non Priority Mkhaef Sacco Piresident Secrctaiy-Tteasurer Joseph Sacco Executive Vice Resident AugustinTenez Vice Resident Collective Bargaining George McCartney -oast Vice Resident West Co; Roy A. '*80011" Mercer Vice Resident Government Services JackCafTey Vice Resident Atlantic Coast Byron Kelley Vice Resident Lakes and Inland Waters DeanCoraey Vice Resident Gulf Coast fe/v ,rr- / t HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr. Algonac, MI 48001 (313) 794-4988 BALTIMORE 1216 E. Baltimore St. Baltimore, MD 21202 (410)327-4900 DULUTH 705 Medical Arts Building Duluth,MN 55802 (218)722-4110 HONOLULU 606KalihiSt. Honolulu, HI 96819 (808)845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St. Houston, TX 77002 (713)659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St. Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JERSEY CITY 99 Montgomery St Jersey City, NJ 07302 (201)435-9424 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy. Mobile, AL 36605 (205)478-0916 I NEWBEDFORD ;6v 48 Union St. New Bedford, MA 02740 (508)997-5404 NEW ORLEANS 630 Jackson AVe. New Orleans, LA 70130 (504) 529-7546 NEW YORK 675 Fourth Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718)499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St. Norfolk, VA 23510 (804)622-1892 PHILADELPHIA "yand ^ d'it Philadelphia,PA 19148 (215)336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75 Rney Point, MD 20674 (301)994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 2 West Dixie Highway Dania,FL 33iD04 (305)921-5661 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont SL San Francisco, CA 94105 (415)543-5855 Government Services Division (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave. Slop 161/^ Santurce, PR 00907 (809)721-4033 SEATTLE 2505 First Ave. Seattie,WA 98121 (206)441-1960 ST. LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave. SL Louis, MO 63116 (314)752-6500 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave. Wilmington, CA 90744 (310)549-4000 •TOTAL REGISTERED AUGroups Class CL OassL Class NP TOTAL SHIPPED AllGroups Class CL Class L Class NP ••REGISTERED ON BEACH AUGroups Class CL Class L Class NP DECK DEPARTMENT Port 0 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 siiwARD DEPARTMENT 0 0 ENTRY DEPARTMENT Port Algonac Port Algonac 0 0 Totals All Departments 0 52 6 0 0 0 0 107 * "Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. ** "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. 22 Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters JANUARY 16 — FEBRUARY 15,1994 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B OassC Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Q 1 Lakes & Inland Wis West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Wateiiii West Coast Totals Region Atlantic ^oas Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters 11 West Coast Totals 0 . 0 1 3 30 ••REGISTERED ON BEACH AllGroups Class A Class B Class C DECK DEPARTMENT 3 0 0 1 4 66 0 v.o; 14 : 0 22 36 74 0 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 0 0 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 1 2 1 5 1 =1S 0 1 6 0 5 11 0 % 0 0 0 0 3 4 2 18 0 28 149 10 131 48 80 Totals All Departments 46 * "Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. ** "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. LOG-A-RHYTHM LOG-A-RHYTHM The Ship Alexander Kane Cushman by Yvette Yvonne Hopkins-Vazquez by Michael J. Cushman Watching and waiting praying to the sea vanish the ship that was so dear tome I have cried a hundred tears or more tears of sorrow praying to the sea the ship vanished so far from me I will never ever see this ship of mine it sunk in California time I will always save a tear for that ship which was so dear knowing now there will be no more watching waiting praying by the shore. After nine months of construction the vessel Alexander Kane Cushman was ready to be launched with many hopes and dreams that this vessel will always sail calm seas, yet when stormy sail brave and strong to the dawn of a clear new day. As this vessel sets to the sea, the sea of life, it's my wish to you that each voyage be filled with happiness and joy and each adventure profitable. Michael J. Cushman has been sailing since 1980. A previous poem, "Something I Want to Say," was published in the July 1993 Seafarers LOG. This selec­ tion, frpm a book of poems by Brother Cushman, was written for his son, Alexander Kane Cushman. This poem was written November 17, 1993 by Yvette Yvonne Hopkins-Vazquez in memory of her father, Juan Hopkins, a member of the SIU for 37 years who died recently. He had retired in 1979. /' ..• I , �•V.v'' ^ -..Vif,,,';: l-.v:',;- ^ •; ,.• , ^ MARCH 1994 SEAFARERS LOG 17 .Jim"!-.'.-!. To Our New Pensioners .. Thanks for a Job Well Done Each month in the Sectfarers LOG, the names ofSIU members who recently have become pensioners appear with a brief biographical sketch. These men and women have served the maritime industry well, and the SIU and all their union brothers and sisters wish them happiness and health in the days ahead. A member who graduated from he union's top training pro­ gram in the deck department at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship is among the seven mariners who are retiring this month as announced by the Seafarers Welfare Plan. Brother Willonghby Byrd suc­ cessfully completed the bosun recertification program in 1985. A total of six members signing off from their seagoing careers sailed in the deep sea division while one member sailed aboard Great Lakes vessels. Foin Seafarers who are begin­ ning their retirements served in the U.S. armed forces: two served in the Coak Guard while one each served in the Army and Navy. Brief biographical sketches of Brother Byrd as well as the others follow. DEEP SEA JOHN AVERSA, 65, joined the Seafarers in 1965 in his native New York. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Aversa upgraded at the Lundeberg School frequently. He served in the U.S. Army from 1946 to 1949. Brother Aversa retired to Grosse Point Woods, Mich. ELBERT JOSE BLACK­ SANCHEZ, 61, joined the BURN, 67, joined the SIU in 1956 in his native SIU in 1961 Tampa, Fla. in the port of In 1981, he San Francis­ co. A native upgraded to QMED at the of California, he sailed in the steward depart­ Lundeberg School. Brother ment. Brother Blackburn served in Sanchez calls Gadsden, Ala. home. the U.S. Coast Guard from 1944 to 1946. He calls San Francisco home. VICTOR SANTOS, 61, joined the union in 1960 WH.in the port of LOUGHBY New York. BYRD, 69, Bom in Puer­ joined the to Rico, he union in 1947 last sailed as in the port of an FOWT. Brother Santos retired Baltimore. to Ponce, Puerto Rico. Bom in Richton, Miss., he successfully completed the bosun recertification course at Piney Point in 1985. Brother Byrd served in the U.S. Navy from 1943 to 1944. He resides in Mobile, Ala. CHRISTOPHER ELLIOTT, 66, joined the Seafarers in 1965 in the port of New York. Bom in Canada, he last sailed as an FOWT. Brother EUiott retired to New York. GREAT LAKES CARL HAR­ DEE, 65, joined the Seafarers in 1979 in the port of Algonac, Mich. A South Carolina native. he sailed in the deck departmort. Brother Hardee served in the U.S. Coast Guard fiom 1946 to 1966. He resides in Sturgeon Bay, Wis. Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The constitution of the SIU Atlan­ tic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership's money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretarytreasure, A yearly finance commit­ tee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their find­ ings and recommendations. Mem­ bers of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recom­ mendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District are administered in accordance with the provisions of various thist fund agreements. All these agree­ ments specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alter­ nates. All expenditures and disbur­ sements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund finan­ cial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member's shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts ^tween the union and the employers. Members should get to Imow their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are )osted and available in all union lalls. If members believe there have been violations of their ship­ ping or seniority rights as con­ tained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Ap­ peals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times,either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Ap­ peals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing forovertime (OT) on theprqrer sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any ar­ ticle serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, of­ ficer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmfu to the union or its collective membership. This estab­ lished policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the Sep­ tember 1960 meetings in all conports. The stitutional responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the ex­ ecutive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one in­ dividual to cany out this respon­ sibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU un­ less an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be m^e without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a pay­ ment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGA­ TIONS. Copies of the SIU con­ stitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its con­ tents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempt­ ing to deprive him or ho- of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the memb^ so affected should immediately notify head­ quarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All mem­ bers are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION — SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and pur­ poses including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and fur­ thering of the American merchant marine with improved employ­ ment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connec­ tion with such objects, SPAD sup­ ports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntaiy. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job dis­ crimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a con­ dition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers Inter­ national Union or SPAD by cer­ tified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and fur­ ther his or her econom ic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt re­ quested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President, Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. -'•'i , • r'l •••: -;r ^ I' • " ' .- S- • • •••• r- �f,r 18 MARCH 1994 SEAFJUtBISlM toPiney Point The nation's capital has the the grounds is the Paul Hall Maryland statehouse; Farthing's Library and Maritime Museum. Ordinary, a reconstructed inn Jefferson, Washington and Lin­ The library contains more than with outbuildings; and Old coln memorials, each in its own 17,000 volumes on maritime and Trinity Episcopal Church, built unique surroundings. The Jeffer­ labor history, while the museum around 1829 with bricks from the son memorial has places to rest features a collection of ship original statehouse. During the and share a picnic lunch under tlie models, historical nautical instru­ summer months familieis can shade of the cherry blossoms. wander the grounds and ex­ Paddle boats also can be rented by ments and union memorabilia. In between the marina and perience the music, games, food the hour and is a fun way to get a library is the historic boat shed. and native dress of the first set­ look at life in Washington. The Capitol, White House and Within its walls are a collection of tlers. Located at Point Lookout Supreme Court all offer daily several varieties of watercraft that have sailed the Chesapeake Bay State Park are the remains of Fort tours. A favorite for many region, including a bugeye and a Lincoln, a prisoner of war camp families is a tour of the FBI head­ for Confederate soldiers during quarters as well as a visit to the skipjack. the Civil War. Local legend has it United States Treasury's printing Southern Maryland Sites that the site is inhabited by ghosts. site, where one can actually Many special events take watch the nation's paper currency Piney Point is located in St. Mary's County—not far from all place in St. Mary's County during being made. llie Smithsonian Institution the sights of Washington, D.C., the summer months including Northern Virginia, Baltimore and country fairs, the Governor's Cup holds hundreds of exhibits (all Annapolis, Md. And just outside Yacht Race and the annual joust­ free) and provides hours of fun for the school are plenty of other ing tournament. the entire family. Among the sights to keep an entire family In nearby Charles County, Smithsonian museums are the entertained—seafood festivals, families can enjoy pleasant rides Museum of Natural History, art exhibitions, antique and craft in the sunshine along rolling Museum of American History shows, country auctions, concerts fields of tobacco that surround and the National Air and Space and theater productions—as well picturesque towns. Perhaps one Museum. The Museum of as acres of unspoiled parkland of Charles County's more notable American History is known as the and many historic landmarks. residents was Dr. Samuel A. "nation's attic" because every St. Mary's County was the Mudd, the country doctor who ex­ thing is there—from Fonzie's first proprietary colony in amined John Wilkes Booth's leather jacket and Dorothy's ruby America, the first colony to prac­ fractured leg following his assas­ slippers to the first cars and fird tice religious toleration, the first sination of President Abraham engines and the First Ladies' colony to have peaceful relations Lincoln. Mudd's house, listed on gowns. One of the best of its kind is the with the native Indians, the first the National Register of Historic Maryland capital and the first Places is open for tours. Washington National Zoo. place a request for the women's Another Charles County Hundreds of rare animals live in right to vote was recorded. With landmark is Smallwood State natural habitat compounds rather all of these "firsts" there is plenty Park, the former plantation of than cages. A visit to "Monkey Tired of the hustle and bustle magazines and snacks as well as of city streets, jam packed shop­ SIU t-shirts, sweatshirt, hats and ping malls and stuffy community other souvenirs. This peaceful setting provides parks but dread spending your lazy days of summer vacation at the opportunity for both water a crowded beach resort or camp­ and land based expeditions. The ing ground? Then this year turn center has a marina where your sights to Piney Point, Md., vacationers can take a boat out for home of the Paul Hall Center for the day to sail around the region Maritime Training and Educa­ or look for a good fishing spot. With 400 miles of waterline sur­ tion. If your idea of a dream vaca­ rounding St. Mary's County, tion is tranquility, rest and relaxa­ waterbome activities are abun­ tion or enjoying the simplistic dant. At the center are a picnic area pleasures of rural life, then a Paul hall Center retreat is in your fu­ with grills and tables, outdoor tennis and basketball courts, an ture. Ideally situated on the banks of the St. George's Creek, all the ffili-; ingredients for a fun-filled vaca­ tion can be found on the grounds or within driving distance of the center. Entertaining day trips throughout historic southern Maryland and the Washington D.C. metropolitan area can fill time between fishing trips or ten­ nis matches right on the center's facilities. Ideal Facilities Housing the largest training facility for deep sea merchant seafarers and inland waterways boatmen in the United States, the Paul Hall Center is composed of a number of administrative and educational buildings as well as a Olympic-size swimming pool to see only minutes from the cenlibrary and maritime museum and equipped with both a diving ter. a six-story training and recreation board and a lifeguard, a state-ofNearby is Sotterley Mansion, center on more than 60 acres of the-art health spa (Aat includes an 18th century working plantawaterfront property. A number of Nautilus, free weights and a tion overlooking the Patuxent these rooms in the training and u ni v^sa^,gyJ^J_a._saJma^-and-'^Uve^ of the original buildrecreation center are set aside steafflfoom) »m) and pie plenty of space ings stillstand and are open to the during the summer months for for peaceful walks or jogs on the public. vacationing SIU members and beautifully landscaped grounds. Also on the Patuxent River, is th6ir families. the Naval Air Test and Evaluation Each room contains two ConvlenientHistory Museum, the nation's only double beds, color TV, bureaus, One does not have to venture museum dedicated to the testing desks and a table'with chairs. outside the gates to get their first and evaluation of naval aircraft. Downstairs is the Sea Chest, dose of history. The marina ser-• In historic St. Mary's City, which sells personal items, ves as the home of the restored families can travel back in time to Manitou, the last pleasure vessel visit the place where vessels from owned by President John F. Ken­ England first landed in 1634. Ex­ nedy. The vessel was restored to hibits located on 800 acres of un­ its current excellent Condition in spoiled tidewater landscape 1990 by SIU pensioners. Across include a replica of the first I William Smallwood, a Maryland patriot leader during the Revolutionary War. Besides the restored house Smallwood State Park offers a marina for boat launching, a picnic area and a nature trail. On several occasions throughout the summer months there "are craft fairs, military exhibitions and other special events. Big City Fun If you crave more than the southem Maryland way of life during your stay and would like to venture into the metropolitan area of Washington D.C., there are many more sights following a mere two hour drive from the Paul Hall Center. Island" and the rain forest at the zoo are fim and educational. Late last year a baby elephant was bom at the National Zoo and is currently living with its mother in the elephant area. There are many more sights to behold in Annapolis, Md., Alexandria, Va. and other metropolitan cities. It will take more than a day—or even a weekend—to see some of the more famous landmarks or visit other significant attractions in the area. From the peace and solitude of Piney Point and all its attractions, to the nation's capitol and surrounding areas, your time at the Paul Hall Center will be a memorable one. ^ SEAFARERS TRAINING & RECREATION CENTER Vacation Reservation Information Name: Social Security number: Book number: Address: Telephone number: Number in party / ages of chiidren, if applicabie: _ Datoofanlval: Istcholce; ,r 2rKichoice: 3rdchoice: stay is limited to two weeks. Dat^ of departure: Send this completedapplication to the Seafarers Training & Recreation Center, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674. J ! \ v.; �?S!l^8%«n( ',./•-^€• • ..sVis.Vv'-v;^;,«--e:;5 'S: mUICH1994 SEMFMERSiM ves. Crew observed one minute silence in memory of departed brothers and sisters. LNG VIRGO (Energy Transporta­ tion), January 16—Chairman S. Brooks, Secretary Oswald board minutes as posslbte. On occasion, b^usa of spne Stoiher, Educational Director Bruce ^non. Chairman reported limitations, some will be omitted. smooth sailing. Educational direc­ SMps minutes tirst are reviewed by the union's contract deparhnent tor urged members to take ad­ Those Issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the vantage of various upgrading courses at the Lundeberg School. union upon receipt of the ships minutes. The minutes are tim Treasurer announced $70 in ship's forwarded to the S^krers LOG for publication. fund. No beefs or dispijted OT reported. Chairman stated "Scandal CLEVELANDiSealift, Inc.), Seligman, Deck Delegate Brian at Sea" videotape viewed at meet­ January 9—Chairman David Fountain, Engine Delegate A. ing and created much interest by all Garoutte, Secretary M. Vinca, Bruno. Chairman announced crewmembers and officers. Ch^Educational Director E. Hawkins, documentary on foreign-flag ves­ man advised members to read Deck Delegate Paul Cadran, En­ sels viewed by entire crew. He president's report in Seafarers gine Delegate Dion Papas, thanked deck department for job LOG. He extended thanks to crew Steward Delegate Nina Forsman. well done. Educational director en­ for maintaining good relationships Chairman thanked crewmembers couraged members to upgrade at during entire tour and reminded for job well done. Educational Piney Point. No beefs or disputed those signing off to clean for next director urged members to upgrade OT reported. Crew noted TV recep­ member signing on. Chairman skills at Lundeberg School as soon tion very poor and requested new noted "an SlU ship is a clean ship.' as possible. No beefs or disputed antenna. Crew gave hearty vote of Crew gave special thanks to OT reported. Chairman asked crew thanks to chief cook and steward Seafarers LOG for videotape and to respect privacy of others by not department for excellent meals. quality newspaper. slamming doors. Crew extended Next port: Charleston, S.C. OVERSEAS ARCTIC (Maritime special vote of thanks to steward ITB PHILADELPHIA (Sheridan Overseas), January 30—Chairman department for barbecue and good Transportation), January 30— Jerome Williams, Secretary H. food service. Next port: Guam. Chairman Vagn Teddy Nielsen, Davis, Educational Director T. COVE ENDEAVOR (Cove Ship­ Secretary M.W. Hite, Deck Hill, Deck Delegate R. Castro, En­ ping), January 16—Chairman C. Delegate Joseph Mieluchowski. gine Delegate Gary Danos. Chair­ Smith, Secretary Thomas Wyho, Chairman announced ship to be man reported new TV received for Educational Director Mark Gran- sprayed for bugs in next port. No crew lounge. He reminded crew­ dahl. Deck Delegate T. Troupe. bwfs or disputed OT reported. members ship paying off in New Chairman noted diat this is the first Orleans and thanked deck depart­ LNG ARIES(Energy Transporta­ SlU crew aboard newly contracted ment for outstanding work. tion), January 23—Chairman Ulus vessel. He announced ship will Secretary asked captain to install load in Panama and discharge in Veach, Secretaiy Doyle Cornelius, soft drink machine in lounge. He St. James, La. Educational director Educational Director John Orr, reported new buffer for decks will advised members to upgrade skills be received next trip and advised Deck Delegate Louis Sorito Jr,, SA. Paul Hall Center. No beefs or dis­ Engine Delegate Dasril Panko, crewmembers to maintain sanitary puted OT reported. Chairman read conditions aboard ship. Education­ Steward Delegate Udjang amendment to contract sent to ship Nurdjaja. Chairman announced al director urged members to by Seattle hall. He encouraged upgrade skills at Lundeberg "Scandal at Sea" video received members to view film about School. He reminded everyone that and available for crewmembers to foreign-flag vessels sent by union. dependents also may stay at Piney watch. He thanked crewmemebers Recertified Steward Wybo ex­ Point when member is upgrading. tended wishes for happy retirement for job well done and reminded them to bring shipping card to ves­ No beefs or disputed OT report^. to Romeo Lupinacci and thanked Chairman announced new him for his help while upgrading at sel. Secretaiy advised members to Seafarers LOGs available. Crew ex­ pick up clean linen for next crewPiney Point. Chairman passed out tended special vote of thanks to gal­ member. He thanked steward assis­ ley gang for outstanding job in repair list. Next port: Chiriqui tants for jobs well done and asked Grande, Panama. aration of excellent meals, crewmembers to keep mess room ext port: Panama. COI^E LIBERTY (Cove Ship­ clean at night. Educational director ping), January 30-^hairman OVERSEAS BOSTON advised members to upgrade at Terry Cowans, Secretary L. Pal­ (Maritime Overseas), January 30— Lundeberg School and take ad­ mer, Educational Director Floyd Chairman S. Garay, Secretary W. vantage of new college courses Acord. Educational director urged Bryley, Education^ Director S. being offered. Treasurer reported members to use caution when walk­ $344 in ship's fund. No beefs or Wilkerson, Steward Delegate ing on icy deck surfaces. Deck James Boss. Chairman noted disputed OT reported. Crew stated delegate reported disputed OT. No "Scandal at Sea" video received Seafarers LOGs received. Crew en­ from headquarters. Educational beefs or disputed OT reported by joyed pool parties and extended director encouraged members to engine or steward delegate. Crew special vote of thanks to SA Bill upgrade skills at Piney Point. No stated mail slow getting to ship. Smaley for keeping mess room beefs or disputed OT reported. GOLDEN MONARCH (Apex clean. Next port: Nagoya, Japan. Crew asked contracts department Marine), January 30—Chairman to clarify reimbursement of medi­ Charles Parman, Secretary Perco expenses. Crew extended nell Cook. Chairman noted captain LNG CAPRICORN(Energy thanks to galley gang for cleaning Transportation), January 16— extended thanks to entire crew for after ship layup and for great ob well done. He advised crew ves­ Chairman C. Kahl, Secretaiy R. meals. Crew listed dryers need new Frazier, Educational Director sel is expected to lay up in Korea. lint screens. Chairman announced David Dinan, Deck Delegate Secretaiy thanked crewmembers two new VCRs received. ibr keeping ship in good shape. He Thomas Harding, Engine PATRIOT(Vulcan Carriers), reminded members to donate to Delegate R. Rice, Steward January 18—Chairman R. Gibbs, SPAD. Educational director ad­ Delegate Glen Williams. Chair­ Deck Delegate G. Thompson, En­ vised crewmembers to upgrade man discussed proper conduct of gine Delegate William Harris, skills at Lundeberg School. Deck crew while in port. Educational Steward Delegate Daniel Payne. and engine delegates reported dis­ director listed reasons why mem­ Chairman thanked crew for fine puted OT. No beefs or disputed OT bers should upgrade skills at Paul work in port. Educational director reported by steward delegate. Crew Hall Center. No beefs or disputed urged members to upgrade at Paul reported "Scandal at Sea" video OT reported. Engine delegate Hall Center. Treasurer reported viewed by entire crew. Crew re­ thanked galley gang and Chief $600 in ship's fund. No beefs or quested microwave oven and gave Cook Williams for fine job. Crew disputed OT reported. Crew dis­ vote of thanks to galley gang for asked contracts department to look cussed keeping milk supply frozen ;ood meals. Next port: Korea. into holiday pay for crewmembers to avoid spoiling. Crew not^ soap GREEN ISLAND (V^aterman or days worked last tour. Bosun and toilet paper need to be distributed Steamship Co.), January 9—Chair­ asked crewmembers to work around ship equally. Crew reported man E. Grantham, Secretary J. together as a whole. He noted first mail not being received. Crew ex­ leid. Educational Director D. Intended special vote of thanks to oad ever taken to Korea by LNG ; ;ram. Chairman reported smooth Chief Cook Payne for excellent galCapricorn and gave hearty thanks sailing and advised crewmembers ey skills and arranging special to entire crew for successful dis­ of estimated arrival in Newport charge of cargo. Captain F.L. Phan- Christmas party for crewmembers. ^ews, Va. and New Orleans, ^ext port La Vera, France. cenek also thanked crewmembers ^ucational director announced or job well done in Korea. He an­ new books available for crew. SEA-LAND CONSUMER (Seanounced ship to be gas-free and in Treasurer reported $230 in movie Land Service), January 16—Chair­ shipyard from April 25 through : imd. No beefs or disputed OT man William Mortier, Secretary Slay 26. He advised crewmembers reported. Crew discussed having S. Ortiz, Educational Director to keep dead lights closed at night. slop chest available on regular Cbristopber Earbart. Chairman Chairman stated smoking on bridge thanked crewmembers for job well jasis and asked contracts depart­ is now okay but only near starment for clarification on use of done in shipyard. Educational direc­ H>ard exit with door cracked so telex by crewmembers. tor urged members to upgrade at smoke will drift outside and not 'iney Point and watch educational TB GROTON (Sheridan remain in wheel house. He advised movies available aboard ship. Transportation), January 9—Chair­ smokers to clean up after themselTreasurer reported $1,1SO in ship's man ^ Paradise, Secretary R. fund and aimounced movies to be purchased in Long Beach, Calif. Deck :k delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegates. Crew requested coffee machine in crew lounge and gave vote of thanks to steward depart­ ment for job well done. SEA-LAND DEFENDER (SeaLand Service), January 23—Chair­ man Robert Wagner, Secret^ John Alamar, Educational Direc­ tor Balic Bazidar, Engine Delegate Donald Morrison, Steward Delegate Ignacio Fontelera Chairman requested copies of new contract. Deck delegate reported diluted OT. No b^fis or disputed OT reported by engine or ..:-5- 19 director advised membos to upgrade skills at Lundeberg SdKX>l. No beefs or disputed OT n^rted. Crew dis­ cussed new repair list as it circulated. Engine delegate reminded crewmem­ bers to separate plastics from othCT trash. Special waste cans distributed by steward for this pupose. Crew voted steward dqiartment top notch and gave special thanks to Oiief Steward Guzman for outstanding job. Next port Long Beadi, Cafrf. SEA-LAND INDEPENDENCE (Sea-Land Service), January 10Chairman John Stout, Secretary Nancy Heyden, Educational Direc­ tor Cardel Duim, Deck Delegate Mitchell Santana, Engine Delegate Saeed Mufl^i, Steward Delegate Carlton GriRin. Chair- U.S. Flag Makes Rare Appearance In Albania •, ^ 23,000 tons of wheat in Durres, Albania. The vessel is the second U.^ ;.-flag ship to visit that port in 40 years. The I steward delegates. Crew discussed having shuttle bus service to and from vessel in all ports outside U.S. SEA-LAND DEVELOPER (SeaLand Service), January 23—Chair­ man Ernest Duhon, Secretary L. Finn, Educational Director S. Brown, Deck Delegate Rick Bur­ gess, Engine Delegate J. Day, Steward Delegate C. Largo. Chair­ man noted new washing machine ordered last trip but not yet received. Deck delegate reported ' disputed OT and beef. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegates. Crew asked con­ tracts department to clarify wheel watching rules. Crew, extended vote of Aanks to steward depart­ ment for job well done. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. man thanked galley gang for holiday meals and recent cookout He reminded those signing off to clean rooms and leave keys with steward or bosun. Chairman asked contracts department for clarifica­ tion on new working rules for deck department. He askV crewmem­ bers to clean up after themselves in laundry room to make job easier for DEU and reminded them to lock up while in port. Educational director encouraged members to donate to SPAD and upgrade at Lundeberg School. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. SEA-LAND NAVIGATOR (SeaLand Service), January 16—Chair­ man Werner Berber, Secretary R. Spingat, Educational Director Wal­ ter Stevens, Deck Delegate George Paimn, Engine Delegate SEA-LAND EXPLORER (SeaPrentiss Smith, Steward Delegate Land Service), January 30-^hair- Virgilio Hoffmann. Chairman man Jack Kingsley, Secretary notV ship suffered minor damages William Burdette, Educational in recent bad weather and thanked Director G. Pollard, Engine crewmembers for efforts to bring Delegate S. Byerley. Chairman an­ situation under control. Education­ nounced arrival and payoff in Long al director advised members to Beach, Calif. No beefs or disputed upgrade skills at Lundeberg OT reported. Steward delegate dis- School. No beefs or disputV OT cussed ised develo developing system of return­ reported. Crew extended special ing movies to crew library after use vote of thanks to galley gang for ex­ in crew lounge. cellent Christmas and New Year's dinners. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. SEA-LAND HA WAII (Sea-Land Service), January 9—Chairman W. SEA-LAND PERFORMANCE Lough, Secretaiy Paul Guzman, (Sea-Land Service), January 12— Vocational Director Jose Del Rio, Chairman Richard Moss, Steward Delegate Glenn Taan. Secretary G. Griswold, Vocation­ Chairman noted new Seafarers al Director D. Grenier, Deck LOGs list updated schedules for Delegate James World, Engine 'iney Point classes and urged mem- Delegate Bobby Spencer, Steward )ers to attend. Treasurer reported Delegate Tom McNellis. Chairman $165 in ship's fund. No beefs or asked contracts department to sup­ disputed OT reported. Crew said ply copies of new contract as soon Scandal at Sea" videotape as possible. He announced Coast received but waiting for repairs to Guard inspection upon arrival in be completed on VCR. Crew stated port with payoff expected to fol­ microwave oven in crew mess hall low. Educational director reminded needs repair. Next port: Honolulu. members to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center and take advantage of SEA-LAND HAWAII (Sea-Land all educational opportunities union Service), January 30—Chairman has to offer. Treasurer reported $50 ^ V. Lou^, Secretary Paul Guz­ in ship's fund. No beefs or dis­ man, Educational Director Jose >el Rio, Deck Delegate Allen Run- puted OT reported. Bosun gave vote of thanks to galley gang for ex­ nion. Engine Delegate K. Harder, cellent Christmas dinner and profesSteward Delegate Glenn Taan. Chairman noted crew waiting for Continuedon pt^e 21 dryer to be repaired. Educational !. • '' . V -5 . �20 MARCH 1004 SEAFARERS LOG Final Departures ' '.'.S 1: IK _ 'V •? '•" •• ' I- -• -.i';"- - DEEP SEA LEO BROWN Pensioner Leo Brown, 68, passed away February 2. A Baltimore na­ tive, he joined the Seafarers in 1946 in the port of Seat­ tle. Brother Brown sailed in the steward department. He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy in World War II. He retired in June 1984. Brother Kitsko sailed in the deck department. He served in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II. Brother Kitsko began receiving his pension in November 1983. receiving his pension in August 1990. LOUIS PICKHART Pensioner Louis Pickhart, 68, died January 27. A native of Jasper, Ind., he joined the Seafarers in 1959 in the port of Houston. Brother Picldiart sailed as a QMED. He upgraded at the Lun­ deberg School in 1980. Brother Pickhart served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. He retired in October 1983. HJALMARHORSMA Pensioner Hjalmar Horsma, 79, passed away Januapr 25. Bora in Min­ neapolis, Minn., he JOSE RODRIGUEZ joined the Jose union in Duluth, Minn, in 1969. Before retir­ Rodriguez, 61, passed ing in August 1979, Brother BERNARD BURGE away January Horsma sailed as an AB. Pensioner Ber­ 17. Bora in nard Burge, JESSE LASETER Colombia, he 68, died joined the PensicHier Jesse February 12. SIU in 1969 Laseter, 83, Bom in Mis­ in the port of died Febru­ sissippi, he New York. ary 11. Bora joined the in Georgia, he Brother Rodriguez sailed in the SIU in 1968 joined the SIU deck department. He upgraded at in the port of Piney Point in 1975. as a charter New Orleans. member in 1939 Brother Burge sailed in the engine JOSE SANCHEZ in the port of department. He upgraded at the Jacksonville, Jose Sanchez, Lundeberg School frequently. ^a. Brother Laseter last sailed as a 61, died May Brother Burge served in the U.S. xisun. He retired in December 1965. 10,1993. He Army from 1950 to 1952. He joined the began receiving his pension in Sep­ JULIAN LOPEZ Seafarers in tember 1991. 1956 in his na­ Pensioner tive Tampa, Julian Lopez, RICHARD COLLINS Fla. Brother 67, passed Richard Collins, 51, passed away Sanchez away January February 11. He joined the sailed as a 23. Bora in Seafarers in 1964 in his native QMED. He upgraded at the Lun­ Spain, he Mobile, Ala. Brother Collins sailed joined the deberg School in 1981. in the steward department, most SIU in 1962 recently as a chief cook. LAUREN SANTA ANA in the port of New York. Pensioner HOMER CROSS Brother Lopez sailed in the engine Lauren Santa Pensioner department. He began receiving his Ana, 81, Homer Cross, pension in October 1991. passed away 64, died February 12. February 15. DANIEL McMULLEN A native of Bora in Pensioner the Philippine Winston, Islands, he Daniel McN.C., he joined the Mullen, 73, joined the SIU in 1947 died January union in 1956 17. A native in the port of New Orleans. He in the port of of Brooklyn, sailed as a chief steward. Brother Norfolk, Va. Brother Cross sailed Santa Ana began receiving his pen­ N.Y., he as a member of the galley gang. He sion in March 1977. joined the began receiving his pension in union in 1956 June 1991. THOMAS SELF in the port of New York. Brother McMullen Pensioner TOMDANZEY primarily sailed as an AB. He Thomas Self, Pensioner Tom Danzey, 66, passed upgraded at Piney Point in 1975. 64, passed away December 25. Ah Alabama Brother McMullen was a veteran away native, he joined the SIU in 1944 of the U.S. Army in World War II February 3. A in the port of Philadelphia. Brother and sailed during the Vietnam con­ native of Danzey sailed in the deck depart­ flict. He retired in August 1980. Clinchco, ment. He retired in December 1986. Va., he joined ERNESTO MORALES the Seafarers LEOFEHER in 1951 in the Ernesto Pensioner port of Baltimore. Brother Self suc­ Morales, 64, Leo Feher, cessfully completed the bosun passed away 73, passed recertification program at the Lun­ 3. January away deberg School in 1973. He served Bora in February 3. in the U.S. Coast Guard during Mayaguez, Bora in Il­ World War II. Brother Self began P.R., he linois, he receiving his pension in September joined the joined the 1992. Seafarers in Seafarers in 1961 in the 1943 in the FRTTZBERT STEPHEN port of Puerto Rico. Brother port of New York. Brother Feher Pensioner Morales sailed in the engine depart­ sailed as an FOWT. He retired in Fritzbert ment. December 1982. Stephen, 76, died January JAMES HAYNIE ROY PEEBLES 28. Bora in Pensioner Roy Peebles, 63, died September the Virgin Is­ James 22. A native of Houston, he joined lands, he Haynie, 73, the SIU in 1953 in the port of New joined the died January York. Brother Peebles sailed in the -union in 1955 14. A native deck department. in the port of of Tangier, New York. He sailed in the Va., he sailed steward department. Brother , JULIAN PRIMERO in the deck Stephen upgraded at Piney Point in Pensioner department. 1981. He retired in December 1982. Julian Brother Primero, 68, Haynie last sailed on the Overseas GEORGE VIDRINE passed away Harriette in 1988 as bosun. He Pensioner January 1. A also sailed on such vessels as the George Philippine Is­ Liberty Wave and the Sea-Land Mc­ Vidrine, 83, lands native, Lean. Brother Haynie began receiv­ died January he joined the ing his pension in May 1989. 4. A native of union in 1971 Ville Platte, MICHAEL KITSKO in the port of . La., he joined Pensioner Michael Kitsko, 74, died Seattle. Brother Primero sailed in the SIU in the steward department. He December 24. A native of Whit­ 1961 in the upgraded at the Lundeberg School ney, Pa., he joined the Seafarers in port of Hous­ in 1977. Brother Primero began 1^8 in the port of Baltimore. ton. Brother Vidrine sailed as an FOWT. He began receiving his pensionin July 1977. DING HAI WOO Pensioner Ding Hai Woo, 84, passed away Januaty15. Bora in China, he joined the union in 1955 in the port of San Francisco. Brother Woo sailed as a chief cook. He became a U.S.' citizen in 1954. Brother Woo retired in January 1974. INLAND LOUIS CANAVINO Peiisioner Louis Canavino, 67, died January 8. A native of New Canaan, Conn., he joined the Seafarers in 1961 in the port of Baltimore. Boatman Canavino last sailed as a captain. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1944 to 1948. Boatman Canavino retired in May 1988. FREDERICK CHANSON Pensioner Frederick Chanson, 65, passed away January 14. Bora in Louisiana, he joined the union in 1974 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Boatman Chanson sailed in the deck department. He began receiv­ ing his pension in January 1991. ROBERT CHARLET Robert Charlet, 36, died February 12. A Lexington, Ky. native, he joined the SIU after graduating from the trainee pro­ gram at the Lundeberg School in 1980. Boatman Charlet sailed in the deck department aboard Orgulf tugs. WILLIAM McBUNCH Pensioner William McBunch, 63, passed away January 19. Bora in Friars Point, Miss., he joined the Se^arers in 1971 in the port of St. Louis. Boatman McBunch most recently sailed as a tankerman. He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1950 to 1953. Boat-^ man McBunch began receiving his pension in August 1992. ELVESTER SANDERS Pensioner Elvester Sanders, 65, died February 2. A South Carolina na­ tive, he joined the SIU in 1980 in the port of Nor­ folk, Va. Boatman Sanders sailed in the steward department. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1954 to 1961. Boatman San^rs retired in October 1993. LESLIE TETTERTON Leslie Tetterton, 55, passed away January 27. A Belhaven, N.C. na­ tive, he joined the SIU in 1976 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Brother Tetterton sailed as an engineer. GREAT LAKES GEORGE CAUSEY JR. Pensioner George Causey Jr., 71, passed away Novem­ ber 29. Bora in Pell City, Ala., he joined the Seafarers in 1970 in the port of Detroit. Brother Causey sail^ in both the deck and engine departments. He served in the U.S. Navy firom 1942 to 1945. Brother Causey began receiving his pension in June 1987. EDWARD LADESICH Pensioner Ed­ ward Ladesich, 81, passed away November 24. A Kansas na­ tive, he joined the SIU in 1954 in the port of Frankfort, Mich. Broker Ladesich sailed in the deck department. He retired in August 1973. ARTHUR PERRY Pensioner Ar­ thur Perry, 76, passed away January 6. Bora in St. Regis Falls, N.Y., he joined the SIU in 1960 in the port of Buffalo, N.Y. Brother Perry sailed as an FOWT aboard Kinsman Marine vessels. He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy in World War II. Brother Perry began receiving his pension in December 1981. ATLANTIC FISHERMEN JOHNOSTERLUND Pensioner John Osterlund, 82, passed away Januaiy 20. Bora in Portland, Mass., he was one of the original members of the Atlantic Fishermen's Union, an affiliate of the SIU, before it merged with the AGLIWD in 1981. Osterlund moved to Gloucester, Mass. in 1937 and worked in Aat area until the time of his retirement in April 1976. RAILROAD MARINE «• VICTOR LANZA Pensioner Victor Lanza, 82, died September 14. He joined the Seafarers in 1960 in his native New York. Brother Lanza sailed in the deck department. He served in the U.S. Army from 1942 to 1945. Brother Lanza retired in November 1975. VINCENTSADLER Pensioner Vincent Sadler, 78, passed away January 31. A native of Mathews, Va., he joined the SIU in 1960 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Brother Sadler sailed as a pilot. He began receiving his pension in November 1980. �• r5i'-, MARCH1994 Ships Digesi CoiUinuedfrom page 19 '••• •• li' sional food service. Next port: EUzabeth,N.J. SEA-LAND QUALITY (SeaLand Service), January 23—Chair­ man Carmine Bova, Secretary TJ. Smith, Deck Delegate Tom Nealon, Engine Delegate Anthony Rotunda, Steward Delegate Stephan Osovitz. Chairman reported Seafarers LOGs received. Educational director urged mem­ bers to upgrade at Paul Hall Cen­ ter. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew wished Chief Cook Osovitz well when he signed off and gave vote of thanks to steward department. Next port: Boston. SEA-LAND RELIANCE (SeaLand Service), January 13-^hairman A. Eckert, Secretary G. Sivley, Educational Director Amos Jaramillo. Chairman announced new Seafarers LOGs received. He noted ship will be in Tacoma, Wash, and thanked crew for smooth trip. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew gave vote of thanks to steward department for excellent Christmas dinner. SEA-LAND SP//?/r(Sea-Land Service), January 16—Chairman Hovrard Gibbs, Secretaiy S. Apodaca, Educational Director C. Henley, Deck Delegate S. Shields, Engine Delegate D. Locsin, Steward Delegate M. Brayman. Chairman reported sanitary inspec­ tion held and shower stalls need to be caulked. Secretary stressed im­ portance of donating to SPAD. Educational director stated any member who wants to upgrade should attend Lundeberg School classes. Treasurer reported $140 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew noted "Scandal at Sea" videotape viewed by all. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang for job well done. Next port: Honolulu. SEA-LAND TRADER (Sea-Land Service), January 30—Chairman L. Watson, Secretary Jack Utz, Educational Director Jan Haidir. Chairman reminded members to clean room before signing off ship. Crew requested new TV and refrigerator for crew lounge. No beefs or disputed OT reported. . Crew discussed Sea-Land's mail policy in ports of call and re­ quest^ copies of new contract when available. Steward delegate reported he is checking overall linen conditions. ULTRASEA (Sealift Inc.), January 23—Chairman M. Noble, Secretary T. Dowd, Engine Delegate Oscar Garcia, Steward Delegate F. Monsihais. Chairman announced arrival in Russia. He's still waiting for parts to complete repairs in galley. Ship's antenna and ice machine also need repair. Educational director reported all SEAFARERS UfG crewmeihbers have seen new "Scandal at Sea" video sent to ship. Treasurer reported $56 in ship's fund. Deck delegate gave special thanks to galley gang for job well done. No beefs or disputed OT reported. SUGAR ISLANDER (Pacific Gulf Marine), January 25—Chair­ man William Dean, Secretary Michael Thornton, Educational Director John Copeland, Deck Delegate Tommy Lister, Engine Delegate Geofl'rey Denesse, Steward Delegate Julio Aruz. Chairman reported new crew washer and rug shampooer received and tile in passageways and decks in laundry rooms fixed. He thanked crew for very smooth trip and announced payoff in New Orleans. Secretary thanked steward department for cleanliness of ship. Educational director reminded members to take advantage of op­ portunities available at Finey Point and to apply for SIU scholarship before April 15 deadline. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew commended steward department for excellent job. USNS SILAS BENT (Bay Ship Management), January 26-^hairman R. Vazquez, Secretary B. Henderson, Educational Director Richard Larsen. Chairman ad­ vised members new contract cur­ rently in effect and 90 days seatime needed for vacation pay per year. Secretary reported store rooms and refrigerators clean and in good order. He noted fresh stores to be received in Singapore and all pasta now being kept in refrigerators. Educational director reminded members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman stated annual Coast Guard inspection to be con­ ducted in next port. He reminded members to separate plastics from trash for proper disposal. Crew gave round of applause to SIU storekeeper Hugh "Tom" Catron for receiving 1(W percent on recent quality assurance inspection. Chair­ man noted it is the first perfect score ever received by ship. SEA-LAND TACOMA (SeaLand Service), February 2—Chair­ man Joseph Artis, Secretary H. Lively, Education^ Director George Ackley, Engine Delegate Walton Weaver, Steward Delegate F. Martin. Chairman noted crew still waiting for copy of new contract. Chairman announced new watch system now in effect. Educational director discussed donating money to Seaman's Church in New York for sending books to ship. He urged members to upgrade at Lundeberg School. Deck delegate reported disputed OT. No )eefs or disputed OT reported by en­ gine or steward delegates. Crew dis­ cussed building movie library of their own in crew lounge and creat­ ing shelf for new books. Crew ex­ tended special vote of thanks to galley gang for job well done. Next port Tacoma, Wash. Supply Officer Catron Aces Inspection Hugh Tom" Catron, supply officer aboard the USNSSilas Bent, recently received a 100 percent satisfactory score in all areas of a rigorous qualify assurance inspection aboard ship—the first and only supply officer in Military Sealift Command-Atlantic history to "ace" the inspection. Brother Catroii has been sailing with the SIU for six yeans. Prior to joining the union, he worked for MSC for 14 years and began his supply carMr jn ^ logistic supply for helicopters during the Vietnam the U.S. War. Above, atron'is at work during a recent stopover in Singapore. wPt 21 SEAFARERS SCHOLARSHIPS This winter has been devas­ tating for virtually every region of the country. But take heart— spring is on the way, and with it come thoughts of growth, of renewal—of education!. Only one month remains in which to complete a scholarship application for the seven awards that will be issued in 1994 to three Seafarers and four de­ pendents of SIU members. Of the seven scholarships to be awarded this year, three are reserved for SIU members (one in the amount of $15,000 for a four-year scholarship to a col­ lege or university, and two $6,000 two-year scholarships for study at a vocational school or community college). The other four stipends will be granted to spouses and depend­ ent children of Seafarers. Each of these four is a $15,000 scholarship for study at a fouryear college or university. Anyone who has looked into the costs associated with higher education knows the financial burden that can sometimes result. A Seafarers scholarship will help ease that burden. The $15,000 college scholarships will be paid at the rate of $3,750 per year over a four-year period. The $6,000 awards are paid at the rate of $3,000 per year for two years. Eligibility requirements for Seafarers and their spouses and unmarried dependents are spelled out in a booklet which contains an application form. It is available by filling out and returning the coupon below. The 1994 Scholarship Program booklets also are available at all SIU hiring halls. But remember; Completed applications must be sent to the Seafarers Welfare Plan on on before April 15, 1994—so act now! The scholarship application form must be complet^ by ALL applicants and includes: • Autobiographical State­ ment • Photograph of Applicant • Certified Copy of Birth Certificate • High School Transcript AND Certification of Graduation Official Copy of High School Equivalency Scores College Transcript Letters of Reference SAT or ACT Results. The application form aiid the first three items Usted hereshould be mailed by die applicant All other items should mailed by the person or agency fiom whom they are requested. All items should besent to Scholarship Pro­ gram, Seafarers Welfare Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Act Now. Time Is Running Out. ••'A.- 'If? Send for Your Application Form Today! * niease send me the 1994 SIU Scholarship Program booklet which contains eligibility information, procedures for apply­ ing and the application form. ' A ^ Name Book Number. Address City, State, Zip Code Telephone Number_ This application is for • Self • • • •' A - Dependent -• f Mail this completedform to Scholarship Program, Seafarers Welfare Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. 3/94 i | -1^ �•It. :'# • •i fi • Klfrlli.':' 22 SEAFARERS LOG mRCH 1994 Lundeberg School Graduating Classes ii Trainee Lifeboat Class 519—Graduating from trainee lifeboat class 519 are (from left, kneeling) Bryan Bush, Andrew Keane, James Murphy, Samuel Forrest, Eric Garror, Elwood Leguillou, Randy XJpgraders Lifeboat—^With instoictor Jim Brown (left) are Pearson, Kurt Benjamin, (second row) Jim Brown (instructor), Jerry Leonard, John McDonald Jr., Robert upgrading graduates of the December 14 lifeboat class (from left) Mahone, Eric Mose, Timothy Hadley, Walter Bagby, Spencer Hunter, Claudio Romano, Kenneth yVayne Webb, Jeannette Hall and Michael San Juan. Flanagan, Thomas Schaefer Jr., Daniel Tapley and Cyrus Brewster. Third Mate^ertificates of cornpletion were received by the December 7 class of Celestial Navigation—The December 15 graduates of the celestial navigation upgraders. They are (from left, front row) Susan Corliss, Daniel Vi^, Daniel Hughes, course are (from left, front row) John Bellinger, Mark Lamar, Romeo Lugtu, Mark A. SiK E. Me^r, MarcTkyloran^i Pumproom Maintenance—Graduating on December 9 from the pumproom rnantenance cour^ are (from left kneeling) Art Victor MullJDhns Gilman Marsha Dawson, Miguel Rullan, Brantley Twiford, Lawrence Bante, (third row) Mark Glinka, Allen Scott, Dan Holden (instructor), Mark Lawrence and EncMornson. Diesel Engine—Receiving certification in diesel engine technology are (from left, seated) Dennis Riley, Bruce Smith, Joseph Jay Amold, (second row) Gary Frazier, Steve Erdell, J.C. Wiegman (instructor), Wesley \N\se, Larry M. Pittman, Jarrres Gibson and Matthew DiTullio. Basic Electronics—^Working their way up through the engine department are Radar—Renewing their radar endorsements on January 14 are (from left front row) (from left, front rqw) Arthur Wadsworth, Herman Manzer, Richard G.Buchanan, (second Patrick Cross, Mariana Photiou, Lee Harman fsecond rowi rhnQtian H Womer row) Brantley Twiford, Marsha Dawson, Michael Goins and Russ Levin (instructor). Michael Woodman and Jake Karaczynski (instructor) �* '/ *•< MARCH 1994 {>•.. SEAFARERS LOG LUNDEBERG SCHOOL 1994 UPGRJURHG COURSE SCHEDULE The following is the course schedule for classes beginning between April and August 1994 at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg Schoolof Seamanship located at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. All programs are geared to improve job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. The course schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—^in times of conflict—the nation's security. Deckllpgradinglknuses Course Check-In Dafe Completion Date Able Seaman May 20 July 15 July 1 August 26 RecertMcallonPngnms Course Check-In Date Comidetlon Date Bosun Recertifi<»tion Mardi28 May 2 Steward Recertifiation Julys Augusts Course Checkrin Date Comidetion Date Assistant Cook, Cook and Baker All open-ended (contact admissions office for starting dates) Chief Cook, Chief Steward Ail open-ended (contact admisdons ofBce for starting dates) Baglne Upgratling Courses All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. Course Bridge Management (Shiphandling) Radar Certification :S::: - , ,C-,, ^ -Y . Celestial Navigation ; : Third Mate , Limited License, Part 1 Limited License, Part 2 - Limited License, Part 3 23 Check-In Date Completion Date May 6 July 29 May August 12 April 29 May 20 June 17 July 22 August 19 May 6 May 27 June 24 July 29 August 26 Julyl August 12 April 19 August 12 Pumproom Maint & Operations May 2 June 10 April 11 June 20 April 22 Julyl Hydraulics June 20 July 15 April 25 July 5 May 6 July 15 Marine Electrical Maintenance July5 August 26 May 9 July 18 May 20 July 29 All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. QMED - Any Rating August 1 October 21 FiremanAVatertender and Oiler May 9 June 17 Diesel Engine Technolt^ June 27 July 22 Refrigeration Maint. & Operations August 1 September 9 '~TRefrig. Containers - Advanced Maint. May 2 , • ^ June 10 'MShS, 1994AauHBIucatton Scheiule The following courses are available through the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School. Please contact the admissions office for enrollment information. Safely Sj^lalty Courses Course Check-In Date Completion Date Course Check-In Date Completion Date GED Preparation 12 weeks - open-ended admission Oil Spill Prevention and (Containment) June 17 July 1 August 26 June 24 Julys September 2 Adult Basic Education (ABE) 6 weeks - open-ended admission English as a Second Language (ESL) 6 weeks - open-ended admission Lifeboatman April 22 May 6 May 20 June 17 July 15 August 12 August 26 May 6 May 20 June 3 July 1 July 29 August 26 September 9 Developmental Studies May 2 June 27 July 11 August 22 September 5 May 6 May 20 July 22 Basic/Advanced Fire Fighting Julys Sealift Operations & Maintenance May 9 July 11 General Educatton College Courses June 3 Session n May 9 Julyl Augusts Sessionm September 12 November 4 Primary language spoken UPGRADING APPLRMTION Name. (Middle) (Fust) (Last) Address (Stieet) (Zip Code) (Stale) (City) Date of Birth. Telephone ( (AieaCMe) (Mooth/Day/Year) Inland Waters MemberQ Lakes Membo-D Deep Sea Member D May 6 June 30 July 15 August 26 September 9 With this application, COPIES of your discharges must be submitted showing suffi­ cient time to qualify yourself for the course(s) requested. You also must submit a COPY of each of the following: the first page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, your clinic card arul the jront and back of your z-card as well as your Lundeberg School identification card listing the course(s) you have taken and com­ pleted The Admissions Office WILL NOT schedule you until all of the above are received BEGIN END DATE DATE COURSE If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security # .Book#_ Seniority . Department U.S. Citizen: •Yes • No Home Port. Are you a graduate of the SHLSS trainee program? If yes, class# Have you attended any SHLSS upgrading courses? Date On: • Yes • Yes • NO GNO If yes, course(s) taken Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? • Yes GNO Firefighting:GYcs GNO Rating: LAST VESSEL: Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held CPR:GYes GNO SIGNATURE. Date Off:. .DATE. Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point RETURN COMPLETED APPUCATION TO: Lundeberg Upgrading Center, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674. ^ • -I'l • :. �' —^--- •<F^ra»y^'||l!yi ;• ]';• • $ ' Volume 56, Number 3 March 1994 Time Is Running Out! The deadline to apply for a Seafarers scholarship is April 15— only one month from now. Don't pass up this opportunity for a higher education. See page 21 for additional information. . Now moored in Plney Point, the Empress //still features part of the pulse generator/antenna system once used to simulate electromagnetic pulses. •'liSi Upgraders at the Paul Hall ment maintenance; a small been jointly approved by the the 120-foot Empress II into ttie explosions which occur above the Center for Maritime Training and lounge and mess area with (Maritime) Admnistration and curriculum. "We're going to be atmosphere generate an able to use diis barge in so many electromagnetic pulse (EMP). Education soon will have the op­ sanitary and shower facilities; Ae U.S. Coast Guard..." different classes, it's amazing. This The EMP does not harm people, The vessel, which is loaded and two diesel engines which run portunity to train aboard the is really a major asset to the but depending upon the strength with top-flight equipment, is on the synchronized generators that Empress II, a state-of-the-art of the induct electromagnetic barge formerly used by the power the barge. (The generators loan to the Seafarers Harry Lun- school." "It has every item that we train field, damage, can range from government for electromagnetic pack 600 kilowatts of power- deberg School of Seamanship for enough to run the entire school in the next three years. After that, witl^" said Bill Saul, waterways momentary electrical interrup­ testing. the government may opt to donate advisor for the Paul Hall Center. tion to total overload and birmout Some of the barge's features a state of emergency.) "There's something for everyone, of circuits. include the following: refrigera­ The Paul Center recently it to the school. whether they sail deep sea. Great In July 1984 the U.S. Navy tion and atmospheric control sys­ acquired the Empress II (short for Valuable Training Tool Lakes, inland or on passenger contracted to build and test a tems; sewage control and Electromagnetic Pulse Radioseaworthy EMP simulator—the disposal; a complete hydraulics Frequency Instructors and administrators ships." Environment Saul joined Lundeberg School Empress II. The vessel included a system; winches; centrifuges; Simulator for Ships) via the U.S. at the Paul Hall Center say the ballast control (from 2 to 15 feet) Defense Region^ Material Of­ Empress II will be an exception­ instructors Ben Cusic, Bill powerful pulse generator/antenna and bilge pumping; a complete fice based in Virginia, under ally versatile and valuable train- Hellwege, Daimy Holden, Ron system that was used to simulate generator balancing system; heat­ terms of theMerchant Marine Act ing tool. Engine and deck Raykows^, Tommy Swarm and an EMP which was radiated at ing and water-treatment systems; of 1936, as amended in 1980. department upgraders routinely Jeff Swanson in transporting the military ships in order to evaluate rigging, anchors and safety rafts; That law reads in part that "excess will use it, as will all members Empress II from Virginia's York their resistance, as well as the self-contained breathing equip­ or surplus vessels, shipboard who participate in firefrghting, River to Piney Point, Md. in potential vulnerability of ship­ ment and other safety gear. equipment and other marine confined space training and January. Pushed by the tug Susan board systems. Collins and directed by the The Empress II, which is fully Equipment, owned by the United damage control courses. The Empress II's integrated functional and has two interior States, may be made available by "It will be in constant use," Seafarer (both Lundeberg School systems consisted of a massive levels, also sports compartments gift, loan, sale, lease or charter to said Lundeberg School Vocation­ training vessels), the barge ar­ transmitter mounted on deck, and for administrative activities and the Federal and state maritime al Director Jim Shaffer, who rived in less than 24 hours. a receiver on the ship being barge control and operation; a academies and to any nonprofit added that instructors currently "The trip was beautiful. We tested. After several years of per­ workshop for barge and equip­ training institution which has are formulating plans to integrate had the best weather that we had for forming such tests, the vessel be­ the entire winter," said Hellwege, came classified as government who directed the transport of Ae surplus. The pulse generator since has barge. "This is a tremendous ac­ Alarm systems are part of the statebeen removed, as has part of the quisition for the school and a realis­ of-the-art equipment aboard the antenna support structure. tic training aid." vessel. Now, it has found a new home High-Tech Testing at Piney Point. "Students will The Empress II was built in the learn by actually performing mid-1980s and launched in 1986. preventive maintenance on the But in some ways, its roots go barges," said Shaffer. "This will B ^ SS lilt ; ?ii back to 1962, when a high-al­ substantially reduce the cost of titude nuclear test in the Pacific maintaining it. disrupted electric power in "It seems like every day, Hawaii, some 600 miles away. someone comes up with another Tests confirmed that nuclear idea about how we can use it." Help Locate This HUssing Child The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children has asked the Seafarers International Union to assist them in locating Kevin Jay Ayotte. Kevin and his brother were upstairs playing in their sum- Kavin Jay Ayotte mer home in Sugarbush, Minn, on September 30, 1982. Their mother went outside for a short while. When she returned, 5ye^old Kevin was gone. The photo at left is shown age-progressed to the age of 13 or 14 years old. Kevin has a scar on the right side of his chin, his speech is limited and he is hearing impaired. At the time of his disap­ pearance, the blonde-haired, blue-eyed child was 4 feet tall and weighed 50 pounds. Anyone having information on the whereabouts of Kevin Jay Ayotte should contact the Na­ tional Center for Missing and Exploited Children at (8(X)) 8435678 or the Missing Persons Unit of the Beltrami County (Minn.) Sheriffs Office at (218) 751-9111. . -:>• 'f "4 •; : -SfM 4 � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 1990-1999 Description An account of the resource Volumes LII-LXI Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993; Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource March 1994 Description An account of the resource Headlines: PENA: FUNDS PUT IN BUDGET TO REVITALIZE U.S. FLEET KEY HOUSE MEMBERS VOW TO ENACT 1995 SHIP BILL SIU PRESSES CASE TO END SEAMEN'S WORK TAX DOT HEAD: INDLAND SAFETY A 'PRIORITY' TOUGH REGS LIMIT ACCESS TO GROUNDFISH FISHERY AFL-CIO URGES BACKING OF KINGS POINT FACILITY DOT, BENTLEY AND U.S. CARRIERS BALK AT CARGO PREFERENCE WAIVER NEW LAW ENDS COAST GUARD'S MAINTENANCE OF DISCHARGES DESPITE ICY WATERS, LAKES SEASON LOOKS GOOD HANNAH TUGS NEVER STOP NEW COVE TANKER CREWED BY SIU MTD URGES CONGRESS TO PASS HEALTH CARE REFORM THIS YEAR INVESTIGATION CONTINUES INTO TRAIN DERAILMENT USCG EXPLORES UNDER-REPORTING OF MISSISSIPPI BARGE ACCIDENTS '94 BRINGS SPATE OF RUNAWAY ACCIDENTS COAST GUARD TO CHECK MORE FOREIGN VESSELS SEAFARERS JOIN STRIKING DIAMOND WORKERS FISHERMEN BRAVE WEATHER ALL YEAR ROUND SEAFARERS KICK OFF 1994 TUBERCULOSIS TESTING PROGRAM COSTLY SPREAD OF ZEBRA MUSSELS AFFECTS SHIPPING, OTHER INDUSTRIES 'LEARN WHILE YOU WORK' IS THEME OF BOSUN DARLEY UNION OFFICERS AND P.R. MEMBERS CONFER ON WIDE RANGE OF ISSUES HOLIDAYS ARE A FAMILY AFFAIR AT THE JACKSONVILLE SIU HALL SEAFARERS BACK SUIT AGAINST USER FEE ESCAPE TO PINEY POINT PAUL HALL CENTER ENHANCED BY NEW BARGE Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 3/1/1994 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 56, No. 3 1994 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/2e856a5820c10f311682e92c29de50e8.PDF aec13c1cd00955fdfe22d6ab84fd4d46 PDF Text Text • • •>•' OFFICIAL ORGAN OF THE SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION • ATUNTIC GULF, LAKES AND INLAND WATERS DiSTRia • AFL-CIO .V •'" -V' "'i'VCfiv -;: s*- •v«SM .^• zM-\ PI:i'-'v^::.:.Pln., ,V-'- t'T % / J. ;j;.':. j-'f -Vr-:::.'- -i'-r '1/' •/••••\ • • V'';# ;U' /,:• • .T- w--r/-4 , r* �,i-«'-..f 2 FEBmUUtri994 SEAFAREKS LOG President's Report Safety on All Waterways There is a double standard in America's maritime safety policy and it is threatening thousands of men and women who earn their living working on tugs, tows and barges, as well as endangering hundreds of coastal communities. The disparity stems from a law which requires all seamen work ing on U.S.-flag ships to have U.S. Coast Guard documents. But the law is silent on the same requirement when it comes to the vast majority of boatmen employed on the nation's tugs and tows. The irony is that navigating and operating any marine equipment takes skilled, proficient mariners. Anyone who thinks that tugboat work is somehow unskilled, ought to think again. The combined tonnage of some boats and their barges often exceeds the tonnage of a Michael Sacco deep sea ship. Yet the tug's crew will be onefourth, perhaps one-fifth, of that of the ocean-going ship. The en­ gine horsepower on tugboats can be in the tens of thousands. The navigation can be tricky, calling for a steady hand, constant vigilance, quick thinking and vast knowledge of river currents, among other things. The tug's safe operation is all the more impor­ tant because it is usually on a river or coastal waterway relatively close to population centers or environmentally sensitive areas. Despite the serious and complex nature of the work men and women perform on tugs and tows, the agency of the U.S. govern­ ment charged with ensuring safe and navigable waterways, the Coast Guard, in most cases, does not have any way of certifying and documenting the men and women who operate these vessels. On the other hand, deep sea mariners are required to hold U.S. Coast Guard-issued merchant marine documents. It is interesting to note that, according to Coast Guard data, in the segments of llie marine transport industry in which mariners are documented by the U.S. Coast Guard, human error accounts for far fewer accidents than in the segment in which mariners hold no Coast Guard papers. Specifically, only one-third of marine acci­ dents involving deep sea and Great Lakes ships are caused by human factors, whereas more than half of the accidents involving tugs and tows were attributable to human error. The need for higher safety standards in the inland field has long been felt by the SIU and its contracted operators. Consequently, we have held ourselves to a higher standard than what is required by law. This is evident in our collective bargaining agreements which institute many safety practices. Seafarers who are trained at the union's Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education to work aboard tugs and tows hold U.S. Coast Guard documents. The training for inland Seafarers at the union's Paul Hall Center is comprehensive, including safety skills such as firefighting, lifesaving, abandon ship procedures, first aid and responding to spills of hazardous materials. The center's classes cover the how-tos of transporting by water all kinds of cargo, including oil, petroleum products, dry bulk commodities and hazardous chemicals. Addi­ tionally, the union and its contracted inland companies have estab­ lished an advisory committee to the Paul Hall Center. This group continually reviews the needs of the industry to ensure that Seafarers working on tugs, tows and barges have the most up-todate training in the field. But while Seafarers and SlU-contracted inland companies are doing their best to maintain a safe work environment on the nation's waterways, there are scores of inland operators that sail with a minimum of safety practices. The spate of disasters involv­ ing non-union tugs and barges raises questions about what can be done to ensure a safer industry. Certainly a first step is the documenting of boatmen by the U.S. Coast Guard. Not only would this be a good national policy, but also it would be a protection of life and limb, a protection to the workers who spend a good part of their lives as boatmen. A bill that would make this requirement a law is now before the House of Representatives. The legislation has the backing of the Seafarers, as we believe such a standard will protect the people who work on the rivers and waterways of the nation. The bill is a vital first step. But more must be done. That is why we in the SIU were gratified to hear Secretaiy of Transportation Federico Pena's comments on the pressing need to find ways to make the nation's 25,777 miles of navigable waterways much safer for all con­ cerned. In such an effort, in behalf of the people who dedicate themselves to safe, efficient river and harbor transport, the SIU will be a strong partner and ally. Volume 56. Number 2 February 1994 The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 0160-2047) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District; AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, Md. 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Second-class postage paid at MSG Prince Georges, Md. 20790-9998 and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, Md. 20746. Managing Editor, Daniel Duncan; Associate Editors, Jor­ dan Biscardo and Corrina Christensen; Associate Editor/Production, Deborah A Hirtes; Art, BUI Brower. iMig Laws Crew Cmnawaded no-^iperb Cable Repair Jirii Seafarers aboard the CS Long Lines recently executed a tricky week-long repair job in the north Pacific. Foul weather could not stop weather was very rough: windy, ship, Michael Hester, Richard the crew of the Long Lines from rain. Cable operations usually Campbell, Ali Al-Salaam, Peter completing a complicated cable take time anyway, but the Leo, Jovencio Cahah, Jr., repair job in the northern Pacific weather made this one more of a Roberto Qneliza, Jr., John Taliafer and Kevin Gatling. challenge." last November. Sailing as splicer/joiners Because of their fine work, the The cable apparently was Seafarers, American Maritime damaged by one or more fishing during the voyage were Allard, Officers and AT&T personnel vessels. After the repair, it was Kathy Chester, Raymond earned accolades from the com­ reburied via a remotely operated Jenkins and Timothy Fogg. The OSs for this trip were pany which operates the vessel. submarine system known as John Qnartey, Charles James, F.M. Hamilton, managing Scarab I. director of the Transoceanic Alexander Schneider, Zaid 'Like Hitting a Wall' Alderwish, Rolfe Welch, Cable Ship Co., which oversees Splicer/Joiner Lisa Allard Andrzej Sienicki, Jayson AT&T's five cable vessels, con­ gratulated and thanked the crew- noted that the work proceeded Agana and Antonio Gonzalez. Seafarers sailing in the engine members for their "superb" work smoothly, despite the foreboding in a letter dated December 2. conditions. 'The high winds were department included Chief "This has been an especially un­ like hitting a wall. We even saw Electricians Michael Las Dnlce comfortable job for all of you, some snow, which is pretty rare at and Randall Firestine, Engine Storekeeper Mark Francois, En­ given the adverse weather and sea." Allard explained that the gine Utilities Anthony Powers, rough seas you experienced," he wrote. "Despite this, every one of repair job first involves cutting Paul Bnrckhard, Jr. and Victor you remained eager to complete the cable and sealing it. Once the Rewerts, Oiler/Utilities Omer the job and you did so in fine work is done, the cable is spliced Sharif, Jeffrey Murray and Laird Mills and Wipers Guy fashion. Your splendid profes­ back into place. "It was hard work and long Leary and Reginald Hunter. sional performance demonstrated The galley gang was com­ that Long Lines does a world class hours, but we got the job done,", she added. prised of Chief Steward David job on every occasion." Seafarers aboard the Long Collison, Chief Cook Eric ManBosun Perfecto Amper, who Lines during these recent events ley, Cook/Baker Ahmed has sailed on cable ships for near­ were Amper, Bosun's Mates Muthana, Third CookAJtilities ly 20 years, said the repair of the cable known as TPC-4 took place Hilary Dombrowski and Walter Richard Garcea and Joseph roughly midway between the Harris, Deck Storekeeper Ar­ Lnhach, Steward Storekeeper West Coast and Japan. "We left thur Lawson, Cable ABs Paul Calimer and SAs John Grier, Ralph Flannigan, Steve Soofi, Michael Seattle on November 13, stopped Stephen Saunders, Jr., Thomas Mac- Russo, German Solar-Nunez, for stores in Port Angeles, Wash, Gregor, Clifford Lattish, Jose Maglalang, Joel Crow, and then went to the repair site. It Rodger Lihdstrom, Leo Bog- Ahdulla Saeed, Sandra Martin, took a whole week-^ay and noson, Donald Hudson, William Plas, Terry Hutson, night—^to do the entire repair and Thomas Beathard, Dean Paul Grier, Florencio Nieves reburying operations," stated the Raymond, Warren Blankenand Ali Saeed. 30-year member of the SIU. "The Northeast Thaw Assists Shipping Va., where several SlU-crewed tugboats operated by McAllister Brothers got stuck in ice. "But overall, the weather didn't stop the shipping end of things," S£ud Mike Paladino, SIU port agent in Norfolk. "Even the tugs getting stuck was nothing major." However, two employees of a launch service died in the Linhaven, Va, Anchorage after one fell into the water and the other attempted to rescue him. Bridge Freezes In addition, an eight-lane drawbridge linking Norfolk with Portsmouth, Va. froze in an upright position for several hours, causing massive traffic backups (but allowing ships to pass fteely). In Philattelphia, SIU tugs and barges operated by Maritrans had Tugs Stuck in Ice difficulty reaching power plants. Similar activity has taken They hardly were alone in having place in Philadelphia, Baltimore that problem, which is one of the and even as far south as Norfolk, reasons why the local power comShipping patterns slowly are getting back to normal in the northeastern United States, fol­ lowing last month's severe ice storms and record cold spells which caused energy shortages in some regions and affected the work schedules of just about everyone exposed to the arctic­ like conditions. In New York, Coast Guard cutters and privately owned tug­ boats have adopted a daily ritual of breaking the foot-thick sheets of ice which blanket the Hudson River. Early February brought a relative warming trend, but nighttime temperatures along the Hudson still were cold enough that the river's 150-foot-wide channel continuaUy refroze. (See page 8 for related story on SIUcrewed ferries.) panies temporarily reduced electricity in homes and businesses. Power companies in Pennsyl­ vania, Maryland, Virginia and Washington, D.C. also reduced their output, and in some cases instituted "rolling blackouts," which are planned outages designed to help the generators maintain operations. Costs Soar Overall, the foul weather practically doubled waterborne transportation costs in the af­ fected areas and caused a dramatic increase in fuel prices. But late last month the sub­ zero temperatures finally began giving way to more tolerable con­ ditions. "It's loosening up now," said Jim Malone, SIU patrolman from the port of Philadelphia. "The ice was 12 inches thick on the Delaware River, but we're getting back to a normal schedule." �::\ •-: FEBRUARY 1994 SEAFARERSL06 3 Non-Union Barge Spill in San Juan Seafarers Turn To In Swift Oil Recovery '. •"* HTW. w. >''i -''V'.-. 'i: V^yv-r (Within hours after an emergency call went out that an ment at the scene. This marked the first time that the boat oil barge had run aground and was leaking, Seafarers had been called into operation. With the assistance of were stringing containment booms and crewing tugboats Coast Guard helicopters spotting trouble areas, the and skimmers to sweep the petroleum before it reached Caribbean Responder contained and took in oil before it thip beaches of San Juan, Puerto Rico. could be swept by waves to non-contaminated areas. Around 4 a.m. on January 7, the barge Morris J. Later in the week. Seafarers working for Crowley Berman broke loose from its line to the tugboat Emily S. positioned a barge near the damaged Berman to transfer oil Clean-up operations begin as Seafarer Benito Calderon and drifted onto a coral reef approximately 300 yards from it. SIU tankermen were caU^ into action to make sure assists others in offloading a containment boom that will from the beaches that serve some of San Juan's best- no more oil spilled during the lightering operation. known hotels. The barge was loaded with 1.54 million After the transfer of petroleum was completed, the be deployed in the Condado Lagoon. gallons of heavy number 6 bunker oil. Several of the barge's holds ripped open, sending its contents toward Continued on page 9 the shore. Among the &st people called out to handle the crisis were Seafarers working for Crowley Maritime. SIU members sprang into action by deploying containment booms around environmentally sensitive areas. "Our people were among the first to arriye," noted Steve Ruiz, SIU Santurce port agent. "The first assign­ ment our members were given was to lay a boom to keep A Coast Guard investigation into the cause of an oil the oil from getting into nearby Candado Lagoon. spill along the San Juan coastline continues one month The work performed by more than 200 Seafarers was after the barge Morris J. Berman lost more than 650,000 vital in keeping San Juan Harbor open, according to U.S. gallons of heavy number 6 bunker oil after rurming Coast Guard spokesman Christopher Haley. The lagoon aground. connects the beach area with the harbor. Had the oil slick A Coast Guard spokesman in San Juan said the federal entered the lagoon it would have gone into the harbor and agency would not have a report ready for several more stopped all maritime traffic. months. He noted Captain Larry Doyle of the agency's However, the fast work by the SIU members Marine Safety Office has not completed his investigatioii prevented any oil from entering the lagoon. into the January 7 incident. While some Seafarers were working with the booms, The Morris J. Berman, loaded with more than 1.5 others were called out to crew the tugs and skimmers million gallons of bunker oil, was being towed by the needed to capture the oil from the water. All available non-union tugboat Emily S. from San Juan Harbor to Crowley tugs were utilized, Ruiz noted. Antigua. The tug/barge left the dock in San Juan around "The company called out all of the captains, mates and 10 p.m. January 6. operators to sail the skimmers because they held marine Both the Morris J. Berman and the Emily S. have been Vacuum pumps used to suck oil from the water arrive at licenses," the port agent said. Tugboats were used to tied in newspaper accounts to a family that has been banned a San Juan beach. SlU members Alfonso Arias (left) and shuttle personnel from the docks to the skimmers aiid from doing maritime business in New York because of F. Prieto assist in setting up the equipment. help where needed. Besides their use to collect oil, the environmental accidents. skimmers also stretched booms to contain petroleum that Crewmembers testified during a Coast Guard public had escaped from the barge. hearing held the week aftes the acc^ident that the one-and^ Responder Called In a-half-inch cable connecting the tug and barge snapped By January 9, the Coast Guard had requested the around 1 a.m. on January 7. The line was repaired at sea SlU-crewed Caribbean Responder, an oil spill response Continued on page 9 vessel operated by Dyn Marine, to augment the equip­ USCG investigates Berman Accident DOT Head Calls ttw Tmigh Inland SaMy Regulatldns . -- y, . One of the many Crowley skimmers operated by Seafarers heads into the oil-fouled Atlantic Ocean. The boats were used to position booms and gather oil. -• Answering the call by removing a containment boom from the back of a flatbed truck is Seafarer Angel Charriez. T h Secretary of Transportation has called for tougher safety requirements on the nation's waterways as legislators continue to study two bills Federico Pena in the House ——— dealing with inland documentation and naviga­ tion. Transportation Secretary Federico Pena voiced his concerns about the inland waterways in an interview published January 14 in The Journal of Commerce. His remarks came days after a barge loaded with heating oil ran aground on a reef within sight of the beaches of San Juan, Puerto Rico and spilled approximately 750,000 gallons. Pena told the newspaper his agency is looking for action to make the waterways safer without having to wait for Congress. "We're the experts; why don't we do it firstT' he was quoted. The secretary added that he was shocked to hear that towboats—such !•: W. v -'V". ' • - iV. .. -Ag; •Atfi: :| I •' ."-fV as the one pushing a string of barges designed to close loopholes that that struck a bridge in Mobile, Ala. allow boatmen to sail without Coast and caused the derailment of a pas­ Guard documents before the Amtrak senger train, leading to the deaths of accident took place. 47 people—were not required to The Inland Documentation Bill have basic navigational tools. ^.R. 1915) calls for all boatmen sail­ In December, Pena outlined ing inland waterway vessels of more several steps to be undertaken by the than five gross tons to hold Coast Coast Guard and the Federal Railroad Guard-issued merchant mariner docu­ Administration to minimize the risk of ments (z-cards). another accident similar to the one that While all deep sea and Great occurred involving the Sunset Limited. Lakes mariners are required to hold The proposal includes more strin­ documents, the same does not apply gent licensing requirements for for the men and women plying the operators of uninspected towing ves­ 25,777 miles of navigable inland sels. This would call for towboat waterways. Two of the four crewoperators to pass simulator tests and members aboard the towboat that written exams each time they want struck the railroad bridge in Big to upgrade their licenses. Bayou Canot near Mobile did not The plan would upgrade the re­ have z-cards, although all of the quirements for radar and navigation­ crew had navigation responsibilities. al equipment on towboats. It would Background Checks look into improving the way In order to obtain a merchant mishaps and accidents are reported. mariner document, Guard Pena's proposal also would seek requires proof oftheaCoast drug-free new means for checking the struc­ urinalysis, a review of the National tural integrity of bridges and strengthening emergency prepared­ Driver Register for drunk driving or substance violations, an ness while enhancing the prospects controlled FBI criminal record background in­ for victims' survival should a crash vestigation, proof of U.S. citizenship occur. or evidence of lawful entry and per­ Document Boatmen manent residency from the ImmigraThe House of Representatives alContinued on page 9 r^dy had started debate on one bill ' 'J' • �V' 4 SEAFARERSLOG Congress to Take Up Ship Program FERRUARY1994 Houston Reps Discuss Campaign MTD Mobilizes Grassroots Drive To Urge Backing of Maritime Biiis Discussions continue on American jobs at risk if the what specific plans were bein Capitol Hill to find ways of federal government fails to take discussed. ^ financing a maritime revitaliza- immediate action to revitalize the States Commitment tion bill passed by the House of industry." ' The secretary restated his Representatives last year, while a Program Before Senate commitment to maintaining grassroots campaign to show sup­ Although the Maritime port for the U.S.-flag merchant Security and Competitiveness strong U.S. merchant marine "Maritime reform is still part o; marine was launched. Act (H.R. 2151) was overwhelm­ the administration's package, The Maritime Trades Depart­ ingly approved by the House of Pena told Traffic World in an in­ Texas gubematorial candidate Jim Mattox (center) meets with ment (MTD) of the AFL-CIO has Representatives by a 347-65 mar­ terview published January 24. SlU Gulf Coast Vice President Dean Corgey (left) and Houston started a national petition drive gin in November, the legislation Pena's statements support calling on the "Congress and the still awaits action in the Senate. speech given by Representative Port Agent Jim McGee after Mattox recently announced his intention to run for the position. administration to undertake im­ Gerry Studds (D-Mass.), chair­ The bill proposes a 10-year mediate action to develop man of the House Merchan programs that will maintain a prograih to provide $1.2 billion Marine Committee, to the healthy, viable U.S.-flag fleet and for a Military Security Heet. Be­ Washington, D.C. Propeller Club a broad domestic shipyard and tween 50 and 70 U.S.-flag vessels in December. During that ad­ would be included in such a pro­ marine industrial base." dress, Studds talked about being The petitions are the latest gram. H.R. 2151 also would create a involved in meetings with Presi­ phase in a grassroots program that dent Bill Clinton, administration began during the MTO's biennial Series Transportation Program to aides and Senator John Breaux convention in October. During help U.S. shipyards build vessels (D-La.), Senate Merchant Marine Gordon Ward Resigns as P1-MEBA President The head of District No. 1-MEBA announced he is retiring the convention, delegates repre­ that are price-competitive on the Subcommittee chairman. senting the department's 42 world market. effective April 30. However, in passing the bill, member trade unions and 28 port Gordon Ward was first elected president of D1-MEBA in 1990 Studds told the audience that the House did not include funding the president had committed him­ and reelected in 1992. The union's executive committee appointed councils heard speeches from members of Congress as well as for it. Talks have been held self to supporting the U.S.-flag Secretary-Treasurer Joel Bem to fill the remainder of Ward's term the president of a U.S.-flag ship- among members of the Clinton fleet. "We had his support be­ which expires in 1995. Executive Vice President Bill Langley, who jping company on the need for the administration. House members cause this president and this ad­ was next in line to succeed the president per the union's bylaws, had and senators to provide a funding ministration believe that if notified the board he preferred to keep his present position. The merchant fleet. In initiating the petition driye, mechanism. America can neither build nor committee then selected Director of Public Affairs Mark Zalenski to Secretary of Transportation operate the ships we require to replace Bem as secretary-treasurer. MTD President Michael Sacco noted, "This 'Keep America's Federico Pena has stated in carry our trade to world markets In announcing his retirement. Ward stated he was proud of the Flag Hying!' effort is essential to several recent newspaper reports or support our troops in time of union's accomplishments under his term of office. Among those demonstrating that there are that a funding mechanism may be war, we will no longer be a super­ isted were the dissolution of the uniqn's merger with the National hundreds of thousands of near. However, he did not disclose power." Maritime Union, which was voted upon by the members in 1992. Ward also announced he plans to step down as the president of the National Marine Engineers' Beneficial Association and chairman of the board for MEBA Plans. After graduating from the Maine Maritime Academy, Ward oined Dl-MEBA in 1968. He has sailed in every licensed shipboard engineering capacity. He also has served as an instructor at the dEBA Engineering School and as a licensed division chairman and The holidays often are a lonely were fascinated," Simmons >ranch agent in New York. time for Seafarers when oceans noted. In addition. Chief Cook separate families and friends. However, for crewmembers Robert Wright, SA Mlgdalia aboard \he, American Cormorant, Ortiz and Storekeeper Evelyn a special Christmas was enjoyed Nordbrok assisted Chief L.A. Quake Does Not Disrupt Shipping by all in Rota, Spain. Steward Goggins in preparing a While docked at the Rota special holiday feast. They served The earthquake which devastated theLos Angeles area on January Naval Base awaiting deployment crewmembers prime rib, turkey 7 apparently did not noticeably affect shipping on the West Coast. orders, crewmembers were shrimp and various other dishes One port area reportedly sustained very minor damage and a few visited by a group of American and deserts. vessels were nominally delayed as the earthquake—which measured school children from the base. "1 love being bosun aboard the 6.6 on the Richter scale — struck the San Fernando Valley area, "They told us that because we Cormorant. This is a great crew, northwest of downtown Los Angeles. were all away from home on and this holiday season only went The American Red Cross reported that56 deaths and almost 8,000 Christmas, it was their idea to to prove that even more to me. We injuries resulted from the quake. In addition, some 50,000 family visit us with some Christmas are truly one big family. dwellings were damaged, including one owned by a Seafarer. cheer. They brought us cookies Christmas was very precious to us George Tricker, SlU port agent in Wilmington, Calif., reported and we sang carols together. all. The visits from (he kids really lat a member's home was destroyed in the disaster. The house was Bosun Charles Simmons told a helped ease most of our sadness Chief Steward D.K. Goggins (left) ocated just 7 miles from the earthquake's epicenter. reporter for the Seafarers LOG. over not being home for the and SA Migdalia "Kat" Ortiz ready 'But he wasn't injured. He has [homeowner's] insurance, and "Everyone participated and it holiday," said Simmons, who the Christmas dinner feast. when we offered to help, he said he was okay," Tricker noted. was probably the best Christmas also provided the photos accom­ Members of the SlU's industrial division, the United Industrial What makes the vessel unique this SlU crew has had away from panying this article. Workers, also were affected by the earthquake. At least several is that a 394-by-135-foot portion Simmons noted that sailing home in a long time. At least it members' homes were damaged, and a UIW shop in San Fernando was for me," the bosun added. aboard the Cormorant is an excit­ of the ship's lifting deck can be operated by 7-Up has shut down for repairs. submerged under water by bal­ Crewmembers gave the school ing job because of the uniqueness However, the more than 100 members employed at the shop children a tour of the ship and of the vessel. Operated by Osprey lasting the ship to a depth of about continue to work at other nearby plants owned by 7-Up. 65 feet. This allows the center of served them various desserts and Ship Management for the the 19,700 horsepower ship to soft drinks prepared by the Military Sealift Command steward department, headed by (MSC), the semi-submersible rest under 26 feet of water. *1* J* The ship, which can sail at a Chief Steward D.K. Goggins. heavy lift ship is one of only 14 "It was the first ship that any such vessels in the world. It is the top speed in excess of 14 knots, of them had ever been on and they only U.S.-flag vessel of its kind. was originally used to transport (ramek Nominated to Head Coast Guard giant semi-submersible and jackThe Clinton administration recently nominated Rear Admiral up drilling rigs, as well as other lobert E. Kramek tosucceed Admiral William Kime as commandant off-shore equipment. The vessel of the U.S. Coast Guard. is currently used primarily for Kime's four-year term expires June 1. Kramek, currently the transportation of military cargo. !oast Guard's chief of staff as well as commanding officer of the The specialized vessel dis­ agency's headquarters, must be confirmed by the Senate before charged cargo in the Persian Gulf, taking office as commandant. providing logistical support to the Kramek, 54, has more than 30 years' experience with the Coast military's Gyration Desert Shield. Guard, in various capacities. He has commanded two of the agency's The 738-foot vessel was originally districts: the 13th district in the Pacific Northwest and the 7th district a 135,000 dwt tanker prior to its in the Southeast U.S. and Caribbean. conversion to its present-day status He also has commanded the Coast Guard's largest base, located in 1982. The Cormorant has been stationed with a contingent of at Governors Island, N.Y., as well as the Haitian Migration task force. maritime prqxrsitioning ships soil­ In the latter job, he led the interdiction and rescue of37,000 Haitians. ing MSC and is currmdy throating A native of New York who currently lives in California, Kramek American children boarded the American Cormorant to deliver graduated from the Coast Guard Academy in 1961. out of Diego Garcia. Christmas cookies and sing carols with crewmembers Local Students Provide Memorable Holiday for American Cormorant • •d ' �•^K«SSaiiK5ffisfe;SF'/¥i5^^ FEBmmY1994 SEAIWWRSUe Great Lakes Vessels Lay Up for the Winter Extended Season Deemed Success •H- "•'*. Seafarers who sail on the Great Lakes signed off for the winter last month, ending an ex­ ceptionally good 1993 shipping season with a year-end flurry of cargo demand. "Cargo demand was.strong all year but showed an extra surge in the remaining months of the year," Glenn Nekvasil of the Great Lakes Carrier Association, which monitors the action of U.S.-flag shipping on the Lakes, told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG. "In November we were even with 1992's figures but that final rush for cargo carried us over the top. Even a small in­ crease is not bad in these times." According to Nekvasil, during the 1993 navigational season (March 10, 1993 to January 25, 1994), 107.9 million net tons of cargo were transported on the Great Lakes. He noted that is a 2 percent increase from the 1992 season. Nekvasil said there was a rise in the demand for iron ore, coal and stone—the "big three" transported along the Lakes. "The weather was good to us most of the year but in December and January we saw all the Lakes freeze and many vessels had to call for Coast Guard assistance several times," he recalled. Sub-Zero Temperatures The H. Lee White, an SIUcrewed vessel, was one of those ships that encountered problems caused by the sub-zero tempera­ tures and icy waterways. SIU Port Representative Ken Homer, who supplied the photos accompanying this article, reported that the vessel became stuck in the ice off Marine City, Mich, on its last voyage. Besides the White, other SIUcrewed American Steamship Co. vessels that braved the freezing temperatures to support the season-end surge in cargo demand, included the American The SlU-crewed H. Lee White became stuck in ice in Michigan on its way back into port before the January 15 ciosure of the Soo Locks. Mariner, Charles E. Wilson and Indiana Harbor. Most SlU-contracted vessels are in the shipyard for their seasonal layup and will not see action during the winter. But, ac­ cording to Byron Kelley, SIU vice president for the Great Lakes, several SlU-contracted cement carriers and tugboats, such as the Hannah tugs, operate most of the winter months on the lower lakes. He stated that one tug will serve as an icebreaker for another that is pushing cargo. NoWordonFitout Kelly noted that with vessels just laying up, no decision has been made when fitout will begin. In sailing seasons past, crewmembers begin reporting to their vessels in March and April, depending on the weather, vessel's location and cargo. New SIU Clinic Opens In Marylaml Seafarers who live in the southern Maryland area as well as upgraders at the Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, Md. now have access to a nearby medical facility which will provide members with their annual physical examinations and routine treatment. The Seafarers Welfare Plan has entered into contract with Calvert Internal Medical group. The clinic is located at 120 Hospi­ tal Road in Prince Frederick, Md., approximately 40 miles from Piney Point. "The members have always had to travel to the Johns Hopkins Center in Baltimore from Piney Point for routine fit-for-duty ex­ aminations," said Dr. Kenneth Miller, Seafarers Welfare Plans medicd director. "Now that we have a contract with the Calvert Internal Medical Group, any trainee, upgrader or member who lives in the southern Maryland area can have medical work done much closer to the school." The clinic is staffed with a group of internal medicine specialists who are capable of handling the special medical requireip^nts of SIU members. "These are high-quality doctors with a broad range of specialties among them," said Miller. Among the services they pro­ vide are job matched pre-employ­ ment physicals, physicals required for licensure, annual ex­ aminations, diagnostic studies (including X-rays), Magnetic Resonance Imaging and CT Scans, hearing tests, vision and glaucoma screenings, blood tests, drug screens, pulmonary function tests, cardiovascular studies (in­ cluding stress testing and EKG), drug tests, motor coordinations •vV:! - tests, and health risk assessments. The Welfare Plan determined the Calvert clinic was able to pro­ vide all of the medical services required by Seafarers. Addition­ ally, the Welfare Plan found the center to be well respected within the medical community. "We picked this clinic because it provides additional services for members in Maryland and greatly enhances medic^ services for the Lundeberg School. This clinic has a history of providing occupa­ tional medicine services to others in the region," Miller noted. The Calvert Intemal Medical Group hours are 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday; 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Wednesday and Friday; and 9 a.m. to 12 noon ori Satur^y. Seafarers wishing to utilize the services of the clinic should con­ tact Piney Point. • :-w. •It' •Si '-M. • SlU-Contracted Clinics (as of Januaiy 1994) A U.S. Coast Guard ice cutter is called into duty on the St. Clair River to clear a path for vessels trying to reach their last port before layup. Oiler's Response Keeps Gueyame en Sch^ule I -"• •• •• tfr' Quick action last month by a Seafarer and an officer aboard the Guayama saved the ship from ex­ tensive damage after an electrical fire started in the engineroom. Oiler Jose Ramos helped con­ tain and extinguish the fire, which involved a generator. A spokesman for Puerto Rico Marine, which operates the Guayama, said that because the fire was stopped so quickly. damage was minimal and repairs were done in just a day in port at Elizabeth, N.J. The vessel then resumed its scheduled course. He added that human error was not the cause of the fire. Brother Ramos shrugged off the incident, dismissing his effi­ cient response as simply part of the job, according to SIU Patrol­ man Jack Sheehan, who serviced the ship shortly after this incident. Straub Occupational Services Business & Industry Health Group IMC Mobile Family Physicians 839 S. Beretania Street 1924—K Dauphin Island 1700 S. Third Street Honolulu, Hawaii 96813 Parkway St. Louis, Mo. 63104 (808) 522-4441 Mobile, Ala. 36605 (314)436-5100 (205) 476-6370 St. Alexis Medical Services Dr. Douglass Cole Hilliard Building Industrial Medicine Group 224 Park Avenue 1415 W. 9th Street 3901 University Blvd. South, Frankfort, Mich. 49634 Cleveland, Ohio 44193 Suite 201 (616) 352-7103 (216) 241-3990 Jacksonville, Fla. 32216 Detroit Industrial Clinic (904)636-0150 St. Mary's Comprehensive Medi­ 2429 Oakwood Boulevard cal Center Industrial Medicine Group Melvindale, Mich. 48122 546 Howard Street 1205 Monument Rd. Suite 203 (313)928-4700 San Francisco, Calif. 94105 Jacksonville, Fla. 32225 Dr. Dennis Dettloff (415)882-7811 (904) 727-5120 115 N. First Avenue Superior Clinic, Ltd. Johns Hopkins Center for Alpena, Mich. 49707 3600 Tower Avenue Occupational & Environ­ (517) 356-2124 Superior, Wis. 54880 mental Health Family Urgent Medical Center (715)392-6111 ' 301 Bayview Boulevard 2700 Point Tremble Baltimore, Md. 21224 Tulane Clinic Algonac, Mich 48001 (410)550-2322 630 Jackson Avenue (313)794-9324 New Ortear>s, La. 70130 Maritime Medical Center Healthmark (504) 595-3050 2 West Dixie Highway 2301 S. Broad Street Dania, Fla. 33004 Virginia Mason Occupational Philadelphia, Pa 19148 (305) 929-0916 Medicine Group (215)952-9904 32231st Ave., So., Suite 0 Dr. Luis Marquez Dr. Richard Hoffman Seattle, Wash. 98134 Ashford Medical Center ItSOZ 142 West York St. Suite 21B (206)624-3651 Santurce, PR 00907 Norfolk, Va. 23510 (809) 724-8128 Dr. Susan Vogel (804)627-7283 Med. Place 1, Suite 1605 Methodist Hospital New York Immediate Medical Care Center 1315 Cattraun 794 Union Street 29409 S. Western Ave. Suite 3 Houston, Tttcas 77002 Brooklyn. N.Y. 11215 San Pedro, Calif. 90732 (713)756-8800 (718)783-6578 (310) 547-4274 •1• V .. �6 FERRUARY1994 SEAFARERS LOG Dyn Marine Crews Ratify New 2-Year Geniracl Seafarers whocrew 16 oil spil also expressed satisfaction wit tion (MSRC), a not-for-profit response ships for Dyn Marine the pact. "They were toug group created by major oil com­ Services recently approved a two- negotiations but. Lord willing panies following the passage of year contract that provides wage it's the start of something benefi the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 increases, improved medica cial for us and for the whole com (CPA '90). coverage and other benefits. pany for years to come," he said, Each vessel is 208 feet long Voting took place last month Tellez commended the efforts and has a nine-person operating aboard the ships, which are lo­ of Fitzsimmons and DeFonce anc crew. In the event of an oil spill, cated along the Atlantic, Pacific described the contract as each ship has quarters for as many and Gulf coasts, as well as in strong foundation that will be as 38 people. Hawaii and the U.S. Virgin Is­ built upon in the future. This Vessels located along the At­ lands. More than 100 SIU mem­ provides gains, as well as a vehicle lantic coast include the Maine bers work aboard the vessels. to address any problems." Responder at Portland, Maine; Dyn Marine crewmembers the New Jersey Responder, Perth Contract Highlights voted late last year to join the Amboy, N.J.; Delaware Re­ In addition to pay increases Seafarers, so this is the first time sponder, Philadelphia; Virginia they are covered by an SIU- the contract calls for an immedi­ Responder, Virginia Beach, Va.; negotiated collective bargaining ate bonus for all crewmembers Georgia Responder, Savannah, Negotiating committee members John Fitzsimmons, Chris DeFonce, agreement. The negotiating com­ who have sailed for at leUst six Ga.; and Florida Responder, SIU Executive VP Joseph Sacco and SIU Assistant VP Anthony mittee consisted of Chief Mate months with Dyn Marine as of Miami. Sacco sign off on the collective bargaining agreement. John Fitzsimmons, Assistant January 1,""1994. Assigned to the Gulf coast are Other highlights include: Engineer Chris DeFonce, SIU • An increase in the amount the Louisiana Responder in Executive Vice President Joseph Venice, La.; Gulf Coast Sacco, SIU Vice President/Con­ paid by Dyn Marine toward Responder, Lake Charles, La.; medical tracts Augie Tellez and SIU As­ crewmembers' Texas Responder, Galveston, benefits—including dependent sistant Vice President Anthony Texas; and Lone Star Responder, coverage and dental insurance— Sacco. Corpus Christi, Texas. "I definitely think we did a lot which in effect will increase each Serving the Pacific coast are better with the union than we member's net pay. • A procedure for settling the Washington Responder, would have on our own," said Everett, Wash.; Oregon DeFonce, who sails aboard the grievances was adopted. Responder, Astoria, Ore.; Pacific • Crewmembers now are New Jersey Responder. "It's a Responder, Richmond, Calif.; long and arduous process, but we eligible for participation in a401k and California Responder, Port retirement plan, as well as an did very well. Hueneme, Calif. "In fact, I didn't fully under­ employee stock option plan. The Caribbean Responder, Located Around Nation stand the negotiating process liased in St. Croix, U.S. Virgin before. Now that I've witnessed Dyn Marine is a subsidiary of slands, and the Hawaii it, I realize how well we did." DynCorp. It operates the oil spill Responder, located in Honolulu, Fitzsimnions, who sails response ships on behalf of the serve the respective regions for aboard the Gulf Coast Responder, Vlarine Spill Response Corpora- which they are named. Docked along the Atlantic Coast is the Marine Responder. --r • Crewmembers from the Pacific Responder tell SIU Port Agent Nick Celona they approve the new contract. From left are Mate James Major, Cook Rodney Willis, AB Brian Hackenbruch, Oiler Eric Collins, Mate John Fitzsimmons, Mate Michael Celona, Asst. Engineer Frank Traylor and Chief Mate Joseph Cobb. Rubrecht and Assistant Engineer Bernard Taheny are ready for work on the Gulf Coast Responder. Labw Anwanees Drive ta 6ahi HMIOI Care Reform J The AFL-CIO opened the new year by announcing the national federation of trade unions will do whatever is necessary to pass comprehensive health care legis­ lation during 1994. AFL-CIO President Lane Kirkland told reporters during a January 11 press conference £at "it would be a shame to allow reform efforts to degenerate into inadequate, partial, ineffective, diversionary and fragmented ap­ proaches." ; Kirkland's comments come in thp wake of a study that noted approximately 400 contracts negotiated in the last two years involving union workers have made changes in order to control health care costs. The ehang^ range from increases in deduct­ Kirkland said. ibles for fee-for-service plans to The AFL-CIO president also adopting managed care stated that trade unionists were programs. not alone in the struggle against rising health care costs. He Concern for Workers added that businesses that pro­ During his talk with reporters, vide insurance coverage for Kirkland noted that three out of their workers suffer an eveiy four work stoppages during economic disadvantage when the last 10 years could be at­ forced to compete against those tributed to health care coverage. who do not. He pointed out that many unionized workers have given up Outlines Principles wage increases in order to main­ While not endorsing any tain their current level of health specific health care reform legis­ benefits. lative package before Congress, ' "I assure you no one has had Kirkland said the AFL-CIO sup­ deeper and more bitter experience ports such principles as quality of with the deficiencies of the care, universal access to care, a American medical care system comprehensive package of than have our trade unionists," benefits, cost controls and fair financing that are found in the Health Security Act offered by the Clinton administration and the single-payer proposal presented by Senator Paul Wellstone (D-Minn.) and Repre­ sentative Jim McDermott (DWash.). Meanwhile, recently negoti­ ated contracts continue to show how health care remains a major concern for union members. Clerical and technical employees at New York University agreed to increases in deductibles in the last two years of a three-year pact in order to maintain their health care benefits. Workers in Paris, Texas covered by a United Food and Conunercial Workers' contract with Campbell Soup also ap­ proved an increase in yearly de­ ductibles so they could keep their benefits. Machinists working for Lock­ heed in Fort Worth, Texas will see an increase in coverage costs no matter if they are covered by fee-for-services (where members pay up front and get reimbursed) insurance or the company-spon­ sored health maintenance or­ ganization. Reports have detailed how Americans are paying nearly three times as much for health care than they did 10 years ago. Almost 39 million Americans are without any type of health in­ surance and millions more are underinsured. 'V •' '-'.r �, FeBRUARY 1994 SOFAREiaUIB 7 •M Seabms OK Delta Queen Pact SIU members who sail aboard the passenger riverboats Delta Queen and Mississippi Queen overwhelmingly approved a new long-term con­ tract that calls for wage increases and improved health care benefits. Voting took place early last month aboard the boats, which operate in the Mississippi River and its tributaries. "I'm very satisfied," said Mississippi Queen Deckhand Rob McLemore, who served on the negotiating committee. "We really got the medical benefits we were looking for—that's the big thing the other crewmembers wanted. I feel good about it, and the length of the contract is a good sign for job security." SIU Executive Vice President Joseph Sacco pointed out that the collective bargaining agree­ ment will apply to crewmembers on the Delta Queen Steamboat Company's newest vessel, the American Queen, when it ^gins operating. (The American Queen is under construction and is scheduled to launch sometime next year.) David Kish, vice president of the company, also expressed satisfaction with the pact and described it as "fair for all concerned." Delta Queen Steamboat Company is based in New Orleans. It also owns Great Hawaiian Cruise Line, Inc. (formerly American Hawaii Cruises), which operates the only U.S.-flag cruise ships, the SlU-manned SS Constitution and SS Indepenidence. Shortly after Delta Queen took over American Hawaii Cruises, the crewmembers from the Inde­ pendence and Constitution approved a long-term contract. Taking a break ^fter a contract meeting on the Mississippi Queen are (from left) Utility Delegate David Briggs, Committee Chairman Rob McLemore, Galley Delegate Donnie Humphries, Deck Delegate Greg Hawkins, Bar Delegate Chris Alo, Seatarer Scott Glen and New Orleans Patrolman Bobby Milan. tyi • •; •. •;7r;s;r ,r;. •• . At Work Aboard The Delta Queen and Mississippi Queen SIU Patrolman Bobby Milan provided the photographs on this page, which show Seafarers at work aboard the riverboats Delta Queen and Mississippi Queen. The SIU members perform a variety of tasks on the passenger vessels, from the cleaning of decks to keeping the engines running smoothly, and from preparing delicious meals to tidying the guests'quarters. Operated by the Delta Queen Steamboat Co., which is based in New Orleans, the boats travel along the Mississippi River and its tributaries. Sometime next year, the Delta Queen fleet is scheduled to expand when construction on the American Queen is complete. The American Queen will be the company's most elaborate riverboat to date—and it will be crewed by Seafarers. Checking the boilers on the Mis­ sissippi Queen is Douglas Kellup, Cabin Attendant Mira Gnoinska always has a smile for pas­ sengers aboard the Delta Queen. First Cook Sylvia Moses has her hands full aboard the Delta Queen. ../.i ? / •; h' 'v: J I '.M 7 ^rwc -.;. - • pr . .''''.SiW-. -fig.-'. I Ir,' Working to get a cabin ready for passengers aboard the Mississip­ pi Queen is Amy Metrailer. • „ ... , stopping for a bite to eat aboard Showing their union pride are (from left) Benlin Johnson, P,atrolman Mississippi Queen are (from Bobby Milan and Marian Childs aboard the MississippiQueen. ^gg^j porter Robbie Rodriguez and gift shop Pursers Ann Hardesty and Beth Stewart. ^1 /-J:;'-; ••• •;r. Aboard the Mississippi Queen, Porter Henry Brown shows his satisfaction with the pact. iMlSft ii 4,' V Oiler Allen Bigner reviews the con­ tract on the Mississ^i Queen. Putting away stores on the Delta Porter Herb Carter checks a list Queen is Rrst Cook Randall Pace, aboard the Mississippi Queen. f Ready to start his shift on the Oiler John Sares is hard at work s^/Oiieenis PorterKainCasimer. atx^ard the DeAa Queen. Galley gang memtrers Adam GelMembers of the Afes/sappr Queen housekeeping team are happy to bard (left) and Donnie Humphries Waiter Lorenzo Alston works TrdyingupontheMesiSS/jDpfQueen receive their unioti books.Ft^ left are Nadene COT retriwe ^ores from the COO^ aboard the Mississif^i Queen. is Cabin Attendant Susan Creech. Berilyn Johnson, Julta HtU, Katre McKemon and Altce Naccarato. the Mississtppt Queen. v:yfy.yJ'y-rr / v'' jf •• .. '" ,'ky •'• I' . m'- �8 FEBRUARY 1994 SEAFARERSUa Hew Ywk Fwry Crews Beat Hudsim's Icy Maze Local mariners, U.S. Coasi Guard personnel and citizens have described the bitter weather in the New York/New Jersey region as the worst they have seen : The way Seafarer Mark Sum­ in 20 years, according to mers sees it, the Blizzard of '93 newspaper reports. After the initial onset of severe didn't stop SlU-crewed ferries weather in mid-January, tugboats from maintaining their routes on had to clear paths along the Hud­ the Hudson River between New son. But even though much of the York and New Jersey, so neither sprawling ice cover was broken, should the Arctic Blast of '94. it did not melt. "We've got some pretty The ice floes and smaller diehard customers who have chunks that remained in the river stuck with us through everything. made for some loud and bumpy We saw them through the ferry rides, but the captains and nor'easter last year, when every­ deckhands used extra caution and thing else was shut down. Be­ passengers seemed unfazed. cause we got them to work then, "You have to pick your course when this ice started, I think they through the ice very carefully. knew we'd be here," said Sum­ You've also got to be real careful mers, who captains one of 12 with your speed, because you SlU-crewed ferries which shuttle don't want to rip open the hull," almost 20,000 passengers daily between Manhattan and the New said Summers, who has worked the ARCORP-operaled fer­ Jersey towns of Weehawken and on ries, each of which has a capacity Hoboken. of about 400 passengers, since Despite sub-zero temperatures they began operating in 1988. SlU-crewed ferries, including the one pictured above, have maintained their schedules and ridership and giant sheets of 10-inch-thick "(llie ice) makes a racket, but I'd despite the harsh weather in the New York/New Jersey region. ice on the Hudson, Seafarers per­ say we kept three-fourths of our severed throughout January and ridership" during the bad The Seafarers who work on against the city lights. That's cause they spend their whole lives early this month to maintain feny weather. the ferries also recently approved indoors." something you really have to service. Although the icy condi­ Members Stress Safety a new three-year contract. watch." tions doubled the average time of The pact includes wage in­ Rebelo, who has worked on Handled Earlier Crisis Both Rebelo and Summers a one-way trip (to about 15 or 20 creases and maintaining of health the boats for two years, noted, commended the company, owned This is not the first time the minutes, depending on the route), care benefits. brings the We just go slow and easy. We the 100-foot ferries have stayed regularly have the senior deck­ by ArthurImperatore, for its com­ boats have been pressed into spe­ members into Itthealso SIU Pension mitment to keep the ferries run­ cial service. Last February, fol­ open for business and have not hand go down and check for Plan, retroactive to each ning despite the unusually harsh lowing the explosion which b^n stuck or had an accident. damage, because we'll take hits conditions. individual's starting date of rocked the World Trade Center, "We're doing quite well, all (from the ice) that shove the boats They also expressed surprise the ferries quickly increased the employment. things considered," said Captain sideways. Remember, they're that several of the passengers opt number of runs and pick-up loca­ The collective bargaining Manny Rebelo. "The ice is made of aluminum. for a topside trip on the ferries. tions. They worked on an emer­ agreement "does justice for chewing up a lot of (propellers), "But it's not really scary," he Even with a full load, we can fit gency schedule to relieve the management and ourselves," said but that's to be expected. added. "The one thing about the all of them below (in an enclosed overcrowding for the city's Summers. "We have to realize "We've had veiy good press ferry that is constant in every area)," said Summers. "But we thousands of stranded commuters, that if management can't operate and very good feedback from the captain's mind is, you can lose still get 20 to 30 people per trip because other public transportation at a profit, then we don't have jobs." people." even a large, oceangoing vessel who want to ride outdoors, be­ was severely disrupted. Seafarers Brave Sub-Zero Temps New SWATH Vessel, USNS Abie, Braaia Out This Monili Seafarers aboard the USNS Able, a new Small Waterplane Area Twin Hull (SWATH) design T-AGOS vessel, are scheduled to sail on the ship's premier voyage this month. The Able is one of four "TAGOS 19" vessels—the newest class of T-AGOS ships. Seafarers aboard the first of the four SWATH ships, the USNS Vic­ torious, sailed out of the port of Honolulu on August 19. The remaining two—the Effective and Loyal—have not begun sailing operations. The Able, owned by the Military Sealift Command (MSC) and operated by U.S. Marine Management, is used for USNS Tenacious Goes Global ocean surveillance purposes. The SWATH ship's home port is Nor­ folk, Va. It is designated to per­ form highly classiried missions for the U.S. Navy. "It is a very new-wave ship. I'd like to talk to some of our guys after they sail just to see what it was like," said Bobby Clinton, patrolman from the port of Nor­ folk. The unique vessel is 234 feet long, 93 feet wide, has a 24-foot draft and a top speed of 9.6 knots. It is designed to comfortably sus­ tain rough seas so that the tech­ nicians aboard can safely carry out their assignments. The mission of the ship is to collect, process and transmit acoustic data in support of Sur­ veillance Towed Array Sensor System (SURTASS) mission re­ quirements. SURTASS is a mobile, passive acoustic under­ water surveillance sensing sys­ tem. The objective of SURTASS is to gather, analyze, record, process and disseminate under­ water acoustic information. According to U.S. Marine Management, the new SWATH vessels are specially designed to operate in high sea states such as sea-state 7 but can survive above sea-state 8. The Beaufort Scales (a manual used to define various sea states ranging from a low of 0 to a hur­ ricane level of 12) define seastate 7 as wind speeds of 32 to 38 niiles per hour (which is near gale force). The SWATH design provides superior motion characteristics in higher sea states required for year-round deployment of SUR­ TASS in all the world's oceans. The Able, much like the Vic­ torious, has almost everything a person needs while at sea for a long period of time. Each room has a video player and television. There is also an exercise room, ship's store, a self-service laundry and a medical treatment facility. Crewmembers aboard the USNS Tenacious established a new milestone on December 6 by becoming the first T-AGOS ship to complete a circumnavigation. While T-AGOS ships have become a familiar sight on the oceans of the world, none had traveled a con­ tinuous circle around the globe until the Tenacious crossed the meridian of her home port, Pearl Hartxjr, Hawjaii. Pictured above are the captain and crewmembers who were aboard when the vessel completed the circumnavigation. The Tenacious, operated by U.S. Marine Management for the Military Sealift Command and contracted by the SIU, departed Pearl Harbor The Able is the second of four new SWATH vessels which can comfortably operate in high sea states. on Decembers, 1992. �i ;• 1; ;-:^v •.f»..r--cs. —'-••» -•• --•• FEBRUARY1994 -•s ifS'sfv;'- 200Seafarers Aid in Etfmt Te Recever Oii Continued from page 3 SlU-crewed tugboat Mariner towed the Berman to a site 20 miles offshore where the barge was scuttled. ••-• ,.'i::,i' SEAFARERS LOG Skimmers Capture Oil According to the CoasfGuard, 882,000 gallons of oil were col­ lected during the transfer. Of the 662,000 gallons that leaked, from the Berman, skimming and con­ tainment crews captured 336,000 gallons. Coast Guard Commander Boh Ross, who was in charge of the overall clean-up effort, praised the fast response by the crews. "Thanks to clean-up operations, we were able to reduce a potential 1.5 million gallon spill to a 300,000 gallon spill," Ross told reporters. "This kind of effective­ ness under difficult, dangerous and demanding circumstances is remarkable." Efforts Praised His sentiment was echoed by others involved in the clean-up. "We were extremely pleased to have been able to demonstrate our effectiveness and professionalism • '"Vr?;-;'" 9 An oil spill response crew launches an outboard boat that will tow a containment boom. and commitment to Puerto Rico," added Raul Iglesias, Crowley's manager for environmental operations. "This is our homeland and to defend these precious natural resources and historic places is truly an honor." "Our guys gave everything they had," Ruiz stated of the 200 Seafarers who participated in clean-up efforts during the-first two weeks of the operations, the busiest time of the activity. SIU members still are involved in the effort, which is expected to con­ tinue through the month. .. Coast Guard Investigates Spill Of Non-Union Barge's Cargo Continued from page 3 and the tug and barge set sail again. Crewmembers told Doyle at the hearing that the repair was made improperly and a deckhand suggested to the captain that they should return to port. (Testimony given at the hear­ ing revealed that the line was sup­ posed to have been replaced before the tug set sail. But the marine supply store was closed for a holiday and the captain decided to make one more journey with the line which had broken pre­ viously in August 1993.) No Lookout About six hours after the tug and barge originally set sail, the pilot of the tug noticed that the cable had snapped again. As the captain had given all other crewmembers permission to catch some sleep following the repair, no one was standing lookout. By the time crewmembers were awakened and the barge was spotted, the Berman had drifted into shallow waters and could not be retrieved. The pilot on the Emily S. notified die Coast Guard of a pos­ sible hazardous situation and the emergency response plan was placed into effect. The Berman had lodged itself on a coral reef approximately 300 yards from beaches belonging to several of San Juan's finer hotels. Two holds ripped open and oil began to spill onto the shore. SlU-contracted Crowley Marine was among the first com­ panies to respond to the disaster. Of the more than 1,(X)0 people involved in the clean-up opera­ tions, nearly 200 were Seafarers. The Coast Guard estimated that 662,000 gallons of oil es­ caped from the barge. Of that total, 336„000 gallons were recovered by skimming or vacuuming the oil from the sea. The SlU-crewed Responder assisted in skimming some of the spilled oil. Approximately three miles of beaches were affected by the spill. A Coast Guard spokesman said, the agency is unable to predict when clean-up efforts will be completed but they are ex­ In one of the first actions taken immediately after the spill. Seafarers pected to continue through the lower a vacuum pump for use to collect oil from the ocean water. month. Pena Seeks Tougher Regs Te Cover Inland Waterways Ties to Polluters New Jersey records reveal a connection between New England Marine, the owner of the barge, and the Frank family of New York and land waterway vessels to be New Jersey. New York environ­ Continued from page 3 equipped with marine charts, mental officials in 1990 called the navigational publications, com­ companies operated by the Franks tion aiid Naturalization Service pass, radar and fafliometer. Hear­ the worst polluters in New York and proof of employment in the into the September train ings Harbor. Businesses associated with industry or evidence of military wreck uncovered that the towboat the Franks have been found guil­ service. involved did not ca^ a compass, ty of negligently spilling Before the Coast Guard will marinecharts or navigational tools, hunditds of thousands of gallons issue a z-card with an advanced of oil in dozens of incidents, of rating, the applicant must pass a nor was it required to by law. A study conducted by the illegally dumping sewage sludge Coast Guard examination in­ SIU of Coast Guard data be­ and of operating tank vessels that dicating proficiency and tween the late 1970s and midwere not licensed and maintained knowledge of the rating. Also, 1991 found that in 58 percent of properly. merchant mariner documents the accidents on the inland In December, another barge must be renewed every five waterways, the leading cause owned by New England Marine years. was human factors. These were Services had spilled 1,000 gal­ defined by the federal agency to Navigational Equipment lons of bunker oil by overloading Since 1992, the SIU has sup­ include bypass of available the BGI Trader. The spill tem­ ported such legislation, which is safety devices, inattention to porarily closed the Army Ter­ before the House Coast Guard duty, intoxication by alcohol or minal Channel, the main route and Navigation Subcommittee. drugs, calculated risk, careless­ used by cargo ships traveling The oAer piece of legislation ness, error in judgment, lack of through San Juan Harbor. dealing with inland safety also is knowledge or training, lack of before the same subcommittee. experience, operator error, Its chairman. Representative fatigue, stress, physical impair­ Billy Tauzin (D-La.), offered the ment, psychological impair­ Towing Vessel and Navigational ment, failure to comply with Safety Act (H.R. 3282) in Oc­ rules or regulations, inadequate supervision and failure to follow tober. Tauzin's bill calls for all in­ ffie rules of the road. • • ,' • The stranded Morris J. Berman straddles a coral reef as waves bring oil spilling from the barge onto the San Juan shoreline. The insert shows some of the damage caused on the first day. Tens of thousands of mariners working aboard more than 3,300 tugs and tows plying the nation's 25,777 miles of navigable vj/atenways are endangered by a loophole in maritime safety standards for rivers. �10 FERRUARY1S94 SEAFARERS LOG SEAFARERS SCHOLARSHIPS Members and Dependents Should Apply Now! When the date "April 15" is men­ tioned, the first thing that comes to mind is INCOME TAXES ARE DUE! But for Seafarers, April 15 isn't all bad; rather, it is a deadline in which money and opportunity are returned instead of owed. For April 15 is the last day in which applications are being accepted for the 1994 Seafarers Scholarship Program. All Seafarers and their spouses and children who plan to attend college are encouraged to apply for one of seven scholarships being given out in 1994. Three will go to SIU members; the other four will go to the spouses or dependent children of eligible Seafarers or SIU pensioners. Awards are granted for both two- and fouryear institutions of higher learning. One of the scholarships reserved for SIU members is a $15,000 fouryear college stipend; the other two are $6,000 two-year awards to study at a vocational school or community col­ lege. Four scholarships in the amount of $15,000 each are awarded annually to the spouses and dependent children of Seafarers and SIU pensioners. Ap­ plicants should indicate whether they are applying for a two-year or fouryear grant. The $15,000 college scholarships will be paid at the rate of $3,750 per year over a four-year period. The coupon below to the Seafarers Wel­ $6,000 awards are paid at the rate of fare Plan. For most scholarship win­ ners, receiving the cash grant can $3,000 per year. Eligibility requirements for greatly ease the financial burden as­ Seafarers and their spouses and un­ sociated with attending college. Many married dependent children are former scholarship winners say they spelled out in a booklet which con­ never would have had the opportunity tains an application form. It is avail­ to pursue their education without the able by filling out and returning the help of the Seafarers' scholarship. Submission Deadline: April 15,1994 Application Checkiist The scholarship application form must be completed by ALL ap­ plicants. It is easy to fill out. What may take some time, however, is collecting the other paperwork which must be submitted along with the application. This includes: E] Autobiographical State­ ment. Space for this is provided on the back of each application form. D Photograph of Applicant. This should be a black and white passport-type picture and should be attached to the autobiographical statement. n Certified Copy of Birth Cer­ tificate if it is not already on file with the Seafarers Welfare Plan. (Only applicants for a dependent's scholar­ ship are required to furnish this item.) CH High School Transcript AND Certification of Graduation. Request both of these items from your high school and ask that they be sent directly to the Scholarship Committee. n Official Copy of High School Equivalency Scores. If you earned a high school diploma as a civilian by taking the high school equivalency examination, known as the tests of General Educational Development (or GED), have the state Department of Education in the state where you took the test send an official copy of your scores directly to the Scholarship Committee. If the GED test was taken while in the military, contact the ap­ propriate agency and ask that an of­ ficial copy of your scores be sent directly to the Scholarship Commit­ tee. CH College Transcript If you already are attending college, or if you previously have attended col­ lege, ask the Office of the Registrar to send an official transcript directly to the Scholarship Conmiittee. CH Letters of Reference. Three letters are required for all applica­ tions. For dependents, one of these letters must be from your high school principal or one of your high school teachers. If you have at­ tended, or are now attending college, a fourth letter of reference is re­ quired which must be written by the Dean of Students or by your primary advisor. The letters should attest to your character and qualities of leadership, and should describe the nature and extent of the extracurricular ac­ tivities in which you participate. [Zl SAT or ACT Results. The ACT or SAT test must be taken no later than February of the year in which the aw^ds are granted. This is necessary to ensure that the test results reach the Scholarship Com­ mittee in time for its deliberations. The testing service should send the results directly to the Scholarship Conmiittee. (Be sure to request an additional score report form at the time you apply for the test.) On the registration form for either test, space is allotted to write in a code number that will ensure the score report is sent directly to the Seafarers Welfare Plan. For the ACT test, this code number is 2875; for the SAT test, this code number is 0110. The application form and the first three items listed here should be mailed by the applicant. All other items should be mailed by the person or agency from which they are re­ quested. All items should be sent to: Scholarship Program Seafarers Welfare Plan 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 'i. Send for Your Application Form Today please send me the 1994 SIU Scholarship Program booklet which contains eligibility J information, procedures for applying and the application form. Name Book Number Address City, State, Zip Code _ Telephone Number I This application is for: • Self • Elependent Mail this completed form to Scholarship Program, Seafarers Welfare Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MP 20746. im �f&RmUtY1994 XAFARERSLOG ft •..i."V. ,;;vv'i|^:|„. Engine department delegate QMED Meivin Layner signs the ship's minutes. •- •x -: • ': •'S?as.<K '' S/L Independence Crew Rated 'Second to None' On Asian Shuttle Run At the end of the day, AB John Nagy takes time to write a letter home. F AB Jim Morgan discusses the status of maritime legislation before Congress at the union meeting aboard ship. After the union meeting, SA Abduila Baabbad (left) and Bosun J.R. Wilson sign the ship's minutes to be sent to headquarters. ROM LONG BEACH, Qallf. to the shores of Kaohsiung, Taiwan, Seafarers aboard the Sea-Land Independence work unrelentingly to keep the vessel in top form and the crewmembers in good spirits. In a recent letter to the Seafarers LOG (along with the photos accompanying this story). Recertified Bosun J.R. Wilson wrote, "The Independence crew is second to none, and we had nothing but smooth sailing from Oakland, Calif, to Hong Kong." He noted there is always good attendance at the ship's union meetings. At the most recent meeting, crewmembers commended Chief Steward Nancy Heyden, Chief Cook Carlton GrlfHn and SA Abdullah Baabbad for the excellent meals they prepare. AB Mitch Santana also said there is always a variety of fresh vegetables and fruits. The SlU-contracted vessel follows a rotation schedule sailing from Long Beach, Calif., to Oakland, Calif., to Dutch Harbor, Alaska and then on to the Far East ports of Tokyo, Kobe and Okinawa, Japan; Hong Kong; and Kaohsiung, Taiwan before returning home to Long Beach. The Independence, which at one time had been running on the European and Middle Eastern routes, became part of the interAsian shuttle in 1992. The 23,000 deadweight ton containership is one of 12 vessels in Sea-Land's D9J class. The vessels originally were built in 1980 and were designed to travel at 22 knots. In 1985, the vessels were lengthened to 846 feet to expand their capacity. The expan­ sion caused the maximum speed of the vessel to decrease to 20.7 knots. Other modifications were made to the interior of the ship as well. Crewmembers aboard theenjoy the use of modem exercise equipment as well as laundry facilities and a large mess area. The containership can carry dry, liquid or refrigerated goods. Indonesian Seaman Saved by Lee Crew Seafarers aboard the LNG Leo struggled in darkness and heavy seas to save the life of an Indonesian seaman who, along with 27 other crewmembers aboard an Indonesian-flagged freighter, abandoned ship on November 27 off the coast of China. (For more details surround­ ing the rescue, see the January issue of the Seafarers LOG.) The Dasa Tujuh was en route from Yeew, Malaysia to Kaohsiung, China with a cargo of logs when it sank. The Leo crew battled fierce seas while dodg­ ing debris from the Dasa Tujuh for more than two hours and brought First Assistant Engineer Sukarno Hati to safety aboard the LNG ship. The rescue crew was made up of Second Mate Raymond Beyler, Third Assistant En­ gineer Brian Brewer, AB Jack Pegram Jr., AB George KebUs and QMEDs Jeffrey Yarmola and Michael DlAngelo. The me Leo LA:U crewmen i;icwiiicjn were ww*.- pommended by -J; Master N.M. Smith for their bravery in the rescue. ABLesFarrel took the photos accompanyine this article and AB Pegram supplied an ® account of the crew's efforts. ^'-:l ''.••A •• Chief Electrician Cardei Dunn reads a magazine while waiting for other crewmembers to as­ semble before the union meeting. '• • V j;" '• I' "Y V ,V DEU Saeed Muflahi relaxes in his fo'c's'le after a long day of work. Eager to take part in the shipboard union meet­ ing, AB Mitch Santana arrives early. , " ' "i"" ' -l" • 'v.- .. The rescue crew and survivor (standing, left to right) I I lO W IVJ WVil VI \W»MI iVii 1^9 are ABS Jack Pegram Jr. and George Kebiis^ Third Assistant Engineer Brian Brewer, Second Mate Raymond Beyler, (kneeling, left to right) QMED Jeffrey Yarmola, survivor Sukarno Hati and QMED Michael DlAngelo. ^ ^ jhe survivor clung to a water ra- The life jacket worn by the jjop a life ring and a smoke seaman had no whistle, survival marker. light or reflective tape. • 4 "'Vj.vv , •" • 4 • •' 4-.' . ,V •- . 'is �12 SEAFARERS LOG FEBRUARY 1994 Bosun Little Retires with 'Island' Send-Off Recertified Bosun John Little Bosun Little told a reporter from which operates the Overseas planned a peaceful and unevent- the Seafarers LOG. Arctic. f^ul last voyage aboard the OverChief Steward Rose noted that Started on Lakes seas Arctic before signing off to together with galley gang mem­ The Kentucky native began begin his retirement after sailing bers Chief Cook Jim Willey and his career with the Seafarers in 43 years aboard SIU vessels. But SA Arnulfo Lacayo, a superb 1950 in the port of Detroit. on November 6, he found that his feast was created to honor the "I was working on an auto as­ fellow union brothers and sisters, ship's "Brother of the Year." sembly line while living in along with licensed crewmem- Chief Cook Willey prepared Detroit when one of the guys told bers, had other plans on how to everything from stuffed shrimp to me that I could sail for money and send him off. marinated brisket of beef on the work on the water. I thought that Crewmembers surprised ship's barbecue grill while all sounded like a good deal so I went Bosun Little with a Hawaiian steward department members down and signed on with the luau, "island style," that included prepared numerous special salads union," he recalled. festive food, decorations and and desserts. A special retirement He first sailed aboard an iron fresh flower leis. Chief Steward cake also was designed by the ore carrier oh the Great Lakes Frahchesca Rose provided the galley gang and presented to the until the Lakes closed down for Seafarers LOG with details of the bosun at the luau. ^ the winter. He then traveled to the special event and the photos ac­ Baltimore hall to see if there were 'Top-Notch' Department companying this article. any shipping positions available. "The Arctic steward depart­ "They had told me that we began sailing deep sea, Once he were going to haVe a ship's bar­ ment is tmly top notch, and they he never returned to the Great becue which is not unusual for always work hard to have great Lakes. In 1975, Little successful­ On the deck of the Arctic, Bosun Little, wearing a fresh flower lei, this particular ship, so I never meals. The food at the luau was ly completed the bosun recer- smiles for the camera while holding a gift from the crew. suspected a thing with all the superb, but that is not unusual for tification program at the cooking and chaos going on that this group," recalled the bosun. Lundeberg School. ship. It was a challenging job but operated by Maritime Overseas day. I was cleaning the stem Crewmembers presented Lit­ that was what I enjoyed most. We Corp., has transferred cargo from "I sailed for 43 years and have before the party began. When I tle with a colorful flower lei and no regrets over the way I spent my consistently had the best crews the Overseas Ohio, Overseas got on deck they all yelled gifts from Seafarers, the officers life. Going to sea is a wonderful made up of the best searhen and New York, Overseas Chicago and surprise and boy was I surprised!" and Maritime Overseas Corp., experience if a guy applies him­ our record was excellent," he Overseas Washington, among self and really believes in the recalled. others. union," Little noted. Between 1986 and 1991, over "We were responsible for He recalled that his favorite 80 million net barrels of taking oil off of other ships so part of his sailing career was with petroleum products were trans­ their draft could reach the point the Arctic when it was involved in ferred from one ship to another- where they could get into port to lightering operations off the U.S. a process known as lightering. discharge," noted Little. The crew of the Overseas Arctic Now, the bosun plans to spend coast. 'It was the best job I ever had. had a ICQ percent agcident-free his retirement hunting, fishing, It was very physically demanding and spill-free record. traveling with his wife and and required excellent seamanThe tanker, built in 1971 and "generally taking life easy." Deck Gang Keeps MV Pacific Primed 'ir v''-' 'iii; -.. -'.-.•:'...i;'..:o>-'--iIi' "'. Seafarers gather with Bosun Little on his last trip before he signed off. Galley gang members spent days Chief Steward Franchesca Rose preparing the menu for the party, holds the specially baked cake. Chief Cook Jim Willey and SA Arnulfo Lacayo begin to barbecue the meats for the island style luau held in honor of Bosun Little. For deck department mem­ Gaffigan are recent graduates of for the Military Sealift Com­ bers aboard the Sealift Pacific, the trainee program while AB mand, was built in the mid there is never an end to the hard William "Smitty" Dize, Jr. 1970s. It is 563 feet long, 84 feet work or efforts put forth by recently attended upgrading clas­ wide and travels at approximate­ crewmembers to keep the vessel ses. Other deck department mem­ ly 15.5 knots. clean and in top form. The vessel transports oil bers include ABs Ramos, Frank The deck department, headed Atkins and David Zurek. products such as jet fuel and gas by Bosun Fred Gongora, is al­ "I am thankful for and ap­ oil for the U.S. military between ways busy docking and undock- preciate all the knowledge, ex­ Italy, Greece, Norway, Spain, ing, loading, discharging, perience, dedication, hard work England and Turkey. Prior to butterworthing and tank cleaning. and most of all the team effort this Europe-Mediterranean run, In a recent letter to the put forth by us all, especially the ship had a U.S. Gulf Coast Seafarers LOG, AB Ricardo Bosun Fred," the AB concluded. run. During Desert Storm, the Ramos wrote, "In between our The Sealift Pacific, operated Pacific was stationed in the In­ routine work schedules, we per­ by International Marine Carriers dian Ocean. form other deck maintenance such as preparing various sur­ faces for painting. Within the last six months, we have painted all four pumproom levels, forepeak and main deck—just to name a few." Ramos provided the LOG with the photos accompanying this article of the deck gang's most recent accomplishment: the painting and cleaning of the paint locker. The AB not^ that Bosun Gongora has plans for the mid­ ship house to te painted next. Ramos stated that there have In the finished paint locker are (from left) OS Selby Washington, AB been recent additions to the Frank Atkins, Bosun Fred Gongora and AB Ricardo Ramos. department from Piney Point. OSs Selby Washington, Richard Gendaszek and Brian OS Brian Gaffigan and AB Frank Atkins were part of the locker- Cleaning out the carpenter's shop are (from left) AB Ricardo Ramos painting "spray team." and OS Richard Gendaszek. �I '.-.'lfii* lv'5, ..'^&l-> '*•, '* KBItaMri994 SEAFARBRS LOG r^^^ffuulCO Volume 56, Number 2 TAX TIPS FOR SEAMEN Special Supplement 13 A guide for Seafarers to refer to when preparing 1993 tax returns due to the Internal Revenue Service and state governments on April 15. February 1994 Step 6. Attach all required forms and schedules. At­ tach the first copy of Copy B of Forms W-2, W-2G and 1099R to the front of the Form 1040. Attach all other schedules and forms behind Form 1040 in order of the attachment sequence number. If tax is owed, attach the payment to the front of Form 1040 along with Form 1()40-V (original only). STATE: TAXES NOT WITHHELD The law prohibits employers from withholding state and local taxes from the wages of seamen working aboard 'R SEAMEN, the tax filing process can become U.S.-flagships. OR M/CTTC/^A mno/nM A extremely complicated. The nature of seafaring Specifically the law [46 USCA 11108(11)] provides itemized deducfiopa4n Personal IntefestBeducations: For 1993, personal u/nrir rajcflc z. that oo pait of the wages due or accruing to a master, work raises many issues at tax time iU-* that most interest cannot be deducted. Personal interest includes officer or any other seaman who is a member of the crew shoreside workers do not have to consider. interest on car loans, credit cards and personal loans. on a vessel engaged in the foreign, coastwise, intercoasAmong the concerns raised by seamen interviewed by Interest on Secured Loans Deductible: Interest paid tal, interstate or noncontiguous trade shall be withheld the Seafarers LOG were questions of claiming a on mortgages or secured loans is 100 percent deductible. residence for purposes of filiiig state tax returns andlhe .Pur?"ant to the provisions of the tax laws of any state, Union Dues Deduction: Union dues are only deduct­ issue of what is considered a work-related tax deductible temtory possession or common^wealth, or a suMivision gross expense. ™ them, but nothing in this section shall prohibit ible if they exceed 2 percent of adjusted _ _ . income. If In preparine this guide of tax tins for seamen the staff ®"y ®"ch withholding of the wages of any seaman who is Jhey do, only the portion over the 2 percent is deductible; i_- ^ with a^ certified .?• , public , accountant ' . . emnloved employed in the coastwise trade between nnrts ports in the SPAD contributions haVe never been deductible. of the LOG, working Deducting Work-Related Expenses: Expenses as­ same state if such withholding is pursuant to a voluntary familiar with the maritime industry, has attempted to sociated with a seaman's work may be considered tax agreement between such seaman and his employer." gather information that addresses the concerns of The law, however, does not exempt seamen from deductible. However, no expense can be deducted for Seafarers. paying state and local taxes. A seaman, just like any other which a seaman has been reimbursed by the employer. citizen of any given state, must meet his or her obligations Travel to the union hall to register or travel to the union's FOR MORE INFORMATION to the government of the area in which he or she lives. designated medical facility to take the required physical General Information: 1-800-829-1040 can be called Each state has a set of criteria to determine whether an and drug tests are examples of expenses which are workfor general information. IRS staff answer questions from individual is a resident of that state. A seaman should related but not reimbursed by the company. Members of 8:00 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. local time Monday through Friday. check with a state tax office if he or she is unsure as to the galley crew may deduct Ae costs of knives and other equipment they personally own but use when on a ship Publications: 1-800-829-3676 operators will take or­ his residency status. For example, in California during the early 1970s, a performing their work duties. The purchase of work-rer ders for publications. "#553 Highlights of 1993 Tax Changes" and "#552 Record Keeping for Individuals" are case before the California State Board of Equalization lated clothing and other gear, as long as it is truly for work "ot pai^ for by the employer, are likely to be contwo publications that many people find especially useful. stated that a merchant seaman—despite the fact that he Walk-In Help: IRS representatives are available in was on a ship for 210 days of the year—was a resident of sidered tax-deductible. Deducting Work-Related Car Expenses: Use of a many IRS offices around the country to help with tax Restate for tax purposes. The board took into consideraquestions that cannot be answered easily by telephone. tion the fact that the seaman owned a home in Califomia personaUy-owned automobile m work-related travel can To find the location of an IRS office, look in the phone and maintained a bank account in a Califomia-based result in deductible expenses. Two methods can be used to compute automobile expenses—either listing a standbook under "United States Government, Internal bank. ard mileage rate or determining actual cost. On the tax Additionally, each state has established conditions Revenue Service." return due April 15 of this year, the IRS is accepting a Telephone Help: IRS representatives are available to under which non-residents of that state must pay a portion standard mileage rate of 28 cents per mile. Parking fees help with tax questions. If needed, call the IRS using the of state tax if such an individual earned income from a and tolls can be added when using the standard mileage source based in that state. toll-free number listed in a local telephone directory. If using actual expenses, information must be avail­ rate. Many states allow a credit in the amount an individual Send IRS Written Questions: Written questions able on all operating-related costs for the vehicle, includ­ regarding the tax returns can be sent directly to an IRS must pay the state if that person has already paid taxes in ing interest, insurance, taxes, licenses, maintenance. District Director. Include a social security number with another state. In this supplement are two charts for seamen to use if repairs, depreciation, gas, oil, tolls and parking. In either the letter. questions arise on residency and state tax issues. The first standard mileage rate or the actual cost method of is a list of phone numbers of state tax boards and offices determining car expenses, accurate records should be INFORMATION BY PHONE to call for more information (page 16). The second kept. The IRS recommends keeping a log book or diary The IRS is prepared to answer questions by phone. provides information on what each state considers to be listing all expenses related to travel. Only work-related Throujgh the agency's taxpayer information service, pub­ taxable income for residents and non-residents (page 18). expenses not reimbursed by an employer can be claimed. Deducting Work-Related Meals When Traveling: lications covering kw aspects of tax-filing can be ordered. The chart indicates that seven states do not require state The 'Tele-Tax" Service has recorded tax information taxes to be paid of its residents and two states limit state Workers in transportation are allowed a special rate on covering more than 140 topics. 1-800-829-4477 is the taxes to profits earned form investments but do not con­ the meal allowance of $30 per day. Otherwise the IRS standard meal allowance is generally $26. In some loca­ IRS's 24-hour automated 'Tele-Tax" system. When call­ sider wages subject to taxation. tions it is $34, and in Hawaii and Alaska it is computed ing from a touch tone phone, the "#" sign will repeat the differently. Travel expenses, including meals, can only topic and the will stop the message. To listen to a OVERSEAS? directory of topics after the introductory message Should a seaman find himself or herself overseas and be deducted if directly related to one's work and if they finishes, dial 323. seeking IRS forms or IRS assistance, U.S. embassies and have not been reimbursed from any other source. Limit on Itemized Deductions: Beginning in 1993, This telephone service is available for refund informa- consulates are equipped to provide some taxpayer-reitemized deductions may be limited for an individual tion from 7:00 a.m. until 11:30 p.m. (local time) when lated services. At a minimum, IRS forms are available at earning more than $108,450 of federal adjusted gross calling from a touch tone phone. Rotary dial phone users all U.S. embassies and consulates. The U.S. embassies income (or $54,225 if married and filing separately). can call the service between 8:00 a.m. and 4:15 p.m. and consulates located in the following cities can provide Keeping Records: Keep records of income, deduc­ (local time). IRS assistance: Bonn, Germany; Caracas, Venezuela; tions and credits shown on the tax return, as well as any London, England; Mexico City, Mexico; Nassau, worksheets used to figure them, until the statute of limita­ Bahamas; Ottawa, Canada; Paris, France; Riyadh, Saudi PREPARING A RETURN tions runs out for that return, usually 3 years from the date Arabia; Rome, Italy; Sao Paulo, Brazil; Sydney, Step I. Get all records together. the return was due or file^ or 2 years from the date the Australia; and Tokyo, Japan. Income Records. These include any Forms W-2, tax was paid, whichever is later. However, it is recom­ mended that all records be kept for about 6 years. W-2G and 1099. DEDUCTIONS, W-2'S AND Fast Refund: If a tax refund is expected for 1993, Itemized deductions and tax credits. OTHER INFORMATION . , instead of mailing the retum to the Internal Revenue Medical and dental payment records. Emptoyer W-2's: Employers are required to mail W-2 Service, it can be filed electronically. When filed Real estate and personal property tax receipts forms to employees by January 31. If an individual electronically, a refund will be received in about 3 weeks, Interest payments records for items such as a home believes he or she is missing W-2's, contact the employer. or in 2 weeks if it is deposited directly into a savings or For seamen who have ever used a union hall as a retum checking account. For a charge, many professional tax mortgage or home equity loan. address, check with the SIU port agent to determine if a retum preparers offer electronic filing in addition to their Records of payments for child care so an individual W-2 has been sent to that address. retum preparation services. If an individual prepared his could work. Seafarers Vacation Plan W-2's: If a Seafarer has or her own retum, a preparer or transmitter in their area Step 2. Get any forms, schedules or publications neces­ sary to assist in filing the retum. IRS Publication 17 en- received monies from the SIU Vacation Plan (SVP), he can file the retum electronically. For a list of who can file itled "Your Federal Income Tax for Use in Preparing or she should receive a W-2 from that fund. Seafarers who a tax retum electronically in any given area, call the IRS have received SVP monies but who have not received a toll-free number, 1 (800) 829-1040, and ask for the 1993 Returns" is the most comprehensive guide the W-2 from the plan should contact their union hall or call Electronic Filine Office agency has issued this year. Most IRS offices and Andy Marmo at the SVP office in Camp Springs, Md.: Dependent's Social Security Number: If an in­ many local banks, post offices and libraries have publi­ (301)899-0675. dividual claims an exemption for a dependent who is at cations designed to provide individuals with informaIncreased Deductions: The deduction for each ex­ least 1 year old by December 31, 1993, he must list the ic(n on correctly filirig tax returns. emption—for the individual, his or her spouse and de­ dependent's social security number on Form 1040 or 5^/* 3. Fill in the retum. pendents has increased to.$3,700 per person. Form 1040A. A social security number requirement ap­ Step 4. Check the retum to make sure it is correct. Standard Deduction Has Increased: The standard plies to all dependents (not just children) claimed on the Step 5. Sign and date the return. Form 1040 is not con­ deduction has increased for most people. Because of this increase, it may be to an individual's benefit to take the Continued on page 16 sidered a valid retum unless signed. A spouse must standard deduction this year even if that person has also sign if it is a joint return. F ri/'"'4 '••:••• I; ,• '- !.: :<^"r K't y .^-: •''' ~.,-'y' f _ ... ... . • -i^ '•:"> • ••Zy I•1: .^ • �•S ...,^ dAk^i pr] • .'; ••..V;>- .. •• • .. r;, '• [.•»V''S"r.,'; ;•• • . f''-" •".• .••;.' „x .V. : • •••V!r ; •• • i-vr'^'CiS- "i. , ••^. ;i';'v/ ,,; • • ' t..- :' 14 -i :^ - •'• -.- p-w - .•• • 'li- '. -». -i..-.,- ' "w 'V'- r — >•' — ^ •••,*(.'w^•-.•! •-'f' "••-•W>r''«-"5^.'V FEBRUARY 1994 SEAFARERS LOG FEBRUARY 1994 SEAFARERS LOG f ?4-«rwV-— with one child is $1,434. Families with 2 or more children may receive up tp $1,511. With a child bom in 1993, the family may qualify for an additional $388 credit and if the family paid for part of the premiums for a health insurance policy covering a child, an additional credit of $465 may be due. To apply for the earned income credit, a family must file using Form 1040 or I040A, but not I040EZ, and attach IRS Schedule EIC. Continuedfrom page 15 • •?.' • tax return who are at least 1 year old. Gift to Reduce the Public Debt: An individual may make a gift to reduce the public debt. To do so, enclose a separate check with the income tax return. Make it payable to "Bureau of the Public Debt." Do not add it to any tax owed. Change of Address: If an individual has changed his or her address from the one 1isted on that person's last tax return, IRS Form 8822 should be filled out REPORTED INCOME and filed with the agency. In addition to wages, salaries, tips, unemploy­ Education Savings Bond Program: All or part ment compensation, capital gains, dividend pay­ of the interest for certain U.S. savings bonds can be ments and other income listed on the federal tax excluded from income if one pays qualified higher return, the following kinds of income must be education expenses during the year he redeems the reported. bonds. Death of a Taxpayer: If a taxpayer died before • Jones Act settlements for lost wages. filing a required return for 1993, the taxpayer's • Amounts received in place of wages from acci­ dent and health plans (including sick pay and personal representative (and spouse, in the case of a disability pensions) if employer paid for the joint return) must file and sign the return for that policy. fierson. A personal representative can be an ex­ ecutor, administrator or anyone who is in charge of • Life insurance proceeds from a policy cashed in the taxpayer's property. if the proceeds are more than the premium paid. Rounding Off to Whole Dollars: Cents may be • Profits from corporations, partnerships, estates rounded off to the nearest whole dollar on the tax and trusts. return and schedules. To do so, raise amounts from 50 to 99 cents to the next dollar. For example, $1.39 • Endowments. • Original Issue Discount. becomes $I and $2.50 becomes $3. Unemployment Compensation: Unemployment • Distributions from SEPs and DECs. compensation (insurance) is fully taxable. By • Bartering income (fair-market value of goods January 31, 1994, an individual who has received or services received in return for services). unemployment compensation should receive a • Tier 2 and supplemental annuities under the Form I099-G showing the total unemployment Railroad Retirement Act. compensation paid during 1993. Use line 20 on the tax return to report unemployment compensation. • Lump-sum distributions. Earned Income Credit: To qualify for the • Gains from the sale or exchange (including barter) of real estate, securities, coins, gold, earned income credit, families must have an income silver, gems or other property (capital gains). of less than $23,050 and have at least one child living with them. The maximum credit for families » Accumulation distributions from trusts. :yi It '• • • li -^..' , • • • • Prizes and awards (contests, raffles, lottery and gambling winnings). Earned income from sources outside the United States. Director's fees. Fees received as an executor or administrator of an estate. ' Embezzled or other illegal income. • • Child support. Gifts, money or other property inherited or willed. Dividends on veterans' life insurance. Life insurance proceeds received because of a person's death. Arnounts received from insurance because of loss of the use of a home due to fire or other casualty to the extent the amounts were more than the cost of nonnal expenses while living in the home. Certain amounts received as a scholarship. • • • NON-REPORTED INCOME The following kinds of income do not need to be reported on the federal tax return:. • Benefits from government welfare programs. • Jones Act settlements for injuries, pain, suffer^ ing, medical costs. • Maintenance and Cure. • Workers' compensation benefits, insurance damages', etc. for injury or sickness. • Disability retirement payments (and other benefits) paid by the Veterans' Administration. • MAILING ADDRESS (address written inquiries to Taxpayer Information") ALABAMA ALASKA ARIZONA ARKANSAS CALIFORNIA COLORADO CONNECTICUT DELAWARE WASHINGTON, DC FLORIDA GEORGIA HAWAII IDAHO ILLINOIS INDIANA IOWA KANSAS KENTUCKY LOUISIANA MAINE MARYLAND MASSACHUSETTS MICHIGAN MINNESOTA MISSISSIPPI MISSOURI MONTANA NEBRASKA NEVADA NEW HAMPSHIRE NEW JERSEY NEW MEXICO NEW YORK NORTH CAROLINA NORTH DAKOTA OHIO OKLAHOMA OREGON PENNSYLVANIA RHODE ISLAND SOUTH CAROLINA SOUTH DAKOTA TENNESSEE TEXAS UTAH VERMONT VIRGINIA WASHINGTON 'VIRGINIA V^^ WISCONSIN wi WYOMING r: :rv. I -.o I • •( /•• Department of Revenue, Income Tax Division, P.O. Box 327490, Montgomery, AL 36132-7490 Department of Revenue, Juneau, AK 99811-0400 Department of Revenue, P.O. Box 29086, Phoenix, AZ 85038-9086 Tax Administrator, P.O. Box 3628, Little Rock, AR 72203-3628 • Taxpayer Information, P.O. Box 942840, Sacramento, CA 94240-0040 Taxpayer's Assistance, 1375 Sherman St., Denver, CO 80261 Taxpayer's Assistance, 92 Farmington Ave., Hartford, CT 06105 Division of Revenue, State Office BIdg., Ninth & French Streets, Wilmington, DE 19801 Department of Finance and Revenue, One Judiciary Sq., 441 4th St. NW, Washington, DC 20001 Department of Revenue, 5050 W. Tennessee St., Tallahassee, FL 32399-0135 Department of Revenue, 322 Plaza Level, Floyd Bldg., West Tower, Atlanta, OA 30334 Department of Taxation, P.O. Box 3559, Honolulu, HI 96811-3559 Tax Commission, P.O. Box 56, Boise, ID 83756-0201 Taxpayer Information Division, 101 West Jefferson, P.O. Box 19044, Springfield, IL 62794-9044 Taxpayer Information, 100 N. Senate Ave., Rm. 209, Indianapolis, IN 46204-2253 Taxpayer Services, Hoover State Office Bldg., Des Moines, lA 50319-0120 Department of Revenue, P.O. Box 12001, Topeka, KS 66612-2001 Revenue Cabinet, Capitol Annex Bldg., Frankfort, KY 40620 Taxpayer Information, P.O. Box 3440, Baton Rouge, LA 70823-0001 Bureau of Taxation, State Office Bldg, August, ME 04332-1067 Comptroller of the Treasury, Income Tax Division, Annapolis, MD 21411-0001 Massachusetts Dept. of Revenue, P.O. Box 7071, Boston, MA 02204 Taxpayer Information, Treasury Bldg., 430 Allegan St., Lansing, MI 48922 Deptartment of Revenue, Taxpayer Information, St. Paul, MN 55146-4450 Tax Commission, P.O. Box 23050, Jackson, MS 39225-3050 Department of Revenue, Truman State Office Bldg, Room 330, Jefferson City, MO 65105 Department of Revenue, P.O. Box 5805, Helena, MT 59604 Taxpayer's Assistance, 301 Centeimial Mall South, Lincoln, NE 68509-4818 Department ofTaxation, Capital Complex, Carson City, NV 89710-0003 Taxpayers Assistance Office, 61 South Spring SL, P.O. Box 637, Concord, NH 03302-0637 Taxpayer Information, 50 Barrack St., CN 269, Trenton, NJ 08646-0269 Department ofTaxation & Revenue, P.O. Box 630, Santa Fe, NM 87509-0630 Taxpayer's Assistance, W.A. Harriman Campus, Albany, NY 12227 Department of Revenue, Revenue Bldg., 501 N. Wilmington St, Raleigh, NC 27640 Taxpayer Information, State Capitol, Bismarck, ND 58505-0599 Department ofTaxation, 1880 E. Dublin-Granville Rd., Columbus, OH 43229 Taxpayer Information, 2501 Lincoln Blvd., Oklahoma City, OK 73194-0009 Revenue Bldg., 955 Center St, NE, First Floor, Room 135, Salem, OR 97310 Taxpayer's Assistance, Department 280504, Harrisburg, PA 17128-0504 Taxpayer's Assistance, One Capitol Hill, Providence, RI 02908-5801 Research and Review, P.O. Box 125, Columbia, SC 29214 Department of Revenue, 700 Governors Drive, Pierre, SD 57501-2291 Department of Revenue, 807 Andrew Jackson State Office Bldg., Nashville, TN 37242-0482 Taxpayer Assistance, Capital Station, Austin, TX 78774 Taxpayer Assistance, 160 East Third South, Salt Lake City, UT 84134-0200 Department of Taxes, 109 State SL, Montpelier, VT 05609-1401 Taxpayer Information, P.O. Box 1115, Richmond, VA 23208-1115 Taxpayer Information & Education, P.O. Box 47476, Olympia, WA 98504 Taxpayer Services, P.O. Box 3784, Charleston, WV 25337-3784 Department of Revenue, 4638 University Ave., Madison, WI 53705 Department of Revenue, 122 West 25th Street, Cheyenne, WY 82002 directly only if the request for an extension is denied. To be able to extend the period of time in which one can file his or her tax return, that individual must correctly fill out Form 4868 and pay all of the tax monies due (as noted on line 6 of the form). If the filing of Form 4868 and the subsequent four-month extension to file does not provide the individual with enough time, he or she can then file Form 2688, known as "Application for Additional Extension of Time to File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return." Another option open to the person seeking more time in which to file is to write a letter to the IRS stating the reason the extension is neces­ sary and mailing it to the correct IRS location (see section below: "Where to File"). An individual seeking an extension is advised by the IRS to file Form 4868 before filing Form 2688. (The form below is a duplication of the correct form and may be used by the reader to file an extension.) To obtain another copy of Form 4868, an in­ dividual may call the agency's toll free number which is dedicated to tax form requests. That num­ FILING AN EXTENSION IRS Form 4868 can be used to ask for a fourmonth extension to file IRS Form I040A or Form 1040. An individual requesting an extension is under no obligation to explain why the additional time is needed. Filing of the form gives an individual until August 15,1994 to file his or her 1993 federal tax return. The IRS will contact the individual ber is I (800) 829-3676. Also, Form 4868 is avail­ able from all main IRS branch officbs. If a Seafarer finds himself or herself overseas, he or she can obtain the form from any U.S. embassy or consulate. It is important to bear in mind that the filing of Form 4868 requesting an extension does not get one off the hook from having to pay any taxes due. Form 4868, when sent in, must be accompanied by all tax monies due the U.S. government from the individual filing the extension. The deadline for filing form 4868 and the taxes due is April 15. DEADLINE for filing taxes: April 15 STANDARD DEDUCTION This is the standard deduction chart for most people. It should not be used if taxpayer is 65 or older or blind or if a dependent. Filing Status Standard Deduction Single ...... . ... . . $3,700 Married filing joint return or Qualifying widow(er) with dependent children . . . $6,200 Married filing separate return ...... . Head of household . . . . . $5,450 $3,100 Seafarers are welcome to use the below form in case they need to file for an extension for their income taxes. The form is an exact duplication and will be honored by the Internal Revenue Sen/ice. Form 4868 Application for Automatic Extension of Time To File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return Department of the Treasury Intemal Revenue Service Please Type or Print LOCAL NUMBER (205) 242-2677 (907) 465-2320 (602) 255-3381 Phoenix (602)628-8421 Tucson (501)682-1100 (916)854-6500 (303)534-1209 (203)566-8520 (302)557-3310 (202)727-6104 (904)488-6800 (404)656-4071 (808)587-6515 (208)334-3660 (217)782-3336 (317)232-2240 (515)281-3114 (913)2964)222 (502)564-4580 (504)925-4611 (207)626-8475 (410)974-3981 (617)727-4545 (517)373-2873 (612)296-3781 (601)359-1141 (314)751-7191 (406)444-2837 (402)471-5729 (702)687-4820 (603)271-2191 (609)588-2200 (505)827-0700 (518)438-8581 (919)733-4147 (701)224-3450 (614)895-6260 (405)521-3146 (503)378-4988 (717)787-8094 (401)277-2905 (803)737-5000 (605)773-3311 (615)741-3665 (800)252-5555 (801)530-4848 (802)828-2865 (804)367-8031 (206)753-5525 (304)558-3333 (608)266-2486 (307)777-7%2 TOLL FREE NUMBER (800)352-4090 (800)882-9275 (800)852-5711 (800)382-9463 (800)292-7826 (800)226-3411 (800)338-2389 (800)222-3229 (800)972-7660 (800)732-8866 (800)382-4646 (800)367-3388 (800)638-2937 (800)392-6089 (800)487-7000 (800)652-9094 (800)332-6103 (800)323-4400 Tax returns should be mailed to the Internal Revenue Service Center desig­ nated for the area in which the taxpayer lives. These addresses are listed below. No street address is needed for the IRS. IRS * Austin, TX 73301 Alaska, Arizona, California (counties of Alpine, . . . Amador, Butte, Calave:as, Colusa, Contra C<Kta, Del Norte, El Dorado, Glenn, Humboldt, Lake Lassen, Marin, Mendocino, Modoc, Napa, Nevada, Placer, Plumas, Sacramento, San Joaquin, Shasta, Sierra, Sisldyou, Tehama, Trinity, Yolo and Yuba), Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nebraska, Neva^ North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota, Utah, Washington, Wyoming IRS Ogden,UT 84201 California (all other counties) ............. Hawaii Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, ..... North Carolina, Tennessee American Samoa IRS Fresno, CA 93888 (800)763-1295 Last name Spouse's social security number All A.P.O. or F.P.O. addresses . • • . IRS Memphis, TN 37501 IRS Phildelphia, PA 19255 Commissioner of Revenue and Taxation 855 West Marine Dr. Agana,GU 96910 IRS Philadelphia, PA 19255 • • ., *•' • • . • ' - j' ' ' • i ••4 •' , 1 * Total tax liability for 1993. This Is the amount you expect to enter on Form 1040EZ, line 8; Form 1040A, line 27; or Form 1040, line 53. If you expect this amount to be zero, enter -0-. . Caution: You MUST enter an amount on line 1 or your extension will be denied. You can estimate this amount, but tie as exact as you can with the information you have. If we later find that your estimate was not reasonable, the extension will tie null and void. i;3f' Gift or Generation-Skipping Transfer (GST) Tax—Complete this part If you expect to owe either tax. If you or your spouse plan to file a gift tax return (Form 709 or 709-A) for 1993, generally due by April 15, 1994, see the instructions and check here ... • • Your signature Date • Yourself • • Spouse • • . Spouse's signature. If filing jointly Date Date Preparer's signature (other than taxpayer) If you want correspondence regarding this extension to be sent to you at an address other than that shown above or to an agent acting for you, please enter the name of the agent and/or the address where it should t)e sent. Name Please Type or Print Number and street (Include suite, room, or apt. no.) or P.O. t)ox number If mail Is not delivered to street address City, town or post office, state, and ZIP code For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see separate instructions. Cat. No. 13141W v". i• ,3- Under penalties of perjury, 1 declare that I have examined this form, Including accompanying schedules and statements, and to the best of my knowledge and belief. It Is true, correct, and complete; and. If prepared by someone other than the taxpayer, that I am authorized to prepare this form. IRS Philadelphia, PA 19255 ' <li, -• 'yjt •A Signature and Verification .">v . -. • b Enter the amount of gift or GST tax your spouse is paying with this form y "* ' • Home address (number, street, and apt. no. or rural route). If you have a P.O. box, see the instructions. 5a Enter the amount of gift or GST tax you are paying with this form . . V.I. Bureau of Intemal Revenue Charlotte Amalie Lockharts Garden No. lA SL Thomas, VI 00802 Virgin Islands .... ... ........ \ •- y•• :• yy Individual Income Tax—You must complete this part. 4 •• " "••]• • ' •ft.-' -.''.—Truv.«.-c?.;u,.i. If a joint retum, spouse's first name and Initial Caution: Do not include Income tax on lines 5a and 5b. See the instructions. I . .a Your social security number BALANCE DUE. Subtract line 2 from line 1. If line 2 is more than line 1, enter -0-. For details on how to pay, including what to write on your payment, see the instructions • Puerto Rico (or if excluding income under section 933), Virgin Islands, nonpermanent residents of Guam (800)982-8297 Last name IRS Delaware, District of Columbia, Maryland, . Philadelphia, PA 19255 Pennsylvania, Virginia Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, West Virginia . ... ; IRS Cincinnati, OH 45999 Guam (permanent residents) ... . (800)342-1003 (800)252-5555 (800)662-4335 Your first name and Initial Total payments for 1993. This is the amount you expect to enter on Form 1040EZ, line 7; Form 1040A, line 28d: or Form 1040, line 60 . . . ..... (800)225-5829 (800)222-9965 (800)224-3450 (800)282-1780 (800)522-8165 (800)356-4222 )93 >• This is not an extension of time to pay your tax. >• See separate instructions. .IRS Kansas City, MO 64999 Kansas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas ...... . . .. -. •••• 1 request an automatic 4-month extension of time to August 15,1994, to file Form 1 d40EZ, Form 1040A, or Form 1040 for the calendar year 1993 or to ,19 , for the fiscal tax year ending , 19 . For individuals living Use this address: in the following states Florida, Georgia, South Carolina . . , , ... . .,. . ... . IRS Atlanta, GA 39901 IRS New Jersey, New York, (New York City and counties . . ' HoltsviUe, NY 00501 of Nassau, Rockland, Suffolk and Westchester) New York (all other counties), Connecticut, Maine, ... ' IRS Massachussetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont ' Andover,MA 05501 Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, Wisconsin . . . . . . 0MB No. 1545-0188 City, town or post office, state, and ZIP code WHERE TO FILE DIRECTORY FOR ADDITIONAL STATE TAX INFORMATION STATE •• Form 4868 (1993) �.1^ 7^ FEBRUARY im SaiFililEilSIOi; TAXABLE INCOME BY STATE STATE RESIDENT NON-RESIDENT STATE RESIDENT NON-RESIDENT Alabama Subject to state income tax on entire net income. Taxable ore income from property owned or business transacted in Alabama. Michigan Subject to tax on federal ad­ justed gross income allocable to sources within Michigan. Subject to tax on taxable in­ come allocable to sources within Michigan. Alaska No state tax. No state tax. Minnesota Arizona Subject to tax on entire net in­ come. A credit is only allowed for taxes paid to the other state on income derived from sour­ ces within that state which are taxable under that state's laws without regard to the residence egardtc :ile of the recipient. or domicile No credit is allowed if the other state allows residents of Arizona a credit against taxes imposed by that state for taxes paid to Anzona. Subject to tax on net income derived from sources within Arizona. Subject to tax on federal ad­ justed gross income with cer­ tain modifications. Subject to tax on federal ad­ justed gross income al­ locable to sources within Minnesota. 1 Subject to tax on Missouri tax­ able income. Subject to tax on income derived from sources within Missouri. Mississippi Subject to tax on entire net in­ come. Subject to tax on entire net income from sources within Mississippi. Montana Subject to tax on net income derived from sources within Montana. Subject to state income tax on entire net income. Subject to state income tax on all net income from sources within the state such as all property owned, and from every business, trade or oc­ cupation earned on in Arkan­ sas. Subject to tax on federal ad­ justed gross income with cer­ tain modifications. Credit for taxes paid to other states is allowe Nebraska Subject to tax on federal ad­ justed gross income with cer­ tain modifications. Subject to tax on federal ad­ justed gross income derived from sources within Nebras­ ka. Nevada No state tax. No state tax. New Hampshire Subject to tax on interest and dividends over $1,200. Arkansas California Subject to state income tax on entire taxable income. ^i^souri Subject to state income tax on all taxable income derived from sources within the state. Colorado Subject to state income taxa­ tion on federal adjusted gross income with certain modifica­ tions. Subject to state income tax on federal adjusted gross in­ come attributable to rources within Colorado. New Jersey Subject to state tax based on federal adjusted gross income with certain modifications. Subject to state income tax on Connecticut taxable in­ come derived from or con­ nected with sources within Connecticut. Subject to tax on certain specified categories of New Jersey gross income from New/Je Jersey sources. " Connecticut Subject to tax on entire New Jersey gross income and credit is allowed illo • for - tax paid to another state on income sub­ ject to New Jersey income tax. New Mexico Subject to tax on net income denved from within New Mexico. Subject to state income taxa­ tion on federal adjusted gross income with certain modifica­ tions. Subject to state income tax on federal adjusted gross in­ come attributable to sources within Delaware. Subject to tax on federal tax­ able income with certain modification and with the pos­ sibility of a credit for taxes paid to another state. New York District of Columbia Subject to D.C. income tax on entire net income. Not subject to the income tax. Subject to tax on federal ad­ justed gross income with cer­ tain modifications. Subject to tax on federal ad­ justs gross income derived from sources within New York. Florida No state tax. No state tax. North Carolina Georgia Subject to tax on federal ad­ justed gross income less cer­ tain items. Subject to tax on net taxable income derived from certain ^ecified activities within Georgia. Subject to tax on net income with the possibility of a tax credit for taxes paid to another state. Subject to tax on net income derived from sources within North Carolina. North Dakota Subject to tax on entire income and a credit is allowed for taxes paid to another state which is paid on income derived from sources outside the state. Subject to tax on income derived from sources within Hawaii, with the possibility of a credit for taxes paid to other governments, outside the state. Subject to tax on federal tax­ able income with certain modifications. Subject to tax on net income from sources within North Dakota. Ohio Subject to tax on federal ad­ just^ gross income with cer­ tain mi^fications. Subject to tax on adjusted gross income derived from sources within Ohio. Oklahoma Subject to tax on the federal adjusted gross income with certain modifications. Subject to tax on federal ad­ just^ gross income derived from sources within Ok­ lahoma. Oregon Subject to tax on federal tax­ able income with certain modifications and credit against Oregon income taxes for taxes imposed by another state. Subject to tax on federal tax­ able income derived from sources within Oregon. Pennsylvania Subject to tax on entire income with a credit for taxes paid to another state on income also subject to tax in Pennsylvania. Subject to tax on income from sources within Pen­ nsylvania. Rhode Island Subject to tax on federal ad­ justed gross income with cer­ tain mi^fications. Subject to tax on taxable in­ come derived from sources within Rhode Island. South Carolina Subject to tax on entire net in­ come. Subject to tax on taxable in­ come derived from sources within South Carolina. South Dakota No state tax. No state tax. Tennessee Subject to tax on dividends from stock and interest on bonds. Texas No state tax. No state tax. Utah Subject to tax on federal tax­ able income with certain modifications. Subject to tax on taxable in­ come derived from sources within Utah. Vermont Subject to tax on federal ad­ justed gross income with a credit for income taxes paid to another state or territory upon income derived from sources within that state or territory. Subject to tax on federal ad­ justed gross income derived from sources within Ver­ mont Virginia Subject to tax on federal ad­ justed gross income with cer­ tain modifications. Subject to tax on taxable in­ come derived from sources within the state. Washington No state tax. No state tax. West Virginia Subject to taxable income as defined in terms of federal adjusted gross income with modifications. Subject to tax on taxable in­ come derived from sources within West Virginia. Wisconsin Subject to tax on federal ad­ justed gross income with cer­ tain modifications. Subject to tax on taxable in­ come derived from sources within Wisconsin. Wyoming No state tax. No state tax. Delaware Hawaii Subject to tax on federal tax­ able income with a credit for income taxes paid to another state or territoty. Subject to tax on federal tax­ able income attributable to certain sources within Idaho. Illinois Subject to tax on federal ad­ justed gross income with cer­ tain modifications. Subject to tax on all income attributable to certain ac­ tivities within Illinois. Indiana Subject to tax on federal ad­ justed gross income with cer­ tain mi^fications and with the possibility of a credit for state taxes paid in another state. Subject to tax on federal ad­ just^ gross income derived from sources within Indiana with the possibility of a credit for state taxes paid in another state. Subject to tax on federal ad­ justed gross income with modifications and with the possibility of a credit against Iowa tax for taxes paid to another state on income sub­ ject to tax in Iowa. Subject to tax on federal ad­ justed gross income derived from sources within Iowa, with the possibility of a credit against Iowa tax for taxes paid to another state or foreign county on income subject to tax in Iowa. Kansas Subject to tax on federal ad­ justed gross income with cer­ tain mraifications. Subject to tax on that portion of federal adjusted gross in­ come derived from sources within Kansas. Kentucky Subject to tax on federal ad­ justed gross income with cer­ tain m^fications. Subject to tax on federal ad­ justed gross income derived from sources within Ken-^ tucky. Louisiana Subject to tax on all net income which is defined generally as gross income of whatever land minus the deductions allowed. Subject to tax on net income derived from sources within Louisiana. Maine Subject to tax on taxable in­ come with the possibility of a reduction of taxes for taxes paid to another jurisdiction. Subject to tax on the portion of federal adjusted gross in­ come derived from sources within Maine with the pos­ sibility of a reduction in taxes for taxes paid to another jurisdiction. Idaho Iowa. Maryland Subject to tax oh federal ad­ justed gross income with cer­ tain mi^ifications. Subject to tax on the portion of federal adjusted gross in­ come derived from sources within Maryland. Massachusetts Subject to a tax on federal ad­ justed gross income. A credit for taxes paid to other states is allowed. Subject to tax on the portidn of fee federal adjusted gross in­ come derived from sources within Massachusetts. SOURCE: Department of Defense, Office of the Secretary of Defense, Federal Voting Assistance Program; Voting Assistance Guide 1993-1994; Appendix G. State Income Tax Liability. �FEBRUARY 1994 SEAFARERS LOG 17 ''P- ; • Pt\ v->i> •: rpn-: / Sca^^snen. (^^rtcti ^IO*K 'P<xll IRuier, lo^ctAUAc^, ptcdcf, <xnd cAcCdie^ ^axeOzn eutd '7ci<^<'tut'M, mi'APP. A '^pr- ^sr:;,j&:::i 27H'S^ "TH^c^e (net ^cd cvt^ l^e^iCiUt ut (^^<t(M, /f^xaut at f 9^t. On <t recent cUdct tot^e "i^^cleidel/iAcci ^aii, l^eredct coedtd a dredd ^•uun ^er natCae countnxf.. Another peek into the Seafarers LOG family album shows us some happy moments in the lives of SlU members, in­ cluding a wedding, vacations and visits to various union halls with members of the family. As always, the LOG welcomes photographs from Seafarers and their families and will publish them on a periodic basis. "Terra, S(*cct4 eoad ^ccdt ^OAC nautiAA (xld cotten u^e (odt dau^ Aer cn tAe /fn^dt / 993 AOt^. "i^ere dAe id at ete^ ntont^ in a (^^rcdt(n.ad picture u^Ct^ ^ier fi.areHtd Sfi^neer and 'JaudA^a S(Hct^. ^ooik /in^la 1R.o6ertd<xn cd c^rate^ut to t^e STTi ^o-r hel^Unt^ lier and ^er dau<^ter, feddtca, ^nt^M ntancf o^ t^ecr <^oald. /fnt^ta >iacld out £>/ t^e fi.ort o^ Itor^^. (^4tejf ^oo/^ Aucd Sicodat, ^cd cot^e, ^amten ^ecciia, and daco^Ater, T^auCette (^ataicna, en^ocf t^ecr ^irdt trcfr to T^cdnecf "Td^orid near Orlando, 'pCa. • iw.. • v..,,.-V,V;-/••>••• . ^SixTv. w XN iki.Li i- V, /iitcdon "PtidUfrd and THic^aet ^lcO(nad coere ntarried diu^udt 3 in "San^^, /4(derta, (panada. (net aboard t^c SS Tnde^iendence ad creauttent^erd in 1992. /fiiidon iaild in tAe ^tecuard de/iart(nent; THicAael id an/4.^. Sto^/tin<^ Ccf t^e S9"l{ o^^iee in "Dania. "pia. are (^ront (e^t) 'Ke(un. tpre(^ and T^atricdi df(uare^—t^e -lond a/ rpie(^ dflaare^ UA4O Jaitd ad a Ty7}(/f(P aboard t^e Seali^t ^^ina Sea. "THi^uet IRo^led 6rin^d ttid cAildren (uitA Aim. to tAe S97d AaCC in San puan. \r ,;. : • "' ' it-'' \-" j|7 >: • i"--- •1 ••.-• • �18 FE8RUARY1994 SEAFARERS LOG Cleveland's Crew Readies for Pirate Threats boarding," he says. "We also con­ duct daylight transits of those high-risk areas when possible. We secure and limit access to the Keeping U.S. military bases deck house . . . and we keep the stocked with food and other stem and main deck area as wellnecessary supplies is the job of lighted as possible." the SlU-crewed USNS Cleveland. Unlicensed crewmembers also The Military Sealift Com­ receive thorough weapons train­ mand (MSC)-contracted vessel ing in Diego Garcia, for use when travels to U.S. Navy bases in Sing­ they are on watch aboard ship. apore, Guam and Diego Garcia - • *• -V' vif; Caudle emphasizes that he and on an average of every three I ^ weeks. But voyages to these bases the rest of the crew recognize the potential danger, "But we don't do have a drawback as the Cleveland must sail through lose any sleep over it. We have a responsibility to be prepared, and pirate-infested waters. Although morale aboard the we do everything we can to min­ Cleveland is good, the crewmem- imize risk." Preparing the tables for a meal Is Indeed, Oiler Marc Ponia- AB Shawn Orr takes the ship's helm as Capt. Ricky Caudle observes. Steward/Utility Frank Casby Jr. bers are quite serious about taking steps to combat the growing prob­ towski sums up the positive at­ lem of piracy in the Far East. titude which permeates the ves­ Despite a steady increase in at­ sel: "Being on the water is a way tacks from 1991 through 1993— of life and a livelihood that I've :::::::: particularly in the Hong enjoyed from the first minute we iifllf ill; IIMIl Kong-Luzon-Hainan areas and pulled away from the dock." He started with the SIU in 1991, the waters just outside Sing­ a/A//v apore—the Cleveland has sailed working aboard the passenger without incident, thanks in part to steamboat, the Delta Queen. its extensive safeguarding The Cleveland carries basic measures. stores such as frozen and Captain Ricky Caudle notes refrigerated cargo, spare parts for that a piracy watch is maintained machinery, fuel and "other during 12 of the voyage's 26 general cargo which could in­ days, when the vessel is in a rela­ clude anything and everything," tively high-risk area. "We in­ said a spokesperson for MSC. crease our speed to about 21 knots The MSC provided the photos OS Wescott Reiss checks some to make it more difficult for accompanying this article. of the tanks on deck. Working In the engine room Is Oiler Marc Ponlatowski. MSC Ship Handles Navy Supply Runs USRS Wilkes Crew Helps Make Pres. Adams' Mission a 'Complete Success' Holiday Meal Bosun Jerry Hill and the SIU deck crew of the USNS Wilkes were praised for the efficient and professional way they jperformed their jobs during a recent sur­ Seafarers aboard the President Adams vey conducted aboard the research vessel. spent Christmas day at sea between San Naval Oceanographic Office Chief Pedro, Calif, and Hong Kong, enjoying a Scientist Charles Robinson, a veteran of special holiday meal prepared by the gal­ 15 years of current meter operations, ley gang. stated, "In all my experience of planting In a letter detailing the festivities. As­ current meters over the years, Wilkes' sistant Cook Peter Lup wrote that the seamen are the best I have had the pleasure food was "possibly the best and fanciest to work with. I look forward to returning of any U.S.-flag containership." The master craftsmen behind the to this fine ship." cullnarary festivities aboard the Presi­ The Adams galley gang consists of Operating from its overseas home of Chief Steward Alan HoUinger, Chief dent Adams are (from left) Chief Steward Sasebo, Japan, the Wilkes sailed for the Cook Bernhard Rombach and Assis­ Alan Hollinger, Assistant Cook Peter Lup Yellow Sea on November 15 to study and Chief Cook Bernhard Rombach. tant Cook Lup. ocean currents. Chief Mate Fred Assistant Cook Lup noted that the "The actual layout and design of the Smallwood, who provided the Seafarers food took a week," Hollinger told a crew of the President Adams is like a big LOG with the photographs for this stoty, noted that because the Yellow Sea is quite OS Junior Serene assembles current reporter from the Seafarers LOG, "but family. "Everyone works exceptionally shallow, a study of its currents can provide meter elements before they are lowered the preparations—planning the menu well with one another, which gives the and ordering the stores—took place vessel a sense of camaraderie," he said. valuable oceanographic data for study and into the sea. before leaving port." analysis. All three steward department mem­ Between Korea and China, crewmem­ specifically selected intervals. A small The appetizer table consisted of bers are Seafarers and former members bers placed a total of 10 current meters in propeller measures velocity while direc­ everything from deviled eggs to stuffed of the Marine Cooks and Stewards various locations selected by the scientists. tion is referenced by an on-board magnetic New Zealand mussels with tomato (MC&S), having joined before that Current meters, which are battery compass in each meter. Some arrays con­ mousse and salami coronets. Hollinger union riierged with the Atlantic, Gulf, powered, are programmed to sample the tain as many as eight current meters at also prepared a special platter of sn^oked Lakes and Inland Waters District velocity and direction of the current at various depths. Norwegian salmon surrounded by cream (AGLIWD) of the SIU in 1978. Smallwood recalled that planting the cheese, onions and cucumbers. Lobster Lup joined the MC&S in 1968 in the current arrays was somewhat dangerous bisque and Caesar salad were served port of San Francisco and has upgraded and required excellent seamanship by the at the Lundeberg School in 1982 and crewmembers. "The current meter arrays before the main course, which consisted 1983. Hollinger joined the MC&S in of the traditional turkey, ham and beef. were long and cumbersome, arid the last 1976, also in the port of San Francisco item to enter the water on each planting run Apple, pumpkin and mincemeat pies as and completed the steward recertificawas the anchor—generally a 3,000 pound well as a krans cake (a Norwegian ring tion course at Piney Point in 1987. Recer­ section of ship anchor chain," he wrote in cake) were served as dessert. "We really put a lot of work into the tified Steward Bernhard Rombach sails his account of the recent mission. He noted out of the port of San Francisco. that due to the skill and attention to detail feast, but that is not unusual for this team. Seafarers crew the steward department of the deck department, led by Bosun Hill, We work hard on every meal that we on the American President Lines' con­ serve," recalled Hollinger. "We were the mission w^ a complete success. tainership, while members of the Sailors' The Wilkes, owned by the Military commended by everyone, and that really Union of the Pacific man the deck depart­ Sealift Command (MSC) and operated by makes a meal for us, especially when we ment. The Marine Firemen's Union Bay Ship Management, is sponsored by work this hard." provides engine department personnel. the Naval Oceanographic Office and He noted that the holiday repast The President Adams sails from the operates / throughout the Pacific Ocean, served 21 crewmembers in all, but be­ port of Oakland, Calf, to Yokohama and Data collected by the oceanographers aid cause the food was served continuously Kobe, Japan; Kaohsiung, Taiwan; and the agency in its quest for greater under­ throughout the day, there was not miich Hong Kong before returning to San Assembling the meter array are OS Rudy standing of oceans and their charac­ leftover. Pedro, Calif, and Oakland. teristics. Alcala (left) and Bosun Jerry Hill. A ^Stunner* • /• •;../ • 'J s,<aSws;- its;.'.-; �SEAFAKERS LOG FEBRUARY 1994 Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea DECEMBER 16,1993 —JANUARY 15,1994 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Port New York Philadelphia Baltimore Norfolk Mobile New Orleans JsKksonville San Francisco 2^? Wilmington 24 Seattle Puerto Rico Honolulu Houston St Louis Piney Point Algonac Totals Port New York Philadelphia Baltimore Norfolk Mobile New Orleans Jacksonville San Francisco Wilmington Seattle Puerto Rico Honolulu Houston St. Louis Piney Point Algonac Totals Port 20 New York 2 Philadelphia Baltimore 6 Norfolk 7 Mobile New Orleans 11 Jacksonville 13 San Francisco 42 Wilmington 11 20 Seattle 3 Puerto Rico 7 Honolulu 5 Houston 3 St. Louis 0 Piney Point 0 Algonac 154 Totals Port 11 New York Philadelphia 0 0 Baltimore 2 Norfolk 1 Mobile 7 New Orleans 3 Jacksonville 14 San Francisco 6 Wilmington 9 Seattle 3 Puerto Rico 3 Honolulu 3 Houston 0 Louis St 0 Piney Point 0 Algonac 62 Totals Totals All Departments 584 DECK DEPARTMENT 1 35 21 10 30 - 44 . 0 397 1 •4 8 12 22 23 28 ^ 27 '1 0 2 2 1 7 5 0 0 2 1 0 ym 2 ?0;!? 10 0 VJ.\ 6 6 5 0 7 8 ^ 3 5 M. 13 30 • - g 0 14 9 33 32 '- V i;27' 25 mi:: 17 0 290 1 54 10 1 5 6 9 6 12 MM 5 0 10 7 V:l-- m:: 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 6 0 :M 0 85 0 14 46 2 5 13 11 9 12 27 19 17 11 53 9 2 23 2 261 14 1 3 7 0 6 2 2 ... ,• 1 4 1 57 780 192 n 0 0 0 105 ^ 399 569 29 -•:i •'[rr ^ 18 5 2 9 10 20 11 12 21 22 24 .78 19 ,9 6 36 0 1 25 24 12 14 ^2" 11 0 0 158 279 /:• 'i>r-^- / J:'. 0 33 0 0 0 128 35 5 6 16 0 15 9 9 12 9 10 125 10 0 0 0 261 1.071 1306 433 m 28 It; 11 11 10 ® V.-"':; 'fc 0 1 0 1 2 4 2 0 3 14 1 0 73 3 9 36 23 32 23 32 30 24 12 108 26 5 22 3 461 18 1 2 10 2 17 v"\'- , 118 • 2 0 9 4 0 16 1 15 •^22:;: STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 13 13 1 0 0 0 0 1 5 1 9 3 3 1 1 6 7 0 3 3 m: 1 5 10 8 0 8 - 29 5 0 1 13 0 5 5 14 1 0 1 5 2 0 5 3 J'S: m 5 9 0 0 1 1 0 0 v: 3 I-'1 0 0 0 62 4 62 112 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 5 28 •• 1 0 0 1 0 2 0 5 8 1 1 12 2 1 7 3 1 •? • 4 . 15 0 19 7 ;:;3v '5-,*: .5 J 2 17 5 1 6 3 7 13 1 9 :i • 0 19 0 0 '• 0 163 36 5 6 10 16 9 0 0 0 85 ill 10 7 •• "Reeistered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the •, .V' Jl! - V •' ,Vi' 3 March & April 1994 Membership Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, inland Waters ••REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C Trip Reliefs 19 .• < Piney Point Monday, March 7, April 4 New York Tuesday: March 8, April 5 Philadelphia Wednesday: March 9, April 6 Baltimore Uiursday: March 10, April 7 Norfolk i Thursday: March 10, April 7 iiilil Jacksonville Thursday: March 10, April 7 Algonac Friday: March 11, April 8 Houston Monday: March 14, April 11 New Orleans Tuesday: March 15, April 12 — _— Mobile , , Wednesday: March 16, April 13 San Francisco Thursday: March 17, April 14 • Wilmington Monday: March 21, April 18 Seattle Friday: March 25, April 22 , San Juan ^ Thursday: March 10, April 7 St Louis Friday: March 18, April 15 | Honolulu \ " - '' Friday: March 18, April 15 , . DulUth • Wednesday: March 16, April 13 , Jersey City Wednesday: March 23, April 20 New Bedford Tuesday: March 22, April 19 V ^ •-.•C • > . '' V ill: Each port's me^ngstarte at 10:30 ajn. -r- Personals ROBERT DANIEL SMITH Please contact your daughter. Sunny Smith, at P.O. Box 95, Augres, MI 48703. DONALD EVANS Please contact Rebecca Forsythe (regarding Maxine Forsythe) at 1053 E. Spruce Street, Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783. .'Wi Correction: The Real Bosun Kingsley " • •• •'•? A photograph taken aboard the Sea-Land Explorer which ran on page 21 of the November 1993 issue of the Seafarers LOG misidentified the ship's bosun, Jack Kingsley. Brother Kingsley has been an SlU member since 1962. Aboard the Sea-LandExp/orer are (from left) AB George Fries, Patrolman Robert Scrivens, Bosun Jack Kingsley, AB G. Mlla^ Jr. and AB Anthony Sabatini. �ssssy:';:4 :• ^ ^ FE0RUARY1994 20 SEAFARERS LOG Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes Seafarers International Union Directory DECEMBER 16,1995 —^ JANUARY 15,1994 Michael Sacco CL—Company/Lakes L—Lakes NP—Non Priority President •TOTAL REGISTERED TOTAL SHIPPED **REGISTERED ON BEACH John Fay All Groups All Groups All Groups Secretary-Treasurer Class CL Class L Class NP Class CL Class L Class NP Class CL ClasSL Class NP Joseph Sacco Executive Vice President DECK DEPARTMENT Port Augustin Tellez 6 25 0 0 15 5 6 . . 33 Vice President Collective Bargaining 0 Algonac ENGINE DEPARTMENT George McCartnCT Port Vice President West Go oast , .5 0 6 1 4 0 6 Algonac Roy A. "Buck" Mercer STEWARD DEPARTMENT Port Vice President Government Services ;••• 0 1 ••',4 ' "'44 0 lf,:7: JackCafTey 2 '• 5 • Algonac 0 Vice President Atlantic Coast ENTRY DEPARTMENT . Port ByronKelley o'.; 0 yfy'O: t • 9 0 4 0 Algonac Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corcey Vice President Gulf Coast 19 51 0 0 22 10 48 12 0 Totals All Departments * "Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. HEADQUARTERS ** "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301)899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr. Algonac, MI 48001 DECEMBER 16,1993 — JANUARY 15,1994 (313)794-4988 ••REGISTERED ON BEACH TOTAL SHIPPED •TOTAL REGISTERED BALTIMORE All Groups All Groups All Groups 1216 E. Baltimore St. Class A Class B Class C , Class A Class B Class C Class A Class B Class C Baltimore, MD 21202 DECK DEPARTMENT Region (410) 327-4900 DULUTH 0 0 2 0 0 Atl^tic Coast 705 Medical Arts Building 0 0 1 10 2 11 1 31 Gulf Coast Duluth, MN 55802 0 0 46 0 0 Lakes & Inland Waters 0 :•::'D; (218)722-4110 HONOLULU 2 17 56 0 54 3 77 West Coast 2 606 Kalihi St. 3 27 62 Totals 0 56 89 6 108 Honolulu, HI 96819 (808)845-5222 ENGINE DEPARTMENT Region HOUSTON Atlantic Coast 1221 Pierce St. Gulf Coast 0 0 2 0 0 I 3 Houston, TX 77002 (713)659-5152 Lakes & Inland Wate: 9 _ 0 P .'1?, 2 '4 0 -0' 0 ;i JACKSONVILLE West Coast 0 0 0 0 ' 0 0 0 0 0 3315 Liberty St. Totals 11 0 2 3 0 1 40 3 3 Jacksonville, PL 32206 (904) 353-0987 Region STEWARD DEPARTMENT JERSEY CITY Atlantic Coast 1 0 0 0 0 0 . 2, 0 0 99 Montgomery St. r "• 0 '.'''Tn 0 . . " 0• 0 • --l: •• ,-0' V . "8 Gulf Coast Jersey City. NJ 07302 (201) 435-9424 Lakes & Inland Waters MOBILE West Coast 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy. Totals Mobile, AL 36605 (205)478-0916 NEW BEDFORD Totals All Departments 45 30 69 0 63 147 127 48 Union St. New Bedford, MA 02740 * "Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. (508)997-5404 »* "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. NEW ORLEANS 630 Jackson Ave. New Orleans, LA 70130 (504) 529-7546 NEWYORK In order to ensure that each active that you are not getting your union copy of the LOG delivered to you, if 675 Fourth Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11232 SIU member and pensioner receives mail, please use the form on this page you have changed your address, or if (718)499-6600 a copy of the Seafarers LOG each to update your home address. yoiir name or address is misprinted NORFOLK month—as. well as other important or incomplete, please complete the 115 Third St. Your home address is your per­ form and send it to: mail such as W-2 forms, pension and Norfolk, VA 23510 (804)622-1892 welfare checks and ljulletins or manent address, and this is where all Seafarers International Union PHILADELPHIA notices—a correct home address official union documents Will be Address Correction Department mailed (unless otherwise specified). 2604 S. 4 St. must be on file with the union. Philadelphia, PA 19148 5201 Auth Way If you have moved recently or feel (215)336-3818 If you are getting more than one Camp Springs, MD 20746 PINEY POINT rP.O. Box 75 Piney Point, MD 20674 : HOME ADDRESS FORM (PLEASE PRINT) 2/94 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 2 West Dixie Highway Dania, FL 33004 Name (305) 921-5661 SAN FRANCISCO Phone No. ( 350 Fremont St. San FranciscOi CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Address Government Services Division (415)861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave. Stop I6V2 / I Social Security No. Book No. Santurce, PR 00907 (809)721-4033 n Pensioner Active SIU SEATTLE 2505 First Ave. Other Seattle, WA 98121 (206)441-1960 ST. LOUIS This will be my permanent address for all official union mailings. 4581 Gravois Ave. St Louis, MO 63116 This address should remaln ln the union file unless otherwise changed by me personally. (314)752-6500 WILMINGTON I 5ION. Broad Ave. (Signed). I Wilmington, CA 90744 I I (310)549-4000 I ••r 3 WW- Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters 1-4 •:4 Are You Missing Important Mail? " y-{- • '• • ".•'.' I. ' • '' J J -• Hv: ::s, �FEBRUARY 1994 SEAFARERS LOG Seafaring in Savannah During the Depression To Our New Pensioners ... Thanks for a Job Well Done Each month in the Seafarers LOG, the names ofSIU members who recently have become pensioners appear with a brief biographical sketch. These men and women have served the maritime industry well, and the SIU and all their union brothers and sisters wish them happiness and health in the days ahead. •iPh- -mj'- T he Seafarers Pension Plan this month announces the retirements of 18 SIU members. Sixteen of those signing off sailed deep sea, while one each sailed in the inland and Atlantic Fishermen divisions. Brothers Alfonso Armada and Norwood Bryant com­ pleted bosun recertjfication courses at Piney Point while brothers Joseph Pitetta and William Justi completed the steward recertificatipn course. Of the retiring Seafarers, 10 served in the U.S. military: four in the Navy, three in the Coast Guard and three in the Air Force. Of all the Seafarers signing off this month. Brother Isidore Kyriakas sailed the longest— having received his union book in 1949. Brief biographical sketches of Brothers Armada, Bryant, Pitetta, Justi and Kyriakas as well as the other new pen­ sioners follow. DEEP SEA ALBERT AMABILE, 65, joined the Seafarers in 1959 in the port of New York. A Brooklyn, N.Y. native. he sailed in both the engine and deck departments. He upgraded at the Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in 1982. Brother Amabile served in the U.S. Navy from 1946 to 1947. He still calls Brooklyn home. NORWOOD BRYANT, 65, joined the union in 1962 in the port of Baltimore. A North Carolina na­ tive, he suc­ cessfully completed the bosun recertification course at the Lun­ deberg School in 1982. Brother Bryant served in the U.S. Coast Guard from 1946 to 1951. He retired to Clinton, N.C. STEVE GIANOUTSOS, 65, joined the Seafarers in 1960 in the port of Hous­ ton. Bom in Greece, he sailed in the engine department. Brother Gianoutsos upgraded at Piney Point in 1982. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1951 to 1953. Brother Gianoutsos still calls Greece home. EPIFANIO HIPOLITO, 65, joined the SIU in 1979 in the port of New York. A native of the Philippines, he sailed in the deck department. Brother Hipolito upgraded at the Lun­ deberg School in 1981. He retired to Daly City, Calif. ALFONSO ARMADA, 65, joined the SIU in 1958 in the port of Bal­ timore. Bom in Philadelphia, he successfully completed the bosun recertification program at Piney Point in 1982. Brother Armada calls Baltimore home. WILLIAM JUSTI, 64, joined the Seafarers in 1983 in the port of Philadelphia. He sailed in both the deep sea and inland divisions. Bom in Brooklyn, N.Y., he successfully completed the steward recertifica­ tion program at the Lundeberg School in 1991. Brother Justi resides in Holiday, Fla. DAVID KELLEY, 68, joined the union in 1969 in the port of Wil­ mington, Calif. Bom in Los An­ geles, he sailed as a QMED. Brother Kelley upgraded at Piney Point in 1976. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1943 to 1946. Brother Kelley lives in HoUydale, CaUf. ISIDORE KYRIAKAS, 65, joined the Seafarers in 1949 in the port of New York. A native of Greece, he sailed in the: deck department. Brother Kyriakas calls Metairie, La. home. ENGELBERT LENZ, 62, joined the SIU in 1964 in the port of New York. Bom in Ger­ many, he sailed in the deck department. Brother Lenz upgraded at the Lun­ deberg School in 1981. Jle resides in Wilmington, Calif. JOSE MATA,62, joined the union in 1963 in the port of New Orleans. A native of Costa Rica, he sailed as a QMED. Brother Mata retired to Metairie, La. GRAFTON PIERCE, 65, joined the Seafarers in 1965 in the port of New York. Bom in Vorth Carolina, he sailed in the steward department. Brother Pierce served in the U.S. Army from 1949 to 1953. He calls [louston home. JOSEPH PITETTA, 64, joined the SIU in 1953 in the port of New York. A Brooklyn, N.Y. native, he successfully completed the steward recertification course at Piney 21 Point in 1983. Brother Pitetta served in the U.S. Army from 1946 to 1952. He retired to Las Vegas, Nev. FRANK RIDRIGS, 68, joined the union in 1962 in his native Baltimore. Brother Ridrigs sailed in the steward department. He still calls Baltimore home. EDGAR SCHROCK, 65, joined the Seafarers in 1974 in the port of San Francisco. A Kalona, Iowa native, he sailed as a chief cook. Brother Schrock upgraded at the Lun­ deberg School in 1981. He served in the U.S. Army from 1946 to 1947. Brother Schrock lives in Ocean Park, Wash. RALPH TAYLOR, 56, joined the SIU in 1961 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Bom in Stonewall, Miss., he sailed in the deck department. Brother Taylor still calls Stonewall home. ANGELES VARTHOLOMEOS, 65, joined the union in 1967 in the port of New York. A native of Greece, he sailed in both the en­ gine and steward departments. Brother Vartholomeos upgraded at Piney Point in 1981. He retired to Hoboken, N.J. INLAND ELVESTER SANDERS, 65, joined the SIU in 1980 in the port of Norfolk, Va. A native of South Carolina, he sailed in the steward department. Boatman Sanders served in the U.S. Navy from 1954 to 1961. He retired to Tampa, Fla. ATLANTIC FISHERMEN Editors note: Jim Smith, charter member of the Seafarers, recently sent the following story and accompanying photos to the Seafarers LOG. Brother Smith, 75, signed on with the SIU in 1939 in the port of Baltimore. He sailed with the union, in both the deck and engine departments, through the Korean Conflict and then became an officer with Dis­ trict 2-MEBA, now the American Maritime Officers. He retired 10 years ago as a chief engineer. A veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, Brother Smith lives in Seat­ tle with his wife. He says he is in good health and owns a sailboat. "We have a lot of Jim with it." I t was only by luck that I didn't get picked up by the local min­ ions of the law and sent out to Judge Brown's pea farm to hoe peas for 30 days. This was the winter of 1939 in Savannah, Ga. and the Great Depression still was strangling the economy. For me and four fellow Seafarers, the prospect of getting a ship anytime soon seem^ pretty dim. That winter in Savtmnah was cold—so cold that there were icicles hanging from timbers under the dock where our union hall was located, in an office on the second floor of an old warehouse. There was a potbellied wood stove in the hall which we kept burning, and on which we had a stew pot. Every day, the five of us would venture into the city to scrounge whatever we could from the local merchants: a few potatoes, a couple carrots, a soup bone from a butcher shop and some day-old (read week-old) bread. It all went into the stew pot. But even though we were al­ most always hungry, we usually managed to keep our sense of humor. One of our group was a disenchanted cowboy turned seaman. He wrote on the black­ board in the union hall, "If you think sailing the north Atlantic in the winter is tough, try punching cows on the plains of Montana!" But getting back to Judge Brown... It didn't matter to him and the Savannah police depart­ ment that we all were members in good standing of the Seafarers International Union. If you looked like a good prospect— and didn't have a yankee ac­ cent—you were selected to do 30 days of free labor on the farm. 1 was an especially good can­ didate, since I had come up from Puerto Rico several weeks before and had no warm clothing, and therefore looked decidedly out of place among people dressed in heavy jackets and hats. However, I had learned evasive tactics as a U.S. Marine, and my good luck held. Brother Smith still enjoys sailing. There was a church a few blocks from the union hall that conducted Sunday evening ser­ vices, and «we soon discovered that if we sat quietly, listened to a long sermon and sang a couple religious songs, we would get a bowl of oyster stew with two soda crackers! Any old port in a storm. Finally, about the middle of February, an Isthmian Lines ship came steaming into port that needed a seaman for the 12 to 4. Since this was a non-union ship that paid lower wages and had poorer wcridng conditions, our port agent asked if I would take the job and try to get some of the crew to join the SIU—^which of course1was happy to do. (Also, we had been pretty well scraping the bottom of that stew pot die last few days!) I had a slight problem in that the ship was three miles from the union hall and I didn't have a nickel for bus fare. But I was 21 years old and strong, so there was little choice but to shoulder my sea bag and start hiking. It was dark, cold and windy along the Savannah waterfront and I had to stop and rest several times. It was late evening when I arrived at the SS Steel Age. She was a rusty old Hog Islander built during World War I. (We some­ times called her the Stone Age.) 1 struggled up the gangway and went aft to the seaman's quarters, threw my bag on a bunk and then went amidship to the crew messroom. I took all of the night lunch (which is for the crew on watch) out of the refrigerator and ate it all! During that long voyage to India, I never heard the last of it. In the winter of 1941 the Steel Age was lost to enemy action when she ran afoul of the German submarine U129. All hands perished, including my two watch partners on the 12 to 4. I had left the ship in Calcutta, due to illness, so I did not make that final voyage. LOUIS BIONDO, 63, joined the union in 1967 in the port of Gloucester, Mass. A Boston native, he served in the U.S. Navy for several years. Brother Biondo still calls Gloucester home. • • H"- Correction In the December 1993 Seafarers LOG, Richard McCausland's residence was in­ correctly noted. Brother McCausland, 66, ives in Punta Gorda, Fla. " -I" 'II '6^' ' This 1940 photo shows Smith during off-watch time aboard the Steel Age. The vessel was sunk a year later by a German U-boat. i-Vv-vV- J �22 FEBRUARY 1994 5£4filil£fl5 LOG ii-'; ;.-K Final Deiiaituifia DEEP SEA FRANK CAMARILLO Pensioner Frank Camarillo, 92, passed away December 19. A native of the Philip­ pines, he began his sail­ ing career with the SIU in 1960 in the port of Seattle. Brother Camarillo sailed as a cook, wiper and deck maintenance utility. He retired in July 1977. GORDON CHAMBERS Pensioner Gordon Chambers, 72, died Januarys. Bom in the Bronx, N.Y., he joined the Seafarers in 1943 in the port of New York. Brother Cham­ bers sailed in the engine depart­ ment. He began receiving his pension in Etecember 1973. JOHN CHERRY Pensioner John Cherry, 72, passed away Decem­ ber 30. A North Carolina na­ tive, he joined the union in 1959 in the port of New York. Brother Cher­ ry successfully completed the steward recertification program at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, Md. in 1982. He retired in August 1988. HAROLD DELATTE Pensioner Harold Delatte, 72, died December 24. Bom in Lockport, La., he signed on with the SIU in 19W in the port of Houston. Brother Delatte sailed in the engine department. He served in the U.S. sailed as a chief steward. He retired in late 1985. began receiving his pension in Oc­ tober 1988. GEORGE TRIPLETT FERNANDO ROA JOHN GREEN Pensioner Fer­ Pensioner George Triplett, 68, died December 30. A Texas native, he nando Roa, Pensioner John Green, 65, passed joined the SIU in 1955 in the port 75, passed away December 31. A native of away Decem­ of Baltimore. Brother Triplett Newport News, Va., he joined the sailed in the deck department. He ber 21. A na­ Seafarers in 1959 in the port of Bal­ served in the U.S. Navy from 1944 tive of the timore. Brother Green graduated to 1946. He retired in April 1987. Philippines, from the bosun recertification signed on he course at the Lundeberg School in with the SIU 1975. He served in the U.S. Army in 1950 in the INLAND from 1945 to 1947. Brother Green port of Tampa, Fla. Brother Roa retiredin July 1991. sailed in the steward department. JOHN BUTCHER JOHNMEDVESKY He retired in June 1983. Pensioner Pensioner John Medves- THOMAS SNOWDEN John Butcher, ky, 70, died 74, died December 31. Thomas Snowden, 56, suffered a January 11. A Bom in Penn­ fatal heart attack January 3 while native of sailing as an AB aboard the sylvania, he Dodison, La., began his SIU Guayama. Bom in St. Thomas, V.I., he signed on he joined the union in 1960 in the sailing career with the port of New York. He worked in all in 1943 in the Seafarers in three departments before sailing port of Bal1958 in the timore. Brother Medvesky sailed in regularly as a member of the deck port of New Orleans. Boatman gang beginning in the early 1960s. the engine department. He began Butcher last sailed as a tugboat cap­ Brother Snowden also served in the receiving his pension in December tain. He upgraded at the Lundeberg U.S. Navy from 1955 to 1958. 1986. School in 1976. Boatman Butcher retired in October 1981. WILSON TORRES GEORGE MH^O Pensioner VALENTIN "SONNY'' Pensioner Wilson Tor­ COLUNGA George Milo, res, 71, 77, passed Sonny Colunga, 28, passed away passed away away Decem­ July 25,1993. Bom in Falfurrias, December 21. ber 26. A na­ Texas, he joined the SIU in 1990 in Bom in Puer­ tive of the port of Houston. Boatman to Rico, he Sacramento; Colunga sailed as a DEU aboard began his sail­ Calif., he G&H Towing Company vessels. ing career joined the with the union in 1959 Seafarers in 1943 in the port of ELMER GOFF in the port of San Francisco. New York. Brother Torres sailed Brother Milo sailed in the deck Pensioner as a chief cook. He began receiving department. He retired in August Elmer Goff, his pension in February 1976. 1981. 67, died December 28. RUFUSWOODARD FRANCISCO PINEIRO •A native of Pensioner Dante, Va., he Pensioner Rufus began his sail­ Francisco Woodard,73, ing career Pineiro, 85, passed away died January with the December 27. 4. Bora in, union in 1968 Bom in Puerto Rico, in the port of Norfolk, Va. Boat­ Texas, he man Goff sailed in the steward he joined the joined the department. He sailed with Allied Seafarers in union in 1940 Towing and Interstate Oil Com­ 1941 in the in the port of port of New pany. Boatman Goff served in the Mew York. Brother Woodard York. Brother Pineiro sailed in the U.S. Navy from 1943 to 1965. He MORRIS HILL Pensioner Morris Hill, 71, passed away January 10. Bom in Isle of White County, Va., he joined the Seafarers in the port of Norfolk, Va. Boatman Hill sailed in the deck department. He served in the U.S. Army from 1946 to 1947. Boatman Hill retired in March 1987. Army from 1942 to 1943. He began receiving his pension in August 1986. engine department. He began receiving his pension in July 1971. RAILROAD MARINE HENRY KRINKE Pensioner Henry Krinke, 89, died Decem­ ber 15. A na­ tive of East Norwalk, Conn., he joined the SIU in 1960 in the port of New York. Brother Krinke sailed in the deck depart­ ment. He began receiving his pen­ sion in August 1969. ERNEST SEAGORD Pensioner Ernest Seagord, 77, passed away January 7. A Bronx, N.Y. native, he joined the union in 1960 in the port of Mew York. Brother Seagord sailed in the deck department. He served in the U.S. Army from 1941 to 1945. Brother Seagord retired in July 1970. HARVEY WILLIAMS Pensioner Harvey Williams, 59, died December 10. He signed on with-the Seafarers in 1959 in his na­ tive Norfolk, Va. Brother Williams sailed in the deck department for Chesapeake & Ohio Railway marine operation. Brother Wil­ liams served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1951 to 1954. He retired in June 1990. Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The constitution of the SIU Atlan­ tic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership's money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified publicaccountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretarytreasurer. A yearly finance commit­ tee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their find­ ings and recommendations. Mem­ bers of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recom­ mendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agree­ ments specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alter­ nates. All expenditures and disbur­ sements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund finan­ cial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member's shipping rights and seniority ^e protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are )osted and available in all union lalls. If members believe there have been violations of their ship­ ping or seniority rights as con­ tained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Ap­ peals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 AuthWay Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Ap­ peals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are availab e in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on theproper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a membw believes' that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any ar­ ticle serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, of­ ficer or member. It also has refrained froni publishing articles deemed harmfu to the union or its collective membership. This estab­ lished policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the Sep­ tember 1960 meetings in all con­ ports. The stitutional responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the ex­ ecutive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one in­ dividual' to carry out this respon­ sibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU un­ less an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason imless he is given such receipt In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be mrrfe without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a pay­ ment and is given an offici^ receipt, but feels that he or she should not have b»een required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGA- TIONS. Copies of the* SIU con­ stitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to fai^arize themselves with its con­ tents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempt­ ing to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify head­ quarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All mem­ bers are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no mqmber may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION — SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and pur­ poses including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests oit maritime workers, the preservation and fur­ thering of the American merchant marine with improved employ- ment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connec­ tion with such objects, SPAD sup­ ports and contributes to political, candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job dis­ crimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a con­ dition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers Inter­ national Union or SPAD by cer­ tified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect and fur­ ther his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt re­ quested. The address is: / Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. • �•'. •* • '--'ir. •- FEBRUARY 1994 Ife I ^xh SEAFARERS LOG Paul Domes, Secretary C. Scott, Educational Director P. Kanauos, Steward Delegate Michael Gramer. Chairman updated crew on payoff. No beefs or disputed OT Crew extended vote of The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union ship­ reported. thanks to steward department for board minutes as poSsibie. On occasion, because of space Thanksgiving dinner. imitations, some wiii be omitted. Ships minutes first are reviewed by the union's contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resoiution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for pubiication. OVERSEAS NEW ORLEANS (Maritime Overseas), September 22—Chairman Maurilio Zepeda, Secretary Mark Flores, Deck Delegate Grady Steward, Engine Delegate Doug Smith. Chairman reminded crew to keep mess hall and lounge clean. He advised crewmembers to use caution while on the beach in Panama Canal Zone. Crewmembers discussed new con­ tract outlined in Seafarers LOG. No beefs or (lisputed OT reported. Crew requested clarification of medical benefits for dependants in new contract. Special vote of thanks was extended to steward department for job well done. AMERICAN HERITAGE (Apex Marine), October 21—Chairman Billy Hill, Secretary O. Castagnino. Educational Director Gene Wheelis, Deck Delegate Jimmy Cross, Engine Delegate W.C. Weekley, Steward Delegate AJ. Jordan. Chairman noted flag flown half staff in port of Beaumont, Texas for Pumpman Milton "Willie" Williams killed on OMI Charger. He asked crew to sq)arate plastics from trash. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew dis­ cussed SIU pension plan. Steward delegate reported ftesh milk, fruit, and produce not ordered before departure. Next port: Callao, Peru. LA/G>l/?/ES(ETC), October 18— Chairman Ulus Veach, Secret^ Doyle Cornelius, Educational Director Riley Donahue, Deck Delegate Ralph Neal, Engine Delegate Kevin Conklin, Steward Delegate Udjang Nurdjaja. Chair; man reminded crewmembers to read current issue of Seafarers LOG for new contract highlights. He noted crew should also read Memorandum of Understanding in ETC contract. Secretary asked crewmembers to rewind and return videotapes. Treasurer reported $375 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew re­ quested clarification of new benefits. Vote of thanks'given to galley gang for job well done. OVERSEAS HARRIETTE (Maritime Overseas), October 31— Chairman Ronald Charles, Secretary Howard Williams, Educational Director C. Jefferson, Deck Delegate Mark Downey, En­ gine Delegate Nathaniel Gaten. Chairman noted the last trip was to Chile with payoff in port of New Orleans. He reported crewmembers and officers extended special vote of thanks to deck department for job well done. Secretary an­ nounced load of wheat delivered to Sri Lanka and union mail received. He noted overhead in crew's mess hall and lounge repaired. Disputed OT reported by steward delegate. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck or engine delegates. Crew stated steward department doing ex­ cellent job preparing healthy menus for members. Crew re­ quested repairs for VCR as well as a new tape rewinder. SEALIFTCARIBEANmC), Oc­ tober 19—Chairman M.T. Mar­ quette. Chairman advised crew to keep lounge and mess hall cle^. He announced payoff. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Bosun thanked deck department for excel­ lent job in tanks. Crew requested new mattresses and individual keys for rooms. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang for job well done. Next port: Houston. USNS PERSISTENT iVSMM), October 7—Chairman David Condino. Deck Delegate Albert Aus­ tin, Engine Delegate David Becker, Steward Delegate Rachael Figueiredo. Chairman thanked crewmembers for not smoking during meal hours. Chairman passed around official crew list for members to fill in book numbers and seniority. He reported list will be forwarded to headquarters. Medical Services Officer Denis Hunt announced medical attention available any hour not just during sick call. He reminded crewmembers in cases of emergency, to notify mate on watch who will immediately page him. No beefs or disputed OT repeated. Entire crew thanked steward department for excellent meals. GUS W. DARNELL (Ocean Shipholding), November 14Chairman.John Wolfe, Secretary W. G. Mundy, Educational Dir^tor M. Vacca, Deck Delegate Mil­ ton Lindsey, Engine Delegate Ron Day. Chairman requested copy of new contract be sent when ready. He urged crewmembos not to slam doors in passageways because others are sleeping. He advised crew to use caution on deck due to dangerous winter weather conditions. He en­ couraged members to clean rooms before signing off vessel. No beefs or disputed OT rqxrrted. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang for job well done. Next port: Iceland. ITB GROTON(Sheridan Transpor­ tation), November 28—Chairman N. Matthey, Secretary R. Seligman. Educational Director R. Zajac, Deck Delegate B. Foun­ tain, Engine Delegate Angel Bruno, Steward Delegate Michael Hamnlock. Chairman announced payoff upon arrival in port Decem­ ber 1. Secretary stated ship needs new TV antenna. He urged mem- " hers to donate to SPAD. Education­ al director reminded members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. En­ tire crew extended special thanks to AMERICAN CORMORANT steward department for exceptional (Osprey Shipping), November 29— Thanksgiving dinner. Next port: Chairman Charles Simmons, Port Reading, N.J. Secretary George Jordanides, Educational Director John Groom, ITB PHILADELPHIA (Sheridan Transportation), November 7— Deck Delegate Calvin Patterson, Chairman V. Nielsen, Secretary Steward Department Robert Wright Jr. Educational director ad­ Joseph Emidy, Educational Direc­ tor John Bennifield, Deck vised members to upgrade at LunDelegate Marvin Mason, Engine deberg School and posted Delegate Carlos Bonefont, scholarship information. Crew re­ Steward Delegate Jack Hart. quested new microwave ovoi and iron. Deck delegate reported disputed Educational director advised mem­ bers to upgrade at Piney Point. No OT. No beefs or disputed OT beefs or disputed OT reported. nqported by engine or steward Crew requested patrolman to help delegates. Engine department re­ clarify certain aspects of new con­ quested lifting harness. Crew said tract. Crew gave vote of thanks to crew lounge decorated for Christmas. galley gang for job well done. Next Next port: Rota, Spain. port: New York. AMERICAN HERITAGE(Apex Marine), November 21^—Chairman LIBERTY SEA (Liberty Maritime), November 21—Chair­ Billy Hill, Secretary Ernie Hoitt, man T. Burrell, Secretary James Educational Director Gene Thacker, Educational Director Wheelis, Deck Delegate Jimmy Walter Chancy. Chairman noted Cross, Engine Delegate William voyage to Haifa, Israel was success­ Weekley. Chairman urged mem­ ful. No beefs or disputed OT separate plastics and dis­ bers to reported. Crew discussed the Clin­ cussed fine if it is not done ton administration's proposed properly. He asked crewmembers health care plan. not to smoke in mess room and lounge. Secretary advised crew to LIBERTY STAR (Liberty upgrade skills at Piney Point. He Maritime), November 21—Chair­ added it is a fine facility where man J. Noff, Secretary H. Jones. every member should upgrade. Secretary advised those with Educational director announced enough seatime to upgrade skills at scholarship letter and postws were Lundeberg School. He thanked received. No brefs or disputed OT crewmembers for keeping ship rqxjrted. Crew thanked galley gang clean. No beefs or disputed OT for improved menu. Next port reported. Crew voiced vote of Portland, Ore. thanks to steward department for COVE TRADER (Cove Tankers), great food. Crew requested head cleaner for VCR, new dryer filter November 5—Chairman Michael i Sutton, Secretary Bobby Fletcher, and new washing machine. Crew wished happy holidays to entire Educational Director Richard SIU. Next port: New Orleans. Gracey, Engine Delegate William Marshall. Chairman announced layoff. Secretary noted smooth sail- LNG ARIES (ETC). November 21—Chairman Ulus Veach, ng. Educational director advised Secretary Doyle Cornelius, Educa­ members to upgrade skills at Luntional Director Riley Donahue, deberg School and donate to Deck Delegate Ralph Neal, En­ SPAD. Crew requested new TV gine Delegate Kevin Conklin, and antenna. Chairman reminded Steward Delegate Ut^ang crewmembers to use safety precau­ Nurdjaja. Bosup reminded crewtions while working on ^eck. Crew memlrers to keep lounge clean and also paused in memory of Brother ' rewind and return videotapes tp Milton Williams and others who video library. Educational director perished on OMI Charger. urged memters to upgrade skills at Piney Point. Treasurer reported GALVESTON BAYiSea-Lsmd Service), November 21—Chairman $451 in ship's fund. No b^fs or disputed OT reported. Crew reported Sea/arers LOGs received. Crew gave vote of thanks to steward department for job well done. NEWARK BAY (Sea-Land Ser­ vice), November 7—Chairman D. Marcus, Secretary Nathaniel Bat­ tle, Educational Director Angel Mercado, Engine Delegate Wil­ liam Smith, Steward Delegate Miguel Pabon. Chairman advised crew to use safety first to keep ship and crew healthy and accident free. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman extended special vote of thanks to galley gang for excellent job. OMI PLATTE(OMT), November 23—Chairman Jerry Borucki, Secretary K. Dewitt, Educational Director Alex Resendez, Deck Delegate J. Heatherly, Steward 23 No beefs or disputed OT. Crew listed new fans, mattresses and blankets received in Pearl Harbor. Crew reported smooth sailing and gave vote of thanks to galley gang for job well done. Crew noted look­ ing forward to Australia and An­ tarctic voyages. Next port: Singapore. SEA-LAND ACHIEVER (SeaLand Service), November 14Chairman James Davis, Secretary A. Robinson, Educational Director H. Hamholz, Steward Delegate John Iverson. Chairman discussed new contract and medical and pen­ sion plan with crewmembers. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew noted radio in crew lounge needs repairs. Next port: Elizabeth, NJ. SEA-LAND A TLANTIC (SeaLand Service), November 7— Chairman Bill Stoltz, Secretary F. A Thanksgiving Day Repast The steward department aboard the Sgt. Mate} Kocakgets a rousing vote of thanks for the special Thanksgiving Day dinner from QMED Bud Tuttle, who sent this photo to the LOG. From the left are Chief Cook Albert A. Hendricks, Steward Assistant Gilbert Bonito, Steward Assis­ tant Allen L. Hendricks, Steward Tony Piazza and (kneeling) Third Cook George Carter. Delegate C. Willey. Chairman thanked steward department for job well done and keeping ship clean. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed posting of sailing board 8 hours before shifts and availability of movies. Chairman thanked entire Platte crew for going out of their way to donate food and clothing to orphans. Next port: Wilmington, Del. OVERSEAS MARILYN (Maritime Overseas), November 21—Chairman Michael Ventry, Secretary I.R. Fletcher, Education­ al Director L. Gracia Jr., Deck Delegate William Boyd, Steward Delegate H. Batiz. Chairman an­ nounced new chairs and VCR for crew recreation room received. He reported ship's itinerary uncertain. He advised members to take ad­ vantage of upgrading opportunities at Paul Hall Center and donate to SPAD. Secretary stated all repairs completed except tile in crew mess room. He reported crew anxious to receive news on new contract upon arrival. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman noted scholar­ ship posters arrived. Crew reported fliey enjoyed movies on new TV and VQl. The orew thanked gall^ gang for clean and neat dining area and ex­ cellent food. Crewmembers exnessed deep sorrow over passing of Jnsey Williams, a good union rrother and SIU official. Next port Vew Orleans. RICHARD G. MATTHIESEN Ocean Shipholding), November 14—Chairman James Martin, Secretary W. Ferry, Educational director D. Leigh, Deck Delegate )ana Naze, Engine Delegate Dean )obbins. Steward Delegate Marge Mack. Educational director up­ dated crewmembers on advantages of jipgrading at Lundeberg School. Costango, Educational Director Arthur Rhymes, Deck Delegate L Desaville, Engine Delegate Tom Migiara, Steward Delegate Ali Hydera. Chairman reported good trip with smooth sailing. He also discussed new contract with crew­ members. Secretary noted payoff will be in Charleston, S.C. He reported voyage stores'will be loaded in Houston. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Crew requested chairs and carpet in crew lounge be replaced. Crew extended vote of thanks to steward department for job well done^ SEA-LAND CHALLENGER (Sea-Larid Service), November 21—Chairman Roy Williams, Secretary H.Scypes, Educational Director Dann Manthei, Engine. Delegate Jesus Vazquez, Steward Delegate J.R. Salazar. Chairman stated everything running smooth­ ly. He urg^ all crewmembers to upgrade at Paul Hall Center and donate to SPAD. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Crew gave vote of thanks togalley gang for job well done. Crew requested new TV and antenna. Next port: Elizabeth, NJ. SEA-LAND CRUSADER (SeaLand Service), November 1— Chairman Harold Berggren, Secretary N. Andrews, Education­ al Director Bermeo Oswald. Bosun encouraged crewmembers to read Seafarers LOG and donate to SPAD. Chief steward reminded crew garbage is to be separated for . plastic and paper. Educational director advised members to upgrade at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next port: San Juan. SEA-LAND DEVELOPER (SeaLand Service), November 1— Continued on page 24 •• I.- • li" .•,'- ..' �BE'e?.??C'>^iic7-v/n^« V}. '•: ' • • ' • 24 ki-'-^'VY:: FE0RUARY1994 SEAFARERS LOG Ships Digest Continued from page 23 Chairman D. Cella, Secretary L. Pinn, Educational Director John Ross, Deck Delegate Rickie Bur­ gess, Engine Delegate John Day, Steward Delegate C. Lago. Chair­ man noted holiday greetings dead­ line for Seafarers LOG is November 12. He reminded crewmembers to donate to SPAD. Educational director urged mem­ bers to upgrade skills at Lundeberg School. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed new con­ tract. Electrician reported new washer ordered for crew laundry. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. SEA-LAND INDEPENDENCE (Sea-Land Service), November 21—Chairman J.R. Wilson, Secretary Nancy Heyden, Educa­ tional Director Cardel Dunn, Deck Delegate Mitch Santana, En­ gine Delegate Evaristo Ginez, Steward Delegate Ahdulahilah Mohamed. Chairman stated revisions to new contract received. Secretary thanked Chief Cook Mohamed for outstanding job and excellent food, and noted crew will miss him when he signs off. She reminded crewmembers to lock lounge and movie cabinets when in port. No beefs or disputed OT reported. The chairman extended spe­ cial thanks to crew for helping to keep laundry and recreation rooms clean. He noted the importance of everyone doing their part to keep ship clean. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. engine or steward delegates. Crew asked contracts department for copy of new contract when avail­ able. Crew gave special vote of thanks to steward department for excellent work. Chairman noted ship is always clean and food fan­ tastic. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. SEA-LAND NA VIGATOR (SeaLand Service), November 7— Chairman Steve Copeland, Secretary Ceasar Blanco, Educa­ tional Director Walter Stevens, Engine Delegate Cliff Akers, Steward Delegate Virgllio Hoff­ man. Chairman advised crewmem­ bers signing off to clean rooms. He announced payoff in Tacoma. Wash, and reminded crew to keep rooms locked while in port. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested larger amount of ground coffee for next voyage be­ cause they drink more of it in cold weather. SEA-LAND PACER (Sea-Land Service), November 14—Chairman Lance Zollner, Secretaiy W. Wroten, Educational Director/En­ gine Delegate Morten Bang, Deck Delegate George Holland, Steward Delegate Bob Racklin. Chairman reported eveiything run­ ning smoothly. He announced ship scheduled for Russia run first week in December and will return to Manila run upon return. He praised crew for excellent job done. Steward delegate reported beef. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck or engine delegates. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang for job well done. Next port: Yokohama, Japan. SEA-LAND INTEGRITY (SeaLand Service), November 28— Chairman Jose Ross, Secretary K. Jones, Educational Director J. Walsh, Deck Delegate John Cartos. Engine Delegate W.B. McCants, Steward Delegate S. Bae. Chairman announced payoff in Charleston, S.C. and reported smooth sailing. Secretary urged members to upgrade skills at Piney Point. Educational director reminded members to read Seafarers LOG and donate to SPAD. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested new washer, diyer, VCR, TV and two recliners for crew lounge. ./ ?, ••., .-V. .' . \- ' ;• . •' lounge and mess hall clean. He reminded members to pick up linen and clean rooms when signing off. Crew extended thanks to steward department for job well done. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. and upgrade skills at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew stated Seafarers LOGs received. Crew thanked steward department for nice Thanksgiving and pleasant trip. SEA-LAND PATRIOT (SeaLand Service), November 14Chairman S. Evans, Secretary Robert Castillo, Educational Director Robert Blackwell. Chair­ man reminded crewmembers to separate trash and not throw plastic overboard. He noted smoking rules working well. Educational director urged members to report all broken items to department head and watch safety films. No bqefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Crew gave vote of thanks to steward department for good food and job well done. Next port: Oakland, Calif. USNS WILKES (Bay Ship Management), November 14Chairman Jerry Hill, Secretary Kevin Dougherty, Educational Director Gary Dahl, Deck Delegate James Souci, Engine Delegate Jeffrey Willis, Stewed Delegate Donald Mann. Crew' awaiting response to letters sent to headquarters. Educational director urged members to upgrade skills at Lundeberg School. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Crew extended special vote of thanks to Chief Cook John Gehring for great food and excellent jobdone and wished him well on his vacation. Next port: Sasebo, Japan. SEA-LAND PERFORMANCE (Sea-Land Service), November 14—Chairman Vnny Pinkham, Secretary Johnny Cruz, Education­ al Director Dan Johnson. Chair­ man noted new contract in effect and questions will be addressed at payoff in New York. Secretary ad­ vised members to vote for politicians who support U.S. maritime. He urged crew to donate to SPAD to help get the best people elected. Educational direc­ tor reminded members to observe safety rules and report any hazards. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew gave steward department vote of thanks for job well done. Crew wished Chief Cook Robert Outlaw well in his retirement and noted he will be missed by all. Next port: Boston. SEA-LAND PRODUCER (SeaLand Service), November 28— Chairman K.C. McGregor, Secretary Donna Jean demons. Educational Director J. Smitko, Deck Delegate Larry Thompson, Engine Delegate Steve Cunnin­ gham, Steward Delegate Chris Farrell. Chairman noted barbecue was nice even with rain. He also commended galley gang on Thanksgiving dinner. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next port: Oakland, Calif. SEA-LAND PACIFIC(Sea-Land Service), November 15—Chair­ man Lothar Reck, Secretary George Bronson, Educational Director Steve Bigelow, Deck Delegate Julius Udan, Engine Delegate David Bland, Steward Delegate Johnnie McCree. Chair­ man asked contracts department about Sea-Land's efforts to reflag. He reminded crewmerhbers to put plastic articles in "plastic only" bucket. He noted crew needs new washing machine, and asked crewmembers to make every effort to at­ SEA-LAND SPIRIT(Sea-Land Service), November 21—Chair­ tend ship's meetings. Vocational man H.G. Bentz, Secretary S. director asked that copies of new Apodaca, Educational Director C. agreement be furnished to each Henley. Chairman stressed impor­ department as well as officers. SEA-LAND LIBERA TOR (Seatance of donating to SPAD and Treasurer reported $141 in movie Land Service), November 7— upgrading skills at Paul Hall Cen­ fund and $280 in ship's fund. No Chairman Joel Miller, Secretary ter. No beefs or disputed OT beefs or disputed OT reported. M. Kohs, Educational Director E. Crew stated Seafarers LOGs reported. Crew gave vote of thanks Ford. Educational director en­ received. Chairman,asked mem­ couraged members to upgrade to steward department for job well bers to leave copies in crew lounge done. Next port: Honolulu: skills at Lundeberg School. Deck for everyone to read. Bosun delegate reported disputed OT. No SEA-LAND VALUE (Sea-Land thanked crew for keeping crew beefs or disputed OT reported by Service), November 28—Chair­ man D. Leon, Secretary A. Has­ san, Educational Director J. Catching Up on Union News Yarden, Engine Delegate Pedro Flores, Steward Delegate Alex Bonefont. Educational director ad­ vised members to upgrade skills at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew reported Seafarers LOGs received in Spain. Crew extended vote of thanks to galley gang for job well done. Chairman thanked crewmembers for their professionalism and smooth trip. Receiving the latest copies of the Seafarers LOG aboard the Cape Lobosare, from left, Chief Electrician Keith Jordan, QMED Kenneth Pell and Bosun Michael Pell. WESTWARD VENTURE (Interocean Management), November 2—Chairman M.W. Kadderly, Secretaiy R.B. Sanderson, Educa­ tional Director Chris Cunnin­ gham, Deck Delegate Tom Vain, Engine Delegate Alberto Aguiar, Steward Delegate Hussain Bubaker. Educational director ad­ vised members to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Chairman dis­ cussed scholarship information received and urged members to submit application. Crew said it is very happy with increased depen­ dant coverage in new contract. Crew noted job well done by steward department and thanked galley gang for cooperation in keeping crew lounge clean. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. WESTWARD VENTURE (Interocean Management), November 30—Chairman M.W. Kadderly, Secretary R.B. Sanderson, Educa­ tional Director Chris Cunning­ ham, Deck Delegate Thomas Vain Sr., Engine Delegate Alberto Aguiar, Steward Delegate Hus­ sain Bubaker. Educational direc­ tor encouraged members to upgrade at Piney Point and donate to SPAD. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew extended thanks to steward department for cooperation in keeping lounge and mess hall clean. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. OVERSEAS ALASKA > Maritime Overseas), December 12—Chairman John McMurtray, Secretaiy S. Redding, Educational Director Cary Pratts, Deck Delegate Glenn Christianson, Stewaid Delegate Thurman Johnson. Chairman discussed new contract with crewmembers. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested new VCR. Crew gave vote of thanks to stewaid department and T.J. Johnson for hard work. Next xrrt: Long Beach, Calif. SEA-LAND CONSUMER (Sea~ ,and Service), December 12— Chairman William Mortier, Secretary Sharon Ortiz, Educa­ tional Director K.P. Earhart, Jeck Delegate G. Cudal, Engine delegate R. Raff, Steward Delegate Ernest Polk. Chairman reported Coast Guard drills last trip went very well. Bosun thanked SEA-LAND VOYAGER (Sea crew for job well done. Education­ Land Service), November 28— al director reminded crew to watch Chairman J. Lundborg, Secretary iob-related movies located in R. Miller, Educational Director B. officers' lounge. He advised memLaindis, Deck Delegate Taher Ab- )ers to upgrade skills at Paul Hall dulla. Engine Delegate Domingo Center as soon as possible, Milla, Steward Delegate Abdul "reasurer reported $261 in movie Hasan. Chairman reported smooth und. No beefs or disputed OT trip and payoff in Tacoma, Wash. reported. Chairman advised mem­ He announced new contract will be bers to read Seafarers LOGs in effect next trip. He extended spe­ monthly. Chairman announced cial vote of thanks to contracts ship into dry dock in Yokohama, department for new three-year Japan for 16 days. Steward agreement. Educational director delegate reported paper plates will lu-ged members to support SPAD be used for cold sandwiches. He also stated that while in yard, crew will be provided night lunch. En­ gine delegate gave word of thanks to galley gang for job well done. Wilkes 'Doc' Tends Crew SlU member Tom "Doc" Jen­ sen, medical services officer aboard the USNS Wilkes, treats any injuries that may occur on the oceanographic sun/ey ship. Here he changes the dressing of a crewman injured when hot water spilled on his foot. SEA-LAND HA WAII (Sea-Land Service), December 5— Chairman G. Hamilton, Secretary G.Taan, Engine Delegate Paul Whalen. Crew thanked Captain C. Lamb for comfortable chairs in crew lounge, new mattresses and sharing movies. Chairman discussed impor­ tance of cleaning room for next per­ son before signing off. Crew discussed using wide variety of fhiits and vegetables for salad bar. Educational director requested up­ dated upgrading schedule. Treasurer reported $165 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew extended special vote of thanks to Chief Cook Taan for excellent job. Crew noted im­ proved menus and salad bar from galley gang. SEA-LAND INNOVATOR (SeaLand Service), DecembersChairman F. Adams, Secretary A. Davis. Chairman extended vote of thanks to entire crew for job well done and reminded them to donate to SPAD and MDL. He noted smooth sailing. Educational direc­ tor reminded members to upgrade at Lundeberg School. Deck delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by , steward or engine delegates. Chair­ man encouraged members to read Seafarers LOG. SEA-LAND RELIANCE (SeaLand Service), December 9— Chairman A. Eckert, Secretary G. Sivley, Educational Director A. Jaramillo, Engine Delegate Michael Veigel. Chairman an­ nounced upcoming payoff and sanitary inspection by captain. Secretary updated crewmembers on upgrading opportunities avail­ able at Paul Hall Center. He also thanked crew for clean ship. Educa­ tional director urged members to report any electrical problems. No bwfs or disputed OT reported. Chairman thanked all departments for smooth trip. He extended spe­ cial vote of thanks to galley gang for fine Thanksgiving dinner. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. m •; i;' I-J.-,; :• • ^ -Z . �FEBRUARY 1994 gilV ".. w-i;-' • 'vessels to offload cargo in Japan, SIUcrewed Energy Transportation Corp. (ETC) vessels have to wait for high tide to enter the port of Tobata as well as depart the harbor. However, Seafarers take it all as part of the routine operations."It's the only port where we have to wait for a window," noted Wiper Deb­ bie Textor of the LNG Capricorn. Tt doesn't mean we have to do anything special," added AB Ryan Camardelle. "It just tneans we do more painting and chipping at sea while we wait,to enter and tie up." In fact, the work never stops on the Capricorn. Whether at sea, taking on liquified natural gas in Indonesia or offloading it in Japan, crewmembers still have to provide preventive maintenance such as chipping and painting in the deck department and oiling and greasing in the engineroom. While times are limited for sailing through the harbor, time at the dock also is scarce. Turn­ around for the LNG ship is approximately 24 hours. This provides little time for going into town or seeing the surrounding community as work has to continue aboard ship. The Capricorn, like the other seven ships in the ETC fleet, completes a roundtrip about once each month. SEAFARERS LOG Desserts and salads are ready for lunch as Chief Cook Perry "Lavonf McCall and SA Angie Robertson stand by to take orders. 25 Preparing for the start of a shipboard union meeting are Bosun Charles Kahl (left) and AB Don Bridenstein. Capricorn crewmembers meet in the mess room to take part in the ship's union meeting. Inspecting a lifeboat aboard the LNG Capricorn are OS Robert Snay (left) and Bosun Charles Kahl. OS Terrence T-Bone" Boney (right) meets with SiU Executive Vice President Joseph Sacco when the union official visited with crewmembers aboard the vessel. if , r: .^"'1 :f �26 SEAHU«RSL06 W-itl ' ^ I ' , f »' ^ ) FEBRUARY 1994 <i Lundeberg School Graduating Classes "^8 X 7 S"* 1« Upgradcrs Lifeboat—^With instructor Ben Cusic (left) are Trainee Lifeboat Class 518—Graduating from trainee lifeboat class 518 are (from left, kneeling) upgrading graduates of the November 18 lifeboat class William SimMelvinSingletary.JamesDavisJr., Robert Gaudreau, David Duboise.DuaneBrosius, Jeffrey Sanders, mens ana i im Kacer. (second row) Jim Brown (instructor), Aaron Mehuren, Jimmy White Jr., Herbert Scypes Jr., Samuel Sheridan, Craig Campeau, Zachariah Zahra and Norman Walzer Jr. • 4 Able Bodied Seaman—Certificates of completion were received by the November 18 class of MIIBBBIP' upgraders They are (from left, kneelmg) Robert Heath, John Cedeto, Robert Durtor LBJ Tanoa Lee Marine Electronics Technician II—liio ,w.e,„ue, 12 -The November Toczylowski, Jose Ortiz, (serond row) William Simmons Luis A. Valerio, Bryan K HoneycutLJe^ graduates of the marine electronics technician course are (from left) NatividadJr.,DanielTennant,TerrenceBoney,fenCusic(instmrtor),(thiidrow)MarkJohnson,Thomas Q shepard, Tony ll^ohammed, Russ Levin (InHurley, Alan HIggins, Ben Johnson, Jeffery Hunter and Darin Millikan. structor) and Bob Flesey. ' Welding—Graduating on November 16 from the welding course are (from left, kneeling) Paul LightfoOt, Steve Kastel, Robert McDonald, Steven Sanchez, Steve Schwedland, (second row) Lawrence Rose, Robert Rudd, Mike Clapshaw, William McClure Jr. (instructor), Alfred Herrmann, Gary Frazier, Peter Hokenson and Matthew Ditullio. #• Several SlU steward department upgraders put their culinary training into practice last December when they prepared hors d'oeuvres and other treats for holiday meals and celebrations. Above, Chief Cook Walter Seals deftly slices different kinds of cheese while, below. Chief Cook Eric Bull sets up a platter of deviled eggs. Shiphandliim—^Working their way up the deck department ratings are (from left, front row) Mark ^m, Romeo Lugtu, Tom Orzechoski, (second row) John Thomas Thompson, Mark Lamar and Michael Presser. ' i. �• I '• ':••.•>,'v>37 5V.5Eife;^',wafcA^«?!S'ft •'• •, XAFUtBO^tOe KBRUAItri994 LUHDEBERG SCHOOL 1994 UPGHADIHG COURSE SCHHtULE .Course Check-In Date Completion Date Bosun Recerfification March 28 May 2 , Steward Recertifiation Julys August 8 Steward Upgrading Courses Deck Upgrading Couises Check-In Date Completion Date Able Seaman May 20 July! July 15 August 26 All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. Bridge Management (Shiphandling) Radar Certification •V. Celestial Navigation Third Mate 3.-dr Limited License, Part 1 Limited License, Part 2 Limited License, Part 3 . March II May 6 July 29 March 25 May 20 August 12 March 4 April 29 May 20 June 17 July 22 March 11 May 6 May 27 June 24 July 29 March 25 July 1 May 6 August 12 April 19 .J Chief Cook, Chief Steward All open-ended (contact admissions office for starting dates) Check-In Date Conqdethm Date June 17 Diesel Engine Technology June 27 July 22 August 12 Refrigeration Maint. & Operations March 21 April 29 April 11 June 20 April 22 July 1 Refrig. Containers - Advanced Maiht May 2 Welding April 25 July 5 May 6 July 15 May 9 July 18 May 20 July 29 . -: ^ March 28 April 22 ; : Pumproom Maint. & Operations May 2 JunelO Hydraulics June 20 • July 15 Marine Electrical Maintenance Julys August 26 Hydraulics June20 July 15 . June 24 Julys Aprils Coui^ GED Preparation 12 weeks - open-ended admission Adult Basic Education (ABE) 6 weeks - open-ended admission Basic/Advanced Fire Fighting March 11 May 6 Julys March 25 May July 22 English as a Second Language (ESL) 6 weeks - open-end^ admission Sealifi Operations & Maintenance March 21 May 9 Juiyii April 15 June3 August 5 Developmental Studies March 7 March 14 March 21 • vV-vt-!-.- , (Middle) (First) Address. (Street) (Zip Code) (State) (City) Date of Birth. (Month/Day/Year) (Area Code) Inland Waters Member G Lakes Member• Deep Sea Member D Complefion Date March 11 March IS March 25 yM Primary language spoken OPGRAOIHG APPLHtATRiN Telephone _£, N *'* f The following courses are available through the Seafarers Hany Lundeberg School. Plfase contact the admissions office for enrollment information. Check-In Date (Last) s- 1994Adult Education Schedule March 18 May 6 May 20 June 3 Julyl July 29 Name • 'I, June 10 March 25 April 22 May 6 May 20 June 17 July 15 Lifeboatman , All open-ended (contact admissions office for starting dates) May 9 March 11 June 17 Julyl V • Assistant Cook, Cook and Baker FiremanAYatertender and Oiler Oil Spill Prevention and Containment ^ 1 I'- • Completion Date All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. Check-In Date Completion Date K Course Couri« Cour^ i Check-In Date SiglneUpgradlng Courses SalefySpeclatty Courses T 27 RecerUttcatlon Programs The following is the course schedule for classes beginning between March and July 1994 at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship located at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. All pro^ams are geared toimprove job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. S The course schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—^in times of conflict—the nation's security. Course v;...-' ••;• With this application, COPIES of your discharges must be submitted showing suffi­ cient time to qualify yourself forthe course(s) requested. You also must submit a COPY of each of the following: the first page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, your clinic card and the front and back of your z-card as well as your Lundeberg Sclwol identification card listing the course(s) you have taken and com­ pleted Admissions Office WILL NOT schedule you until all cf the above are received BEGIN END COURSE DATE DATE If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Book# Social Security # . Department Seniority U.S. Citizen; •Yes • No •II -Ik Home Port. LAST VESSEL: Endorsemeiit(s) or License(s) now held Are you a graduate of the SHLSS trainee program? If yes, class# Have you attended any SHLSS upgrading courses? Date On:, •Ves •Ves DNO DNO If yes, course(s) taken Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? •Ves DNO Firefighting:•YeS DNO CPRrGYes GNO SIGNATURE. Rating: TT Date Off:. DATE Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. RETURN COMPLETED APPLICATION TO: Lundeberg Upgrading Center, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674. •yj.. : t. �r SEAmSERS SlU SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES February 1994 Volume 56, Number 2 April 15 is the deadline for scholar­ ship applications for Seafarers and members of their families. See page 10 to lea rn more about the scholarship— and how to apply. • -I- '••• v..'., •: After Lundeberg School Instructor Byran Cummlngs (above, left) demonstrates proper way to put out a fire using carbon dioxide extinguisher, crewmembers from the SS Constitution and SS Independence practice the maneuver (above and right). Continuing Shipboard Safety Training Provides Better Passenger Protection For crewmembers aboard the two SIUcrewed U.S.-flag passenger ships sailing around the Hawaiian islands, safety is a way of life. Whether it is the weekly lifeboat drill involving all the passengers with the crew, a nightly fire-watch detail or assisting pas­ sengers as they embark or disembark from the 55 Constitution or 55 Independence, Seafarers maintain a constant patrol for the well-being of their ships and guests. Over the years, the Seafarers Harry Lun­ deberg School of Seamanship has provided on-site lifeboat and first aid/CPR training for crewmembers aboard the vessels. These classes always are scheduled so they do not interfere with passenger and sailing opera­ tions. With the new year and the recent pur­ chase of the passenger ships by the Delta Queen Steamboat Company, the school was asked to expand its training efforts on the Hawaiian-based ships. The company made the request following the success of a similar program aboard its riverboats. Health and Safety Instructor Byran Cummings, who along with fellow instruc­ tor John Smith has been training Seafarers aboard the Delta Queen and Mississippi Queen since 1990, oversaw one-week ses­ sions aboard the Independence and Con­ stitution in January. Met with Crew Before classes began, Cummings walked through the vessels and talked with crewmembers to get an idea of what would be needed during this first session. "The difference between firefighting training aboard the riverboats and the pas­ senger ships is like fighting a house fire and a high rise fire," Cummings told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG. "You have to adapt the training to the environment." Should a fire break out aboard either the Mississippi Queen or Delta Queen, Cum­ mings explained that crewmembers are able to steer the vessel to the river bank, tie the riverboat to a tree, drop the gangway and escort the passengers off the ship while crews get the blaze under control. However, should a similar accident hap­ pen on the Independence or Constitution, he noted, "We train the crewmembers that the ship is the only surface out there for the vast amount of passengers aboard. "Of course, we realize the ships are al­ ways near the islands, but we train them not to rely on that." Fire Drills Held In order to see how emergency squads on both ships would respond in the event something caught fire, Cummings with the chief mates of the ships held unannounced fire drills. The practice sessions took place while the ship was docked, so a majority of passengers were ashore. The drill consisted of a cabin steward being told he had a fire in a room in his section. While the steward informed the purser of die problem, the chief mate pulled the fire alarm, which sounded only on the bridge and in the crew quarters. As the emergency squad, in full firefighting gear, made its way to the pas­ senger decks, the purser announced to the remaining passengers aboard that a fire drill was taking place and no emergency existed. "The reaction from the tourists on the passengers ships was the same as on the river­ boats," Cummings said. "They wanted to watch to see how the crew reac^. "Later, we heard comments that they were pleased and felt better knowing such training takes place." Comprehensive Sessions The emergency squads on each of the passenger ships consist of approximately 45 mariners from both the deck and engine departments. Besides the mock fire, emer­ gency squad members also receive training in oil spill response and clean-up as well as maintenance and operation of self con­ tained breathing apparatus. Other crewmembers, including those in the steward department, participated in courses each day. Subjects included fire prevention, operation and use of fire extin­ guishers, the Heimlich maneuver, chemical safety, and water safety and survival. These classes were held several times each day at various hours so the maximum number of crewmembers could participate. Crewmembers were able to witness and )ut out fires with extinguishers deep in the lold of the ship. Safety precautions—^in­ cluding additional foam, sand and firefighters—were on hand in case a fire did get out of control. T Help Locate This Missing Chiid t^.^.' -•.f'':yy-:'^f'--- - 'Cx"'- ' The National Center for Missing arid Exploited Children has asked the Seafarers International Union to assist them in locating Elizabeth Renee Melton. :;iS . •-y V • Steward department members gather In the hold of the Independence Bosun Mike Rivera leads an emer; to receive refresher training on how to put out small fires aboard ship, gency squad during a fire drill. •-'V —• , i " Elizabeth Renee Melton Missing from Covington, Ky. since January 12, 1993, when she was 15 years old, Elizabeth Renee Melton is considered an endangered runaway. She was last seen at school and has run away before. At the time of her disap­ pearance, the blonde-haired, blue-eyed girl was 5'2" tall and weighed 150 pounds. Anyone having information on the whereabouts of Elizabeth Renee Melton should contact the National Center for Missing and Ex­ ploited Children at (800) 8435678 or the Missing Persons Unit of the Kenton County (Ky.) Police Department at (606) 3563895. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 1990-1999 Description An account of the resource Volumes LII-LXI Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993; Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource February 1994 Description An account of the resource Headlines: LONG LINES CREW COMMENDED FOR SUPERB CABLE REPAIR JOB NORTHEAST THAW ASSISTS SHIPPING SEAFARERS TURN TO IN SWIFT OIL RECOVERY USCG INVESTIGATES BERMAN ACCIDENT DOT HEAD CALLS FOR TOUGH INLAND SAFETY REGULATIONS MTD MOBILIZES GRASSROOTS DRIVE TO URGE BACKING OF MARITIME BILLS LOCAL STUDENTS PROVIDE MEMORABLE HOLIDAY FOR AMERICAN CORMORANT GREAT LAKES VESSELS LAY UP FOR THE WINTER NEW SIU CLINIC OPENS IN MARYLAND DYN MARINE CREWS RATIFY NEW 2-YEAR CONTRACT LABOR ANNOUNCES DRIVE TO GAIN HEALTH CARE REFORM SEAFARERS OK DELTA QUEEN PACT NEW YORK FERRY CREWS BEAT HUDSON'S ICY MAZE NEW SWATH VESSEL USNS ABLE, BREAKS OUT THIS MONTH 200 SEAFARERS AID IN EFFORT TO RECOVER OIL S/L INDEPENDENCE CREW RATED 'SECOND TO NONE' ON ASIAN SHUTTLE RUN BOSUN LITTLE RETIRES WITH 'ISLAND' SEND-OFF CLEVELAND'S CREW READIES FOR PIRATE THREATS USNS WILKES CREW HELPS MAKE MISSION A 'COMPLETE SUCCESS' PRES. ADAMS' HOLIDAY MEAL A 'STUNNER' SEAFARING IN SAVANNAH DURING THE DEPRESSION LOW TIDES MAY SLOW VESSEL, BUT WORK NEVER STOPS ON LNG CAPRICORN CONTINUING SHIPBOARD SAFETY TRAINING PROVIDES BETTER PASSENGER PROTECTION Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2/1/1994 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 56, No. 2 1994 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/e722057971b82a725e778f0e1e228a51.PDF 039cfa1c45e03ca39956d8c0bd3f77da PDF Text Text OFFICIAl ORGAN OF THE SEAFARERS tHTERNATIONAl UHION • ATLANTIC GUlf, lAKES AND INLAND WAHRS MSTRia • AFl-CiO Volume 56, Number 1 January 1994 Good News for U.S. Maritime Ocean Shipping Excluded From World Trade Accord Page 3 '93's Cairn Weather Means Good Year for Lakes' Ships Lundeberg School to Offer Refrigeration CertiRcation Page 9 — ^—- 2:or)c/i>0 0(>>0?0 .. -HCO . ooc/imt-ir* a—I 00; •. £:rrny,>->70 • M HOO ooo2:t/> -H :x) CO U) po •-« CO J> •umorn^r om>o o-Hr--i I ^ co:2 om CO Ds: cr^ CO vO O-V O Tl> T3 •acm Pages New Safety and Respue Courses Offered The Paul Hall Center has added new courses to its curriculum that cover confined space entry and rescue, designed to assist Seafarers in the event of an emer­ gency at sea. Story on page 9. ; / /• •u y • -f. ;'j v. 'v - •' �2 SEAFARERS LOG President's Report Progress Continues for Seafarers JANUARY 1994 MartUme Issues atRtre l/nmi Cougress Resumes Now that 1993 has come to an end, it is time to pause for a mo­ ment and reflect on what the SIU has accomplished. The year was marked by an increase in employment opportunities for Seafarers and Meanwhile, the House is ex- 1970s and Congress faces a full slate of the addition of contracted vessels to the SIU's fleet of ships. jected to continue its work on mid-1991 on legislation dealing with the U.S.The most significant of these was the addition of 16 oil spill clean­ flag maritime industry when it egislation that would make the the inland up boats operated by Dyn Marine. This resulted returns to Cqiitol Hill this month. nation'5 inland waterways safer. waterways when crewmembers of these vessels, which are While the Senate will be con­ Two bills are before the House were caused located around the U.S. coastline as well as templating bills that involve Coast Guard and Navigation Sub­ by human fac­ Hawaii and the Virgin Islands, voted to be repre­ tors. That maritime revitalization and committee awaiting action. sented by the SIU. compares foreign-flag cruise ships, the Seek Safer Waterways Among the new jobs available to members last House of Representatives will The subcommittee already has with human year were those aboard AT&T's newest cable ship, continue its work on inland held one hearing on a bill that factors being the Global Mariner. waterway safety legislation. would require all boatmen sailing the primary Sen. Breaux The year saw the U.S. House of Repre­ cause in 36 — The Senate is expected to hold sentatives focus its full attention on the U.S.-flag hearings on the Maritime aboard vessels of more than five percent of the gross tons to hold merchant Michael Sacco maritime industry. The union worked hard with Security and Competitiveness mariner documents (z-cards). accidents on the Great Lakes and the bipartisan leadership of the House Merchant 31 percent on the deep seas Act (H.R. 2151) by spring. The Marine and Fisheries Committee, which offered legislation in May to House passed the measure by a H.R. 1915 would close loopholes during the same reporting period. in the present laws governing the revitalize the U.S.-flag merchant fleet. 347-65 margin in November. Accident-Related Bill 25,777 miles.of navigable water­ In November, shortly after President Clinton announced his sup­ H.R. 2151 outlines a 10-year ways that allow a majority of the The other piece of legislation port for the bill, the House overwhSlmingly passed H.R. 2151, a pro­ program to provide $1.2 billion men and women on tugs, tows before the subcommittee stems gram designed to carry U.S.-flag shipping into the next century. The for a proposed Maritime Secuiily bill received strong support from Democrats and Republicans alike in Fleet Although the bill does not and barges to sail without z-cards. directly from the September 22 All mariners sailing aboard fatal accident when a passenger passing 347-65. provide a U.S.-flag deep sea and Great train plunged into a bayou near At the same time, the House sank an attack on cargo preference specific num­ L^kes vessels must hold mer­ Mobile, Ala. after a tugboat push­ by farm state legislators by a 309-109 margin. ber of ships chant mariner documents and go ing six barges hit a bridge sup­ Also on Capitol Hill, the SIU continued the fight to make our that would be through the procedures necessary port, knoclang it out of line. A nation's inland waterways safer. The union worked with elected offi­ i n c 1 u d e d j to obtain them. Those require­ total of 47 passengers died and cials to introduce legislation calling for most boatmen to hold Coast news reports ments include passage of a drug 150 were injured. Guard-issued merchant marine documents. This would require the note the figure The Towing Vessel Naviga­ test, I a criminal records check, men and womien who sail on the inland waterways to meet the same would be be­ review for drunk-driving or con­ tional Safety Act (H.R. 328^2) requirements (such as drug testing and an FBI background check) as tween 50 and trolled substance violations, calls for all towing vessels to be American mariners on the deep seas and Great Lakes. 70 vessels. proof of employment in the in- equipped with marine charts, With regard to contracts. Seafarers ratified new three-year standard The bill Rep. Studds dustiy or evidence of military ser­ navigational publications, com­ deep sea freightship and tanker agreements that not only provide an in­ also creates a vice and much more. pass, radar and fathometer. The crease in salaries but also extend outpatient benefits to the dependents new Series Transportation Pro­ In a study conducted by the )ill also requires licensed towand spouses of Seafarers. SIU members sailing on the Great Lakes ap­ gram to help U.S. shipyards build SIU of Coast Guard figures con­ )oat operators to be proficient in proved a new four-year accord that included a salary increase and ex­ vessels that are price-competitive cerning reported accidents, 58 the use of these navigational aids. tended outpatient benefits to their families. on the world market. percent of foose between the late Continued on page 7 The SIU can take pride in its record built during 1993. But the Search for Funds union has no intention of resting on its laurels. This new year Part of the work that will be promises to be full of challenges that the SIU will be ready to con­ done by the Senate on the bill will front. We have our work cut out for us. The fights we will be facing be to work with the House and the won't be easy. But, the union plans to move forward, to be at the Clinton administration to find the forefront of the battles that will carry the maritime industry into 1994 funding for such legislation. and into the coming new century. Representative Gerry Studds Michael R. McKay has been Looking Ahead (D-Mass.), chairman of the elected to a full three-year term as The SIU is very much aware of the determination of the enemies House Merchant Marine and >resident of the American of U.S. shipping to drive the American flag off the high seas. Last Fisheries Committee, told the year, the multi-national agribusinesses showed their resolve in trying Washington, D.G. Propeller Club Maritime Officers District 2MEBA (AMO), a union of ocean­ to get rid of cargo preference legislation. last month that he and his going, Great Lakes and inland Despite being heavily subsidized, these agribusinesses, which in­ counterpart in the Senate, John clude some companies with their own foreign-flag fleets, continue to Breaux (D-La.), had met with waters merchant marine officers. McKay, a marine engineer, scream and holler that maritime is taking money away from the small President Clinton and his aides to defeated Jimmie Dale Alexander family farmers when nothing could be further from the truth. While discuss the situation. a vote of 909 to 189. Also by these firms rake in billions in government subsidies, they begrudge "When we left that meeting, elected by the membership was the merchant marine of the tiny friaction it receives from the Treasury we had the president's support," merely in an effort to stay afloat. said Studds, who was part of the Timothy A. Mohler as Great The union will use every ounce of its energy to keep them from bipartisan team of legislators to Lakes vice president. He defeated slowing or scuttling a bill that affects the lives of tens of thousands of introduce the bill. "We had his Robert Noffze 872 to 168. All working American mariners, their families and all those people whose support because this president other positions were unopposed. "I am gratified by the out­ livelihoods depend on the U.S-flag merchant fleet. and this administration believe, come," McKay said after the It Will be especially important in this coming year that Seafarers as we do, that if America can results were announced. "The continue to support the union's political activities through donations neither build nor operate the ships Michael McKay vote was a reflection of con­ to SPAD. A strong political program means a strong presence on we require to carry our trade to Capitol Hill, where legislation which affects Seafarers is debated world markets or support our fidence in me, Tim and the entire daily. Such legislation includes not only maritime but also other mat­ troops in time of war, we will no executive board of AMO, and of Raymond McKay, his father, the faith in the sensible policies passed away. The younger longer be a superpower." ters like health care and the economic problems of the nation. Also before the Senate is a bill long pursued in AMO." He also McKay had served as the union's SIU members and their families should continue to be involved at that would prohibit foreign-flag noted the membership's "solid secretary-treasurer since 1980. the grassroots level. It is important that elected officials know Seafarers are among their constituents. Union members can do this by vessels' offering one-day gaming and continued support" would He joined AMO in 1968 and attending meetings with representatives or senators or by writing let­ cruises from sailing in and out of allow the union to protect its in­ sailed as a marine engineer. dependence and "sustain its deep The secret ballot election took the same U.S. port. ters to express views in support of maritime. sea. Great Lakes and inland water place over a two-month period The House approved the I truly believe Seafarers will continue to be the best trained jobs and secure new work oppor­ beginning September 30. An im­ United States-Flag Passenger mariners in the world, thanks to the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg tunities." partial administrator supervised Vessel Act (H.R. 1250) in School of Seamanship at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training McKay became president of the balloting and ballot count, November and sent it to the and Education. the union in August when which was witnessed by the can­ The school is the leader in maritime training by providing courses Senate for consideration. The bill, longtime AMO President didates and other AMO members. introduced by Representative to Seafarers that keep members up-to-date in technology aboard ves­ Gene Taylor (D-Miss.), is Volume 56 Number 1 sels on the deep seas, inland waterways or Great Lakes. In 1994, the January 1994 designed to close loopholes in the staff of the school will continue working with contracted operators to make sure that its curriculum keeps SIU members on top of the field. Passenger Vessel Act of 1886 and Whether members upgrade their departmental ratings or take specialty the Jones Act of 1920. The Seafarers LOG {ISSN 0160-2047) is published The U.S. Customs Service has courses such as firefighting or oil spill prevention and containment, the monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, used the loopholes to declare such school will update its courses so members will graduate with the latest Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District; AFL-CIO; 5201 voyages, known as "cruises-toavailable informa^on to perform their jobs better aboard ship. Auth Way; Camp Springs, Md. 20746. Telephone (301) The SIU also will continue working with contracted companies to nowhere," legal. 899-0675. Second-class postage paid at MSG Prince The bill would phase out the break out more vessels under the American flag. Already under con­ Georges, Md. 20790-9998 and at additional mailing foreign-flag vessels early in the struction is the American Queen, a new paddlewheel riverboat being offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the next century unless American built by the Delta Queen Steamboat Company. New boats like the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp/Springs, Md./ citizens are employed on board American Queen will continue to provide new jobs for Seafarers—a 20746. " the ship, a U.S.-flag vessel with at never-ending quest for the SIU. Managing Editor, Daniel Duncan; Associate Editors,/orleast 75 percent of the passenger The year 1994 holds so much promise for Seafarers and their dan Biscardo and Corrina Christensen; Associate capacity does not enter the same families. The union intends to do everything possible to make this a Editor/Production, Deborah A. Hirtes; Axl, Bill Brower. market or the vessel is not sold. better and brighter year for everyone. X..-. •> - r,: . .,-y M Michael McKay Elected To Presidency of AMO •I I : ! 11' • •' I •; I V I �SEAFARERSL06 JANUARYim 3 &iipiring Dropped from World Trade Pad Maritime Interests Urged Water Transport Be Kept Out of GATT Negotiators at the world trade talks eliminated maritime ser­ vices from the world trade agree­ ment last month as they concluded seven years of negotia­ tions and created the World Trade Organization (WTO). The move was welcomed by shipping interests around the world, including those in the U.S., which believe the industry already is regulated through multi-nationd and bilateral accords. 'Mission Achieved' "It is gratifying that the negotiators saw fit to exclude maritime," noted SIU President Michael Sacco. "That was our main objective when the talks began. We are glad that mission was achieved.", The meetings, which began in Uruguay in 1986 as the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT), closed December 15 when negotiators wrapped up thenwork in a fluny of last-minute ac­ tivities. Included in those sessions was the prospect that maritime would be a part of the services con­ trolled by the treaty. But, an agreement was reached by the negotiators to ex­ clude ocean transportation from the final document in order to wrap up the document. This al­ lows the United States to main­ tain all of its current maritime laws and practices, including the Jones Act, cargo preference and operating subsidies. That agreement also called for the U.S., the European Union (formerly the European Com- munity composed of 12 European nations) and five other countries to enter into separate negotiations through June 1996 concerning maritime. If no agreement at liberalizing maritime transporta­ tion can be reached by that date, then ocean shipping will be com­ pletely left out of the WTO. Some Provisions Considered Shortly before the December 15 deadline, word came from Geneva, Switzerland (where the talks were being held) that some aspects of maritime were being offered by the United States. The proposal included the limiting of cargo preference programs to their present levels and weaken­ ing the powers of the Federal Maritime Commission as it re­ lates to other nations' unfair ship­ ping practices. This came after years of com­ mitments from the U.S. govern­ ment and other nations around the world that ocean shipping would not be included in GATT. Union Fights Plan The SIU, along with others in the maritime community, voiced its displeasure with such a plan to the administration and members of Congress^—including House Majority Leader Richard Gephardt (D-Mo.), House Majority Whip David Bonior (DMich.), the House Rules Com­ mittee and Chairman Joe Moakley (D-Mass.), House Mer­ chant Marine Committee Chair­ man Geny Studds (D-Mass.) and Senate Merchant Marine Suibcommittee Chairman John Seafarers Medical Plan Contracts New Centers In Mobile, Alabama As of January 3, Seafarers who live near the port of Mobile, Ala. now have access to a pair of noted medical facilities which are avail­ able to provide SIU members and their families with both routine and emergency treatment. The Seafarers Welfare Plan has entered into contracts with Mobile Family Physicians and with the Mobile Infirmary Medi­ cal Center. Mobile Family Physicians is located at 1924-K Dauphin Island Parkway, roughly a half-mile from the Mobile union hall. The clinic is staffed with six family practitioners who are capable of handling not only the medical re­ quirements of SIU members so f'-- they can sail (annual physicals and drug tests), but also primary health care needs for spouses and dependents covered by the SIU insurance program. The facility is equipped with in-house X-ray and laboratory services and can take care of some outpatient surgery. Mobile Family Physicians ac­ cepts patients by appointment, but they also will try to accom­ modate walk-in visits. The facility is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 9 a.m. to 12 noon on Sundays. The clinic also has a physician on call Breaux (D-La.). Several days after the proposal was presented, U.S. Trade Repre­ sentative Mickey Kantor backed away from it. The negotiating session, known as the Uruguay Round be­ cause of where the talks started, was called to encompass a variety of services including agriculture, financial services, telecom­ munications and transportation into the global trading rules. The round was expected to end in 1990, but continued for another three years because of r i L/lems within some countries of the European Union over the reduc­ tion of agricultural subsidies. The U.S. Congress had given the White House approval to negotiate the treaty without the legislators being able to amend it if it was presented within a certain time period. That process, known as "fast-track," allowed repre­ sentatives and senators to cast only a vote for or against the treaty. After renewing the fasttrack authority in 1991, Congress set a December 15,1993 deadline for completing the talks and retaining the no amendment provision when voting on GATT. (The fast-track authority will not carry over when the new negotiations concerning maritime begin. Congress, unless it votes otherwise, will have the right to amend any agreement that may come from those negotia­ tions.) President Clinton has an­ nounced he intends to sign the treaty on April 15. •:; - • • :• r v; , •>41' Spotlight on Inlanil Saf^ Regs Follows Recent Amtrak Disaster Congress will face renewet emphasis concerning inlanc waterways legislation following last month's introduction of proposed safety regulations by the Secretary of Transportation and public hearings on the cause of a fatal Amtrak accident near Mobile, Ala. Two bills are already under consideration by the House Coast Guard and Navigation Subcom­ mittee. The Inland Documenta­ tion Bill (H.R. 1915) calls for all boatmen sailing on inland water­ ways vessels of more than five gross tons to hold Coast Guard-is­ sued merchant mariner docu­ ments (z-cards). Also before the subcommittee is the Towing Vessel and Naviga­ tional Safety Act of 1993 (H.R. 3282), which requires all inland waterway vessels to be equipped with marine charts, navigational publications, compass, radar and fathometer. H.R. 1915 was introduced last year by Representative Gerry Studds (D-Mass.), chairman of the House Merchant Marine and Fisheries Committee. The SIU has supported such legislation since 1992. Renewed Attention military service. Z-cards must be renewed every five years. In order to receive an advanced rating, a boatinan must pass a Coast Guard examination that indicates proficiency and knowledge of the rating. Lacking Navigational Tools In testimony before the sub­ committee on October 12, the Coast Guard pointed out that the Mauvilla was not equipped with marine charts, navigational tools or a compass nor is such equip­ ment required by law. The day after the hearing, Subcommittee Chairman Billy Tauzin (D-La.) introduced H.R. 3282 to ensure the additional navigational equipment would be required on vessels. The Seafarers conducted a study of Coast Guard data from the late 1970s to mid-1991 that revealed the leading cause for a majority (58 percent) of the acci­ dents on inland waterways was human factors. As defined by the Coast Guard, "human factors"in­ clude some of the following categories: bypass of available safety devices, inattention to duty, intoxication—al­ cohol/drugs, calculated risk, care­ lessness, error in judgment, lack of knowledge or training, lack of experience, operator error, fatigue, stress, physical impair­ ment, psychological impairment, failure to comply with rules or regulations, inadequate super­ vision, failure to follow the rules of the road. M---' Agency Reviews Laws As a result of the derailment of the Sunset Limited, Secretary of Transportation Federico Pena or­ dered an intense and complete review of Coast Guard regula­ tions and oversight of the inland marine transportation system. In the review, the Coast Guard studied the adequacy and effec­ tiveness of manning requirements for operators of uninspected towing vessels; history of inci­ dents involving operators of Continued on page 4 DOT Head Outlines Ideas To Make Waterways Safer Due to public attention. Con­ gress has stepped up its efforts to In response to the September Guard will initiate rulemaking to enact H.R. 1915 following the whether all September 22 crash of an Amtrak derailment of the Amtrak train in determine passenger train near Mobile, Ala. Alabama, Secretary of Transpor­ uninspected towing vessels The Sunset Limited derailed and tation Federico Pena directed the should carry radar as well as plunged off a bridge into the Big United States Coast Guard and marine charts. In addition, all Bayou Canot after the towboat the Federal Railroad Administra­ operators will have to attend ap­ MV Mauvilla wandered off tion to review the circumstances proved radar training courses. course into the bayou. The tug, surrounding the accident and • Improve the procedures pushing six barges in a heavy fog, marine safety on the inland water­ whereby information concerning mishaps and collisions is hit the bridge just minutes before ways. the Los Angeles-Miami train Based on the findings of the reported. The Coast Guard will rolled onto the damaged trestle. review, Pena has directed the require that all casualties be Two of the four crewmembers agencies to undertake several in­ reported immediately. Continued on page 4 aboard the Mauvilla did not carry itiatives to minimize the risk of • Seek new means by which the merchant mariner documents. another accident occurring structural integrity of bridges can Only the captain and pilot are re­ similar to the Sunset Limited dis­ be checked and actions taken if damage occurs. quired to hold z-cards even aster on September 22. • Strengthen emergency though all crewmembers have The five areas of regulation as preparedness and enhance the navigation responsibilities. proposed by Pena are: Deep sea and Great Lakes Develop more stringent prospects tor victims' survival if mariners aboard U.S.-flag vessels licensing requirements for a crash occurs. Pena stated that some of these must have merchant mariner operators of uninspected towing documents. To acquire one from vessels. Towboat operators will actions will require regulatory or the Coast Guard, the agency re­ be required to pass simulator tests legislative action while others quires evidence of a drug-free and written examinations each will involve building closer urinalysis, check of the National time they increase the scope of working relationships with Driver Register for drunk driving their licenses. Licensees who Amtrak and other railroads, as or controlled substance violations, lave only minimum basic well as state and local govern­ an FBI criminal record backbond qualifications will be restricted to ments. Meanwhile, the National investigation, proof of U.S. citizen­ those towing configurations, Transportation Safety Board con­ ship or evidence of lawfulentry and sizes and routes they are qualified tinues its investigation into the probable cause of the September permanent residency from the Im­ o operate. migration and Naturalization Ser­ > Upgrade the requirements for accident. The investigation is ex­ vice and proof of employment in radar and navigational equipment pected to be complet^ early this Mobile Family Physicians is located within a halt-mile ot the SIU hall. the industry or evidence of on board such ships. The Coast year. •si-.:; �, „j.r 4 -j/. JANUARY 1994 SEAFARERSLOG PPOs Provide Health Services For Jacksonviiie Seafarers Seafarers and their families in the port of Jacksonville, Fla. have begun, using newly contracted preferred provider organizations (PPOs) in that area. The Seafarers Welfare Plan recently added St. Vincent's Medical Center and Riverside Hospital to its growing list of PPOs. St. Vincent's and River­ side, both located close to the SIU hall in Jacksonville, are affiliated members of the regional St. Vincent's Health System, a St. Vincent's Medical Center in Jacksonville features state-of-the-art multi-facility, non-profit health equipment and the most modem testing procedures. care network. The medical center and hospi­ tal are available to handle many of the medical needs of SIU memberf and their families, from routine health care to more com­ i'S# ' plex treatment, including surgery. However, Seafarers still will receive their annual physicals and other shipping-related treatments (such as testing for benzene ex­ posure) from Dr. Robert DePadua or Dr. Napoleon DePadua, who share a practice in Jacksonville. Tbeir offices are located at 3901 University Blvd. South, Suite 201, and at 1205 Monument Rd., Suite 203. As for the newly contracted PPOs, St. Vincent's Medical Center is a 528-bed, full-service facility specializing in oncology, cardiology, maternity, pul­ monary/asthma and other ser­ vices. Also offering a full range of emergency services, it is lo­ cated at 1800 Barrs St. St. Vincent's is in its 88th year of operation. The hospital also of­ fers inpatient and day treatment psychiatry, as well as or­ thopedics, opthamology, neurosurgery, pediatrics, der­ matology and more. Riverside, located at 2033 Riverside Avenue, is a 183-bed hospital which specializes in primary and secondary care, or­ thopedics and psychia^. It is the primary hospital for the Riverside Clinic, a multi-specialty group practice, and it also provides a full range of emergency, diagnostic and outpatient services. Founded in 1911, Riverside joined the St. Vincent's Health System three years ago. Amtrak Disaster SpaUlDMs SaMy The 17 maternity suites at St. Vincent's were added in late 1992. • 'kf' Mobile Clinic Opens Continued from page 3 24 hours a day. Dr. Kenneth Miller, Seafarers Welfare Plans medical director, said the clinic has a staff repre­ sentative familiar with the oc­ cupational health issues specific to Seafarers. Along with Mobile Family Physicians, the Mobile Infirmary Medical Center also joins the growing list of preferred provider organizations (PPOs) which have contracted with the SIU. Located on Spring Hill Avenue at Louiselle (a short drive from the union hall), the Infirmary Medi­ cal Center is the largest, private, not-for-profit community hospi­ tal in Alabama. The 704-bed facility is noted for its state-ofthe-art equipment and offers spe­ cialized, comprehensive cardiac, neurology and cancer, neurosurgery services. It is staffed by 500 primary and specialty care physicians. In addition to emergency treat­ ment and five intensive care units, the hospital offers: • A complete cancer services division. • A sleep disorders center which assists physicians diagnosing and The Mobile Infirmary Medical Center is staffed by 500 primary and specialty care physicians /.•.//; treating sleep/wake difficulties. • A center for women and children including fetal monitor­ ing, labor and delivery, postpar­ tum, pediatric intensive care and more. • Modem facilities for heart-re­ lated tests and operations. (More than 6,000 open-heart operations, 3,500 balloon angioplasties and 27,000 diagnostic cardiac catheterization procedures have been done there.) • A combination rehab/ health and fitness center offering a mul­ titude of programs. Continued from page 3 uninspected towing vessels; re­ quirements for reporting of marine casualties and hazardous conditions involving vessels; and penalties for failure to report such accidents. The Coast Guard completed its review in early December and issued a report of the agency's conclusions and recommenda­ tions. Based on the findings, the Department of Transportation developed an action plan desired to enhance the safety of the nation's transportation system. Under the proposed regula­ tions, barge crews would be sub­ jected to much tighter licensing and training requirements. In ad­ dition, the Coast Guard would require certain equipment on towboats, including working radar and marine charts. (For more details on the proposed DOT regulations, see story on page 3.) Hearings Seek Cause The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) held three days of public hearings in Mobile to help determine the cause of the Amtrak crash. At the start of the three-day hearing, NTSB Vice Chairperson Susan Coughlin stated laboratory examination of damage to the bridge is consistent with damage to the barges that were part of the Mauvilla, owned by Warrior & Gulf Navigation Company of Chickasaw, Ala. Shortly before the train reached the damag^ bridge and plunged into the water, the towboat pushing the barges had lost its way in fog and reported strik­ ing something in the bayou. On the first day of hearings, the NTSB vice chairperson stated, "The resultant contact be­ tween the barges and the bridge shifted the track sufficiently to cause the lead locomotive to strike the east girder of the through-girder span, leading to the derailment of the Sunset Limited." More than 20 witnesses tes­ tified at the hearing. The captain and pilot (who was in charge of the Mauvilla at the time of the accident) testified that they were lost and confused in fog and early morning darkness. Most of their testimony focused on explaining Why they were lost and why their radio transmissions did not have any mention of the train accident for approximately 15 minutes. Still unanswered after the hearings, investigators said, are several questions including why the pilot approached the bridge head-on even after he saw an image on radar. The pilot acknowledged being unfamiliar with the vessel's radar system and said he was trying to tie up to what he thought was a string of barges in the river when a barge struck the bridge. It was not until he spoke to the bridge atten­ dant that the tugboat pilot realized the vessel had veered off course. The federal panel also was told that other than the radar and a radio, the towboat carried no chart, compass or other naviga­ tional tools. Future Action The NTSB hopes to have a final report on the crash by spring. Action on bills H.R. 1915 and 3282 is expected to resume when Congress returns to Washington this month. Seafarers' List of Health Care Providers Grows Within the past few months, the Seafarers Welfare Plan has designated new preferred provider organizations (PPOs) in the ports of New Bedford, Mass., Jacksonville, Fla. and Mobile, Ala. The addition of these respected medical facilities marks continued progress in PPG care for SIU members and their families, as the welfare plan is contracting with a preferred provider in each of the cities where an SIU clinic previously had been located. The PPG program helps the welfare plan combat spiraling health care costs and also ensures that members and their families have access to quality medical treatment. There are numerous ad­ vantages to using PPGs, such as streamlined claims procedures for members and dependents, as well as more efficient claims monitoring; the health cafe providers' familiarity with the unique heeds of the membership and their families; and the main­ taining of reasonable rates for Seafarers and their dependents. Below is a list of preferred providers currently under con­ tract with the union. SlU-Contracted PPOs (as of January 1994) Baltimore Johns Hopkins Center for Occupa­ tional and Environmental Health 4940 Eastern Avenue Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 550-2322 Honolulu Straub Hospital 888 South King Street. Honolulu, HI 96813 (808)552-4000 Houston Med Place 1 Suite 1605 1315 Calhoun Houston, TX 77002 (713)756-8800 and St. Joseph's Hospital 1919 LaBranch Houston, TX 77002 (713)757-1000 Jackaonville St. Vincent's Medical Center 1800 Barrs Street Jacksonville, FL 32204 (904) 387-7300 and Riverside Hospital 2033 Riverside Avenue Jacksonville, FL 32204 (904) 387-7000 and Drs. Robert and Napoleon DePadua (two locations) 3901 University Blvd. South Suite 201 Jacksonville, FL 32216 (904)391-1260 1205 Monument Rd. Suite 203 Jacksonville, FL 32225 (727-5120) Mobile Mobile Family Physicians 1924-K Dauphin Island Parkway Mobile, AL 36605 (205) 476-6330 and Mobile Infirmary Medical Center 174 Louiselle Street Mobile AL 36607 (205)431-2400 New Orleans, LA 70112 (504) 588-5263 New York Methodist Hospital 506 6th Street Brooklyn, NY 11215 (718)780-3000 Philadelphia Methodist Hospital and Healthmark Incorporated Clinic 2301 South Broad Street Philadelphia. PA 19148 (215)952-9900 San Francisco St. Mary's Hospital 450 Stanyan Street San Francisco, CA 94117 (415)668-1000 Seattle Virginia Mason Hospital 925 Seneca Street Seattle, WA 98111 (206)624-1144 Wilmington Immediate Medical Care Center 29409 S. Western Avenue San Pedro, CA 90731 (310)547-4274 and Torrance Memorial Hospital NewOrteane 3330 Lomita Boulevard Tulane Univ. Hosp. and Medical Ctr. Torrance, CA 90509-2935 1415 Tulane Avenue (310)325-9110 New Bedford St. Luke's Hospital 101 Page Street New Bedford, MA 02740 (508)997-1515 �"•: ".• • • . -• \ SEAFARERSlOG Mimiiri994 As 1993 drew to a close, work was brisk for Seafarers sailing with Crowley Towing and Transportation in the Long Beach, Calif, area. More than 100 SIU members sail for Crowley in that region, which includes the ports of Los Angeles and Wilmington. The tugboat crews handle docking operations for large ships and also move bunker barges and derrick barges, among other wdrk. "I've been with Crowley since '88, and I really like my job," said Chief Cook Willie Rose. "I like the schedule and the fact that we stay busy." Rose and the other Seafarers from Crowley also recently joined SIU Executive Vice President Joseph Saccb and SIU Contracts Department Vice President Augie Tellez for meetings aboard the boats and on the docks. Parts of the meetings focused on legislative issues which directly affect the membership. Sacco and Tellez brought members up-to-date on the Maritime Security and Competitiveness Act (H.R. 2151), as well as other legislation dealing with inland documentation and safety, the Jones Act, cargo preference, upgrading and licensing and other changes in the towing industry, They also discussed other union matters and explained the improvements in members' health care coverage and pensions which were brought about by the contract ratified last year by the membership, "The meeting went very well," said Rose, who joined the Seafarers 14 years ago and has upgraded several times at the Paul Hall Center. Mate Bruno Kalmeta agreed. "It was a positive thing, getting together and exchanging ideas," he said. "And it was great to see Joe and Augie out diere on the boats with us." 5 "V";. . Seafarers aboard the PL Milne conier with SIU Executive Vice President Joseph Sacco and SIU Vice Presi­ dent Contracts Augie Tellez. . VS'- Pictured from left are Port Agent George Tricker, Tankerman Mickey Main, Chief Cook Willie Rose, AB Mel Dibiasi (partially obscured). Engineer Al Citanovich, Augie Tellez, Captain Scott Linsley and Joseph Sacco. „ LEFT Captain if J Ch^ti Thomas ^ ^ ^ makes a point as (from left) Joseph Sacco, Mate Hill ChamCarit^^Quintana listen. AB Steve Wells (left) chats with SIU Executive VP Joseph Sacco. Talking over union matters are AB Mel Dibiasi (left) and SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez. More than tOO Seafarers sail for Crowley in the Long Beach area. From left: Engineer Peso Hrboka, Cook Milo Banicevic, Port Agent George Tricker and AB Carlos Quintana review the new collective bargaining agreement. i- • �•hi- .-.• . \ 6 ' v'"" JANUARY 1994 SEAFARERS LOG AFL-CIO Continues Push for National Hoaith Plan • Providing coverage for evei^ The AFL-CIO's top-piiority come families but which does not plan which would cover al for 1994 is to secure a com­ require citizens to purchase medi­ citizens with a comprehensive U.S. citizen, regardless of their prehensive national health pack­ cal coverage. This plan also benefits package similar to the health or employment status. • Establishing and enforcin age that will address the would tax workers on a number of one contained in the Clinton plan. inequities of those who are in­ the health plans under which they Sponsored by Senator Pau cost limits on private sector sured being hit with the costs of currently are covered. Wellstone (D-Minn.) and Rep. health insurance premiums, as Jim McDermott (D-Wash.), this well as limits on doctor and hospi those who do not have coverage. The AFL-CIO points out that The AFL-CIO has been lobby­ this program would leave many legislation includes components tal fees. These limits would be ing and providing information Americans without health i care. for nursing home care and com­ enforced by either the federal or about the need for a comprehen­ (Currently, almost 39 million munity-based care, with national state government. • Prohibiting health insurance sive national health care system. Americans have no coverage, and and state budgets. firms from denying coverage to The proposed financing for As such, the national federa­ many others are underinsured.) an applicant, or charging exces tion of trade unions has wel­ However, when those citizens are this plan is drastically different sively high premiums, due to an comed the health care plan treated in emergency rooms—the from the president's. With the individual's health condition. presented to Congress by Presi­ most expensive type of service- Health Security Act, the majority • Simplifying paperwork dent Clinton, and created by a the cost would continue being of funds come from employer eliminating waste and cracking committee led by First Lady Hil­ passed on to those who have premiums and the government. down on medical fraud. lary Rodham Clinton, as a first health insurance, in the forms of The Wellstone/McDermott pro­ A number of changes were step toward attaining a national higher premiums and higher de­ gram calls for a 7.9 percent made to the president's initia' system that will bring down the ductibles (reflecting higher payroll tax on employers, as well proposal before it was sent to costs of providing medical hospital billing to compensate for as increases in corporate and per­ Capitol Hill. Most deal with sonal income taxes. It also in­ coverage for all Americans. the cost of indigent care). financing and regulating the plan Alternatives Lacking • A plan put forth by Senator cludes premiums for long-term including: care. With the debate heating up, John Chafee (R-R.I.) and Rep. • A person's or family's max­ Establishes Cost Limits alternative proposals have sur­ Robert Michel (R-Ill.) that calls imum payment toward the cost o President Clinton unveiled his faced. The federation has noted for an individual mandate rather their health care premium woulc that some of these alternative than an employer mandate for plan during a nationally televised percent of income. be 3.9 plans are flawed by not guaran­ providing coverage. This pro­ address in late September, al­ • Patients would have the op­ teeing coverage for every person gram has no limits on premiums though the legislation was not tion of getting health care from or addressing insurance reform. paid by individuals, nor does it presented to Congress until Oc­ jroviders not in their employer's Two plans that the AFL-CIO include a component for long- tober 27. Some of the key points of the lealth alliance. considers to be particularly lack­ term care. In addition, it would • Subsidies would be available delay subsidies for low-income Health Security Act include: ing are: ' Requiring all employers to to employers with up to 75 • A managed competition workers. • Some member unions are provide health insurance to their workers (instead of 50 or fewer proposal that includes some employees). government subsidies for low-in- positive about a Canadian-style employees. Unions Look for Ways to Maintain RenoNts As Medicai Costs and Uninsured increase With news accounts announc­ ing even more Americans without any kind of health insurance, and with medical costs increasing, unions axe working with their con­ tracted companies to find ways of keeping health care costs down. In 1992, an additional 2.3 mil­ lion Americans joined flie ranks of the uninsured, according to the Employee Benefit Research In­ stitute. The increase was greater than the previous two years com­ bined, pointed out the nonpartisan research organization composed of businesses and labor unions. The addition raised the nation­ al figure of uninsured Americans to just under 39 million people. The data revealed that a large reason for the jump came from people working at small com­ panies which had to drop their medical coverage because of the rising cost of health care. Compared with other in­ dustrialized countries, the Unit^ States pays a higher percentage of its gross domestic product (GDP) into health care. While the U.S. was paying approximately 14 percent (or $840 billion of a total $5,978.5 billion) of its GDP in 1992 for health care, other nations like Japan and the United Kingdom were spending barely more than 5 percent of their GDP. • The National Health Board, originally planned as an inde­ pendent agency, instead would function more like a board of directors. Doctors Support Plan Final action on health care may take months or even longer. However, the president's plan in mid-December got a boost when 10 doctor groups representing more than 300,000 physicians came out in support of it. Those groups include the American Academy of Family Physicians, American Academy of Pediatrics, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, American Col­ lege of Physicians, American College of Preventive Medicine, American Medical Women's As­ sociation, American Society of Internal Medicine, American Thoracic Society, National Hispanic Medical Association and the National Medical As­ sociation. i'-T SAB Changes Registration Precedures The Seafarers Appeals Board has amended the shipping rules to allow members to register at their union halls while they are await­ ing the results of their drug tests. SAB Action 368 only changes registration procedures. Mem­ bers still must have proof that they have passed a drug test prior to claiming a job. Augie Tellez, SIU vice presi­ dent for contracts arid contract enforcement, noted that many Seafarers live a great distance from the hall where they register ;o ship. Before this amendment, members could not register until they had proof they had passed the test llie Seafarers Appeals Board is made up of representatives Tom both the SIU and its con­ tracted companies. The action is irinted below in its entirety. insurance. The survey also showed in­ National Heaitii-Care come was not a major determin­ Spending ing factor for identifying those without any health care coverage. of Billions Doliars While not as great as low-income, low-skilled workers, many high income Americans were without insurance. Medical Inflation 11 Percent For years, the AFL-CIO, the During the last five years, national federation of labor medical costs have risen at a rate unions, has called for health care of nearly 11 percent for each of reform within the United States. those years. Meanwhile, the na­ As a whole, trade unionists have tional inflation rate has been the best coverage of any group in much lower. (It is now averaging the nation. about 3 percent annually.) Because the cost of paying for Of the nearly 39 million the uninsured has fallen on the people without sonie form of in­ backs of those with coverage, the surance, the institute noted about SAB Action 368 trend among unions is to preserve '65 '70 '75 '80 '85 '90 6 million were withput employ­ The Seafarers Appeals Board SOURCE: Health Care Rnancing Administration acting under and pursuant to the ment. The remainder held some benefits. In order to continue this vital protection, unions at their kind of a job. Collective Bargaining Agree­ Almost 10 million working members' requests have chosen ment between the Union and the to concentrate contractual gains Since 1980, the amount of money Americans without health care Contracted Employers, various toward benefits. that Americans have spent on are employed by companies that hereby takes the following action. health care has almost tripled, as Maintain Health Coverage employ less than 10 jpeople. Yet, Whereas, seamen are required shown above. For 1992, the last another 7.2 million work for com­ As the cost of health care con­ year calculated, health care cost to pass a pre-hire drug test before panies that have more than 1,000 tinues to escalate, many labor Americans nearly $840 billion. registering for employment, and people on the payroll, but offer no unions around the country are Whereas, the results of the negotiating to make sure mem­ drug test may not be available bers and fteir families maintain from seven (7) to ten (10) days, and health care coverage. Whereas, such delay may be In Kansas, members of the Machinists Union ratified a new costly to seamen who do not live in% contract with Beech Aircraft that in the area providing the drug For medical care increased their contributions to test. the health care plan so they could Therefore, Rule 2 Shipping maintain benefits. Steelworkers Procedure, B 5 shall be amended at Bethlehem plants in Maryland, fy deleting subsection (b), Indiana and New York raised the redesignate subsection (c) as sub­ from ® deductibles they will pay for section (b) which shall read as preceding 4 themselves and their dependents ^allows. to maintain coverage. (b) Effective August 16, 1993, period Some unions are using other no seaman shall be shipped to a methods to retain their existing contracted vessel without having level of benefits. Bakery Workers passed the pre-hire drug test pur­ with the Continental Baking Com­ suant to U.S. Coast Guard pany at 16 East Coast and Midwest regulation (CGD-86 067) (46 '83 '84 '85 '86 '87 '88 '89 '90 '91 '92 '93* locations switched from a fee-for GFR 4, 5 & 16), except those service plan to managed care in seamen possessing permanent •Figure for 12 months SOURCE: Bureau of Labor Statistics ended Aug. 31,1993. order to fight increasing costs. status aboard a specific vessel Electrical Workers for Raytheon in and are returning to the same The rate of inflation for health care has run well above the overall national inflation index since 1983. Massachusetts also elected to use vessel in the same job classifica­ a managed care system. tion. These increasing costs have made health care unaffordable to almost 40 million Americans. 'WtS •M Changes in Consumer Prices • 't ' �.... . . • . . " •. -• ; . • •'.•.• ';C' •; \W.JANUARY 1994 SEAFARBKLOe 7 AB Nelson Recounts Year on Kane s'- - - PS' Editor's note: AB Carl Nel­ son, Jr. sent thefollowing article, which recounts highlights from the past year aboard the USNS Kane, along with the accompany­ ing photographs to the Seafarers LOG. The past year was filled with interesting tasks combined with some unusual happenings for the ladies and gentlemen aboard the Kane. The vessel is operated by Bay Ship Management and has a very capable SIU crew to keep her run­ ning smoothly. In July wehad the honor of hosting the National Geographic Society's annual Project Marco Polo. This is an out-of-the-ordinary program designed to provide about a dozen high school students and their teachers an opportunity to leam about oceanography, foreign cultures and geography. • NN ..vie---- Last year the lucky students also were well-instructed in the art of knot-tying and other deck department duties by Bosun Chris Brady. The ports of call for the Na­ tional Geographic Project were Naples, Italy; Malta, located just south of Italy; and Tunisia, which borders Algeria and Libya. Toward the end of September the Kane was on her way through Istanbul, Turkey and fte Black Sea (by invitation) to visit Romania. The vessel was one of the first Military Sealift Com­ mand (MSC) ships to dock there since the start of the post-com­ munist era in the former Soviet Union. The crew was warmly received by the Romanians, and many enjoyed a fascinating trip into Transylvania, The most recent of the Kane's contributions toward maintaining positive foreign relations was a training exercise for the Tunisian navy. Several SIU members volunteered to go aboard the Tunisian research vessel Salambo (formerly the USNS DeSteiguer) to offer instruction and demonstrate the proper use of the ship's machinery and equipment. The Seafarers involved were Bosun Brady, ABs Jeff Focardl and James Saunders and Chief Electrician Joe Jenkins. The com­ mander of the Tunisian navy also was on board for the exercise. Aboard the Tunisian research vessel Sa/ambo, formerly the USNS During our stay, the Tunisians DeSteiguer, are (from left) AB Jeff Focardl, Chief Electrician Joe provided our crew with a tour of Jenkins, AB Jim Saunders and Bosun C.E. Brady. the remote but magnificent ruins of Dougga. The USNS Kane is scheduled to wrap up 1993 in Piraeus, Greece. That is where we will spend the Christmas holidays. All in all, it has been a good year! Kt ''•mXi jaaiiaiNi, , rrvY- During a retirement party for OMU Wlllard Muggins aboard the USNS Kane, he Is presented with a leather briefcase by Captain P. Murphy. " •• , "; .. •' , :_ "'^r' • .A Congress to Tackle Ship BUI Continued from page 2 When he introduced the legis­ lation, Rep. Billy Tauzin (D-La.) noted pre iminary investigations into the Mobile accident had shown the tug was not equipped with charts, a compass and otiier navigational tools. He also pointed out that the vessel's pilot had stated he was not famihar with how to read the boat's radar. The USNS Kane hosted students as part of a National Geographic project In 1993. Continue Export Ban Separate bills that will con­ tinue to restrict indefinitely the exportation of Alaska oil from the trans-Alaska pipeline are before both branches of Congress. S. 1265, introduced by Senator Patty Murray (D-Wash.), is pending before the Senate Banking Com­ mittee. H.R. 2670, offered by Representative Maria Cantwell, is awaiting action by the House Foreign Affairs Committee. Last year. President Clinton signed a bill that extended the ban on exporting Alaska oil until June 30,1994. Because the oil only can be transported to a domestic refinery, it is covered by the Jones Act. (That 1920 legislation limits the movement of cargo between two U.S. ports to Americancrewed, American-built and American-owned vessels.) The SIU will continue to monitor these and other bills that will affect the U.S.-flag merchant marine. 1 Vrt'ii" / Orgulf Seafarers Continue Sailing Despite Waterways' Winter Closing ing in late December. Despite the fact that Orgulf tugs continue to work, the Army Corps of Engineers has started the process of closing the Missouri and upper Mississippi rivers for the winter. On Time Closing For the first time since 1988, the corps shut down the Missouri on the traditional closing date of Grabbing lunch In the galley of the Jim Ludwig are Deckhands December 1. High waters remain­ Vanceno Rush (left) and Adam Shacknal. ing from the summer flooding al­ lowed tugs and barges to move on the river until the time of closure. Drought conditions during the previous years had forced traffic off the river before the December 1 date. Traffic also was cut off on the upper Mississippi north of Rock Island, 111. on December 12. The corps is planning to re-open the river to long-distance tugs and barge movements on March 1, weather and river conditions per­ mitting. Traffic along the lower Mis­ sissippi continues year-round, unless weather and river condi­ tions warrant a temporary clos­ Lead Deckhand David PItchford Is ready to haul In the lines as the Jim Taking care of some union business Is Deckhand Kenneth Marshall. ing. Lucfw/g leaves Moore's Landing. Seafarers sailing aboard Or­ gulf Transportation tugboats con­ tinue to see plenty of action along the Mississippi River and its tributaries as the new year begins. Thanks to a very mild fall and early winter, none of the water­ ways where the tugs and barges sail have been affected by icing conditions. The vessels continue i-/': to haul coal, sand, stone, scrap iron and whateverelse needs to be transported. "Things continue to go well for the fleet," noted St. Louis Port Agent Joe Sigler, shortly after servicing the towboat/im Ludwig at Moore's Landing, Mo. He added that nearly the whole fleet of Orgulf vessels were still work- • r- • �8 JAHUARY1994 SEAFARERS LOG Great Lakes Seafarers Gempleie Another Successful Sailing Season "These factors have ultimately but have had afternoons that have contributed to the success of this remained in the forties," Kelley noted. year's sailing season." According to Kelley, sevefa According to Nekvasil, during the 1992 navigational season SlU-contracted cement carriers (which runs from early March to arid tugboats, such as the Hannah mid or late January), 105.7 mil­ tugs, operate during most of the lion tons of cargo were winter months on the lower lakes transported on the Lakes. The He noted one tug will serve as an cargo included cement, iron ore, icebreaker for another that pushing cargo. coal and gypsum. Most SlU-crewed vessels do In 1993, there were 97.7 mil­ lion tons of cargo transported not see action in the winter. Despite along the Great Lakes from the the unusually mild weather, the beginning of the sailing season companies are calling ships in for through November. "There is their seasonal layup. Vessels that had tied up for the every indication that December and January's figures will bring winter by late December include the total figure to what it was last the Crapp, an Inland Lakes year. To have a shipping season Management vessel; the St. Clair, hold even figures such as these is an American Steamship Com­ a great accomplishment," Nek­ pany vessel; and Kinsman Lines vasil told a re'porter from the vessels, the Kinsman Independent and Kinsman Enterprise. Seafarers LOG. Although original plans listed Despite a few mild snow flur­ ries, cold weather has not been a many American Steamship Com­ factor on any of the Lakes. Byron pany vessels as being laid up by Kelley, SIU vice president for the the end of December, the com­ Great Lakes, stated all of the pany is keeping the American waters still were navigable in late Mariner, American Republic, Buffalo, Indiana Harbor, Sam December. For AB/Watchman Mike "The weather has been truly Laud, Walter J. McCarthy and the Bensman, it is work as usual remarkable. We are used to freez­ H. Lee White sailing until midaboard the Sam Laud. ing days and wind chill factors January, when a tentative date for Sailing on the Great Lakes will come to a close this month, bring­ ing the season to a successful finish after a year of good weather and continuous shipping. "The weather has cooperated and cargo demand has con­ tinued," noted Glenn Nekvasil of the Great Lakes Carrier Associa­ tion, which monitors the action of U.S.-flag shipping on the Lakes. Saved Mariner in Tampa Bay Boatman Tanner Honored for Heroism Seafarer Richard Tanner recently was honored for his alertness and quick actions which on April 16 of last year helped save Ae life of a fellow mariner. Tanner, 70, received an Ad­ miral of the Ocean Sea Award from the United Seamen's Ser­ vice in October. The awards are presented to American seamen and boatmen for acts of heroism in the line of duty. Tanner was one of a number of merchant mariners who were honored, although he was unable to attend the ceremony in New York due to an operation (from which he is recovering nicely). Maritime Administrator Albert Herberger presented the awards. Senator John Breaux (D-La.) and Niels Johnsen, chairman of Waterman Steamship's parent In­ ternational Shiphplding Corpora­ tion, also were recognized for Seafarer Richard Tanner's quick their efforts in behalf of the U.S. actions saved a fellow mariner. maritime industry. Above, Tanner works on barge where he pulled the man to safety. Fled Burning Tug Tanner was working aboard the Sheridan Transportation tug­ rough chop on the bay about oneboat Ocean Star in Tampa Bay, quarter of a mile, although he Fla. on April 16 when he and his reportedly did not realize the fellow crewmembers spotted barge was there. Instead, he simp­ trouble on another nearby tug, the ly was trying toget away from the Beverly Anderson. The Anderson burning tug. Tanner raced back up to the was on fire, so the Ocean Star top of the barge, secur^ some headed toward it in order to aid lines and then climbed down to the crew. the water. He grabbed Bodden But Tanner stayed behind on a and brought him to safety, then Sheridan barge in order to serve used a flashlight to signal the as a lookout. That decision may have saved the life of Stephen Ocean Star. By then, the Ocean Bodden, the engineer from the Star had taken aboard the rest of the Anderson's crew all of Anderson. At approximately 10:30 p.m.. whom thought Bodden had Tanner heard splashing near the perished. While the Sheridan tug barge. He quickly descended the returned to its barge. Tanner gave side of the barge 35 feet to the his shirt to Bodden to warm him. water, where he spotted Bodden "I just stayed and talked with him swimming toward shore. to calm him down," Tanner Bodden had suffered third-de­ recalled a few months after the gree bums covering a third of his incident. body and, unbeknownst to his Soon Bodden was flown by shipmates, had jumped over­ helicopter to a nearby hospital. board. He swam through the while the Ocean Star carried the other survivors to port. Small World The American Republic is one vessel that continued transporting cargo into the new year. closing the Soo Locks has been announced. Kelley noted with vessels just laying up, no word has been relayed on when fitout will begin. Traditionally, crewmembers begin reporting to their vessels in March and April, depending on the weather, vessel's location and cargo. Moran Tug Members Approve New Contract Seafarers who sail with Moran Towing in Maryland and Pen­ nsylvania approved a new con­ tract that will increase benefits for members who sail aboard the company's 11 tugboats which operate in the Chesapeake Bay and the Delaware River. The new pact will provide im­ proved medical and pension benefits and working conditions into 1996. The SlU-crewed tugs are responsible for general harbor work and use their 1,800 to 3,700 horsepower engines to bring tankers, containerships, general cargo and fruit vessels in and out of Aeir individual piers. Although most of the SIUcrewed Moran tugs in Philadel­ phia and Baltimore stay in the Delaware and the Chesapeake, some are called on to assist vessels sailing through the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal, thereby eliminating the need to travel around the Delmarva (Delaware, Maryland and Vir­ ginia) peninsula. The union represents the mates and deckhands aboard the 11 tugs and machinists who work in the Philadelphia Moran shop. The tugboats include the Carolyn, H.C. Jefferson, Reedy Point, Swells Point, Wagner Point, Cape Helopen, Cape Romain, Georgia Moran, Grace Moran, Hawkins Point and Cape May. Bodden later contacted Tanner to thank him and advise him that he was recovering well. Tanner's wife, Ruth, and Bodden's mother also met by chance following the rescue. "She plays bingo at the same place I go to," Ruth Tanner recently told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG. "I didn't know her, but I heard her telling the story (about the incident on the barge) and I said, 'Wait a minute! My husband just saved someone on a barge!' We talk all the tiirie now." Mrs. Tanner added that her husband of 30 years is scheduled for a follow-up operation early this year which hopefully will allow him to make a full recovery. "He just put in for retirement, though, and I can't get used to him being home all the time," Mrs. Tanner said with a laugh. "He's feeling better lately, and he's pacing the floors. Make sure you tell everyone he misses the Drewmernbers on the GraceMoran, above, and other Moran Towing 'ugboats in Maryland and Pennsylvania approved a new contract. boats!" 5-Year Mew York Tugboat Strike Mean End Local 333 Seeks SetUement wHh Other Companies Striking tugboat and barge workers from Local 333 of the United Marine Division of the Intemational Longshoremen's Association last month reached a partial settlement which includes $4.7 million in back pay and the reinstatement of 161 members by the company, Bouchard Transportation of New York. Bouchard's calls in 1988 for the workers to take 65-percent pay cuts prompted the strike, which lasted for more than five years. But now that a new, threeyear contract has been reached, Ae 161 workers will regain the jobs that had been taken over by scab replacements when the strike began. Letters already have been sent to the striking union members informing them that they can retum to work for the company. In addition, part of the collective bargaining agreement stipulates that all new employees will be hired from Local 333. The union also is hopeful of reaching settlements with five other companies in the New York area, where more than 1,000 of its other members also have been on strike since February 16,1988. A federal judge reinstated those members within months after the start of the strike, but litigation concerning that order has crept through the courts, leaving the members out of work. MTD Backs Strikes The Maritime Trades Depart­ ment (MTD) has supported Local 333 in these efforts from the begin­ ning of the strike. The MTD, cpmprised of 42 unions representing more than 8 million workers, passed several resolutions during the past five years backing the United Marine Division in its fight to obtain a contract with fair working conditions. �JANUARY1994 SEAFARERS LOG New Regs Reguiie EPA-Agproved Refrigerant Certiffcation Piney Point to Offer Courses for Engine Department Seafarers •y^.\: /'vri., .-i'r r-'V*4, •fe." y.r-'-?' •'"V t, vi";.S;i' •-• ^l' v''".' ; v o," The Paul Hall Center for from the Lundeberg School— School. All Seafarers involved in Maritime Training and Education J.C. Wiegman, Barney Kane and the repair and servicing of has completed the first steps in Eric Malzkuhn—^recently passed refrigeration equipment must ob­ getting Environmental Protection an EPA exam for Refrigerant tain certification before the Agency (EPA) approval for cer­ Certified Technicians. By pass­ November deadline. tifying Seafarers involved in the ing theexam, they are qualified to Besides requiring that air con­ repair and servicing of refrigera­ teach the use and repair of ditioning and refrigerant tech­ tion equipment. refrigerant recovery systems, ac­ nicians obtain certification In accordance with new cording to the new federal through an EPA-approved testing federal regulations, anyone in­ guidelines. organization, the final rule has volved in the repair and servicing A recovery system removes foflr other main elements which of refrigeration equipment must refrigerant from a refrigeration require: that technicians servicing pass an EPA-approved course by system and then stores it in an and disposing of air conditioning November 14,1994. This affects outside container. This prevents or refrigeration equipment ob­ Seafarers who sail in the engine refrigerant, which contains serve prescribed practices aimed department. ozone-depleting compounds, at reducing emissions; that Following the EPA's issuance from escaping into the air. refrigerant recycling and of the final regulations promul­ recovery equipment, as well as Four Categories gated under Section 608 of the refrigerant reclaimers, be cer­ Clean Air Act, the Paul Hall Cen­ The EPA has established the tified in accordance with EPAter updated its curriculum and ap­ following categories of tech­ Lundeberg School instructors (from left) J.C. Wiegman, Eric Malzkuhn approved standards; that leaks of plied to the EPA for approval as a nician certification: Type I, for and Barney Kane are certified to teach Seafarers the new EPA refrigerant be repaired; and that certified refrigerant testing servicing small appliances (such regulations affecting repair and servicing of refrigeration equipment. ozone-depleting refrigerant com­ facility. The Paul Hall Center also as pantry refrigerators and water pounds in appliances, machines applied to have all SIU halls ap­ coolers); Type 11, for servicing or will be available to SIU members courses. Further details including and other goods be removed from proved as certified testing disposing of high-pressure ap­ depending upon which level o; start-up dates will be available those items prior to their disposal. facilities, due to the fact that the pliances (for example, a ship's technician certification they seek, through the school and will be Seafarers Harry Lundeberg stores reWgeration plant); Type and also with consideration oi published in the Seafarers LOG School of Seamanship plans to III, for servicing or disposing of their previous refrigerant as soon M the school receives have a mobile training team of low-pressure appliances (such as recovery training, noted Wieg EPA clearance. instructors visiting each hall. The following individuals will the centrifugal air conditioning man. For example, the Lundeberg The union anticipates a plants found on passenger ships); School will offer one-, three- anc be required to go through the cer­ response from the EPA possibly and Type IV, for servicing all five-day technician certification tification process: • Students enrolled in the as soon as this month. types of equipment (Universal). progratns—both separately and In addition, three instructors Different courses and tests as part of otherengine department Lundeberg School's Refrigera­ tion Operation and Maintenance course. • Students enrolled in the Refrigerated Container Course. • NewQMEDs. • QMEDs returning to the Lundeberg School for other John Thompson and Michae specialty courses or other training Presser recently became the firsi who previously have not been Seafarers to complete the new certified. Confined Space Entry Per­ • All persons holding the mit/Safe Rescue course at the refrigeration engineer endorse­ Paul Hall Center for Maritime ment. Training and Education. Upon certification, a member Seafarers involved in repair and They were joined by seven will receive an EPA card (includ­ servicing refrigeration equip­ employees from Steuart ing an ID number) that will be ment mustof be EPA-certified by Petroleum in completing the 35issued through the Lundeberg November 14,1994. hour course and receiving cer­ tification from the Occupational Safety and Health and Ad­ ministration (OSHA). New OSHA regulations re­ quire such training for some shoreside workers, but not for merchant seamen or shipyard Seamen attending the voca­ scheduled for later this year. Ses­ workers. However, instructors at tional training courses at the Paul sion II begins on May 9 and lasts the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg Hall Center may elect to take until July 1, while Session IB is School of Seamanship pointed Two SIU members and seven employees from Steuart Petroleum classes in the evening which are scheduled to start on September out that Seafarers routinely must completed the new Confined Space class. They are (from left, kneel­ designed to enhance their 12 and end November 4. These enter and or work in confined ing) Byran Cummings (instructor), Ron Langley, (standing) Steuart proficiency in areas related to the sessions will include a wider spaces, and therefore stand to Petroleum employees Jerry Cutchember, Buzzy Higgs, Ray Goddard, maritime industry. range of courses and will be of­ benefit from the new elective Richard Pilkerton, Joe Tumer, Casey Taylor (instructor). Seafarer Walk-in registration for the fered during the day and in the courses. Michael Presser and Recertified Bosun John Thompson. first session of college classes evening. To register, send in the Another class, entitled 24will be conducted in the Training application found on page 23 of It requires that supervisors or and Recreation Center lobby on the LOG. hour Confined Space Entry Per­ other employees be able to deter­ January 10 and 11 from 4 p.m. mit, also has been added. It is one Unique Opportunity mine if a hazard exists in the.con­ until 8 p.m. Classes begin on prerequisite to the Safe Rescue The evening classes are avail­ course. CPR and first aid are the fined space, and if so, that they are January 12 and will continue until able to Seafarers during their free March 4. able to seal off the problem and others. Session I will include the fol­ time while they are upgrading at get it under control. It also calls "It's absolutely worthwhile. lowing general education courses the school. They provide a unique for training that will enable I've been working in confined opportunity to receive college which will prepare students for workers to execute a rescue of a spaces all my life, and I certainly picked up a lot of useful informa­ person or persons who are other academic courses required credits while improving seafaring tion," stated Thompson, a recer­ trapped in a horizontal, vertical or >y the degree programs at the skills. The Lundeberg School offers Lundeberg School: tified bosun who sails aboard diagonal confined space. • English 099 (Developmen­ two Associate of Applied Science The Lundeberg School cur­ LNG ships. "I would recommend degrees: Marine Engineering these courses to every Seafarer." riculum features classroom tal Writing) • Math 099 (Developmental Technology for members of the The courses will be imple­ studies and hands-on training engine department, and Nautical mented in the school's new tanker with air-monitoring equipment, Mathematics II) • Reading 099 (Analytical Science Technology for members familiarization class later this protective clothing and breathing of the deck department. year, in accordance with the gear, ventilators and more. In the Reading and Reasoning) In addition to these courses- (Seafarers who sail in either of recently approved standard most recent class, the training freightship and tanker agreement. vessel Bull Shepard was used for all of which are offered on a Mon­ Abse departments and who have day-Wednesday of Tuesday- upgraded at the Lundeberg various drills. Hands-On Training "I thought it was an excellent Thursday basis—the Academic School already have earned credit The OSHA reguiation (29 course," Thompson said."It brings Department will schedule com- toward a degree.) '• The dat^s for the eight-week CFR 1910.46) which prompted you up to date on the latest technol­ )uter workshops for evening ccjllege sessions coincide with the the creation of the courses defines ogy, general safety procedures and lours. schedules for many of the voca­ Two more sessions of collegeThe new course Includes plenty of a combined space as a small area manners of communication. It's level, academic courses are tional classes. not normally used by employees. very worthwhile." "d'. Confined Space Courses Added To Lundeberg School Curriculum Evening College on Tap For Upgraders at Center hands-on training. Silll T, ,V'.- '5 111 ,';g' :-S'- a ^ .;V- V /•>?• : 7. ..W . I: I I.. !• • •'7'' �T-: rz,-;r: 10 JANUARY 1994 SEAFARERS LOG SIU-Manned Survey Vessel Sets New Record AB Dennis Hurley operates the ship's hydrographic winch and "L' frame. Assisting oceanographer Jan Sommers (right) in launching the optics probe is AB Jim Souci. eafarers aboard the USNS Wilkes continue to do an outstanding job, thus allowing the scientists on the oceanographic vessel to perform their jobs at a record pace, notes Chief Mate Fred Small wood. The ship's officer provided the Seafarers LOG with photographs and in­ formation about the Wilkes' latest project of conducting CTD drops. CTD drops are the lowering of survey equipment to the bottom of the ocean floor to determine the ocean's conductivity and temperature as a function of depth. (The term "CTD" takes its initials from conductivity, temperature and depth.) The Wilkes set a new record for itself when it amassed data following 187 CTD drops in the Yellow Sea between Korea arid China. The previous record for CTD drops was set in 1992. Smallwood noted that crewmembers supported the research projects in Oc­ tober and November through round-the-clock activity. The entire operation went without a hitch with the exception of one 12-hour period when fierce weather made the overboard drops unsafe. Besides the CTD drops, scientists studied the sea's optical characteristics as well as bioluminescence (the emission of visible light by living organisms such as various fish, fungi and bacteria in the area). He praised the deck department, led by Bosun Jerry Hill, for their work assisting the over-the-side evolutions. He noted fine meals were prepared daily by Chief Steward Kevin Dougherty and the rest of the galley gang. Sm^lwood added that the engine department provided propulsion, electri­ cal power and carefully monitoredTRfe ship's gas turbine generator which was n^j^ed for the use of the bow thruster. Mates on watch on the bridge used the ttoster at each of the many stations where data were gathered in order to maintain the ship's head precisely. Smallwood stated "something new every day" was phrase used more than once aboard the Wilkes, where the challenges of deploying a variety of oceanographic arrays kept the voyages interesting. The Wilkes, owned by the Military Sealift Command (MSC) and operated by Bay Ship Management, is a Naval Oceanographic Office vessel which operates throughout the Pacific Ocean. Data collected through the CTD drops are valuable to oceanographers in their quest for greater understanding of the oceans and their characteristics. The Wilkes operates from the port of Sasebo, Japan and will continue to sail in the western Pacific in the near future. S OS John McClinton mans the hydrographic winch on the vessel's deck. Regular work continues on the Wilkes as Bosun Jerry Hill (right) splices new ropes in the ship's port lifeboat with the assistance of AB Jim Souci. •'••'it OMU Greg Jones washes up after Burnishing a winch part on the wire wheel in the ship's a long day of work. machine shop is QMED Warren Redick. AB "Stan" Stanfield recovers the optics probe from over the side of the W/Zkes. a-- j*'• •' �JANUARY 1994 SEAFARERSLOG 11 Seafarers Grave Fierce Seas to Save InUonesian Seaman Seafarers aboard the LNG Leo battled nightfall and 15- to 20foot seas to save the life of an Indonesian seaman who, like 27 others aboard an Indonesianflagged freighter, was forced to abandon ship on November 27 off the coast of China. The Dasa Tujuh was en route from Yeew, Mdaysia to Kaohsiung, China with a cargo of logs when it sank. The crew aban­ doned the vessel when it began to list in rough seas. In all, 18 crewmembers were rescued by various ships on the scene. The body of one deceasec crewmember also was recovered eight others were unaccounted for. Second Mate Raymond Beyler and Captain N.M. Smith provided the Seafarers LOG with details o; the rescue. Discovery Crewmembers Rescue Cuban Emigrants Crewmembers provide the refugees with pienty of water, food and friendship following their harrowing ordeal at sea. C . ;.y •• '• disabled. We assured them we were close by and on our way." AB Jeff Chicklas reported seeing a red light that resembled a distress flare about 10 degrees off the starboard bow. Captain Smith altered the vessel's course toward the flare ,and ordered crewmembers to post extra lookouts and begin preparations to lower the lifeboat. The rescue crew was made up of Beyler, Third Assistant En­ gineer Brian Brewer, AB Jack Pegram Jr., AB George Keblis and QMEDs Jeffrey Yarmola and Michael DiAngelo. The crew proceeded toward the Dutch ship while calling out in the hope that survivors would be able to signal back so the res­ cuers could find them in the dark waters. "The waves were cresting over our heads at times and 1 tried to be careful not to get caught broad­ side by one," Beyler said. We were being tossed around like a wood chip in the seas." The captain directed the lifeboat crew toward the port side of the Poolgracht where screams were heard by a Leo rescue team member. AB Pegram, who was on the bow, said he could hear a man calling for help when the lifeboat was 20 yards away. Rescued on First Try "1 was fortunate enough to bring the boat right alongside of him the first try, and he was pulled into the lifeboat," Beyler stated. "He had on a life jacket but no light or whistle and was cling­ ing to a life ring that was in bad shape. In addition, he was holding on to a.small gallon-sized plastic container for support." After picking up the In­ donesian seaman, the crew motored the lifeboat around the area, periodically shifting into neutral to stop and listen for addi­ tional calls for help. Several times the lifeboat struck logs floating from the sunken freighter's cargo. The crew maneuvered the lifeboat closer to the Poolgracht and searched the area off the port side. Beyler said nothing was spotted but logs and more debris. The lifeboat then passed close to the bow and moved down the starboard side and around the stem. The lifeboat crew headed back toward the Leo, and Beyler tried to position the boat for retrieval by the rescuing ship. "We bailed out of the boat, soaked, tired and sore but very happy. All seven of us," Beyler concluded At 1 a.m., after consulting with the masters of the Poolgracht and Eagle Wave, another ship assist­ ing in the rescue. Captain Smith made the decision to call off the search. "It was the general con­ sensus that it was unlikely that anyone in the water since 1:30 p.m., when the vessel was aban­ doned, was still alive and had Uttle chance of being seen or recovered in the worsening weather condi­ tions," wrote Captain Smith. very happy," Negron said. "They thought they were going to die out there. We gave them water slowly so that they didn't get sick from drinking too fast and a nice, nutritious meal." The refugees took showers, while their clothes were being washed.' Some crewmembers donated clothes to those survivors whose clothes were torn and weather beaten. Crewmembers aboard the "There was a mother, father President Jefferson bravely en­ and a daughter among the group. dured dark and stormy seas to res­ All were on their way to Horida cue 12 seamen after their vessel, to families who were expecting a Panamanian-flagged log car­ them," he said. rier, foundered and capsized off "We just treated Ihem like nor­ the coast of Japan. According to mal crewmembers. We gave them reports sent to die Seafarers LOG all separate rooms and cooked by American President Lines, the great meals for them. Before they 16-man crew of the MV Success got off the ship in San Juan and was forced to abandon ship in two immigration authorities took them life rafts on the evening of into custody, they asked for a pic­ November 19. ture of the crew. They were veiy The captain of the President gratefiil," Negron recall^. Jefferson notified thecrew that he Anthohy Negron is a second had received an emergency mes­ generation Seafarer. His father. sage from Nagoya sea patrol con­ Bosun Cruz Negron, joined the cerning the sinking log carrier Seafarers in 1942 and sailed for and ordered the crew to begin res­ 32 years. cue preparations as well as secure Crewmembers aboard the President Jefferson braved rough seas to Negron joined the union in the ship for turning in the heavy join in the rescue of seamen from a capsized Panamanian log carrier off the coast of Japan. The Jefferson brought 12 to safety. 1978 after successfully complet­ weather. ing the trainee program at the The Jefferson was the sixth sides to pick up the survivors. comforted and given first aid by Harry Lundeberg School of vessel to arrive. "With no com­ "Very rough seas with up to the crewmembers. The captain Seamanship in Piney Point, Md. mand and control vessel on the i20-foot swells caused by the high noted in his report that each crewHe has since upgraded several scene, vessels were searching the winds and rain caused us to lose member aboard the Jefferson put times at the Lundeberg School. area on various courses and our angle, and a second approach forth every effort to bring the sur­ The QMED noted he has sailed speeds which made risk of colto the survivors became neces­ vivors safely aboard. Once on aboard several LNG ships ision in the existing heavy deck, they were assisted by every sary," the ship's log noted. (Aquarius, Aries and Libra) on weather conditions high," the The President Jefferson^nst department of the ship. which he took part in rescues. captain wrote. "We moved out recovered two men clinging to a His brother, Joseph, also a A few of the survivors had to QMED, has even been his room­ fom the clustered vessels and life ring and one riding in a life be carried in litters while another mate while upgrading at the Lun­ started an east-we^ search grid." raft. The vessel continued search­ was thought to have a broken leg deberg School. The brothers both "Already, three men had been ing and recovered nine more men which was splinted by the crew. have the same endorsements. recovered by the vessel Heisei. from a second life raft. The cap­ The steward department made up )^ile Negron sails from Puerto The Jefferson posted lookouts tain stated that the logs were so of SlU members, provided the Rico, Joseph claims New York as who were instmcted to search for densely concentrated and the sea survivors with warm blankets and debris, lights or flares. An AB so rough that the crew was unable washed their clothes. About mid­ his home port. soon spotted a red flare, and the to maneuver either the ship or the night they were fed soup and Negron's youngest brother, vessel changed course to proceed rafts away from the massive logs sandwiches. Raymond, recently graduated to the lights in the water. in the water. At one point, one from the Piney Point t^nee pro­ As the vessel maneuvered up­ Besides the galley gang, the survivor became trapped between gram in November and is currently wind of the first lights, it became two logs: Later he was trapped members of Jefferson's unsailing on his first SlU ship. "We have always been a surrounded by 20-foot teak logs. between another log and the ves­ licenced crew is composed of the Seafarer family and I hope that Crewmembers heard shouts and sel itself. The crew finally was SlUNA-affiliated Sailors' Union we will continue to be men who whistles from the° water and able to get a line around him and of the Pacific in the deck depart­ The Cuban refugees paddle their love the sea and the union," he began rigging cargo nets, pilot hoist him aboard. ment and Marine Firemen's boat to the side of the Discovery. concluded. adders and man ropes over the The 12 men recovered were Union in the engineroom. Seafarers aboard theSea-Land Discovery recently rescued 10 Cuban refugees who had been adrift at sea for two days after their boat ran out of fuel. Crewmembers aboard the Dis­ covery spotted an object in the water far in the distance after leaving the port of Jacksonville, Fla. en route to San Juan. "We circled the boat two times before the refugees began waving an orange life jacket in the air and we knew it was a boat full of people who needed help. They were afraid at first because they did not know who we were or why we were circling," QMED An­ thony Negron told a reporter from the Seafarers LOG. "I was on deck checking the reefers when we began circling them,"he added. According to Negron and writ­ ten reports from the ship's minutes, once the vessel came close enough to the small boat, the refugees paddled to the ship and crewmembers threw down lines so they could tie up along side the ZJwcove/y. "They had been without food and water for over two days," Negron noted. "The only thing they had going for them was that they were wearing hats to protect themselves from the sun." After the QMED tested the power of the gangway, it was lowered and all 10 Cubans safely came aboard the ship. "They were l:^FyF% About 6:48 p.m., Ca[%in Smith received a distress message from Kaosiung radio that the Dasa Tujuh had abandoned ship earlier that day. The Leo was ap­ proximately 20 miles north of the vessel's last known location. The Leo issued an alert to other ships in the area, and a Dutch vessel, the Poolgracht, called back to report it was approximately five miles from the freighter and would quickly be at Ae scene. Several other vessels also responded to the distress call and assisted in the rescue of crewmembers. "The weather at this time was very windy with approximately 15- to 20-foot seas from the north to northeast," Beyler wrote in a detailed account of the rescue to ihc Seafarers LOG. "There had been occasional patches of rain, but it had cleared and the visibility was very good with a full moon and partly cloudy skies." Maintains Radio Contact The Leo maintained radio con­ tact with the Poolgracht, which reported it had fqund lights, people and debris floating in the water and was going to put its lifeboat over. "When we were approximate­ ly seven miles from the Poolgracht," Beyler recalled, "we received a radio message that it had recovered two men — one alive and the other dead. They said there were others that they could see and hear, but the lifeboat had struck one of the numerous floating logs and was yj - yy v-.. '4'-" V. President Jefferson Plucks 12 From Capsized Ship Near Japan br'v.'!'- > > ' / / y y A. •. ''- " --V'v ;•% • •'M'y. : -Ji ' . .'ijh : ' �^ ••/,';(•* V/'.' ••• •^'•. t s . ..V ;.-f^V3''^M{'-0k^V,y'-'y'' '•:'y•V:•(--• y't-' • •.V-U'VK-K. •Vfft'M, .;r./T<^'>S'''.-r .V •>«; r"^ -f-Vkf ZZ:'Z. •••j\r 12 ••' .''-':Li\«i^i."' SEAFARERS LOG MUARY1994 1 I •r I b'•"•..< >• . I ''i '' • ' "*i ^ '•;'••'*• _'%f •• EW job opportunities, contractual gains and a strong push for maritime legislation capped the ac­ tivities of the SIU in 1993. The union contributed significantly to the fight for maritime revitalization and took part in many other legislative battles. They manned U.S.-flag ships around the globe, obtained contracts which provide for gains and job security, and continued with their commitment to ensure that American merchant seamen are the best-trained in the World. These well-trained SIU mem­ bers repeatedly demonstrated their skill and bravery in numerous rescues which took place all over the world, answer­ ing the distress calls of mariners no matter the weather or sea con­ ditions. The Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education updated and expanded its cur­ riculum, provided many specially designed courses for member companies and remained a step ahead of the industry's everchanging needs. The SIU last year also joined with other maritime unions in fighting the Coast Guard-im­ posed work tax on mariners' documents and licenses. That battle is ongoing, as is the Seafarers' effort to end the abusive, dangerous and often il­ legal practices of runaway-flag operators. Such flag-of-convenience atrocities were spot­ lighted in a number of accidents and attempted smuggling inci­ dents in 1993. The following is a look back on some of the highlights and other notable occurrences of the past year. LEGISLATION On November 4, the House of Representatives passed the Maritime Security and Competi­ tiveness Act (H.R. 2151) by an overwhelming margin of 347-65. The bill, which awaits Senate ac­ tion, outlines a $1.2 billion, 10year program to provide operating subsidies for a proposed Maritime Security Fleet. The bill is the first major piece of legislation pealing with the U.S.-flag maritime industry to be passed by the House in nearly 20 years. On the same day that the House members passed H.R. 2151, they sank an amendment that would have restricted or ex­ empted the American grain car­ goes from the legal requirements tiiat aid cargo be carried on U.S. bottoms, part of a $700 million grain deal reached between Presi­ dent Clinton and Russian Presi­ dent Boris Yeltsin. Elsewhere, the SIU continued urging Congress to pass legisla­ tion (H.R. 1915) designed to close a loophole in the nation's maritime standards which ex­ empts the vast majority of people working on inland vessels from holding z-cards. This problem was spotlighted by the Amtrak disaster of September 22, when the Sunset Limited derailed near Mobile, Ala., resulting in 47 deaths. Minutes before the derail­ ment, a tug/barge struck a bridge, causing the tracks on which die train was traveling to shift. In other legislative news, the SIU urged congressional support of a bill that would apply U.S. labor standards to all vessels regularly engaged in U.S. com­ merce that operate under a foreign flag. The Seafarers, in behalf of American family fishermen, also urged Congress to retool the na­ tional law tiiat covers the conser­ vation and management of U.S. fisheries resources, known as the Magnuson Act. On June 15, the House passed a bill that would ban the per­ manent hiring of scabs (workers who replace striking employees. This marked the second time the House has passed Workplace Fairness legislation, which again awaits action by the Senate. In addition, the House ap­ proved the $621 niillion authorization bill to run the Maritime Administration (MarAd) during fiscal year 1994. The bill includes an SlU-backed amendment which prohibits MarAd from granting U.S.-flag shipping companies any re-flag­ ging requests until 1995. The amendment passed by a vote of 388 to 41. Earlier in the year, Sea-Land and American President Lines had filed applications to re-flag a total of 20 U.S. ships due to the lack of a new U.S. maritime program. Finally, in a bitter defeat for working Americans, the presi­ dent signed off on the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), a pact involving the U.S., Mexico and Canada. Despite the approval of the flawed trade ded, the SIU joined with the rest of the labor move­ ment in vowing that America's fight for a truly fair trade agree­ ment is not finished. CONTRACTS On September 7, the member­ ship overwhelmingly approved a new three-year standard freightship and tanker agreement. The pact calls for a cumulative wage increase of 11 percent, ex­ tends outpatient medical benefits to qualified members and removes the $l,000-per-month cap from pensions of eligible Seafarers. Voting took place at special meetings in SIU halls and aboard ships. Meanwhile, Seafarers who sail aboard Crowley Towing and Transportation tugboats ap­ proved a three-year contract that increases wages and benefits. SIU members who work for Crescent Towing and McAllister Towing ratified contracts that netted wage and benefits in­ creases. schedules uDside down Pictured mf AI? boatq affertPft hv thSX'nHQ above IS the Alton Belle, one of many SIU Capitol Hill. Above: SIU VP Joe oodisanecieooyineTiooas. Sacco stresses to congressional comrriittee the need for updated inland safety regs. Above'^Be^fofdVbfJ *) «shprmpn flnm ° Members who sail aboard the LNG ships operated by Energy Transportation Corporation ap­ proved a three-year contract which includes wage increases and improved benefits. Great Lakes Seafarers who sail aboard Luedtke Engineering and Zenith Dredge vessels ratified a three-year deal includ­ ing wage and benefits increases. Other Great Lakes Seafarers reached a four-year agreement, including wage and benefits in­ creases, with the Great Lakes As­ sociation of Marine Contractors, a management ^oup comprised of the following operators: American Steamship Company, Cement Transit Co. and Litton Great Lakes and Erie Sand Steamship Co. Orgulf Transportation boat­ men ratified a four-year deal, in­ cluding a wage increase and expanded medical benefits. SIU boatmen sailing aboard G&H tugboats along the Texas coast of the Gulf of Mexico ap­ proved a three-year pact featuring wage and benefits increases, plus improved pension benefits. Officers aboard the Alton Belle voted for a three-year con­ tract which netted a wage in­ crease, improved vacation benefits and better working con­ ditions. (The officers earlier in the year organized themselves and elected to be represented by the SIU.) MORE JOBS, MORE SHIPS The Global Mariner joined AT&T'sfleet of cable ships. Built in Singapore but flying the U.S. flag, the new vessel is crewed by Se^arers. Like its four sister ships, the 479-foot Global Mariner is designed to lay and repair fiber­ optic cable along the Ocean floor. Early last year, two groups of commercial fishermen from New Jersey joined the SlUNA. They sail out of the Belford Seafood Cooperative Association and the Point Pleasant Fishermen's Dock Cooperative. On Memorial Day weekend, the new Alton Belle liverboat casino JANUARY 1994 SEAFARERS LOG opened in Alton, 111. Featuring numerous upgrades from its jredecessor, the new boat is 55 feet onger than the old A/ton Belle and has a 1,200-passenger.capacity. The Delta Queen Steamboat Co. began construction in June on its newest and most elaborate paddlewheel steamboat, the American Queen, which is scheduled to be in operation by April 1995. Built in the McDermott, Inc. shipyard in Amelia, La., the boat will 1» 420 feet long and have six decks. It is the first steam-powered riverboat to be built in the U.S. in almost 20 years. Also in June, the SlUNA-affiliated United Industrial Workers celebrated the grand reopening of the Queen Mary hotel in Long Beach, Calif. The UlW had waged a year-long grassroots campaign to save the historic, floating hotel. In the months following the reopening, the Queen repeatedly set new at­ tendance records. Last summer, 10 companies that have collective bargaining agreements with the SIU were awarded contracts from MarAd to manage 68 Ready Reserve Force vessels located across the country. As a result, the un­ licensed crewing needs of these vessels will be met by Seafarers. In September, crewmembers working aboard 16 oil spill response ships voted to join the ranks of the SIU. The mariners work for Dyn Marine industries. Seafarers also were very ac­ tive in the campaign at the New Orleans-based shipyard of Avondale Industries, where workers voted for union representation. RESCUES In early Januaiy, crewmem­ bers of the MVRanger saved five people and a dog who were aboard a foundering schooner near Venezuela. Hours earlier, the stranded five had been ig­ nored by a foreign-flag ship. In one of the more difficult rescues of the year, the crew of the Sea-Land Integrity battled fierce winds, rough seas and raip to save eight Englishmen who were adrift on a yacht April 10. The yacht, en route to Ireland from the Bahamas, was taking on water and had little power left when the nighttime rescue took place. Elsewhere, crewmembers from the passenger ship SS Con­ stitution saved two O^u Island residents on March 14, about eight miles south of Koko Head on Oahu. The islanders' catamaran had flipped, and cur­ rents dragged it further and fur­ ther out to sea until the pair jumped off. They subsequently were in the water for 12 hours before the rescue. On May 13, the LNG Taurus crew rescued crewmembers from a disabled 60-foot fishing vessel off the coast of the Philippines. Crewmembers aboard the OMI Charger rescued seven Cuban refugees, including one small child. Tlie Cubans had been on a raft for four days, and they had little water and no food left. Two members of a Lundeberg School trainee class rescued two teenagers who were attempting to swim against a strong current in St. George's Creek. The swim­ mers were exhausted but un­ harmed. The ITB New York executed two rescues in four days, both involving Cuban refugees. And the ITB Groton saved seven Cuban refugees on October 19. PAUL HALL CENTER The Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education continued to offer a full slate of vocational upgrading courses to Seafarers who sail in the deck, engine and steward departments. The Paul Hall Center's Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship also conducted its trainee program, along with dozens of specially designed courses for members who sail in the inland and Great Lakes divisions. The Lundeberg School ex­ panded its hazardous materials curriculum and added several other courses to comply with new federal regulations. The school also hosted a meeting of repre­ sentatives from inland companies for an in-depth discussion of the industry's training needs and a review of the school's curricula. The meeting was part of an ongo­ ing effort to fine-tune the Paul Hall Center's training courses for inland boatmen. In other news regarding the school, former SIU port agent Tom Fay succeeded Ken Conklin as Lundeberg School vice presi­ dent after Conklin announced his retirement. BROTHERHOOD OF THE SEA Beginning in late 1992, SIU crews manned U.S. ships in the Somalia aid mission, as U.S. military forces led an internation­ al effort to bring food and peace to the war-ravaged nation. Seven­ teen SlU-crewed vessels were in­ volved in the relief effort. (Dn February 26, SlU-crewed ferries ran on an emergency schedule in response to the ex­ plosion which rocked the World Trade Center in New York. The ferries transported thousands of people from Manhattan across the Hudson River after the fatal blast severely disrupted local subway, train and bus service. Seafarers' work schedules, and in some cases their homes, were affected by the record flooding which began last summer along the Mississippi River and its tributaries. Schedules for SIU tugs and barges, as well as the Alton Belle and the Mississippi Queen and others, were dis­ rupted. The flooding critically im­ pacted shipping for two months, but the upper Mississippi finally reopened in August. In other news. Seafarers aboard the USNS Pecos became part of history when the MSCPAC vessel hooked up with a Russian navy ship during an underway replenishment exercise in the central Arabian Gulf in March. The SlU-crewed Sugar Is­ lander donated toys, clothing and medical supplies to children at two orphanages in Lithuania. Seafarers befriended the children and played with them. And Houston-area Seafarers continued their volunteer work with KID CARE, a non-profit group which helps under­ privileged children. 'WORK TAX' LAWSUIT In a joint action on April 19, major seafaring unions and five individual mariners filed suit in federal court against a CoastGuard imposed tax on seamen's documents and licenses. The lawsuit filed in Federal District Court in Washington aims to have the so-called user fees declared unconstitutional. Later in the year, the unions and mariners filed for summary judgment, arguing that only Con­ gress can pass a tax and that the legislative body cannot transfer that authority to another branch of government. Final ruling is expected sometime this year. MARITIME NEWS The United States Maritime Coalition, a diverse group con­ cerned with the health of the American merchant marine, formed on September 23. It is comprised of forces representing a wide range of interests includ­ ing patriotic groups; citizens' or­ ganizations; shipping companies active in ocean-going. Great Lakes and domestic commerce; maritime unions representing seamen and boatmen; and shipyards. They banded together to counter efforts to downsize the U.S.-flag fleet and pledged to seek a U.S. maritime policy consistent with the interests of the nation. Delegates of the Maritime Trades Department (MTD), rep­ resenting more than 8 million workers from 42 trade unions, convened in San Francisco in September and launched a grassroots effort to revitalize the U.S.-flag fleet. Earlier in the year, Frank Pecquex succeeded Jean Ingrao as executive secretarytreasurer of the MTD, following Ingrao's retirement on May 31. She had served since 1979. Pec­ quex formerly was an MTD ad­ ministrator. Early last year, the SIU Tally­ ing Committee announced results of the vote for national officers of the Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and In­ land Waters Districts. Michael Sacco was re-elected as presi­ dent, while Joseph Sacco was re­ elected as executive vice president and John Fay was elected secretary-treasurer. Each was elected to a four-year term. IN MEMORIAM Finally, a tragic accident took place October 9, when an ex­ plosion aboard the OMI Charger claimed the lives of SIU pumpman Milton "Willie" Wil­ liams along with two members of a riding crew. Sparked by a weld­ ing torch, the blast occurred near the Houston Ship Channel at night. The captain later com­ mended all crewmembers for their quick and efficient response to the explosion (the other 27 crewmembers were evacuated without incident). Meanwhile, the CAarger eventually was sold for scrap. Additionally, the SIU mourns the deaths of AMO President Raymond T. McKay and retired Vice President Lindsey Williams. McKay, who served as president of District 2 Marine Engineers Beneficial Association, which recently has been renamed the American Maritime Officers (AMO), died at the age of 68 on August 9. As head of his union since 1957, McKay instituted in­ novative programs to ensure the job security of AMO members and greatly increase the size and strength of the union. Williams died September 12. He was 79. Brother Williams had served as the union's Gulf Coast vice president from 1965 until his retirement in 1979. A member of the SIU since 1942, Williams had pioneered new areas of organiz­ ing for the union—reaching out to boatmen working on vessels in harbors and inland waterways. He played a key role in deep sea organizing drives and established the union's political program in the Gulf Coast area. were transported along the Great Lakes The Lundeberg School's state-of-the-art shiphandling Seafarers repeatedly demonstrated their skill as they took part in a The Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education exnumber of rescues at sea last year, including this one^ involving panded its hazmat training in '93. Above: Seafarers practice an oil crewmembers from the LA/G Leo. spill response drill. of vocational upgrading courses. "v. V *•' . ^ :'-\i '.u n • ' • -jr- > ' J 9'. ' • .-h: •:i': SIU ELECTIONS f"®"^t)ers broke out AT&T's The Maritime Security and Competitiveness Act (H.R. 2151) The membership ratified the new three-year standard freightship The Ca//forn/af?esponGferis partof a 16-shipoil newest cable ship, the Global received overwhelming bipartisan support in the House, and now and tanker agreement. Above: Seafarers at the Norfolk, Va. SIU spill response fleet crewed by mariners who in 1993 Manner, which is designed to lay awaits Senate action. hall show their approval of the pact. voted to join the ranks of the SIU. and repair fiber-optic cable alona the ocean floor. I 13 •r • Wr-- ' r'S I;, ^ �14 SEAFJUteRS LOB JANUARY 1^ Chef-Instructor Lupinacci Retires Romeo Lupinacci, corporate executive chef and chef-instruc­ tor at the Paul Hall Center since 1981, says he knows exactly what to do with his free time now that he has retired. "My hobby is cooking. I enjoy doing it, and I'm going to keep doing it," he says. ditionally, he "will be there when the American Culinary Federa­ needed," in a part-time capacity tion and in 1982 founded the at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg Professional Culinary Seafarers School of Seamanship. Association, the first and only "But I'm looking forward to chapter of the American Culinary spending more time with my Federation in the U.S. merchant family," s%id the native of marine. Lupinacci is president of Sewickley, Pa. Lupinacci and his the association. wife, Ann, live in Valley Lee, Among his fondest memories Md. near Piney Point. They have since joining the Seafarers is the three children. opening of the union's head­ A specialist in training men quarters in Camp Springs, Md. and women in food service in 1982. "We had that place aboard U.S.-flag passenger ships really swinging," he noted. He and merchant vessels, Lupinacci also recalled hosting a number began his culinary career as an of notable political and apprentice cook in Sewickley in military representatives at the 1946. He held positions as chef, Lundeberg School during the baker, saucier, broiler cook, sous past decade, as well as publish­ chef and executive chef before ing his voluminous cookbook joining the Lundeberg School last year. staff. "But the best part has been While in the U.S. Naval working with Seafarers," he says. Lupinacci says he has thrived on instructing and working with Reserve, Lupinacci graduated They've become part of my Seafarers. They've become part of my family." from the Second Gook and family. That's what I've really Bakers School of the U.S. loved: teaching and working with Maritime Trade School. He later the members, and seeing their SlU President Michael Sacco completed many other courses re­ progress." presents Lupinacci with a com­ lated to food preparation and At a brief ceremony com­ memorative ship's wheel. management at various educa­ memorating Lupinacci's work in tional institutions. behalf of the Seafarers, SIU PresiHe is a member of the American dent Michael Sacco stated, Indeed, the 71-year-old Battle, who sails from the port The galley gang of the MV Lupinacci—who retired from the Culinary Federation, Inc., the Romeo has done an outstanding of Jacksonville, Fla., also com­ Newark Bay knew that they and Seafarers at the end of last year- Academy of Chefs, the Golden job, and we couldn't be happier mended the work of Pabon and de their fellow crewmembers could remains active in a number of Toque and the Chaine Des Rotis- that he will remain available to la Paz (affectionately known as not be home for Thanksgiving. But prestigious national and interna­ seurs. He also is director of the the union even though he official­ Recertified Steward Nazareth "Papasan"). "They did a great job tional culinary organizations. Ad­ Eastem and Southem Regions of ly has retired." Battle, Chief Cook Miguel Pabon and I was proud to work with and Steward Utility R^on de la them," he said. Paz made sure everyone aboard the During the holiday, the vessel, docked in Bremeihaven, Newark Bay was in the midst of a Germany, enjoyed a traditional North Atlantic run which saw it Thanksgiving feast. call on overseas ports in the Battle and company spent Netherlands, France and Ger­ To those unfamiliar with the to visit the Dinosaur National hall to join the union. He. first several days planning and prepar­ many, as well as domestic ports in SIU or the Seafarers Harry Lun­ Monument, drove through the sailed aboard the USNSHarkness ing the meal, which eagerly was Boston, Norfolk, Va. and deberg School of Seamanship, wheat fields of Kansas during as a cook/baker. devoured by the Newark Bay's Elizabeth, N. J. Piney Point, Md. is a very small harvest season and passed under "When you are out to sea, what crewmembers and by shqreside part of the state surrounded by the Gateway Arch in St. Louis. you have is what you work with. water, woods and farmland. But There are no supermarkets employees of Sea-Land who were Piney Point Experience to Seafarers who earn their around, so you have to make good welcomed aboard in Germany. The menu included a salad bar "Piney Point was a very posi­ with what is available," he said. (featuring crab salad and a water­ tive experience for me and my Johansen stressed the need for melon fruit basket), ham, prime family. I came in wanting to leam camaraderie among crewmemrib, turkey with dressing, cranber­ and came out a better steward," bers while at sea. "^en there is ry sauce, candied yams, crushed said the 44-year-old upgrader. no mail or phone calls from fruit, cream corn, mashed The courses that Johansen people you love, good food and potatoes, sauerkraut, broccoli, completed included classroom in­ service will lift spirits. When struction supplemented by on- you're working really hard on a cauliflower, Christmas candies, the-job training. He learned ship far at sea, a friendly face and coconut and chocolate cake, improved skills in menu plan­ fabulous meal really brighten a apple pie, pumpkin pie, sweet potato pie, mincemeat pie, lemon ning, work supervision, organiza­ day. meringue pie and a special-recipe tion, typing, inventory control "I firmly believe that food is eggnog. and requisitioning procedures. always the number one morale "We started getting the Sanitation, nutrition and safety factor at sea. If people come in pastries together at 4 a.m.," stated were stressed, and he actively after a bad day and are served a Battle, a Lundeberg School participated in all phases of the good meal in a friendly manner, graduate who has been with the school's food service super­ they leave in a better frame of SIU for 23 years. "We wanted to vision. He also successfully com­ mind," Johansen noted. do something special, and it was pleted courses in firefighting,first "I urged others in my courses to see how much everyone Recertified Steward Nazareth nice aid and CPR. here at Piney Point to smile when enjoyed it. They really ap­ Battle makes sure dessert is Chief Cook Lewis Johansen Johansen noted that learning is serving meals because it gives ready. believes service with a smile can a continuing process at sea. "You that positive point of view to the preciated everything." brighten any Seafarer's day. think that you know it all. Then person receiving a fresh-cooked you get on your next ship with a meal," he concluded. livelihoods aboard U.S.-flag ves­ whole new crew and you are One specialty that Chief sels, Piney Point is a place of faced with a entirely new set of Steward Lewis Johansen enjoys solidarity where SIU members learning experiences to deal making aboard ship is his come from all over the country to with." minestrone soup. He provided the further their maritime careers. Johansen spent 20 years in the Seafarers LOG with a copy of his One member who recently U.S. Navy, 10 of which were recipe. Other stewards are urged upgraded to chief steward at the spent cooking on submarines. He to send their favorite recipes for facility is Lewis E. Johansen. was out of the Navy for only one inclusion in future issues of the Together with his wife Rebecca year before he went to the Seattle LOG. and 9-year-old son Neil, he drove their small family car more than MINESTRONE SOUP 2,800 miles from Seattle to Piney 1 tbsp. fresh, crushed garlic Sautee garlic, onions and celery Point in order to begin upgrading 2 large chopped onions together in olive oil. 4 cups chopped celery Dissolve beef and chicken base in courses at the school. hot water and add to garlic, onion "It was a great experience and 2 quarts crushed tomatoes 2 lbs. ziti noodles and celery mixture. something I was glad to share 6 oz. chicken base Add tomatoes with my wife and son," Johansen 2 oz. beef base Simmer for 30 minutes -Add frozen mixed vegetables, told a reporter from the Seafarers 3 gallons (approx.) hot water kidney and garbanzo beans, LOG. "We took our time and saw 2 lbs. mixed frozen vegetables 3 lbs. frozen chopped spinach oregano and ziti noodles everything we could along the (thawed) Simmer for 30 minutes way." Add spinabh during the last 15 3 cups kidney beans minutes to retain the vegetable's The Johansen family left their 3 cups garbanzo beans natural green color native Seattle on June 21 and ar­ V4 oz. chopped oregano leaves From the left, Steward Assistant Ramon de la Paz, Chief Steward Serve hot rived at the Lundeberg School on 4 tbsp. olive oil Nazareth Battle and Chief Cook Miguel Pabon prepare an elaborate Makes 50 servings Thanksgiving dinner for fellow crewmembers aboard the Newark Bay. July 4. They stopped in Colorado Newark Bay Stewards Provide Traditional Thanksgiving Menu There Is Never Enough Training For Seafarer Lewis Johansen ' Av' .i: '• �••• •-•.?,. • A, S-. •s'-:'iA- • ;.'"• ' '.• -'^ JANUARY 1994 SEAFARERS LOG Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea NOVEMBER 16 —DECEMBER 15.1993 •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Trip Reliefs ••REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C Port DECK DEPARTMENT New York 39 29 6 30 31 2 29 48 55 12 Philadelphia 2 6 2 2. 3 2 1 3 11 3 Baltimore 5 10 0 4 9 0 3 6 11 2 Norfolk 12 22 6 8 13 2 6 19 34 6 Mobile 11 17 3 8 12 1 1 21 26 5 New Orleans 22 27 4 21 19 5 3 39 51 9 Jacksonville 32 27 2 18 23 14 • 54 49 4 San Francisco 19 15 4 14 22 •, . 0 S-i;;: :7 49 30 10 Wilmington 23 23 3 15 17 37 30 8 P--4-. Seattle 20 19 3 16 20 0 6 45 39 9 Puerto Rico 16 3 6 5 2 0 5 17 5 9 Honolulu 9 14 6 5 13 7 8 16 14 14 Houston 36 34 8 23 24 3 13 . . 44 49 14 St. Louis 0 3 0 1 2 0: X::\X^" 5 0 Piney Point 0 2 0 3 0 . . 0 2 3 0 Algonac 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 0 Totals 247 251 53 170 213 29 100 407 409 105 Port ENGINE DEPARTMENT New York 19 :;:14 2" ' 14 7 1 8 41 42 Philadelphia 3 2 0 • :l 1 0 Baltimore L-; 12 4 • • •0 0 x:i: 7 mxis: 2 Norfolk 4 11 5 1 5 3 0 11 21 11 Mobile 8 9 1 4 4 0 17 18 1 1 New Orleans 13 21 4• 10 5 0 3 22 29 11 Jacksonville 11 20 3-:EI 10 11 0 10 28 42 San Francisco 15 10 10 0 7 28 32 5 Wilmingtpn 13 4 4 ' •. 1 5 35 21 7 Seattle 14 13 0 n 0 26 26 3 5 9 Puerto Rico 11 5 0 4 3 0 4 8 4 3 Honolulu 6 17 6 2 16 5 8 8 16 12 Houston 12 2 13 13 0 30 12 5 23 6 St. Louis 0 •'--l'• • O-:"-'t-IIV' 0 0 0 0 3 0 Piney Point 0 :-,0: 0 5 0 0 18 0 .V6v; 0 0 0 0 Algonac 1 , 0 0 0 2 1 57 77 131 173 30 86 101 10 248 340 Totals STEWARD DEPARTMENT Port 0 10 24 25 1 New York 10 12 11 •, 0 0 3 2 1 2 Philadelphia , l'-'- -•'r-ix 0,:. 1 7 2 0 0 1 2 • Baltimore 0 2 15 1 ,•: 15 •" 2 1 1 3 ••• 4 Norfolk 4 11 8 1 0 11 3 0 0 3 Mobile 5 4 14 18 2 0 2 4 7 0 New Orleans 12 10 23 8 3 9 6 0 11 Jacksonville 13 1 • '•9-S-: 79 3 29 9 4 'XX : /: 23 1 Sah Francisco 45 12 . 5 •••; '.'l^i 23 3 0 0 6' Wilmington 17 3 34 8 8 . 5 0 0 14 Seattle 17 4 4 2 2 1 0 0 3 1 Puerto Rico 3 1 18 28 35 1 0 3 8 5 15 Honolulu 15 3 ' 12 • 21 0 6 1 4n X •. Houston 13 0 0 2 •• -0 • -"i-.•vs-v 0 0 0 • 0-'^- - 0 .. St. Louis 0 1 2 X^Xs 0 0 2 0 8 2 Piney Point 0 ^ 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Algonac 0 287 184 42 47 47 2 101 14 97 168 Totals » ENTRY DEPARTMENT Port 37 76 15 0 0 32 7 11 34 7 New York 7 2 2 0 1 2 0 4 1 Philadelphia 2 3 9 0 2 1 5 0 5 0 Baltimore 2 18 10 42 0 0 10 . 1 5 19 5 Norfolk 33 1 4 0 0 4 1 0 20 Mobile 1 17 40 19 0 0 13 8 20 5 New Orleans 9 32 12 6 0 •1'^" ••••;•' 13 1 7 Jacksonville •3 : 16 16 40 31 0 4 0 3 4 15 San Francisco 17 22 24 0 11 0 7 5 10 11 5 Wilmington 39 10 10 0 0 8 9 4 12 6 Seattle 10 12 12 0 1 4 4 6 2 Puerto Rico 9 163 117 16 0 7 ^ 11 1 53 53 6 Honolulu 35 8 8 0 1 ^• 6 1 4 15 Houston 4 0 0 4 0 0 0 0 0 4 St. Louis 0 0 31 1 0 0 19 0 25 0 0 Piney Point 0 2 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 Algonac 324 147 538 0 12 139 38 116 252 76 Totals Totals All 548 1,089 1,471 204 53 500 395 213 773 Departments 622 * 'Total Reeistered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. • :o'- • m- -vn •' '•silSv, .• 15 February & March 1994 Membership Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, Inland Waters Ptney Point Monday, February 7, March 7 New York Tuesday: Februaiy 8, March 8 Philadelphia Wednesday: Februaiy 9, March 9 Baltimore Thursday: February 10, March 10 Norfolk Thursday: February 10, March 10 Jacksonville Thursday: February 10, March 10 Algonac Friday: Februaiy 11, March 11 Houston Monday: February 14, March 14 NewOrleans Tuesday: February 15, March 15 Mobile Wednesday: Febru^ 16, March 16 San Francisco Thursday: Februaiy 17, March 17 Wilmington Tuesday: February 22*; Monday: March 21 *changed ty Presidents'Day hoUday Seattle Frid^: February 25, March 25 San Juan Thursday: February 10, March 10 St.Louis Friday: February 18, March 18 Honolulu Friday: February 18, March 18 Duluth Wednesday: Fpbruary 16, March 16 JerseyCity Wednesday: February 23, March 23 New Bedford Tuesday: February 22, March 22 Exh poifs starts at 10:30 am. Personal HOSPITALIZED MEMBER SEEKS CORRESPONDENCE James E. Hill would like to hear from his SIU friends, including those at Maritime Overseas Corp. His mailing address is: c/o G. Pierce Wood Memorial Hospital, 5847 SE Highway 31, Arcadia, FL 33821. ** "Kegistered on tne Beacn means mc luiui v.. ...v... r-- ------ --- - -— ,. A total of 1,152 jobs were shipped on SlU-contracted deep sea vessels. Of the 1,152 jobs shipped, 395 jobs or about 341 ercent were taken by "A" seniority members. The rest were filled by "B" and "C' seniority people. From Novemberl# to December 15,1993, a total of 204 trip relief jobs were shipped. Since the tnp relief program began on April 1,1982, a total of 20,072 Jobs have been shipped. '• '. . ' .V •' �mi • ^'^ • '.' • .. JANUARY 1994 16 SEAFARERS LOG Ut •f '• Seafarers International Union Directory ^"y-- :; 'v-- .•/•^•""" 'i' ••,' ''m " ' J" c i?r 'Vl r' "ft S;;.«"•'•'•" ••^•' ft' tftft'" 'ft: -V I Michael Sacco President John Fay Secretary-Treasurer Joseph Sacco Executive Vice President Augustin Tellez Vice President Collective Bargaining George McCartn^ Vice ce President West Go oast Roy A. "Buck" Mercer Vice President Government Services Jack Caffey Vice President Atlantic Coast Byron Kelley Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Coreey Vice President Gulf Coast HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC , 520 St. Clair River Dr. Algonac,Ml 48001 (313)794-4988 BALTIMORE 1216 E. Baltimore St. Baltimore, MD 21202 (410) 327-4900 DULUTH 705 Medical Arts Building Duluth, MN 55802 (218)722-4110 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St. Honolulu,™ 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 PierCe St. Houston, TX 77002 (713)659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St. Jacksonville, PL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JERSEY CITY Jerse MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy. Mobile, AL 36605 (205)478-0916 NEW BEDFORD 48 Union St. New Bedford, MA 02740 (508)997-5404 NEW ORLEANS 630 Jackson Ave. New Orleans, LA 70130 (504) 529-7546 NEW YORK 675 Fourth Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718)499-6600 NORFOLK 115ThirdSt. Norfolk, VA 23510 (804) 622-1892 PHILADELPHIA 9fifVd 4 Philadelphia," PA 19148 (215)336-3818 PINEYPOINT P.O. Box 75 Piney Point, MD 20674 (301)994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 2 West Dixie Highway Dania, FL 33004 (305)921-5661 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St. San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Government Services Division (415)861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave. Stop 16Vi Santurce, PR 00907 (809)721-4033 SEATTLE 2505 First Ave. Seattle, WA 98121 (206)441-1960 ST. LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave. SL Louis, MO 63116 (314)752-6500 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave. Wilmington, CA 90744 (310)549-4000 DispatchersV Report for Great Lakes NOVEMBER 16 — DECEMBER 15,1993 CL—Company/Lakes L—Lakes NP—^Non Priority ^ Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP ft ft: ft; :ft ft;::;,;,.-ft, ft. 0 0 .'ft 0 ft-' ft ftftilS^filftftftft Totals All Departments 13 6 10 •ft'.: ft 3 4 ft ft. 0 . 0 4 4 0 31 13 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP ••REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups . Class CL Class L Class NP DECK DEPARTMENT 0 44 15 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 22 7 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 12 4 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 0. 78 0 0 ^ mi 26 11 5 4 , •ft ' J 3- 4 ' 'I -ft'ft. ' 0 5 7 0 23 17 • "Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. ** "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters NOVEMBER 16 •TOTAL REGISTERED Class A ClassB Class C DECEMBER 15,1993 ••REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups TOTAL SHIPPED Class A Class B Class C Class A ClassB Class C DECK DEPARTMENT Region 0 33 0 0 2 0 Atlantic Coast 6 0 ftft"'^ 4 . '^14;..Sft' 11 ft 39 0 0 0 6 GulfCoast 0 19 • . •37ftftftftftft', 0 0 0 0 Lakes & Inland Waters 0 0 14 22 77 2 1 24 49 0 46 West Coast 0 1, 116 67 0 52 86 3 43 Totals 39 1 ENGINE DEPARTMENT Region ft., 2 3 : 0 ftftft,. "-: 2 . 0 0 .1.^ 'ft-^ft 0 Atlantic Coast 0 2 .-ft,.' ft" 4 0 0 ftftftl . • ..ft Gulf Coast •, 'ft'ft' ft^ftft 5.: . ' 'l.-'r ,5, . .ft-. 2 Lakes & Inland Waters , ,fcft 16 ,6 0 0 . • 30;7.ftfts: 0 0 ^ft'-oft'ft-. 0 , West Coast 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Totals 23 8 0 38 3 1 2 4 7 Region STEWARD DEPARTMENT -.ft. 2 .-v,ft 0 ii::ftl ..ft 0 0 0 0 0 '.ftf. 0Atlantic Coast ft ftftft :ftft2,".;--ft 2 -C : 10 & 0 I i Gulf Coast ^^•^vlft. ft2 1 :ft.ft,4:v:;f ft4ft.^.'/ft 0 ^ ftftd'ftft-fti: 0 0 Lakes & Inland Waters " 3 0 9 0 2 8 West Coast 2 2 1 1 0 3 1 15 3 18 3 Totals 8 7 4 3 1 139 9 138 57 Totals All Departments 70 57 79 3 3 * "Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. ** "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED TO READY LIBERTY AND VICTORY SHIPS HONOR ROLL BEING (§ COMPILED FOR RUSSIAN^ MEDAL HONOREES Historian Ian Millar is in the process Volunteers from all departments are of compiling a roll of honor for all mer­ ft needed to help prepare the Liberty Ships |s John Brown and Jeremiah O'Brien as chant mariners and members of the Naval Armed Guard who have received || well as the Lane Victory sail to Europe the Russian medal for the 40th anniver­ ft in convoy this spring. The vessels are sary of victory in World War 11. ft planning to take part in the 50th anniverIt is Millar's hope to produce a softsary celebration in Europe of the Noi^ bound booklet which will give a history mandy invasion. of the convoys as well as the roll of All three restored World War 11 ships names of the many participants in the have become floating historical pieces. Murmansk Run. Anyone who would like to donate time Those who received a medal for par­ to the effort is asked to call the ships ticipating in the convoys to north Russia BECOME A DOCENT individually: John Brown, docked in can send him a postcard with their name, Baltimore, at (410) 661-1550; Jeremiah AT THE SOUTH STREET rank aboard ship, the name of the ship O'Brien, docked in San Francisco, at SEAPORT MUSEUM and dates of the voyage. He also will (415) 441-3101; and Lane Victory, Volunteer opportunities are available docked in San Pedro, Calif., at (310) accept letter with more details or recol­ at the South Street Seaport Museum, ^519-9545. o lections of the Convoys. However, a post : card with the above information will which preserves and interprets the his­ suffice. tory of New York as a world port ^ UPDATE YOUR ADDRESS ^ Due to the large number of medal through historic ships, changing exhibi­ If you recently moved or changed recipients, Millar will not be able to ; tions, tours and other programs. your name, it is necessary to have your acknowledge each letter or card unless a ft The education department is looking correct address on file with the Seafarers stamped, self-addressed envelope is ft for people to join the docent programVacation Plan. enclosed. ; volunteering four or even eight hours a If you have not yet notified the union, At this time, only those who received ft week to give tours of the museum, gal­ go to your nearest union hall and fill out the medal for the convoys to north Rusleries and ships. For those who love a change of address form, or send your sia should write. Later, if medals are history and enjoy meeeting new people, new address (along with your name, awarded to those who sailed to Odessa ft there are positions available. Training is book number and social security num­ and the Persian Gulf, another roll will be ft free. ber) to: Address Control, Seafarers In- created. ft For additional information, call the /ternational'Union, 5201 Auth >yay. Send data to Ian A. Millar, Maritime I director of volunteer programs at (212), Camp Springs, MD 20746. / Research, 1806" Bantry Trail, / 669-9445. Kemersville, NC 27284-4306. nUBM IQMID ? ..I, �,X.- I.;' _:vi,':. '^- .•;- --::-i:T . - ;. 1^1 >.1 •"«>1» 5f,s3«»4'53:^^^ ^W?Si;5?SM JANUARri994 SEAFARERS LOG SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR SEAFARERS VACATION FUND To Our New Pensioners ... Thanks for a Job Well Done This is a summary of the annual report of the Seafarers Vacation Fund EIN 13-5602047 for the year ended December 31, 1992. The annual report has been filed with the Intemal Revenue Service, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). The Tmst hascommitted itself to pay claims incurred under the terms of the plan. Each month in the Seafarers LOG, the names of SIU members who recently have become pensioners appear with a brief biographical sketch. These men and women have served the maritime industry well, and the SIU and all their union brothers and sisters wish them happiness and health in the days ahead. BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENT ;,. '•/J-'F-o'.-tft . T he Seafarers Pension Plan this month announces the retirements of 15 members. Eleven of those signing off sailed in the deep sea division, while two each sailed in the in­ land and Great Lakes districts. Brothers Jimmie Garner and James Sheets successfully completed the bosun recertifica tion program at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship. Brother Gamer completed the course in 1974 while Brother Sheets com­ pleted it in 1975. Brief biographical sketches of Brothers Gamer and Sheets as well as the other new pen­ sioners who are retuming to shore follow. DEEP SEA LAUREN BRYANT, 65, signed on with die Seafarers in 1961 in the port of Seat­ tle. A native of Keen, Kan., he sailed as a QMED. Brother Bryant served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1945 to 1953. He retired to Federal Way, Wash. JOSEPH CHIARAMONTE,63, joined the union in 1958 in the port of New York. BoiUin Brooklyn, N;Y., he sailed in the deck department. Brother Chiaramonte upgraded fre­ quently at Piney Point. He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1947 to 1953. Brother Chiaramonte resides in Jersey City, N.J. ANTONIO CRIS­ TOBAL, 65, joined the SIU in 1979 in the port of Wilmington, Calif. A na­ tive of ' Manila, Philiiipines, he sailed as a wiper, Brotliler Cristobal calls Norwalk, CaUf. home. JIMMIE GARNER, 53, began his sailing career in 1963 in the port of Mobile, Ala^ Bom in Gadsden, Ala., he suc­ cessfully completed the bosun recertification course at the Lun­ deberg School in 1974. Brother Gamer retired to Southside, Ala. JOHN HILL, 48, joined the Seafarers in 1966 in the, port of Nor­ folk, Va. A native of Dayton, Ohio, he sailed in the deck department. Brother Hill served in the U.S. Army from 1962 to 1965. He calls Virginia Beach, Va. home. deberg School frequently. Brother Pazos still calls New York home. DONALD HINES,66, signed on with the union in 1970 in the port of Seattle. Bom in Washington, he sailed as a QMED. Brother Hines resides in Issaquah. Wash. JAMES SHEETS, 63, began his sail­ ing career with the union in in the New Yorl Bom in \ ginia, he cessfully the bosun recertification !e at the Lun­ deberg School in 1975. Brother Sheets served in the U.S. Army from 1951 to 1953. He calls Bal­ timore home. RODOLFO LOPEZ, 65, joined the SIU in 1974 in the port of New Orleans. A native of Honduras, he sailed in the deck depart­ ment. Brother Lopez upgraded at Piney Point in 1978. He retired to New Orleans. ROBERT MILLER, 61, began his sailing career in 1960 on the Great Lakes. He transferred his book to the deep sea division in 1964 and sailed out of the port of Houston. Bom in Erie, Pa., he sailed as a QMED. Brother Miller upgraded at the Lurtdeberg School frequently. He served in die U.S. Army. Brother Miller calls Wattsburg, Pa. home. LAVERNE QUANTZ, 65, signed on with die SIU in 1967 in the port of New York. A Spokane, Wash, nadve, he sailed in the deck department. Brother Quaptz upgraded at Piney Point in 1979. He resides in Lacey, Wash. JOSEPH PAZOS, 53, joined the Seafarers in 1968 in his native New York. Brother Pazos sailed as a QMED. He upgraded at the Lun­ 17 The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan was $4,880,007 as of December 31, 1992, compared to $3,217,450 as of January 1,1992. During the plan year, the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $1,662,557. This increase included unrealized ap­ preciation in the value of plan assets; that is the difference between the current value of assets at the beginning of the year plus the cost of any assets acquired during the year less the current value of assets at the end of the year. During the plan year, the plan had total income of $40,169,314 including employer contributions of $39,476,728, gain on sale of assets of $681,and eamings from investments of $691,905. Plan expenseswere $38,506,757. These expenses included $4,156,306 in administrative expenses, $31,908,730 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries, and $2,441,721 in other expenses (payroll taxes on vacation benefits). YOUR RIGHTS TO ADDITIONAL INFORMATION INLAND LUIS GON­ ZALEZ, 62, joined the Seafarers in 1976 in his na­ tive Puerto Rico. He sailed as an engineer. Boatman Gon­ zalez retired to Puerto Rico. BUSTER NICHOLS, 65, joined the union in 1962 in the port of Norfdlk,Va. Bom in the British West Indies, he sailed as a baige captain. Boatman Nichols resides in Holiday, Fla. Vou have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items list^ below are included in that report: 1. An accountants' report, 2. Assets held for investment, 3. Service provider ^d trustee information, 4. Schedule of reportable transactions. To obtain a copy of the full atmual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of Mr. Nicholas J. Marrone, who is the Plan Ad­ ministrator, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746, (301) 899-0675. The charge to cover copying costs will be $1.80 for the foil annual report, or $.10 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan admiiustrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the foil annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. Hie charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are fur­ nished without charge. You also have tiie legally protected right to examine the aimual report at the main office of the plan located at 5201 Auth Way, Ca^ Spring, MD 20746, and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, DC, or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to Public Disclosure Room, N4677, Pension and Welfare Benefit Programs, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitutidri Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20216. SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR SEAFARERS WELFARE FUND GREAT LAKES KENNETH SHORKEY, 65, began his sailing career in 1949 in the port of Detroit. A Michigan na­ tive, he sailed in the deck depart­ ment. Brother Shorkey retir^ to Hollywood, Fla. HAROLD WALKLEY, 61, joined the SIU in 1956 in the port of Detroit. A na­ tive of Benzie County, Mich., he sailed as an oiler. Brother Walkley calls Custer, Mich. home. Seven Scholarships are available to Seafarers and members of their families All Seafarers-as well as their spouses and children-who plan to attend college are encouraged to apply for one of seven scholarships being awarded in 1994. Applications now are being accepted. The deadline for submission of all required paperwork is April 15,1994. This is a summary of the annual report of the Seaforers WelfareFund EIN 13-5557534 for tte year ended Decemba- 31,1992. The annual rqxMt has been filed with the btemal Revenue Sovice, as required under the Enployee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974(ERISA). The Trust has crunmitted itself to pay claims incurred under the terms of the plan. BASIC HNANCIALSTATEMBiT The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan was a (deficit) of $(42,1^,981) as of December 31, 1992, compared to $(25,771,455) as of January 1, 1992. Ehiring the plan year tire plan ex­ perienced a decrease in its net assets of $16362,526. This deoease inclurkd unrealized s^redation and depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the current vdue of assets at the begiruiing of the year plus the cost of any assets acquired during tire year less the current value of assets at the end of the year. During the plan year, the plan had total income of $33,629350, including employer contributions of $33,165,660, miscellaneous income of $3,704, gain from sale of assets of $28,416 and eamings from investmoits of $431,570. Plan expenses were $49,991,876. These expenses included $4,871,805 in administrative expenses and $45,120,071 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. YOUR RIGHTS TO ADDITIONAL INFORMATION You have the right to receive a copy of the fiill annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: 1. An accountonts' report. 2. Assets held for investment. 3. Loans or other obligations in default. 4. Reportable transactions. 5. Service provider and trustee information. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the ofifice of 1^. Nidiolas J. Marrone who is the Plan AdministratCH', 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675. Ihe charge to cover copying costs will be $1.70 fm tiw foil annual rqxHt, OT 10 cents per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of incomeand e^qtenses of tire plan and accompanying notes, en* both. If you request a copy of the fi^ armual report from theplan admirustiator, these two statem^ts and accompanying notes will be included as p^ of tiiat rport The charge to cover copying costs given ^ve does not itKlude a charge for the ccpying of these portions of tire rqxxt because portions are furnished without diarge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the aimual report at the main office of the plan at5201 Auth Way, Canp Springs, MD 20746 and at the U.S. D^artment of Labor in Washington, DC, or to obtain a arpy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be address^ to: Public Disclosure Room, N4677, Pension and Welfare Benefit Programs, U.S. Department of Labmr, 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20216. SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION i, Theplanhasadeficitof($42,133,981),asofDecanber31,1992, which includes an estimated liability for retired participants and theirdqien^nts in the amount of $39,985,000. This amount rqnesents the estima^ liability for payment of all future hospital, medical, d^tal, prescription drug and medicare premiums for the life of the pensions and for the period provided in the plan's rules for the dependents of such pensioner. For further information, see an SIU official at any union hall-or contact the Scholarship Program, Seafarers Welfare Plan, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. ' V - r' •; .«'W, • •a . .T J > '/-y • -y; ' •: / > • 9^^ • �18 JAMUARri994 SEAFARERS LOG Heading for his fo'c'sle on the LNG Taurus is Chief Steward Francis Ostendarp. Crew with Menu Variety Making sure Seafarers look forward to meal Steward Francis Ostendarp and the rest of the steward department. "We do whatever we can to make meals dif­ ferent and interesting since we are at sea so much of the time," the recertified steward told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG. At least once each voyage, Ostendarp, along with fellow galley gang members Chief Cook Janet Lyson and Steward Assistants Patricia Ballance, Judi Chester and Shawn Fujiwara, offers special meals where crewmembers eat out­ side, ta^g advantage of the ship's picnic tables. "It's a time all of us look forwarf to," Ostendarp said. The nine-year SIU veteran noted that his skills as a fisherman helped in preparing dinner for his fellow crewmembers during one voyage. "I caught a four-foot hammerhead shark while fishing when I was off duty," he recalled. "I took it into the galley, cleaned it and cooked it that Ready to go ashore in HImejl, night. Nobody went away hungry." In his years of sailing, he also experienced what could have been a chief steward's nightmare. But he called upon his knowledge as a shoreside restaurant cook, which he had done before joining the SIU, to help. While Ostendarp was sailing aboard the LNG Capricorn, lookouts spotted a vessel low in the water and moved in for a rescue. The LNG vessel took on 171 Viernamese boat people. "It became a zoo," he said. "We had them on board for four days and provided two meals a day. Unfortunately, we ran out of rice for the last meal and served instant potatoes instead." While the boat people ate the chicken and vegetables on their plates, they had no idea what the potatoes were. "I've never seen starving people turn down food before," the recertified steward added with a chuckle. The Taurus, like other LNG vessels operated by Energy Transportation Corporation, sails be­ tween Indonesia wbere the ships load liquified natural' gas and Japan where it is offloaded. Round trips on the ships average one a month. Proud to show his SIU colors Is Steward/Baker Alexander Reyer. AB John Willis stands by to provide assistance on deck. Japan is QMED Tim Van Pelt. Enjoying his lunch is OS Steve Lombardi. J''.'f . Prepared to begin dinner in the Taurus'spotless galley are Chief Cook Ron Aubuchon and SA Patricia Ballance. . Offering lunch to a hungry crewmember is Chief Cook Janet Lyson. • • Jf• J' .X.'• J j."'. y, -C �-v,.•. JANUARY 1994 SEAFARB^LOG Digest of Ships Meetings The Setdarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union ship­ board minutes as possible. On occasion, bi^use of space limitations, some will be omit^. *»tf ^ £t ^ F J. open more frequently. News on contract being await^ but Seafarers LOGs received. Educa­ tional director urged members to go to Lundeberg School to upgrade. Deck delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT by engine or steward delegates. Crew noted mail service poor. chairman said new mattresses or- Ships minutes first am reviewed by the union's contract department, Those Issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the dered will arrive in New Orleans. , union upon receipt of the ships minutes. The minutes are then Crew asked that ship be fumigated v\ forwarded to the Seafarers LOG. for bugs and report^ repairs NEDLLOYD HOLLAND(SeaLand Service), July 18—Chairman F. Goethe, Secret^ V. Harper, Educational Director Don Bush, Deck Delegate G. Ray, Engine Delegate A. Lane. Chairman up­ dated crewmembers on Sea-Land's efforts to re-flag vessels. He urged members to take advantage of upgrading courses at Piney Point. Treasurer reported $80 in ship's fund. No beefs of disputed OT reported. Crew reported Seafarers LOGs received. Crew gave vote of thanks to steward department for job well done. Next port: Boston. USTPACIFld(lOM), July 27— Chairman William Csapo Jr., Secretary George Borromeo, Educational Director Felix Durand, Engine Delegate Robert Bunch, Steward Delegate Kristen Swain. Chairman discussed problems receiving mail in Egypt. He reminded crewmembers that senders must clearly note the con­ tracted company, vessel name and complete name and rating of in­ dividual mail is intended to reach. Chairman also announced Coast / Guard inspection and two-week ' layup in Dubai for shipyard repairs. He stated picture taking is prohibited and overnight stays ashore must be cleared with master and customs. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Maritime Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed customs regula­ tions and shore leave. Chairman an­ nounced phone being put on board while in port thanked them for fresh baked pastries, rolls and quiche. Next port: Port Arthur, Texas. SEA-LAND DEFENDER (SeaLand Service), August 27—Chair­ man G. Westphal, Secretary John Alamar, Educational Director Roy Taylor. Chairman reported good trip and asked crewmembers to help keep crew area clean. Educa­ tional director reminded members to attend Lundeberg School. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew reported Seafarers LOGs ar­ riving late. Next port: Oakland, Calif. SEA-LAND INNOVATOR (SeaLand Service), August 29—Chair­ man Claude Dockrey, Secretary Jose Bayani, Educational Director Larry Holhert, Engine Delegate Frank Alshaif, Steward Delegate Rafaelita Giiego. Chairman noted smooth sailing. Secretary thanked the deck and engine departments for keeping ship clean. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Engine delegate asked contracts depart­ ment for clarification concerning jobs that can be performed by en­ gine cadet. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. SEA-LAND PERFORMANCE (Sea-Land Service), August 15— Chairman Richard Moss, Secretary Gary Griswold, Educa­ tional Director Arthur Rhymes Deck Delegate EnunanuU Halkias, Engine Delegate Juan Toro, Steward Delegate James O'­ Reilly. Chairman announced payoff upon arrival in port and said he was waiting for latest news on contract negotiations. Secretary reported new dryer ordered for crew laundry will be received in next port. Educational director reminded members to take ad­ vantage of upgrading opportunities at Paul Hall Center. Engine delegate listed disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck or steward delegates. Crew stated their TV and radio reception being interrupted by use of HAM radio aboard ship. Crew requested designated times each day for HAM radio broadcasts. Crewmem­ bers discussed high cab fares in Elizabeth, N.J. and requested ac­ cess to pay telephones that are seciue from weather and excess noise at Sea-Land terminal on Blount Island, Ra. Next port: Char­ leston, S.C. needed to refrigerators, dishwasher, juice machine and washing machine. Secretary thanked crew for being best he has sailed with. Crew gave galley gang vote of thanks for excellent food. Chair­ man reminded crewmembers to keep noise down. Next port: Nor­ folk, Va. LNG ARIES (ETC), September 12—Chairman B. Darley, Secretary R. Brown, Educational Director D. Panko, Engine Delegate Richard Rohertson. Chairman discussed new contract aiid thanked crew for pleasant tour. Secretary reminded people signing off to replace linen for reliefs. He thanked steward assistant for job well done. Educational director, reminded crewmembers to upgrade whenever possible at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer listed $365 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew stated SlU rep­ resentative Sal Aquia came aboard ship in Japan to discuss new con­ tract and conduct vote. Chairman said captain also discussed new contract with crewmembers and changes that will affect crew. Crew asked contracts department for ad­ ditional information concerning drug testing and cholera shots. Educational director advised mem­ bers to retum movies to video library when finished. Crew gave vote of thanks to steward depart­ ment for job well done. Next port: Nagoya, Japan. < SEA-LAND PERFORMANCE (Sea-Land Service), September 19—Chairman Richard Moss, Secretary Gary Griswold, Educa­ tional Director Daniel Johnson, Deck Delegate Mike Halkias, En­ gine Delegate Juan Toro, Steward Delegate James O'Reilly. Secretary gave vote of thanks to crewmembers for cleaning up their areas. Educational director urged members to upgrade skills at Rney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crewmembers asked con­ tracts department to look into in­ creasing pension benefits in new contract. Next port: Norfolk, Va. draws. Crew asked contracts depart­ ment to clarify any changes for crewmembers with new company operating vessels. Treasurer reported $388 in ship's fund. No bwfs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked contracts department for information concerrung safety bonuses. AMERICAN MERLIN(Osprey Shipping), October 24—Chairman Paul Butterworth, Secretary Kevin Deegan, Educational £>irector Jerry Ember, Deck Delegate John Sullivan, Engine Delegate John Kron, Steward Delegate Wayne Wilson. Chairman an­ nounced galley equipment repaired and new grill installed. Chairman asked contracts department to look into hazardous pay and explosive cargo bonus for crewmembers. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew •.V . V. A;. J ' A'A 'j ' :t: '.'A ' A .i:'. • • •' • ' • j.j • J •. -Jl *; ' ..'V -y.A • •-—^ crew for ruce voyage. He urged members to read Seafarers LOG and keep updated with union news. He also reminded members to sup­ port SPAD. Educational director advised members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Crewmembers voted to approve new contract. Crew extended vote of thanks to galley gang for fine food. LNG LEO (ETC), October 30— Chairman Robert Schwarz, Secretary Henry Jones Jr., Educa­ tional Director Sean Nolan, Deck Delegate G. Kehlls, Engine Delegate Jeffi-ey Yarmola, Steward Delegate Amy RIppel. Chairman reported ship re-crewed from shipyard. Educational director advised engine department and all crewmembers to upgrade at Lun­ deberg School. No beefs or dis- ;• Sailing the Mediterranean On a recent trip through the Mediterranean, Seafarers aboard the Julius Hammer gather on deck to pose for a crew photograph. They are, from left, AB Dave Davenport, Engine Utiiity Bobby Brown Jr., AB Peter Tusa, DEU Nick Valentin, Bosun Bruce Gordon, QMED/Pumpman Ralph Kurpeski and Chief Cook Kevin Merchant. requested new washing machine and dryer. Crew also asked for movies and head cleaner for VCR. Crew gave vote of thanks to steward department for job well done. FRANCES HAMMER (Ocean Shipholding), October 18—Chair­ AMERICAN MERLIN(Osprcy man Rick Wilson, Secretaiy J. Shipping), August 8—Chairman Price. Chairman announced payoff Paul Butterworth, Secretary J. in Tampa, Ha. then discharge in Ahernathy, Educational Director Uncle Sam, La. and loading in J. Store, Deck Delegate Larry Morehead City, N.C. before sailing Duggan, Engine Delegate John for Indonesia. Secretaiy urged Kron, Steward Delegate William members to apply for 1994 SIU Carter. Chairman reported smooth scholarship. Vocational director sailing and discussed SPAD with advised members to upgrade at crewmembers. He updated mem­ Rney Point and keep benzene test bers on contract negotiations. and passports up-to-date. Treasurer Secretary thanked crewmembers listed $220 in ship's fund. No beefs for keeping ship clean. Educational or disputed OT reported. Crew SEAUFT PACIFIC mC). Sep­ director urged members to apply asked contracts department for in­ tember 12—Chairman Ferdliuind for upgrading courses at Piney formation concerning new contract Gongora, Secretary D. SL George, and changes made. Crew requested Point. No beefs or disputed OT Educational Director Tom Moran. new washing machine and repairs reported. Crew reported Seafarers Chainnan reported dart board, darts LOGs received. Crew asked con­ on ship's antenna. Steward and TV for crew lounge will be pur­ tracts department for information delegate reminded members to chased in England. Educational concerning explosive cargoes and wipe grease off chairs after sitting. director reminded members to hazard pay. Crew requested addi­ upgrade at Ltmdeberg School. No tional VCR tapes and library GLOBAL MARINER (Jranb^fs or disputed OT reported. books. Crew reported galley needs soceanic Cable), October 28Crew discussed holiday greetings SEAUFT INDIAN OCEAN repairs to oven and grill. Chairman Thor Young, Secretaiy for Seafarers LOGs. Members re­ (IMC), August 22—Chairman Brian Gross, Educational Director C01//7IER (Vulcan Carriers), quested new clock for crew mess Mike Moore, Secretaiy Joe Slers, B. Steaman, Deck Delegate August 31—Chairman Stephen Deck Delegate Roy Windham, En­ hall and repairs to coffee pot. Crew Michael Mitchell, Engine Argay, Secretary Richard thanked steward department for job Delegate Kelly McDonald. Chair­ gine Delegate Victor Monded. Brumage, Educational Director well done. Secretary reported new stores will man reminded crewmembers Who Rodney Lewis. Chairman re­ je received in Singapore. Educa­ eat night lunch to clean up after USNS WILKES (Bay Ship quested patrolman to meet vessel in tional director reminded members themselves, wipe up any beverages Management), September 19next port. Educational director to upgrade at Rney Point. spilled in passageways and tidy up Chairman Thomas Trehem, urged members to use safety Treasurer reported $250 in ship's laundry room. No beefs after using Secretary K. Dougherty, Educa­ precautions in every port. Deck fund. No beefs or disputed OT or disputed OT reported. tional Director Gary Dahl, Deck delegate reported disputed OT and reported. Crew requested new Delegate Jerry Hill, Engine beefs. No beefs or disputed OT VCR. G/?OrOIV(Sheridan Transporta­ Delegate Jeffrey WUUs, Steward reported by engine or steward tion), October 30—Chairman Nell Delegate Donald Mann. Chairman GREEN ISLAND (Waterman delegates. Crew requested addition­ Matthey, Secretary M. Deloatch, discussed letter received from SIU Steamship Co.), September 26— al washer and dryer for crew Vice President of Government Ser­ Educational Director W. RoherChairman Sammuel Reed, laundry. Crew reported winches vices Roy "Buck" Mercer concern­ son. Deck Delegate Brian Foun-, Secretary E. Myers, Educational need repairs. Steward delegate tain. Steward Delegate M. ing weekend vacation pay under Director D. Ingram, Engine noted refrigerator needs new door. Hanunack. Chairman announced agreement. Crewmembers dis­ Delegate Angellto Francisco. Crew extended special vote of payoff in Tampa, Ha. md thanked cussed problems associated with Chaiiman reported slop chest now thanks to steward department and _ —c— 19 puted OT reported. Crew discussed new contract changes and said telex will be sent to headquarteis. Crew gave round of applause for galley gang for great meals while in shipyard. Next port: Arun, In­ donesia. NUEVO SAN JUAN (Puerto Rico Marine), October 19—Chair­ man W. Card, Secretaiy R. Fagan. Chaiiman reminded crew­ members to separate plastics and regular trash. He also announced signs will be posted concerning no smoking policy in mess hall. OMI CHAMPION (OMl), October 23—Chairman M. De la Cerda, Secretaiy N. Duhe, Educational Director C. Croft. Chaiiman noted couch in crew lounge and ice machine will be replaced. Chair­ man stated he talked to SIU Port Agent Joe Perez and contract passed in fiill. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chainnan gave spe­ cial vote of thanks to galley gang for excellent food. A" •• if;'' 1'^ .• / OMI HUDSON (OMt), October 19—Chairman T. Banks, Secretaiy F. King, Educational Director W. Phlllpot, Engine Delegate J. Fair. Chaiiman an­ nounced ship to lay up in Mobile, Ala. for 14 days. He asked ^wmembers to clean rooms and turn in linen. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed problems concerning draws. OMI PLATTE(OMI). October 10—Chairman Jerry Boruckl, Secretaiy K. Dewitt, Deck Delegate J. Heatheriy, Engine Delegate Alex Resendez, Steward £>elegate Clarence WUIey. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman announceded informa­ tion concerning new contract received from headquarters. He enContinued on page 21 I. A'' r';i �r •• r : 20 1^ JANUARY 1994 SEAFARERS LOG Final Departures DEEP SEA GUSTAVAKK Pensioner Gustav Akk, 94, passed away October 23. Bom in Estonia, he joined the Seafarers in 1943 in the port of New York. Brother Akk sailed as a bosun. He began receiving his pen­ sion in July 1967. WILLIAM BENISH Pensioner William Benish, 78, died Novem­ ber 1. A na­ tive of Washington, he joined the union in 1948 in the port of 4ew York. Brother Benish sailed in the steward department. He retired in November 1979. JOHNBREEN Poisoner Jdm Breen, 71, passed away November 2. He joined the SIU in his na­ tive Baltimore in 1951. Brother Breen sailed in the steward department. He served in the U.S. Army from 1943 to 1946. Brother Breen began receiving his pension in November 1978. MANUEL CANTRE Pensioner Manuel Cantre, 61, died Novem­ ber 1. Bom in Puerto Rico, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1957 in the port of New York, before that union merged with the Atlantic, Giilf, Lakes and Inland Waters Dis­ trict (AGLIWD). Brother Cantre retired in January 1993. GARY HOOVER Pensioner Gary Hoover, 47, passed away Novem­ ber 4. A Mis­ souri native, he joined the SIU in 1969 in the port of New York. Brother Hoover successfully com­ pleted the bosun recertification course at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, Md. in 1979. Brother Hoover began receiving his pen­ sion in January 1991. ROBERTSTANBACH Robert Stanbach, 24, died November 22. Bom in Vir­ ginia, he joined the union in 1991 in Piney Point, Md. after success­ fully completing the trainee pro­ gram. Brother Stanbach sailed in Zubovich served in the U.S. Army from 1942 to 1945. He retired in November 1976. the deck department. He returned to the Lundeberg School in June and upgraded to AB. Brother Stanbach last sailed aboard the Cape Mohican, an OMI vessel. INLAND ARTHUR VOGEL Pensioner Ar­ thur Vogel, 67, passed away Novem­ ber 2. He joined the Seafarers in 1955 in his na­ tive Boston. BrotherVogel sailed in both the steward and deck departments. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1944 to 1946. Brother Vogel retired in July 1985. HOJOENGYJOE Pensioner Ho Joeng Yjoe, 84, died Oc­ tober 20. Bom in China, he joined the SIU in 1952 in the port of New York. Brother Yjoe sailed in the steward department. He began receiving his pension in October 1975. JESSIE CUSHION Pensioner Jessie Cushion, 77, died November 9. Bom in Florida, he signed on with the SIU in 1961 in the port of Port Arthur, Texas. Boatman Cushion sailed as a mate. He served in the U.S. Coast Guard from 1942 to 1946. He began receiving his pension in January 1981. WILLIE JAMES Pensioner Willie James, 66, passed away October 27. Bom in Alabama, Boatman James first shipped with the SIU inland division in 1955 out of the port of Mobile, Ala. He sailed as a leverman. Boatman James retired in April 1989. HENRYSTYRON Pensioner Henry Styron, 80, died^ October 24. A Cedar Island, N.C. native, he joined the SIU in 1962 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Boat­ man Stjnron sailed as an AB. He served in the U.S. Asny from 1942 to 1946. Boatman Styron began receiving his pension in January 1979. GREAT LAKES JOHN KING Pensioner John King, 90, passed away Novem­ ber 23. Bom in Alanson, Mich., he joined the Seafarers in 1960 in the port of Detroit. Brother King sailed as a wheelsman. He retired in April 1972. 11^ ROBERT KELLETT Pensioner Robert Kellett, 72, died October 31. A native of Amesbury, ATLANTIC Mass., he joined the Seafarers in FISHERMEN 1957 in the port of Houston. He sailed in the deck department. Boat­ man Kellett served in the U.S. Air FRANK LUCIDO Force from 1942 to 1945. He Pensioner Frank Lucido, 87, began receiving his pension in passed away October 17. A native April 1984. of Lawrence, Mass., he was one of the original members of the Atlan­ WILLIAM MCKENZIE tic Fishermen's Union, an affiliate Pensioner William McKenzie, 81, of the SIU, before it merged with passed away November 18. Bom the AGLIWD in 1981. Lucido in Texas, he joined the union in joined the union in 1938 in 1957 in the port of Galveston, Gloucester, Mass.,. and worked in Texas. He sailed as a mate. Boat­ that area until the time of his retire­ man McKenzie retired in January ment in October 1975. 1975. , CHARLES ZUBOVICH Pensioner Charles Zubovich, 71, passed away November 24. A native of Leisenring, Pa., he began his sailing career in 1953 in the port of Baltimore. Brother Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The constitution of the SIU At­ lantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership's money and union finances. The constitution re­ quires a detailed audit by cer­ tified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretarytreasurer. A yearly finance com­ mittee of rank-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of tfie union and reports fully their find­ ings and reconunendations. Mem­ bers of this conunittee may make dissenting reports, specific recom­ mendations and separate findings. /-> r>. and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts be­ tween the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by cer­ tified mail, return receipt re­ quested. The proper address for diis is; Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to mem­ bers at all times, either by writing TRUST FUNDS. All trust directly to the union or to the funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Seafarers Appeals Board. Lakes and Inland Waters District CONTRACTS. Copies of all are administered in accordance SIU contracts are available in all with the provisions of various SIU halls. TTiese contracts specify trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trus­ the wages and conditions under tees in charge of these funds shall which an SIU member works and equally consist of union and lives aboard a ship or boat Mem­ management representatives and bers should know their contract their alternates. All expenditures rights, as well as their obligations, and disbursements of trust funds such as filing for overtime (OT) on are made only upon approval by the proper sheets and in the proper a majority of the trustees. All manner. If, at any time, a member trust fund financial records are believes that an SIU patrolman or available at the headquarters of other union official fails to protect dieir contractual rights properly, the various trust funds. he or she should contact the nearest SHIPPING RIGHTS. A SIU port agrait. member's shipping rights and EDITORIAL POLICY — seniority are protected exclusive­ THE SEAFARERS LOG. The ly by contracts between the union Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any ar­ ticle serving the political pur­ poses of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing ar­ ticles deemed harmful to the union or its collective member­ ship. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which con­ sists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no cir­ cumstances should any member pay any money for any reason un­ less he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made wiAout supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a pay­ ment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGA­ TIONS. Copies of the SIU con- V\' stitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is at­ tempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obliga­ tion by any methods, such as deal­ ing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the mem­ ber so affected should immedi­ ately notify headquarters. portunities for seamen and boat­ men and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connec­ tion with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates fpr elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above im­ proper conduct, the- member should notify the Seafarers Inter­ national Union or SPAD by cer­ tified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntaiy. A mem­ ber should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. EQUAL RIGHTS. All mem­ bers are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of theSIU. These rights are clear­ ly set forth in the SIU constitu­ tion and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is en­ titled, the member should notify If at any time a member feels union headquarters. that any of the above rights have SEAFARERS POLITICAL been violated, or that he or she ACTIVITY DONATION — has been denied the constitution­ SPAD. SPAD is a separate al right of access to union records segregated fund. Its proceeds are or information, the member used to further its objects and should immediately notify SIU purposes including, but not President Michael Sacco at head­ limited to, furthering the politi­ quarters by certified mail, return cal, social and ^onomic inter­ receipt requested. The address is: ests of maritime workers, the Michael Sacco, President preservation and furthering of Seafarers International Union the American merchant marine 5201 Auth Way with improved employment opCamp Springs, MD 20746. '.r • 7/ �JAMUARY1994 Ships Digest Continued from page 19 couraged all union members on vessel to actively participate in union meetings. Chairman thanked all crewmembers for keeping ship clean. Next port: Tiema, Ghana. OMI WILLIAMETTEiOMl), Oc­ tober 17—Chairman Louis Hachey, Educational Director F. Vogler, Deck Delegate G. Shaw, Steward Delegate Michael Kozar. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman discussed smoking policy for ship. Crew voted on smoldng hours for crew lounge and gave all three watches and steward department various two-hour shifts to watch movies in a smoke-free lounge. Educational director en­ couraged members to upgrade at Lundeberg School. Next port: San Francisco. OVERSEAS WASHINGTON (Maritime Overseas), October 17— Chairman Michael Itolger, Secretaiy P. Lopez, Educational Director Mark Grendahl, Steward Delegate Rolando Lopez. Chairman read letter from captain concerning changes in shipping rules. He an­ nounced patrolman boarding vessel next port. Educational director reminded members any time they have a chance to upgrade at Piney Point they should take the oppor­ tunity. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman advised crewmembers to keep lounge clean at all times. Crew requested new microwave. Next port: Anacortes, Wash. PFC EUGENE OBREGON (Waterman Steamship), October 23—Chairman Henry Bouganim, Secretary Patrick Helton, Educa­ tional Director Charles Clackley, Deck Delegate Reeves Hornby, Engine Delegate John McCahe, Steward Delegate Mario Mar­ tinez. Chairman-reported Seafarers LOGs being received regularly and urged crewmembers to read them to keep up with what is happening in union. He announcied that after payoff, ship will go on coastwise articles. Educational director en­ couraged members to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang for one of the cleanest and best feeding ships in SIU. Next port: Panama City, Fla. SEAFARAERS LOG Secretary H. Scypes, Educational Director Dann Manthei. Chairman reported contract ratified. He an­ nounced payoff date and site. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked contracts department to look into issuing SIU welfare plan ID insurance cards as soon as possible. Crew gave vote of thanks to steward department. Next port: Elizabeth, N.J. SEA-LAND DISCOVERY (SeaLand Services), October 24Chairman N. Sala, Secretary T. Colls, Educational Director J. Shuler, Deck Delegate Edwin Or­ tega, Engine Delegate Juan Guaris, Steward Delegate Antonio Colon. Chairman announced payoff when patrolman arrives and asked contracts department to clarify sections of new contract No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman an­ nounced new water fountain in crew mess room. Crew requested addition­ al washing machine. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang for good job and good food. Next port: Elizabeth, NJ. SEA-LAND ENTERPRISE (SeaLand Service), October 24—Chair­ man Ernest Duhon, Secretary Harry Lively, Educational Direc­ tor Ray Chapman, Deck Delegate Gary Cardillo, Engine Delegate Earl Olson, Steward Delegate John Bennett. Chairman an­ nounced new contract accepted and ratified. He said new working rules to be in effect on next trip. Educa­ tional director urged members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. SEA-LAND HAWAII (Sea-Land Service), October 10—Chairman G. Hamilton, Secretary J. Smith, Educational Director J. Rogers, Deck Delegate John l^y. Engine Delegate Paul Whalen, Steward Delegate Glenn Taan. Chairman announced trash cans ordered for crewmembers to dispose of plastics in rooms. Crew discussed new con­ tract and changes being made in work rules. Engine delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck or steward delegates. Chairman urged members to read president's report each month. Crew asked steward department to continue putting out hard boiled eggs and sardines at night lunch. Crew asked for new linens to replace worn-out sheets. Next port: Oakland, Calif. tor Jose Del Rio, Deck Delegate Mitchell Santana, Engine Delegate Melvin Layner, Steward Delegate Carlton Griffin. Chair­ man discussed future of Americanflag vessels and stressed need to donate to SPAD for lobbying on Capitol Hill. Educational director reminded crewmembers of impor­ tance of upgrading at Paul HaU Center. Engine delegate reported beef and disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck or steward delegates. Steward delegate gave vote of thanks to crewmembers for keeping common areas clean. Crew noted movies are not being re-wound or placed back in proper covers. Chairman advised crew to lock lounge and movie cabinets while in port. Vote of ^ thanks given to g^ey gang for fine food. Next port: Long BeaCh, Calif. SEA-LAND INNOVATOR (SeaLand Service), October 9—Chair­ man F. Adams, Secretary A. Davis, Deck Delegate John Dehos, Engine Delegate T. Haw­ kins, Steward Delegate Herbert Lopez. Chairman reminded mem­ bers to write congressional repre­ sentatives urging for a stronger merchant marine. Chairman thanked steward department for job well done and encouraged them to keep up good work. Secretary reported one galley gang member signing off to upgrade at Lun­ deberg School. He urged all mem­ bers to upgrade. Deck delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegates. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. SEA-LAND PACIFIC(Sea-Land Service), October 11—Chairman Lothar Reck, Secretary G. Bronson. Educational Director Jnanito Dansalan, Deck Delegate Julius Udan, Engine Delegate David Bland, Steward Delegate John McCree. Chairman reported SIU Port Agent Bob, Hall came to ship for payoff and to discuss new contract as it pertains to all three depart­ ments. Chairman discussed new con­ tract and work rule changes. He encouraged members to donate to SPAD. He reminded crewmembos signing off to clean rooms. He annoimced new washing machine received. Secretary encouraged mem­ bers to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer listed $130 in movie fund and $255 in ship's fund. Steward delegate report^disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by en­ gine or deck delegates. Crewmem­ bers requested new VCR. Chairman advised HKmbers to keqp crew lounge and laundry clean. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. D. Leon Jr., Secretary M. Abdelfattah. Educational Director Steve Miller, Steward Delegate Alex Bonefont. Chairman noted radio for crew lounge needed. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew gave vote of thanlb to steward department and rest of crew for job well done. Chairman Anjelo Urit, Secretary L. Gamble, Educational Director D. Peterson, Deck Delegate Glen Rogers, Steward Delegate An­ tonio Prizmik. Chairman an- Discharging Cargo SEA-LAND VOYAGER (SeaLand Service), October 22—Chair­ man T. Murphy, Secretary Robert Miller, Educational Director B. Landis, Engine Delegate R. Surrick. Steward Delegate A. Hasan. Chairman discussed new contract with crewmembers and urged them to write their elected officials to voice support for a strong U.S. mer­ chant marine. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed' transportation from ship to gate in port. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. SEALIFTATLANTIC (mC), Oc­ tober 10—Chairman Carlos Laureiro, Deck Delegate Doug Lawton, Engine Delegate Evans Clifford, Steward Delegate N. Monteith. Chairman reminded crewmembers not to take more than one movie out of lounge. He announced payoff in Jacksonville, Fla. Educational director en­ couraged members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. No brofs or dis­ puted OT reported. Crew reported problems with air conditioning and hot water. Chairman stated linen locker to be open every Saturday. SEALIFT CARIBBEANmC), October 3—Chairman Kenneth McLamb, Seaetary Robert Bright Chairman announced payoff upon ar­ rival in New Jers^. Crew repotted new mattresses needed on ship. They noted refiig^tors and galley range need repair. '$/• Bosun Jerry erry B Boruckl (right) and All Soto, shoregang worker In Ghana, complete offloading of cargo from OMIPlatte onto wait­ ing truck. nounced payoff in Panama City, Fla. and the pay scale change January 1. Educational director reminded members to upgrade ait Paul Hall Center. No bwfs or dis­ puted OT reported. Crew noted Seafarers LOGsreceived. Steward delegate asked crewmembers to help keep crew lounge clean. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang for great fOod. Chairman said ship will remain in Panama City until January 1994. SEALIFT CARIBBEAN GMC), October 31—Chairman M. Marguatte, Secretaiy Robert Bright Chairman reminded crewmembers STONEWALL JACKSON (Waterman Steamship), October to return movies to cabin when 31—Chairman C. Linebeny, finished. He urged members to Secretary T. Hanson, Educational read Seafarers LOG to understand new contract. Treasurer reported Director F. C. Quebedeaux, Deck Delegate J. Mall, Engine Delegate $600 in ship's fund. All depart­ ment delegates reported disputed Marcos Hill. Chairman armounced OT. Chairman reminded crewmem­ payoff in Newport News, Va. Secretary gave vote of thanks to bers smoking not allowed in mess hall at any time. He reminded mem­ deck department for courtesy wake up calls and electrician for main­ bers to have adequate lighting tenance assistance. No beefs or dis­ when tank is being cleaned and to puted OT reported. Crew said be sure tanks are gas-free. Seafarers LOGs received. Crew re­ SEALIFT INDIAN OCEAN quested new head cleaner for VCR (IMC), October 3—Chairman and new movies. Crew listed Fred Collins, Secretary F. toaster in crew mess as needing re­ SEA-LAND INDEPENDANCE Winiker, Educjational Director placement. Crew thanked steward (Sea-Land Service), October 3— SEA-LAND CHALLENGER Neil Carter, Deck Delegate Jon department for good food and keep­ Chairman J.R. Wilson, Secretary (Sea-Land Service), October 3— Williams. Crew reported VCR and ing areas clean. Nancy Heyden, Educational DirecChairman Jose Rodriguez, microwave need repair. Education­ USNS SILAS BENT(Bay Ship al director reminded members to Management), October 18—Chair­ upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center. SEA-LAND PRODUCER (Seaman Robert Vazquez, Secretary Land Service), October 31—Chair­ No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vext port: Yanbu, Saudi Arabia. B. Henderson, Educational Direc­ man J. Stout, Secretary Donna tor R. Larson, Deck Delegate Jeah demons. Educational Direc­ SEALIFT PACIFIC (mC), Oc­ Andre Bernard, Engine Delegate tor J. Smitko, Deck Delegate tober 24—Chairman F. Gongora, Richard Larsen, Steward Larry Thompson, Engine Secretary Dave St. George, Educa­ Delegate Keith Nixon. Chairman Delegate Steve Cunningham, tional Director Tom Moran. Chair­ discussed new contract with crew­ Steward Delegate Rowell Sim. man announced dart board members. Secretaiy noted rooms Chairman discussed with crew­ received and will get speakers for and refrigerators are clean and in members when Sea-Land would crew lounge in next port. Chairman ;ood order. Educational director begin paying new rates. He isted vessel's upcoming ports with urged members to upgrade at Piney reminded members to upgrade at crew. Secretary thanked crew for Point. No beefs or disputed OT Lundeberg School. No beefs or dis­ one of the best trips he ever made. reported. Chairman said ship puted OT reported. Chairman an­ Educational director encouraged passed last quality assurance inspec­ nounced Seafarers LOGs received. members to upgrade at Piney tion and announced next inflection Next port: Oakland, Calif. Point. Treasurer reported $300 in will be in Singapme. Crew discussed SEA-LAND TRADER (Sea-Land ship's fund. No beefs or disputed Halloween and holiday party at OT reported. Crew discussed send­ Service), October 19—Chairman Seamen's Club in Singapore. Chair­ ing holiday greetings into the Mike Willis, Secretary R. Snow, man said video library needs Seafarers LOG. Chairman Educational Director M. Sabin. volunteer to be responsible for reminded crewmembers to bring Crew gave thanks to galley gang checking out movies. He also empty dishes to galley and keep for job well done. Treasurer reminded crew to keep exercise crew lounge clean. Bosun thar^ed reported $365 in movie fund. room clean and equipment wiped steward for good job. Next port: Chairman reminded crewmembers down. Bosun asked crewmembers Daniel Maxie, chief cook aboard the USNS Silas Bent, demonstrates /no smoking in lounge af/iness hallsy Imingham, U.K. to turn in photos and stories to him his culinary expertise during a recent wokput in the Persian An SGT. MATEJ KOCAK(y/ateTto submit to Seafarers LOG. Next SEA-LAND VALUE (Sea-Land SIU member since 1987, Maxie started sailing aboard the Mississippi port: Dubai. man Steamship), October 31— Service), October 24—Chairman Oi/een where he refined his Louisiana-style cooking. Cajun Cooking at Sea ir^; ISc 21 <r-. • :-.J' -J: J *.•' : 1 - • 'i' •S"' "•f - �22 JANUARY 1994 SEAFARERS LOG Lundeberg School Graduating Classes Trainee Lifeboat Class 517—Graduating from trainee lifeboat class 517 are (from left, kneeling) Eric Campbell, Carlicia Jones, Jesse Cintron, Decoma Scripture, Robert Cardinal, Daniel Cordova, (second row) Jake Karaczynski (instructor), Ragan Deon Overtorl, Gary E. Mizell Jr., Charlfred Autrey, Lauri Harris, Comell Whistenhunt, James Kidd Jr., Luis Molina, Dylan Taylor, (third row) Charles Hill, Michael Tornay, Mark Gross, Matthew Knudsen, Harry Gearhart and Jorge Rolon. Radar—Renewing their radar endorsements on November 3 are (from left, kneeling) Tom Orzechoski, Mark Blom, Jack Smith, (second row) Jake Karaczynski (instaictor), Romeo Lugtu, Ed Bethel Sr., John Mullen and Tom Keely III. Fireman^ Oiler, Watertender—Working their,way up the engine department ratings are (from left, kneeling) John Schafer, Terrow Franks, Arthur Outlaw, Daniel Woods, Victor Serrano, Robert Nelson, John Schn^h Eddfe Len,(s^ row) J. GonzfeKorffl, Donald Ryan Reedy Gill III, Robert ^letto, David HMvey, JM SpelUr., Patnck Scott, Charles Win^sheim, (thm) row) Th^addeus Pisarefc Peter Lucchesi Milton Israel I Haidin Chancey Jr ^ttrony NiekraM, Kyle Roland, Charles Hynes, Steven Cookson, Brandon Purcell, Patrick Levens and John Wiegman (instructor). Able Bodied Seaman—Graduating on October 7 from a special AB course are Toft fir^t noXT/ithooi «iownr f^-Ci Bask Marine Electronics—The September 23 graduates of ^^e basic marine electronics course are (from left, seatjd) Gregory s„ a„j Tony Mohammed, (second row) Robert Flesey, GeSrge Wallis, Michael Hill and Russ Levin (instructor). Tn ^dar endorsernents on October 26 are ^rom left,_ kneeling) Daniel Vi^ch, Douglas Jones, Susan Corliss, Bruce Perry, Daniel Samuel Johnson, Darrell Peterson and Jake Karaczynski (instructor). Container Crane Maintenance—Completing the course of instruction leading to recertification in container crane maintenance are (from left, first row) Stanley Vane, Abraham Alfaro, Henry Campbell, Jose Molina, (second row) Eric Malzkuhn (instructor), Michael Peck, Paul Hanley and Miguel Rivera. Upgraders Lifeboat—Upgrading graduates of the October 20 lifeboat class are (from left, kneeling) Scott Sevret, Claibom Johnson, Tyrell Green, Jimmie Robles, JQrgen Gottschlich, Robert Closson, (second row) John E. Bull, Monte Piyor, Tom Diviny Jr., RebaDeMent, Stanley Golden, Chris Boronski and Jake Karaczynski (instructor). �JANUARY 1994 SEAFARERS LOG ..A' LUHDEBERG SCIUHM. 1994 WmADIHG COURSE SGNEDOiLf Recertlllcatlon Programs TOe following is the course schedule for classes beginning between February and June 1994 at the Seaf^rs Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship located at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. All progr^s are geared to improve job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. The course schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the mantime industry and—in times of conflict—the nation's security. Bosun Recertificatlon Checkrin Date March 28 Completion Date May 2 Steward Recertifiation January 31 March7 Course • March 25 May 20 Radar Certifiration Celestial Navigation February 11 March 4 April 29 May 20 June 17 March 25 February 18 March 11 May 6 May 27 June 24 May 6 Third Mate April 19 August 12 Limited License, Part 1 April 11 June 20 April 25 April 22 Julyl May 6 February 14 May9 February 25 May 20 * .it J. ^ - Limited License, Part 2 Limited License, Part 3 SaMy Specially Courses Oil Spill Prevention and Containment •• Lifeboatman Completion Date February 18 March 18 June 24 February 11 March 11 June 17 ^ February 25 March 25 f April 22 May 6 May 20 June 17 Basic/Advanced Fire Fighting March 11 May 6 March 11 April 8 MayO May 20 June 3 Julyl March 25 May 20 Sealift Operations & Maintenance February 21 March 21 May 9 March 18 April 15 June 3 UPGRADING JUVLOMTmN Date of Birth Name Address (Qty) (Middle) (Fiist) (Last). Month/Day/Year (Street) (State) Deep Sea Member D Telephone _L (Zip Code) Lakes Member CH (AreaCiide) Inland Waters Member CH Department U.S. Citizen: •Yes • No All open-ended (contact admissions oflflce for starting dates) Chief Cook, Chief Steward All open-ended (contact admissions office for starting dates) 1 Check-In Completion Course Date Date All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. Fireman/Watertender and Oiler May 9 June 17 ^ Diesel Engine Technology February 21 March 18 June 27 July 22 Refr^eration Maint & Operations March 21 April 29 Welding March 28 April 22 Pumproom Maint & Operations May 2 June 10 Hydraulics June 20 July 15 Refiig. Containers-Advanced February 28 May 2 June 10 Marine Electronics Technician H February 28 March 25 If yes, which program: from___ O No to. Last grade of school completed Have you attended any SHLSS upgrading courses? • Yes n No If yes, course(s) taken. Have you taken any SHLSS Sealift Operations courses? OYes DNO If yes, how many weeks have you completed? Firefightin^: • Yes DNO Date available for training Primary language spoken CPR:GYes —^: —i—— -T-p v: The following courses are available through the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School. Please contact the admissions office for enrollment information. 'fa;: Course Check-In Date GED Preparation Adult Basic Education (ABE) English as a Second Language (ESL) 12 weeks - open-ended admission 6 weeks - open-ended admission 6 weeks - open-ended admission Developmental Studies March 7 March 14 March 21 Completion Date March 11 March 18 March 25 With this application COPIES of yourdischarges must be submitted showing sufficient time to qualify yourself for the course(s) requested. You also must submit a COPY of each.of the following: the first page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, your clinic card and the front and back of your Lundeberg School identification card listing the course(s)you have taken and completed The Admissions Office WILL NOT schedule you until all of the above are received RATING DATE DATE OF VESSEL HELD SHIPPED DISCHARGE SIGNATURE. DECK AB/Sealift 1st Class Pilot Third Mate Radar Observer Unlimited Master Inspected Towing Vessel D Towboat Operator Inland D Celestial Navigation D Simulator Course • • D iZ) D ENGINE Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? • Yes GNO' April22 - ^^4- - 1994Atlult^ucaUon Schedule Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held •Yes • Englnel^rgiading Courses I am interested in the following coiiise(s) checked below or indicate here if not listed Home Port. Are you a graduate of the SHLSS trainee program? Completion Date Pacific Q If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. ^Book# . Social Security #. Seniority : ' '• • -.ft : Assistant Cook, Cook and Baker Marine Electrical Maintenance Check-In Date Course Check-In Date Course Check-In Completion Date Date AbleSeaman May 20 Julyl All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. Course March 11 May 6 ? 5leward Upffludlng Courses DeckUpgradli^Comses Bridge Management (Shiphandling) 23 GNO . • FOWT D QMED—Any Rating O Variable Speed DC Drive Systems (Marine Electronics) DATE Q Marine Electrical Maintenance Q Pumptoom Maintenance & Operation Q Refrigeration Systems Maintenance & Operation lU Diesel Engine Technology D Assistant Engineer/Chief Engineer Motor Vessel n Original 3rd Engineer Steam or Motor Q Refrigerated Containers Advanced Maintenance D Electro-Hydraulic Systems .D Automation D Hydraulics D Marine Electronics Technician • D • D • STEWARD Assistant Cook Utility Cook and Baker Chief Cook Chief Steward Towboat Inland Ck)ok ALL DEPARTMENTS D Welding • Lifeboatman (must be taken with another coitfse) D Oil Spill Prevention & Containment D Basic/Advanced ' Fire Fighting • Sealift D n • • • ADULT EDUCATION DEPARTMENT Adult Basic Education (ABE) High School Equivalency Program (GED) Developmental Studies (DVS) English as a Second Language (ESL) ABE/ESL Lifeboat Preparation COLLEGE PROGRAM Q Associate in Arts Degree Transportatkui will be paid in accofdince with the schedulingletter oniy ITyou present original reccipis and succcssftilly plele the course. If yon have any questions, contact your port agent-heTore departingfor Pfney PoinL RETURN COMPLETES APPUCATION TO: Lundeheig Upgrading Center, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674. i/94 -f •- i.!--v j' �V -Titfy-.i >•• - SEAEUCEitS Volume 56, Number 1 SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORTS Seafarers Vacation Fund and SeafarersWelfare Fund -Page 17 January 1994 eafarers Share Thanksgiving With Family and Friends H undreds of Seafarers and their families gathered the San Francisco union hall on Tuesday, Novem­ ber 23 to enjoy good food and fellowship at the an­ nual Thanksgiving lunch­ eon. The event took several weeks to set up. Steward department members and pensioners worked together under the direc­ tion of Chief Cooks Burt Richardson and Roland Francisco to make sure everything was just right for the holiday festivities. Enjoying a festive Thanksgiving din­ Galley gang members ner at the San Francisco haii are SlU began preparing the meal steward department member Phillip on Monday. They returned Lau and his daughter and wife. to the hall early the next morning to finish cooking and to prepare the facility for the members and their families who would be at­ tending. The menu consisted of the traditional turkey with stuffing, mashed potatoes and gravy, cranberry sauce and vegetables. For des­ sert, the steward depart­ ment crew prepared apple and pumpkin pies. All reported there was plenty of good food for everyone. The meal was served buffet-style with serving tables set up on one side; the rest of the hall was filled with tables and chairs for the guests. San Francisco Port Agent Nick Celona reported everyone seemed to enjoy themselves. "It was a very festive day with an emotional air to it. We all gathered together to give thanks for all the good things the union has done for us and enjoyed a wonderful dinner prepared by our own union people,'* the port agent noted. Celona stated his ap­ preciation for the food donated by SlU-contracted companies such as Matson Lines, Sea-Land and American President Lines. The dinner fed 383 people, which is the most to attend the San Francis­ co Thanksgiving feast. (The hall began hosting ^e annual affair in 1990.) Joining the Seafarers for the festivities were repre­ sentatives from other San Francisco labor unions, in­ cluding the Sailor's Union of the Pacific, Marine Firemen's Union, United Food and Commercial Workers and the Masters Mates and Pilots—as well ais officials from local con­ tracted shipping com­ panies. Retired SlU Vice President Ed Turner and his wife, Betty, enjoy gathering with SlU members for the holiday. SlU member Doily Talaga says her favorite part of the dinner is visiting old union friends. Preparing to return home after an enjoyable day is SlU member Eugenia White. SlU clinic workers also join Seafarers in their Thanksgiving celebra­ tion. They are, from left, Nancy Pridmore, Sandy Springman, SlU member Frank McCreary and clinic worker Susana Israel. Help Locate This Missing Child SlU members Manny Delossantos and Alex Bermudez relax with a soda after their turkey dinners. Almerian Paminiano (left) was a winner of the SlU scholarship in 1987. She enjoys the holiday meal with her parents, QMED Julio and Apolonia Paminiano. Galley gang members wogked for two days preparing the holiday feast. They are, from left, MC&S pensioner A. Poiias, retired Chief Cook Roland Francisco, Jose Manandic, retiree Eddy Kasa, Kwan Joi-Siu and Chief Cooks John Basquez and Burt Richardson. The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children has asked the Seafarers International Union to assist them in locating Justin Reid Carr. Missing from Garland, Texas since November 1989, when he was three years old. Justin Reid Carr was abducted by his non-custodial mother, Nancy Darlene Carr (alias Nancy McClard). A felony warrant has been issued in her name for interference with child custody. At the time of his abduc­ tion, the blonde-haired, blueeyed boy was 3 feet tall and weighed 25 pounds. Now six years old, Justin Reid Carr has a scar on his right shoulder and has no navel. Anyone having information on the whereabouts of Justin Reid Carr should contact the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children at (8(X))8435678 or the Missing Persons Unit of the Dallas County (Texas) District Attomey's Of­ fice at (214) 653-3600. '" • ,-.1! I � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 1990-1999 Description An account of the resource Volumes LII-LXI Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993; Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource January 1994 Description An account of the resource Headlines: MARITIME ISSUES AT FORE WHEN CONGRESS RESUMES MICHAEL MCKAY ELECTED TO PRESIDENCY OF AMO SHIPPING DROPPED FROM WORLD TRADE PACT SPOTLIGHT ON INLAND SAFETY REGS FOLLOWS RECENT AMTRAK DISASTER SEAFARERS MEDICAL PLAN CONTRACTS NEW CENTERS IN MOBILE, ALABAMA DOT HEAD OUTLINES IDEAS TO MAKE WATERWAYS SAFER PPOS PROVIDE HEALTH SERVICES FOR JACKSONVILLE SEAFARERS BUSY CROWLEY SEAFARERS STILL FIND TIME TO STAY INFORMED AFL-CIO CONTINUES PUSH FOR NATIONAL HEALTH PLAN UNIONS LOOK FOR WAYS TO MAINTAIN BENEFITS AS MEDICAL COSTS AND INSINURED INCREASE SAB CHANGES REGISTRATION PROCEDURES AB NELSON RECOUNTS YEAR ON KANE ORGULF SEAFARERS CONTINUE SAILING DESPITE WATERWAYS' WINTER CLOSING GREAT LAKES SEAFARERS COMPLETE ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL SAILING SEASON MORAN TUG MEMBERS APPROVE NEW CONTRACT BOATMAN TANNER HONORED FOR HEROISM NEW REGS REQUIRE EPA-APPROVED REFRIGERANT CERTIFICATION CONFINED SPACE COURSES ADDED TO LUNDEBERG SCHOOL CURRICULUM SIU-MANNED SURVEY VESSEL SETS NEW RECORD SEAFARERS BRAVE FIERCE SEAS TO SAVE INDONESIAN SEAMAN PRESIDENT JEFFERSON PLUCKS 12 FROM CAPSIZED SHIP NEAR JAPAN 1993 - THE YEAR IN REVIEW CHEF-INSTRUCTOR LUPINACCI RETIRES NEWARK BAY STEWARDS PROVIDE TRADITIONAL THANKSGIVING MENU THERE IS NEVER ENOUGH TRAINING FOR SEAFARERS LEWIS JOHANSEN STEWARD PROVIDES TAURUS CREW WITH MENU VARIETY SEAFARERS SHARE THANKSGIVING WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1/1/1994 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 56, No. 1 1994 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/1a2fb1b7da500b4374d8b07d5cbb921a.PDF 367404a0dce3b43dad73e856b864a1e6 PDF Text Text ;u •-;:. ;•.: 'jA •', •' ^ '"' • *: ' ' • "'T "*• ' '•' ' ' :'•• •' -, /' ' '• y |rm J* • .T 'vr--* . OFFICm ORGAN OF THE SiAFABiRS INTERNATIONAL UNION • ATUNTIC GULF, lAKES AND INLAND WAHRS DISTWa Voiume 55, Number 12 Gerry Studds December,1993 House Declares For U.S. Ships By 347-65 Vole I .SI O0^>073 -HCQ c/)Cornt-ii— kTi-H CO 2:;T100'-«73 »-i -40 0 C0OOv/> \n-4 73 CO OJ?3 s-lCOJ* i -wmo.nif: om3>o I t— ^ CO INJ C02; Cjri . os: o CO sO o-^ o -n> aiiTi •Mm :S/- Jack Fields Leaders of Legislative Battle Bipartisan Support ^ ^ - Page 3 . •+• •: ,...i RgM Against NAFTA Not Oven Kirtdanil .mm •-''•••• '-a .- Pages 57 Natfons Aid Shipping U.S. study Reveais Pages :/. '§:1 -J M- M 994 Lundeberg Schooi Cataiog and Caiendar - Page 15 M �5s,- 2 DECEMBER1993 SEAFMERSlOa President's Report MarAd Survey of Nations Rovoais Wide-Ranging Maridmo Support Sorting Out NAFTA M-..' ' In all the talk about the North American Free Trade Agreement, Fifty-seven of the world's top lishes a co-ownership policy for Research and Technology con­ known as NAFTA, that came before the November 18 vote in the House (200 against - 234 for) and the Senate vote (38 against - 61 for) maritime nations all provide ex vessels it funds. The company tributed a combined $30.9 mil­ days later, it was easy to tell who was for the deal and who was tensive forms of support to their generally shares 60 to 80 percen lion toward research projects for against. On one side were all the guys who won't suffer from the trade national-flag shipping sector anc of the construction costs while the shipbuilding in 1992. The country can restrict the scheme—doctors, newspaper editorial writers, provides the shipbuilding industry, the shipowner conclusion of freight contracts lawyers, accountants, T.V. anchors, investment Maritime Administration remainder. and charters between residents of bankers, stock brokers and university professors. The MCC will collect a fee from (MarAd) found in a study These NAFTA supporters, from the vantage point of released in late October, the shipping company during the Germany and carriers which are their comfortable and secure incomes, flo^^ the The most prevalent forrii o years of co-ownership, roughly be­ residents of countries that ex­ papers and airwaves with their opinions that the pact support among the nations is tween seven to 15 years. At the enc clude German-flag vessels from would be beneficial to them. cabotage laws. A total of 44 of the cb-ownership, the vessel is free competition. On the other side of the issue were working countries provide laws similar to turned over completely to the ship­ South Korean Assistance people. Working people recognized that the pact the U.S. Jones Act that limit ac ping company Japan is not the only Asian meant job losses. The deal allowed companies, The Japan Development Bank nation with a strong economy that cess to a nation's domestic ship with government approval and encouragement, to (JDB) makes loans to Japanese Michael Sacco relocate production and manufacturing operations ments to its own national-flag shipowners for the construction of provides assistance to its ship­ vessels. Among the countries ping and shipbuilding industries. : from the United States to Mexico. responding to the survey that oceangoing vessels. For highly South Korea and Taiwan also The fact that American jobs will be lost is one point everyone in have cabotage laws are Australia, sophisticate vessels, the bank loan have programs in place designed the debate—pro and con—agrees on. What can't be agreed to is the Finland, Germany, Japan covers 60 percent of the cost. specifically for those sectors. number of jobs that will be lost or how long it will take, if ever, for Another 20 comes from a private Sweden and South Korea. the pact to create new jobs in the United States. Those who favored Foreign-flag vessels are The study found 23 countries bank with the shipowner providing prohibited from participating in the agreement argue that the job loss in the U.S. will have only a shortterm effect. But what is short term even by their own definition could offer their national carriers the rest of the funds. Interest rates the domestic coastal trades of be five years or more. The big question this raises is what happens to jreference to ship certain cargoes start at 5.1 percent with repayment both South Korea and Taiwan. the people who become victims of the pact—the hundreds of thousands >oth commercial and govern­ policies lasting up to 15 years. From the government of South of workers who will be displaced, many of them permanently. The JDB also finances other Korea, shipowners may receive ment. Listed among this group are It is significant that environmentalists, Ross Perot and his organiza­ Taiwan, South Korea, Italy, types of vessels, covering 50 per­ loans through the Korean Develop­ tion, family farm groups, Ralph Nader and consumer protection inter­ France and Australia. (Cargo cent of the vessel cost through a ment Bank to cover up to 92 per­ ests oppos^ NAFTA. But the brunt of the fight against the trade deal preference laws in the United loan. A private bank provides cent of the cost of constructing a was borne by organizations representing American workers and led by States include the transport of a another loan for 25 percent and new vessel. Repayment of these the AFL-CIO, the national federation of unions in the United States. portion of U.S. government cargo the remainder comes from the funds is made over an eight-year If the trade union movement had not gone to the mat on NAFTA, military supplies and agricultural shipowner. JDB financing grace period. In 1989, ap­ the deal most likely would have sailed through Congress. But because commodities.) generally runs 10 years. proximately $270 million was re­ of the fight the unions waged, up until the closing days of the cam­ Japan's Ministry of Transpor­ quested by the shipbuilding Governments of 40 nations as­ paign, it appeared that the point of view of working people would sist their fleets obtain cargo tation runs the Ship Research In­ industry for government-guaran­ prevail and the House of Representatives would defeat the plan. But, through bilateral cargo sharing or stitute which had an operating teed loans. Another $712 miUion as it was reported in the press, the administration kept winning over in­ budget of $6 million in 1991. The was requested fiom the govern­ restricted access treaties. dividual members of Congress with various promises and in the end Thirty-eight nations extend country also budgeted another ment for shipyard restructuring and patched together enough votes to pass NAFTA. This by no means diminishes the valiant effort and leadership role aid in the form of tax benefits to $10.7 i^lion in 19W for research investment loans. their merchant fleets. Financing on vessels planned for production of the AFL-CIO and its member unions in behalf of American The country has a law in place during the start of the 21st Century. allowing all research and develop­ is extended in 22 nations. workers. Nor does it diminish the courage and convictions of the members of the House and Senate who opposed NAFTA. In announcing the release of Germany Funds Research ment investments for facilities and One man who did himself proud was Representative David Bonior the report. Transportation Half a world away, the nation equipment to be eligible for an ac­ (D-Mich.). He is the House Whip, the third-ranking position in the Secretaiy Federico Pena said the of Germany, like the vast celerated-depreciation allowance chamber, and serVed as the leader of the anti-NAFTA forces. Rep. study places into perspective the majority of European nations, or tax credit Bonior worked night and day to protect the interests of all working efforts being made by his depart­ Taiwan Protects Industry people and he deserves our gratitude and admiration. Another elected ment to strengthen America's emphasizes its shipbuilding sec­ tor and reserves coastal trade to official has earned our respect is Representative Richard Gephardt, Regarding cargo preference, maritime industries. The head of the House Majority Leader, who acted as the conscience of the vessels of their national-flag fleet. Taiwan generally grants the car­ MarAd, Vice Admiral Albert J. Democratic Party in opposing the treaty. Fellow European nations, like goods to nariage of certain bulk Herbeiger (Ret), added the survey The AIT.-CIO also did itself proud in its battle. AFL-CIO Presi­ shows Ae "highly competitive" na­ 'inland and Italy, also restrict ional-flag companies that dent Lane Kirkland and Secretary-Treasurer Tom Donahue and their coastal trade to vessels flying the maintain liner services. Major team of staff people waged a vigorous battle. They took on the richest, ture of the worldwide maritime in­ n^onal flag.) dustry faced by the U.S.-flag import shipments are planned the most powerful and the most influential of our society and never let up. merchant fleet The nation subsidizes under the supervision of the The AFL-CIO and the unions proved that in the final analysis the MarAd chose to contact nations shipyards that construct German- Central Trust' of China with first American worker has only one re iable, dependable, around-the-clock whose coastal shores connect to an lag vessels that will sail in the priority given to vessels con­ defender and that is the American trade union movement. The lesson international waterway and whose domestic trades. Germany h^ structed under a measure for joint to be learned from this is that if it were not for American trade unions, shipping industries maintain at agreed to the European Com­ development of trade, shipping there would be no one to put up a tough battle in behalf of American least 50 national-flag vessels with a munity (EC) directive to limit working men and women and their families. It is an object lesson to lift capacity of 1,000 deadweight shipyard subsidies to nine percent and shipbuilding. tho^ who question what role unions perform. Second priority for cargo goes tons or more. Information was direct and indirect aid for con­ The effort of the unions brought the issue of trade to every work­ ing person's attention. We think that in this process, the way in which gathered by directly contacting the tracts entered into during 1992 to vessels registered in Taiwan trade is handled has changed forever. Trade deals are no longer a various nations' maritime repre­ and 1993. However, the nation and the third priority then is given secret pastime of foreign lobbyists or a game of manners for govern­ sentatives as well as through the received permission from the EC to vessels not falling into the first ment bureaucrats. Today, more and more Americans understand that U.S. State Department's Maritime to grant up to a 36 percent subsidy two categories. trade is the property of every citizen, for every citizen can be either a and Land Transport Office and the For contracts signed before the When new vessel construction winner or loser under each trade agreement. Today it is clear the na­ Economic and Commercial Of­ end of 1993 for ships to be built is plaimed by Taiwanese com­ tion has a responsibility to balance any trade arrangements with job ficers at U.S. Embassies and otho" in yards on the grounds of the panies, they must first contact opportunities for its citizens. Foreign Service posts. Former East Germany. domestic shipyards to see if they Certainly the AFL-CIO and its unions will keep this situation in focus Germany's Ministry of are capable of handling the Japan's Extensive Loans and inform working Americans and union memb^ as to what develops Transportation and Ministry of project. MarAd's report of Japanese from NAFTA and from other trade deals under considoation. This is a government support to its ship­ matter that is far too important to tuck away on a shelf. The later move­ ping and shipbuilding sector Holding Up the Verrazano Bridge ment is going make sure this debate stays tont and center. revealed a dizzying array of 1994 Best Wishes programs designed to aid and In this last month of the old year, I want to take the opportunity to build up those industries. Among extend a holiday greeting in behalf of the union to each Seafarer, ac­ the programs are cargo tive or retired, and his or her family. We wish you a happy and a preference laws and a govern­ prosperous New Year. May 1994 bring each of you many good times. ment-run company to provide loans for shipbuilding. Under Japanese law, foreignDecember 1993 Volume 55. Number 12 flag vessels are excluded from the domestic trade. Crews are re­ The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 0160-2047) is published quired to be 100 percent monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Japanese. Vessels plying in the Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District; AFL-CIO; 5201 domestic trade must be owned by Auth Way; Camp Springs, Md. 20746. Telephone (301) Japanese citizens. 899-0675. Second-class postage paid at MSC Prince Japan is home to the largest Georges, Md. 20790-9998 and at additional mailing shipbuilding industry in die world. offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the The nation provides various means Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, Md. to assi^ the industry. 20746. The government of Japan runs a company called the Maritime Communications Department Director, Jessica Smith; Credit Corporation (MCQ that en­ Bosun Horse Moss may be the first man to single-handedly hold Managing Editor, Daniel Duncan; Associate Editors, Jor­ courages theJ>uilding of ships for up New York's Verrazano Bridge. This photo of the Texas native dan Biscardo and Corrina Christensen; Associate the coastal ^^."THe MCC estab­ was taken by C.J. Sandyaboard the Sea-Land Perfdimance. Editor/Production, Deborah A Hirtes; Art, Bill Brower. !> /. / /• �•X^: DECEMBER 1993 SEAFARil^LOe V".'> 3 -I" House Stands Up For U.S. Shipping Bill to Revitalize Maritime Passes by 347-65 Vote '• 'Sift The House of Representatives the U.S.-flag maritime industry to showed its strong support for the be considered and passed by the U.S.-flag merchant fleet when it House since the Merchant Marine voted 347-65 in favor of legisla­ Act of 1970. Flanked by presidents from affiliated unioris, AFL-CIO President Lane tion to revitalize the industry. Kirkland denounces NAFTA's passage at a press conference in The vote, held November 4, Excerpts of Remarks Washington. immediately followed the On the Maritime Bill chamber's overpowering rejec­ By House Members tion by a 309-109 margin of an Appear on Page 10. amendment designed to limit the amount U.S.-flag shipping com­ H.R. 2151 also creates a new panies can charge to transport Series Transportation Program to government-impelled cargo. (See. help U.S. shipyards build vessels story on page 11.) The Maritime that are price-competitive on the Security and Competitiveness world market. Act of 1993 (H.R. 2151) now "This is a'tremendous show of goes before the Senate. The labor movement, con­ trade, with democratic values or support for the U.S.-flag mer­ gressmen and others who oppose the openings up of consumer H.R. 2151 outlines a $1.2 bil­ chant marine by the House," said the North American Free Trade markets in Mexico." lion, 10-year program to provide SIU President Michael Sacco. Rather, he said, its goal is to operating sub­ Agreement (NAFTA) expressed "Much of the credit for this vic­ disappointment and reiterated "protect the property patents and sidies for a tory has to go to Seafarers and their warnings that NAFTA will profits of U.S. corporations that proposed their families who contacted their cost hundreds of thousands of will locate facilities in Mexico" Maritime individual representatives to seek American jobs and will severely where they intend to escape the Security Fleet. their votes." damage the environment, follow­ conditions of life and labor in the The bill does not Also pointing out the sig­ ing the November 17 vote in U.S. provide a nificance of the vote was the "The fight to keep and im­ specific number which the U.S. House of Repre­ United States Maritime Coali­ sentatives approved the trade prove these standards," Kirkland of ships that tion, an advocacy group made up said, "will not be slowed by this would be in- ~ deal, 234 votes to 200. of citizens' organizations, In a press conference follow­ defeat... The AFL-CIO will con­ eluded in the "eP-Studds patriotic groups, U.S.-flag ship­ ing the House vote, AFL-CIO trive to be in the forefront of the fleet, but published reports es­ ping companies, maritime unions President Lane Kirkland pointed struggle to ensure that trade be­ timate the figure to be between 50 and shipyards. nations benefits and 70 vessels. It is the first major out that NAFTA "has little to do tween "Members of the coalition with national interests, with free Continued on page 11 piece of legislation dealing with worked hard to ensure passage of h! ytake at HJ^A, HgM for Fair Hade Hot Oven Kirklattd this measure," said James Henry, president of the coalition, which formed in September. "This was the first major vote concerning maritime since the coalition formed. We were able to speak with one strong, united voice, and it helped." 'Right Bill, Right Time' In presenting the bill for debate on the House floor, Representative Gerry Studds (D-Mass.), the chair­ man of the House Merchant Marine and Fisheries Committee, said, "This is the right bill, this is the right time and this is the right place to do the right thing for not Rep. Fields only the U.S. maritime industries, but for our nation's economic and national security." Studds was joined by Repre­ sentative Jack Fields (R-Texas), the ranking minority member of the Merchant Marine and Fisheries Committee, who pointed out how the merchant marine had played a valuable role Peddles Tickets to Cargo Conference Under False Pretenses In an attempt to sell tickets to what was billed as a bulk shipping conference scheduled in New York on November 15 and 16, the Journal of Commerce and an agency promoting the use of foreign registries advertized their production as an anti U.S. seamen, anti U.S. flag seminar. The so-called Dry Bulk Transpo '93 Conference was sponsored by the nation­ al shipping and transportation newspaper. The Journal of Commerce. Although no mention of another or­ ganization was made in the conference advertisements, it was later revealed that the newspaper had contracted the ser­ vices of International Marketing Strategies (IMS), an organization that promotes foreign registries. IMS describes itself as "a specialized publishing, public relations and market­ ing corporation committed to the globalization of capital and policy in the promotion of free trade...." In touting its newsletter on runaway-flag registries; IMS tells the shipowner, "If you're not using open registries[,] your competitors probably are. You should explore your options and choose carefully from among the different flags." Appealing to Prejudice In a move designed to up attendance and appeal to groups opposed to U.S. shipping, IMS prepared advertisements and The Journal of Commerce ran the propaganda. The ads, which play on baseless prejudice, dish out the tired old arguments about wages of American seamen and cargo preference. One ad proclaims in bold headline type: "If the rationale for subsidizing U.S. flag ships is because they serve a defense ne^ then why should a cook on a private vessel make more dian a Navy captainT' The ad attributes the quote to Sen. Charles Grassley (R-Iowa) then says, "If this kind of thinking affects you, you should be in New York on November 15th and 16th for The Journal of Commerce's Dry Bulk Conference."' The other advertisement states, 'These preference ships would not exist without a subsidy program. And, if they did not, who would miss them? Certain­ ly not the military and not the commer­ cial markets." The statement is assigned to Rob Quartel, an employee of a runaway-flag shipping operation. The price of admission to the two-day conference was $495.00. SIU President Michael Sacco took the matter to Journal of Commerce Presi­ dent and Publisher Don Becker, saying the ads were "entirely misleading" and based on "misrepresentations and propagandistic statements made by two avowed enemies of the American-flag shipping industry." Sacco noted that in no way did he ob­ ject to "the right of anyone to express at­ titudes different from those I represent." Rather, he said, "it is the deceitful way in which the conference has been promoted to which I object." Becker informed Sacco the ads were "prepared by an outside consultant" (meaning IMS) and that he "was not aware in advance" of the content. Two speakers scheduled for the con­ ference canceled their participation in the event in protest of the ads. Ernest J. Corrado, president of the American Institute of Merchant Ship­ ping, a ^oup representing U.S. shipping companies, advised EMS that he was withdrawing. He said some of AIMS member groups found the ad statements attacking the "government-impelled cargo preference program" to be "er­ roneous, misleading and totally inap­ propriate." iH,- ; •-"A • I I• t•T • Continued on page 11 New-Low Anti U.S. Ship Group ••'A:. • i' X. :U From The Journal of Commerce "IF THE RATIONALE FOR SUBSIDIZING U.S. FLAG SHIPS IS BECAUSE THEY SERVE A DEFENSE NEED, THEN WHY SHOULD A COOK ON A PRIVATE VESSEL MAKE MORE THAN ANAVYCAPTAlNr "THESE PREFERENCE SHIPS WOULD NOT EXIST WITHOUT. A SUBSIDY PROGRAM. AND, IF THEY DID NOT WHO WOULD MISS THEM? CERTAINLY NOT THE MILITARY AND NOT THE COMMERCIAL MARKETS.'^ •'' V-A CLIUtC* 21 H this Kind ot thinkingaffects you., you shodd be m New Yorti onNowerrber 15th and 1em for The Joumaiof Comrnerca s Dry Buk Conference. Fax 203^-t929 tor fullregistrafion detaiis. 'or TheJourrai o( "ovemtw, 150. and 161I1 i The propagandistic way the Journal of Commerce advertised its dry bulk conference appears above. The large quarter page ads, run November 5 (left) and November 8, were prepared by a firm that promotes foreign registries. That company was hired by the newspaper to stage the event. Corrado added, "... to appear in the Dry Bulk Transpo '93 symposium in the circumstances of the ads would, to my mind, be an act of disloyalty" to the U.S.flag shipping industry. After seeing the first ad, Talmage E. Simpkins, executive vice president and treasurer of the Labor Management Com­ mittee, a group representing shipowners with labor contracts with the National Maritime Union, informed IMS that under no circumstances would he par­ ticipate in a conference promoted in such an irresponsible manner. The advertisements provoked a demonstration from SIU rank-and-file members. Fifteen Seafarers passed out leaflets protesting the ads "misrepresentational headlines" to conference par­ ticipants on the first morning of the event. The advertisements leave the ques­ tion as to why the conference was con­ voked in the first place. What was established by the ads, in the view of many people in the maritime in­ dustry, is that the integrity of The Journal of Commerce was com­ promised and consequently the quality of the newspaper. • J.:-' - .v' r �4 r > , '' K, DECEMRER1993 SEAFARERS LOG Coast Guard Outlines Plans For Mariner Card Renewal renewing z-cards and licenses, a fee of $45 to evaluate applica­ the Coast Guard will use the date tions of renewal for mariners the document was issued for with endorsements. If this comes to pass, an AB those processed before 1991. The date of issuance is located or QMED who has been sailing on the back of a z-card, to the regularly and wants to renew his or her document would be charged right of the thumb print. Any documents issued in $80 under the proposed plan. When a mariner renews a zyears ending in 4 or 9 must be renewed during 1994 to remain card with more than one endorse­ active. Documents issued in ment, the Coast Guard proposes years ending in 5 or 0 must renew to charge only one evaluation fee during 1995. For those issued in of $45. The same single-time fee years 1 or 6, renewal must take will apply to mariners who submit place in 1996. For years ending in a license, z-card or certificate of 2 or 7, renewal has to be done in registiy (used by medical person­ 1997. For documents issued in nel and pursers) for renewal at the years ending in 3 or 8, renewal same time. However, if a mariner holds must take place in 1998. For example, a member more than one Coast Guard-is­ whose z-card was issued on July sued document and applies to 10, 1969 would have to renew renew them at separate times, his or her document by July 10, the Coast Guard will charge 1994 if the proposed rule goes separate evaluation fees of $45 into effect. Members who have when the renewal applications received new or upgraded docu­ are received. The Coast Guard also plans ments since 1991 already have a renewal date stamped on both the to apply an examination fee of front and back of their z-cards. $40 to mariners holding z-cards The Coast Guard also out­ with endorsements if recent ser­ lined its plans for charging vice requirements are not met. mariners to renew their docu­ The agency defines recent ser­ Create Schedule vice requirements as providing The Coast Guard is seeking ments. The costs range from $35 proof of one year sailing time to create a five-year schedule for to renew a z-card with no endorse­ within the previous five years. renewal of documents and licen­ ments (such as an ordinary seaman Should a person wish to ses beginning next year. All or wiper) to as high as $120. return to sailing after coming In breaking down the costs, documents and licenses would ashore for more than five have to be renewed by 1998 if a the federal agency plans to years—^as happened during the charge an issuance fee of $35 for mariner plans to sail. Persian Gulf war—a mariner To determine the date for all renewals. It also is proposing would have to pay the $35 renewal issuance fee, the $45 ap­ plication evaluation fee and an ad­ ditional $40 examination fee covering the qualified rating sought. This would amount to $120. Under the Coast Guard's proposal for merchant mariner's docu­ Merchant mariner's docu­ ments must be renewed eveiy five years and certain testing standards and fees will be assigned to the renewal process, according to the U.S. Coast Guard. In a preliminary proposal outlined in the Federal Register of September 16, the Coast Guard seeks to begin a program of renewing z-cards and mariner licenses every five years begin­ ning in 1994. The Department of Transportation agency also wants to charge mariners for documents when they are renewed or upgraded. Responding to the proposed rulemaking, the SIU restated to the Coast Guard its strong op­ position to any fees being charged for z-cards or licenses in its comments to the Coast Guard. The Seafarers, along with four other maritime unions and five individual mariners, filed in U.S. District Court in April a suit to stop the Coast Guard from collecting money when the agency issues or upgrades z-cards and licenses. Proposed Dates For Z-Card Renewals . ment renewals, all z-cards will have to be updated by 1998. The federal agency has outlined a plan based on the issuance date of documents obtained before 1991. The date of issuanceis located on the back of the z-card to the right of the thumb print. Since 1991, z-cards have been issued with expiration dates posted on both the front and back of the documents.) The following chart shows the year that merchant mariner's documents, in order to remain active, must be renewed based on issuance dates. The exact date of expiration matches the month and day of issuance. Renewal Year 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 Issuance Year 1989 1984 1979 1974 1969 1964 1959 1954 19491944 1939 1990 1985 1980 1975 1970 1965 1960 1955 1950 1945 1940 1991 1986 1981 1976 1971 1966 1961 1956 1951 1946 1941 1992 1987 1982 1977 1972 1967 1962 1957 1952 1947 1942 1937 1993 1988 1983 1978 1973 1968 1963 1958 1953 1948 1943 1938 a'. Source: FederalRegister, September 16,1993 'Flawed Data' The SIU charged the Coast Guard followed "the same fa­ cially flawed data and methodol­ ogy it employed to calculate fees for origind [z-cards] and original and renewed licenses." The union added, "This un­ fair work tax unfairly burdens American merchant seamen and boatmen who already face dif­ ficult economic times as a result of earning their livelihoods in a merchant marine that badly needs revitalizing." Before announcing im­ plementation of the program, the Coast Guard will study the com­ ments it has received todetermine if a public hearing or a need for revision of the plan is needed. Chief Cook Michael Hammock presents a freshly baked,farewell cake to the seven Cuban refugees and members of the ITB Grotoncrew before the ship's arrival in St. Croix. m GroUm Rescues 7 Cuban Refugees Seafarers aboard the ITB in secret so that no one would Graron rescued seven refugees 30 discover their intention to flee miles north of Cubia adrift on a Sagua La Grande Villa, Cuba," raft during twilight October 19. Deloatch told a reporter from the According to reports from Seafarers LOG. "They had even sewn the crewmembers, the vessel was sailing to the Hess Oil terminal in names, address and phone num­ St. Croix, V.I. after offloading bers of their relatives in Florida cargo in "Tampa, Fla. Around 7 into the collars of their shirts." Crewmembers provided the p.m. AB Patrick Rawley, who was standing watch, spotted an Cubans with clean clothes and hot meals prepared by the galley object in the distance. Using binoculars. Captain gang. '"They thought the food was Nicholas Colavito and crewmem­ excellent. They told us that they bers determined that what they had never had such amounts or saw was actually a group of in­ quality. In Cuba they were given dividuals adrift on a raft, wildly a few pounds of rice per month and a very minimal amount of waving their arms. It took the Groton ap­ meat," said the 36-year member proximately 15 minutes to turn of the SIU, who also provided the around and reach the raft, which LOG with the photo accompany­ consisted of eight inner-tubes tied ing this article. "The entire crew worked very* together with pieces of steel. Once the vessel reached the raft, well together to bring the crewmembers lowered a Jacob's refugees aboard. It was a wonder­ ladder and brought all seven ful feeling to help these people Cubans safely aboard the in­ who clearly just wanted a better tegrated tug-barge. The entire life for themselves in America," rescue operation took the crew a Deloatch recalled. The Cubans stayed on board little over an hour. "The group had been at sea for with the crew for four days until seven days and had not eaten food the vessel sailed into St. Croix, or drunk water for five days," said vvhere the seven refugees were Recertified Steward Marvin turned over to federal authorities. Deloatch, who sails from the port "They told us that they would of New York. "When setting out write the ship once settled in with from Cuba that first night, they their families in Miami, but we only packed two air pumps, water, probably won't ever hear from salt, lemons and raw fish." them. It is just another successful TTie chief steward noted DEU rescue by a SIU ship," noted the Angel Bruno acted as an inter­ recertified steward. preter between the crew and the The 692-foot-long integrated refugees, who spoke only tug-barge, operated by Sheridan Spanish. '"They told us that it had Transportation out of New York, taken them eight months of plan­ transports petroleum products be­ ning and building to escape from tween the Hess Oil terminal in St. Cuba. They built their raft and Croix and various ports along the made plans in the woods at night East Coast. OMI Charger's Captain Commencis Crew fer Ceurageous Conduct The captain of the OMI Charger xectniXy commended the vessel's crewmembers for their courageous actions immediately following a fatal explosion aboard the tanker on October 9 near the Houston Ship Channel. "As a result of the explosion, there were many displays of courage, humanity and duties well done," Master Wayne Nason wrote. "I would like to officially commend the crewmembers, whose deeds I have direct knowledge of. . . . They did not panic and all obeyed orders. If I am proud of anything, I am proud of the fact that hb one was lost of hurt after the explosion occurred." Nason then provides brief ac­ counts of the actions of several officers and Seafarers. He specifically mentions AB Jimmie Scheck, OMU Daniel Campbell ant! OMU Andrew Lopez. Details Action Scheck "went to his fire sta­ tion and assisted Third Mate Ziegler with the hose and at­ tempting to fight the fire. Jimmie then assisted Chief Mate Wren in pulling the pumpman off the main deck and got him to the stem for evacuation. Jimmie was ordered to evacuate. He was, as he always was onboard, an outstanding and fearless seaman." The captain pointed put that Campbell "went to his fire station in the engine room and had the presence of mind to close down the fire pump recirculating valve to give the deck more pressure on the fire main. He assisted... until he was ordered to abandon ship." Of Lopez, Nason wrote, "He tied down the hot work fire hose to continue a stream on the flames. He, too, only left the deck when ordered to abandon ship." The captain added, "I am sure there were others who performed well and I do not mean to slight anyone." The circumstances leading to the accident aboard the Charger still are being investigated by the U.S. Coast Guard and the Nation­ al Transportation Safety Board. Through interviews with Charter crewmembers, federal officials have confirmed that the blast was sparked by a welding torch used in an empty cargo tank by a member of an International Marine Services, Inc. riding crew. The agencies still are trying to determine when and how the potentially explosive atmosphere was produced. recently told the Seafarers LOG that it may take several months to wrap up the investigation. Meanwhile, the Charger—a 660-foot tanker which burned for more than five hours after the severe explosion—has been sold for scrap. Seafarer Perishes Correction The blast claimed the lives of three men:Seafarer Milton "Wil­ lie" Williams, who was sailing as a pumpman; and Keith Kelly and Roger Boutwell of the riding crew. Amazingly, only one other person, the third member of the riding crew, suffered serious in­ juries. Mike Buzbee sustained bums to his face and hands. A Coast Guard spokesperson Due to a typographical error, an article in the Novem­ ber issue of the Seafarers LOG incorrectly listed the age of late SIU member Milton "Willie" Williams, the QMED/pumpman who died in an explosion aboard the OMI Charger on October 9. Brother Williams was 46 years old. I.: �- DECEMBER 1993 SEAFARERS LOG 5 Tuberculosis Program Begins January 1 in Sill Ciinics The Seafarers International migration to the U.S. of people Because Seafarers live in close Union—Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes frorn countries with a high in­ quarters and deal with the same and Inland Waters District—and cidence of the disease and trans- people every day for an extended the Seafarers Welfare Plan will mission among persons in period of time. Miller noted that begin implementing a tuber­ crowded living environments. the SIU feels it should examine culosis (TB) research and control the possible effect of tuberculosis The Airborne Disease program in all SIU clinics as of on those who sail the world's TB is a disease spread by January 1,1994 to rapidly address germs called tubercle bacilli thai waterways. the national re-emergence of the can float in the air. The germs are TB Testing Important disease and protect union mem­ spread if a person infected with The 1994 TB screening pro­ bership. active tuberculosis Of the lungs The program, to be put into coughs or sneezes into the air. gram will take place in every SIU place by the Seafarers Welfare The TB bacteria are so tiny thai clinic throughout the United Plan medical department, is they dry out and float on air cur­ States. It will require members to designed to accumulate data in rents for long periods in an fill out a simple questionnaire order to research effects on enclosed space. TB germs are not (which will include such ques­ Seafarers of the disease. The new likely to be transmitted through tions as age, place of birth and program will require a painless personal items associated with in­ places of travel, as well as family skin test at the time of a member's fected individuals, such as cloth- and personal history of tuber­ annual 1994 physical to identify ing, bedding, toilet seats, culosis) and submit to a skin test. The skin test on the arm is the if the Seafarer has been exposed showers, drinking glasses, eating only way to tell if a person has to TB. The main objective of such materials or any other items a per­ been exposed to the germs as­ a prdgram is to protect SIU mem­ son with the clinical disease may sociated with tuberculosis. When bers from the disease by testing have touched. goes into an SIU clinic a Seafarer for possible exposure to TB "It is very important to note for his or her annual examination, germs. that this is not a disease that is "The SIU tuberculosis pro­ easily transmitted or rapidly in­ a clinic physician will use a small gram will test Seafarers at the fectious. The skin test might needle to put testing material, time of their annual physical to reveal that a person may have called tuberculin, under the skin see if they have been exposed to been exposed to someone with of the forearm. In 48-72 hours, the someone with active TB at any TB 10 or 15 years ago, but they member will return to the SIU time in the past," Dr. Kenneth may never develop the active dis­ clinic, and the test on the forearm is examined to determine if there Miller, director of the Seafarers ease," said Miller. American Lung Association is a reaction. Seiafarers may pick Welfare Plan medical depart­ ra germs are not transmitted up their renewed clinic card at the This photograph shows a normal chest X-ray. Had there been any ment, told a reporter from the through casual contact. A person sign of tuberculosis, a spot would have appeared on one of the lungs. Seafarers LOG. "If they have must be in close contact for a long time the skin test is read. The test is positive if a bump been exposed, treatment may be period of time with an infected the size of a pencil eraser or big­ is found to have active TB, then tibiotic known as INK to take necessary, but that will be up to individual to become affected by he or she will not be permitted to once per day for six months. This the member and his or her per­ the germ. Miller stressed that ger appears on the arm where the ship out until the infection is preventive treatment takes at least sonal physician to determine. We even in this case, only 10 percent tuberculin was placed. This treated. However, a positive skin six months to a year to kill all the are basically concerned about the will go on to develop active tuber­ means that the person may have test does not necessarily mean tuberculosis germs. A person may been exposed to the TB germ and current rise of TB and want to culosis. continue to have TB bacteria in may require preventive treatment that the Seafarer has active TB. protect our members by taking "The program will determine his or her body unless eliminated Most people who breathe in to avoid getting ^e full disease at every precautionary measure pos­ the bacteria do not become in­ with the proper medication. a later time. (Seafarers receive if an individual has been exposed sible." fected when exposed to TB. Of chest X-rays as part of their an­ to TB in the past. Based upon this "A person with a latent infection The TB Rise those who do, most do not nual physicals which also are determination, the individual and will be eligible to ship out with develop the active disease, but the used to determine the extent of Ws or her own doctor will decide the understanding that he or she is Tuberculosis, inactive for whether or not any further treat­ responsible for taking the germs can lie dormant in the cells TB exposure.) many years in the United States, ment is required," Miller stated. prescribed medications as is once again on the rise. The Na­ lining the lungs where the body "Seafarers should not wait directed by the doctor," noted tional Institute of Allergy and In­ may store them. The body's im­ until the last minute before get­ Decision for Treatment fectious Diseases (NIAID), a mune system traps the bacteria ting their clinic card renewed be­ The Centers for Disease Con­ Miller. federal health agency involved in with special germ fighters. From cause this TB skin test is going to trol and Prevention (CDC) has es­ Protection for Seafarers the research and development of this point on, a lifelong balance take a few days. Individuds need tablished a specific set of The SIU medical department is guidelines for treatment of infec­ between the infection and the to plan in advance and give them- guidelines used to determine moving quickly to deal with any tious diseases, cites various human body's defense against the selves enough time," noted whether or not a person needs to potential threat to the membership reasons for the resurgence of TB. infection continues. An in­ Miller." through , precautionary measures begin preventive therapy. Reasons stated by the agency dividual who has dormant TB Among the items checked by such as early detection and collec­ for the tuberculosis revival in­ bacteria in his or her lungs is not A Positive Test doctors are the size of the reaction tion of data to better analyze any clude the emergence of drug- contagious. Only those with ac­ Seafarers will receive only the to the skin test, age and medical trends or circumstances relating to resistant strains of the organism tive TB who remain untreated are TB skin test and initial chest X- history of the patient and if the Seafarers and the disease. causing the disease, increased im­ capable of infecting others. The TB screening program ray in the SIU clinic. If a Seafarer individual is part of a high risk will remain in effect throughout tests positive, he or she should group. Based on this criteria, a doctor 1994. In 1995, the medical seek advice and treatment from a personal physician who knows will make the decision whether department will examine the data collected to determine if tuber­ his or her past medical histoiy and treatment is necessary. If deemed necess^, an in­ culosis is of significant concern can determine what is best for that particular individual. If a Seafarer dividual will be prescribed an an­ for Seafarers. •/•ri. • •• • V.v" ' '' •-VAI:.- -• - - Fighting the Fiu Bug in Seattie A nurse measures the size of the skin reaction to a TB test ad­ ministered on the forearm, like the ones Seafarers will begin taking with their annual physicals in January. i' .-r- v. i. ' , . The skin test is positive if a bump the size of a pencil eraser or bigger appears on the arm where the tuberculin was placed, as shown above. Seafarers in the port of Seattle,including Chief Cook Veronica Cardenas (left) and Recertified Steward Gerald Shirley, take advantage of flu shots offered by the Virginia Mason Clinic, which serces as the preferred provider organization (PPO) of the Seafarers Welfare Plan in the Northwest U.S. Staff members from the Seattle PPO came to the union hall to administer the inoculations. 1 �DfiCiEMVfff fM3 6 SUFMERSLOa Member^ip MeeUna Dates Set hir 1994 continue staying up-to-date in 1994 by attending the monthly meetings at their respective ports. Article" XXIII of the SIU ConstitutioTwice a year at the member­ ship meeting in Piney Point, the union recognizes its newest recertified bvosuns Pictured an deals exclusively with union meetings. The article sets out where and when meetings are conducted and who should run them. The Preamble also notes the importance when ashore of attending meetings to serve the union for those who are at sea and therefore cannot attend. ". . . Bearing in mind that we are migratory, that our work takes us away in different directions from any place where the majority might otherwise meet to act, that meetings can be attended by only a fraction of the membership, that the absent members who cannot be present must have their interests guarded from what might be the results of excitement and passions aroused by persons or conditions, and that those who are present may act for and in Twice a year at the membership meeting in the interest of all." Members are asked to clip the schedule Piney Point, the union recognizes its newest recertified bosuns, like Monte below and post it on their ships or keep it Pereira, above. for personal reference throughout the year. Maritime reform and the future of U.S.flag shipping... updates on the new standard contract... the battle oyer inland documen­ tation ... the SIU's fight to prohibit charg­ ing merchant seamen and boatmen for their z-cards.... These are just some of the topics covered this past year during monthly membership meetings conducted at SIU halls throughout thecountry. Seafarers can AB Carson Jordan asks a question pertaining to seatime changes in the new contract during a recent meeting in the Philadelphia hall. Members listen to reports on shipping, their benefits plan and upcoming elections. 1994 Membership Meetings * Port Traditional Date Piney Point Monday after first Sunday New York Tuesday after first Suriday Philadelphia Wednesday after first Sunday Baltimore Thursday after first Sunday Norfolk Thursday after first Sunday Jacksonville Thursday after first Sunday SanJuan Thursday after first Sunday Algonac Friday after first Sunday 7 11 khHiston Monday after second Sunday 10 ^..•:.\14: New Orleans Tuesday after second Sunday 11 15 15 12 10 Mobile Wednesday after second Sunday 16 16 13 Duluth Wednesday after second Sunday 12 16 16 San Francisco Thursday after s^pr^JSi^^ n St. Louis Friday after second Sunday 14 Friday after second Sunday 14 Wilmington Monday after third Sunday 18* New Bedford Tuesctey after third Sunday 1 Jersey City Seattle January February March April May 7 7 4-.: '""p2. .1 8 8 5 4 6 10 • 10 10 7 10 V"-?:, • 10 7 10 18 22* 11 • 8 •^ November December 8 9 5 r- 8 6 9 7 11 8 6 10 9 i.:' 11 8 6 10 8 9 7 11 8 6 10 8 6 10 8 7 14* 9 -9. 6 September October 5 •• •; August 7 5 5 July • 6 3 9 6 June 4 6 8 9 7 : 10 6 11 8 8 12 9 11 15 12 14 12 16 13 11 15 13 11 :,:%15:V-- 13 14 12 16 14 13 11 15 13 17 14 12 16 14 17 14 12 14 ;•' 18: 15 13 18 15 13 17 15 19 16 14 18 16 :v, 18 15 13 17 15 19 16 14 18 16 21 18 16 20 18 23* 19 17 21 19 19 17 21 19 23 20 18 22 20 20 18 22 20 24 21 19 23 21 20 24 22 26 23 21 25 23 14, Wednesday after third Sunday 19 23 23 Fridayafter thirdSunday 21 25 25 13 •; . 10 •:-12-''' 15 • r Piney Point changes created by New Year's Day, Independence Day and Labor Day holidays; Algonac change created by Veterans Day holiday Wilminqton changes created by Martin Luther King's Birthday, Presidents' Day and Paul Hall Birthday holidays. �DECEMBER1993 SEAFARERS LOG 7 Foreign-Flag Ships Collide Near New Orleans •iVvT' The U.S. Coast Guard and the passengers and 542 crewmemNational Transportation Safety bers, received a 70-foot-wide Board (NTSB) are investigating a dent in its right side. Within the collision which took place near dent is a 30-foot gash roughly 10 New Orleans on November 6 be­ feet above the water line and a tween a cruise ship and a flag-of- smaller hole about two feet above convenience freighter which was the water line. carrying American grain to Russia. The larger gash cut into The hearing began in mid- several crewmembers' cabins, November, following a ruling by which were unoccupied at the federal Judge Martin Feldman time of the accident. denying a request by two officers The 654-foot ship, owned by from the Netherlands-Antilles- Holland America, also sustained flag passenger vessel Noordam damage on its right propeller who wanted to block the Coast shaft. A water main used for fire Guard from conducting the in­ protection and a sewage pipe quiry. were broken. Neither the Noordam nor the Part of the Mt. Ymitos' bow Greek-owned, Malta-flagged Mt. was knocked about 20 feet in­ Yrhitos had a pilot onboard when ward, while a hole was opened 15 the ships crashed into each other feet below the main deck. The at a 90-degree angle around 8:30 684-foot vessel, owned by Kassos p.m. at the mouth of the Missis­ Maritime Enterprises of Athens, sippi River's Southwest Pass. had loaded soybean meal in Con­ Visibility was clear at that time. vent, La. and was bound for Coast Guard Commander Tim Kaliningrad in Russia. According to press reports, Keegan told the New Orleans Times-Picayune. during the first days of the inves­ Miraculously, there were no tigation the captain of the Mt. serious injuries aboard either Ymitos, Giorgios Fragoulis, ship, although both vessels sus­ stated that he had taken a number tained major damage. The Noor­ of steps to avoid the collision but dam, which was carrying 1,188 was surprised when the cruise The Greek-owned, Malta-flagged Mt. Ymitos was carrying American grain to Russia at the time of the accident. •' .i--- U.S. Coast Guard photos by D.Schaefer The passenger vessel A/oordam suffered extensive damage when it collided with a flag-of-convenience ship last month at the mouth of the Mississippi River's Southwest Pass. ship changed course whilei the vessels were only a half-mile apart. Fragoulis also reportedly said that someone from the Noor­ dam contacted him by radio shortly after the accident and ac­ knowledged that the Noordam was at fault. > Amoldus Broekhoven, chief officer of the Noordam, denied that he or anyone else from the cruise ship had taken the blame. However, he and another officer from the Noordam reportedly said they did not see the Mt. Ymitos until about two minutes prior to the collision. Both vesselsstill were seawor­ thy after the accident but were taken to shipyards for damage as­ sessment. At press time, a spokesperson for the Coast Guard said the in­ vestigation was continuing. • Tc. . Cruise-Ship Crew 'Ran Like Deer' Crewmembers aboard a foreign-flag cruise ship reportedly left their passengers in the dark after the vessel collided with a flag-of-con­ venience freighter last month near New Orleans. According to reports in the New Orleans Times-Picayune, the crew of the NetherlandsAntilles-flagged Noordam let at least 30 minutes elapse following the collision on November 6 before anyone informed the passengers of what had happened. Although there were no serious injuries on either ship, the contact jolted everyone aboard both vessels. Yet the 1,188 cruise-ship passengers were left to guess about the severity of the accident. One articl#in the newspapef said that many passengers were "furious" regarding the initid response of the captain and crew. Passengers described the scene as "hysterical." One person was quoted as saying she has "nothing but contempt" for the captain because of the way he handled the situation. Another passenger said he was in the dining room when he saw deckhands and galley person­ nel— all wearing lifejackets — "running like deer" to lifeboat Stations, without communicating with any passengers. However, the crew found time to quickly drape tarps over the area of the ship which sus­ tained the most damage, the newspaper reported. Eventually the passengers disembarked from the Noordam a day later than originally scheduled. A spokesperson for Holland America, owner of the ship, told the Times-Picayune, "It's for­ tunate the accident occurred on the last day of their cruise. By that time, [the passengers] were pretty comfortable with the ship and cruising and everything." SlU Presses for Inland Safety Regs The SIU continues to push for captain and pilot are required to rating. The other bill before the sub­ legislation to improve safety con­ hold documents even though all ditions for boatmen working four crewmembers have naviga­ committee stems from the acci­ dent itself. The Towing Vessel along America's inland water­ tion responsibilities. Navigational Safety Act of 1993 Detailing the union's efforts ways (H.R. 3282) requires all inland since 1992 to pass legislation Two bills are under considera­ waterway vessels to be equipped tion by the House Coast Guard calling on boatmen to hold docu­ with marine charts, navigational and Navigation Subcommittee. ments, Terry Turner, SIU director The Inland Documentation Bill for legislative affairs, told the publications, compass, radar and Unseasonably mild weather In the Great Lakes region means the (H.R. 1915) calls for all boatmen subcommittee, "For the last two fathometer. opportunity for more work for vessels like the Walter J. McCarthy, sailing on inland waterways ves­ years, the SIU has insisted that a Not Fully Equipped pictured here steaming by the SIU hall In Algonac, Mich. sels of more than five gross tons potential catastrophe exists on the During the October 12, hear­ to hold Coast Guard-issued mer­ nation's inland waterways. No ing representatives heard tes­ chant mariner's documents (z- longer is this prophetic; the timony that the Mauvilla was not [Amtrak] Sunset Limited has equipped with marine charts, cards). made it all too real." This piece of legislation navigational tools or a compass. which was introduced earlier this Deep sea and Great Lakes The Coast Guard pointed out such year by Representative Gerry mariners possess z-cards. To ac­ equipment is not required by law No date for the closing of the year. Studds (D-Mass.), chairman of quire a merchant mariner's docu­ or agency regulations. "Last year a substantial num­ Soo Locks has been announced the House Merchant Marine and ment, the Coast Guard requires Subcommittee Chairman because of unseasonably mild ber of Great Lakes vessels, such Fisheries Committee — has evidence of a drug-free Billy Tauzin (D-La.) offered H.R. received additional attention urinalysis, check of the National 3282 the day after the hearing to weather in the Great Lakes as the large carriers, sailed into the first week of January. This is since the early morning Septem­ Driver Register for drunk-driving provide for the additional naviga­ region. a rare occurrence but we hope for Traditionally the locks close in ber 22 accident near Mobile, Ala. or controlled substance viola­ tional equipment. more of the same this year," the mid-December because of ice ac­ when an Amtrak passenger train tions, an FBI criminal record A union study of Coast Guard cumulation on Lakes Michigan, SIU official stated. ran off a bridge that had been background investigation, proof data from the late 1970s to midRivers and harbors along the struck moments before by a barge of U.S. citizenship or evidence of 1991 revealed the leading cause Superior and Huron. If mild Lakes generally start icing in the weather conditions continue, sail­ pushed by the MV Mauvilla. lawful entry and permanent for a majority (58 percent) of the ing could extend well into early autumn when the colder Forty-seven people lost their lives residency from the Immigration accidents on inland waterways weather moves south from the January. in the accident. Reports of the and Naturalization Service and was human factors. Meanwhile, Seafarers who sail on the Arctic. This year has been mild so investigation state the tug/barge proof of employment in the in­ aboard U.S.-flag vessels, 36 per­ Great Lakes have had "an excep­ far, and all projections for the got lost in a heavy fog, sailed into dustry or evidence of military ser­ cent of the accidents on the Great tionally good year," said Byron Great Lakes region point to the an unnavigable bayou and struck vice. Lakes were attributable to human Kelley, vice president of the weather pattern continuing. the unlit bridge. Two of the four Z-cards are renewed every factors with only 31 percent on SIU's Great Lakes region. Factors that contribute to the crewmembers aboard the five years. In order to receive an the deep seas. There are 25,777 Kelley recalled that the last closing include car^o dem^d Mauvilla did not carry z'^cards. advanced rating, such as able miles of navigable inland water­ two winters have been mild, and the weather conditions. which allowed Great Lakes ves­ "As the temperature drops so bodied seaman or tankermen, a ways. Union Noted Dangers sels to continue shipping opera­ does the demand for the cargo Action on both bills is ex­ In testimony before the sub­ boatman must pass a Coast Guard tions on the lakes into December carried along the lakes, such as committee on October 12, the examination that indicates pected to resume when Congress and occasionally into the new iron ore," said Kelley. SIU pointed out only the tug's [proficiency and knowledge of the returns to Washington in January. Gnat Lakes Ships CoaOnue Saillttg in Friendiy Weather V • -- • • . ('• • . 'f �r. 8 DECEMBER 1993 S8AFMERSL0G SlU-Creweil Williams Returns to States for Hull Inspection Seafarers aboard the Pfc decided to return to life at sea. replenishment and cargo and fuel Dwayne T. Williams worked hard Bosun Meier sailed aboard the transfers at sea to helicopter preparing the vessel for the Cape Canaveral, also an Amsea operations. Deck department shipyard as the militar vessel, during Fersian Gulf war. members also are instructed in The prepositioning ship is shipboard damage control, search prepositioning ship (MFS) sailec designed to fully ^uip Marine and rescue operations and into the United States for the first expeditionary brigades with familiarization with cranes and time in two years. The U.S. Navy-owned and enough ammunition and supplies forklift trucks. The Pfc. Dewayne T. Williams Amsea-operated vessel is sta for 30 days. The Williams was one of the ships which helped the is named for a U.S. Marine who tioned in the Facific islands Guam and Saipan. The SIU United States in its early rapid gave up his life in order to save crewed Williams sailed into Fort deployment of materiel to the the lives of his fellow soldiers. Williams smothered a grenade Everglades, Fla. where SIU Rep­ Fersian Gulf. The ship is part of the MFS with his body during action in resentative Ambrose Cucinotta serviced the vessel and found the program developed Under the South Vietnam in 1968. crew working diligently to clean Carter administration after the the ship for its biennid hull in failed Iranian hostage rescue at­ Bringing in the docking lines are ABs Rich Barnes, Ken Chinn, Mat spection and layup in Norfolk, tempt. Frepositioning vessels are Donovan and Rich Hilbert. Va. Later this month, the Wil­ designed to provide rapid military liams will re-load cargo in Jack­ deployment, complete with sup­ sonville, Fla. and begin the plies, to any hot spot in the world. voyage back to Guath through the The Williams is a roll-on/roll-off ship built in 1984 and carries Fanama Canal. Bosun Fred Meier sailec various military hardware such as aboard the Williams from Guam earthmovers, tanks, bulldozers, to Florida and played a vital part ammunition, food and water as in preparing the vessel for the well as fuel and other items needed to supply amphibious forces. shipyard. Special sealift classes are of­ "In getting the ship ready for the shipyard, we transported the fered at the Lundeberg School for gear down below the hatches and Seafarers aboard vessels like the checked the hatches and cranes to Williams. Upon completion of the make sure they were operating training, SIU members are able to SA Sharon Lee Herner organizes correctly. We worked hard, but handle any special operation re- he salad bar in the officers' mess underway tell before dinner is served. the Williams is an incredible ship quired—from and is one of the cleanest and prettiest that I have ever been on. Our crews keep it very well main­ tained with waxed decks and the whole nine yards," the bosun told a reporter from the Seafarers LOG. Reviewing the new standard agreement in the Seafarers LOG are (left "The crew was unbelievable to right) QMED Art Wadsworth, QMED Michael Stearman, Deck with eveiyone from the captain on Engine Utility Paul Charly Jr., QMED/Electrician Tony Muellersman down really working in complete and QMED/Pumpraan Fred Caltabiano. harmony. The food also was out­ standing, and the special meals that the galley gang prepared were al­ ways talked about," he added. Meier joined the Seafarers in 1990 in the port of Jacksonville. Frior to joining the union, he worked for the U.S. Coast Guard For the SIU's Government match, but the Navajo was up to for 26 years. He noted that once Services Division crewmem- the task, bringing the Ranger to he retired, he missed sailing and Operating the docking winch aboard the Williamsis Bosun Fred Meier. befs aboard the USNS Navajo, it the location where it will under­ was just another day on the job. go hull preservation before However, for any of the on­ being mothballed at the Bremer­ lookers from San Diego to Long ton Naval Shipyard in Beach, Calif., it was a seagoing Washington. chapter of the children's story, Operations aboard the "The Little Engine That Could." Navajo began before dawn. By The Navajo, a Military 5:30 a.m., the tugboat was in the Sealift Command-Pacific Fleet middle of San Diego harbor (MSCFAC) tugboat, was called awaiting the Ranger. The upon to tow the USS Ranger, an aircraft carrier was decommis­ aircraft carrier, up the California sioned earlier in the summer coast. The fleet tug displaces after 36 years of service. The only 2,260 tons of water while Ranger had served in nine com­ the Ranger displaces 64,000 bat missions from Vietnam to tons. Such a move had never Somalia. been attempted by an MSCFAC Navajo crewmembers The galley gang prepares a special lunch before the vessel goes into the shipyard. They are (left to right) fleet tug. worked as a team to secure the Cook/Baker Deborah Koen, Chief Steward Stephen Avallone, SA Danny Mergillano, SA Robert Russell The job appeared to be a mischain from the flight deck of the and Chief Cook Sal Tomeo. Ranger with 23/4-inch wire. Once done, the tow was under­ way. There were the iisual creaks and groans, but no wires snapped during the voyage. 'This was business as usual, except that this was really big business," noted Captain Mark Wilson, master of the Navajo. "It's amazing to watch how easy these guys make a very dif­ ficult and demanding job look," added Captain Bill Baldwin, MSCFAC marine,^ superinten­ dent who will take over as mastef of the tug next year. "It's easy to take what appears to be a routine job for granted, but that's never the case with Aese Crewmembers aboard the vessels. The crews of these USNS Navajo secure a line to ships deserve a lot of credit for tow the USS Ranger from San the work they perform every d£ ' ~ . >-If/ Diego to Long Beach, Calif. day." The Pfc. Dewayne T. Williams, docked in Port Everglades. Fla.. retums to the U.S. after two years. Aircratt Carrier Proves No Match for Navajo • J.;'? -.--r-T . - . V- �DECEMBER 1993 SEAFARERSLOG 9 Elevai Bosuas Advance to Top of De(dc Department Ipi|l?^-.'- r ' 'l' r-f'-.v;- •-,' i-;':-3.'>' VV^^'' '• 'WM Eleven Seafarers recently ad­ vanced to the top of the un­ licensed deck department when they completed the challenging bosun recertification course at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. The recertified bosuns, who graduated from the highest cur­ riculum available to SIU members sailing in the deck department, were recognized during the month­ ly membership meeting in Piney Point on November 8. The bosuns received rigorous training and testing in areas such as safety, navigation and com­ munications. Students and Instructors During the five-week course, the 11 Seafarers finished ad­ vanced classes in firefighting, safety and first aid as well as deck skill courses in wire-splicing, knot-tying and navigation. They practiced ship handling proce­ dures in the Lundeberg School's simulator, which reproduces sail­ ing conditions at sea and in ports worldwide. Additionally, the bosuns worked with trainees at the school, passing along some of the knowledge and experiences they have gained over the years. The bosuns also receiv^ spe­ cialized training in operations unique to military ships assigned to a sealift role. This includes the ing with any one of the bosuns in this class." Santiago, like Vargas, sails from the port of New York. He said, "It is a great program and I really enjoyed it. I enjoyed learn­ ing the CPR techniques and all the different aspects of the sealift course. The information that I learned through the program is very valuable and I will not hesitate to teach others on the ves­ sels I sail on." Thirty-seven-year-old Jessie Mixon was taken aback by the progress of the school. He had not been to Piney Point since he graduated from the trainee pro­ gram in 1974. "I am very im­ pressed with the progress that the school and the entire facilities have made since my last visit 19 years ago," said Mixon, who sails out of the port of New Orleans. Like Vargas and Santiago, Mixon noted that his favorite part of the course was the firefighting, Following graduation ceremonies, nhembers of the bosun recertification course pose for a photo with SIU CPR and first aid. "We learned officials. They are (from left, kneeling) Russell Barrack Jr., Felix Santiago, Jessie Mixon, (second row) Terry Dennis Cowans Sr., SIU Vice President Augie Tellez, Mark Lamar, SIU President Michael Sacco, skills that we all may use some­ Bert Gillis, Jim Rader, Frank Lyie, Giovanni Vargas, Francisco Munoz, Executive Vice President Joseph where besides a ship. They are skills everyone should be very Sacco and Walter Petty. familiar with," he noted. During his five-week stay, in both the school's facilities and "Overall, the entire recertifica­ the SIU's Tallying Committee in Mixon's wife came to visit, and its curriculum. He had not been to tion program was excellent anc Janua^ to count the ballots cast the couple toured the Piney Point since he upgraded to great fun. Our instructor. Bill by union members in voting for Washington, D.C. area. They at­ quartermaster in the late 1970s. Hellwege, really knew how to re­ the national officers of the SIU. tended celebration ceremonies on late to seamen, and his teaching Speaking during the gradua­ I'll be back for more. I don't the U.S. Capitol grounds as the tion ceremony, Bert Gillis, think I can ever get enough of this was top-of-the-line," said the 37place," said the 18-year member year-old Seafarer who ships from 1978 graduate of Piney Point, statue "Freedom" was raised back of the SIU, who currently sails out the port of Norfolk, Va. He also stressed the importance of be­ to the top of the Capitol dome encouraged others to "utilize the coming politically involved with after months of restoration. of San Francisco. Also included in the sealift school because it will do every­ the union. Gillis, 39, encouraged Mixon recalled that it was "a very course is what is known as search thing in the world for you." the trainees to "pay attention to historical day that I will never "We all worked well together the political aspects of the union forget." and rescue. The bosuns are Mark Lamar also had not trained in the operation of small and forged friendships that because it is very important. You boats in the event that a rescue or helped our progress through the are important. You are our fu­ been back to the school since his 1975 graduation as a Piney Point search for survivors of a dis­ program," rioted Walter Petty, ture." trainee. "The course as a whole tressed vessel at sea is necessary. 43, from the port of Jacksonville, Course Helps Efficiency was very rewarding, and I com­ Bill Hellwege, a Lundeberg Ha. Francisco Munoz, 51, from Another key segment of the the port of New York said he mend the professionalism of the School instructor for the sealift course, said, "The search and res­ bosuns' course of study focused "loved the course. I was surprised instructors. I also think that we cue aspect of the class actually on the workings of the SIU and its to find there were many things should always remember Paul showed the bosuns what to do various plans. The bosuns met that I did not know. My favorite Hall and thank him for the step by step in the event of such with representatives of every part of the program was having vision of making such a school an occurrence. I tried to instill department of the SIU for ques­ access to the computer room and possible," said the 41-year-old bosun who sails from the port of into the men that they are the tion and answer sessions. the library. There are all types of Seattle. Recertified bosun Giovanni Var­ kingpins—the ones to make it For example, they conferred literature and always something gas joined the union in 1953. work should such a rescue be­ with officials from the union more to learn." come necessary. Even though all collective bargaining department, Giovanni Vargas and Felix handling of the Hagglund crane; crewmembers become involved, from its governmental affairs Santiago were friends long helicopter operations, which are the bosuns must lead the way, and department, from the welfare, before they began sailing with the critical to a vertical replenish­ this training ensures that they are vacation, training and pension SIU. Both bosuns joined the funds and from the Seafarers union in their native Puerto Rico ment maneuver; damage control; prepared with the proper skills. "This was a super good bunch LOG. underway replenishment and the and, after years of sailing, In addition, the bosuns studied renewed their friendship while at of guys. They were excellent in use of forklifts of all sizes. "I loved the entire class as a all aspects, llie thing that made and practiced communication sea. Vargas, 58, joined in 1953 whole but if I had to pick one them stand out from the rest was techniques and leadership skills while Santiago, 49, joined in thing it would be the sealift that they worked with the trainees in workshop sessions with Lun­ 1969. course. The training is something and made them really feel com­ deberg School instructors. "Firefighting, CPR and first that I will always use and that I fortable. They reminded the Capitol Hill Experience aid were all new and advanced to never really had," said 42-year- trainees that they were once in the Terry Dennis Cowans Sr., me," Vargas told a reporter from old Jim Rader, who returned to same position," he added. another 1975 Piney Point the Seafarers LOG. "This is my Russell Barrack Jr., a 1975 graduate, rated the trip to the first time at the school and my Piney Point to up^ade for the third time by attending the bosun Piney Point graduate, com­ union's headquarters in Camp class was beautifiil. I have really Francisco Munoz especially en­ recertification program. Rader mended the instructors and cur­ Springs, Md. and to Capitol Hill benefited a lot, and I can say for joyed the school's computer room noted the dramatic improvements riculum of the Lundeberg School. as the high points of the recer­ certain that I would not mind sail­ and library facilities. tification course. "I learned a lot about how the union and Con­ gress work. I think that it is really important for Seafarers to know and understand what is going on politically," said Cowans, who has upgraded several times at the school._"Most of the bosuns in this program I have upgraded or sailed with before. TTiis course has prepared me to be the best ship's chairman I can be," the 39year-old Mobile, Ala. native added. Similarly, Frank Lyie who sails from Houston, noted that he enjoyed visiting the Maritime Trades Department to see what is going on politically within the maritime industry." The 37-year- Lundeberg School instructor Bill Hellwege (left) and Bosuns Frank old bosun has been active widi the Lyie (right) and Terry Dennis Cowans practice the correct procedures Practicing their wire-splicing skills are Recertified Bosuns Bert Gillis union, representing Houston on for operating an oxygen breathing apparatus. (left) and Mark Lamar. V ' Ji . t,' • •>,••• . L'"•"r-vr. 1 • .. - :• '* •' ,• "i" • • if - 'X. • t kr • -;-V / -.J f '• ; .-r ,; • • .-.MS �III DECEMBER 1993 SCAI^iieiS 1017 House Backs U.S. Ships In voting 347-65 in favor of H.R. 2151, representatives from both political parties and from all across the country expressed their support for the U.S.-flag merchant marine and the men and women who crew the vessels (see story on page 3). Listed below are excerpts of some of the speeches delivered during the debate November 3 and 4. cargo. We learned these lessons Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) recongized. History has taught Arthur Ravenel (R-S.C.) [The U.S.-flag mer­ during the gulf war, when foreign me to place my trust and foith into The House has the the hands of God and the chant marine] is an carriers refused to enter the Per­ unique opportunity American flag—not in the hands o: important aspect of sian Gulf. Our U.S. merchant fleet, to save an important foreign governments or foreign * our economic inde­ however, accepted its orders and ' industry, one that seamen whose lack and total ab pendence because moved vital militaiy hardware into has seen many sun sence of loyalty to the UniteC the United States harm's way. sets in its day anc States is already well documentec wiir avoid potential Tillie Fowler (R-Fla. one that has in every war in which they have dependence on provided our nation It is crucial that we been employed. The Unitec an invaluable service for rnany foreign-flag carriers. pass this legislation States continues to need a private years And it is an important aspect of to preserve jobs in fleet of merchant ships to support national security because the the maritime in­ Alcee Hastings (D-Fla. our armed forces. U.S.-flag fleet will continue to be dustry. Thousands of James Quillen (R-Tenn. This legislation wil able to meet our nation's sealift American jobs Gerry Studds (D-Mass.) ultimately benefit requirements. This measure will would be lost if these American goods American labor an( provide employment companies rePatsy Mink (D-Hawaii) must have the option the economic anc for American mer­ flagged, and we would also lose of being carried to We cannot look to be military interests of chant marinersforeign markets on a leader among na­ our position as the world's largest our country. We can­ civilians who have American ships. tions without first maritime trading force. not allow any further proven their dedica­ Without that option, looking to lead our depletion of our Tom Barlow (D-K tion and patriotism those goods may own people, to U.S.-flag merchant fleet. by their actions in H.R. 2151 is bipar­ never leave our defend our own in­ every war which has threatenec tisan, it is com­ shores. A foreign Peter Torkildsen (R-Mass. dustries, to embrace the well-being of the Unitec prehensive and it is The U.S. merchant competitor, with an interest or in­ our own causes and States. constructive. It will marine fleet has to solve our own problems. fluence in shipping, could easily help rebuild our Gerald Solomon served our country eliminate competition by simply merchant marine Vic Fazio (D-Calif. well from World Our maritime in­ being unavailable or too expen­ and make it more If we intend to ex­ War II to Desert dustry has been sive to ship U.S. products. competitive. It is pand our interna­ Storm. In our own devastated in recent vital to the future of America's Jack Fields (R-Texas) tional exports in a interest, we must years by unfair We must have a global economy, we maritime capability. support an industry foreign competition U.S.-flag fleet that is vital to our national must see to it that our and unwise govern^ James Walsh (R-N.Y. operated by skillful maritime fleet is in­ security. ment policy. Need­ All the ships in the mariners. The men ternationally com­ less to say, tens of world don't mean Lynn Schenk (D-Calif. and women who petitive with those thousands of jobs have been anything if you do It is a mystery to competing countries. operate our U.S.destroyed as a result of this, and not have trained and, many Americans, flag ships are hard tens of thousands more are at most important, and especially to this working, dedicated. stake if we don't act now. loyal U.S. merchant Few people in this American, why we patriotic, taxpaying American mariners to man Peter Goss(R-Fla. have allowed the body blink when citizens. They are well-trained inthem. buy-American United States to lose The elimination of dividuals, among the best amendments are of­ its maritime primacy the American mer­ seafarers in the world. fered to spending and supremacy — a chant marine would William Lipinski (D-lll.) It is important for us position it has maintained for bills on this floor, be damaging to our As. the world's most of this century. to maintain our believe strongly that economy, to our na­ largest trading na­ maritime industry. the cargo preference tional security and to tion, the United Randy Cunningham (R-Cal. We cannot afford to aws are no different. the safety of our I could count on one States must have a lose more maritime ports. The great rush Charles Rose (D-N.C. hand the number of strong commercial ships. to re-register cargo ships under bills that have set I want to see fleet. Allowing our flags of convenience has con­ aside political agen­ American farmers maritime industry to tributed to the economic stagna­ da for the good of die would be a growing com on the tion of our coastal regions, led to Elizabeth Furse (D-Ore. Americans. This is tragedy. Losing otir merchant ' plains of high the decline of safety standards of We must design and one of those bills. America, but I want ships trading in U.S. ports and marine would threaten our piit in place a sen­ to see American botmade the United States dependent economic viability and national sible maritime toms carrying on foreign vessels in times of war. security. We must act now. policy, and we must American grain in Gene Green Don Young (R-Alaska do it soon or there As we embark on an American-bottom ships on the won't be a maritime I can tell my col­ 1, tor one, would era of more global ligh seas of the world. Why is leagues as the only industry left to sal­ prefer to keep ship­ trade, we must real­ that too much to ask for? person in this room, vage. board and shipyard ize that our iharitime Martin Lancaster (D-N.C. 1 believe, who is ac­ workers actively fleet will provide the tually licensed to be During the Persian Richard Gephardt (D-Mo. employed, rather means by which a captain, that it is Gulf war, we relied than incur the The American mer­ much of our future crucially important primarily on revenue losses and chant marine in­ trade will be con­ that we have American sealift to get welfare costs of dustry is critical to ducted. our unit equipment, giving them a pink slip. Yes, by Amejrican-crewed ships, captains our nation's national ammunition and sup­ all means, let us support maritime and mates and ships built here— security. We need a Gene Taylor (D-Miss.) American ship bottoms—so we plies to the war theater. reform for its role in national ready merchant On the day that I was can take and move our troops and Our merchant vessels defense. marine to serve in borri, we were the answered the call. So did our move our supplies. times of national John Duncan (R-Tenn. world's greatest civilian merchant mariners. emergency. This bill assures us of Owen Pickett (D-Va. maritime power. We have the oppor­ a reliable, well-trained and Robert Borski (D-Pa. This nation has Last year, this great tunity today by pass­ prepared merchant marine. neglected its mer­ H.R. 2151 will create nation did not build ing this legislation to chant marine for too and preserve jobs, one merchant ship. Herbert Bateman (R-Va.) promote U.S. Jobs, long. The fact that while preserving tlie The Groatians, in the U.S. shipbuilding I really believe privately owned vital defense middle of a war, built and encouraging that we have U.S.-flag commer­ 0. The nation of Malta built four; capability of this na­ U.S.-flag vessel developed a proposal cial ships now carry the nation of Vietnam built one. tion. It will allow owners to stay under which both maritime less than 5 percent of The Japanese built over a third of workers in the U.S. the U.S. flag. labor, the operators this country's overseas trade all of the ships built in the world, maritime and shipand, yes, the Helen Bentley (R-Md. should, in itself, be cause for but this nation did not build one. milding industries to compete on shipyards can, in Too often, par­ alarm. a level playing field with their fact, endorse. George Hochbineckner (D-t^.Y.) breign counterparts. ticularly in Maria Cantwell (D-Wash. We have a proud peacetime, the Solomon Ortiz (D-Texas What is at stake is maritime heritage in Christopher Smith (R-N.J. private commercial nothing less than the This maritime these United States. In times of crisis, U.S. merchant survival of the U.S. reform and revitalizaIf the United States American-flagged marine is the forgot­ merchant marine tion program is vital is going to continue ships, crewed by ten arm of our and shipbuilding in­ to the future of our as a leader in the American citizens, military, and its con­ dustries and global economy, it U.S.-flag merchant are the most reliable tributions in bringing price America's national will need a strong and capable means of fleet and shipbuilding stability and competitiveness to security. ' maritime industry. transporting military industry. our international trades is rarely Joseph Moakley (D-Mass.) We need a strong U.S.-flagged mer­ chant marine for military support in times of war and for support of U,S. trade in times of peace. This legislation is an important first step toward restoring America's maritime presence. . A*-- r- mMum. mmm m k'i r^c •<;> -• Cv.;' ¥ 5 .1- •'/ T •On %'li > Vr.v.; �r?'?.r DECEMBER 1993 SEAFARERS LOB 11 House Repels Attack On Cargo Preference ".<V ' .!• : The House of Representatives, Coast Guard regulations, in­ associated with the North in a bipartisan show of support, surance specifications and much American Export Grain Associa overwhelmed an attack by farm- more. tion (NAEGA), a Washington state legislators on the nation's "A foreign crew, as an ex­ based trade group that long has cargo preference laws by a vote of ample, of 36 from a Third World fought against cargo preference 309-109. countiy can be hired for $650 per legislation. When he completec The decision on an amend­ day, including benefits," the the list. Rose noted the members ment offered by Representatives Texas Republican told his col­ "support the Penny-Grandy Tim Penny (D-Minn.) and Fred leagues. amendment [and] have large in Grandy (R-Iowa) directly "The authors of this amend­ terests in foreign flag vessels.' jreceded the chamber's Novem- ment want to compare U.S. ship­ Fields pointed out specific )er 4 vote in favor of legislation ping rates to these competitors. I foreign-flag shipping interests designed to revitalize the U.S.- cannot accept that nor should this among several NAEGA me flag merchant fleet. Congress nor should the hers. "Cargill owned or charterec Seafarers show their view on NAFTA at a rally near Washington last The Penny-Grandy amend­ American people. an ocean-going fleet of 2^: month, one day before the House voted on the flawed trade deal. ment came in the w^e of the Representative Tom Lantos foreign-registered vessels in $700 million grain deal reached (D-Calif.) added, "People who 1985. Continental Grain operates between President Clinton and work our merchant ships have to foreign ships through a network Russian President Boris Yeltsin pay the same prices for every­ of subsidiaries and joint ventures in April. Since then, cargo thing that the rest of us do. They The Louis Dreyfus Corp. is hal preference foes have made do not live in Third World owner of Gearbulk, a liner opera­ several attempts in the House and countries. They live in the United tion based in Norway. Archer Richard Gephardt (D-Mo.), Senate to restrict or cancel the States. Daniels Midland announced that Continued from page 3 another leading figure in the push amount of grain that would be "If you want to compare the it is seeking a deal with the Soviei to reject NAFTA and develop a carried on American-flag bot­ cost [of U.S.-flag vessels and Union, trading American grain everyone." NAFTA later passec toms. in the Senate by 61-38. Originally truly fair trade deal, said during crews] with Malta shipping, for Russian-flag ships." negotiated by the Bush ad­ the vote, "My unhappy con­ (Cargo preference laws allo­ Liberian shipping, Panamanian cate a certain percentage of shipping, where the average ministration, the pact will be clusion is that this agreement is Third World Concerns government-impelled cargo be crewmember makes $18 a day, signed by President Clinton and deficient and flawed. "This amendment will only will take effect January 1, 1994, "It does not leave us with con­ carried aboard U.S.-flag vessels.) then wecannot compare our regu­ "There is nothing diat gives lated ships with their ships and serve the interests of foreign ship provided new Canadian Prime fidence that Mexican worker me more distress than members say we need to reduce our costs,' owners arid multinational grain Minister Jean Chretien also signs wages will go up with produc­ who will come to the floor be­ stated Wayne Gilchrist (R-Md.). houses with flag-of-convenience off on the deal. Approval by tivity. ... We Cannot and must not vessels who comply with mini­ Mexico, which pumped tens of expose our workers and our cor­ cause of a regional interest or a mal and loosely administered tax, millions of dollars into a pro- porations to unfair competition.... local economic concern, but fail Multinational Interests safety, labor, health and environ­ We must not approve a treaty that to rise to what is, in my judgment, After supporters of the amend­ mental standards," said Repre­ NAFTA public relations cam­ does not put all of the labor law an obvious and overriding nation­ ment stated they were standing up paign in the United States, is a into the enforcement process." al need," stated Representative for the taxpayers of their districts, sentative William Lipinski foregone conclusion. (D-Tll.), chairman of the House Robert Torricelli (D-N.J.). NAFTA will eliminate tariffs several representatives chal­ Merchant Marine Subcommittee. Polls Show Opposition House Majority Whip David lenged the remarks. and other trade regulations be­ Bentley picked up on the Several polls taken during the Bonior (D-Mich.) said the purtween the United States, Mexico "I want to point out that the )ose of the amendment was not to anti-cargo preference advocates remarks about lax environmental and Canada. The AFL-ClG's week leading up the House vote ower cargo preference costs, but do not represent the U.S. tax­ and safety standards. She referrec review of the deal concludes that reflected the widespread opposi­ "to drive the American merchant payers nor do they represent the to a report entitled "Ships of it will lead to massive relocation tion to NAFTA among U.S. Shame" published by the citizens. For example, a CNNmarine out of business." family farmer," announced Rep­ Australian House of Repre­ of U.S. jobs to Mexico, where USA Today Gallup poll, a No Lowering Standards resentative Helen Bentley (R- sentatives Standing Committee businesses can take advantage of Washington Post-ABC News poll Responding to charges that Md.). on Transportation Communica­ cheap labor and lax environrrien- and a Harris poll all showed that tal standards. They also charge "They represent the agricul­ tion and Infrastructure. U.S.-flag maritime operators a strong majority of respondents should be forced to reduce costs tural conglomerates and the inter­ She stated among the charges hat NAFTA will lower the either opposed Ae deal or were because some agricultural sub­ national grain brokerage houses made about foreign-flag vessels American standard of living and sidies like honey and mohair have owned by foreigners. They are the in the Australian trade before the will not improve the plight of undecided. One-hundred thirty-two of been eliminated. Representative same companies which stand to Australian legislative body were Mexican workers—many of 175 House Republicans voted for Jack Fields (R-Texas) asked benerit from the demise of what those of unseaworthy ships, poor­ whom earn as little as $4 a day— NAFTA, while 157 of 259 House which protections for American is left of the U.S merchant marine ly trained crews, careless com­ because the pact does not contain democrats voted against it. One because they and their sub­ mercial practices by marine enforceable provisions for safe workers should be abolished. pollster was quoted hy The Fields, the ranking member of sidiaries do own fleets of foreign- insurers, inadequate and poorly working conditions, for the right of Washington Post as saying the the House Merchant Marine and flag ships that already carry over maintained safety and rescue workers to freely associate or for Republicans "went where their Fisheries Committee, noted U.S.- 96 percent of all. agricultural ex- equipment, crewmembers unable the right to bargain collectively. business supporters and con­ flag vessels have to meet federal )orts from this country as well as to communicate among themsel­ tributors want^ them to go, but and state income tax laws, the other commodities." ves, lack of food, beatings by of­ Workers Igriored in Pact they didn't look where their voters National Labor Relations Act, the Representative Charles Rose ficers of crewmembers, denial of House Majority Whip David are. Fair Labor Standards Act, U.S. (D-N.C.) read a list of companies pay and much more. Jonior (D-Mich.), one of Contradicts Existing Policy Congress' most active and Meanwhile, at a press con­ vociferous opponents of NAFTA, said on the House floor prior to ference the day after the House voting against the deal, "The vote, Kirkland emphasized that working people who stand America's unions do not oppose boosted when President Clinton for advanced shipbuilding, create Continuedfrom page 3 against this treaty don't have free-trade policies as long as they released a statement shortly a market for U.S.-built doublethrough the years in support of before the debate began stating hull tankers and expand federal degrees from Harvard. They don't ensure fair trading practices. He America's armed forces. loan guarantees study economic models. . . . But noted that the labor movement the administration would support for U.S. they know when the deck is stack­ supported legislation which "For the past 200 years, our the bill and "work with Congress formerly established America's shipyards was in­ ed against them. nation's merchant marine has to fund the Maritime Security "When jobs are lost, these are basic trade policy—-"a policy, corporated in the delivered troops and vital war Fleet authorized by the bill." The Fiscal Year 1994 the people who have to sell their incidentally, that was con­ supplies to every world conflict White House also announced it defense funding tiomes, pull their kids out of tradicted and undermined by was against any changes in U.S. from Guadalcanal to the Persian bill which also school arid look for new work." [NAFTA]." cargo preference laws. Gulf," ,,Fields Quoting directly from the Referring to NAFTA's flawed cleared the Senate Studds and Fields—along told his col­ Trade Act of 1974, Kirkland said, side agreements on labor and the and has been leagues. "Our with Representatives William "The president shall not designate environment, which outline cumRep. Lipinski signed into law by success in win­ Lipinski (D-111.), the chairman of any countiy a beneficiary under the president. tbersome and virtually useless ap­ ning these con­ the Merchant Marine and The remaining two pieces this section if such a country has peals procedures, the congress­ flicts is owed in Fisheries Subcommittee, and not taking steps to comprising the revitalization not taken or is man added, "This vote is about no small part to Herbert Batemari (R-Va.), the package are still before House afford internationally recognized more than money and mark&ts. the invaluable ranking minority member of sub­ contributions of committee—introduced H.R. subcommittees. The Merchant 't's about more than tariffs and workers rights to workers in that these mariners. 2151 in May as part of a legisla­ Marine Investment Act of 1993 free trade. It's about basic values. country. He said that NAFTA's con­ Rep. Batemari Unless H.R. tive package to revitalize the (H.R. 2152) would establish new .. It's about the dignity of work, financial and tax policies to cre­ tradictions to existing U.S. trade t's about respect for human 2151 is ap­ U.S.-flag maritime industries. ate investment in new U.S.-flag aw is "a fundamental reason why rights.... The package included four proved, 1 have graVe doubts that vessels. The Maritime Trust we opposed NAFTA. . . . This "This NAFTA is not the best this fourth arm of defense will be separate bills; one other has been Funds Act would provide the Ight has not been in vain and it is approved by the House. Legisla­ we can do." available in the future." funding for H.R. 2151. not over." tion designed to provide a base House Majority Leader Passage of H.R. 2151 was Labor Denounces NAFTA, Will Push Uw Fair Trade •h - • 'i •'•J • Vi.- li Ship Bill Passed by Strong House Vote , f '•'/'UJ'•''/I? V: '• 7^ �DECEMBER 1993 SA Michael Rogers (left) talks with Bosun John Japper before the Ready for a union meeting to begin aboard the LNG vessel are (left to right) OS Jacob Mayo, OS Jack Caffey bosun signs off. and SA Ed Grey. No Down Time When Gemini Crew Chcmges in Jap€m When a vessel like the LNG Gemini docks in Sanbuka, Japan, the situation al­ lows for more than offloading of liquified natural gas. The port serves as an ideal location for a crew change. TTie time at the dock dlowed oncoming Steward/Baker Kris Hopkins the oppor­ tunity to meet with outgoing Robert Frazier to know what was happening in the galley. The same held true in the deck department when. Bosun Ramli Mohammed caught up with John Japper. From all three departments, crewmembers talked with their replacements, making sure there would be continuity aboard ship when it sailed in a few hours. Like the other seven LNG tankers in the Energy Transportation Corporation fleet, the U^G Gemini sails roundtrip between Japan and Indonesia where the cargo is loaded. The average voyage is ap­ proximately 28 days. SIU Representative Sal Aquia recently met with the crewmembers both coming on board and signing off, to update them on happenings within the union and answer any questions they might have concerning the medical benefits or the contract. He also provided the Seafarers LOG with the photographs for this story. ,1 s'--- • ;^:risvvs;>,,'»c:.: Taking care of last-minute dinner preparations for the Geminicrew is Chief Cook John Bukowsky. AB Robert Smith checks out the gal-' ley during a coffee break. �'^*';'.,C^-i DECEMBER 1993 •».; -Si-..- .---'--.'•>• SEAFARERS LOG 13 Faust Brings High-Speed Train to U.S. for Testing •/ ^ ^ Seafarers aboard the MVFaust had a hand in starting Amtrak's new high-speed rail service in the northeastern United States, which began in early October. The Faust, a car carrier, transported two state-of-the-art Intercity Express (ICE) passenger trains last summer for testing in die U.S. The trains were loaded in Bremerhaven, Germany and Antwerp, Belgium and then were taken to the{wrt of Baltimore. "Everything was very, very exact," Bosun Robert "R.J." LeRoy recently told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG. "All the me­ tals were protected so that they weren't scarred in any way. Everyone did their job well and everything went smoothly." ICE trains already operate on a daily schedule in Germany, and Amtrak plans to phase in the use of the trains for its Metroliner Ser­ vice in the Washington-New York-Boston corridor. The trains, which feature spacious seating areas and a number of amenities such as attendant service, full-ser­ vice dining, video information Amtrak's new high-speed passenger train is ready to be loaded onto the MVFaust for testing in the in the northeastern United States. displays and fax service, have been tested at speeds exceeding 140 m.p.h. in Metroliner Ser- no straps or anything over the top, had to be buttressed out to its ful­ tween the U.S. and Europe. "I'd 250 m.p.h. In Germany, they vice—an increase of 15 m.p.h. because no one wanted to damage lest extent.... It was like a con­ say 90 percent of the cargo is over the current Metroliners' top the paint." Instead, chains with versation piece when we first new cars that have been pur­ operate at 175 m.p.h. hook-points were used. took it on board. I think we were chased by military people," Amtrak has asked the Federal average speed. LeRoy noted that only the The bosun added that because a little excited about it because LeRoy said. "We also carry Railroad Administration to grant a waiver that would allow the ICE trains' bases were secured for the of the trains' size and weight, the it's so different." some household goods, small train to operate at speeds of up to overseas transport. "There were Faust's stem ramp "pretty wel "We're pretty proud of the fact boats, tanks and Army trucks. A that we hauled it," said QMED few months ago we hauled a James Gibson. "It got a lot of catamaran that had a mast that was at least 90 feet." publicity, that's for sure." Built in 1985, the Faust has Operated by International almost 600,000 square feet of Marine Carriers, the usual­ parking area and can carry about Sam Varney and Vicki VarSam began his maritime career any other job. Just because you're ly transports automobiles be­ 6,000 cars. ney are like most other married 10 years ago, working as an ordi­ a woman doesn't mean you couples. They each work during nary seaman on utility boats in the should have to do any more or any Producer Crew Pigs Out the day, then look forward to Guif of Mexico. He joined the less than a man does. spending a few hours together in union four years ago, and notes a The Faust typically calls on the evening, when they can share dramatic improvement in wages ports in Southampton, England; dinner, recap the day's events and and general treatment. Bremerhaven, Germany; and maybe watch some TV. He met Vicki at a Texas res­ Antwerp, Belgium. The U.S. They do not have to travel very taurant shortly before he joined ports it visits include Baltimore, far once the work day ends, how­ the union—"a fluke encounter. Jacksonville, Fla., Charleston, ever, because they both sail Sam calls it. They were married S.C. and Portsmouth, Va. aboard the MVFaust, a car carrier soon thereafter. Vicki and Sam, both in their operated by International Marine A year later, in 1990, Vicki thirties, agree that the crewmemCarriers. Sam is an able bodied made a voyage on the Faust as a bers get along quite well. "We seaman, while Vicki is a steward passenger, and that is when she have a mix of southerners and assistant. got the idea to make a living at northerners, so everybody gets They have been fortunate sea. "I enjoyed that trip, and their jabs in. But really it's all in enough to catch several ships figured if I was going to be in­ fiin," says Vicki. together. "We're never apart, but volved with a sailor, I might as By contrast, the Varneys' that hasn't been a detriment to our well work with him!" she says mood was deadly serious on one marriage," Sam says with a laugh. "This has worked out really well. of their most recent trips. As the "Actually, Vicki and I don't We've been lucky enough to vessel neared Antwerp, Sam was publicize the fact that weare mar­ catch the same ship a couple of stricken with acute appendicitis. ried. We just do our jobs. During times. We've gotten to travel "It was pretty close," he recalls in the day, we hardly ever see each together and see places we other­ a low tone. "At first I thought other anyway, since I'm on the wise wouldn't have seen." maybe I just had indigestion, but deck and she's in the galley." Vicki adds that she believes it it got a lot worse. But they enjoy the evenings, as is altogether appropriate for Antwerp was our last port well as time on the beach. They women to work as merchant before the States, and the captain live in northern Texas, just a few mariners. "As long as pu do your arranged for a doctor. There was miles from the Oklahoma border. job, you're okay. I think it's like an ambulance waiting at the Seafarers aboard the Sea-I^ndProducer recently took advantage docks, and two hours later I was of outstanding weather while sailing from Long Beach, Calif, to Honolulu by having a pig roast. Pictured above, left to right. Captain on the operating table." Donald Cocozza, Chief Steward Donna demons. First Engineer The operation was a success, Mike Carr and Chief Engineer Ed Robinson start cooking. Below and Sam and Vicki quickly got (from left), AB E. O'Brien, AB Mike Tracy, Robinson and Bosun back to their normal routine. Jack Edwards sit down to enjoy the feast. Bosun Edwards provided For Sam, that meant finding these photos. his way back to a golf course which he plays virtually eveiy day when he is on the beach. "I play at least 18 holes a day, some­ times 27," says Sam, who is a 6 handicap. But they soon will ship out again—^hopefully together. "I'm really fmtunate my wife is able to WOTk at sea and that she enjoys it," says Sam. "We're really happy together and we both feel lucky witib AB Sam Vamey and SA Vicki Vamey sail together on the MV Faust. the way things have woiked out." "C.-Vv _ . ...6 . '• S •[ -• Couple in the Union: Varneys Enjoy Seafaring Life Together </:v.- •.'r^^y^:\ • V I'K'.' •• • -Ir V.*- •' A' A, •7:4; �14 DECEMBER 1993 SEAFMERSLOG Riveriioat Galley Gang Member Is First to Upgrade Tfpf j/' . by the SIU for purposes of collec­ on the Belle, I went for it. I really with her before packing up for iny return to Alton," she said. tive bargaining. Before coming enjoy my job," she said. Pennell noted that her entire on board the Alton Belle, she In addition to upgrading at the trip to Maryland has been benefi­ worked in a greenhouse but soon Lundeberg School, Pennell had a realized that cooking for people chance to visit her mother in cial. "I recommend that all was her true talent. "I used to Belair, Md. for the first time in 10 Seafarers come to Piney Point be­ cook for the American Legion years. "She did not know I was in cause there is something for "JackofAIITrades" the area, and I surprised her the everyone and it is truly a home The Alton Belle II docks at the Golf League and I really enjoyed first time I visited her. I Will also away from home with SIU SlU-crewed Alton Landing it. When I found out that there get to spend Thanksgiving Day brothers and sisters." was a cook's position available barge, which is a three-deck barge featuring a restaurant as well as a buffet and bar for passengers to use before and after cruises. It also includes banquet rooms for special functions as well as several kiosks serving everything from pizza and popcorn to spiced School of special course. "The reviews of Seven Seafarers and five Lundeberg shrimp. the fire drill procedures and medi­ Seamanship's shiphandling members of the American "I do everything in the galley Maritime Officers (AMD) simulator, which was used as part cal emergency procedures were for the Belle," Pennell said. employed by Express Marine, of the deck department course. "I excellent," said Gray, 60, who "There is never one specific as­ Inc. last month completed special got a lot out of that. It's very joined the Seafarers 31 years ago. signed task as with other steward upgrading courses at the Paul realistic," said Rice, who has "Ileamed a lot." department ratings on deep sea HaU Center for Maritime Train­ been an SIU member since 1965. Completing the recent upgrad­ vessels. When I first got to the ing and Education. ing courses were Seafarers Gray, TTie captain of the tug Russell school, they did not know how Rice, Robert Batson, Wilford Courses covering deck, engine B. Muma , which transports coal to classify me because of the and steward department skills from Trenton, N.J. to Norfolk, Holton, Russell Hudson, broad range of things I prepare were available to die Seafarers Va. added that he was "pleasantly Robert Yates and Walton Mcor plan for the riverboat," she and AMO members. Most of tbe surprised" by his first trip to Piney Horney, along with AMO mem­ added. curriculum,, including hands-on Point "I got a lot out of iL espe­ bers Ernest Ross, Walton Keech, The Alton Belle galley gang is work, was department-specific, cially the firefighting and radar Donald Hernandez, Roy Gritz and Donald Fulcher. responsible for all food prepared but some training was given training," he said. Express Marine is based in Sheila Pennell prepares a special for the riverboat and the Landing. simultaneously to members firom Another newcomer to the Paul Pennsauken, N.J. The company macaroni salad to be sen/ed for Pennell and other members of the all three departments. Hall Center, tugboat Captain operates , five tugs and barges lunch in the galley at SlU head­ galley gang serve as line cooks Tugboat Captain Henry Rice, Mark Gray, said he "liked every­ which move coal up and down the quarters in Camp Springs, Md. for the restaurant and servers for 54, praised the Seafarers Harry thing" about the school and the East Coast. banquets and the buffet. Three Pennell is the first galley gang times a day, they prepare meats, member from the SlU-crewed cheeses and various breads and riverboat to study at the facility vegetables for the deli on the boat, located at the Paul Hall Center for as well as food for the employees' Maritime Training and Education cafeteria. There also are various hot in Piney Point, Md.'1 really did not hofs d'oeuvres served in the cock­ Sailing regularly between Gilbert Rodriguez. "We do our know what to expect," she told a tail lounge on the second floor of Oakland, Calif, and Honolulu, best to take care of them." reporter from the Seafarers LOG. the Landing that are prepared by the SlU-crewed Matsonia is one Under the contract with Mat"Piney Point is absolutely Pennell and her colleagues. of several Matson vessels that son, Seafarers crew the steward wonderful!" exclaimed Pennell, When Pennell returns to the serves as a lifeline between the department The other unlicensed upon her arrival to the school early U.S. mainland and island state. crewmembers on the vessels Alton Belle, she will begin work­ this fall. "Everyone is so nice and The Matsonia, like other ves­ come from Seaifarers Interna­ a much larger, state-of-theing in there is so much to learn." art galley recently completed on sels in the fleet, is not simply a tional Union of North AmericaThe courses that Pennell com­ the third deck of the Landing. containership. "We carry a little affiliated unions—Sailors' Union pleted included both classroom It will be so great to have bit of everything," noted Chief of the Pacific for the deck depart­ and on-the-job trmning. Topics Steward Don Spangler. Among ment and Marine Firemen's covered preparation of meats, more room. Right now everyone the items listed on a bill of lading Union in the engineroom. poultiy, seafo^, soups, sauces and is doing everything and running are cattle, horses and gravies. Pennell also learned to into one another constantly. We automobiles, as well as con­ identify meat cuts. Emphasis was are so busy that it will be wonder­ tainers loaded with produce and placed on the basics of food ful to finally have all the space to other commodities not found on preparation including sanitation, do the hundreds of things that we the islands. dietary values, work organiza­ do for the Belle waA Landing," The Matsonia, built in 1973 Pennell noted. tion and the use of recipes. and refurbished in 1987, sails "Everyone needs to come to Pennell has been a union every 14 days on the OaldandPiney Point. It is such an member since the employees Honolulu run. The vessel awesome place with so much to voted in 1991 to be represented averages three days at the docks in Oakland and two in Honolulu because of the unusual nature of Virgin Islands Thanks SIU Asst. Cook Gilbert Rodriguez some of its cargo. began sailing with the union 35 "It's a good ship with a good years ago. crew," added Assistant Cook When Sheila Pennell returns to the Alton Belle II Riverboat Casino in Alton, III. later this month, she will take with her the knowledge gained from seven weeks of upgrading in the steward department at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship. do even if you aren't enrolled in classes. People can even bring their families! It is a place all Seafarers need to experience for themselves," noted the Alton resident. Rre EiQiress miai^ Boatmen Joui ^leiBal ijmiMieiy Comse Cargoes Vary Aboard Matsonia: Everything from Boxes to Horses SA Juariito Fiel retums from the crew mess with dirty dishes. .J+.V, •' The many young people of the U.S. Virgin Islands who have careers as seamen are a tribute to the SlU's Lundeberg School program, said the territory's lieutenant governor, Derick Hodge (right), in a ceremony honoring organizations that have assisted young Virgin Islanders to find meaningful employment. At^pting the certificate of appreciationis Amos Peters, vice presideht of the SlU's industrial division. U- "lU'' • .-T- ' T Udling out vegetables for lunch The Matsonia stands ready to take Doctoring a hot dog to order is is Chief Steward Don Spangler. on new cargo in the port of Oakland. SA Hussein Saleh. �,;•-> • DECEMBER 1993 SEAFABEKS LOG SEAEMlE^Wfl^ Lundeberg School Supplement ' -• t' IS This handy version of the Lundeberg School's catalog is printed in the Seafarers LOG as a con­ venience to SIU members. Please keep for reference. From School To Ship... The Lundeberg School, located at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., offers courses for Seafarers to upgrade their skills and, thus, increase their earning power. 1994 Lundeberg School Courses Guide U pgrading at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship located at the Paul Hall Cehter for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., pays big dividends for members when they return to their ships. Courses at the school provide Seafarers with the knowledge, skills and background they need to perform their jobs even better. In planning for 1994, members can use this special supplement of the'Seafarers LOG to review courses offered by the Lundeberg School. On page 18, the Lundeberg School's 1994 schedule is pub­ lished. It should be noted that on occasion, because of the manpower needs of SlU-contracted operators, course dates may change. Seafareris should continue to consult each monthly edition of the Seafarers LOG for the most up-to-date schedules. Courses at the Lundeberg School continually are im­ proved to keep abreast of the latest technological changes in the maritime field. The upgrading cur­ riculum includes courses for all un­ licensed shipboard ratings—deck, engine and steward—as well as some classes leading to licensed shipboard positions. Most courses lead to U.S. Coast Guard endorse­ ments. ' What follows is a brief summary of each of the courses scheduled for the coming year. Eligibility requirements Vary from course to course, so any member interested in upgrading should first check with the Lundeberg School's admissions office. For further information, contact the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; telephone (301) 994-0010. DECK DEPARTMENT COURSES Able Beidied Seamfm This special Six-week course leads to endorsement as an able bodied seaman (AB). It consists of classroom work and practical training in deck seamanship, rules of the road, marlinspike seamanship, helmsmanship, cargo han­ dling, safety, firefighting, emer­ gency procedures, first aid, underway and vertical replenishment, and crane and forklift truck operations. lifeboat/ Water SurWval The course of instruction leading to a lifeboatman cer­ tification consists of classroom work and practical training in i: riS® emergency drills, lifeboat con­ struction, lifeboat launching and recovery, basic compass navigation, life raft construc­ tion, life raft launching and maintenance, and use of all lifeboat and life raft equipment. Students also learn different survival methods and use of emergency radio and distress signals. At least three hours each day are spent outdoors in the lifeboats conducting practical exercises such as rowing/ coxswain training and davit operations. Students must pass a Coast Guard examina­ tion in this course. Bridge Management The Coast Guard-approved shiphandling simulator course provides realistic bridge watchstanding training for deck personnel aboard both deep sea and inland vessels. Successful completion of this two-week course is accepted as credit for 60 days of seatime on vessels of Unlimited ton­ nage. Special areas of skills development include general shiphandling and helmsmanship, river and channel transits, entering and departing various ports, coastal navigation. Navy-related operations such as convoy and underway replenishment, hawser towing, pushboat towing and emer­ gency shiphandling. Radar Observer The radar observer course of instruction leads to a radar observer endorsement. The U.S. Coast Guard-approved course consists of both class­ room lectures and practical application, including radar theory, observation, operation and use, interpretation and plotting, advanced radar plot­ ting, collision avoidance and navigational exercise. Practical training includes operation of audio-visual and state-of-the art radar simula­ tion equipment to include stu­ dent control and maneuver- ing of a vessel, plotting courses and safely maneuvering a ship without jeopardizing the safety of other vessels. Third Mate This 13-week course con­ sists of classroom instruction in all areas of terrestrial naviga­ tion, deck seamanship, rules of the road, shipbuilding, ship stability, cargo handling, federal regulations, first aid, CPR and firefighting. This material includes ail subject areas found on the Coast Guard license exam for third mates. Parti This course will be the basic navigation course for those students preparing to take any limited tonnage license. The following subjects will be covered in this course: chart production, bridge ^uipment, navigation publications, timespeed-distance, tides and cur­ rents, distance off by bearings. radar navigation and basic piloting. A final exam will be given and must be passed in order to proceed to Part II. Lii^iited license Partn This course will be an ad­ vanced navigation course for those students preparing to take any limited tonnage license. Students must first pass "Limited License Part 1" in order to be eligible for this course. The following subjects will be covered: advanced piloting, rules of the road and weather observation. A final exam will be given and must be passed in order to proceed to Part III. • .''i- ' •. - )• 1' • • • --S^; Limited License Partm This course will be an ad­ vanced navigation course for those students preparing to take any limited tonnage license. Students must first pass "Limited License Part 11" in order to be eligible for this course. The following subjects will be covered: seamanship, stability, oil spill, towing, use of CFR (Code of Federal Regula­ tions) 33 and 46, and practice USCG exams. Ccicstial Narigatioii This six-week course of in­ struction covers the areas of sunrise-sunset-twilight, latitude observations by sun and polaris, celestial running fixes by sun-stars-planets, compass error by amplitude and azimuth, star identifica­ tion, as well as care and use of the sextant. Electronic naviga­ tion also is covered. .'f. fContinued on next page i �16 KCEMBBR1993 SEOFARBKS LOG ENGINE DEPARTMENT COURSES QMED-Any Rating The curriculum for certifica­ tion and endorsement as a" Qualified Member of the En­ gine Department (QMED)-Any Rating consists of a 12-week course leading to the following ratings: pumpman, refrigera­ tion engineer, electrician, machinist, deck engineer, junior engineer and deck en­ gine mechanic. The course of instruction leading to an endorsement in each of these ratings consists of classroom work as well as practical trainjng. ' ' •• • >" i' ''0^-- ^ Fireman/ Watertender and Oiler /'v V The six-week course of in­ struction leading to endorse­ ment as fireman/watertender, oiler (FOWT) consists of classroom instruction and practical training. Topics covered include the parts of a boiler, engineroom equipment, firefighting, safety procedures, engineroom procedures, operating auxiliary equipment, watchstanding and starting and securing main engines. This course prepares the student for Coast Guard General Safety, Oiler and Fireman/Watertender tests. Pumproom Maintenance and Operations The six-week course leads to certification in pumproom maintenance and operations. The curriculum consists of cargo properties and emer­ gency procedures, tanker development and construc­ tion, operation and main­ tenance of valves and pumps, loading procedures, cargo pump operation, cargo meas­ urement, discharging proce­ dures, ballasting procedures, tank cleaning, inert gas sys­ tems, fire fighting and safety, pollution control and cargo control systems. Upon com­ pletion of the course, a Lundeberg School certificate of graduation will be issued. Matine Electrical Maintenance iifl •:'i. •. ',./• The eight-week course of instruction leading to certifica­ tion in Marine Electrical Main­ tenance consists of both classroom instruction and practical shop training aimed at providing the basic skills required of the shipboard electrician. The range of topics includes basic electrical theory, DC and AC circuits, electrical safety, electrical test equipment and troubleshoot­ ing, electrical protective and switching devises, electrical wiring diagrams and schematics, control and power circuits, batteries, AC genera­ tion and distribution equip­ ment, transformers, lighting systems and fixtures, galley and miscellaneous heating equipment, single speed AC motors and across the line starters, and wiring techni­ ques. Refrigeration Systems, Maintenance and Operations This six-week course of in­ struction leading to certifica­ tion in refrigeration systems maintenance and operations consists of both classroom in­ struction and practical shop training. Topics of instruction include the theory of mechani­ cal refrigeration, major system components, accessories, cycle controls, refrigerants and oils, and applied electricity. Standard service techni­ ques are emphasized such as the operation, trouble-shoot­ ing and maintenance of ships' stores plants, air conditioning plants, cargo ventilation and dehumidifying equipment, as well as pantry refrigeratdrs, water coolers and ice machines. • Practical shop training in­ cludes the complete fabrica­ tion of a working refrigeration system from basic system components. An introduction to refrigerated container units also is presented. Refrigerated Containers Maintenance This four-week course leads to certification in refrigerated containers and consists of both classroom and practical shop training. The training experience will enable the student to assume the duties of a maintenance electrician on board container ships carrying refrigerated containers. The student will receive training in all phases of refrigerated container unit operation, maintenance, repair and trouble-shooting. This will include the various types of en­ gines, refrigeration systems and electrical systems. The course is designed to help the student develop a systematic approach to trouble-shooting as well as to acquaint the student with specific maintenance proce­ dures. I Diesel Eni^e Technology This four-week course, leading to certification in diesel engine technology, consists of both classroom instruction and practical hands-on train­ ing. Topics of instruction in­ clude diesel engine theory, two- and four-stroke cycle operating principles; and the construction, operation, main­ tenance, repair and trouble­ shooting of low, medium and high speed diesel engines. As­ sociated auxiliaries including intake and exhaust systems, lubrication and cooling sys­ tems, fuel injection and start­ ing systems will t>e covered as well. The student will receive practical training in the opera­ tion and repair of diesel erv gines on board school training vessels. Welding The course of instruction in basic welding consists of classroom and on-the-job training. This four-week course includes practical train­ ing in electric arc welding and cutting and oxy-acetylene brazing, welding and cutting. Upon completion of the course, a Lundeberg School certificate of graduation will be issued. Basic Electronics Basic electronics is a fourweek course which helps Seafarers develop an under­ standing of what goes on in­ side the electronic boxes found aboard ship. The topics covered include principles of analog electronics, active devices and basic digital electronics. The student will learn all aspects of circuit diagrams, and the instructor will work with each course participant individually to ensure a work­ ing knowledge of all shipboard electronic devices. This course is an excellent way to prepare for the Marine Electronics Technician course, and is strongly recom­ mended for those who wish to take that course but have no electrical or electronics back­ ground. Marine Electronics Technician i&n These 6-week courses consists of the principles of analog and digital electronics with emphasis on shipboard circuitry and communications. Students have the oppor­ tunity to review AC and DC theory, power supplies, oscil­ lators, amplifiers, receivers, transmitters, antennas, operating practices and regulations, digital devices and controls, digital transmis­ sion, computer based auto­ mation, and trouble-shooting of analog and digital equip­ ment. A daily lab follows each lecture period. Hydraulics The course of instruction in hydraulics consists of class­ room and practical training. Topics covered in this fourweek course are fluids, ac­ tuators, control devices, pumps, reservoirs, symbols and hydraulic systems in marine equipment. Upon com­ pletion of the course, a Lun­ deberg School certificate of graduation will be issued. Consisting of the principles of electrical control of hydraulic systems, this course covers cargo winches, deck cranes, anchor windlasses, ships' steering systems, ramps, stern ramps, fire doors and a wide variety of ship­ board systems. Electro-Hydraulic Systems The six-week course reviews the hydraulic com­ ponents and their functions as well as basic hydraulic sys­ tems. Application of electrical control and some typical ship­ board electro-hydraulic equip­ ment is also covered. The first weeks are devoted to the electro-hydraulic deck crane, electrical relay se­ quenced hydraulic operation together with trouble-shooting and maintenance. The remainder of the course is devoted to other electrohydraulic shipboard systems. Tankennan The four-week course of in­ struction leading to endorse­ ment as a Tankerman consists of all aspects of loading, trans­ ferring and unloading various cargoes carried by tank bar­ ges. The course stresses diesel engine operation and repair with particular em­ phasis on all safety aspects occurring in conjunction with the handling of fuels, asphalt and dangerous cargoes. Deep Sea/Inland Enc^eering Ucense Exam Changes within the maritime industry and projected trends have led to modifications in the federal regulations pertaining to the licensing of merchant marine engineering offices. This has resulted in an expansion of career paths from the tradi­ tional two (inspected and uninspected) to three (un­ limited, limited, and desig­ nated duty) based on qualifying experience in terms of vessel gross tonnage. Beginning in 1991, the Lun­ deberg School has offered an integrated program of study open to all qualified licensed engineer candidates (un­ limited, limited and designated duty). The program of study will continue to provide instruction in all subject areas pertaining to the license sought. Addi­ tionally, Coast Guard-certified instruction will be provided in first aid, CPR and basic and advanced firefighting in order to meeting licensing require­ ments. The course lasts 10 weeks. A guided self-study course for the purpose of en­ gineering license examination preparation also is available by special arrangement. Crane Mrintenance The six-week course of in­ struction leading to certification in Crane Maintenance consists of classroom instruction, prac­ tical shop training and training on actual functional cranes. The training is aimed at provid­ ing the essential skills required of the shipboard or shoreside crane maintenance electrician. Topics covered are deck cranes of both single and twin pedestal types, gantry type cranes of both shipboard and port terminal type, electro­ mechanical cranes, electrohydraulic cranes, electroh;^raulics andservomecfianisms, synchronous transmissions, variable speed DC drives, motor generator sets, solid state rectifiers, voltage regulators, solid state controls, brakes and limit switches, AC and DC motors, motor control­ lers, cab controls, crane opera­ tions, electrical schematics, wiring diagrams and print read- , ing, electrical and mechanical troubleshooting and general crane maintenance and repair. �K-V*:i----~'.M»-V'. OECBMBER1993 SEAFJUIEISIM •STEWARD DEPARTMENT COURSESI Assistant Cook Utility Leading to certification as assistant cook, this sevenweek course includes both classroom and on-the-job training. Topics covered are the preparation, cooking and serving of vegetables, cooked salads, sandwiches, breakfast foods and night lunches. Em­ phasis is placed on the basics of food preparation including sanitation, dietary values, work organization and the use of recipes. Cook and Baker The nine-week course lead­ ing to certification as cook and baker includes both classroom instruction and on-the-job training in the bake shop and galley. Topics covered are the baking of breads, rolls, pies, cakes, cookies and breakfast pastries. The student also will concentrate on dessert and breakfast preparations, sanita­ tion and work organization. Careful attention to recipe re­ quirements also is highlighted. Chief Cook The course of instruction leading to certification as a chief cook incudes both class­ room and on-the-job training. Topics covered in the nineweek course are the prepara­ tion of meats, poultry, seafood. soups, sauces and gravies. The student also will con­ centrate on identifying meat cuts by the use of charts. Work organization, sanitation and the use of recipes are included in the course. , Chief Steward The nine-week course in­ cludes classroom instruction supplemented by on-the-job training. Topics covered are menu planning, work super­ vision, organization, typing, in­ ventory control and requisitioning procedures. Sanitation, nutrition and safety are highlighted as well. The student will be actively in­ volved in all phases of the school^s food service super­ vision. Towboat Inland Cook Applicants in this sevenweek course receive class­ room and on-the-job instruction in food preparation on board towboats and tugs. Emphasis is on the basic methods of preparing all meals for a crew of six to 12 men. Work scheduling and or­ ganization, menu planning, purchasing, storage of sup­ plies and sanitation controls are emphasized. Candidates are trained to single-handedly man a galley. 17 ALL DEPARTMENTS-UPGRADING AND SPECIALTY COURSES Each Student attending upgrading programs at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship will par­ ticipate in certain courses as part of their regularly scheduled program. Sealift Operations and Maintenance, Physical Fitness, First Aid & CPR, Union Education and Firefighting either are required or may be taken as elective courses by upgraders in all departments. Sealift Operations and Maintenance First Aid & Cardiopul­ monary Resuscitation Students in this class learn the principles and techniques of safety and basic first aid as well as cardiopulmonary resuscitation according to the accepted standards of the American Red Cross. After successful completion of each phase of this course, students are awarded a certificate from the American Red Cross. Basic Firefighting Industrial Relations While attending upgrading courses at the Lundeberg School, all SlU members at­ tend industrial relations cour­ ses for one week. Seafarers leam how a union contract with the employer protects wages and working conditions. The rights of the union's membership as outlined in the SlU's constitution also are reviewed. Students gain an un­ derstanding Of the various laws and legislative programs which promote a U.S.-flag merchant marine. Courses also are held to provide Seafarers with full in­ formation on the many benefit plans available to qualifying members through the union's collective bargaining agree­ ments. The basic firefighting course provides the student with general knowledge of the chemistry of fire, firefighting equipment and materials, and techniques for using them safely. Upgraders receive 16 hours of classroom training and eight hours of practical Oil S^U Prevention firefighting. Upon successful and Containment completion of this course, the This one-week course con­ student is awarded a certificate sists of classroom, laboratory of completion from the Lun­ and on-the-job training exer­ deberg School which is recog­ cises. Topics of instruction in­ nized by the Coast Guard. clude types of oil and Advance petroleum products and their FIreBghting behavior on water, pollution After receiving a refresher prevention regulations, spill in basic firefighting to start the prevention and small boat two-week course, students operations. Students will leam how to blueprint a vessel receive instruction in spill con­ and organize emergency tainment booms and boom squads for firefighting. The towing configurations and course covers how to give con­ anchoring operations. General Physical Rtness cise orders using the different Also covered in the course Workout programs are in­ types of communications with is selection of absorbents, suc­ dividually designed to meet the crewmembers and land-based tion equipment and skimmers and their proper use. Upon needs of the student. Students fire units. Students also study how to completion of the course, a may participate in free weight, nautilus or universal weight inspect and service various Lundeberg School certificate training which can be used to shipboard fire extinguishing of graduation and the 24-hour equipment before going hazardous waste operations gain, lose or maintain weight. Aerobic and swimming through shipboard simulations response card, known as a and actual firefighting training. "hazwoper" card will be issuedprograms also are available. Because of the unique re­ quirements of military con­ tracts, this course is mandatory for all upgraders. For deck department upgraders, it is a four-week course; for engine and steward department students, it lasts two weeks. The course of instruction leading to the Sealift Operations and Maintenance endorsement consists of both classroom lec­ tures qnd practical application that includes underway replenishment, helicopter operation temiliarization, crane operation, forklift maneuvers, damage control familiarization, and search and rescue boat operations. Upon completion of the course, a Lundeberg School certificate of graduation will be issued. "•:y -'•--r-w-' •• •K:-. "0^i: CdMi ADULT EDUCATION PROGRAM In addition to the upgrading courses listed in this special supplement, the Adult Education program at the Lundeberg School offers a variety of courses to assist Seafarers with study skills and basic leaming proce­ dures. The courses offered include: Adult Basic Education (ABE)—Basic skills in this six-week course include individualized instruction to increase vocabulary, reading comprehension, writing ability and math skills. Enrollment for this course is open-ended. English as a SecondLanguage (ESL)—If English is not a student's primary language, this six-week course can help him or her to master the fundamentals of the language. Enrollment is open-ended. GEDPreparaf/on—This 12-week program will help students prepare for and take the GEO exam. Areas of study include math, writing, social studies, science, literature and the arts. Enrollment is open-ended. Developmental Studies — This one-week course will help students preview the vocabulary, math and study skills necessary for success in a vocational course. The course is designed to reduce anxiety about mastering vocational material for specific courses. This course should be taken during the week prior to the ment to get more information. In addition to vocational vocational upgrading course. It is offered during specific courses, students must complete a number of general education courses to earn one of these degrees. weeks in 1994. There are three eight-week sessions of college cour­ ses scheduled for 1994. These sessions correspond to COLLEGE COURSES The Lundeberg School offers two Associates of Ap­ the dates of many vocational courses so that students plied Science degrees: Marine Engineering Technology may enroll in an evening college course during the same for engine department members and Nautical Science timeframe. General education course offerings are in the follow­ for deck department personnel. If you are in the deck or ing fields: engineering, English, mathematics, physical engine (jlepartment, you have already eamed credit science and social science. toward a degree. Stop by or call the Academic Depart­ •% • 'ytwwmyyy-r. ;• - . ;'v . "tVfl - .• ••. • •-r I li �-ii. . . .V 18 i SEAFARERSLOG DECEMRER1993 <c Lundeberg Upgrading Course Schedule T he following is a course schedule for the entire new year—January through December 1994 at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship, located at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. The course schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the industry or the national interest. Seafarers should continue to consult each monthly edition of the Seafarers LOG for the most up-to-date course schedule. For additional information, contact the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, Md. 20674-0075; telephone (301) 994-0010. . -• ....' ;K^- Engine Department Upgrading Courses :;"•->•> .'"Jv- ® r-"- 'i.,. ^' • Course Check-In Date QMED - Any Rating FiremanAVatertender & Oiler Pumproom Maintenance & Operations Marine Electrical Maintenance Refrigeration Systems Maintenance & Operations Refrigerated Containers Advanced Maintenance Basic Electronics Marine Electronics Technician I Marine Electronics Technician II Hydraulics January 4 January 31 February 28 June 20 October 3 February 21 June 27 January 4 March 28 October 24 , September 12 Diesel Engine Technology Welding January 4 August 1 January 4 May 9 September 12 May 2 September 5 February 28 July 5 January 4 March 21 August 1 May 2 - Crane Maintenance Third Mate SafetySpecialty Courses March 25 October 21 February 11 June 17 October 21 . June 10 , October 14 April 22 August 26 February 11 • • April 29 September 9 June 10 Oil Spill Emergency Containment & Clean-up . --S .v;' * Check-In Date Able Bodied Seaman ,• • Bridge Management (Ship Handling) Radar Certification * - Limited License, Part 1 Limited License, Part 2 Limited License, Part 3 . • January 28 May 20 July 15 September 9 January 14 March 11 May 6 July 29 October 21n January 7 February 11 March 4 April 29 May 20 June 17 July 22 August 19 September 16 October 14 Januaiy 18 April 11 June 20 September 26 January 31 April 25 July 5 f October 10 February 14 May 9 July 18 October 24 • • .... . Lifeboatman January 28 February 25 • March 25 July 15 November 28 March 18 July 22 January 28 April 22 November 18 October 21 Inland Basic/Advanced Firefighting Tankerman Sealift Operations & Maintenance Deck Department Upgrading Courses Course Check-In Date Course Completion Date - Completion Date March 11 , Julyl August 26 October 21 January 28 March 25 May 20 August 12 November 4 January 14 February 18 March 11 May 6 May 27 June 24 July 29 August 26 September 23 October 21 January 28 April 22 July 1 October 7 February 11 May 6 July 15 October 21 February 25 May 20 July 29 November 4 Februaiy 11 May 6 August 12 October 21 August 12 January 4 March 25 July 1 September 9 April 19 Celestial ISfavigation • Completion Date February 18 March 18 June 24 July 8 September 2; October 28 January 14 January 28 February 11 March 11 April 8 f May 6 May 20 June 3 Julyl July 29 August 26 September 9 September 23 October 21 February 4 March 25 May 20 July 22 September 30 December 9 January 22 February 11 March 11 June 17 Julyl August 26 October 21 JmiuaryS January 14 January 28 February 25 March 25 April 22 May 6 May 20 June 17 July 15 August 12 August 26 September 9 October 7 January 21 March 11 May 6 July 8 September 16 'November 25 January 17 I ' ^ ^ I • 7'^ - . ' I • r-'-.' . -«' 'I I i ^ "'•I f iA J ' • ,..A . April 26 January 4 February 21 March 21 May 9 July 11 September 5 f May 21 January 28 March 18 April 15 June 3 August 5 September 30 I ' ''.-i . Ii Stewaid Department Upgrading Courses Course Check-In Date Assistant Cook, Cook and Baker, Chief Cook, Chief Steward All open-ended. Contact admissions office for starting dates. Completion Date Recertlflcatlon Programs Program Check-In Date Steward Recertification Januaiy 31 July5 March 28 October 3 Bosun Recertification » ' : -J March 7 August 8 May 2 November 7 . . SHLSS College Program Course Check-In Date Completion Date '..••'Av'" General Education College (evenings only) Developmental Studies January 10 March 4 Januaiy 10 January 17 March 7 March 14 March 21 January 14 January 21 March 11 March 18 March 25 Adult Basic Education 6 weeks - open ended English as a Second Language 6 weeks - open ended GED Preparation 12 weeks - open ended V/J •• 'i-Mm �. *:-••. .fi- - d i- TJL'?>:4 • z-y- -. -^ DECEMBER 1993 Wm I I' SETTSONS SREETINSS FROM FELLOW SEAFARERS* PENSIONERS FRIENDS AND FAMILY MEMBERS Christmas at sea. In the galley, that's where I'll be. Preparing a feast for my brothersand me.Seasons greet­ ings to them and their families. Merry Christmas guys. Stephen A. Bird To all Seafarers shipped from the Chicago hall and to all port agents and HQ staff My heartiest best wishes to all for a holiday filled with happy hours and family fun. Rememl)ering you always and Scottie Aubusson, G(^ bless his soul. Gerry Borozan To my wife Elisa Happy holidays and best wishes for a prosperous new year for us together in 1994. With dl my love, always, Vem Andrews To everyone at headquarters Happy Thanksgiving, Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year in 1994! Vem Andrews «roT» To allmy Seafarer brothers and sisters 1 wish each and every one a very Merry Christmas and a very prosperous New Year to come. Fair weather and happy sailing! Jacki, Bobbi and Ronald Aubuchon To the LNG fleet and management A very happy holiday season to all and a very prosperous New Year. Ron Aubuchon and the LNG Taurus crew Editor's Note: The holiday greet­ ings appearing on pages 19-22 were received by the Seafarers LOG at its office in Camp Springs, Md. and are printed here for the benefit of Seafarers and their families. The greetings that are printed are ones written in the holiday spirit. The LOG is not responsible for, nor vouches for, the accuracy or content of these greetings. To Tugboat Tim You own a piece of my heart and 1 love you deeply. Merry Xmas, Happy New Year, Happy Anniversary. Al­ ways and forever, hopefully together. Steamboat Ann (Anna Brenno) To Chuck and Josie Menard Merry Xmas and Happy New Year. Thank you for always being there. God bless, 1 love you. Stay warm in Ogdensburg, New York! Anna Brenno nm SN To Christiana Kilgore Greetings, Tiena! 1 have the leather skirt and some other things 1 said I'd get for you. 1 misplaced your address. You were the Ijest secretary 1 have ever had! Went to dinner in Ger­ many and shopping in Saudi Arabia. 1 live in Beverly Hills. My address is as follows: Col. James T. Brodie, 421 N. Rodeo Drive, Suite 15-128, Beverly Hills, CA 90210. Col. James Brodie (aka Abdullah) To Stephen Brown, Randy Evans, Rod Pence, Gina Lightfoot and all our friends Wishing all of you a yery special holiday season. Huiiry home, Stephen. We all miss you. Havea wonderful trip Rad-Man and Rod and Gina. See ya'll. Gwen Brown nm To AnthonyBonin Merry Christmas to you and your family. God bless. Michael Shane Conway To Jamie Watson Mele Kalikimaka - T&D. Dawn Coutermash To Yvonne Desliva and Layia 1 love and miss you. P.S. Drum set is in the mail!!! Dawn Coutermash To Rose Costango and Kane Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Love you all. Sergio C. To Peter Lois (alias Pete the Fox) Hopefully you are enjoying a nice, cold, white Xmas and you are not sweating it out on the Ivory Coast.The best the season has to offer to you and yours. God bless you, Pete. Susanne Cake To my son, Eric Lee Cake Christmas is a timeof love, joy and giving. While you're home . . . call your mother! ('cause without her you couldn't make a living). You are my pride and joy. Love, Mom (Susanne Cake) To George Hand Love and kisses, hugs and good wishes. You are always in my thoughts and prayers. Have a good one! SusanneCake To Ida Wesseln Percy and Oolite Ken­ nedy, Christian Christiansen and daughter Happy holidays! Cruz Tony Canedo To all old and new friends So many who have helped and believed that change is good—may the holidays find you and yours safe, happy and healthy. All my love and prayers, Carroll Paul BoudreauxJr. To Chief Mate Billy Bums on SS Ultrasea Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all. Mato Anzulovich uOTi To the Seafarers of Wilmington Hope all you guys are doing well and that the ship is too. Since they ended the tax on oil there, shipping should be better soon. Wish you all a very Merry Xmas and a Happy New Year. P.S. Hope everything is good with you, Jesse. Fred Collins To my family and friends Just wanted to wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Missing you, with love, Bernardo Cruz To Pegasus and MoOliver To the two individuals who gave so much unselfishly to help me walk the walk. God bless you and yours. Your friend now and always, Tiny(Boudreaux) To Bosun Mike Shappo and AB Joe Conlin on USNSCapelta Merry Christmas and H?ippy New Year to all. Malo Anzulovich To Firefighting Class 3 (May '91) May the spirit of Christmas be with all of you this holiday season whether on the l)each or out at sea. Have a Merry Christmas and a safe Happy New Year. Wade and Terri Cocek To all members, past and present 1 shall pass through this world but once, therefore any good that1can do, let me do it now, for 1 shall not pass this way again. With that message, 1 wish all the SIU members—past arid present—a very happy holiday season. 1 sure wish 1 could make one more trip to anywhere. Just to sail once more. Sincerely, George E. Bush, AB retired To SeallftPaclflcana family To allSIU brothers and sisters May the holiday season bring great joy to you and yours, and a wish of prosperity in '94 to everyone. Fair winds and following seas. Peace. Nathaniel Ayers Allin To Class 385, members, officials, staff and all the ships at sea, young Joe and family, Nini and baby-to-be, also the Virginians Aloha, Mele Kalikimaka. John Joseph Arnold To Stephen Brown,Randy Evans and Rod Pence Merry Christmas pawpaw Stephen and Rad-Randy and Rodney. Your bag babies, Stephanie and A.J. Burson To Cheryl Ann Campbell, Shelia and Ken Jr. Wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Miss and love you all "O" so much. "Sweetpea" Kenneth Lee Biddle Sr. To our friends at Maritrans Have a very happy holiday! We want to let you know you are not for­ gotten. Martha, Timmy and Chad Allen a To Stephen Brown, Randy Evans and Rod Pence Merry Christmas to my dad, Steve Brown, my good friends "Rad" Randy Evans and "Rod" Rodney Pence. I'll save you some turkey (maybe). Jill Burson To all ex-crewmembers on the USNS Ponchatoula Hello to Freddie, I.x)sckley, Joe, etc. I am doing fine, working for SIU in Puerto Rico. Hector Barnes To Ricky Borden Happy holidays to you and all Santa's little cable elves. Hope Christmas finds you where you wish to be, or at least ahead of schedule. Lisa Allard I$ To 514 Merry Christmas and all that jazz. Love, Julio Buchanan To the crew on the American Hawaii Cruise lines The best year ever in 1994. J. Eric Bull "Men at Sea" For Seamen, lights seem dim; Days seem long, and times are grim; But Christmas lights are bright; So do what you want. It's all right. Robert Bakeman ToLuzviininda I'll always remember when we first made those vows to each other. Every quiet moment we've shared. Every challenge we've faced together. And I know that the promises we made that day will continue to mean more to us through all the years ahead.. .Happy 12th anniversary. Maligayang Pasko at Manigong Bagong Taon!!! Lito (Acosia) greetings appearing on tM* page and the folUnv Olphabrtical order hp the name of the individual sending the message. The Seafarers LOG fains with those appearing below in extending season's greet­ ings to all Seafarers and their families. Happy Holidays! To Seafarers 1want to tell everyoneat homeand on aship: Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. 1 will see everyone in July 1994. Thomas M. Curley To Michelle Curtis Your husband wishes you the best Christmas any wife could have without their husband, and a Happy New Year. I'll be home soon, baby. Happy holidays. Love you, Chris (Curtis) S. To all brothers and sisters of the sea, our officialsand their families and all the office workers God's love and blessings to each one of you, with our warmest Mele Kalikimaka and Haouhle Makahiki Ho! The Canons—Feliciano, Betty, Shawn P. and Linda Todos mishermanos y hermanas en el SIU Feliz navidad y prospero ano nuevo en solidaridad y confratemidad. Bill Daniels To Karen Fensel Mele Kalikimaka Haouhle Makahiki Ho! Hope you are happy and still smiling. Miss You! Donna DeCesare To Rhonda Rigsby and Hazel Hi Girlfriends!!! Great to hear from ypu. Hope all is well with you during this holiday season. Mele Kalikimaka Haouhle Makahiki Ho! Donna DeCesare To Debbie,Eric and Cory Even though I'm not there in per­ son, I'm always there in spirit. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Jack W. Chopin To Tanya Anne Chupka The last nine Christip^s since you were lx>m have treen the best! Merry Xmas. Love, Daddy (JosephChupka Jr.) To all my union brothers and sisters Happy holidays in the spirit of solidarity and fraternity. Bill Daniels To Wiggle Reyes Mele Kalikimaka Haouhle Makahiki Ho! Stay happy and healthy during this holiday season. Miss you! Donrui DeCesare To all the officials and workers of our SIU We couldn't survive without all your help. God bless you all. Grateful­ ly yours, Betty S. Canon % •.' i•. • 1 To Judi Chester Mele Kalikimaka Haouhle Makahiki Ho!1 would send you a per­ sonal card but 1 don't have your cur­ rent address. Please send it to me and keep in touch! Doma PeCesare '•-V- • •' v i •••• �• 20 To Tommy Kline Mele Kalikimaka Haouhle Makahiki Ho! Hope a|l is well. Miss you! Donna DeCesare To Susan and Sonny Moe and Rut! and Rick DeMont To my Magnolia Sisters and their spouses; Mele Kalikimaka Haouhle Makahiki Ho! Hope everyone is happy and healthy during this holiday season! Miss you. Donna DeCesare To former shipmates and friends Seasons greetings to you. Retired in '89 with almost 47 years with SIU, now enjying life in Mobile, Ala. but miss the San Francisco waterfront crowd. Lee and Sheila deParlier To Marites S. Dizon and IMariz Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year. Romy Dizon A m «roT» To all SIU members, active and retired Good job on disasters around the world, saving lives. Keep pressure on runaway-flag ships. Happy holidays to all. John W; Doyle To Casey Edwards This is the time of year when families get together. God bless you always and watch over you always, love you today, yesterday, forever. Being my son, you make me proud, and I hope all your days are filled with smooth sailingson your horizon. I love you bigger than countries and oceans. You're my "favorite port of call." Henry B. Edwards To Robert Sutherland Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year and 365 days. You're my best friend, and I wish you smooth sailing. Also to your family. Thanks for giving me inspiration, at times, when I doubted myself. You're a friend for life. And I'd like you to know that I respect and love you very much indeed. Henry Edwards To Stephen Brown, Randy Evans and Rod Pence Merry Christmas, Uncle Stephen and Rad-Randy and Rodney. Your bag baby, Jenny Erb To Thomas C.FInnerty Once again, while seeking regeneration at sea during the holidays, I wish you a Merry Christmas and prosperous New Year. Keith W. Finnerty To Simeon F. Ureta Happy holiday season and the best of health. God bless. The Flaspoller Family To everyone in the SIU We wish all the retired and active Seafarers and staff a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. We love ya. Arthur emd Elizabeth Fontaine nm DECEMRER1993 SEAFARERS LOG To Brian Fountain Merry Christmas, daddy. All we want for Christmas is you. Lxrts of love. All your little ones Rachel, Justin, Cody and Emily (Foimtain) To the Funk family crew Merry Xmas and Happy New Year from Peter riding the big sled, LNG Virgo, in the Far East. I love and miss you all. Peter Funk To Charles Banky It's Christmastime, then New Year's alone. I find myself here. So here's a kiss to help you through. Just to Say, Hove you! Judy(Gagne) To Jess Soils Merry Christmas and Happy New Year "Marine." You show the way. All the way. Ray A. Garcia and family To Dave and Micheie McGath and family Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. May all the new years to come be as special as the last. God bless. Ray A- Garcia nOV m igrt To Cara Stinson and Misty Shaw Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, girls. Love and kisses, Jimmy G. (Garner) To the crew on the DSNS Kane I want to thank the crew on the USNS Kane for the retirement party and gift, especially Joe Jenkins and Frank Waters. I'll always remember it. Willard Huggins To Johnnie William We both miss you. Merry Xmas and Happy New Year to all seamen.. Rose and Neil Hunt To the SIU membership Greetings, especially to the old timers from WWII. Mele Kalikimaka Haouhle Makahiki Ho for my West Coast friends still hanging in. Harry R. Huston To ail SiU members Merry Xmas to all my friends from Dixie Carriers. God bless the SIU retirement plan. Merry Xmas to all. Keep up the good work, Michael Sacco. Call us at (601) 863-4230 in Gulfport, Miss, Kenneth and Audrey Gamer To family and buddies May the season find you with good health and cheer at this time and also all through the New Year. May God bless us all. Robert Gettridge III To you both I hope you' re both well. I miss you both and look forward to seeing you soon. Have a wonderful holiday. Love to all. Brian Isenstadt To all my Seafarer friends Merry Xmas and Happy New Year to Mr. and Mrs. Jeck Dusich, Ben Guttierez, James and Mike Spranza, Patrick Lynch, DEO Gonzales, Mar­ cos, Roger Linasan, Cardel Dunn, Freddie De Ramos and Romeo Quinqua. Eddie Gomez To my mother and sister and brother andfei Terneil James Just like to wish my mother and sister and brother and Temell James, my right hand man, a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Love, Marvin Earl James To my wife, Sandra, and kids Just like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Wish I was there. Love, Marvin E. James To Nancy, Jeremy and Nick Merry Xmas and a very Happy New Year. See ya soon"Isle of View." Kenny (Raymond K. Jee Jr.) To Mariano Gonzalez Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and your family. William Gonzalez To Monserate Saliva Happy holidays to you and your wife, Luz Maria. William Gonzalez To Sixto Rodriguez Happy holidays to you and your wife and children. William Gonzalez To my wife, Lisa, kids Kevin and Melynn, friends Frank and Mo Martin May the Christmas season bring you all happiness ^nd the New Year good fortunes. Miss ypu all—from the LNG Aquarius. Victor I. Jimenez To all Seafarers and their families May God's peace guard your hearts and minds. Domingo Gordian To my dearest wife, Teresa Thank you for the lOhest holiday seasons a man could ask for. Looking forward to many more. I love you. Mark A. Grendahl To all my former tugboat shipmates I wish you all the best for thecom­ ing year. Charles W. Grogan To Joseph Kalata Merry Christmas. You were puton earth to accomplish a certain number of things. Right now, you are so far behind, you will never die. Warmest thoughts, Albert Kalata ToTomGrosskurth Hey brother: I hope you have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. I'll be home having a few pints of cheer. Don't work too hard. John Grosskurth To Dennis and Sharon Tinkelenberg Best wishes for the holidays, and much happiness and good health in the New Year. Mark J. Kalmus To crew of the ITB Groton Happy holidays and safe sailing to the crew of the Groton. Take extra special care of your mascot. The Fountain family To Liz Relsman For being my confidante throughout the year... I wish you joy and plenty of cheer!! Thank you, Liz, for always being there for me! Jack E. Freeman To May, Melody and Patricia Hardy Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to my beautiful wife. May, and my wonderful daughters. Melody and Patricia. I love you and miss you al­ ways. Ross Allen Hardy To JT, Ears Thomas Hope to see you soon on the West Coast. Hope your holidays get off with a bang. Your friend Bobby Jo Freeman from Cape Farewell can't forget you. Bobby Jo Freeman To my wonderful wife, Mrs. Harrison r m sending you this holiday greet­ ing from my second home, the MV Advantage. I wish you a Merry Xmas and a Happy New Year. Kevin Harrison To Hector Guilbes Season's greetings. El que nada no seauga. . . John Katsos To Pamela Halkett My bride to be. My only wish is to see you for Christmas. I love you. Stephen Hicks To mom, dad, Kelly, Tod, Kasey and C.P.Bergeron Hope all have a Merry Xmas and an even happier New Year. See you in January. Kris (Hopkins) To Seafarers Merry Christmas to those who served with Calmar Company's Flomar and also aboard the tanker Petrochem with my deceased brother, William A. House, who died in 1974. Mildred House To ail my shipmates on the t/SAiS Kane As this is my last trip,I'll say good­ bye to all my shipmates, And to a great chief engineer, thanks a lot. Willard C. Hiiggins To Alfonso Rivera Season's greetings. To Juan Reinosa Season's greetings. John Katsos John Katsos To Mark Kotajagvi Merry Christmas. Good luck in the New Year. Wish you would reconsider Europe. Stephen M. Kay To Alice and Vem Bettencourt Hope you're having a great holiday. Miss you. Love, Steve (Stephen M. Kay) To Gloria and Jimmy Keith, Pat and Bubba Smith, Mike Keith I wish ail my family a happy holiday, and I send love to you all and may we all have a happy New Year. James C. Keith Jr. I$ Si. igg To Connie and my three daughters May this Christmas be one of our best. Hopefully I'll be there to celebrate the holidays with you. All my love, Phil (Kleinebreil) SI To crewmembers on the Dredge Long island With hopes that all have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. That we all prosper through more work under our new contract. Phil Kleinebreil •A: To the family of David Ling May you have a joyous Christmas and a Happy New Year. And good health to all through the year. Your friend and shipmate, Phil (Kleinebreil) ig^ To all my old friends Holidays bring back memories of good times and sad times we shared. Wishing my old friends health and happiness. I love you all. JeanLaCorte To Marty TIghe I didn't want to forget to include you in on the holiday cheer wherever you may be, but I'm just glad that Joel has such a fantastic SIU brother as you! Merry Christmas - Mrs. Tittleleewinx'd. P.S. GO RED WINGS! Casey Lechel ToJoelLechel I'm so PROUD to finally call you iny husband! This Christmas is going to be the greatest ever because you'll be home with me where you belong! I love you, Joel! Your wife, Kasandra Lechel ToKasandra I want to wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. We're gonna have a great life together! All my love, Joel(Lechel) To PRMMI Shoregang Season's greetings to all members at Elizabeth shoregang, and best of the year to come. Good luck. Happy holidays. Anthony Leo/ Dick Evans-Edison To Captain James Shinners and Mr. Richard Evans at PRMMI Greetings to you and your family. Have a happy holiday season from all of us at Elizabeth shoregang. T. Leo and crew To Donalds. Ling Two more grandsons to keep track of. They can't wait to see you. Hope your holidays will be safe and enjoy­ able. . . David J. Ling To the Kalmus family Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and lots of snow. Happy New Year and happy holidays. Mark J. Kalmus ToAmirKasim Hon, though you are not here with me this holiday, you are in my heart and in my mind! Wishing you Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Love always, Irma(Kasim) igg ss I ToEIHussinyEINaggar Friends like you are hard to come by. Thanks for everything. I hope to see you in New York City. Happy holidays. Nick Mdgeed �To Ray Gayton May the angels give you full guidance for every step you take in life. Happy holidays. Nick Mageed To Mimo M'egeed May Allah reward you and your family. Happy holiday. Nick Mageed ToVlkkVanburen May this holiday bring you joy and happiness to the New Year. Please remember my spirit is always with you. To Brother Anthony Leo Season's greetings to you. Wish­ ing all of you the best for the years to come. A. Minors To Ms. Sina Edwards. Greetings to you and your family. Wishing you the best for the holiday season and the coming year. Good luck and God bless you. A. Minors To Steven James Eikins Jr. Happy holidays for the fourth year in a row to my wonderful fiance. This time next year we will be spending our first Christmas as husband and wife. Love you bunches, Steve. Andrea Mitchell To Gloria and Cariitos and friends Merry Xmas and Happy New Year to you, daughter, son and friends, granddaughter, grandson. May the Lord l)e with you all. Carlos Mojica To Donna M.DeCesare Wishing you all the joy and happir ness that you deserve during this holiday season. I will always love you and cherish our time spent together. Don Montoya Nick Mageed % IT To all seamen—sailing or retired A Happy New Year and Merry Christmas. Wishing the union remains strong—^as it's always there for its members. Geraldine R. Maldonado ToJoAnne Merry Christmas and hopefully a better and Happy New Year. Love you, Stan (James S. Mannetto Jr.) To all my seafaring brothers, sisters, SlU faculty and family members I wish yoii all a Merry Xmas and Happy New Vear. Erik R. Marlowe To Zoralda - in Queens I love all the family the same, but there is something special about you. You are always there when I need you, and I wish you the best in this coming year. Tony (Martinez) To Robert Selzer and Maryann Wishing you both the best in this coming year. You two deserve it. Tony Martinez To my sister, Alice, and family in Rich­ mond1 Hill, K"" Queens Wishing you the best on this New Year. You are the best. Tony Martinez To Teresa, Star, Tig and Mo' Happy Holidays! • Charlie Mascali To Mitch, Vernon, Billy, Adrian and the rest of the SiU world HO - HO - HO. That's all we need. Plenty of HO's. Merrjt and Happy. NickMcKnett To Rufus Williams Merry Xmas and Happy New Year. Edward Merchant To my friends and fellow seamen Happy Holidays. Please write or call; Route #1, Box 157-B, Long Beach, WA 98631; (206) 642-3465. Carmen Minniti To Sedonia W. Sparks and Mom Greetings to you, Donny. Call me. Best for all of the holiday season and a Happy New Year '94, Miss you. Your love, A. Minors To Mr. Gladstone Fond and Mrs. Jasper Anderson family Season's greetings to you and your families from all of us at PRMMI shoregang. Good luck in '94. God is good. A. Minors ToM.Wescott Season's greetings to you. Merle, and the best for '94. Good luck. God bless you alK Pearl + Debbie + family. A. Minors rf. To members,personnel and retirees A Merry Xmas and a happy and prosperous New Year toall, especially Curtis Bay and Baker Whiteley employees in Baltimore—both former and present. Charley Morris To my SiU brothers and sisters I wish all my ex-shipmates and Piney Point management the best of everything and much more. Merry Xmas and prosperous New Year 1994. Jose Lopez Morales A To Jose and Alma Dehor Have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year in San Francisco. Francisco Munoz To my and Angle Have a Merry Christmas. Love, your loving husband and father, Francisco Munoz To Bernard Myers and Shirley Myers I'd like to thank my mom and dad for being there for me when I needed them both. May Allah bless them both and may they have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Amos B. Myers To my wife, Ernestine Myers I'd like to first give praise to All^, the sovereign, the holy one. And to thank Him for you, my wife and both of our health. And wishing you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Your husband, Amos B. Myers To Cynthia You are the greatest person in the world. Thanks for being patient and understanding. But mostly, thank you for all you added to my life. Love, Michael (Natoli) To my wife, Isabelie, and mom and dad I may be far away from home, but I send you all of my best. All my love to my wife and family everywhere. Brett Newsome To Nelson(Chico) Rodriguez Season's greetings my old friend from the Philippines. May you have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year in 1994. Good sailing, William (Red) Rackiey To Tom Fay, J.J., Kevin and Larayne I would like to wish a special group of people back in my old home of Hawaii a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. William (All Ports) Rackiey To all Seafarers Happy holidays to all Seafarers who survived the sinking of the Alcoa Partner in 1942 and the rest of the Seafarers who sailed with me—and everybody in Piney Point. AlPadu ToTonyLeo Happy, healthy holidays to you and your fomily. Also to all the men in the shoregang. Peter F. Patrick and Lee Patrick To Bobby Gene McMichael Christmases have come and Christmases have gone, but I never remember you celebrating one at home. Come this year! Merry Christmas, big brother. June M. Renfrow To everyone—especially those who lost family members onthe OMf Tappy holidays and my sincere sympathy. Have a Happy New Year. Joseph Ripley To Mike and Joseph Sacco and their famlles Happy, healthy holidays. Peter F. Patrick and Lee Patrick To union officials and their families In all ports Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Peter F. Patrick and Lee Patrick To Mrs. Mignonette L. Roby and kids My life has new meaning because of you guys. Through God's spirit and guidance, I pray that this holiday season be one of the most memorable ones. God bless Mignonette, Jessica and Kerry. And to Mr. and Mrs. Oliver Thomas, I love you both. Season's greetings from Kerry T. Roby Sr. To Susan and Girls (Fiiipina and Alexandria) Wishing you all a Merry Xmas and a prosperous New Year. Lots of love, Bartolome Romero Jr. To the Sorrono family Our family misses your family. It's another tropical Christmas for.us. May yours be happy and chilly. The Ruiz family ToLupeGracia Happy holidays from your son Steve, little Steven, Natalie and Dominga all the way from San Juan, Puerto Rico. God blfess. The Ruiz family To PRMMI vessel personnel Happy holidays to you and your families. Peter F. Patrick To Seafarers and retired SiUmembers and their families In those we love and see each day; Others, far away; Good friends who mean so much, And those with whom we're out of touchHappy holidays! Mose and Minnie Peacock Jr. To the membership We would like to wish all mem­ bers near and far a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. We trust you will have nice weather. May God keep all of you safe and return you home to your loved ones. The Petersen family (C.H.,J..C.LandC.A.) To Jack C., Jack S., Kermett M., Bobby S., Jonesy, Mary Ann A., Marie and Michelle May you and yours have a very joyous holiday season. May God bless your families. Sonny Pinkham To Dawn Pinkham Hello my sweet wife. I wish I could be there with you. I love you and miss you very much. Merry Christmas, honey. All my love forever, Mark (W. Mark Pinkham) 21 To the Port of Honolulu Merry Christmas Larayne from San Juan, Puerto Rico. You should see the kids now! Steve and Dominga Ruiz To everyone I've known on the West Coast Long time no sea. I've been living in Florida since 1988. Both my father and l are fine. Hope you all havea very happy holiday season. I should be in Long Beach by late 1994. I miss California very much. I'm going back out again. If you wish to write or call, I'm at 2604 14St. W., #10, Bradenton, FL 34205; (813) 746-2841. Robert A. Rush '• ••, . To the Powers family I hope this holiday is a happy one. Sorry I can't be there. I miss you all. Rick (David R. Powers) To Gladys Merry Christmas, babe. I love and miss you. You're with me always in my heart. I'll be home soon. David (Powers) To William G. Rackiey Your family wishes you a Happy Xmas and the best of New Years. Al­ ways in our hearts. God bless you and your fellow Seafarers. Mom (Mrs. Charlotte E. Rackiey). Beverly, Mary Lee, Bruce and Bobby Season's greetings from the SIU members of ROS-5 status on board the SS Curtiss in Port Hueneme, Calif. They are, from left to right, Steward/Cook William Finhandler, Electrician Kenneth Savoie, Qli/IED Jerome W. Greenlee and GUD/E Ker) Herzstein. Not present in photo is D/E Maint. Charles L. Bowen. To Mom, Mary Lee, Bruce, Beverly, Bobby and Aunt Florence Hello from the Philippines and may I wish my family a Merry Christmas and may 1994be a great one for all. God bless. William (Red) Rackiey gat To the Port of New Orleans To Joe Perez, we're sending you some monfungo from San Juan for Christmas. We're still waiting for the crawfish! Happy New Year, too. Steve and Dominga Ruiz To Jerry Lee Pike We love you and miss you alot! Have a safe trip and come home to us. Love you, Sheree, Andrea and Jerry I!(Pike) To SiU brothers and their families Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Sonny Pinkham • • •"iir To Moma Teresa, Charles and Johnny Wiley, Martie Ketchum, the class of 494, the Philips (Baby Curtis) and all Seafarers Happy holidays and Merry Christmas. Rich and Serina Sadberry To shipmates,friends, family, loved ones May the holidays fill your year with joy and cheer! Safety and happi­ ness at sea and ashore. May we never be lonely at sea this time of year. Henry D. Salles To all Seafarers- active and retired Wishing all of you a very Merry Christmas and smooth sailing into the new year. All the best to my retired buddies. K.B. (Sam) Samat To aH my retired frienlds May this holiday season bring you a world of peace and love and a new year filled with hopeand joy.Warmest wishes, Arnold Santos .-r. ^ ^ I �22 DECEMRER1993 SEAFARERS LOG To Gary Smith and family and to all my dear SlU friends May you have one of the happiest and most blessed Christmases ever. Whether at sea or on land, though we are miles apart, you will be in my heairt. Happy New Year to all. Betty Smith To Spencer Smith We love you. Daddy. Merry Christmas. Tausha and Terra Smith To Spencer and Tausha Smith Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Love ya'll!!! Mom, Jackie and Jon (Spiers) ToTerrlaLynn Smith Merry Christmas to grandma's lit­ tle angel. Love you so much!!! Grandma and Grandpa Spiers and JOn To Chris and Brien Collins Hope you have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Looking for­ ward to sailing with you guys again in the future. God bless yoii. Smooth sail­ ing. Doug Smith To Spencer and Tausha and Terra Smith Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Thanks for being there for me. God bless you. Li'l brother, Doug Smith To Jackie, Lenora and Jonathan Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. May God bless you. I'll always love and miss you. Thanks for every­ thing. Your son and brother, Doug Smith To all Erie-Lackawanna tugboatmen Wishing all of you a healthy and happy holiday season! "O.D." Smith and family To Lee Wishing you the best Christmas and happiest New Year ever. I'm so glad we'll be spending it together. Love you, Shari (Smithson) To my family It's going to be so nice to spend the holidays with the people I care about most. Wishing you all the best in '94. Love you, Shari (Smithson) To Linda Boyer and my children Very special Christmas greetings to my lady, Linda Boyer, and to my children—Donald, Christina and Jamie Lynn. I love you ALL! Everett W. Snow To Bob and Robin Williams Thanks for being there for me all these years. I couldn't have made bet­ ter friends. Season's greetings and looking forward to Florida. Jay Speer To Joseph W. Spell II Merry Christmas. May God con­ tinue to bless us and watch over you while you are away. I love you more. Love, Christina, Spot and Barney (Spell) To all of our friends, family and as­ sociates at sea God bless all of you and yours at Christmas and always. Keep Christ in yourChiistmas. The Spell Family (Joel, Janis, Joe II, Christina, Joel Jr. and Taryn) To the Spells Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Hope all wishes come true for the holiday season. Lenora, Jackie & Jon Spiers To Donna Joyce Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to Terra Lynn's other grandma. Are you enjoying the sunshine? Lenora, Jackie & Jon Spiers To Carl Happy Hanukah, dpar friend. Be well and happy. Hope to see you in 1994. Jim and Mary Watson To Stewarddepartment personnel Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all my students and friends. Ed White To Geraldine M. Travers Thinking of you and counting the days. I love you, honey. Have a beauti­ ful Christmas and happy holidays. Love, Glenn (Williams) To everyone Happy holidays and best wishes to all. We hope 1994 is a prosperous year for all of you. James Woods and Family ToKerrI I'm sorry I can't be with you this holiday season. I want you to know I love you and miss you very much. Kevin (Wray) To Clyde D. Smith Merry Christmas and Happy New year, darlin!!! Love and miss you. Looking forward to seeing you on December 27. Yes, Santa is coming to see you. Mom. Jackie and Jon (Spiers) To Jim Stafford on the Sugar Island Our thoughts and our hearts are with you always. We couldn't ask for a better husband and father. Merry Christmas. We love you. Your wife Lisa and daughter Catie (Stafford) To Seafarers around the world Holiday greetings. Good health and smooth sailing. Love to all. Fritz A. Stephen To the officers, staff and all Seafarers and their families May the holiday spirit of love, joy, peace be ever in your hearts at Christmas and always. God loves you, and so do I. Leon Yearwood SL To Brother Peter Patrick and family Season's greetings. Wishing you the best in your retired years. From all of us at the Elizabeth Shoregang, God bless you. Elizabeth, NJ Shoregang To Reeves, Cooper, family I wish you all happiness and love, especially my godchild. I will return like Santa with gifts for him, I promise. I love ya! To everybody else that knows me, peace and love forever! God bless. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. James Tolan Jr. To SlU officials at NY and Camp Springs Greetings to all. God bless youand good luck for 1994. PRMMI Shoregang ToDeeAnn Brown Meiry Christmas Dee! We love you. We'll miss you. Pegasus To Steve and Domlnga Ruiz and family 1 wish 1 could be there to deliver this message in person, but 1 can't. So many times during the past year, both of you have been there for me so much and so many times. Times when 1 thought 1 couldn't make it through another day. With your love and sup­ port I'm getting there. For the holidays 1 wish you both and the kids nothing but love and all the good things God has to offer. Love always. Your sister Christine and family To Simeon F. Ureta Love and best wishes for a happy and healthy holiday season. With many more. The Ureta Family To all my shipmates Many blessings and Aloha. Suzanne Van Schoor w To Norm, Gus, Cara, Garret, GIno, Grant, Kenny, Bobby and Joe Although we may not be sailing together right now, our thoughts are with all of you. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Jim and Mary Watson O -9 Misc To Misty Lee Haladyna The best girl a guy could eyer dream of. Merry Christmas. I love you infinitely. I can't wait 'til 4-31-94 so I can call you my wife! Lee J. Toczylowski am # m To the Taber and Parley families Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to Kayla, Christopher and Paige Taber. Also to the rest of the Taber and Darley families. Tommy and Debbie Taber m igr« 5-^ '4 ToMlchael Merry Christmas honey. Happy New Year too! The holidays won't be the same without you. Come home to me soon. 1 love you always. Linda To Uncle Steve, Aunt Domlnga, Steven and Natalie We love and miss all of you very much. Have a very happy holiday. We hope Santa brings you everything you want. Uncle Steve and Aunt Dominga—thanks for everything. Christopher, Tute and Bear To Brotlier David Clarke We wish you a Merry Christmas full of joy and a great NeW Year. We thank you for your understanding and friendship. Sincerely, Veronika and Frank To Willie J. Cromwell We wish you a Happy Christmas and New Year in the company of your family. Take care of yourself. Veronika and Frank To Johnny Zep^a Christmastime comes once a year Time to remember those far and near Wishing you all the best Because you are definitely Different from the rest. Love always, Your Princess To Laurie 1 hope everything >s working oUt for you. 1 often wonder how you're doing. Love you and miss you. Merry Christmas, Happy New Year. Ray W? Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from the galley gang aboard the Sea-Land Trader. Joining in the holiday wishes are, from left to right. Chief Cook Richard Manalo, Steward/Baker Joe Johnson and Steward Assistant Lloyd Lawrence. 'li- nm ToKelster Hey Dude, Merry Christmas!" The Pegster To Tommy Dowdell Keep comin' back. L' V you. Merry Christmas. I'egasus To Jenny Marquis Merry Christmas. Love you. Peg-a-Leg ToDorraySaberon Hey Saberon. Merry Christmas. Pegasus To all our brothers and sisters of the sea Wishing all of our fellow union members a safe, happy and joyous holiday season. Good luck in the New Year. Happy sailing. The crew of the Cable Ship Global Link To Donna Joyce We love and miss you. Merry Christmas. Your baby girls To Steamboat Annie Best wishes and happy holidays to a first-class lady who's always so loving and understanding. We know the best years are still ahead! Love ya, Tim ToTonyCurran Miss you. Have a wonderful holiday. SOS. Are you still working for food in N.H.? Lauren To Suzanne Van Schoor Happy holidays. Hope you are well and working for a good steward. Drop us a line sometime. M/VLummus To big, bad Merchant Marines Pleasant sailing. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Fret not! You'll soon be home with your families. Barbi To Big Brother Larry and Sister KImmi Happy, Happy, Joy, Joy and Merry Christmas. I've got you babes! Barbi The Clucas family Although far away, 1 may be, a very Merry Christmas from me. Love always, Barbi To mommy and daddy Merry Christmas. 1 love you. Barbi TOJ.J.P. "Keep feedin' that pesky white dog!!" Can't hardly - (but will) wait 'til Mardi Gras '94!! Miss you much, Chris To fellow upgraders Thank you forbeing so nice to me. Merry Christmas. Dakota To Marilyn, Corey, Allie and Ruthy Joe Thanks for hanging in there while I've been away so long. Love you. Dad To mom and dad (Gerri and Bemie) Merry Christmas and God bless. Your daughter, Dorray To Dakota, mom and family Happy holidays. God bless you al­ ways. Love, Cheryl To Phillip Yaros Merry Christmas! We love and miss you! Have fun over the holidays. We'll see ya soon for Christmas #2. Keep in touch! Terry and Ed To Phillip Yaros Happy Thanksgiving. Merry Christmas. We all love and miss you. We'll keep up the tree! You're in our hearts. Be careful. God bless. Love you, Pat and kids To Stanley M. Williams Merry Christmas! We love you! We miss you! See you soon! Donna, Morgan, Destiny To Rodney J. Pence Wishing for a Christmas with you! We love you! We miss you! We will have the best Christmas ever when you get home! Love you, Scotty, Kerstyn, Keeley and Kelly ^ - I �Lakes Mobile Orleans 1^ 9J ijfbonvilk 27 •^P-^nciscofg f^WRfco I Honolulu / Houston V7"''0'3.Febn,ao-9 o r^'-Louis ' I^ Poim Mgonac I « ^ Toia/s Port ^ewYorlc PWfedetol.in 'J f^timore ? ^ 26; , 3 .6 6 ^obiie , I re ^0 ^ // 20 I 0 0 0 2 2 2 6 16 1A . 1 isj - 9 J 1 no .^rOrieuns 3^ J2 12 ' ^WoRipo Honolulu Huston f• to,,;., ^'sonac 'o<als (Port HowVorlt ^odelphia °o""iiore NorfbJJc Mobile Orleans ^aclcsonviZie 3 ,1 In i 0 ' 10 6 6 , I 0 n 0 " ' 0 n 0 a»> '•0 f ^ ' 6 ? 3 4 J * 0 0 , .... 0 ' 0 1 " IS •' 93 J7 ,f •'' 2'» . 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'Z m g," ^2^141 *nc ^ 0 n 40 0 ^ " n 079^ ,^''Concord •'^"P'-one ,9031 I r / ' ^' . i / "3 13 « I y-3anua,,„_p '^''^'agton,TM I 2 • i ••AO o 0 , 2 Q ^ February 11 Monday Ta„^on ' ? 2- ^ • • • • 2 ^ Houston —'"oiun atouis f^yPoint ^^gonac " "totals Port °^ttunore ^orfojjt AlobiJe „ n 11 l^acksonvi/Je l^Rico WonoiuJu •".UBday. ""^ ^••'^""oo-O.Pebnru,^,^ 2Sg "^embe - "**''I^OPA r—'"^-ICS • , r. �s^Mensioc ~~~~ -iz ^^CEMBC/i 1993 ;;?V' Mi^aelSacco President _ John Fay Secretary-Treasurer Joseph Sacco E''«...veVi„Sdem ^Company/Lakes ^^--Company/Lakes . Port *^OTAL REGISTERED Class CL^rP^l'P® Class L Class NP l^^-ZVlsTZs, Algonac Port Algonac 5 Vice President Sf Coast 0 Total Registered" m If" IM'— ^1*—^Non Priority WALSHIPPED Class rt ass CL Class L C/assNP -" 10 ® JUS C'-CL^Src,»,Hp ENGINE DEPARTMENT ST®»WRDDmRTl4NT ] ^2 ON BEACH DEPARTMENT 2 Hvrnn L—Lakre 3 17 lakes ^ •' ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 0 'TT— ^6 - (5 " ^ ,2 17 ,, oyy-u675 «0fc?»D. At"'- ^""rKtverDr Alconac. MI dsnnr Owpatchei^^e^-;^^ MI 48001 (313) 794-4988 JOM^TIMORE Rajf • Baltimore St Baltmore, MD 21202 (410)327-4900 DlltJmr ™5Med?c'Sl„„,. ^^luOi,MN 55802 '"® (218)722-4^ fMOWJLU Region !on Class A^j£™r Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast c 5 ^es& Inland Wateres West Coast Totals Region Kahhi St. .S?& (904)353^0987^ ag^^y CITY 3 99MO„|OS|, Montfompnr CA 9' Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Totals NWBEMORO '^^^partmenic eJ^y'vpRK , BroQ^^NY II232 (71^499-6600 NORFOLK - , „(804)M2:ii^'°;; g PWLADELPHIA O 0 ' ' 0 Inland Wat^ WestCoast Totals Region JacWvil£^gy|'— Bckliih^sp'i'-. 1^ V 71 21 n ® Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast 059-5152 ClassB cikssC _ 0 0 2 ^ II " 7^ 76 15 n .... 0 2< 26 « o Class C 0 ;; 0 0 « ^ 0 u 7 7 0 " 89 36 11 -5 ^ , - . 36 "<r, • < n 0 0 5 , 0 0 0 7 STEWARD DEPARn^NT "•T'® "®''^«TMENT '' >^ > Q /% V - 0 0 0 « « « 0 •" 3 : i "o ° « 5 2 2 - « S ^ Welfare Plan Seafarers patient dependent caL plan rL"nS Sm (heir families to at/ i, ^nd fonn a copy of the m ^ g|E 4 member's most vessels, the^sSf^grs^^S' reminds them to ""Charges andleave them^wto"x'ta P ' - ', 4'if 4^'/'' '4 ' ,r •' <, 'f_, • J 15 '" 4 4 -0.i 0 7 3> 3 1' 18 f WiS^^e ;• ,, . • ^ n''''".-4 ,47 •; g^P^Sre •»''-;;Vvr^• .4^ • • ^ available aSL?hT are i"g the SeaZemWe r ^^t520lAuthWav a-, hfere Plan at 20746. Springs, MD im7i7®'^NTURCE .• ' 0 ^•ecent discharge a, .. 4. seatime. ^ Proof of (disisei-Soo^'"""™ 4.. ; - i . J Imonrton* Government Service/n;,- • r «TO .i' San Saafe Fremont St. (206jHl.ll%^^ 0 2 - ® n30%&4 1501)994-0010 " Seattle, WA 9Sioi 04 ** 0 0 ] . ,v. n 1/ 3 - > 5 0 , 2 •, 0 i-, ®'^P''*'®®EPARTIVffiNT 1 ^ ^^'STERED ON BEACH C.a»A^&rc,^^- ^ 0 0 —- POINT P p. Box 75 ®1H,EllWCISCO ^ CJassA ^0""^ DErIf 4^ y - ^:44 '4 < 9. J.Ji-'"'' r r? • -'t ;j �ft •v. • DECEMBER 1993 SEAFARERS LOG SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR SEAFARERS PENSION TRUST To Our New Pensioners ... Thanks for a Job Well Done This is a summary of the annual report of the Seafarers Pension Trust EIN 13-6100329 for the year eiuied December 31, iS>92. The annual report has been filed with the Internal Revenue Service, as required under the Employee Retire­ ment Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Each month in the Seafarers LOG, the names ofSIU members who recently have become pensioners appear with a brief biographical sketch. These men and women have served the maritime industry Well, and the SIU and all their union brothers and sisters wish them happine'^s and health in the days ahead. J oining the growing number of SIU pensioners this month are 14 Seafarers who have retired to the beach after many years of sailing the world's seaways. Brother Charles Jordan has been a Seafarer longer than any of the others, having joined the union in>1945 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Brother Ernest Bryan com­ pleted the bosun recertification program at the Harry iTundeberg School of Seamanship in 1974 while Brother Carroll Kenny completed the steward recertification in 1986. Nine of the 14 retiring their books attended upgrading cour­ ses in Piney Point, Md, at least once during their seafaring careers. Brief biological sketches of Brothers Bryan and Kenny as well as the others follow. CARROLL KENNY, 66, joined the union in 1948 in the port of New York. Bom in Burtmm, Minn., he successfully completed the steward recertification program at Piney Point in 1986. Brother Kenny served in the U.S. Army from 1951 to 1977. He lives in Hephzibah, Ga. JOSEPH KORCHAK,65, signed on with the SIU in 1969 in the port of New York. A native of Star Junction, Pa., he sailed in the deck department. Brother Korchak upgraded frequently at the Lundeberg School. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1946 to 1947. He resides in Ridgefield, N.J. BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENT Benefits under the plan are provided by the Trust. Plan expenses were $29,054,441. These expenses included $3,315,236 in administrative expenses, and $25,739,205 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 24,108 persons were participants in or beneficiaries of the plan at the end of the plan year, although not all of these p^sons h^ yet earned the right to receive benefits. The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $493,711,389 as of December31,1992compared to $478,001,893 asof January 1,1992. During the plan year, the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $15,709,496. liiis increase included unrealized appreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the current value of assets at the beginning of the year plus the cost of any assets acquired during the year less the current value of assets at the end of the year. The plan had total income of $44,763,937, including employer contribufions of $12,283,861, gain of $3,659,232 from thesale of assets, earnings from investments of $28,817,178 and other income of $3,666. an FOWT. Brother McMichael served in the U.S. Navy from 1946 to 1952. He calls Reno, Nev. hoine. EUELLE SCROGGINS,66, joined the union in 1947 in the port of New York. Bom in Alabama, he sailed in the deck depart­ ment. Brother Scroggins retired to Houston. MINIMUM FUNDING STANDARDS An actuary's statement shows that enough money was contributed to the plan to keepit funded in accordance with the minimum funding standards of ERISA. YOUR RIGHTS TO ADDITIONALINFORMATION You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any pah thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: 1. An accountants'report. 2. Assets held for investment. 3. Actuarial information regarding the funding of the plan. 4. Service provider and trustee informafion. 5. Reportable transactions. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of Mr. Nicholas J. Marrone who is the plan administrator, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746, (301) 899-0675. The charge to cover copying costs will be $3.20 for the full annual report, or $.10 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and aixompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan at 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, DC, or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: Public Disclosure Room N4677, Pension and Welfare Benefit Programs, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W.. Washington, DC 20216. FRIDTJOF STEELREATH, 65,began his sailng career with the SIU in 1971 in the port of DEEP SEA Mobile, Ala. A Charlottesville, ERNEST Va. native, he sailed in the deck department. Brother Steelreath BRYAN, 65, signed upgraded at the Lundeberg on with the School in 1981. He served in Seafarers in the U.S. Navy from 1947 to 1955 in the THOMAS 1950 and in the U.S. Air Force port of New MARKHAM, from 1952 to 1969. He resides York. A na­ 62, joined in Theodore, Ala. tive of the INLAND Seafarers in Freeport, Texas, he successful­ 1957 in the ly completed the bosun recer­ JAMES port of Seat­ tification course at the McClvARENCE tle. A North Lundeberg School in 1974. JR., 67, Carolina na­ Brother Bryan retired to Se­ joined the tive, he sailed in the deck quin, Texas. Seafarers in department. Brother Markham 1950 in the served in the U.S. Army from JOSE port of New. 1948 to 1951. He calls Seattle CARAOrleans. A home. native of BALLO, New York City, he sailed in the 48, joined OSCAR deck department. Brother Mcthe union in MAR­ Clarence served in the U.S. 1969 in the TINEZ, 66, Marine Corps in 1946. He calls port of New began his New Orleans home. York. Bom sailing in Pajardo, career with P.R., he sailed as a DEU. WILLIAM the union in Brother Caraballo upgraded at QUINN,62„ 1975 in the the Lundeberg School in 1982. joined the port of lie resides in Brooklyn. union in Yokohama, Japan. Bom in the 1977 in the Philippines, he sailed in the port of Nor­ WILLIAM deck department. Brother Mar­ folk, Va. DOUGLAS, tinez retired to San Francisco. Bom in 65,joined Upper the SIU in RICHARD Chester, Pa., he sailed in the McCAUS1961 in the steward department. Brother LAND,66, port of New Quinn served in the U.S. Navy York. Bom joined the from 1951 to 1955. He retired SIU in 1967 to Virginia Beach, Va. inPetrolia, in the port Ontario, he of Seattle. A sailed in the deck department. Correction native of Brother Douglas upgraded at In last Piney Point in 1979. He served Pennsyl­ month's in the U.S. Army from 1950 to vania, he sailed as a chief cook. edition of Brother McCausland upgraded 1953. Brother Douglas resides, the frequently at Piney Point. He in Las Vegas. Seafarers served in the U.S. Army and LOG, the U.S. Coast Guard between new pen­ 1944 and 1952. He lives in BarCHARLES sioner nett Banks, Fla. JORDAN, Angelo 65, began his Romero was incorrectly filing career BOBBIE identifed as a recertified with the Sea­ McMICHAEL, bosun. Brother Romero suc­ farers in 1945 65, became cessfully completed the in the port of an SIU menasteward recertification Mobile, Ala ber in 1958 course at the Seafarers An Alabama in the port Harry Lundeberg School of native, he sailed as a DEU. of New Or­ Seamanship in 1983. Brother Jordan upgraded at the leans. A na­ Brother Romero retired to Lundeberg School in 1975. He tive of Brooklyn, NY. retired to Mobile. Hattiesburg, Miss., he sailed as 25 SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION In accordance with Department of Labor Regulations the net realized gain of $3,659,232, as shown above, is computed on the "market-to-market basis"—the difference between the sales price and the market value of an asset as of January 1,1992; or if the asset was both acquired and disposed of within the plan year, it is the difference between the purchase and sales price. The net appreciation in fair value of investments of $5,803,137 as shown on the financial statements includes a net realized gain of $13,507,985, thedifference between the sales price and the original cost of the asset. New Tear's Resclution: Apply for Sciioiarshlp What better way to celebrate the new year—-1994—than by making a resolution to continue your education. To get the ball rolling, start the application process now. By completing the entry form and other necessary paperwork, a Seafarer, bis or her spouse and unmarried dependent children may be eligible to receive a Seafarers scholarship. Seven scholarships will be awarded in 1994. Three are reserved for SIU members; the other four will be awarded to spouses and dependent children of Seafarers. Eligibility requirements are spelled out in a booklet which contains an application form. It is available by filling out the coupon below and returning it to the Seafarers Welfare Pl^. Once all the paperwork (which includes an auto­ biographical statement, photograph, certified copy of birth certificate, high school transcript, letters of reference and SAT or ACTT results) has been completed and the application form is fiUed out,the entire pack­ age should be sent to the Seafarers Welfare Plan on or before April 15,1994. P lease send me the 1994 SIU Scholarship Program book- ' which contains eligibility information, procedures for applying and the application form. :let I Name I Book Number. Address 1 City, State, Zip Code I - Telephone Number. This application is for: Self Dependent I Mail this completedform to Scholarship Program, Seafasrers Welfare Plan, § • 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. • L • -A- . J-.'.:'" - �•i.:. -••i-.: -i'-] •i i; 26 DECEMRER1993 SEAFARERS LOG Chairman announced slop chests to gave vote of thanks to galley gang for Delegate John Day, Steward be closed on all Sea-Land vessels. He Delegate Cesar Lago. Chairman fine job. Next port: Sri Lanka. reported copies of new contract reported crew waiting for news con­ should be received soon. No beefs or OVERSEAS OHIO (Maritime Over cerning new contract and asked con­ disputed OT reported. Chairman told seas), September 18—Chairman tracts department to notify ship by crewmembers to expect changes in James Crane, Secretary E. Gray fax or radio message when informa­ watch system and work rules. He Sr., Educational Director D. Secretary tion becomes available. The S&riarere LOG attempts to print as many digests of union ship- Shoulders, Engine Delegate Paul reminded members no smoking in reminded crewmembers to donate to board iriinutes as possible. On occasion, because pfsfmce Barbadillo, Steward Delegate Jorge SPAD. Educational director urged lounge or mess halls and not to use iimitattons, some sriii be omitted. Barahona. Secretary announced too much soap in washing machine. members to upgrade at Piney Point. Bosun Fred Domingo resigned from Next.port: Tacoma, Wash. No beefs or disputed OT reported. SA/ps minutes first are rewewed by the union's contract department chairman position to devote more, Steward department reminded crew Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the time to bosun duties and study new SUGAR ISLANDER (Pacific Gulf to keep ship clean and have respect Marine), September 30—Chairman Union upon receipt of the ships minutes. The minutes are then for- contract. He also informed crew an­ for fellow shipmates. Next port: William Dean, Secretary M. warded to the ^aterem LOG. nual inspection was huge success and Tacoma, Wash. Thornton, Educational Director extended congratulations to crew­ Eddie Johnson, Deck Delegate G. SEA-LAND INTEGRITY (Seamembers from master for excellent CHARLES L. Bf?OlV/V (Tran­ Lauderdale and Tampa, Fla. Land Service), September 26—Chair­ Corelll, Engine Delegate G. Denjob done keeping vessel in excellent soceanic Cable), August 27—Chair­ Secretary congratulated union offi­ nesse. Steward Delegate L. Perales. man J. Ard, Secretary P. Lahoy, condition. Educational director en­ man Jeremiah Harrington, cials on new contract and thanked Chairman reported no launch service Educational Director Dennis Baker, couraged crewmembers to take Educational Director W. Carroll. them for considering suggestions last voyage when anchored off Ft. tankerman course at Paul Hall Center Steward Delegate Charles RatclifT. Chairman announced payoff in from members. Educational director Lauderdale, Fla. He asked contracts Crew reported Seafarers LOGs as soon as possible arid reminded Honolulu and reported vessel will advised eligible brothers and sisters department to keep crewmembers in­ received. No beefs or disputed OT QMEDs and all crewmembers to remain on cable repair standby status. to upgrade at Lundeberg School. No formed on new contract. Educational reported. Crew thanked galley gang upgrade at Piney Point annually. No He also noted repairs scheduled for beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew director urged members to upgrade at for great food. Chairman thanked beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew October may be postponed. Educa­ extended vote of thanks to steward Lundeberg School and utilize every­ crew for great job all around. Next requested patrolman to board vessel tional director reminded crewmemdepartment for great cookout. Galley thing union has built for membership. port: Boston. and discuss new contract at next port. bers not to overload washers and gang thanked crew for help in setting Crew gave vote of thanks to steward dryers and to avoid using too much up and breaking down cookout area. department. They also voted to ratify detergent that could overflow onto Next port: Norfolk, Va. new contract and discussed repair deck. Treasurer reported $500 in LIBERTY SEA (Liberty Maritime), list. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. ship's fund. No bwfs or disphted OT September 26—Chairman Daniel reported. Crew requested new movies OVERSEAS VALDEZ (Maritime Laitinen Jr., Secretary James and another pay phone on dock for Overseas), September 26—Chairman Thacker, Educational Director Wal­ members' use. Robert Zepeda, Secretary Tyler Lafter Chancy, Deck Delegate Mark fitte. Deck Delegate Ernest Zepeda. CHARLESTON (Apex Marine), Wooley. Chairman thanked steward Chairman reported crew waiting for September 19—Chairman Anthony department for job well done. union representative to come aboard Melvin, Educa­ Treasurer reported $96 in ship's fund. IVIaben, Secretary G. vessel for members to vote on con­ tional Director G. Montgomery, No beefs or disputed OT reported. tract. Educational director reminded Deck Delegate Gregorio Ortiz, En­ Crew requested new diyer and slop members to upgrade skills at Lun­ chest for crew laundry. gine Delegate Thomas McArdle, deberg School. Crew reported Steward Delegate Angel Correa. NEDLLOYD HOLLAND (Sea-Land Seafarers LOGs received. Crew Chairman reported Seafarers LOGs Service), September 26—Chairman reported all members happy with new received. Educational director urged contract and Norberto Prats, Secretary Diego gave vote of thanks to members to upgrade at Piney Point. Hatch, Educational Director Donalo steward department for job well done. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Bush, Steward Delegate Salahi Crew stated ice machine in crew OVERSEAS VIVIAN (Maritime Yusef. Educatipnal director urged mess needs repair. Next port: Wil­ Overseas), September 29—Chairman members to upgrade skills at Paul mington, Calif. J. Zepeda, Secretary E. Habor, En­ Hall Center. Deck delegate reported gine Delegate J. Fonvllle, Steward DUCHESS (Ocean Shipholding), disputed OT. No beefs or disputed Sailing together aboard the Sea-LandIndependence are (from left) AB Delegate E. Mathews. Chairman September 19—Chairman Ronald OT reported by engine or steward Erik Jensen, Chief Mate Paul Willers and AB Chris Christensen. Dailey, Secretary James Tucker, reported payoff and encouraged crew­ delegates. Crew gave vote of thanks Educational Director Olifidio to galley gang for job well done. members to discuss with him any SEA-LAND PATRIOnSeaLand No beefs or disputed OT reported. Esquivel, Engine Delegate Willie problems they may be experiencing. Service), September 26—Chairman Crewmembers asked for copy of new NEWARK BA Y (Sea-Land Service), Frank, Steward Delegate Miguel Educational director urged members S. Evans, Secretary R. Castillo, agreement to be sent to ship. Next September 12—Chairman Pedro Aguilar. No beefs or disputed OT to upgrade at Piney Point. No beefs Educational Director R. Blackwell. port: New Orleans. reported. Crewmembers requested new Sanchez, Secretary N. Battle, Educa­ or disputed OT, reported. Chairman Chairman reported fresh stores tional Director Angel Mercado, washing machine for laundty room. USNS WYMAN(Bay Ship Manage­ reminded crewmembers to take ad­ needed. He reminded crew to Deck Delegate Benjamin Bess. ment), September 7—Chairman vantage of all courses at Lundeberg separate trash and place properly in GAL VESTON BA F(Sea Land Ser­ Chaiiman asked contracts department Robert Seratt, Secreta^ Cecil School. trash room. He aslred contracts depart­ vice), September 12—Chairman for more updated information con­ Husted, Deck Delegate Warren ment for information concerning new Carlton Hall, Secretary R.D. Bright. cerning new contract. Delegate Thomas Miller, Engine ROBERT E. LEE (Waterman contract. Chairman thanked crew for Chairman asked crew to help keep Stead, Steward Delegate Charles Steamship), September 12—Chair­ OOCL INNOVATION (Sea-Land keeping ship clean. Educational direc­ Brooks. Chairman ship clean. Crew asked contracts reminded crew­ man William Penny, Secretary An­ Service), September 19—Chairman tor reminded crewmembers to watch department to send information con­ members to keep ship clean. Educa­ thony Rivera Jr., Educational Ahdulla Moshin, Secretary Edward safety films and to report safety cerning SIU retirement plan. No tional director encouraged members Director William Thomas, Deck Collins, Educational Director hazards on ship to department head. beefs or disputed OT reported. to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. No Delegate James Tims, Engine Donald Christian, Deck Delegate He announced Lundeberg School Delegate John Lewis, Steward HUMACAO (Puerto Rico Marine), Douglas Hodges, Engine Delegate upgrading schedules posted. No beefs beefs or disputed OT reported. The ipurser said new company will con­ Delegate N. Butler. Chairman an­ September 7—Chairman L. Felix Camacho, Steward Delegate or disputed OT reported. Crew tinue safety bonuses with minor chan­ nounced crew had not received Ri^rigues, Secretary G. Rios. Chair­ Peter Hausmann. Chairman an­ thanked steward department for job Seafarers LOGs last trip. Secretary man reported union representative nounced payoff in Charleston, S.C. well done. Next port: Oakland, Calif. ges. Chairman announced ship will be restocked in shipyard and asked discussed state-of-the-art training He remind^ crewmembers to keep came aboard ship to read new con­ programs at Paul Hall Center. He also SEA-LAND RELIANCE (Sea-Land that all requests be posted. tract. Crew asked contracts depart­ crew lounge clean and to upgrade at Service), September 27—Chairman discussed importance of donating to Piney Point. Secretary thanked crew ment to find out why sailipg board is GLOBAL SENTINEL (Tran­ R.E. McGonagle, Secretary Jullq SPAD to preserve union and continually changed when docked in for keeping pantry clean and orderly. soceanic Cable), October 8—Chair­ Roman, Educational Director E. American seamen's job secinity. port of San Juan. ' Educational director reminded crew­ man Joe Olson, Secretary K. Rosiek, Frederickson, Steward Delegate Educational director reported new members not to take videotapes or US GROTON(Sheridan Transporta­ VCR outside crew lounge. He also washer and dryer for crew ordered by LIto Acosta. Chairman reported crew Educational Director Cliff McCoy, Steward Delegate D. Nason. Chair­ tion), September 29—Chairman Neil reminded members to upgrade at Lun­ company. He announced new movies needs new VCR and antenna. Crew­ man announced aluminum cans no Matthey, Secretary Marvin members discussed new contract and ordered after last ones stolen in port. deberg School. Treasurer aimounced longer to be saved because of excess Deloatch, Educational Director A. gave vote of thanks to Recertified No beefs or disputed OT reported. $26 in ship's fund. Deck delegate bulk created during months at sea. Alexalds, Engine Delegate Angel Crewmembers noted they were await­ Steward Roman for good salad bar reported cUsputed OT. No beefs or Crew noted Seafarers LOGs not Bruno, Steward Delegate Michael and Chief Cook Acosta for great ing latest information regarding new disputed OT reported by engine or being received. Chairman reported Hammock. Chairman announced cooking with extra attention to contract. Steward department steward delegates. Crew asked con­ vessel will load for four or more days payoff and loading schedule for Fort details. Secretary thanked crew for, reported ship needs to be supplied tracts department for latest news and relocation jmint has not yet been cooperation in keeping mess hall and regarding contract negotiations. Crew with more fresh fhtit, milk and paper determined. Treasurer stated $94 in crew lounge clean and encouraged bags in New Orleans for next trip. requested new chairs for crew lounge crew's fund. No beefs or disputed OT those with enough sea time to Crew thanked contracts department and discussed use of walkie-talkies reported. Crew discussed member­ upgrade at Paul Hall Center. for gains in medical benefits for de­ on vessel. Vote of thanks given to ship for crewmembers at seamen's Treasurer reported new movies pur­ pendents and asked contracts depart­ steward department for job well chased in port. He announced request library. They also held safety meeting ment to keep pushing for added done. and discussed need for more safety list posted and ready for new ideas. dental coverage in next contract. harnesses and respirators. Chairman OVERSEAS CHICAGO (Maritime Crew gave special note of thanks to No beefs or disputed OT reported. talked about creating a standard set of Overseas), September 26—Chairman Chief Steward Rivera and galley Next port: Tacoma, Wash.. crane operation signals. Crew gave Daniel Telchman, Secretary J.E. gang for excellent job. Secretary and SPIRIT(Sea-Land Ser­ vote of thanks to steward department Lewis, Deck E>elegate Michael crew gave vote of thanks to San Fran­ SEA-LAND vice), September 26—Chairman for excellent job. Next port: Eaton, Engine Delegate Edward cisco Port Agent Nick Celona for job Howard GIbbs, Secretary Leonard Newington, N.H. Mlilseiihant, Steward Delegate Karen well done. Lelonek, Educational Director Brian Denny. Chairman discussecj new con­ Connell, Steward Delegate Clarence ITB NEWYORK(SheTidan SEA-LAND CRUSADER (Seatract with crewmembers. Treasurer Transportation), October 3—Chair­ Page. Educational director advised Land Service), September 20—Chair­ reported $200 in movie fund. No man Mario Romero, Secretary R. members to upgrade at Piney Point. man HJ. Berggren, Secretary N. beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew­ Hicks, Educational Director Richard Andrews, Educational Director O.N. No beefs or disputed OT reported. members voted on contract. Natoll. Chairman reported everything Chairman reported new contract Bermeo, Steward Delegate Ben­ OVERSEAS HARRIETTE posted and room inspection will be at­ running smoothly and payoff in New jamin Corpus. No beefs or disputed (Maritime Overseas),September 26—• OT reported. Deck delegate requested tended by unlicensed member. Next York. He thanked deck department Chairman Peter Victor, Secretary for job well done on tank cleaning. port: Oakland, Calif. chairs for watchstanders on bridge. H.G. WUIIams, Educational Director Next port: San Juan. Educational director encouraged striking a pose in the engine SEA-LAND TACOMA (Sea-Land C. Jefferton, Steward Delegate members to upgrade skills at Piney room of the J.E.B. Sfuarf while in Service), September 30—Chairman SEA-LAND DEVELOPER (SeaHt»th Byran. Chairman reported Point. No beefs or disputed OT Diego Garcia are (from left) Land Service), September 23—Chair­ Joseph Artis, Secretary Ralph sniooth discharge of cargo in Chile. reported. Chairman thanked entire Wiper Steve Fisher andQMEDs Alexander, Educational Director C. man D. Cella, Secretary D. Polzfai, No beefs or disputed OT reported, Michael Nelson and Thomas Piper, Engine Delegate Brian Shilts, Educational Director J. Ross, Deck but steam table needs repair. Crew Martinez. Continued on page 29 Steward Delegate Frank Martin. Delegate Rick Burgess, Engiije noted Seafarers LOGs received and En Route to Oakland 1;-, \r;:%-'.:fi:.i : •"-J In the Engine Room "Jf- " •' • ii. I J; ' n-ii •• I : • lU ... . ''••-.f • I •/ ; •(/ -7. '-f : y f'- /:- �. v-' ."'• 4^; y-A. • ••;•' .v ••, '!A ' • /. •*' -• •'" •• ' • '• "• • '• •'i il". •• •" .1 DECEMBER 1993 DEEP SEA CHARLESBALLARD Pensioner Charles Bal­ lard, 83, passed away AprillS. Bom in Texas, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards (MCS) in 1940 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the Atlantic, Guif, Lakes and Inland Waters District (AGLIWD). His first ship was the SS Lurline, a Matson vessel. Brother Ballard was an instructor at the MCS training school in Santa Rosa, Calif, from I960 until his retirement in 1976. SAM BLACK Pensioner Sam Black, 71, died Oc­ tober 14. A native of Oregon, he joined the Seafarers in 1967 in the port of Seat­ tle. Brother Black sailed as a QMED. He upgraded frequently at the Lundeberg School. Brother Black served in the U.S. Navy from 1941 to 1945. He began receiving his pension in January 1983. MARGARITO BORJA Pensioner Margarito Borja, 81, passed away September 27. Bom in Cuba, he joined the SIU in 1951 in the port of San Francisco. Brother Boija sailed in the engine department. He retired in September 1977. JAMES BRADY James Brady, 35, died Sep­ tember 25. A Philadelphia native, he joined the Seafarers after graduat­ ing from the trainee pro­ gram at the Lundeberg School in 1975. Brother Brady sailed in the deck department. He retumed to Piney Point in 1985 to upgrade to AB. The last ship on which he sailed was the Wiltiam B. Baugh, a Maersk vessel. RICARDO CRUZ Ricardo Craz, 19, passed away October 2. Bora in New York, he joined the SIU in 1992 in Piney Point, Md. after success­ fully completing the trainee pro­ -am. Brother Cmz sailed as a deck, engine, utility. His last ship was the Lawrence H. Gianella, an Ocean Ships Inc. vessel. JOHNCASSroV John Cassidy, 65, died July 31. A native of Scotland, he joined the union in 1980 in the port of Nor­ folk, Va. Brother Cassidy sailed as a QMED. He upgraded frequently at the Paul Hall Center. He last SEAFARERS LOG sailed aboard a Waterman Steam­ ship vessel. HARRY DEAN Pensioner Harry Dean, 84, passed away Septem­ ber 16, A Texas native, he joined the Seafarers in 1944 in the port of New York. He sailed as a chief cook. Brother Dean retired in Febmary 1973. PATRICK DORRIAN SR. Pensioner Patrick Dorrian Sr., 65, died October 16. He joined the Seafarers in 1950 in his native Philadelphia. Brother Dorrian sailed as a QMED until 1972 when he began sailing inland. He worked in the deck department aboard In­ terstate Oil and Transport vessels until his retirement in 1989. Brother Dorrian upgraded frequently at the Lundeberg School. He served in the U.S. Army from 1946 to 1947. Brother Dorrian began receiving his pension in December 1989. EVIEDOUGET Pensioner Evie Douget, 65, passed away October 15. A native of Louisiana, he joined the SIU in 1959 in the port of Lake Charles, La. He sailed in the deck depart­ ment. Brother Douget served in the U.S. Navy from 1947 to 1948. He retired in December 1976. FREDERICK DUKES Frederick Dukes, 46, died October 19 of brain cancer. A Minnesota na­ tive, he joined the Seafarers in 1967 in the port of New York. Brother Dukes sailed as a QMED. His last ship was the American Heritage, an Apex Marine vessel. Services were held on October 22 in Jacksonville, Fla. at Holmes-Glover-Solomon Funeral Home with interment at Edgewood Cemetary. Seafarers served as honorary pallbearers. EDDIE EDWARDS Eddie Ed­ wards, 53, passed away September 19. Bom in North Carolina, he joined the union in 1986 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Brother Edwards sailed as a chief steward. He last sailed aboard the MV Sea Fox. Brother Edwards served in the U.S. Army from 1962 to 1982. RALPH GOWAN Pensioner Ralph Gowan, 75, died October 18. A South Carolina na­ tive, he joined the SIU in 1958 in the port of Bal­ timore. Brother Gowan sailed in the engine department. He retired • September 1984. in GARY GROSS Gary Gross, 52, passed away Sep­ tember 25. Bom in Califomia, he joined the Seafarers in 1972 in the port of San Francisco. Brother Gross sailed as an assistant cook. He upgraded at the Lundeberg School in 1976. JOHN HUNT Pensioner John Hunt, 74, died Oc­ tober 11. A native of Greenville, S.C.,he joined the . union in 1955 in the port of Baltimore. Brother Hunt sailed in the steward department. He served in the U.S. Army from 1944 to 1945. Brother Hunt began receiv­ ing his pension in October 1981. THOMAS JEFFERSON Thomas Jef­ ferson, 47, passed away October 6. Bom in Florida, he joined fte SIU in 1973 in the port of Jacksonville, Fla. Brother Jefferson sailed in the deck department. He upgraded fre­ quently at Piney Point. Brother • Jefferson's last ship was ihc Am­ bassador. ANTON KULA Pensioner Anton Kula, 78, died Sep­ tember 24. A native of Es­ tonia, he joined the Seafarers in 1943 in the port of New York. Brother Kula sailed in the deck department. He retired in April 1971. EDWARD LIGON Pensioner Ed­ ward Ligon, 78, passed away Septem­ ber 29. Bom in Union Springs, Ala.; he joined the union in the port of Mobile, Ala. in 1954. Brother Ligon sailed as a chief cook. He began receiving his pension in March 1983. NANCY MANNI Baltimore. He sailed as a QMED. Brother Neel upgraded at the Lun­ deberg School in 1974. He retired in April 1981. NILS RICHARDSON Pensioner Nils Richardson, 93, died Oc­ tober 11. A native of Fredrikstad, Norway, he joined the union as a charter member in 1938. He sailed as an AB and bosun. Brother Richardson also was a member of the ISU in 1928 and the National Sailors and Firemans Union of Great Britain and Ireland from 1917 to 1920. Brother Richardson wrote poetry and contributed some of his writings to the LOG over the years. He retired in September 1975. ROLAND RICHARDSON Pensioner Roland Richardson, 67, passed away October 19. Bom in Charleston, W.Va., he joined the SIU in 1960 in the port of Baltimore. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Richardson served in the U.S. Navy from 1943 to 1947. He began receiving his pension in August 1992. MALCOLM STEVENS Pensioner Malcolm Stevens, 71, died October 16. He joined the Seafarers in 1951 in his 'native Galves­ ton, Texas. Brother Stevens sailed in the deck depart­ ment. He served in the U.S. Coast Guard from 1943 to 1945. Brother Stevens retired in May 1976. WALCY THOMAS Pensioner Walcy Thomas, 74, passed away October 3. Bom in Vir­ ginia, he joined the union in 1956 in the port of Baltimore. Brother Thomas sailed in the steward department. He began receiving his pension in May 1977. Nancy Manni, 33, passed away August 30. A native of Detroit, she joined the Seafarers in 1987 in the port of Honolulu. Sister Manni last sailed as a chief cook aboard the Mayaguez, a Puer­ to Rico Marine vessel. She upgraded frequently at the Lun­ deberg School. MARSHALL TOWNSEND Pensioner Marshall Townsend, 79, died Oc­ tober 8. He joined the SIU in 1944 in his native New York. Brother Townsend sailed as a bosun. He retired in January 1976. JERRELLNEEL JIMMIEWEED Pensioner Jerrell Neel, 67, died Septem­ ber 21. A na­ tive of • Abilene, Texas, he joined the SIU in 1944 in the port of Jimmie Weed, 56, passed away October 22 aboard the Sea-Land Tacoma of a heart attack. Bom in Pueblo, Colo., 27 he joined the Seafarers in 1969 in the port of San Francisco. Brother We^ completed the steward rebertification program at the Paul Hall Center in 1992. His body was cremated and his ashes spread at sea. INLAND FRANK CHAMBLESS Frank Chambless, 36, died October 8. A Texas native,' he joined the union in 1975 in Houston. Boatman Chambless sailed in the deck department. HARRY ISENHART Pensioner Harry Isenhart, 68, passed away October 11. A native of Gassaway, W.Va., he joined the Seafarers in 1947 in the port of Philadelphia. Boatman Isenhart sailed in the steward department. He began receiving his pension in November 1983. GROVER SMITH Pensioner Grover Smith, 68, died October 21. Bom in Mississippi, he joined the SIU in 1967 in the port of St. Louis. Boatman Smith sailed as a lead deckhand. He retired in January 1987. JAMES TITUS SR. Pensioner James Titus Sr., 70, passed away September 16. A native of Texas, he joined the union in 1963 in the port of Port Arthur, Texas. Boatman Titus sailed as both a tankerman and deckhand. He served in the U.S. Army from 1943 to 1946. Boatman Titus began receiving his pension in August 1982. ROBERT TRAHAN Pensioner Robert Trahan, 50, died October 16. Bom in Nederland, Texas, he joined the Seafarers in 1975 in the port of Port Arthur, Texas. Boatman Trahan sailed in the deck department. He retired in May 1993. DELL WHITEHEAD Pensioner Dell Whitehead, 85, passed away Septem­ ber 27. A na­ tive of Panama City, Fla., he joined the SIU in 1952 in the port of Houston. Boat^ man Whitehead sailed as an AB. He last sailed aboard G&H Towing vessels. Boatman Whitehead began receiving his pension in April 1973. ii&, ... . . GREAT LAKES PETER RUDESKI Pensioner Peter Rudeski, 79, died September 9. Bom in Plymouth, Pa., he joined the union in 1960 in the port of Detroit. Brother Rudeski sailed in the engine department. He retired in August 1980. /: /• . �...»{* Mi •^.;- 28 DECEMBER 1993 SEAFAA8E8S LOG SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR MCS SUPPLEMENTARY PENSION PLAN This is a summary of the annual report of the MCS Supplementary Pension Plan BIN 51-6097856 for the year ended December 31, 1992. The annual report has been filed with the Internal Revenue Service, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, (ERISA). s>:. f- ••••• BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENT Benefits under the plan are provided by the Trust. Plan expenses were $1,516,019. These expenses included $247^991 in administrative expenses, and $1,268,028 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 1,897 persons were participants in or beneficiaries of the plan at the end of the plan year, although not all of these persons had yet earned the right to receive benefits. The value of plan assets after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $11,903,392 as of December 31,1992, compared to $12,415,692 as of January 1,1992. During the plan year, the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $512,300. This decrease includes unrealized appreciation in the value of the plan assets; that is, the difference between the current value of assets at the beginning of the year plus the cost of any assets acquired during the year less the current value of assets at the end of the year. The plan had total income of $1,003,719 including employer contributions of $251,413, gain of $32,578 from the sale of assets, earnings from investments of $719,344 and other income of $384. ilMi: • /'. MINIMUM FUNDING STANDARDS An actuary's statement shows that enough money was contributed to the plan to keep it funded in accordance with the minimum funding standards of ERISA. , YOUR RIGHTS TO ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Your have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The iteins listed below are included in that report; 1. An accountant's report. 2. Assets held for investment. 3. Actuarial information regarding the funding of the plan, 4. Service provider and trustee information. 5. Reportable transactions. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of Mr. Nicholas J. Marrone who is the plan administrator, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746, (301) 899-0675. The charge to cover copying costs wiU be $3.40 for the full aimual report, or $.10 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at lio charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. Tire charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the ctmying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan at 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, DC, or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: Public Disclosure Room, N4677, Pension and Welfare Benefit Programs, Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20216. miM. SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION In accordance with the Department of Labor Regulations, the net realized gain of $32,578, as shown above, is compute on the "market-to-niarket basis"— the difference between the sales price and the maricet value of an asset as of Januaiy 1,1992; or if the asset was both acquired and disposed of within the plan year, it is the difference between the purchase and sales price. Included in the net appreciation (depreciation) in fair market value of investments of $(48,932) as shown on the itoancial statements is $5^4,202 of net realized gain which is the difference between the sales price and the original cost of the assets. .v.:3^ ff-i Inquiring Seafarer '•'M-.y'- . fcjf'- );••-- '::i ••'CM.'''"'. ;:,:'• I . . • . Joe Sweeney, Retired Deck­ hand—My first ship was the Bienville, a C-4 Waterman Steamship ves­ sel. We were transporting U.S. troops from the 28th Army Division to France. We left from New York and went to Halifax, Nova Scotia and delivered the troops from there. We were the flagship in an all military convoy of 125 ships. In front of the Bienville was the bat­ tleship Texas. Midway over in the north Atlantic the ship's alarm sounded and we were all called to the guns and lifeboats. A torpedo went in between the Texas and the Bienville, completely missing both. Looking astern, the corvettes fell back and the destroyer escorts formed a circle and dropped depth charges which brought BobDurfor, the submarine to the surface. We sank OS—I it immediately. My brother-in-law graduated from saw the action from a tanker and said Piney Point in he was amazed. "Axis Sally" (Nazi October 1992 radio propagandist) claimed all 125 and my first vessels in our convoy sank when in ship was the fact not even one sank. We got the an­ Constitution on nouncement when we were still American aboard and laughed like crazy. Hawaii Thomas Mar­ Cruises. My first job aboard the Constitution was tinez, QMED— as watchstander where I learned a lot. My first ship , I really enjoyed my time aboard the was the SS Delship and I got to travel around Hawaii mar in 1945 during my time off. from Philadel­ phia to Romania. That Benjamin wa^a good Stanley, crew. We went Fireman, from New Watertender— York to Gibraltar to Turkey and final­ My first ship ly to Romania. It was on our way over was the Gulf Trader m 1990. we heard the news that the Germans had surrendered. Back then I was sail­ It was a steam ing as a steward utility and I sailed turbine ship which was very from 1945 to 1968 when I retired. I old and needed came back in 1984 because I missed the sea and couldn't stay away. lots of repair. This was during the Gulf war anS we went from Jackson­ Nicholas Con­ ville to Houston to New Jersey and way, AB—My then over to Saudi Arabia carrying first ship was supplies to the troops. I have to say the tug Sentry, that I was scared because I really a Crowley tug, didn't know what to expect... 1 didn't and I sailed know the cargo or our true destina­ from Lake tion. On top of all of tliis I got horrib­ Charles, La. to Puerto Rico ly sea sick. I truly thought I would and Haiti. On never sail again after that first time the way back but I adjusted just fine and sailing is mostly fun for me now. we assisted another tug which was Question: What was your first ship, and what do you rememher about it? (Asked of SIU members in the Philadelphia hall.) Jim Anderson, AB—My first SIU boat came just last May. The Delawhale—a River Bus Inc. ferry that car­ ries passengers from Penns Landing, here in Philadelphia, over to Camden, New Jersey. I retired after 20 years in the Navy only to find myself missing the sea, so I joined the Seafarers atjd 1 am meeting all types of people. I missed sailing. There is a certain calling that the sea has. returning from Africa. As a sign of gratitude, the captain and crew aboard the tug gave us a variety of unique souvenirs that they had picked up while in Africa. I was amazed to find how poor Haiti was. The children fol­ lowed us everywhere hoping that we'd give them money or a bite to eat. Stanley Andruionis, AB—My first ship was aboard the SL Venture in 1980. We sailed all over Europe as well as to Spain and the U.S. Gulf. I was a new Piney Point graduate and leamed a lot, putting my knowledge to practice with hands-on experience. We encountered some pretty rough storms and that is when all fhe safety techniques that I leamed at the Lundeberg School paid off. All in all it was a fun first voyage. MikeMcNally, QMED—I graduated from Piney Point in 1975 and my first ship was the Transeastem of Hudson Water­ ways. I began that first voyage in the steward depart­ ment until the wiper on board broke his leg and went home. I transferred over and became the wiper, and this was my first official introduction to the engine department. Since then I have worked my way up by upgrading at Piney Point. It really is Ae way to go, and I recommend upgrading to all SIU members. Don't waste any time. Michael Endres, 2nd Cook/Baker— My first ship was the Robin Hood. We were coming back from South Africa and hit a really bad storm and had'to slow the vessel. The equipment in the engineroom was flying around because die seas were so rough. I sure didn't think too much of sailing, and I swore that I would never ever make another trip. That was in 1951. Know Your Rights PA YMENT OF MONIES. No FINANCIAL REPORTS. The monies are to be paid to anyone in any constitution of the SIU Atlantic official capacity in the SIU unless an Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters Dis official union receipt is given for trict makes specific provision for same. Under no circumstances safeguarding the membership' should any member pay any money money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailec for any reason unless he is given such audit by certified public account­ receipt. In the event anyone attempts ants every year, which is to be sub to require any such payment be made mitted to the membership by the without supplying a receipt, or if a secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance member is required to m^e a pay­ committee of rank-and-file mem­ ment and is given an official receipt, bers, elects by the membership, but feels that, he or she ,should not each year examines the finances ol have been required tomake such pay­ the union and reports fully their find­ ment, this should immediately be ings and recommendations. Mem­ reported to union headquarters. bers of this committee may make CONSTITUTIONAL dissenting reports, specific recom­ RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. mendations and separate fmdings. Copies of the SIU constitution are TRUST FUNDS. All trust available in all union haUs. AH mem­ funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, bers should obtain copiesof this con­ Lakes and Inland Waters District stitution so as to familiarize are administered in accordance themselves with its contents. Any with the provisions of various trust time a member feels any other memfund agreements. All these agree­ Iser or officer is attempting todeprive ments specify that the trustees in him or her of any constitutional right charge of these funds shall equally or obligation by any methods, such as consist of union and management dealing with charges, trials, etc., as representatives and their alternates. well as all other details, the member All expenditures and disburse­ so affected should immediately ments of trust funds are made only notify headquarters. upon approval by a majority of the EQUAL RIGHTS. All mem­ trustees. All trust fund financial bers are guaranteed equal rights in records are available at the head­ employment and as members of the quarters of the various trust funds. SIU. These rights are clearly set SHIPPING RIGHTS. A forth in the SIU constitution and in member's shipping rights and the contracts which the union has seniority are protected exclusively negotiated with the employers. by contracts between the union and Consequently, no member may be the employers. Members should get discriminated against because of to know their shipping rights. race, creed, color, sex, national or Copies of these contracts are posted geographic origin. If any member and available in all union haUs. If feels that he or she is denied the members believe there have been equal rights to which he or she is violations of their shipping or entitled, the member should notify seniority rights as contained in the union headquarters. contracts between the union and the SEAFARERS POLITICAL employers, they should notify the ACTIVITY DONATION — Seafarers Appeals Board by cer­ SPAD. SPAD is a separate tified mail, return receipt requested. segregated fund. Its proceeds aire The proper address for this is: • used to further its objects and pur­ Augustin Tellez, Chairman poses including, but not limited to, Seafarers Appeals Board furthering the poUtical, social and 5201 Auth Way economic interests of maritime Camp Springs, MD. 20746 Full copies of contracts as refened workers,, the preservation and fur­ to are available to members at all thering of the American merchant times, either by writing directly to the marine with improved employment union or to the Seafarers Appeals opportunities fot seamen and boat­ men and the advancement of trade Board. union concepts. In connection with CONTRACTS. Copies of all such objects, SPAD supports and SIU contracts are available in all SIU contributes to political candidates halls. These contracts specify the for elective office. All contribu­ wages and conditions under which an tions are voluntary. No contribu­ SIU member woilcs and lives aboard tion may be solicited or received a ship or boat. Members should know )ecause of force, job discrimina­ their contract rights, as well as their tion, financial reprisal, or threat of obligations, such as filing for over­ such conduct, or as a condition of time (OT) on the proper sheets and in membership in the union or of the proper manner, tf, at any time, a employment. If a contribution is member believes that an SIU patrol­ made by reason of the above imman or other union official fails to noper conduct, the member should protect their contractual rights notify the Seafarers International properly, he or she should contact the Jnion or SPAD by certified mail nearest SIU port agent. within 30 days of the contribution EDITORIAL POLICY — or investigation and appropriate THE SEAFARERS LOG. The action and refund, if involuntary. Seafarers LOG traditionally has A member should support SPAD refrained from publishing any ar­ to protect and further his or her ticle serving the political purposes economic, political and social in­ of any individual in the union, of- terests, and American trade union icer or member. It also has concepts. refrained from publishing articles If at any time a member feels deemed harmful to the union or its that any of the above rights have collective membership. This estab)een violated, or that he or she has ished policy has been reaffirmed aeen denied the constitutional right jy membership action at the Sep­ of access to union records or infor­ tember 1960 meetings in all con­ mation, the member should imme­ stitutional ports. The diately notify SIU President responsibility for Seafarers LOG Michael Sacco at headquarters by jolicy is vested in an editorial certified mail, return receipt rejoard which consists of the ex­ uested. The address is: ecutive board of the union. The Michael Sacco, President executive board may delegate, Seafarers International Union rom among its ranks, one in­ 5201 Auth Way dividual to carry out this respon­ Camp Springs, MD 20746. sibility. i"- '-,yj �•.'V- . '-V- DECEMBER 1993 Ships Digest Continued from page 26 crew for efforts in rescuing six Cubans at sea. (Reported in Novem­ ber issue of 5ea/arerj LOG.) L/BEffrVSrflnCLiberty M• Maritime), October 3—Chairman John Neff, Secretary Dave Alexander, Educational Director J. Hipolito, Deck Delegate Christie Johnson, Engine Delegate V. Caslido. Steward Delegate Juan Gon­ zales. Chairman announced payoff in New Orleans. Secretary thanked crewmembers for keeping ship clean and orderly and reminded crew to deposit linen in laundry sacks when signing off. Educational director reminded crew about safety gear for next voyage to Russia. Treasurer reported $650 in ship's fund and the purchase of new movies and head cleaner for VCR in next port. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew reported latest Seafarers LOG not received and asked contracts depart­ ment for information concerning new contract. Crewmembers discussed ship's smoking policy and sent holiday wishes to all SIU members and their families. They also gave special vote of thanks to Chief Cook Gonzales, Chief Steward Alexander and GSU Julian Mendoza. OMI LEADER (OMl Corp.) Oc­ tober 3—Chairman Patrick Rankin, Secretary Jose Rivera, Educational Director Alvin Markowitz, Deck Delegate Charles Foley, Engine Delegate Rudolph Lopez, Steward Delegate Stanley Krystosiak. Chair­ man announced payoff in Boston and reported smooth sailing. Secretary reminded crewmembers to report all safety problems. Educational director urged members to upgrade and better their skills at Piney Point. Disputed OT reported by deck and engine delegates. No beefs or disputed OT reported by steward delegate. Crew stated new dryer needed for crew laundry and gave vote of thanks to jgalley gang. Next port: New Haven, Conn. OMI SACRAMENTOiOMl Corp.), October 3—Chairman Ray Gorju, Secretary Rudy Deboissiere, Educa­ tional Director John Trent, Deck Delegate Kenneth Gilson, Engine Delegate Alan Nelson, Steward Delegate Norman Taylor. Crew dis­ cussed new contract. Chairman reminded crewmembers to clean rooms and to leave keys on desk and laundry bags with dirty linen in pas­ sageways. He thanked everyone for a good trip. Treasurer reported $298 in ship's fund. Steward delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck or en­ gine delegates. Crew gave special vote of thanks to Bosun Gorju and deck and engine departments for jobs well done. They also thanked Chief Steward Deboissiere and Chief Cook Taylor for excellent feeding and cap­ tain for smooth sailing and great trip. Next port: Port Arthur, Texas. OMI WILLAMETTE (OMI Corp.), October 10—Chairman Louis Hachey, Secretary R. Scotf Sr., Educational Director F. Vogler, En­ gine Delegate Olie Webber, Steward Delegate Michael Kozak. Chairman informed members of update on con­ SEAFARERS LOG tract negotiations. He thanked entire crew for great job and keeping ship clean. He gave special thanks to steward department for great chow and clean mess rooms. He announced payoff in Houston. Educational direc­ tor urged members to upgrade at Lundeberg School whenever possible. No beefs Or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked Seafarers LOG for fine job. OVERSEAS AL/CE (Maritime Overseas), October 3—Chairman Jerry Bass, Secretary Paul Stuhblefield. Educational Director Samuel Stark, Engine Delegate James Beatly. Chairman announced ship loading for Boston. Secretary reminded crewmembers to supply" clean linen for reliefs when signing off. He reported too much milk being opened in refrigerator and reminded crewmembers to cover up night lunch when finished. Educational director urged members to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer stated $110 in ship's fund. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Crew reported Seafarers LOGs received. Chairman announced captain ordered new cur­ tains and mattresses for crewmem­ bers. He also reminded crewmembers to report repairs needed. Crew reported nice trip to West Coast but noted good to be back on East Coast. Chairman said new filters ordered for crew dryers. Captain gave special vote of thanks to steward department. Next port: Boston. SEA-LAND NAVIGATOR (SeaLand Service), October 3—Chairman Steven Copeland, Secretary Ceasar Blanco, Educational Director Joseph Callaghan, Deck Delegate Eugenio Oya, Engine Delegate Cliff Akers, Steward Delegate Virgilio Hoff­ mann. Chairman reminded crew­ members to always lock rooms in port. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew said sailing was smooth and quiet. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. SEA-LAND ACHIEVER (Sea-Land Service), October 5—Chairman Paul Lewis, Secretary A. Robinson, Educational Director A. Quinn. Secretary reminded members to go to Piney Point and upgrade. He reported crew very happy with medical chan­ ges for dependents in new contract. Educational director thanked con­ tracts department and SIU President Michael Sacco for increase in benefits for pensioners. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman gave vote of thanks to all SIU crewmem­ bers for job well done and wished AB Robert Frankel a happy retire­ ment. Next port: Elizabeth, N.J. SEA-LAND EXPRESS(Sea-Land Service), October 2—Chairman D. Seagle, Secretary M. Meany, Educa-tional Director A. Bell, Deck Delegate J.R. Mc Daniel, Engine Delegate G. Oghaghehrial, Steward Delegate Fadel Abdulla. Education­ al director urged members to upgrade at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. SEA-LAND PERFORMANCE (Sea-Land Service), October 17— Chairman Sonny Pinkham, Secretary Jonny Cruz, Educational Director Dan Johnson, Deck Delegate Emmanuel Halkias, En­ gine Delegate Juan Toro, Steward Delegate James O'Reilly. Chairman discussed new contract with crew- The Smell of Sizzling Steaks Enjoying a cookout on the LNG Gemini are Kris Hopkins, Chief Cook John Bukowsky and GSU Mike Rogers. members and reminded them to get as much training at Lurideberg School as possible. Secretary urged members to get out to vote for people who can help maritime industry and reminded them to donate to SPAD. He urged everyone to keep pressure on to keep U.S. ships flying the U.S. flag. Educational director reminded crew a safe ship is a happy ship and first consideration always should be safety. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crewmembers stated Seafarers LOGs received and read. Crew gave steward department vote of thanks for keeping ship well fed and clean. They gave Chief Cook Robert Outlaw a special retirement cake and wished him well. Crew reported Brother Outlaw is on his last ship after 40 years of sailing and en­ tire crew will miss him. Next port: Boston. SEA-LAND PRODUCER (SeaLand Service), October 3—Chairman Jack Edwards, Secretary Donna Jean demons. Educational Director Jim Smitko, Deck Delegate Larry Thompson, Engine Delegate Steve Cunningham, Steward Delegate Rowell Sim. Bosun reported es­ timated time of arrival in Long Beach,Calif. with payoff in port. Treasurer reported $350 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crewmembers stated Seafarers LOGs received. Chairman outlined smoking areas on ship and asked members not to smoke during meals. Crewmembers also discussed new contract. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang for barbecue on deck. Next port: Oakland, Calif. DSNS SEAUFT ANTARCTIC (IMC), October 12—Chairman Ray Shinpoch, Secretary Ernest Dumont, Educational Director Steve Hansford, Deck Delegate Ron Rizzuto. Steward Delegate Don Dwyer. Chairman announced next ports San Diego, Calif., Femdale, Wash, and Anchorage, Alaska. Educational director urged members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Crew requested chairs in crew lounge be reupholstered and new VCR be pur­ chased. Crew also reported repairs needed for refrigerator and re­ quested foul weather gear for deck department. Next port: Ft. Molate, Calif. USNS SILAS BENT (Bay Ship Management), October 18—Chair­ man Robert Vazquez, Secretary B: Henderson, Educational Director R. Larsen, Deck Delegate Andre Ber­ nard, Engine delegate Richard Lar­ sen, Steward Delegate Keith Nixon. Chairman discussed new contract and war zone bonus with crewmembers. Crew also discussed Sea-Land and APL's efforts to go foreign. Secretary reported store rooms and refrigerators clean and orderly. Educational director reminded crew­ members to upgrade at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman announced ship passed last quality assurance inspection and reported next inspection in Singapore in December. Crewmembers dis­ cussed possible Halloween party at Seamen's Club in Dubai and Christmas party in Singapore. They also talked about having volunteer crewmember responsible for check­ ing out movies in video library. Chairman reminded crewmembers to keep exercise room clean and equipment wiped down. Next port: Dubai. 29 WESTWARD VE/Vrt/BE (Interocean Management), October &— Chairman M.W. Kadderiy, Secretary R.B. Sanderson, Educa­ tional Director C.W. Cunningham, Deck Delegate Thomas Vain Sr., En- • Ready for a Cookout , ' Getting ready for the barbecue aboard the LNG Gemini are (from left) Chief Cook John Bukowsky and GSUs Bull Rogers and Prince Guzman. gine Delegate Alberto Aguiar, Steward Delegate Hussain Bubaker. Chairman announced contract ratified but crew awaiting copies of final con­ tract agreement. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade at Lundeberg School. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Crew reported everyone happy. Secretary reminded crewmembers to keep crew lounge clean. Chairman and crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang for job well done. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. Overseas Arctic Galley Gang Serves Top-Notch Meals Everyday is a holiday aboard the Overseas Arctic when meal time rolls around. The galley gang, led by Recertified Steward Herbert M. Davis, makes sure the crew on the tanker is well fed. "I enjoy my job and working with my fellow crewrhembers," Davis, whose nickname aboard ship is "Big Daddy Cane," wrote to the Seafarers LOG. "I want to make sure meals are a )leasant time that everyone ooks forward to when they take a break from working." In the letter, Davis praised his fellow steward department members—Chief Cook James Willey and Steward Assistant Arnuifo Lacayo—for all their hard work. "None of this could happen without them," noted the steward/baker. Davis included a sample menu with the photographs that accompany this story. Among the entrees being served were baked lasagna, fried chicken and boiled fresh shrimp. Side plates included steamei^ asparagus spears, buttered com and stewed red beans. The gal­ ley gang loaded the salad bar Amulfo Lacayo (left) shows off his birthday cake with helpfrom fellow galley gang member, (;hief Cook James Willey. = with all kinds of fresh vegetables rolls, crewmembers also could as well as deviled eggs, cole slaw choose from cheese biscuits and com bread. and potato salad. The OverseasArctic, which is \^at meal would be com­ plete without desert and bread? operated by Maritime Overseas The menu contained eclairs, Corporation, sails coastwise. Die pecan pie and homemade 63,(300 deadweight ton vessel chocolate cake. Besides dinner was builtin 1971. Reaching for dessert is AB Eddie ABs Thurman "Scotty** Bonds (left) and Dave Somer discover the Ayyazian from the port of Norfolk. Overseas Arctic's galley full of good food for dinner. ' v't-;.' • �-r.» •>...-- 30 DECEMBER 1993 SEAFARERS LOG i..m Lundebera School Graduating Classes Upgraders Lifeboat—Upgrading graduates of the September 1elifeboat class are (from left, kneeling) Ben Cusic (instructor), Francisco Aral, Victor E. Serrano, Oscar Angeles, Thomas Milovich, (second row) Trainee Lifeboat Glass 516—Graduating from trainee lifeboat class 516 are (from left, kneeling) Eddie Len, Hardine C^ricey Jr., Robin Williams, Charles Windesheim, Kelvin Burrell, Newman Larce, Carl Edwards, Ryan Zanca, Robert Parker, Michael Daniel, Ben Cusic Joail Riley and Paula Kaleikini. (instructor), (second row) Dennis Joseph Walker Jr., Richard Lares, Isom Ingram, Eric Easter, Joseph Moricone, John Joe Quinter^William Boulier, Michael Mautner II, Steve Cervantes Jr., (third row) Vernon Morris, Michael Relaford, Gary Croft, David Wayne Ellis, Matthew Johnson, Eric Gogue and Anthony Laza. Abie Bodied Seaman—Certificates of completion were received by the October 20 class of upgraders. They are (from left, kneeling) Tom Gilland (instructor), Stacey Twiford, George Vitello, Robert Hurysz, (second row) Michael Hall, Michael Plante, Scott Sweeney, Sandra Deeter-McBride, Christopher Quall, Tim Kacer, (third row) Carl Parker, Arthur Purdy Jr., Ramend Prasad, Omar Muhammad, Denis Picciuolo and Robert Williams. QMED--Upgrading members of the engine department completing the QMED course are (kneeling, from left) Sean Nolan, Edmond Bridges, Brian Bates, Jimmie Robles, Scott Sevret, (second row) Benjamin O'Donnell, Stanley Golden, William Pinkham, Albert McKinney, Robert Closson, Robert Whitaker, Thomas Diviny Jr. and Jiirgen Gottschlich. Not pictured is Joseph Dizengoff. ^ ^ ^ Marine Electrical Maintenance II—The October 7 graduates of the marine electrical maintenance II course are (kneeling, from left) Mark Dumas, William Mogg, (second row) Eric Malzkuhn (instructor), Lani Halderman and Miguel Rivera. Radar—Renewing their radar endorsements on September 24 are (front row, from left) Walter Popperwill, Robert Wood, Michael Spranza, Robert Adams, Miles Ireland, James Dixon, Jim Kruger, (second row) Sidney Skinner, Melbourne Smith, Jim Brown (instructor), Allen Shaw, Paula Woodside, Paul Van Hollebeke and Olgierd Becker, , /RV,' . -p Refrigeration Maintenance—Graduating members of the refrigeration course are (seated, from left) Eric Sutton, Victor Mull, James DeMouy II, Michael Martykan, Joseph Arnold, Dennis Riley, (second row) Larry Rose, David St. Onge, Lawrence Craig, Paul Lightfoot, Larry Pittman, Robert Rice Jr., Gary Frazler, John Wiegman (instmctor), Harry Kinsman and Robert McDonald. Shiphandling—^Working their way up the deck department ratings are (first roWi from left) Michael Spranza, Mark Gray, Henry Rice, Robert Wood, Casey Taylor (instructor), Robert Adams, (second row) Alan Less, Sidney Skinner, Russ Hudson, Melbourne Smith, Jack Green and Robert Batson. �DECmBER 1993 SEAFAKERS LOG *J :"'t-?rvS^" LUHDEBBtG samm. Recertiflcation Programs 1994WCmUHNG OMRSE SPHCDULE Course : > Bosun Recertification Steward Recertlfiation ''""u® for classes beginning between January and PS tSf ^ ^ f " Hatty Liindeberg School of Seamanship located at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md All progtams are geared to tmprove job skiUs of Seafaiers and to promote the Amerie™ m^time industiy. r"®y to reflect the needs of the membership, the mantime industry and—m times of conflict-^the nation's security. Check-InDate Comnletion Date March 28 January 31 '^u*'se Assistant Cook, Cook and Baker Course Check-In Date Completion bate Able Seaman Januai728 March II . May 20 JUIY x Julyl All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. •' A- ' '' • ' ' •, "• ' ' Radar Certification January 14 March 11 MayO January 07 February 11 March 4 April 29 May 20 January 4 March 25 Aprill9 January 18 April II January 31 April 25 February 14 May 9 r; ^ . Celestial Navigation [ HiirdMate 14iiiited License, Parti - Limited License, Part 2 Lindt^ Uicense, Part i Chief Cook,Chief Steward Check-In Date February 11 March 11 January 3 January14 Oil Spill Prevention and Cdhtainment Lifeboatman Jten February 25 March 25 April 22 Basic/Advanced Fire Ftehting Jarii«iry21 March 11 May 6 Inland Basic/Advanced Fire Figteting^ January 17 ' Sealift Operations & Maintenance ri-.c January 4 February 21 March 21 May 9 Check-In Date Completion Date All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. QMED-Any Rating January 4 Marcb25 Fireman/Watertender and Oiler January 4 February 11 May 9 June 17 Diesel Engine Technology February 21 March 18 Refrigeration MainL & Operations January 4 February 11 March 21 April 29 • ' • '3®! Welding January 4 January 28 1 March 28 April 22 .r » >i, j Pumproom Main!& Operations May 2 June 10 Marine Electrical Maintenance February 28 April 22 Refrig. Containers-Advanced May 2 June 10 Basic Electrouics January 4 January 28 Marine Electroiii^ Technician I January 31 Febriiary25 ••V'VT Mteiite Electem^ February 28 March 25 • "'.'•'.•V 1 .1 1993-94MimmwatkmSchediOe Completion Date Februaiy 18 March 18 January 14 January 28 February 11 March 11 The following courses are available through the Seafarers Harry Luiideberg School. Please contact the admissions offlce for enrollment information. Course Check-In Date Completion DMe GED Preparation 12 weeks - open-ended admisslfm Adult Basic Education (ABfii) 6 Weeks - opai-ended admission Englirii as a Second Lanig^mge (ESL) 6 weeks - open-ended admission Developmental Stadtes January 10 January 14 January 17 January 21 wmm March7 Marikll March 14 Aterchik Mnrch21 Mai^25 V- Fel^aiy4 March25 May20 January 22 January 28 March 18 April 15 June 3 tor 1994 General Education Course (Evening Clases Only) Check-InDate Comidetionbate January 10 March4 V pivjMPiJirciimiCAiiiiiv Name (Last) Address Date of Birth (First) (Middle) (Street) (Qty) All open-ended (contact admissions office for starting dates) All open-ended (contact admissions office for starting dates) railiiiglSoffrses January 28 March 25 May 20 January 14 February 18 March 11 May 6 May 27 February II May 6 : August 12 January 28 April 22 February 11 May 6 February 25 May 20 Aprils MtoyO i Check-InDate Comnietinn Course Sii^SpeekHy Courses Course May 2 AforchT Steward Upgrading Courses Deck Upgrading Courses teriidge Management (Shiphandling) 31 (State) Deep Sea Member• (Z^Code) Lakes Member• Monlh/Day/Year .Telephone _j_ _L (Area Code) Inland Waters Member• Pacific • If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security #. . Book #. . Department Seniority ' U.S. Citizen: CHYes D No Home Port. Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held • Yes Are you a graduate of the SHLSS trainee program? If yes, which program: from to. Last grade of school completed • • Yes Have you attended any SHLSS upgrading courses? If yes, course(s) taken. Have you taken any SHLSS Sealift Operations courses? GYes If yes, how many weeks have you completed?. DO you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? • Yes GNO Firefighting: G Yes GNO CPR:QYe^ Date available for training Primary language spoken mpx ' / .• • : / L With this application COPIES of yourdischarges must be submitted showing sufficient time to qualify yourself for the course(s) requested. You also nrnst submit a COPY of each of the following: the first page of your union book indicating your department seniority, your clinic card and the front and back of your Lundeberg School identification card listing the course(s)you have taken and completed. The Admissions Office WILL NOT schedule you until all of the above are received. RATING DATE DATE OF VESSEL HELD SHIPPED DISCHARGE GNO GNO GNO GNO SIGNATURE I am interested in the following courts)checked below or indicated here if not listed DECK AB/Sealift 1st Class Pilot Third Mate Radar ObserverUnlimited Master InspectedTowing Vessel D Towboat Operator Inland D Celestial Navigation D Simulator Course • D D D O ENGINE • FOWT • QMED—^Any Rating D Variable Speed DC Drive Systems (Marine Electronics) _DATE G Marine Electrical Maintenance G Pumproom Maintenance & Operation G Refrigeration Systems Maintenance & Operation G Diesel Engine Technology G Assistant Engineer/Chief Engineer Motor Vessel G Original 3rd Engineer Steam or Motor G Refrigerated Containers Advanced Maintenance G Electro-Hydraulic Systems G Automation G Hydraulics Q Marine Electronics Technician G G G G G STEWARD Assistant Cbok Utility Cook and Baker Chief Cook Chief Steward Towboat Inland Chok ALL DEPARTMENTS G Welding G Lifeboatman (must be taken with another course) Q Oil Spill Prevention& Contairunent G Basic/Advanced ' Fire Fighting G Sealift G G G G ADULT EDUCATION DEPARTMENT Adult Basic Education (ABE) High School Equivalency Program (GED) Developmental Studies (DVS) English as a Second Lavage (ESL) G ABE/ESL Lifeboat Preparation COLLEGE PROGRAM G Associate in Arts Degree plete the caniafclfyou have any qaestloBS,contact your portagent bdbredepMtlntlbrllneyPBtot. RETURN COMPLETED APPUCATION TO: Lnadebcn Upgradfaig Ccaicr, P.O. Box 7S, Flaey Pbtat. MD 2W74. ' .'' i' �1^: SI •••f • If^s; pmai:: •". I • !k M-: [A •: . .• if' • • y '' :^- i-' M. lil- N §:^y::yy SEAmKEMCS Volume 55, Number 12 December 1993 Seafarers Pension Trust -Page 25 MCS Supplementary Pension Plan -Page 28 Seafarers hearn Spill Prevention, Containment jn^e: More than two dozen SIU as benzene; use and care o: members recently completer different safety and breathin Oil Spill Prevention and Con equipment; sampling techni tainment classes at the Fan ques; emergency response Hall Center for Maritime plans; decontamination; selec Training and Education in tion of sorbents, suction equip Piney Point, Md. ment and skimmers and their The 35-hour course is m proper use, and other subjects eluded in all able seamen anc The FOWTs and pumpmen engine department upgradin, last month jointly took part in curricula (and also is available several drills which are as a safety specialty course) designed to enhance students The Seafarers who finished the understanding of spill contain­ class last month took it either ment. as part of the curriculum for One of the chemical drills upgrading to Fireman, Oiler involved the use of protective and Watertender (FOWT) or masks and suits which literally as part of the Pumpman covered the students from upgrading course. head to toe. After donning the "This (oil spill) course protective clothing, students definitely helped my con­ proceeded onto a training fidence," remarked Marsha )arge, where they used highDawson, who is taking the ech equipment to test for pumpman class scheduled to umes, toxicity levels and ^art of the 35-hour oil spill prevention course is this drill, which involves the use of containment booms. be completed December 17. more. (In an actual potentially Above, students close on the mock spill site and prepare to surround it. "Now if something happens, dangerous situation, they I'll be much better prepared. would do some testing first to hypothetically scheduled to at a safe distance. I'm more aware of how the determine how much and what oad 500 barrels of diesel fuel; "Those drills were out­ chemicals can react with your ype of protective equipment he MV Bull Shepard standing," said John Osburn, body, the trouble you can get to wear.) scheduled to take on an imagi­ also a member of the into. The containment drill in­ nary 2,000 barrels of bunker pumpman class. "I helped tape "My last ship was a tanker, volved the use of flotation uel; and three other opera­ the guys in the (protective) so I deal with oil and other equipment which would con- tions. suits.... chemicals a lot." Ine oil to a limited area. Stu­ "The course helped me be­ Taking Fast Action Oil Spill Prevention and dents first received a mock come a lot more aware of how When the students arrived to properly use the equipment Containment features a mix of operations order listing five or the drill, they did not know and how to protect yourself." practical work (including lab separate hazmat activities at time) and classroom studies. ive different locations (most he location of die "spill" until "Being able to actudly do Topics include legal over­ aboard training vessels) was time for action. Immedi­ all those things instead of just views of OSHA standards and around the Lundeberg School, ately after the spill site was seeing it on film is quite an Coast Guard regulations; basic 'or example, the list given to announced, some of the class experience," added Dawson, a chemistry of oil and some the FOWTs and pumpmen in­ members unloaded contain­ three-year member of the SIU. other hazardous materials such cluded the MV Susan Collins ment booms, manned small "The drills were very Using state-of-the-art equipment,, motorboats and towed the gear thorough, and they helped me siuu'ent checks danger level of onto the water. They then sur­ a lot." chemical leak aboard a barge. rounded as much of the spill as possible with the flotaion/containment devices, then anchored the equipment. The National Center for Lucinda Al-Salem was Throughout this process, the Missing and Exploited Shafaa abducted by her non-custodial students aboard the boats Children has asked the father, Deafallah Mohammad maintained radio contact with Seafarers International Union Al-Salem (alias Mohammad others who were on shore to assist them in locating Al-Salem Deafoliah, A1 Salem or Danny Abraham). He may and/or were aboard the train­ Shafaa Lucinda Al-Salem. Missing from El Paso, walk wiA a limp. He also has ing vessels. Texas since September 1988, a gap between his teeth. An Additionally, other class when she was six years old. FBI warrant has been issued in members used reflective tape his name. o designate shoresid^azmat At the time of her abduc­ areas, thereby keeping by­ tion, the brown-haired, brownDuring a chemical drill, Marsha ohn Osburn assists a classmate eyed girl was 3 feet 8 inches Dawson marks off an area by properly donning protective standers and others who may tall and weighed 44 pounds. ^ using bright yellow "hazmaf tape. othing, including a mask. lave been working in the area Now 10 years old, Shafaa Al-Salem has a scar on her nose. She also may be known by the name Shafaa Salem. Anyone having information on the whereabouts of Shafaa Lucinda Al-Salem should con­ tact the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children at (800) 843-5678 or the Miss­ ing Persons Unit of the FBI Shafaa Lucinda Al-Salem (Texas) at (915) 533-7451. Help Locate nis Missing ChiU Students from FOWT arid pumpman courses complete placement of booms around the Bull Shepard. .-1 • -4?- • SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORTS „ 1, � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 1990-1999 Description An account of the resource Volumes LII-LXI Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993; Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource December 1993 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES MARAD SURVEY OF NATIONS REVEALS WIDE-RANGING MARITIME SUPPORT HOUSE STANDS UP FOR U.S. SHIPPING BILL TO REVITALIZE MARITIME PASSED BY 347-65 VOTE IN WAKE OF NAFTA, FIGHT FOR FAIR TRADE NO OVER: KIRKLAND ANTI U.S. SHIP GROUP HITS NEW LOW COAST GUARD OUTLINES PLANS FOR MARINER CARD RENEWAL ITB GROTON RESCUES 7 CUBAN REFUGEES OMI CHARGER’S CAPTAIN COMMENDS CREW FOR COURAGEOUS CONDUCT TUBERCULOSIS PROGRAM BEGINS JANUARY 1 IN SIU CLINICS MEMBERSHIP MEETING DATES SET FOR 1994 FOREIGN-FLAG SHIPS COLLIDE NEAR NEW ORLEANS CRUISE-SHIP CREW ‘RAN LIKE DEER’ SIU PRESSES FOR INLAND SAFETY REGS GREAT LAKES SHIPS CONTINUE SAILING IN FRIENDLY WEATHER SIU CREWED WILLIAMS RETURNS TO STATES FOR HULL INSPECTION AIRCRAFT CARRIER PROVES NO MATCH FOR NAVAJO HOUSE REPELS ATTACK ON CARGO PREFERENCE LABOR DENOUNCES NAFTA WILL PUSH FOR FAIR TRADE NO DOWN TIME WHEN GEMINI CREW CHANGES IN JAPAN FAUST BRINGS HIGH-SPEED TRAIN TO U.S. FOR TESTING COUPLE IN THE UNION: VARNEYS ENJOY SEAFARING LIFE TOGETHER RIVERBOAT GALLEY GANG MEMBER IS FIRST TO UPGRADE FIVE EXPRESS MARINE BOATMEN JOIN SPECIAL LUNDEBERG COURSE CARGOES VARY ABOARD MATSONIA: EVERYTHING FROM BOXES TO HORSES OVERSEAS ARCTIC GALLEY GANG SERVES TOP-NOTCH MEALS SEAFARERS LEARN SPILL-PREVENTION, CONTAINMENT Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 12/01/1993 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 55, No. 12 1993 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/9f37b434770e753a3760faa1830d598c.PDF 0a0b381c43af056e52af7f054a3222a6 PDF Text Text •• OfFKIAl ORGAN OF THI SEAFARERS IMTERNATtONAL UNION • ATlAWnC GUIF. LAKES AND INUNP WATERS MSTRIG • AFL-CIO Volume 55, Number If A?.' ' In 67-30 Vote, Senate Beats Back Attack On Seamen's Wages c/jyi.TT-ir" CO Sim y)»-«73 •-< -HaQ CO ID 21 CO Vi ^momcr 0-ir-'-H I -s. Seafarer Thomas Correll steadies the pilot lad­ der aboard the ITB New York for a Cuban refugee found adrift in the Caribbean, The SIUcrewed vessel recently performed two rescues, which are described in a story on page 28. . coir ^ D n CD 1-NJ r»s: CO (TO 3*0 O T|j> - -o Sim • .•••: -Mr..-;-' • • -. ^ • Page 3 Lends a Helping Hand • J: O v^j>r) Pag :• :>;;A November 1993 AFL-nO FigMs To Nix NAFTA . •V Amtrak Disaster Points Up Noed For Tighter iniand Safety Regs J i: i. Page 2 Victims of Vietnam Biast Memoriaiized A monument honoring the seven merchant mariners whb died when a mine struck their vessel as it carried rnilitary cargo on the Saigon River is unveiled by Henry Disley (left), president of the SlU-affiliated Marine Fireman's Union. He is joined by Baton Rouge Victory sunlwors BR Toll Alston (center) and AS Milton Hendrick. The monument, located on San Francisco's waterfront, is the first of its kind to honor mariners who lost their lives during the Southeast Asia conflict. Story on page 6. The North American Export Grain Association, the big advocate for foreign shippirig, refuses to admit ties to multinational interests. Story on page 5. . •/•fwK '-i- ^ ' • M>, �2 HOyEMRERim SEi^ARERS LOG President's Report AnrinkObi^ Spol^Ms Heed For Touaha'Maud SaMf Itegs Who Is Looking ^ After the Taxpayers? 7-"-'••• t3i?7 • ': ; N; 'MlifedfSi'.' • AP/Wide World Photos Amtrak's Sunset L/m/fed derailed approximately eight minutes after one of the tugboat MVMauvilla's barges slammed into the Big Bayou Canot Bridae near Mobile. Ala., killing 47 people. see story below.) SIU National Director o Governmental Relations Terry Continued on page 25 Documented Seamen Train Derailment on Bridge Are Safer Tied to the Strike of a Tow Workers, Study Shows On October 12, repre­ given before the subcommittee as sentatives from the National well as from various news reports The contrasting difference in Transportation Safety Board, the since the time of the crash. Na­ the total number of accidents due United States Coast Guard, tional Transportation Safety to human error between U.S.-flag Federal Railroad Administration, Board (NTSB) officials are cur­ deep sea ships or Great Lakes ves­ Amtrak, Seafarers Intemational rently investigating all aspects o sels or tugs and towboats con­ Union and-American Waterways the Amtrak derailment and results What's Really Behind firms the need to have all Operators, testified before theSub­ of the investigation will be an­ crewmembers meet basic require­ The Rhetoric? committee on Coast Guard and nounced to the public in early ments of the United States Coast In the House of Representatives yet another farm-state legislator Navigation concerning the events 1994. the government agency Guard, has found another way to take a shot at the nation's maritime policy. The MV Mauvilla, owned by surrounding the September 22 He says something like this: Just move funding for the transport of crash of Amtrak's passenger Warrior & Gulf Navigation Com­ responsible for marine safety. Data cited in a recent article in food aid cargoes from the Department of Agriculture to the Depart­ train—the Sunset Limited. The pany of Chickasaw, Ala., and its ment of Transportation or the Department of Defense. By law, govern­ disaster also prompted the subcom­ six barges, loaded with coke, coal the Mobile Press Register reveals ment-donated food cargo is purchased and shipped with Department mittee to c^ on the officials to and woodchips, were headed up that more than four times per of Agriculture monies. address safety regulations of the the Mobile River, bound for Tus­ day—1,600 times a year—^barges This scheme is just another way the giant agricultural interests inland tug and barge iiidustry. caloosa, Ala., in heavy fog. With are involved in an accident. There were 11,586 accidents involving hope to increase their subsidy from the U.S. government. The huge The description below is Continued on page 25 tank and freight barges between commodity traders believe that if the Department of Agriculture were gathered from the testimonies 1983 and 1989 and statistics show relieved of the transportation costs, it ultimately would result in a big­ that 2,418 bridges were struck by ger subsidy for the agriculture groups. commercial marine vessels be­ This is not the real issue anyway. In any case it is the American tween 1981 and 1990. taxpayer who is footing the bill. That is what is the most galling about this attempt to try and make another government agency pick up the These astounding figures tab for the movement of Department of Agriculture cargo. The giant demonstrate that the safety of agricultural corporations act like the Department of Agriculture each and every person who works monies are their own personal cash, reserved for them alone. There ap­ on a tug or tow is at stake, as is the pears to be no sense that this is a government agency sustained by all safety of those who live in coastal The United States Maritime dustry," the coalition said in an communities and who use the the American people in the national interest. Insofar as maintaining an American farm sector or an American merchant marine is concerned, Coalition has urged President October letter sent to all con­ water or related bridges. Clinton and every member of gressmen and to other elected of­ it has consistently been the policy of the United States that having a The SIU has studied data con­ vital agricultural sector and a strong shipping capability are in the na­ Congress to support a bill ficials. The bill "is the result of tained in the Coast Guard's designed to revitalize the U.S.- many months of work, delibera­ database on casualties and marine tional interest. That being the case, whatever sacrifices America flag merchant fleet. makes in order to support domestic farming and U.S. shipping are tion and compromise. Immediate accidents (CASMAIN) in an ef­ H.R. 2151, the Maritime and positive action is necessary fort to determine the safety record paid for by American taxpayers overall. The government monies that Security and Competitiveness because if a program is not put in of the inland maritime industry. support these programs should hardly be considered the personal ac­ Act of 1993, scheduled for a floor place soon, many vessels will The union found that within the counts of giant grain companies, many of which are foreign-owned. Finally, what is particularly ludicrous about the entire effort by vote in the House during the first leave the American flag forever." inland field, human error is more the agricultural commodity dealers to sack the nation's cargo week of November,"will result in The coalition, which formed in likely to account for an accident preference laws is that these groups are direct beneficiaries of U.S. cost savings to the U.S. Govern­ September, represents citizen than in either the Great Lakes or government subsidies that amount to some $70 billion a year. By ment, substantial deregulation to groups and all parts of the deep sea areas. comparison, government subsidies to the American merchant marine improve intemational competi­ maritime industiy in the U.S. It While the Mobile Press tiveness of vessels operating includes patriotic groups; Register examined tank and do not even show up on the screen. under the U.S. flag, and a strong, reight-barge accidents, the CAS­ more efficient maritime inContinued on page 9 MAIN data studied by the SIU Who Stands To Gain? bcused on tugs and tows which What aU of us must bear in mind is that the battle over American are becoming equally dangerous maritime pblicy is a battle about money and profits. The billion-dollar Volume 55. Number 11 November 1993 1 o operate on the nation's increas­ giant grain dealing companies and their spokesmen in Congress do ingly crowded waterways. not have as their main goal changing the wages of American seamen The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 0160-2047) is published In the period from the late or restracturing the budgets of several U.S. government agencies. monthly by the Seafarers Intemational Union; Atlantic, 1970s through mid-1991, of the (And I want to make it clear that I am saying "world's giant grain Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District; AFL-CIO- 5201 accidents recorded by the U.Sdealers" because in no way do American family farmers benefit from Springs. Md. 20746. Telephone (301) Coast Guard involving tugs and the maneuvers of these international commodity dealers.) 899-0675. Second-class postage paid at MSG Prince tows, the leading cause was at­ This fight is a fight about money—money that the multi-billion Georges, Md. 20790-9998 and at additional mailing tributed to human factors by 58 dollar agribusiness and agricultural commodity dealers believe should offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the )ercent. In contrast, on Great be in their pockets. On the other side, it is a matter of the nation's in­ Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way. Camp Springs, Md. ^akes vessels, human factors ac­ terest and its absolute need to have a shipping capability, maintained zU74o. counted for 36 percent of the ac­ for virtually peanuts in the scope of the overall U.S. government / Communications Departmeitt Director and Editor Jes­ cidents; similarly on deep sea budget, that stands ready to serve both in times of peace and war. sica Smith; Managing Editor, Daniel Duncan; Asswiate vessels human factors resulted in This is what should be borne in mind when you hear all the false Editors,/ordon Biscardo and Cortina Christensen; As­ 31 percent of the accidents. On claims of the spokesmen of the world grain dealers. Remember who sociate Editor/Production, Deborah A. Hirtes; Art, Bill is behind the words and who stands to gain. Brower. Continued on page 25 U.S.-Flag CoaliSon Urges CongresSf President to Back Maritime Program t'•; f-'- Last month in a debate in Congress a farm-state senator attacked American merchant seamen as being overpaid. He alleged that American seamen are making a fortune from tax­ payer monies. The senator, who has long been an opponent of U.S. shipping, would have been far more can­ did and honest in his argument if he had gotten right down and said, "I don't want to see U.S.flag ships and cargo preference and the Jones Act because there are more profits for the giant grain dealers and their foreign ships with a U.S. fleet and those laws being around." This statement Michael Sacco would more accurately reflect the farm-state senator's ultimate aim. It seems as if the senator were really serious about the misuse of tax funds, he would not level his guns at the American seaman who is simply an American citizen, skilled in his or her craft, who is paid a decent wage reflecting the civilized and developed nation from which he comes. Instead the farm-state senator would be leveling his guns at the giant grain traders who, according to recent articles in TTie New York Times, are raking in billions of dollars of taxpayer monies under the guise of helping increase the level of exports of American farm products. The New York Times articles (October 10, 11, 12) point out that family farmers are not benefitting from all the export subsidies. It is the giant grain companies, many of them foreign-owned, which are getting rich off taxpayer dollars. The articles further point out.that the huge agriculture groups engage in some very shady practices in the process of wheeling and dealing with the Department of Agriculture and the Agency for International Development. So billions of tax­ payer dollars are lost in schemes that border on the illegal. This seems like an area that a farm-state senator should examine very closely. With family farmers throughout the nation taking a beat­ ing it bears investigation why the very programs that are supposed to help the American farm and rural communities are actually enriching only a very select group of multi-billion dollar international com­ modity companies. Citing the recent Amtrak dis­ aster which stemmed from an ac­ cident involving a tug/tow, the SIU, elected officials and various government agencies stressed the need for improved safety regula­ tions governing navigation on the nation's inland waterways. They made their case at an October 12 hearing before the House Sub­ committee on Coast Guard and Navigation, following the Sep­ tember 22 -derailment of Amtrak's Sunset Limited. The passenger train went off track and plunged into the water after a barge pushed by a tugboat, called the MV Mauvilla, rammed into an Alabama bridge causing the tracks to shift over three feet out of place. The shift ih rail alignment resulted in the derail­ ment that caused the worst train disaster in Amtrak's history and claimed the lives of 47 people. (For a more detailed account of the derailment of the Sunset Limited \ '•y �•r C. • ' NOVEMBER 1993 SEAFARERS LOG 3 Looking for Cheap Labor — Go NAFTA AFL-tM Fi^hs To Mx NAFTA Organized labor continues to of proclamation by the prime lead the battle against the minister had not been taken. proposed North American Free Chretien, who will become the Trade Agreement (NAFTA)— new prime minister, said duririg potentially devastating pact the campaign that he wanted to which Congress is scheduled to renogotiate portions Of NAFTA vote on later this month. in order to protect Canadian The AFL-CIO, the national workers and jobs. The Clinton ad­ federation of trade unions, recent­ ministration reportedly is con­ ly began a multi-media campaign sidering imposing trade focusing on key congressional restrictions on Canadian wheat districts throughout the country exported to the U.S. if Chretien and warning that NAFTA would demands new talks.) cost hundreds of thousands of Citing NAFTA's Dangers U.S. jobs. This campaign is Labor has plenty of company designed to counter the efforts of in its opposition to Ae agreement, NAFTA proponents (U.S. multi­ which, would encourage busi­ national corporations and the nesses to take advantage of Mexican government) who have Mexico's cheap labor and lax en­ spent $50 million in advertising and lobbying to push for the vironmental laws. Elected offi­ YES YOU CAN flawed trade deal oiiginally cials, economists and some negotiated by the Bush ad­ business leaders have joined trade unionists in stating that they are ministration. where labor costs average in favor of genuinely fair trade And you rould save over The House of Representatives under $1 an hour, including $15,000 a yeat per worker; is expected to vote on NAFTA, but are against NAFTA because it benefits. Far; far less than in if yoti had an offshore pro­ the Far East And Utss thait duction plant here. which would eliminate tariffs is a severely flawed proposal CBI, Central America and So if you want to see how (and the billions of dollars in which would hurt working even less than the rest of well you or your plant man­ Mexico agers can live here wliile . revenue which they account for) families in all three countries The employee turnover making your company more between the U.S., Mexico and directly affected by it. rate is less than 5% a yeac competitive in world mar­ We're only •ItiO miles and "We can and must do better kets. call for a fiee video Canada, sometime before 90 minutes by air from the tour of the State of Yucatan than this NAFTA," House Thanksgiving. A close vote is ex­ U.S. at 70S-295-I793. Majority Leader Richard pected. When the US. is too expensive and the Far East too hx, (At press time, Canada's im­ Gephardt (D-Mo.) told delegates "%s You Can In lUcatan." mediate position on NAFTA was in October at the AFL-CIO con­ Cknvrnment of the State of Yucatan. Mexico. Department of Industrial and Commeicial Deivlopment unclear due to the decisive vic­ vention in San Francisco. Gephardt pointed out that during Advertisements like these which ran in national business journals tories in late October of Jean the 1980s, real wages of Mexican Chretien and other members of demonstrate that passage of NAFTA will mean a loss of job to that country's Liberal Party in workers dropped by 30 percent— American workers. ^ederal elections. Previously, even though their productivity Canada's Parliament had ap- rose by 35 percent. "If Mexican wages CM't come jroved NAFTA; but the fin^ step YUCmN up, there won't be any money in the hands of Mexican workers to buy the products that we hope freer trade would allow them to buy," he added. "If Mexican wages do not go up, the compul­ sion of our companies to go there to get the benefit of that very lowwage labor will be overwhelm­ ing." Senator Harris Wofford (DPa.) recently told an audience of union members in Pittsburgh that NAFTA "is not fair to American workers, families or com­ munities. Free trade? Yes. Ex­ panded trade? Yes. But fair trade it has to be, and NAFTA does not add up to fair trade." The costs of an enacted NAFTA would be felt in both the short and long term, AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Thomas Donahue recently told the Senate Labor Committee. Donahue said Continued on page 4 MTD Tackles Trade Pact The Maritime Trades Department (MTD) joined with the AFL-CIO in urging Con­ gress to reject the North American Free Trade Agree­ ment (NAFTA). Delegates to the MTD's biennial convention also called for maritime revitalization legislation and national health care reform. Coverage of the convention can be found on pages 13-16. Senate Repels Attack On Seamen's Wages Explosion Aboard OMI Charger Cargo Preference Foes Try New Tactic Kills Seafarer, 2 in Riding Crew H e?: ^ By a margin of 67 to 30, the his col­ leagues. "He Senate turned back another effort Officials from the U.S. Coast works ap­ Guard and the National Transpor­ by farm-belt legislators to attack proximately tation Safety Board (NTSB) are the U.S.-flag merchant marine. The latest strike was in the six months a continuing their investigation of a year. That is severe explosion which took place form of an amendment, offered his pay, six October 9 aboard the OMI Charger by longtime cargo preference foe months, near the Houston Ship Channel. Senator Charles Grassley (Rabout lowa) which would have limited The blast, apparently sparked $35,000, by a welding torch, resulted in the Sen. Inouye the pay level received by mem­ $40,000 a deaths of three crewmembers, in­ bers of the merchant marine when transporting materiel for the U.S. year; not $44,O0O a month." cluding 56-year-old SIU member armed forces, to the Fiscal Year Rejects Argument Milton "Willie" Williams (see 1994 Defense Department ap­ When one of Grassley's allies. epapate story). Keith Kelly and propriations bill. Senator Hank Brown (R-Colo.), lo^f Boutwell, two members of The Senate moved to table the described cargo preference as an International Marine Services, legislation, a procedural step that "looting the taxpayer to pay for a nc. riding crew, also died from effectively killed the amendment, program that does not work," In­ the explosion, which took place after a spirited debate on the floor ouye noted all nations have cargo around 8 p.m. near one of the of the chamber on October 21. world's busiest waterways. preference laws. Grassley stated the reason he The Charger's other 27 crewEvery country with a fleet has was submitting the amendment a cargo preference law," he said members were rescued almost was because he found it "incon­ in response. "If you want to buy immediately by a passing oil rig ceivable that a U.S.-flag cook oil from Saudi Arabia, can we supply boat. Most of the crewcosts more than the captain of a send our ships there? No way. members were treated at Galves­ U.S. Navy ship." You put it on a Saudi Arabian ton hospitals and released. Only Senator Daniel Inouye (D- vesse . Do we send our ships to one, another member of the riding Hawaii) countered Grassley by pick up Toyotas and Hondas and crew, remained hospitalized for noting if clothing and housing al­ Acuras? The Japanese send their more than one night, due to lowances, meals and health care ships over. That is their law." second-degree bums to his face. are considered, the annual com­ Fifteen other boats, including Mikulski Sounds Support pensation for a private goes from several SlU-crewed tugs, arrived In introducing the amend­ a base salary of $9,777 to $15,621 near the Charger shortly after the and for a lieutenant from $18,727 ment, Grassley also called into explosion and tried to contain the question the patriotism of U.S. to $34,000. fire, which blazed for more than "The real master's pay is not merchant mariners, stating "some five hours. The explosion repor­ $44,000 (as Grassley claimed). seafarers would not serve during tedly was felt as far as four miles His base pay according to the the Persian Gulf war." "I believe that when it comes away. A far less severe blast took Maritime Administration is place about one hour after the first $3,350 per month," Inouye told Continued on page 6 explosion. No time frame has been set for investigators to announce the of­ ficial cause of the accident, a Coast Guard spokesiman recently told the Seafarers LOG. How­ ever, officials have acknow­ ledged that Kelly and Boutwell were welding in one of the tanker's below-deck cargo holds at the time of the initial explosion. Officials initially were conContinued on page 6 SIU Victim of Blast Mourned by Union Seafarers mourned the death of fellow SIU member Milton "Willie" Williams and two riding crewmembers who perished in a massive explosion aboard the OMI Charger last month near the Houston Ship Channel. Brother Williams, 56, was sailing as a QMED/pumpman at the time of the accident. He reportedly died from internal in­ juries after being struck by a ladder which was propelled by the force of the explosion. A funeral was held at Com­ munity Funeral Chapels in Beaumont, Texas, and Brother Williams was buried at Forest Lawn Cemetery, also in Beaumont. SIU President Michael Sacco, in behalf of all union members, officials and staff, ex­ tended sincere condolences to Milton "Willie" Williams Brother Williams' widow, Pat, and their six children. "This was a tragic, tragic incident. It's hard to find words to adequately ex­ press our deep sense of loss and Continued on page 6 IML: "tv.' ; �4 NOVEMRER1993 SEAFARERS LOG BaWe Heats Up to Defeat NAFTA for the consequences to workers ment" under the maquiladora pro­ Continuedfrom page 3 gram brought no gains for and their communities." that, in addition to transferring as Mexican workers. Like NAFTA, Similarly, economists many as half-a-million U.S. jobs Timothy Koechlin and Mahrene the maquiladora program does to south of the border, NAFTA not allow for enforcement of such Larudee have concluded that would lead to lost tariff revenues basic worker rights as the right to NAFTA would lead to a crippling "estimated to cost $2.5 billion loss of investment in the U.S. bargain collectively, the right to over the first five years of the strike and the right to freely as­ "NAFTA's net effect by the year agreement." The cleanup of the sociate. "It didn't take into ac­ 2000 [would be] a diversion of environmental destruction in count that wages in Mexico are investment from the United Mexico would cost at least $20 States to Mexico of as much as ndt set by negotiation, but are set billion more, he said. $53 billion, a decline in U.S. by government boards that vir­ The views of many employment of up to 500,000 tually dictate what the wages will economists were summed up by jobs and a cumulative loss in U.S. be," Gephardt said. David Ranney, director of the wage income of as much As a result, Mexican ma­ as $320 Center for Urban Economic billion," they wrote. quiladora plants—at which many Development at the University of workers earn as little as 50 cents Mexicans Also Lose Illinois, who has spent the past an hour—have doubled in the Speaking at the convention, two years studying the impact of past 10 years as U.S. companies transnational corporations on Gephardt cautioned that it is not relocate their factories to posi­ employment in Chicago and the only American workers who tions along the U.S.-Mexican rest of Illinois, as well as policy stand to suffer from an enacted border. Thousands of Mexican implications of that impact. In a NAFTA. While U.S. jobs would maquiladora workers live in letter to the Chicago Tribune, be lost, and wages for remaining nearby slums, in housing made Ranney said, "NAFTA is not real­ U.S. jobs inevitably would be from scrap wood and cardboard, ly a 'free trade' agreement at all. driven downward, Mexico's with no electricity or running It gives supranational corpora­ workers also should be wary of water. tions a blank check to move their the agreement. As proof, he noted that the NAFTA would mean more of operations wherever and i when­ ever they please, without regard one-way free trade arrange­ the same, Gephardt warned. Save American JobsTell Congress 'No' to NAFTA Seafarers and their, families are urged to contact their repre­ sentatives and senators in Washington to vote against the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). Later this month, the House of Representatives is expected to cast its first vote on the trade pact which would open the door for American companies to move their factories and plants to the low wages and poor occupational health and environmental standards found in Mexico. Big business and the Mexican government have been waging a rf 1 campaign : nnnnracc •/-« naSS NAFTA. well-financed to persuade Congress to pi Their television advertisements have claimed the United States would gain jobs if the treaty was approved. However, national business trade magazines have carried ads like those seen on page 3 that tell American businesses to uproot their factories and plants and move south of the border to take ad­ vantage of the poorer working conditions in Mexico. Passage of NAFTA would mean the loss of hundreds of thousands of American jobs. The way to keep this from happening is for all Americans to contact their representatives and senators. Members of the House of Representatives can be reached by writing; The Honorable (name of representative) United States House of Representatives Washington, DC 20515 To send a letter to a senator, write: The Honorable (name of senator) United States Senate Washington, DC 20510 , f;.: . V ,. y Pro-Worker Course Set By AFL-CIO Delegates I--., Delegates to the AFL-CIO convention heard about worker concems from (left to right) President Bill Clinton, House Majority Leader Richard Gephardt, Rep. William Clay and Labor Secretary Robert Reich. Trade unionists get their point across during an anti-NAFTA rally in San Francisco held last month. Unions Press 'Work Tax' Suit <-:'•>* . •'*, • " Pretrial activities are continu­ ing in a lawsuit filed by the SIU, four other maritime labor unions and five individual mariners against the U.S. Coast Guard and the secretary of transportation to stop collecting fees on merchant marine documents (z-cards) and marine licenses. Last month, lawyers for the unions and mariners, known as the plaintiffs, filed what is known as a motion for summary judg­ ment in a federal court in Washington. The government's response is due early this month, then the maritime side will have one more opportunity for rebut­ tal. (The government previously filed its motion for summary judgment in late August.) Summary judgment is a proce­ dure used when all facts in a case Can be gathered on paper and wit­ nesses are not needed to testify in a trial in order for the judge to make a decision. A lawsuit chal­ lenging an administrative regula­ tion, such as the work tax, usually is resolved this way. Federal Judge Oberdorfer may issue final ruling as soon as early next year, although it may take longer. The suit originally was filed on Tax Day, April 15, in the U.S. District Court for the District of gress can pass a tax and the legis­ Columbia. It claims that the lative body cannot transfer that charging of fees for z-cards is un­ authority to another branch of the constitutional and amounts to a government: "The Coast Guard's "work tax," because mariners are license and document fees should unable to work without docu­ be set aside because they seek to ments. Moreover, the plaintiffs recover from individual merchant charge that the fees were calcu­ seamen and boatmen regulatory lated incorrectly by the federal costs that should be bome by the agency. public at large. Indeed, the licens­ The other unions joining the ing and documenting program Seafarers in the lawsuit are the has historically and expressly National Maritime Union/Dis­ been recognized as being in the trict 4; District No. 1-Pacific public interest. Charging in­ Coast District Marine Engineers dividual mariners for these benefits Beneficial Association; the amounts, as a constitutional matter, American Maritime Officers, to imposing an impermissible District 2 MEBA; and the Inter­ agency-initiated tax on them," national Organization of Masters, says the unions' court filing. Mates & Pilots. The Sailors' The user fee originated in the Union of the Pacific and the 1990 Omnibus Budget Recon­ Marine Firemen's Union, both af­ ciliation Act. filiated with the Seafarers, also The reason for removing the have joined in the fight. century-old ban on collecting fees Anthony Primeaux, William on merchant documents was to H. Mulcahy, John Paul Hoskins, raise money to reduce the nation's James C. Oliver and Perry O. budget deficiL which further indi­ Lawrence are the individual mariners who are plaintiffs cates the measure is a tax. against the Coast Guard and The fees, which the Depart­ Transportation Secretary ment pf Transportation began Federico Pena. collecting in April, range from In their motion for summary $35 for a duplicate z-card, license judgment, the unions and or certificate of registry to $272 mariners argue that only Con­ for an upper level license. 7-V / Delegates to the 20th Biennial than this NAFTA," Gephardt told AFL-CIO Convention renewed the delegates. He noted the treaty their call for the defeat of the did not take into account the fact North American Free Trade that wages in Mexico are set by Agreement (NAFTA) despite as­ government boards and not surances from President Bill through negotiations with Clinton that "I would never workers and management. knowingly do anything to cost an "If Mexican wages can't come American a job." up, there won't be any money in Trade unionists attending the the hands of Mexican workers to four-day meeting, held October buy products that we hope freer 4-7 in San Francisco, also trade would allow them to buy," pledged to fight for health care Gephardt added. reform, striker replacement legis­ To show White House support lation, maritime revitalization with labor. Labor Secretary Robert and a variety of other issues that Reich announced the Clinton affect the working people of administration's support for striker America and their families. replacement legislation. "What In addressing the meeting on its gotxi is the right to strike if a com­ opening day, Clinton said, "The pany can gut it by hiring replace­ most important thing to me today is ment workers?" Reich asked. "It that you know that this administra­ makes a mockery of a system pf tion shares your values and your collective bargaining. We have hopes and your dreams and the in­ got to plug that loophole." terests of your children." As a sponsor of striker replace­ ment legislation in the House, Help for Health Care Representative William Clay (DThe president called on labor Mo.) told the convention, "The to help pass comprehensive pendulum has swung so far in health care reform. He said he favor of business that labor laws wants the American people to are not protecting the rights of have "health care access whether workers to organize. The bedrock they're working or unemployed, whether they work for a little of collective bargaining is and al­ ways will be the right to strike." business or a big one." He noted passage of health Support U.S.-Flag Fleet care reform is a crucial step In approving the report of the needed to prepare America for the AFL-CIO executive council, challenges of the next century. delegates announced their sup­ While acknowledging labor's port for revitalization of the U.S.difference with him on NAFTA, flag merchant fleet. The report Clinton said he supports the treaty noted a variety of initiatives are because it will lead to better trade needed, including adoption of a for America in the future. federal program to enhance vessel . The president's argument for operating capabilities in interna­ NAFTA was rejected by several tional commerce and development speakers including House Majority of a national cargo policy to effi­ Le^r Richard Gephardt (D-Mo.). ciently move both government and "We can and must do better conunercial cargoes. / / / I �1993 SEAFARERS LQf^ Giant ffini/fi Lobby Balks At Revealhig For^gn Ties 5 (l^wnr The organization which serves as the chief propagandist for foreign-flag oriented grain interests is loath to divulge the foreign ownership of many of its member companies and their ties to foreign-flag shipping. The North American Export Grain As­ change between Rep. Helen Delich Bentley and sociation (NAEGA), headed by Steven A. Mr. McCoy below.) McCoy, is comprised of some 40 cor­ The evidence indicates that NAEGA, which McCoy describes as "simply a trade association," has members with links to powerful trading houses of Japan, France, Italy, Australia, Switzerland, the Netherlands and Canada. NAEGA's groups are often among the largest, most powerful corpora­ tions of those nations. The interests and holdings of these companies include hundreds of foreign-flag ships, most of them operating under runaway flags. The use of runaway flags allows shipowners to register their vessels with a nation that operates a ship registry as a cash generation measure. These Disclosed by Other Sources nations, in exchange for selling the use of their flag Despite information on NAEGA's foreign ties on the stem of a vessel, offer shipowners little or being available through a few public sources, no regulation in the area of manning requirements. NAEGA's spokesman will not name names, even Continued on page 7 when pressed by a member of Congress. (See ex­ porate groups, of which close to half are ultimately owned by foreign parent companies. Many of these corporate giants have shipping subsidiaries or af­ filiated companies with shipping interests—^the vast majority of such under foreign-flag. These facts however are not publicly stated by the organization itself. This information is gleaned from government filings of the organization and material available in business publications. (See box on page 7.) Pattern of Abuse, Corruption By Giant Agri Groups Uncovorod Food Exporters Reap Benefits of Cozy Relations With Agriculture Pep't and Development Agency The billions of U.S. taxpayer dollars spent every year to make American food commodities competitive with foreign-grown Slic^cur wheat, com and other products have fattened the coffers of a few giant corporations and have done Reaps Profit, little to increase the export of U.S. agricultural products. The New u to Help ;i AbtaaPhgueProi MONDAY ExportM ofAgTKuhuml FmducitiJ-^ York Times revealed in a series df OCTOBER 11 three articles by two reporters 1993 SUNDAY who conducted an extensive in­ OCTOBER 10 vestigation into the dealings of 1993 the Department of Agriculture. The $40 billion spent to in­ crease American agricultural ex­ Billions of taxpayer dollars spent on subsidies to up exports of ports "has instead enriched American food products are ineffective and, in many cases, misused. small group of multinational cor­ The New York Times reported in a series of three articles. porations while doing little to ex­ Agriculture refused to adopt such pand the American share of the year, while pushing for increases a ban. The New York Times in the $70 billion plus per year world's agricultural markets, reporters discovered. said the authors of the articles, U.S. government subsidy to Gov't Looks the Other Way which appeared on October 10, agriculture. The reporters found that a No Holds Barred 11 and 12. revolving door relationship with The New York Times articles Written by Dean Baquet and Diana B. Henriques, the articles detail a number of cases in which officials of the USDA, the Agen­ document how much of the profit giant agriculture interests have cy for Intemational Development amassed by the giant grain inter­ engaged in illegal and unethical (AID), the arm of the U.S. State ests has come from circumvent­ transactions involving U.S. Department which coordinates ing regulations, unethical moves govemment food aid programs. aid to developing nations, and and, in some cases, illegal ac­ The abuses range from using U.S. giant agribusiness groups government funds to bribe fostered abuses. tivities. foreign officials to spending tax­ The articles cited the case of payer monies to establish the USDA general counsel who in Enemies of Shipping The huge agribusiness groups profitable distribution monopo­ 1988 argued against barring com­ panies caught in infractions relat­ and govemment agencies named lies. ing to department programs from 'The Agriculture Department in the article are among the lead­ ing opponents of U.S. shipping continues to give billions of dol­ future participation in the laws. (See article on the North lars of business to politically agency's contracts. That same of­ American Export Grain Associa­ powerful agricultural companies ficial left govemment and today that have been caught rigging represents large exporters of tion above.) bids, fixing prices and defrauding agricultural products, said the Traditionally, these interests, Govemment programs," the ar­ reporters. while advocating the purchase A memorandum from a and use of U.S.-produced agricul­ ticle states. Department of Agriculture offi­ The reporters also found that tural products for govemment aid programs, have opposed the use the U.S. Department of Agricul­ cial to the govemment's Office of of American-flag vessels to ture (USDA) was loath to dis­ Management and Budget ob­ deliver the donated cargoes. The cipline or prosecute the violators. tained by the newspaper said his giant agribusiness lobby attacks While other govemment agencies agency did not want to adopt such the govemment monies used to prohibit contracts with com- a strict requirement because contract U.S. ships, funds that lanies that have broken U.S. laws Continued on page 7 generally amount to millions a or regulations, the Department of . 1- I Grain's McCoy Evades Congressional Queries The mouthpiece of the giant grain exporters, Steven A. McCoy, who attacks cargo preference iaws and U.S.-flag shipping generaiiy, has consistently refused to reveal the true make-up of his organization, euphemistically known as the North American Export Grain Association (NAEGA). While several members of Congress have attempted to discern the somewhat foreign character of NAEGA's membership and their ties to foreign-flag shipping, McCoy has engaged in evasive tactics. Here is an excerpt of an appearance by McCoy before the Congress. It should be noted that as of October 28 the requests for information made to McCoy last June had not been answered, according to congressional staff. Before the Subcommittee on Merchant Marine June 23,1993. Mrs. Heien Delich Bentiey (R-Md.). ... Mr. McCoy, at the agriculture appropriations hearing last week you stated you represented a little as­ sociation. It is my understanding that NAEGA, has about 40 members, inciuding all of the biggest multinational grain houses and some of the biggest companies in the world. The largest grain houses are owned by some of the richest peopie around the worid. Do any of the companies beionging to your organization have foreign parent companies? Mr. McCoy. Ali of the companies that are members of NAEGA by the by-laws of NAEGA are required to be U.S. incorporated companies. Mrs. Bentley. That is not what I asked. I asked you whether they have foreign parent companies. IcCoy. Yes. Some of the companies have affiiiations with foreign Mr. Mc companies. Mrs. Bentiey. Ail of them? Mr. McCoy. No not all of them. Mrs. Bentley. 50 percent, 70 percent, 80 percent? Mr. I^Coy. It yyouid be difficult to say. Mrs. Bentley. itle\ Come on, Mr. McCoy. Mr. McCoy. Weil, it is difficult to say. I would say that some do, some don't, and it depends on how you defined it. Mrs. Bentiey. What countries are involved in the foreign parent com­ panies? Mr. McCoy. Weil, a multinational company typically might include within its organizationMrs. Bentley. I asked—are they Japan, Switzerland, Italy and Canada? Mr. McCoy. I beg your pardon? Mrs. Bentley. Are they Japan, Switzerland, Italy and Canada? Mr. McCoy. There is a possibility of connections in those countries. Mrs. Bentley. Do those foreign interests benefit from foreign aid paid for by American taxpayers? Mr. McCoy. No, not at ali. Mrs. Bentley. They don't from the grain subsidies they receive? Mr. McCoy, No. Mrs. Bentiey. They do not benefit? Mr. McCoy. No. Mrs. Bentiey. Mr. McCoy, think of what you are saying. j.Thefc Mr. McCoy. I am saying exactly wh&t I just said. No. The foreign interests don't benefit. The beneficiary, if there is any beneficiary as far as a grain company is concerned, would be a U.S. incorporated affiliate. Mrs. Bentiey. Controlled andowned by the foreign parent company, Mr. McCoy. Mr. McCoy. I am sorry. It is irrelevant who would control or own a company. Mrs. Bentley. Come on, Mr. McCoy, let's not play Tiddley Winks. Is NAEGA required to register as a lobbyist for foreign companies under the Foreign Agent Registration Act? Mr. McCoy. No, we are not. Mrs. Bentiey. But you have ail these multinational companies. Mr. McCoy. As I say, the compariies who are a member of NAEGA are members by virtue of their U.S. incorporated status. Mrs. Bentiey. Do any of your members own foreign flag vessels? Mr. McCoy. I don't know. Mrs. Bentiey. Come on, Mr. McCoy. Mr. McCoy. I am sorry. I don't know. I don't know. I would assume that some would but frankly it has never been an issue that Ihave been intensely interested in. Mrs. Bentley. I would like an answer for that and I would like a specific answer for that, the numbers and who. Mr. McCoy, i would be happy to do my best to provide that. Mrs. Bentiey. And with that, some! of the foreign aid that is paid for the cargo carried on these vessels means that your association companies also benefit from the American taxpayers' dollar. Mr. McCoy. I will do the best I can to provide any information you request. •'.f •f. ••i.i •. >•' - ••• 'W �6 ROVEMRER1993 SEAFARERS LOG Seafarer Among Casualties in Houston Channoi ExpiTOion Continued from page 3 cemed about a possible fuel spill (the Charger's holds were empty, but its own bunker supply was 365,000 gallons). However, the vessel's fuel was transferred to a barge without incident, thereby ending the threat of pollution. The 660-foot ship was re­ floated near the channel several days after the accident. Owned by OMI Corp. of New York, the Charger was at anchor when the explosion took place. Accident Remembered Bosun Eugene Beverly had just taken a seat in the crew mess hall when he heard a noise which seemed a thousand times louder than thunder. He felt the ship con­ tort as if it had been twisted in the hands of a giant. "It was a terrible explosion. You had to be there to understand just how serious it was," said Beverly, 59, who was not injured. "My first thought was that there would be a chain reaction of ex­ plosions, because I knew we weren't gas-free." The officers and crewmembers reacted quickly, and within a few minutes the survivors gathered on the stern. ABs Chuck Collins and Jimmie Scheck car­ ried Williams there; Beverly and others knew that two other men had been working in the tank and could not possibly have survived. "Considering the situation, I was very proud of how the men conducted themselves," the bosun said. "They were very or­ derly. Keep in mind, this was a hell of an experience." Rescue Boat Waiting The Charger quickly sank in about 40 feet of water, which ac­ tually facilitated the rescue. "Right after the explosion, we took about a 25-degree list to port," Beverly recalled."Once we hit bot­ tom, the stem was almost even with the water,so we practically stepped off the ship right onto the crew boat (the Tim McCalt)." He added that, although he and the other crewmembers are trying to put the incident behind them, "To be honest, I don't think you ever completely forget something like this." The Coast Guard's Marine Safety Office in Galveston and the NTSB, an independent federal agency, concluded a joint hearing on the accident last month but will issue separate reports once the in­ vestigation is over. According to published reports, this incident marked one of more than two dozen empty-tank ex­ plosions worldwide in the past seven years—accidents which AP Photo/Rick Bowmer The 660-foot gasoline tanker OM! Charger\\es with a giant hole in its side as a result of an explosion and fire that occurred October 9 near the mouth of the Houston Ship Channel close to Galveston, Texas. The cause of the blast, which killed three crewmembers, is under investigation. have resulted in 30 fatalities. The Charger had been in a shipyard for one month prior to the accident and was preparing to take on a cargo of gas in Texas City. The SIU members who were on board during the accident were Beverly, Williams, Collins, Scheck, ABs Daniel Hebior, Clemente Rocha and Kevin Hamilton, Pumpman Jack Singletary, OMUs Eldridge Smith, Daniel Campbell and Andy Lopez, GUDE Darryl Brown, Chief Steward Neville Johnson, Chief Cook Ambrosio Fachini and SA Arthur Reeves. Union Mourns Loss of QMEO Killed in OMI Charger Blast In 1975, the chief engineer of the SS Shenandoah summed up sympathy," Sacco stated. "We Brother Williams' work habits in will miss Willie, and we share his a letter of recommendation which read in part: "Williams was able family's grief." to work cooperatively with 'A Good Union Member' several different mates and en­ Brother Williams "was a good gineers. His attitude is very good. guy, very well-liked and very He is the type of man needed professional. He knew his job," aboard ships I would recom­ said SIU Port Agent Jim McGee. mend him for the engine depart­ "I knew Willie for many years. ment of any ship and would He always made an effort to teach be happy to have him in the young guys. He was a good always my department again." union member." SIU officials and members Brother Williams graduated from the port of Houston ex­ who said, "The use of the from the Lundeberg School in American-flag ship actually 1969, after serving a four-year tended the union's heartfelt sad­ saves the Defense Department stint in the Marine Corps. A na­ ness to Brother Williams' family money because the alternative tive of the U.S. Virgin Islands, he immediately after the accident would be for the Defense Depart­ first sailed as a wiper aboard the and throughout the following weeks. Father Sinclair Oubre, a ment to establish its own fleet to Sea-Land Galveston'm 1969. Catholic priest who also sails as cany this cargo." He later sailed aboard an AB, gave a prayer service for Senator Dianne Feinstein (ID- Isthmian Lines ships, and in 1974 Calif.) emphasized the economic he upgraded to QMED at the Lun­ Brother Williams at the October membership meeting in Houston. and military importance of the deberg School. He also conducted a mass in U.S.-flag merchant fleet. "The Bosun Eugene Beverly, who merchant marine, in peacetime, sailed with Williams off and on memoiy of Brother Williams on plays an important role in the since the mid-1970s, was aboard October 20. economies of coastal states such as the Charger when the explosion Additional condolences may Califomia and has far-reaching im­ took place. "I don't believe you be sent to Pat Williams and Fami­ pacts on states that produce the could find a better shipmate" than ly, c/o Seafarers International cargo carried by these fleets," she Williams, said Beverly. "He was Union, 1221 Pierce St., Houston, said. TX 77002. a fine person." Continued from page 3 Senators Defeat Attack on Wages Continued from page 3 to transporting supplies and other materiel that that should go under an American flag, staffed by American seamen who are not only cost-effective but have an ethic of patriotism," Senator Bar­ bara Mikulski (D-Md.) responded. The senator quoted the head of the U.S. Transportation Com­ mand, which oversees the move­ ment of equipment within the military, during the Persian Gulf conflict as saying unlike foreign vessels no American ship was delayed for the lack of a crew. ii sP:;";!:-. Si.'v-••• V-' Recalling a recent Senate debate, she said, "If American people are reluctant to put their troops under a foreign com­ mander, why would they want to put their materiel and supplies under a foreign-flag ship?" John Breaux (D-La.), the chairman of the Senate Merchant Marine Subcommittee, pointed out Grassley's "amendment would do away with the cargo preference program for military cargo. Adding that cargo preference laws and the presence of the U.S.flag merchant fleet saves the Defense Department money was Senator Paul Sarbanes (D-Md.), Lost Vietnam Mariners Honorecl By San Francisco Monument Years of struggle against veterans' groups and bureaucratic red tape came to an end last month when a concrete monument honoring seven merchant mariners—including five mem­ bers of the SIUNA-affiliated Marine Firemen's Union (MFU)—who lost their lives in Vietnam was unveiled on the San Francisco waterfront., The ceremony on October 3 was the culmination of seven years of work by the MFU and Califomia state Senator Milton Marks to have these Americans honored with the others who died during the war in southeast Asia. The seven—Chief Electrician Raymond G. Barrett, Second Electrician Earl T. Erickson, Oiler James W. McBride, Wiper Timothy A. Riordan Jr., FiremanAVatertender Robert J. Rowe, First Assistant Engineer John A. Bishop and Second Assistarit Engineer Charles B. Rummel—were killed aboard the Baton Rouge Victory when the ship struck a mine as it was sailing in the Long Tao channel of the Saigon River on August 23,1966. "This caps a longtime effort to honor the crew of the Baton Rouge Victory," stated Henry "Whitey" Disley, president of the MFU. "We were opposed by memorial and veterans affairs commissions who claimed they shouldn't be included in their monuments because they weren't members of the armed forces. But they gave the ultimate sacrifice and we , are here to honor ^d remember them." Disley, who spearheaded the campaign for the monument, described during the ceremony the problems the union and its sup­ porters overcame to honor the mariners. He noted original plans called for the seven names to be added to the Vietnam Wall in Washington, D.C. but that was turned down because the mariners were not part of the armed forces. The same reasoning was used when an attempt to add the names to the Califomia inemorial was refused. When a separate memorial plaque for the state monument was suggested, Califomia Gover­ nor George Deukmejian vetoed it. Then after the present design was submitted for a location on the state capital lawn, the monu­ ment was declared oversized and plans should be resubmitted. Instead, the San Francisco Port Commission approved the monu­ ment and offered a location on the Embarcadaro that overlooks San Francisco Bay. "Here with great pride through the efforts of the unions and their allies, people can pause and read of a sacrifice by merchant mariners," said James Herman, president of the port commission and past president of the Intemational Longshoremen's and Warehousemen's Union. "It is sad and tragic we had to engage in such a struggle to honor those who went down to the sea on the Baton Rouge Victory," Herman added. "Their loyalty to country was second to none." Jack Henning, executive secretary-treasurer of the Califor­ nia Labor Federation, said no greater tribute could be paid to the memory of the seven than "the Henry "Whitey" Disley (left) joins former Baton Rouge Victory crew­ members Bedroom Steward Toll Alston (center) and AB Milton Hendrick in unveiling the monument to seven merchant mariners who died on the ship in Vietnam. restoration of the U.S.-flag mer­ chant marine. There is no proof war will never visit us again. We must build our merchant marine not only for defense, but also for restoration of our economy." The concrete monument stands four feet high and eight feet wide. It features a bronze relief portrait of the vessel on the right and a description of the sink­ ing of the ship with the seven victims' names on the left. The base is inscribed with the words, "American merchant seamen who made the supreme sacrifice." More than 100 people attended the ceremony including former Baton Rouge Victory crewmem­ bers and family members of those who died in the explosion. Others participating in the un­ veiling included Rear Admiral Thomas J. Patterson, Monsignor John P. Heaney, Captain Frank Johnson of MarAd and Sen. Marks. : r-— �•V -V'.. ••f;. • : -v: '-y-m- NOVEMBER 1993 SEAFARERS LOG AnH U.S.-Flag Ship Gim^ I^M-Lphietl on Awtetan Ties lax safety standards and very favorable tax treat­ ment. Among the world's most popular runaway registers are Panama, Liberia, Vanuatu and Norway among others. (While Norway at one time was a traditional maritime nation, operating national-flag vessels crewed by Norwegian seamen and account­ able to Norway, Ae nation now operates a so-callec second register which lifts the requirements as­ sociated with a national flag register and offers runaway-flag like benefits for shipowners.) Runaway-flag ships, which by their very nature are running away from the higher standards and taxes of traditional maritime nations, have a track record of exploiting, abusing, even enslaving crewmembers, a history of avoiding legal authorities of Who's for Subsidies? any nation, particularly to escape from safety prac­ NAEGA advocates using American taxpayer tices, inspections and other practices which add to money to support bargain basement runaway ship­ the cost of an operation. ping, attacking the American shipping industry, In addition to having a runaway-flag com­ ponent, many NAEGA members operate in the which competes with fleets of other nations sub­ billions of dollars of revenue a year category. And sidized by their governments directly and indirectly a good share of the NAEGA members are trading and with fleets subsidized in a round-about-manner houses, not farmers or farm groups, but traders of by allowing them no ties to any nation through the device of runaway flags. commodities, including oil, metals, and other Ironically, NAEGA does not believe what is products. good for the goose is good for the gander. The organ Congress is Still Waiting for the giant export grain lobby does not advocate As it stands now, two House subcommittees are using U.S. government monies to purchase the awaiting information from NAEGA on its foreign cheaper wheat and com available on the world ties. The requests for this data were made in hear­ market—the very low cost wheat and com on ings on June 17 by a member of the House Foreign which is based the rationale for subsidizing Agriculture and Hunger Subcommittee and on June American grain and food product exports. 23 by a member of the House Subcommittee on The grain group instead stands fully behind Merchant Marine. govemment subsidies for exported agricultural In questioning by representatives at these hear­ products. Much of this is done through a subsidy ings, McCoy feigned lack of knowledge in regard process known as the Export Enhancement Pro­ to the area of foreign ownership and foreign ship gram (EE?) which provides the difference to ex­ links and said he would provide the information. porting companies of the higher cost U.S. product Inquiries made to the staff of each panel revealed and the foreign-produced product selling at a lower that as of October 28, no such material from rate on the world market. NAEGA had been received by either subcommit­ According to press reports, NAEGA members tee. NAEGA is largely known on Capitol Hill and in have profited mightily from the EEF program. federal agencies for its attempts to eliminate the law Since its inception in 1985 up to the end of 1991, of the nation which states that 75 percent of U.S. NAEGA member Cargill, Inc. received $800 mil­ government food aid cargoes must be carried on lion in EE? bonuses, NAEGA member Continental Grain took in $702 million. NAEGA's FrenchU.S.-flag vessels. owned Louis Dreyfus Corp. has received some NAEGA, in addition to working to abolish the $590 million and two Fermzzi companies collected law, known as cargo preference, continually seeks close to $320 million. Holland's Bunge, also a exemptions of the ship-American policy for various NAEGA member, was awarded $132 million, grain cargoes destined for recipient nations. At one among others. time or another, NAEGA has sought cargo preference exemptions for cargoes going to Poland, "We maintain the Export Enhancement Pro­ the Soviet Union, most recently Russia, among gram as a means to maintain our competitiveness others. vis-a-vis the European Community and conse­ Good for Grain Sellers quently so long as [European Community] sub­ Without the requirement to ship on American sidies exist, so too also will our subsidies," said vessels, McCoy believes more grain can be sold, an VIcCoy. NYT: Export Food Aid Abused Continued from page 5 USDA's relationships on food aid contracts "are, by their nature, very close, and usually coopera­ tive, as opposed to 'arms-length' procurement-type relationships." Farmers Not Benefitting companies profited. Four cor­ porations received nearly $1.4 billion, or more than 60 percent, of the $2.3 billion in subsidies dispensed through the Export En­ hancement program, the most generous program, in its first four years," stated the articles. The Export Enhancement Program (EEP) provides a subsidy to the seller of the grain or other product that amounts to the difference be­ tween the U.S. price and the world price. The agricultural export programs of the U^|ed States now favor big corpor^ons, many of which are foreign owned. The New York Times found. "[T]here is little propf that farmers Reprints Available benefit[t]ed from the buildup in A political scientist inter­ export assistance," noted the viewed by The New York Times articles' authors. journalists, Robert,Paarlberg of "[T]here is evidence that big Wellesley College and the Har­ -7' • ./• ^ ^ Foreign Ties of NAEGA Member Groups A partial list follows of the ultimate foreign ownership offhe NAEGA member companies as well as the flag-state of the vessels operated or controlled by NAEGA member companies, their parents and related subsidiaries. It is likely that this list is by no means complete as large commercial interests such as the ones named here generally try to keep information such as this out of the public eye. act that would further increase the massive subsidy of taxpayer monies going to agricultural interests NAEGA Members, (now at more than $70 billion per year). Directors, Officers Responding to an inquiry from Congressman Wayne Allard (R-Colo.) at the June 17 House Bunge Corporation Foreign Agriculture and Hunger Subcommittee Mitsui Grain Corp. hearing, McCoy stated why, from his perspective, foreign shipping is a "more suitable" alternative to U.S.-flag ships. "In general, the foreign vessel would be more suitable because it would be cheaper, and so there­ fore the customer (a foreign country) could maxi­ mize his opportunity to import grain, if that is his purpose," McCoy said. He added, "[The customer] Con Agra Grain Corp. can buy more grain if he pays less on transporta­ Cargill, Inc. tion." Continental Grain, Inc. . Continued from page 5 / V"- Nation of Ultimate Ownership/Control Flag States Of Ships The Netherlands Y Japan Japariy Panama Vanuatu Hong Kong Liberia Singapore Myanmar (Burma) Cyprus Marshall Islands . V Liberia Mexico Antigua & Barbuda Panama Cyprus India Liberia ' ~ r' ' Archer Daniels Midland Co. Ireland J. Aron & Company Louis Dreyfus Corporation France Tradigrain, Inc. Switzerland France Philippines Liberia Hong Kong The Andersons Central States Enterprises Elders Grain, Inc. Australia |v Alliance Grain, Inc. Central Soya Company, Inc. Italy Feruzzi USA, Inc. Italy " Interstate Grain Corp. • Italy Bahamas Cyprus Panama Italgrani USA, Inc. Italy Maple Leaf Mills Inc. Canada Mitsubishi International Corp. Japan Japan Panama Philippines • / Liberia Pasternak Baum & Co., Inc. James Richardson & Sons, Ltd Canada SGS Control Services, Inc. Switzerland Tidewater Grain Company Marubeni America Corporation Japan Oriac International Canada Richco Grain Ltd Switzerland Panama . Cayman Islands Liberia Japan Liberia Panama Singapore Nonvay (1) Greece United Kingdom Spantrade, Inc. Toymenka (America) Inc. Japan Woodhouse Corporation United Kingdom C. Itoh & Co. (America) Inc. Japan Zen^Noh Unico American Corp. Japan vard Center for International Af­ Alabama State Docks fairs, noted that the export sub­ Gamac Grain Company sidies were ineffective. "In the Alfred C. Toepfer European (2) case of wheat, for example, the- International Inc. government could provide a I sranicorp, Inc. France greater benefit to wheat farmers Union Equity Coop. Exchange at lower cost to the taxpayers if it ^ort of Corpus Christi simply purchased the surplus wheat and burned it," Paarlberg told the paper. Reprints of these articles, printed with permission of The New York Times, are available from the Seafarers LOG office. Anyone interested in obtaining a copy should address a request to the Seafarers LOG-, 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. 7 Singapore (1) Ships fly the flag of Norway but are registered with the nation's second registry, a device which allows the shipowner flag-of-convenience-like terms with the label of a traditional mar[fime nation. (2) Toepfer is a amalgam of cooperatives in Germany, the Netherlands, Canada, France and the United states. Source; NAEGA's membership, directors and officers are reported on NAEGA's An­ nual Report for Foreign and Domestic Corporations, filed with the Govemment of the District of Columbia. Foreign ownership data is collected from business peri­ odicals, newspaper reports and business directories. Ties to ships operated under foreign registries is compiled from directories, articles in periodicals from around the world and govemment filings. •f.M • �8 MOVEMRER1993 SEAFARERSLOG a-,' -^fS' A The Caribbean Responder l)egins boom-laying operations during a recent drill off St. Croix. m-0 :' Releasing the lines on the Borinquen is AB Jorge L. Borges. I# n AB Jose Guevara fights rain as he prepares to toss lines onto the Borinquen. Lending a hand as the Crowley tug ties up is Engineer Carlos Rodriguez. " J.-. To be prepared in the event an oil spill ever occurs, SIIJ crewmembers aboard Crowley tug­ boats are practicing containment procedures with fellow Seafarers on board the CanT^ftean Responder. ... Santurce Port Agent Steve Ruiz joined the crew of the tug Borinquen in a drill off St. Croix in September. "The session went very well," Ruiz told the Seafarers LOG. "The crews worked very well with each other and all learned from the experience." The Caribbean Responder, one of 16 Marine Spill Response Corporation vessels located along the U.S. coastline as well as Hawaii and St. Croix, served as the lead vessel in the prac­ tice—the same position it would hold in a real accident. The Crowley tugs, along with the Hess I Marine's Limetree Bay, crewed by members of | the SIU of Puerto Rico, assisted in laying booms and capturing the imaginary oil. The tug Dorac/o assists the Caribbean Responder Ruiz noted such drills will take place on a during the oil spill drill. reguiar basis to keep Seafarers up-to-date on containment techniques. SlU-crewed tugboats work with the Caribbean Responder to stretch containment booms. LEI^: Standing by on the BorinlA quen to take a line from a Responder assist boat are (left to right) AB Jorge Borges, AB Jose Guevara and Engineer Carlos Rodriguez. RIGHT: Capt. Hector A Ayala (white shirt) 3^-- - aligns the Dorado as Engineer Alfredo Gon­ zalez (left), OS Angel Sanchez and AB Felix Guilar stand by. ' The crew of the CaribbeanResponderincludes (from left, seated) Oiler Marc Aloisio, Asst. Eng. Gary M. Stetson, Cook Richard Griffith, (standing) AB Elizabeth A. Mark, Taking part m the drill Mate Bruce Fizell, Mate Mark C. Patterson and Captain o"]. James Clifford. Heading for the Dorado galley is Cook Carmelo Feliciano. Capt. Manuel Quinones handles Borin­ quen papery/ork. Monitoring from the Bor/nquenbridge is Mate Kevin Foss. Borinquen crewmembers grab a quick cup of soup prepared by Cook Jose Nunez. �. vv.' • •a;?'-; •'. •••" NOVEMBER 1993 SEAFARERS LOG 9 A National Health Problem IB Precautionary Memures to Be InsBtuted by SIU til ifl^ In order to protect the safety and health of union members and their families, the Seafarers Inter­ national Union—Atlantic.Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District and the Seafarers Welfare Plan are instituting a new program to tackle what is becoming a nation­ al health problem—the reemergence of tuberculosis (TB). The Seafarers program, which will begin in January 1994, is designed to accumulate data in order to research effects on Seafarers of the now more prevelant disease. The program will also, through a painless skin test, identify if Seafarers have been exposed to TB. The goal of the Seafarers program is to protect its members from the dis­ ease by testing for the unlikely event of some exposure to TB germs. We are basically beginning this TB control program to deter­ mine if tuberculosis is a problem for Seafarers and if so to imple­ ment a program to diagnose and control the disease," Dr. Kenneth Miller, director of the Seafarers Welfare Plan medical depart­ ment, told a reporter from the Seafarers LOG. reported tuberculosis in the ease, such as clothing, bedding, the size of a pencil eraser or big­ United States than would have toilet seats, showers, glasses, ger appears on the arm where the occurred had the incidence of TB eating materials or any other tuberculin was placed. This continued declining a^ it did items they have touched. means that the person may have through 1985. Most people who breathe in been exposed and may require TB had largely been the bacteria do not become in­ treatment to avoid getting the full eliminated in the U.S. due to im­ fected when exposed to TB. Of disease at a later time. This provements in living conditions those who do, most do not and effective dmg care. Where it develop the active disease but the preventive treatment takes at least had once been the leading cause germs can lie dormant in the cells six months to a year to kill all the of death in the U.S., after 1900TB lining the lungs where the body tuberculosis germs. A person may The Disease Returns steadily declined as a terminal ill­ may store them. The body's im­ continue to have TB bacteria in Tuberculosis, inactive for a ness and fewer and fewer cases mune system traps the bacteria his or her body unless eliminated number of years in the United were reported. with special germ fighters. From with the proper medication. States, is on the rise once again. this point on, a lifelong balance Importance for Seafarers Reasons for Return Since 1985, the number of between the infection and the "Because Seafarers live in There are many reasons for reported cases of TB has in­ human body's defense against the close quarters and deal with the this change according to the Na­ creased. The Centers for Disease infection continues. An in­ Control and Prevention (CDC), a tional Institute of Allergy and In­ dividual who has dormant TB same people day in and day out for many months at a time, the federal agency involved in re­ fectious Diseases (NIAID), bacteria in his or her lungs is not SIU determined that this TB re­ federal health agency involved in search for the control and preven­ contagious. Only those with ac­ tion of diseases, has estimated the research and development of tive TB who remain untreated are search and control program is necessary. In 1995, we will ex­ that from 1985 through 1991 guidelines for treatment of infec­ capable of infecting others. amine the information collected tious diseases. there were 39,000 mpre cases of and determine if tuberculosis is of importance of Test Causes cited by the agency for significant concern for TB's revival include the emer­ "TB screening is necessary to Seafarers," noted Dr. Miller. gence of drag-resistant strains of determine if an individual has The program will require that the organism causing the disease, been exposed to the tuberculosis increased immigration to the U.S. germ. Only ten percent of those Seafarers participate in the of people from countries with a exposed will become infected screening program at the time of high incidence of the disease, and with the full blown disease while their annual medical examina­ The Clinton administration last month unveiled a program in­ transmission among persons in in most other cases the germs tion. The TB screening will con­ tended to assist U.S. shipyards in converting from defense to com­ crowded living environments. remain dormant in the cells. If we sist of a simple questionnaire mercial work. It includes a plan to seek elimination of shipyard Researchers also state that the find out that a person has been (which will include such questions subsidies worldwide. current resurgence of the disease exposed, it is very treatable with The program would provide for $3 billion in ship construction can be attributed to the growth of existing antibiotics and may as age, place of birth and places of through loan guarantees, and a five-year conversion program to fund poverty and homelessness and an prevent any chance of active travel, as well as family and per­ research and development projects in domestic shipyards. In addi­ increase in numbers of peole con­ tuberculosis developing," ex­ sonal history of tuberculosis) and the painless TB skin test. tion, federal agencies would eliminate unnecessary regulations and gregating in one dweUing, such as plained Dr. Miller. would enhance export promotion and marketing. SIU Takes the Lead prisons, shelters and nursing Miller noted it is important to The White House report, entitled "Strengthening America's homes. The SIU medical department understand that TB germs are not Shipyards: A Plan for Competing in the Intemational Market," cites is moving rapidly to deal with any transmitted through casual con­ What is Tuberculosis? statistics from the Maritime Administration (MarAd) that estimate potential threat the member­ TB is a disease spread by tact. A person must be in close ship through to 7,300 to 9,900 large, ocean-going ships will be built for the intema­ precautionary tional commercial market between 1992 and 2001, with most of the germs called tubercle bacilli (a contact for a long period of time measures such as the skin test, work taking place after 1996. "The administration's five-part plan is species of rod-shaped bacteria) with an infected individual to be­ early detection and treatment as intended to assist efforts already underway within the industry to that can float in the air. The germs come affected by the germ. He well as the collection of data to compete internationally^" the report says. "It is a transitional pro­ are spread if a person infected stressed that even in this case, better analyze any trends or cir­ gram, consistent with federal assistance to other industries seelang with TB of the lungs coughs or only 10 percent will go on to cumstances relating to Seafarers sneezes into the air. The TB bac­ develop active tuberculosis. to convert from defense to civilian markets." and the disease. The report was completed and approved by the president in teria are so tiny that they dry out "It is very important for To Determine Infection response to part of the National Defense Authorization Act of 1993. and float on air currents for long Seafarers to participate in the TB A painless skin test on the arm Legislation for the actions called for in the report will be submitted periods in an enclosed space. is the only way to tell if a person control screening program so that to the appropriate committees of Cohgress. According to the American las been exposed to the germs we can determine if tuberculosis Following are titles and summaries of each part of the plan: Lung Association, a private associated with tuberculosis. A is a significant problem for bur Ensuring Fair International Competition. The U.S. govemment health organization that provides small needle is used to put a test­ membership. In doing so, we can has drafted and submitted a comprehensive proposal to end foreign general information to the public be active in identifying and con­ shipbuilding subsidies, effective January 1,1995, to the Organization on issues of respiratoiy health, ing material, called tuberculin, trolling TB exposure before for Economic and Cooperative Development. "Subsidies provided tuberculosis is predominantly an under the skin. In 48-72 hours, the serious infections develop," by foreign governments to their shipbuilding industries, which artifi­ airbome disease. TB germs are test on the forearm is examined to Miller concluded. cially lower prices, must be ended so that there is a tmly level playing not likely to be transmitted determine if there is a reaction to Future issues of the Seafarers field on which to compete," states the report. LOG will continue to report on through personal items belonging the disease. (Since the Reagan administration eliminated funding for the con- to those individuals with the dis­ The test is positive if a bump the Seafarers TB program. stmction differential subsidy [CDS] in 1981, fewer than a dozen ocean-going, commercial ships vessels have been built in U.S. yards. CDS underwrote the difference between the price of U.S.-built and foreign-built ships. When the differential rose, so did the average subsidy.) Improving Competitiveness. The Department of Defense, through its Advanced Research Projects Agency, will share the costs Continued from page 2 Rep. Gerry Studds (D-Mass.), bureaucratic reasons wish to dis­ of industry-initiated research and development projects by matching chairman of the committee, has pose of the American merchant funds from the industry for such work. indicated the committee will offer marine and rely entirely on Eliminating Unnecessary Government Regulation. All govem­ citizens' organizations; shipping an amendment when H.R. 2151 is foreign-flag companies, vessels, ment agencies will review and revise or eliminate any regulations companies active in ocean-going. on the floor. The amendment will ai)d mariners. Daily our industry that "impose unnecessary burdens on the shipbuilding industry." The Great Lakes and domestic com­ include "an overall 10-year is bombarded with contradictory report lists as "major activities" the standardization of international merce; maritimii^ unions repre­ authorization level, which we ex­ messages from Administration construction standards by the U.S. Coast Guard, acquisition reform senting seamen and boatmen; and pect to be in line with the sources. . . . Opponents of the within the Department of Defense, and updating Occupational Safety shipyards. Concemed about ef­ administration's views," Studds U.S.-flag fleet within the Ad­ forts by others to open domestic and Health Administration standards. recently told the Journal of Com­ ministration have been permitted Financing Ship Sales Through title XI Loan Guarantees. Title commerce to foreign interests, merce. to propose the termination of XI currently provides U.S. buyers of ships built in U.S. yards with the coalition is seeking a U.S. U.S.-flag preference for govem­ Meanwhile, in the wake of at­ loan guarantees. The program calls for continuation of those guaran­ maritime policy consistent with tacks on domestic shipping laws, ment cargoes and to demand that tees, plus extending similar coverage to foreign buyers, in order to the interests of the nation. and in the absence to date of a support for a new program for one Unanimous Support encourage foreign carriers to build in U.S. yards. maritime policy proposal from segment of the industry be paid (Under Title XI, U.S. buyers of American-built vessels may obtain H.R. 2151, reported unani­ the White House, the United for by terminating a totally unre­ guarantees for long-term loans at fixed rates, for as much as 75 mously to the full House by the States Maritime Coalition has lated program that largely percent of the loan amount.) Merchant Marine and Fisheries urged President Clinton to reaf­ benefits another segment of the Assisting Intemational Marketing. The report indicates that ex­ Committee, would provide U.S.- firm his commitment to the con­ U.S. fleet. Either proposal would isting organizations such as the U.S. Foreign Commercial Service, flag vessel owners annual pay­ tinued existence of a strong, lead, without question, to the American embassy personnel and MarAd will be used to assist U.S. ments of $2.1 million per year, competitive maritime industry in destmction of the fleet and the shipyards in their intemational marketing efforts and "to facilitate per vessel during a 10-year period the U.S. United States maritime industry." cooperative arrangements and alliances between U.S. and foreign for ships enrolled in a maritime A recent letter from the coali­ The coalition's letter con­ security fleet. The bill also calls tion to the president read in part: cludes, "We strongly urge that the yards." The report's annex notes that several independent sources agree for other payments to assist "Yoqr commitment is being cburse you have chosen— that demand for new vessels in the '90s will result mostly from the American shipyards in competing deliberately undercut by Ad­ reforming, revitalizing, and need to replace existing vessels, rather than from increased trade in commercial markets with ministration officials who for rebuilding the U.S. fleet—be foreign yards. volume. philosophical, budgetary and corhmunicated clearly." /• White House Announces II.S. Shipyard Support •i: Congress, President Urged to Back Legislation for Maritime Revitaiization • \ -'^ ••I''; »'• • M;: .-T " �10 NOVEMRER1993 SEAFARERS LOG Luedtke and Zenith Seafarers Ratify New Three-Year Accord SWMS.. Great Lakes Seafarers who sail aboard Luedtke Engineering and Zenith Dredge vessels recent­ ly ratified a new three-year con­ tract with the companies. The new pacts, which took ef­ fect September 20, include yearly wage increases throughout the life of the contract as well as expanded medical benefit coverage. The agreement also maintains all benefits achieved in previous collective bargain­ ing agreements. Seafarers ratified the new con­ tract by casting votes on their ves­ sels and at various job sites throughout the Great Lakes region. The SlU-crewed vessels are responsible for dredge and marine construction work along the lakes. A total of six negotiating ses­ spring and summer. sions were held in Frankfort, Luedtke Engineering is based Mich., Erie, Pa., Green Bay, Wis. in Frankfort and Zenith Dredge is and Algonac, Mich, during the from Duluth, Minn. Discussing the new SIU contract for licensed personnal aboard the Alton Belle Casino are (left to right) Captain John Mosele, First Mate Dave Wendle, Captain Ralph Hawkins, Relief Mate Carl Hinner Jr. and Relief Captain Jerry Wendle. A Luedtke Engineeering dredge sails along the Cuyahoga River. QMED Greg Eastwood Goes Country While some crewmembers may read books or write letters during their off-duty time aboard ship, a New Jersey Seafarer has found a special way to express his feelings when he is away from family and friends. QMED Greg Eastwood passes these in-be­ tween times by writing lyrics to later accompany music. "About half of my music is written while I am aboard a ship. There are many ways to pass the time while at sea, arid there is also a lot of time to think. Different people do different things, but I happen to write my thoughts down and put them into songs," the 36-year old mariner told a reporter from the Seafarers LOG. Switches from Rock to Country Eastwood began singing rock-and-roll ap­ proximately 14 years ago, but in the late '80s he decided it was not the musical route he wanted to take. "I couldn't find a place in rock-and-roll so I switched to country. It comes more naturally for me, and in the past few years I have found that people agree," he said. After serving several years in the U.S. Navy and briefly working as a roofing and siding sub­ contractor, he joined the SIU in 1990 in the port of Philadelphia and continued to advance his musical ambitions while at sea and on shore. "I already had my merchant mariner docu­ ment, so I thought I'd look into getting Work on a ship. Fortunately it came through. I love the travel and the great opportunities offered by the SIU to advance and educate myself. The things that I have learned because of the union will always benefit me," said Eastwood. QMED Greg Eastwood has performed for trainees and upgraders at Piney Point as well as for fellow crewmembers while at sea. . ' • . •/. In 1991 he upgraded to oiler at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, Md., and in 1992 he returned for the QMED course. While advancing his skills, he performed for the trainees in the school's auditorium. "It is a great place, and they all really seemed to like my music," the QMED recalled. By Popular Request On all of the ships Eastwood has sailed, he has become a popular fixture of music and fellow­ ship. Many times crewmembers have asked him to play; some have even provided suggestions for new songs. He has written songs about sailing and the sea, but most of his music is created from heart-felt emotions. "I don't just sit down and write a song; I must be experiencing some type of an emotion and go on my very individual feelings. Singing is a type of therapy for me where something inside needs to get out and be heard. For me that voice comes out in my music," he said. More and more people began to tell Eastwood that he had legitimate talent as a singer and musician. "I thought that maybe it was time I put something together. I had people tell me I was good, but they were just ordinary people like my friends and family. I wanted to see if others in the general public thought so," he said. "I must say that my crewmembers at sea did inspire me to reach higher. They really enjoyed my music while on the ship," Eastwood added. He decided to make a demonstration tape and send it out to people in the music industry begin­ ning with local radio stations. He noted he is making connections, and a small radio station (WNJC 1360 AM) near his Turnersville, N.J. home currently plays a few of his songs. "I also sent a tape to Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville record company in New Orleans and told him I was a sailor in the SIU. Hopefully I will hear something soon. I figured if I ship out, I will be able to see how the response goes," Eastwood noted. He also said he met some people at a bluegrass festival this summer who are send­ ing his tape to Sony Records. Inspired by the Seafaring Life The words of Eastwood's songs speak of saying goodbye and feelings of loneliness. One of his songs in particular, "Another Goodbye" recalls the heartfelt feelings the Seafarer ex­ periences as he says goodbye to his children before signing on a ship. "Time at sea inspired me to begin writing, and there is something sad about a lot of my songs. I guess it comes from having so much time to think about my three young boys who I am so far away from while at sea," Eastwood noted. He recently signed off the OMI Willamette after a three-month voyage to Odessa, Ukraine. "Writing and singing is a labor of love for me, and I will always have my guitar and singing as a way to vent my feelings, even if I never get any further in the big music industry," he concluded. Eastwood said he plans to continue writing while at sea and recording while on shore. •. . •' Alton Belle Officers Ammnre Contract Officers aboard theA/ton Belle by the Seafarers. They approved 11 Riverboat Casino in Alton, III. a contract later in the year after [lave approved a three-year con­ forming a bargaining committee tract that provides wage increases, which negotiated the pact. The original Alton Belle, which improved working conditions and was designed to look like an oldbetter vacation benefits. The new pact covers the cap­ fashioned Mississippi paddlewheel tains, mates and chief engineers riverboat, was taken out of service who, earlier in the year, organized when the Alton Belle 11 arrived in themselves and elected to be rep­ town in June of this year. resented by the Seafarers. The Alton Belle II docks at the Representatives for the union SlU-crewed A/ton Landing, a twoand the company held four deck barge featuring the Piasa negotiating sessions in Alton and House restaurant, buffet and bar for Detroit. Delegates to the talks passengers to use before and after from the newly organized officers cruises. It also includes a snackbar, included Captain Ralph Haw­ cocktail lounge, gift shops and kins and Chief Engineer Jack guest services. Norris. The riverboat cruise takes 90 The SIU already represents minutes as the vessel sails six other crewmembers aboard the miles up the Mississippi River riverboat casino. Deckhands, along the Illinois shoreline, then food and beverage service returns to Alton, which is located employees, galley workers, ticket 20 miles north of St. Louis. salespeople, reservationists, Th& Alton Belle His fitted with housekeepers, cashiers and main­ 650 slot machines, including tenance workers organized in video poker and video keno, 29 1991 when the Alton Belle went blackjack tables, four craps into service. Those members of tables, two roulette wheels and the crew chose to be represented one Big Six wheel. G&H Pact Endorsed SIU boatmen sailing aboard G&H tugboats along the Texas coast of the Gulf of Mexico have overwhelmingly approved a new three-year contract with the com­ pany. Effective October I, the agree­ ment covers improvements in pension benefits as well as ex­ panded health coverage. The boatmen also will receive a wage increase each of the three years covered by the contract. Outpatient medical care, which is available to spouses and dependants of Seafarers who crew the G&H tugboats, has been greatly expanded by the new ac­ cord. A total of 28 G&H company tugs that work the Houston, Gal­ veston, Freeport and Corpus Christi areas are covered by the new pact. Representatives for the SIU and the Texas-based company held 10 negotiating sessions in both Houston and Galveston beginning late this summer. Delegates to the talks included Captain Rob Arthur, Chief En­ gineer D. Dorsett, and AB Ray Keith representing the Houston, Galveston and Freeport crew­ members and Captain Randy Yeager representing Corpus Christi members. Voting by SIU members took place aboard vessels in Houston, Galveston and Freeport and on a dock in Corpus Christi. The SlU-crewed tugboats do general harbor work and assist various types of tankers, containerships, general cargo and freightships into or out of ports in the Texas Gulf area. The Juno is one of the SlU-crewed G&H tugs covered by the new three-year agreement. . \ I I •r I • I Li �••-M: mmmER ma SEAFARERS L06 11 Assessing Industry Needs, inland Greup Plans Ceurses Representatives from inland your eyes. The smoke is non-toxic mitting some of the required companies last month met with and non-irritating, but it allows us paperwork. Alioto also reminded SIU officials at the Paul Hall Cen­ to practice emergency response the officials that the school's ter for Maritime Training and under realistic conditions." trainee program is available to in­ Education in Piney Point, Md. for Cummings also mentioned, as land members. an in-depth discussion of the an example of the school's ability Director of Vocational Educa­ industry's training needs, as well and willingness to work with tion Jim Shaffer discussed and dis­ as a review of the curriculum SlU-contracted companies, the tributed information on Coast available for Seafarers sailing on training provided for employees Guard regulations, a report on tugs and tows. The meeting was aboard the Delta Queen and the revisions to the Standards of Train­ part of an ongoing effort that Mississippi Queen, two passenger ing, Certification and Watchkeepbegan last year to fine-tune the riverboats operated by the Delta ing Convention of the United Paul Hall Center's Lundeberg As part of an ongoing effort to ensure Inland members' training needs CJueen Steamboat Co. Several Nations International Maritime Or­ met, company officials confer with representatives of the SIU and School curriculum for inland are times each year, Cummings and ganization (which eventually will the Paul Hall Center. boatmen. Instructor John Smith conduct effect training requirem^ts in die The group, which included a Familiarization; General Plant hazmat programs exceed the new firefighting and first aid courses U.S.), outlines of the school's oil representative from the U.S. Maintenance; Diesel Engine requirements set forth by DOT. while the vessels are sailing. spill and hazmat courses, a sample Coast Guard, also touched on the Maintenance; Electrical Main­ (See page 28 of the October 1993 "letter of service" required from 'Invaluable Training' state of the maritime industry in tenance; Hydraulics; Welding; issue of the Seafarers LOG for companies prior to members' taking general and the formation of the and Able Bodied Seaman/ details about the new rule.) "It's invaluable," said David Coast Guaid exams and more. United States Maritime Coali­ Tankerman. Also available are a Instructor Byran Cummings Kish, a vice president of the com­ Additionally, the group tion, a diverse organization which variety of hazardous materials discussed existing and plann^ pany. "The fact that our people reviewed the minutes of the In­ is countering efforts to allow (hazmat) classes, from an 8-hour safety courses. He explained the train with the equipment they land Advisory Board Subcom­ foreign interests to enter the familiarization course to a 48- use of state-of-the-art training would use in an emergency is a mittee meeting from last March. hour "Incident Conimahdef equipment such as a smoke bonus." domestic shipping trades. Companies represented at the The inland group also was ad­ meeting include Maritrans, Ex­ "We have some battles ahead, course which teaches a student machine "that would fill up this but we are very optimistic," SIU how to coordinate all aspects of a (conference) room in about two dressed by Director of Admis­ press Marine, Delta Queen, Great Executive Vice President Joseph hazardous materials cleanup. minutes, to the point where you sions Dan Alioto, who reviewed Lakes Towing, Marine Towing Stan Latka of Express Marine, wouldn't be able to see your hand admissions procedures, including and Transportation, Moran Ser­ Sacco said in opening the October 20 meeting."We are looking to the Inc. was one of several repre­ even if you held it six inches from Coast Guard deadlines for sub­ vice Corp. and Allied Towing. future, and we will continue to pro­ sentatives who conveyed their vide top-notch training for our satisfaction with the special cour­ members, whether they sail inland, ses conducted at the Paul Hall deep sea or on the Great Lakes." Center. "It has really worked out During the past year, the Lun­ well, and we appreciate deberg School has provided spe­ everyone's help," he said. cial courses for hundreds of Everyone at the school has been inland members who are terrific, and our employees Six Seafarers who sail aboarc Seafarers while at the same time Qne of Glover's classmates, employed by the companies rep­ benefit from the training." Maritrans tugboats in the accommodating their work George Davis, earned his "Whenever we have a training Philadelphia area recently schedules. resented at the recent meeting. tankerman's endorsement earlier Such courses are designed with need, the school is very respon­ upgraded to an able-bodied seaman "It was very beneficial,"stated this year after completing another careful consideration of each sive and they get the job done in (AB) rating by completing a spe­ specially designed course at the company's unique needs and of very little time," added John cial course at the Paul Hall Center Frank Glover, 26. 'The rules-of- Paul Hall Center. 'To be honest, I the-road section was outstanding. Burns of Maritrans, Inc. "This has members' work schedules. for Maritime Training and Educa­ I know I'll be in the wheelhouse, was a little hesitant about coming While emphasizing that jrovided our employees with a tion in Piney Point, Md. so I have to understand the here the first time. But after I saw flexibility, instractors presented )roader skill base, which only can The three-week course in­ (navigation) signals and defini­ how things are done here, I really outlines of the courses available help them and us down the road." cluded classroom and hands-on tions and recognize the shapes of looked forward to coming back," to the inland industry. They said the 48-year-old Davis. New Hazmat Reg training in deck seamanship, different boats." answered questions and ex­ Bill Eglinton, director of cargo handling, navigation, An SIU member for the past 10 changed ideas with the company Glover joined the SIU tworepresentatives in attendance quality assurance at the Paul Hall lifeboat operations, firefighting and-a-half years ago, when he years, Davis sails aboard the tug regarding scheduling, class size Center, reviewed a new Depart­ and other emergency procedures, first began working for Maritrans. Roanoke. He described the train­ ment of Transportation (DOT) plus the study of various U.S. The AB course marked his first ing available at the Lundeberg and content and more. regulation which affects training Coast Guard regulations. All courses include plenty of time studying at the Seafarers School as "interesting and very requirements for individuals in­ hands-on training. Those avail­ The course, taught by Jim Harry Lundeberg School of thorough. It's one thing to read able include Limited License I, II volved in hazmat transportation. Brown, was designed to meet the Seamanship, and he was not dis­ rules on your own, but in these and III; Engine Room He said the Lundeberg School's training needs of Maritrans appointed. "I would recommend classes you get so much more to anybody who enters this in­ detail. The practical training is dustry, you need to come here," great, too." Joining Davis and Glover in said Glover, who works aboard the tug Voyager II. "I had heard completing the course were Rod­ good things about the school, and ney Bennett, Lonnie Merrell, it was even better than I expected. Michael Morrissey and Jeffrey Seafarers who sail aboard work 20 or so piers assisting the without traveling around the "One of the things 1 really like Swain. Moran Towing tugboats on the vessels. "It makes for quite a busy Maryland, Delaware and Virginia Maritrans operates 35 tugs and Delaware River put in many hard day," said Jim Malone, an SIU peninsula. The tugs occasionally is they teach you what you need 45 barges, as well as several oil to know now, but they also teach hours towing, shifting and dock­ representative from the port of do shifting work in the Baltimore you things that will harbor as well. help you later terminals, on the Eastern ing vessels safely into the port of Philadelphia, who also supplied The union represents the in your career. This school has a Seaboard and in the Gulf of the pictures accompanying this Philadelphia. mates and deckhands who sail lot to offer." Mexico. The SlU-crewed tugs are respon­ article. aboard the five tugs out of the port Although most of the SIUsible for general harbor work and use their 1800 to 3700 horsepower en­ crewed Moran tugs are assigned of Philadelphia. They are the tug­ Expressly for Express Marine gines to bring tankers, container- to and stay in the Delaware River, boats Carolyn, Reedy Point, Cape ships, general cargo and fmit vessels some are^alled upon to assist ves- May, Hawkins Point and Grace in and out of their individual piers. sels to the Chesapeake and Moran. The machinists who wofk Due to the many various car­ Delaware Canal where the ships in the Moran shop on shore are goes coming into port, the tugs can sail to the Chesapeake harbor also SIU members. Tk'aining Deemed 'Beneficial' By Hiaritrans SIU Boatmen •rMyi • y.U--y- Shifting and Docking Vessels Create Busy Schedule for SlU-Crewed Tugs V •• . . /• After assisting a contalnership to Preparing the Grace Aforan for a SIU Machinist Bill Burow is its pier. Deckhand Louis Reves day on the Delaware River is responsible for performing repairs tidSuptheReeofyPo/nf. Deckhand Joe Chupka. aboard the Moran tugs. '• t %y Seafarers from Express Marine who completed a special shiphandling course at the Lundeberg School on August 27 are (from left) Gil Pruitt, Jake Karaczynski (instructor). Mack Keech and James Pruitt. Express Marine, based in Pennsauken, N.J., operates five tugs and barges that move coal up and down the East Coast. vA»ii.sjiwJS ' Jy- yyi /•. y kkf. •• �12 mV£MB£R 1993 XAFARBtSUIG Navy's Grocery Store Home Afters^B Years in PaciflG ^•r:'. ,7'.- Mi.i ->.••• Members of the SIU's Government Services Division returned the USNS Spica to its home port of Oakland, Calif, for the supply ship's first trip to the continental United States in eight years. The docking was marked with a ceremony involving Military Sealift Command offi­ cials, union representatives and the families of crewmemhers. The Spica, which among its many details provided stores to U.S. Navy vessels during Opera­ tion Desert Shield/Desert Stom, was recognized in a pierside ceremony for its efforts in the Western Pacific, Indian Ocean and Persian Gulf as well as along the East African coast. Taking part in the welcoming celebration were Roy "Buck" Mercer, SIU vice president for government services, and Vince Coss, a union representative. The Government Services Division represents un­ licensed crewmemhers aboard the Spica and the other vessels in the Military Sealift CommandPacific Heet (MSCPAC). Joined Fleet in 1981 The supply ship became part of MSCPAC in 1981. The vessel was designed to be a floating grocery store thatresupplies other ships while they are at sea. Since oining the fleets the Spica has earned a reputation of "doing a good job and being on time for all assignments," according to Cap­ tain Leroy Gill Jr., the ship's original master. The ship and its crew received praise from the chairman of the House Armed Services Commit­ tee. Captain L.M. Pivonka, MSCPAC commander,read a let­ ter from U.S. Representative Ron Dellums (D-Calif.), whose dis­ trict includes the Oakland Naval Supply Station: "It's my pleasure to say 'Well done' to the captain and crew of the USNS Spica. "Its legacy in the Pacific Fleet has led to the Navy's decision to turn additional military supply ships over to the Military Sealift Command," Dellums added. "USNS Spica has proven you can have an effective defense at less Meeting with some of the famiiy memtters and MSCPAC emptpyees who cost to the government." to Oakland, Calif, are (center left) SIU Representative Vince Coss and (center right) SIU Vice President Government Services Roy "Buck" Mercer. Thanked for Support Captain Dan O'Brien, who and see in person many of the serves as the Spied's master, paid people who have given Spica tribute to all who had been in-' their total support the past several volved in the Spica's successful years," O'Brien noted. deployment, "The ship has al­ The vessel remained in Oak­ ways had an outstanding crew, it's always received great support land for less than a week before from MSCPAC headquarters and sailing to a commercial San the families the crew leaves be­ Diego shipyard where it is under­ hind have always given the ship going an overhaul. The supply ship is expected to return to active their utmost support. "It's nice to return to Oakland duty early in 1994. William Handelsman Dies at 75, Former MSTU Organlilng Official William D. Handelsman, a former official with the forerun­ ner of the SIU's Government Services Division, passed away August 27. He was 75 years old. hers by not hindering the free flow of information. The drive paid off in 1964 when an agreement—the first in­ volving the MSTS in the Pacific— was reached. It covered two Honolulu-based missile ships, the Longview and Sunnyvale, as well as four large passenger ships. The pact also enabled the union to bargain for the men who are civil service employees on most issues other than wages. "In his organizing efforts, Handelsman left no stone Un­ turned. He was truly a legend in his own time," SIU Vice Presi­ dent Government Services Roy The USNS Spica, crowed by members of the SIU's Government "Buck" Mercer told a reporter Services Division, passes the Oakland-Bay Bridge on its first trip home in eight years. from the Seafarers LOG. U.S. Combat Supply Ship Mars Begins New Life William D. Handelsman When the USNS Mars sailed into Guam in September, the supply ship carried notonly a new name but also a new look. The ship had sailed out of the Western Pacific last year as" the USS Mars. It carried a military crew of 440 sailors. In February, the vessel was turned over to the Military Sealift CommandPacific Fleet (MSCPAC) and it underwent a four-month overhaul in a commercial San Diego shipyard. When the ship was ready to sail again, it carried a much smaller crew—137 civil service mariners whose unlicensed mem­ bers are represented by the SIU's Government Services Division Brother Handelsman joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards (MCS) in 1937 and sailed through World War 11 as a member of die steward department. He even­ tually became director of or­ The USNS Mars prepares to sail on its first voyage as a civilian-crewed supply vessel. ganizing for the Military Sea Transport Union (MSTU) of the operating forces at sea with Pacific for the next two years. It and 37 Navy personnel. Seafarers Intemational Union of Yet, only the name and crew refrigerated stores, dry will operate out of Guam. North America (SIUNA), now size changed. Its mission provisions, technical spare parts, The Military Sea Transport known as the Government Ser­ remained the same: provide general stores, fleet freight and Service—the predecessor of the vices Division. He retired in 1967. mail. When the Mars ^t sail with Military Sealift Command In 1962, Handelsman began an MSCPAC, it carried a supply load (MSC)—began operating in 1949 organizing effort by the MSTU to of 43,000 separate line items. as the single ocean transporta­ represent the unlicensed personnel The Mars is the first of several tion manager for the Defense for the Military Sea Transport Ser­ Navy combat stores ships that Department. vice of the Pacific, now known as will be turned over to MSCPAC In the early 1970s, the Navy the Military Sealift Commandduring the next few years. A study started turning over older NavyPacific Fleet (MSCPAC). conducted by the Center for crewed fleet oilers to MSC. The efforts to organize were a Naval Analysis in 1990 compared Presently, the command operates direct result of the signing of a Navy costs against civilian man­ new and old fleet oilers, supply 1962 executive order by Presi­ ning costs of selected auxiliary ships, fleet tugs, cable and mis­ dent John F. Kennedy. The law ships and showed potential sile-tracking vessels, hospital set forth a managerial-labor rela­ savings of $10 million annually ships, dry cargo vessels and an tions program between the when MSCPAC operated vessels ammunition ship. Approximately civilian crews on the non-com­ like the Mar^. Soon to be part of 120 vessels compose the MSC batant military ships and the the MSCPAC fleet will be the fleet of which 25 are in the Pacific Navy officers on board. The in­ USS San Jose and USS Niagara Fleet and crewed by the SIU^s tent of the order was for Navy Government Services Division management to cooperate with Capt. L.M. Pivonka, commander of MSCPAC, addresses the crew of Falls. The USNS Mars is scheduled members. MSC ships are as­ labor unions who were trying to the USNS Mars—including members of the SIU's Government Ser­ to be deployed in the Western signed ^ound the world. organize the civilian crewmem­ vices Division—before the vessel sailed for Guam. �Nmnai»BER1993 ••, .' ', ;i SEAFAWISLOB 13 •;' .? • . Delegates representing 42 trade unions and 28 port councils from the U.S. and Canada fill the meeting hail for the 20th Biennial Maritime Trades Department Convention. lUW Laum^ws Grassroots Effort to Kem U.S. Fleet Keep the American flag flying on the high seas was a theme of the biennial convention of the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department (MTD), held last month in San Francisco. Delegates to the two-day meeting took home with them in­ formation on a grassroots effort to pass U.S.-flag merchant marine revitalization legislation offered in the U.S. House of Repre­ sentatives. The packages con­ tained a briefing on the bills before Congress, ideas for writin letters to the White House anid Capitol Hill and a fact sheet on both maritime industry review commissions, one recommended by Vice President A1 Gore's Na tional Performance Review (NPR) and the other being con sidered in legislation offered by Senator Ernest Hollings (D-S.C. and Representative William Lipinski (D-Ill.). Convention Supports Clinton Health Reform Delegates to the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department (MTD) Biennial Convention were reminded that the 50-year fight for health care reform has just started with the introduction of a legislative package to Con­ gress by the Clinton administra­ tion. "There is no doubt that this is one of those rare and wonderful moments when someone carrying our message, the message 1^" •,•31^1 that we've Coming from 42 trade unions and 28 port councils that make up the MTD, the delegates listened to speeches from elected officials as well as representatives of the maritime industry and organized labor calling on the Clinton ad­ ministration and Congress to work with the U.S.-flag fleet. Fronts for Foreigners After pointing out that Mexico has hired 70 different American public relations, attorney and consulting firms to advance the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) through Congress, MTD President Michael Sacco told the conven­ tion, "We in maritime know these San Francisco Mayor Frank Jordan tells delegates to the MTD con­ firms only too well. These firms vention that economies of cities like his depend greatly on the jobs front for foreign interests, and in and senrices that are provided by the U.S.-flag merchant fleet. our case, foreign shipping inter­ ests which are drooling over U.S. registries 20 of their vessels. of the leaked material and only maritime trades. Then, an advance copy of called for a commission to review "These are foreign companies that cannot wait to replace U.S. Gore's NPR feport on maritime the government's policy toward ships with foreign-owned, was leaked to the media in the merchant marine with limited foreign-operated, foreign-built August. The document, loaded participation from those directly and foreign-crewed vessels, most with references and quotes from involved in the industry. Members of Congress ad­ of them to be operated under foreign-flag interests, called for the elimination of cargo dressing the convention stressed runaway-flag registers," Sacco preference, the Jones Act and their support for the U.S.-flag added. merchant fleet and their willing­ other legislation which affects the In May, Representative Gerry ness to fight for it. U.S.-flag fleet. Studds (D-Mass.), chairman of "For over 200 years, America Congressional Support the House Merchant Marine and has been a maritime nation," Rep­ Fisheries Committee, introduced The leaked report led to resentative David Bonior (Da series of bills designed to revi­ Hollings' and Lipinski's legisla­ the third ranking talize the U.S.-flag merchant tion calling for a commission to Mich.), Democrat in the House, told the fleet. However, two of the look into the need of the U.S.-flag convention. "If we abandon that nation's largest carriers, Sea- fleet as it pertains to national great tradition now to save a few Land and American President security. But when the NPR was Lines, announced in June their released in September, its Continued on page 16 intention to transfer to foreign maritime section contained none during a joint session of Congress on September 22. In the weeks that followed, the First Lady ap­ peared before various committees in both the House of Repre­ sentatives and the Senate. On Oc­ tober 27, the White House offeree the actual legislation for the pro­ gram to Congress. As outlined before Congress, the plan would provide insurance for all Americans, require all employers to provide health in­ surance for their employees, es­ tablish and enforce through federal or state government cost l ll*' P'oned, often limits on private sector health in­ alone, has surance premiums as well as doc­ suddenly got­ tor and hospital fee limits, ten center prohibit health insurance firms stage and cer­ from refusing to insure an ap­ Gerald Shea tainly wowed plicant because of the all the individual's health condition and politicians in simplify paperwork. "The package that the presi­ Congress," said Gerald Shea, who as head of the AFL-CIO dent has put forward is really Employee Benefits Depahment is comprehenspearheading organized labor's sive one. efforts to pass such legislation. Shea told the Shea told the delegates, com­ convention. posed of members and officials "This is not a from 42 trade unions and 28 port bare bones councils, that he had been work­ package, it's ing regularly with Hillary Rod­ not a basic ham Clinton, the First Lady, and package, it's Jack Otero her staff as she presented the not a mini­ administration's plans to con- mum pack­ ressional panels. "Certainly age, it's not a safety net kind of when you look back to the post- arrangement; this is a comprehen­ World War II period to Harry sive package of benefits." Truman's days, the vast majority Strong Opposition of Americans believed that na­ The delegates were reminded tional health reform was pos­ that despite the fact polls show a sible," Shea said. "But no one majority of Americans favor since Harry Truman has had the adoption of a national health care conviction and the sincerity and policy, opposition to it will be the drive to get this done that Bill strong in Congress. Clinton does." Tom Donahue, AFL-CIO Commitment Is Strong secretary-treasurer, pointed out That conviction was reiterated that groups claiming to represent ay Jack Otero, a former AFL-CIO vice president who now serves as small business already are stating an undersecretary at the Depart­ their interests will be hurt by the ment of Labor in the Clinton ad­ Clinton package. But, he said, ministration. "We believe that we those who say they stand for small must provide proper health care business really do not. As MTD Vice President Willie Zenga listens, MTD or all Americans," Otero said. ^resident Michael Sacco urges delegates to defeat President Clinton presented Continued on page 16 he North American Free Trade Agreement. the outline of his health care plan 9 ' . ^• r; MTD SpaUights NAFTA's Many Flaws, Congressmen Nolo Dangers of Pact •" • 'T' , . • ' •! L V • If enacted, the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) would destroy U.S. jobs and wages, erode the American standard of living and lead to further exploitation of Mexican workers. Those were some of the points about NAFTA voiced last month by officials representing the 42 unions of the Maritime Trades Department (MTD), as well as by several congressmen who spoke at the MTD's biennial convention in San Francisco. Delegates to the convention passed a resolution calling on the Clinton administration to abandon NAFTA, a so-called free trade deal originally negotiated by the Bush administration. Congress is scheduled to cast its first vote on NAFTA on November 17. The SIU and the entire labor movement vigorously oppose NAFTA because its enactment would mean job losses for hundreds of thousands of U.S. citizens. NAFTA also would open the door for abuse of workers' rights and severe damage to the environment. Organized labor is not alone. Reports on television and in newspapers indicate that opposi­ tion to the trade deal is growing as citizens b^ome increasingly aware of NAFTA's details. This is in spite of the fact that pro-NAFTA forces have •i' i:. K. % Continued on page 16 .• J'jf- • / /• 7.I �• ..-•. •VK-> 7 i'-'• --r :'-: - • '; > / 7 ;v • . ' •; i -i' ,-• ,7 ;;; 7'': •7--'':• , •rV--:'y -,;J.*-|-;---»'*^!'-"j^.-ii:.'.-^ii- / 14 H0¥EMRER1993 SEAFARERS LOG ROEEMRERIOOS SEAFARERS LOG 15 P-v-'' Robert Baynes, Plumbers Asst. to President - -M .- 77'i-^7 .' V;.. epresenting 42 trade unions and 28 R port councils, delegates to the 1993 Maritime Trades Department biennial 'v'-' Louie Bravo, Laborers Vice President convention gathered in San Francisco last month to take action on issues affecting union workers and their families. Delegates during the two-day meeting called for the defeat of the North American Free Trade Agreement, revitalization of the U.S.-flag merchant fleet, passage by Congress of legislation to reform health care and to end permanent replacement of striking workers, support for striking coal miners and much more. Speakers at the event included Robert B. McMillen, president of Totem Ocean Trailer Express; U.S. Representatives David Bonior CDMich.), Neil Abercrombie CDHawaii), Elizabeth Purse CD-Ore.) and Tom Lantos CD-Calif.); Labor Undersecretary Jack Otero and representatives from the AFL-CIO, including Secretary-Treasurer Tom Donahue, Legislative Director Robert McGlotten, Employee Benefits Director Gerald Shea and Political Director Richard Walsh, Pictured on these two pages are some of the delegates, speakers and observers who took part in the MTD convention proceedings. Inhn l^allw PracirTant anH Ed Panarello, Jack Caffey, SlU Vice Pres., and! New York MTD Sec.-Treas Ed Cleary, N.Y. AFL-CIO Pres. ' Jerome Joseph, AMO Exec. Vice Pres. Martin Byrne, Ironworkers Assistant to President Jim Norwood, Laborers Sec.-Treas., and Sigurd Lucassen, Carpenters President George McCartney, SlU Vice Pres.^ and H. "Whitey" Disley, MFU President Gunnar Lundeberg, SUP President, and Roy "Buck" Mercer, SlU Vice Pres. George Becker, Steelworkers Vice Pres. I arm riamnootf Car> Rnmnn C^ra\(^w\n7. Rto\/A PrlnAV IIIW Natl Dimntnr AHH Douglas Couttee, UFCW Intl. Vice Pres. Ruben Wheatly, Vice Pres.; Benny Holland, Gen. Vice Pres. and John Baker, Vice Pres., ILA Timothy Brown, President; James Hopkins, Sec.Treas. and Paul Nielsen West Coast V.P., MM&P Traac Gordon Ward, District 1-PCD MEBA Pres. Vera Catalli, Distillery Workers Sec.-Treas. and Guy DeVito. GCIU Sec.-Treas. Dominic Martell, Plasterers President Michel Desjardins, SlU of Canada Sec.-Treas. Ande Abbott, Boilermakers Director Fran Poltier, Paperworkers Vice President William Lucy, AFSCME Sec.-Treas. . , .•;S •. Frank Pecquex, MTD Exec. Sec.-Treas. Ed Modney, Frank Martino, SlU Asst. Sec.-Treas. (Ret.) ICWU President John O'Gara, Gen. Vice Pres., and Joseph Cordery, Gilbert Shepherd, Organizing Dir., and Jimmy Herbert Schiffman, Intl. Vice Pres., HERE Intl. Vice Pres., Glass Molders Rankin, Intl. Vice Pres., Glass Molders James Hatfield, President, and Frank Carter, Sec.-Treas., Glass Molders Willie Baker, UFCW Political Director Charles Marciante, New Jersey AFL-CIO Pres. Robert McKay, AMO Sec.-Treas. Robert Scardelletti, TCU President ./ • s*wi,, Richard Cordtz, SEIU Sec.-Treas, John Bowers, ILA President Ed House, IAM Vice Pres. George Kourpias, IA^^ President Angus "Red" Campbell, SlU Vice Pres. (Ret.) and Angelo Russo, ICWU (Ret.) Joseph Sacco, SlU Exec. Vice Pres. Tom Gleason, Counsel, and Richard Hughes, Gen. Vice Pres., ILA Earl Simpson and Maury Sjoquist, Pres. Canadian Merchant Serv. Guild Bonnie Riley and Frances Brown, MTD Administrative Staff Tom Kelly, Vice Pres., and ^ Michael McKay, President, AMO i£ ,(• • - ,7 :/// '71 \ • • :• :• •; I' '7; V, . • '/7; .-i.' ' * !• Dean Corgey, SlU Vice President • • •: ' A. �• L- 16 HOREMRER1993 SOFARERSLOG MTD Calls for All-Oiit Effort to Back Floet carry its own goods and its own will open up their domestic trades through resolutions to- defeat people in peacetime and in war," if we do, I am not at all surprised," NAFTA as it stahds before Con­ he continued. "Of course they gress, work with the administra­ dollars in the short term, we're Lantos stated. As a mem­ will. U.S. operators would gain tion to pass a national health care going to hurt this nation for ber of both the right to sail from Antwerp to policy and support striker re­ decades to come. We can't afford placement legislation that would the House Ghent in Bel­ that. do away with companies' hiring Merchant gium or Bar­ "We've got to keep our mer­ scabs while the regular workers Marine and celona to Alchant marine strong," Bonior conduct a legal strike. in Fisheries geciras added. "This is a national security Committee Spain. issue." and the Representative Elizabeth "For that, Hons we would Furse (D-Ore.) said, "I am astonished at the people in this Rep. Abercromble Armed Ser- sacrifice jobs vices Com­ in country who the mittee, Representative Neil Hawaii, Rep. Bonior think that international Abercrombie (D-Hawaii) noted, Alaska, trade can "What we want to do is redefine Puerto Rico and Great Lakes grow or na- national security to mean that the trade? The answer is no!" Continued from page 13 have health care," McGlotten t i o n a 1 economic security of the people stated. "And I'm saying that's "The National Federation of Urge Administration's Help defense can of the United States is the primary something that we shouldn't do, In calling on the Clinton ad­ Independent Businessmen is very and that's something that we can­ be strong foundation for our national without the security. And in order to do that, ministration and Congress to busy on this one and they will not do, and certainly you can Bep. Furse. means to we must have a vibrant merchant develop a U.S.-flag merchant continue to be," Donahue noted. make sure that we will not do it "They con­ fleet revitalization program, the — transport marine." MTD delegates urged dirough a tinue to bleed by giving your support (to the goods or military supplies on our Questions Sincerity own ships. I insist thk [fellow about small health care policy)." Joining the call that America resolution that such a package in­ members of Congress] under­ needs a strong U.S.-flag merchant clude a program that would en­ business and Congressional Advocates vessel operating stand that our first line of defense marine and the laws to keep it so hance how they're capabilities essential for the is our maritime industry." going to be was Robert Delegates also heard words of maintenance of the AmericanB. McMillen, hurt by this, support for the program from Sealift and Security flag vessels in international com­ as they claim members of Congress. The chairman of the House In­ president and merce. chief execu­ they're hurt ternational Security Subcommit­ Tom Donahue "I will be in the trenches with tive officer of by every tee, Representative Tom Lantos The delegates sought the ad­ the president and with Hillary other piece of (D-Calif.), asked, "Can you for­ Totem Ocean ministration to keep maritime out get about our sealift capability at Trailer Ex­ of NAFTA and the international governmental legislation that's (Clinton) as we deal with the press. a time when from Bosnia to trade talks taking place for the designed to make things a little phony arguments and the shabby He noted excuses of the people who have Somalia to General Agreement on Tariffs better for people." the Jones Act, RoberLMcMillen only squeezed this system of Cambodia and Trade, adopt a national cargo He continued that factories a 1920 law — health care delivery in seeing to it there is turpolicy to efficiently move both and shops with hundreds of which specifies that only U.S.that every single American— b u 1e n ce government and commercial built, U.S.-crewed and U.S.- freight, fully enforce existing employees cannot claim to be man, woman and child—as a mat­ today in more registered vessels can carry cargo cargo preference laws and issue smdl businesses. "If we're talk­ ter of birth right will have quality, than two between two domestic ports, "is an executive order proclaiming ing about the hairdresser, if we're decent medical care," Repre­ dozen places similar to cabotage laws which the White House's support as an talking about the dry cleaner, sentative Tom Lantos (D-Cdif.) on this exist in virtually every maritime essential ingredient in maritime that's a small businessman," told the convention. planet? nation in the world," McMillen policy and clarify the Gambling Donahue stated. "There is Rep. Lantos advised the delegates. no great na­ Ship Act to give potential Defines Small Business Foiidw Hawaii's Example tion that No Other maritime country in operators of U.S.-flag cruise ves­ If we're talking about someRepresentative Neil doesn't have an industrial base, the world has comparable off­ sels the assurances needed to in­ )ody with 300 employees, that's Abercrombie and there is no great nation that shore or inland water trades. vest in U.S.-flag corporations. doesn't have its own capacity to When I am told other countries Delegates also pledged not a small businessman. That's a (D-Hawaii)' )ig business. Two hundred, a said opposi- , lundred, those are big businesses tion to a na­ with huge payrolls. So, we ought tional health to strip that away, and in the care policy course of the health care debate I can be over­ Abercrombie also explained standards yet," Donahue con­ Continued from page 13 hink we can get a benefit of come by folpoured tens of millions of dollars that Arnerica's current trade tinued. "History tells us that [U.S. trying to make people understand lowing into public-relations and advertis­ surplus with Mexico is mislead­ business] has gone down and ex­ a little more about what is small Hawaii's ex­ Bob McGlotten ing campaigns in favor of the ing. He argued that when pro- ploited Mexican workers, defiled business." ample. He NAFTA forces point to that the environment and done it all to pact. Continuing with the theme said trade "NAFTA supporters are con-, surplus as a reason to follow the advantage of the American through with the trade pact, corporation." that others want trade unionists unionists led the way in support­ veniently ignoring the simple "What they are talking about are MTD President Michael through their contracts to con- ing legislation that gave the truths because they know that if components for maquiladoras Sacco described NAFTA as "a inue paying high health care Aloha State employer-mandated the public knows all the facts, the that will be shipped back to us, get-rich-quick scheme for those rates to cover the costs of those health care coverage in 1974. agreement will crash," House rather than consumer goods for at the top. NAFTA hands over without was Robert McGlotten, Majority Whip David Bonior (D'We've had it for 20 years," America's industrial and AFL-CIO legislative director. Mich.) told the MTD delegates. Mexican people. the congressman announced. In other words, the surplus is manufacturing Jobs to Mexico. It "Mexico has lax environmental There are a number of And we've had it because we in capital goods, not consumer drives down the American stand­ laws, no health and safety laws, a people who are still looking for lad a labor organization that un­ goods. The U.S. is shipping ard of living for the majority of coiruptJudicial system, a minimum us to pay the freight for machinery south to expand the derstood the welfare of our own people who live and work in the wage of 58 cents an hour . . . Just everybody else who doesn't people is what is at stake here." capacity of Mexico's low-wage United States." beckoning American companies to factories to produce consumer move south of the border." goods for sale back in the U.S. Dangers of Runaways Exposed Bonior and others pointed out that Mexico has spared no ex­ Side Agreements Fail pense in hiring lobbyists to sell During last year's presidential NAFTA in the U.S. "They tell us election, Clinton vowed not to NAFTA would help Mexican support NAFTA until it included workers buy our products. Ask side agreements protecting yourself, how are they supposed workers' rights and the environ­ to buy American cars when a ment. week's wages barely will allow His administration negotiated them to buy a set of spark plugs," such agreements, which were said Bonior. "NAFTA is nothing presented recently by U.S. Trade more than a Job-stealing, work- Representative Mickey Kantor. exploiting, community-destroy­ But the side deals "don't im­ ing agreement, and we are going prove the agreement a bit," stated to defeat it!" AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Misleading Trade Surplus Thomas Donahue at the MTD Rep. Neil Abercrombie (D- convention. "It's not good for us, Hawaii) warned thatenactment of and it's not good for Mexicans. "We're being told that if only NAFTA would bring immediate harm to the U.S. cities near we have more American invest­ MTD delegates passed a resolution pointing out that the absence of a strong U.S. fleet would result Mexico's border. "Los Angeles, ment in Mexico, it will raise their in increased marine traffic in U.S. waters of runaway-flag ships. Here, they watch a video on the lack Long Beach and San Diego will living standards. Well, it hasn't of safety procedures aboard runaway-flag vessels worldwide. done a thing to raise their living be a wasteland," he said. Continued from page 13 Labor Support Given For Health Reform Congressmen Warn of NAFTA Dangers �• • ^ 'i SEAFARERS UK imEMBER 1993 Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea SEPTEMBER 16 — OCTOBER 15,1993 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C ••REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A QassB Class C Trip Reliefs DECK DEPARTMENT Port 18 57 57 3 14 New York 18 29 29 8 22 8 5 12 0 Philadelphia 4 2 6 1 1 2 3 20 5 2 11 1 Baltimore 3 17 3 5 0 35 5 20 13 1 Norfolk 18 2 12 11 5 3 25 22 20 18 15 10 3 Mobile 1 39 43 16 2 19 8 21 New Orleans 22 3 29 46 9 51 5: 3 11 23 6 Jacksonville 21 29 59 0 8 49 10 12 ^.17. San Francisco 32 22 34 34 15 0 17 11 Wilmington 20 21 36 9 45 0 7 21 13 23 27 8 Seattle 6 9 11 4 3 6 0 6 6 5 Puerto Rico 26 14 11 2 2 8 5 Honolulu 8 14 ' 3 51 15 35 1-2 - : 6 30 Houston 41 7 27 BII 0 6 0 0 0 0 0 St Louis 11 0 1 0 1 Piney Point •'TIP 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 Algonac 132 465 390 66 18 193 58 172 226 283 Totals ENGINE DEPARTMENT Port 5 43 46 9 14 New York • Qjsm. 25 •; ,t 4 3 : 7 0 . : 0 3 4 1 Philadelphia • a-l'' 16 ^IP2,: , 12 4 7 1 o 2/1' .1paltimore .••:\9::P;,I 16 8 9 3 5 4 • ' 12 5 13 4 Norfolk 17 2 14 3 0 7 11 1 11 8 Mobile 22 12 28 0 3 6 17 8 15 New Orleans 12 4 ¥1; 44 26 r-i 3" 13 2 11 24 -P'P"2'3' • Jacksonville 16 - • 5 39 28 1 • 10 4 4 16 San Francisco 20 11 :--vl:3:; 15 WM:'' 0 .9 C..P,6.: 4 18 Wilmington 15 23 2 24 1 5 10 12 1 16 17 Seattle 3 8 1 3 1 3 5 4 1 5 Puerto Rico 11 8 21 4 8 2 1 3 11 5 Honolulu ^.••' 3 •• 28 24 1 :IP512 17 13 Hpiistoh 21 •p3'\i:pi 0 . 0 0 0 1 1 St Loiiis •• 0 2 17 2:^¥i-:.. 0 0 0 0 0 Piney Point ' -IP,. •|.vlOP:i 0 4 1 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 Algonac 326 74 248 37 19 111 106 43 190 Totals 159 STEWARD DEPARTMENT Port 0 29 22 0 ...PPITS-^^'. • 4 12 New York 4 •:::;-P 0 -..Pll 0 1 1 1 Philadelphia 0 0 4 1 •:.3'-p 0 2 0 Baltimore 0 18 12 3 2 4 5 1 9 6 Norfolk 3 12 10 2 1 2 6 1 4 3 Mobile 16 2 15 2 0 3 8 1 8 New Orleans 7 •1,-1 ,• 16 2 18 1 0 4 2 Jacksonville 10 • 6P 2 21 72 11 0 , 9 25 2 16 San Francisco 38 ,, 1 19 0 13 . 2 7 : 0 Wilmington 13 13 3 41 4 3 10 3 6 19 Seattle 0 6 2 0 0 0 1 0 1 5 Puerto Rico 27 34 22 36 10 18 8 16 18 15 Honolulu 1 13 19 3 0 16 1 9 16 Houston 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 . iMn 1 St Louis :-p-po-" 1 13 4 0 : 1 2 , 0 4 Piney Point 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Algonac 46 204 268 79 15 54 114 28 108 152 Totals ENTRY DEPARTMENT Port 37 89 0 . . 21 25 9 11 41 12 New York 5 7 2 0 2 • 0 1 3 3 2 Philadelphia 0 8 3 0 0 3 0 0 6 2 Baltimore 13 38 8 0 14 4 2 6 18 4 Norfolk 0 30 3 0 0 14 1 . 0 10 2 Mobile 17 40 16 0 6 10 4 6 18 New Orleans 9 11 37 3 0 1 4 •••- 5 5 18 5 Jacksonville 24 51 22 0 0 6 8 5 26 San Francisco 10 12 32 11 0 0 11 • ,4 • 4 18 3 WUmington 8 36 12 0 0 11 7 3 27 9 Seattle 10 15 10 0 0 2 . 2 0 5 3 Puerto Rico 164 86 10 0 67 41 6 95 55 7 Honolulu 7 26 3 0 6 1 3 5 19 3 Houston 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 St. Louis 2 41 1 0 1 17 1 1 33 2 Piney Point 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 2 0 Algonac 536 312 125 0 81 169 52 144 300 73 Totals Totals All 564 1,031 1,531 182 133 527 444 273 610 881 • • •'% • lOtai Kegisicrcu UlCOlia UIC uutm/wi ...W.. .... J—O— .. w j ri . .U •• 'Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at th9 port at the end of last month. A total of I486 jobs were shipped on SIUH»ntracted dc^p sea vessels. Of toe 1.286jobs sh'PlM. Jobs or about 34 percent were taken by "A" seniority members. The rest were fdled by B airi C semon^ people. From September^ to October 15,1993, a total of 182 trip reUef jobs were shipped. Since the tnp relief program began on April 1,1982, a total of 19,676 jobs have been shipped. December1993 & January 1994 Membership Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, Inland Wa^rs Piney Point Monday: December 6; Tuesday, January 4 New York Tuesday: December 7, January 4 Philadelphia Wednesday: December 8, January 5 Baltimore Thursday: December 9, January 6 Norfolk. Thursday: December 9, January 6 Jacksonville Thursday: December 9, January 6 Algonac Friday: December 10, January 7 Houston IP Monday: December 13, January 10 New Orleans ' Tuesday: December 14, January 11 pl| Mobile Wednesday: December 15, January 12 • San Francisco Thursday: December 16, January 13 Wilmington Monday: December 20; Tuesday, January 18* * changed by Martin LudterlQng BirAday holiday Seattle Friday: December 24, January 21 San Juan P. , Thursday: December 9, January 6 PP St.Louls Friday: December 17, January 14 Honoluiu Friday: December 17, January 14 Duluth Wednesday: December 15, January 12 Jersey City Wednesday: December 22, January 19 New Bedford Tuesday: December 21, January 18 Each ports met^g starts at 10:3Ciajn. Personals FORMER SHIPMATES OF VAN E. WARFIELD Following a number of heart attacks. Van E. Warfield, who sailed as bosun from 1946 to 1957, is pretty much home-bound. He mis­ ses his sailing days and would like to hear from some of his old seafaring buddies. Van E. Warfield can be reached at 4902 Anntana Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21206. .-.I ••|;P • P., 3" 'ipP Notices UPCOMING REUNION PLANNED >OR CBI VETERANS Veterans who served in China, Burma and India (CBI) in World War II are invited to a reunion, September 3-8, 1994 in Baltimore, Md. This 47th annual reunion is being or­ ganized by the China-Burma-India Veterans Association, which has more than 7,000 mem­ bers. All CBI veterans are asked to send their name, address and phone number to Homer C. Cooper, 145 Pendleton Drive, Athens, OA 30606 to receive information about the reunion. Be sure to include the name of the CBI unit and locations served overseas. Those unable to attend the Baltimore reunion are asked to contact the association in order to receive information about future national and local programs. ' J.- i 17 • /:• ' I - f T: . '••••- ' "• - \ S" •fP' • •' ^ .t.r? . fiSti �18 HOVEUBER1993 XAFAWtSUK Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes Seafarers International Union Directory SEPTEMBER 16 — OCTOBER 15,1993 CL—Company/Lakes L—^Lakes NF—Non Priority Michael Sacco President John Fay Secretary-Treasurer Joseph Sacco Executive Vice President Augustin Tellez Vice President Collective Bargaining •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP DECK DEPARTMENT 0 33 13 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 15 b STEWARD DEPARimNT 0 8 1 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 George McCartney Vice President West Go 'oast Roy A. "Buck" Mercer Vice President Government Services Jack Caffey Vice President Atlantic Coast Byron Kelley Vice President Lakes and Iihland Waters Dean Coreey Vice President Gulf Coast HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr. Algonac, MI 48001 (313)794-4988 BALTIMORE 1216 E. Baltimore St. Baltimore, MD 21202 (410) 327-4900 DULUTH 705 Medical Arts Building Duluth, MN 55802 (218)722-4110 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St. Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St. Houston, TX 77002 (713)659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St. Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JERSEY CITY 99 Montgomery St. Jersey City, NJ 07302 (201) 435-9424 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy. Mobile, AL 36605 (205)478-0916 NEW BEDFORD 48 Union St. New Bedford, MA 02740 (508) 997-5404 NEW ORLEANS 630 Jackson Ave. New Orleans, LA 70130 (504) 529-7546 NEW YORK 675 Fourth Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718)499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St. Norfolk, VA 23510 (804)622-1892 PHILADELPHIA ••REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP 0 15 4 0 27 7 b 7 0 19 Totals All Departments 0 72 21 0 56 17 0 68 * "Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. ** "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. .• i 14 26 Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters • '•. legion SEPTEMBER 16 — OCTOBER 15,1993 •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Totals All Departments TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Cla^ C ••REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C PECKhEPARt^ Atlantic Coast 0 0 6 Gulf Coast 10 0 16 Lakes & Inland Waters, 23 0 West Coast 0 2 21 Totals 0 41 37 Region •i.;7 • . , lb#"'.. Atlantic Coast 1 Gulf Coast 2 0 1 Lakes & Inland Waters jteLU .•••7:7a 14 West Coast 0 0 6 Totals 17 0 1 Region .V- J-;. Atlantic Coast 0 0 Gulf Coast 0 1 7 774 ,, Lakes & Inland Waters t' 0 ...... 0 ^ West Coast 0 -0 Totals 5 1 9 63 1 3 0 0 40 1 0 8 15 12 34 100 0 58 4 116 0 66 93 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 1 0 0 2 0 0 0 2 6 0 0 . •2 0 0 0 9 0 0 30 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 0 0 4 1 0 2 0 ^ • 7 1 0 4 1 0 3 8 11 47 128 0 74 134 2 0 1 3 0 27 0 70 97 '"""'b"""" 1 7;;i,„o.::7 0 2 0 1 2 0 0 2 1 2 0 7 0 5 12 7 111 : ^7 :()••• ''m- * "Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. ** "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. ^re You Missing Important Mail? In order to ensure that each active member and pensioner receives a copy of the Seafarers LOG each month—as well as other important mail such as W-2 forms, pension and welfare checks and bulletins or notices—your correct home address must be on file with the union. If you have moved recently or feel 9604 S 4 Ct Philadelphia,'PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75 Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 2 West Dixie Highway Dania, FL 33004 (305)921-5661 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St. San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Government Services Division (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave, Stop 161^ Santurce, PR 00907 (809)721-4033 SEATTLE 2505 First Ave. Seattle, WA 98121 (206)441-1960 ST. LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave. St. Louis, MO 63116 (314)752-6500 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave. Imingh CA 90744 Wilmington, (310) 549-4000 / /• / TOTAL SHIPPED Ail Groups QassCL Class L Class NP ; HOME ADDRESS that you are not getting your union mail, please use the form on this page to up­ date your home address. Your home address is your permanent address, and this is where all official union documents will be mailed (unless otherwise specified). If you are getting more than one copy of the LOG delivered to you, if you have changed your address, or if your name or address is misprinted or incomplete, please complete the form and send it to: Seafarers International Union Address Correction Department 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 (PLEASE PRINT) November 1993 I Name. Address I Social Security No. Book No. I Phone No. Active SlU Pensioner Other This will be my permanent address for aii officiai union maiiings. This address shouid remailin in the union fiie uniess otherwise changed by me personaiiy. •' • • ' /'•'i 'f\ (Signed). 7 'I. r/ �NO¥EMBER 1993 SEAFARERS LOG 19 To Our New Pensioners Thanks for a Job Well Done ranks of SIU pensioners Brother Enrique upgraded fre­ increased by two Seafarers last quently at Piney Point. He month. Brother Enrique Gil retired to Meath, Ireland. ended a 24-year career on the ANGELO deep seas while Recertified ROMERO, Bosun Angelo Romero retired 67, joined to shore after sailing the world's the SIU in waterways for 36 years. Brief 1957 in the biographical sketches of port of brothers Gil and Romero fol­ New York. low. A native of Puerto Rico, he completed the DEEP SEA bosun recertificatioh course at ENRIQUE GIL, 66, joined the the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg Seafarers in 1969 in the port of School of Seamanship in 1983. New York. Bom in the Philip­ Brother Romero resides in pines, he sailed as a bosun. Brooklyn, N.Y. The Crew^s Pride Evident Aboard Pres. Jackson Ready to serve another crewmember i,s Chief Cook Steven Sun Scrambling eggs for breakfast is Chief Steward Mohamed Sani. Galley Gang Provides *Toucli of Home' On Board LNG Virgo When sailing halfway around the world, anything that can be SA Paul Russell handles the dish­ done to make Seafarers feel at washing chores on the LNG Virgo. home is appreciated. That is the goal of the steward department on board the LNG Virgo. Led by Steward/Baker Zein Ackman, the galley gang tries to make every meal special for fel­ low crewniembers. "They do a great job on here," Bosun Jack Rhodes told SIU Representative Sal Aquia, who provided the Seafarers LOG with the photographs from the ship. "Through their cooking, they provide a touch of home while we are aboard ship." Catching lunch before returning to his Ackman praised his fellow deck chores is AB Harry Massa. steward department members— Chief Cook Henry Daniels and Steward Assistants Vem Andrews, Paul Russell and Wil­ liam Smalley—for all their hard work. "We do our best to take care of the crew and answer their requests however we can," noted the steward. Among the special touches provided by the galley gang are holiday cookouts, birthday cakes and fresh seafood whenever pos­ sible. "The food on board was fantastic," noted Aquia. The LNG Virgo carries li­ quified natural gas from refineries in Indonesia to ports in Japan. The vessel is operated by Energy Transportation Corpora- Part of the crew that brought the President Jackson out of the shipyard in 1988 is Assistant Cook George Whiting, who said he likes to return to the vessel whenever he can. 1?/^:/' y^i.|r'- V0g>.-v When Assistant Cook George Whiting first climbed the yS.wrt^fr?m^^ s^'yard^n'" 988^^^ I Jackson trom the snipyara m i y»», ne Knew me snip wouia | I r:>>!''''^''-V>TT'. be special, but he did not realize how special. "The first ship1 was on had six people to a room, six lockers for our gear, two sinks and a common bathroom for all of us to share," recalled the galley gang member who began sailing with the Marine Cooks and Stewards 25 years ago. "This ship was something else." The President Jackson, the newest U.S.-flag vessel in the American President Lines (AFL) fleet, features separate quarters for all crewmembers, a gymnasium with a variety of workout equipment, a swimming pool and a large library of videotapes and books. A tour of the vessel reveals the Presi­ dent Jackson is spotless from the engineroom to the galley to the bridge. "Everyone takes pride in her, from the captain on down," Whiting told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG. "1 try to catch a job on her whenever possible." Seafarers crew the containership's steward department while unlicensed members of the Sailors' Union of the Pacific man the deck department, and the Marine Firemen's Union provides engine department personnel. The President Jackson sails every 35 days from the port of Oakland, \^alll. Calif, lU to Yokohama Kobe, Japan; VjaKianU, I UKUllallla and anu ivuuc, japau, Kaohsiung, Rosario prepares to ^ delicious meal. SA Bill Smalley relaxes in the Bosun Jack Rhodes (right) has nothing but crew oraise for for CS anri his hi.s crew. rrew crew lounoe lounge between between meals. meals. praise CS Zein Zein Ar^kman Ackman and ' 1 >• '' •. .'I'. •' m Taiwan; and Hong Kong before returning to San Pedro, Calif. soup and sandwich makes a tasty and filling lunch for and Oakland. I AB Mike Presser. \ mm QMED Randy McKinzie checks out the menu board while in the galley. J x:,- "i • y..'' '.si -•i-.rTT t; �V- 20 N0VEMSER1993 SEAFARERS LOG Crew Agrees: Altair Has Camaraderie, Teamwork Bosun Larry Ambrous says total support from the union, and the best part alwut being aboard I plan to be a member for a long the [/SNS Altair is working with time," said the 33-year-old an outstanding crew. "Honestly, former boiler technician, who you couldn't hand-pick a better also is from Norfolk. Langley agrees with Ambrous ROS (Reduced Operational about morale aboard the Altair, Status) crew than the one we have which is operated by Bay here," Ambrous recently told a Tankers. "We're like a family on reporter from the Seafarers LOG. this ship. Everyone gets along, "They are all excellent people and and the food is fantastic!" good workers, and they always The camaraderie extends be­ want to do a good job." Ambrous is a native of Nor­ tween both the officers and the folk, Va., where the Altair has unlicensed personnel, says AB been in port for the past several Gary Kypke. "The whole time Wiper Ricky Langley says he is months. The bosun, who joined I've worked on this ship, everyone planning to upgrade his skills. the SIU in 1967, notes that he and has worked together well." several other Seafarers from the Chief Electrician Pete Stein Norfolk area have enjoyed work­ echoed those sentiments when he ing so close to home this year said, "I think we have terrific aboard the 50,0(X)-ton fast sealift people here, people who are hard­ vessel. working and easy to work with. However, earlier this year the And I have to commend (Chief Altair ventured quite far from the Cook) Keith Mayer and Virginia port. Manned by a full (Steward/Baker) Emilio Cor­ crew, the vessel provided logistical dova, who really put out great support during Operation Restore food." Hope in Mogadishu, Somalia. Another of the Norfolk area While Ambrous has been a residents. Deck Engineer member of the SIU for many Michael Phillips, has served years. Wiper Ricky Langley is aboard the ship-for several Bosun Larry Ambrous has been a more of a newcomer, having months. "I like the crew, I like my Seafarer since 1967. joined three years ago. But it did work and I enjoy being so close to not take long for the union to home," he stated. from a high-speed containership make a good impression on Mayer also voiced satisfaction into a naval vessel. The conver­ Langley, who signed on the A/totr widi life aboard the Altair, but sion included changing the last April. "I feel I have received added that he plans to upgrade stowage for 35-foot containers to soon at the SIU's Paul Hall Cen­ multi-deck vehicle stowage with ter for Maritime Training and access ramps amidship on both Education in Piney Point, Md. "I sides. upgraded to chief cook last year, and I'm getting ready to go back." The Altair was built 20 years ago. Taken over by the U.S. Navy in 1981, the vessel was converted Chief Cook Keith Mayer prepares lunch for the crew. The USNS Altair, a fast sealift ship, is based in Norfolk, Va. Chief Electrician Pete Stein, Bosun Larry Ambrous, Patrolman David "Scrap Iron" Jones and Deck Engineer Michael Phillips meet in the galley of the USNS Altair. There's plenty to do on deck for Signing a patrolman's report Is AB Gary Kypke. Chief Electrician Pete Stein. Painting on on the deck of the USNS Altair \s AB Philip Perry. Seafarer Boats Sweep Contest of New Bedford Fleet Blessing ••-It '•t-J'if r-A.. 4 'If SlU-crewed fishing boats won first, second and third places in the annual "Best-Dressed Ves­ sel Contest," which is one of the events at the annual seafood fes­ tival at the New Bedford, Mass. State Pier. Winning the first prize of $500 was the FV Cowboy, owned and captained by Firminio V. Pereira; second place (and $250) went to the Praia Da Torreira, w;hose captain and owner is Manuel Marquinhos; while the Luso American I, captained and owned by Jose Fanguelro, garnered $175 for third-place honors. Each crew also was awarded a plaque. SIU Port Agent Henri Fran­ cois said the August festival fea­ tured beautiful weather and a good turnout. It was broadcast live by a local radio station as it is considered a celebration of the fishing industry and its impor­ tance to New Bedford. The family-oriented event featured eight local bands and other entertainers, children's rides. fireworks, demonstrations by two Coast Guard cutters, vendors selling memorabilia, speeches from local dignitaries, and of course plenty of fresh seafood, as well as other cuisine. (The fish and scallops served at the festival were offloaded each morning.) The best-dressed vessel con­ test was followed by blessings from three local clergymen. Celebrates Industry The contest is a kind of waterborne parade for which crews spruce up their boats and crea­ tively decorate them. In all, hundreds of Seafarers and th^ir families from the New Bedford area took part in the three-day festival, which was highlighted by the 24th annual Also participating in the Blessing of the Fleet was the SlU-crewed The SlU-crewed Cowboy won first place in the "Best-Dressed Blessing of the Fleet. Portugal, one of more than a dozen SIU boats at the event. Vessel Contest," part of the three-day festival in New Bedford. . /: �NOVEMBER 1993 9EAFARERSL0G Digest of Ships Meetings The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shiptmard minutes as possible. On occasion, tmrmu^ of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships minutes first are reviewed by the union's contract departmen. Those Issues lequlring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships minutes. The minutes are then for­ warded to the Seafarers LOG. GREEN ISLAND{Waterman Steam ship), July 10—Chairman S. Reed, Secretary J. Reid, Educational Direc­ tor J. Laratta. Chairman posted notice from headquarters regarding contract extension. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Crewmembers asked contracts department to look into additional group term life in­ surance coverage. Crew noted problems with slop chest inventory, company draws and replacement of mattresses. Discussion held on newspaper reports concerning in­ crease of pirate activity in waters near Singapore. M SEA-LAND INTEGRITY (SeaLand Service), July 25—Chairman Jose Ross, Secretary Pedro Laboy, Educational Director Dennis Baker, Engine Delegate W.B. McCants. Secretary asked contracts department to look into pension improvements and benefit increases for members. job well done. Crew reported TV and radio antenna need repair. LIBERTY SUN (Liberty Maritime), August 29—Chairman Jerry Borucki, Secretary F. Washington Sr., Educational Director Gerald Cooper, Deck Delegate Kenneth Moore. Chairman reminded mem­ bers to upgrade at Piney Point and clean rooms and refrigerators before signing off. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Seafarers LOGs received on board ship. Crew reported deck in mess hall and serving area needs repair, and steward department reported refrigerator in mess hall needs repair. Chairman reminded crewmembers to walk cautiously on decks during slippery conditions. Bosun gave vote of Aanks to entire crew for job well done. LNG AQUARIUS (ETC), August 22—Chairman Carlos Pineda, Secretary F. Robertson, Educational SEA-LAND LIBERATOR (SeaDirector W. Fey, Deck Delegate Land Service), July 25—Chairman Bohhy Branham, Engine Delegate Charles Herrera, Secretary G. Wesley Wise, Steward Delegate Thomas, Educational Director E.L. Marty Buck. Chairman explained Ford. Secretary reported good trip. functions of new VCR to crewmem­ Educational director reconunended bers and reminded them to use care­ members pay attention to upgrading fully. He announced Executive Vice schedules at Lundeberg School and President Joseph Sacco and SIU Rep­ current union business. Deck delegate resentative Sal Aquia will meet ship announced beefs will be discussed in Japan to discuss and answer ques­ with boarding patrolman. Steward tions concerning new contract. Educa­ delegate reported good trip without tional director urged members to beefs or disputed OT. No beefs or dis­ upgrade at Lundeberg School. No puted OT reported by engine brofs or disputed OT reported. Cap­ delegate. Next port: Oakland, Calif. tain attended union meeting upon re­ quest of bosun to discuss ETC issues SEA-LAND MARINER (Sea-Land with crewmembers. Chairman Service), July 17—Secretary Mark reminded crew to keep noise down. Scardino, Educational Director Gene Crew gave vote of thanks to galley Speckman, Deck Delegate Arnold gang for job well done and baking of Lopez. Secretary reported on SIU fresh pastries. President Michael Sacco's visit to LNG AQUARIUS(ETC), August Seattle to discuss contract extension and negotiations. Educational director 31—Chairman Carlos Pineda, Secretary F. Robertson, Educational urged members to donate to SPAD Director W. Fey, Deck Delegate and upgrade at Paul Hall Center. Bohhy Branham, Engine Delegate Treasurer stated $120 in ship's movie Wesley Wise, Steward Delegate fund and announced movies are pur­ Marty Buck. Chairman reported chased every tour. Engine delegate smooth sailing this tour with crew reported beef. No beefs or disputed looking forward to Executive Vice OT reported by deck or steward delegates. Electrician asked crewPresident Joseph Sacco's visit No members not to leave exit doors beefs or disputed OT reported. Chair­ open. Crew asked contracts depart­ man reminded crewmembers to keep noise down in crew lounge and not to ment for additional information regarding contract negotiations. Next smoke in crew mess hall during meal hours. port: Rotterdam. Jp-. Delegate Larry Conklin. Chairman announced possible visit from SIU of­ ficial to discuss new contract. Secretary said all members awaiting news concerning contract and en­ couraged eligible crewmembers to upgrade at Piney Point No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Seafarers LOGs distributed. Chairman and crew dis­ cussed excellent meals being prepared by steward department and gave galley gang special note of thanks. Crew asked additional items be stored in slop chest for extra long trips. Next port: Nagoya, Japan.^ keep tidy at all times. Next port: Jack­ sonville, Fla. OVERSEAS NEW ORLEANS (Maritime Overseas), August 31— Chairman M. Zepeda, Secretary M. Flores, Educational Director J. Czonan. Secretary advised new mem­ bers to upgrade sldlls at Paul Hall Center. Crew expressed get well wishes to Chief Cook O. Espinoza who signed off in Port Arthur, Texas. Educational director urged members to upgrade at Piney Point to improve skills. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked contracts department for update on contract negotiations. Crew reported apprecia- QQCL INNOVATION (Sea-Land Service), August 15—Chairman John Bertolino, Secretary Edward Collins, Educational Director Harry Messick, Deck Delegate Douglas Hodges, Engine Delegate Peter Hausmann, Steward Delegate Felix Camacho. Chairman announced payoff in Elizabeth, N.J. He reported crew waiting for more news concern­ ing new Contract. Secretary advised members to upgrade skills at Lun­ deberg School. Treasurer announced $70 in ship's fund. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang for job well done. Next port: Boston. 21 fund used to repair antenna. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked contracts department for additional in­ formation regarding new contract. Crew gave vote of thanks to steward department for great food and job well done. Next port: Elizabeth, N.J. SEA-LAND EXPEDITION(SeaLand Service), August 29—Chair­ man Joseph Mele, Secretary E. Vazquez, Educational Director D. Beeman, Steward Delegate Alonzo Belcher. Chairman reported every­ thing running smoothly. Secretary reported smooth sailing and announced he is going on vacation. Educational director stressed importance of upgrade S-L Explorer Crew Stays Up-to-Date OMI DYNACHEM(Om), August 15—Chairman Larry Kunc, Secretary Steven Wagner, Education al Director Derrick Bums, Deck Delegate Juan Castillo, Engine Delegate Adrian Davis, Steward Delegate P.R. Mena. Chairman dis­ cussed new policy regarding facial hair and remind^ crewmembers beards are not allowed. Chairman announced payoff at first port in California. He reported crewmembers waiting for con­ tract news. Treasurer reported $150 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked contracts depart­ ment to look into increased dental benefits. Chairman announced tour will include two docks in Los Angeles, three in San Francisco and two in Washington. Crew gave vote of thanks to steward department and reported smooth sailing in all departments. Next port: Los Angeles. Catching up on all the latest union news during a recent shipboard meeting aboard the Sea-Land Explorer in the port of Long Beach, Calif, are (from left) AS George Fries, Patrolman Robert Scrivens, Bosun Jack Edwards, AB G. Milabo Jr. and AB Anthony Sabatini. tion for good meals by steward department, and chairman reminded members to keep mess hall and crew lounge clean since vessel is crewmembers' home while at sea. OVERSEAS PHILADELPHIA (Maritime Overseas), August 1— Chaiman T. J. Olvany, Secretary G.C. Bamman, Educational Director R.P. Curly, Deck Delegate Robert Pachew, Engine Delegate C. Allen, Steward Delegate A. Aggazzali. Chairman suggested new contract should read "he or she" when desig­ nating SIU members. He announced payoff date. Educational director urged members to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Chairman noted two-month contract extension. Crew asked contracts department to look into increase in pension and medical benefits. Crew reported ice machine not working. Next port: Baytown, Texas. OMI MISSOURI(Vulcan Carriers), August 15^—Chairman Cesar Gutier­ rez, Secretary Clyde Kreiss, Deck Delegate Randolf BoUins, Engine Delegate Grant Shuinan, Steward Delegate Ahdul Aziz. Chairman an­ nounced next port in US. Gulf. Treasurer reported $60 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT rqrorted. Crew asked contracts department to look into increased dental and optical benefits. ing at Lundeberg School. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang for job well done. SEA-LAND INDEPENDENCE (Sea-Land Service), August 22— Chairman Lee Selico, Secretary P. Schulz Secretary encouraged mem­ bers to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. Educational director reported various new movies aboard ship. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang for job well done. SEA-LAND PATO/Or (Sea-Land Service), August 14—Chairman R. Garcia, Secretary J. Russell, Educa­ tional Director J. Hagner, Deck Delegate Mark Lance, Engine Delegate Leonardo Papa. Chairman asked crewmembers to write their OMI WILLAMETTE (OMI), August congressional representatives to ex­ 1—Chairman K.P. Amat, Secretary press concern regarding Sea-Land's K.D. Jones, Educational Director J. sail under and APL's efforts to Badgett. Chairman announced foreign flag. Educational director an­ payoff in Beaumont, Texas and RALEIGH BA Y (Sea-Land Service), nounced Piney Point classes posted reported patrolman will come aboard August 22—Chairman David Mur­ on crew deck and advised crewmem­ and update crew on new contract. ray, Secretary Edward Porter, bers to take advantage of Lundeberg Secretary urged members to donate to Steward Delegate Johny Bolton. No School to further knowledge and in­ SPAD and upgrade skills at Paul Hall beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew crease job security. No beefs or dis­ Center. No beefs or disputed OT requested new tape rewinder for crew puted OT reported. Chairman said t/LTfl4/lt4X(Sealift Inc.), July 18— LNG LEG (ETC), August 27— reported. Crew thanked galley gang lounge and gave vote of thanks to vessel had received mail concerning Chairman R. Van Brunt, Secretary for job well done and requested new Chairman Robert Schwarz, contract extension and Sea-Land steward department for job well Joseph Birke, Deck Delegate James Secretary Henry Jones Jr., Educa­ mattresses. filing for foreign flag posted on bul­ done. Rollman, Engine Delegate Eddie tional Director Mark Glinka, Engine letin board. Chairman noted crew has Major, Steward Delegate Malcolm Delegate I.E. Salomons, Steward OVERSEAS ALICE (Maritime SAM HOUSTON (Waterman Steam­ kept ship very clean and neat and Holmes. Chairman announced infor­ Delegate Amy Ripple. Chairman an­ Overseas), August 14—Chairman remind^ crewmembers to leave ship), August 8—Chairman Bobby mation concerning next tour not yet nounced Executive Vice President fames Jawers, Secretary Paul Stuh- Riddick, Secretary C, Rooks. Crew room keys in room if signing off. available. Disputed OT reported by .(oseph Sacco and SIU Representative defleld. Educational Director WJ. Next port: Oakland, Calif. asked contracts department for up­ engine delegate. No beefs or disputed Sal Aquia will board vessel in letty. Chairman announced twodate on contract negotiations. Crew OT reported by deck or steward SEA-LAND QUALITY(Sea-Land Simeji, Japan on August 29. He month contract extension. Secretary new washing machine. No delegates. Crew asked contracts reported new three-year contract will reminded crewmembers to have clean requesteddisputed Service), August 1—Chairman Car­ OT reported. Next beefs or department to look into shipping be explained at that time and asked mine Bova, Secretary T.Smith, linen in rooms for replacements. port: New Orleans. rules for working in cargo holds. crewmembers to write questions Educational Director H.C. Chancey, Educational director urged members Crew requested new chairs and VCR down that they would like answered. Deck Delegate W. Dillon, Engine to upgrade skills at Piney Point as SEA-LAND CRUSADER (Seafor crew lounge and thanked galley Delegate Ed Trester, Steward often as possible. Deck delegate Secretary read minutes of last meet­ ^d Service), August 25—Chair­ gang for job well done. Next port: Delegate Elsa Matter. Chairman an­ ing. Educational director stressed im­ reported disputed OT. No beefs or man A. Hernandez, Secretary N. New Orleans. nounced payoff in Charleston, S.C. disputed OT reported by engine or portance of upgrading at Paul Hall Andrews, Educational Director Bersteward delegates. Center. He reminded members of neo Oswald, Steward Delegate Ben- Secretary reported minutes to last FRANCES HAMMER (OCCI), meeting posted on bulletin board. necessity of upgrading skills. amjn Corpus. No beefs or disputed August 29—Chairman J. Konetes, Educational director urged members Treasurer stated $1,000 in ship's fund OVERSEAS JOYCE (Maritime OT reported. Crew requested comOverseas), August 22—Chairman Secretary J. Price, Educational Direc­ and $40 in SIU communications to upgrade skills at Lundeberg )any provide more stores for Uchard Bradford, Secretary James tor T. Jacohsen. Chairman an­ School. No beefs or disputed OT fund. No beefs or disputed OT voyages. Next port: San Juan. I jladney. Educational Director P. nounced new refrigerators received reported. Chairman reminded crew to reported. Chairman advised crew­ 'agan. Steward Delegate James for crewmembers' rooms. He keep recreation room clean and take members to keep recreation room SEA-LAND DISCOVERY (SeaWadsworth. Chairman encouraged reported transportation time to ship trash to level three. Crew requested clean and respect shipmates by keepLand Service), August 15—Chair­ crewmembers to read company con­ now. being paid by company. He said two new lounge chairs and rug for ng noise down on deck. Crew gave man A. Trikoglou, Secretary J. tract upon boarding ship. Secretary the next port is Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. vote of thanks to steward department crew lounge. Chairman reported Colls, Educational Director Sam reminded crew to rewind videotapes Secretary requested all garbage be recreation room to be sprayed when for cookouts and delicious food. before retuming to library. Education­ ^egron. Deck Delegate E.Ortega, separated in properly marked cans. ship docks in Houston. Engine Delegate J. Guaris, Steward al director urged members to attend Pumpman reminded crewmembers to LNG LIBRA (ETC), August 8— Delegate A. Colon. Chairman an­ SEA-LAND RELIANCE (Sea-Land Lundeberg School for upgrading. No Chairman Monte Pereira, Secretary keep benzene tests and passports up nounced payoff and reported water Service), August 23—Chairman R. beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew Dana Cunningham, Educational to date. Treasurer reported in cooler machine broken. Secretary reported Seafarers LOGs received. Director John Wong, Deck Delegate ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT Chairman reminded crewmembers to asked cooperation from crew to keep . Bellinger, Engine Delegate reported. Crew noted Seafarers LOGs Continued on page 22 decks clean. Treasurer said ship's ean rooms before signing off and received. Crew thanked galley gang for Thomas Neuwiiler, Steward •) t , I r ' I . I .• A: �22 NOyEHIIBER 1993 SEAFARERS LOG Ships Digest in Guam. Steward department reported shortage of stores during voyage. SEAUFT ATLANTIC (IMC), August 22—Chairman Carlos McGonagle, Secretaty-Julio Loureiro, Secretary J.Savoie, Deck Roman, Deck Delegate E. Udan, En­ Delegate Doug Lawton, Engine gine Delegate Leon Fountain, Delegate A. Jones, Steward Delegate Steward Delegate Lito Acosta. Chair­ Neville Monteith. Chairman en­ man reminded crewmembers to use couraged crew to continue to keep safety on deck and separate plastics lounge and crew mess areas clean. in next port. He discussed importance Crew sent condolences to OS Har­ of SPAD for job security and en­ vey Ramos and his family for the couraged members to upgrade at Paul passing of his father, SIU member Hall Center. Education^ director Daniel Garcia, who was sailing urged members to upgrade skills at aboard the Liberty Spirit. Secretary Piney Point and donate to SPAD. No reported captain notified company of beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew stores needed on vessel. No beefs or gave special vote of tha^ to Recer­ disputed OT reported. Crew gave tified Steward Roman and Chief Cook vote of thanks to galley gang for ex­ Acosta for good diiuier on Paul Hall's cellent job. Next port: Norfolk, Va. birthday. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. SEALIFT MEDITERRANEAN SEA-LAND SP/ff/r (Sea-Land Ser­ (IMC), August 8—Chairman vice), August 29—Chairman Richard Houghton, Secretary B. Howard Gibbs, Secretary L. Mesger, Educational Director H, Mc­ Leionek, Educational Director Brian Allister, Engine Delegate Robert Connell, Deck Delegate Romeo Maurer, Steward Delegate Micbael Lugtu, Engine Delegate Ramon Pooler Educational director Lirag, Steward Delegate Joe Tuck­ reminded members to upgrade skills er. Educational director advised all at Piney Point. Deck delegate members to upgrade at Lundeberg reported clothing allowance not being School. Treasurer reported $410 in paid by company. No beefs or dis­ ship's fiind. No beefs or disputed OT puted OT reported. Crew reported reported. Crew asked contracts chairs and tiles in crew mess need ' department for updated contract repair. Chairman announced video news. Next port: Oakland, Calif. library locked after 5 p.m. Crew re­ quested first aid kits. SEA-LAND TACOMA (Sea-Land Service), August 18—Chairman ULTRASEA (Sealift Inc.), August Joseph Artis, Secretary Ralph 20—Chairman A. Noble, Engine Alexander, Educationd Director R. Delegate Raymond Cuccia, Steward Clock, Deck Delegate Don Rico, En­ Delegate Joseph Patrick. Chairman gine Delegate Welton Weaver, announced payoff and thanked crew Steward Delegate William Wples. for job well done. Galley gang given Chairman aimounced van service vote of appreciation for great bar­ while in port. No beefs or disputed becue. No beefs or disputed OT OT reported. Crew discussed keeping reported. Chairman reported crew slop chest going. Chairman requested dryer to be repaired in New Orleans. crewmembers separate plastic from GUAYAMA (Puerto Rico Marine), trash and keep ashtrays empty in September 14—Chairman G. Kidd, crew lounge area. Crew gave vote of Secretary R. Evans, Educational thanks to steward department for Director Scott Speedy. Crew good food and keeping ship clean. reported Seafarers LOGs received in Next port: Tacoma, Wash. San Juan with information concern­ SEA-LAND TRADER (Sea-Laad ing new contract. No beefs or dis­ Service), August 11—Chairman MJ. puted OT reported. Chairman Willis, Secretary J.L. Johnson, reminded crew doors should be lock­ Educational Director M.Sabin, Deck ed in all ports. Crew gave vote of Delegate George Vukmir, Engine thanks to steward department for fine Delegate R. Swanson. Chairman job and keeping crew well fed. reported everything running smooth­ TB GROTON (Sheridan Transporta­ ly. Educational director urged mem­ tion), September 1—Chairman Neil bers to attend Lundeberg School Hatthey, Secretary Marvin upgrading courses. Treasurer reported $355 in movie fund. No Jeloatch, Educational Director A. b^fs or disputed OT reported. Crew Alexakis, Deck Delegate Brian gave galley gang round of applause Fountain, Steward Delegate for fine service. Crew ipport^ Michael Hammock. Chairman an­ socializing with crewmembers from nounced payoff and thanked crew­ Sealift Arctic while at Seaman's Club members for nice voyage. He also Continued from page 21 It's Union Time urged members to read Seafarers LOG to keep updated on union news and to donate to SPAD. Secretary ex­ tended vote of thanks to crewmem­ bers for keeping mess room clean. Educational director advised mem­ bers to upgrade skills at Lundeberg School. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew gave vote of thanks to Steward Deloatch and Chief Cook Hammock for always serving deli­ cious freshly baked pastries and cookies. Next port: Stapleton, N.Y. LNG LIBRA (ETC), September 5— Chairman Monte Pereara, Secretary Dana Cunningham, Educational Director John Wong, Engine Delegate Thomas Neuwiller, Steward Delegate Laurence Conklin. Chairman reported magazines now being delivered on time, and cap­ tain agreed to open slop chest twice during long trips south. He an­ nounced Executive Vice President Joseph Sacco will board vessel in Himeji, Japan to discuss new con­ tract. Secretary asked members sign­ ing off to leave rooms neat and ready for replacements. Educational direc­ tor reminded members to take time to upgrade at Paul Hall Center while ashore. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew reported crew lounge furniture needs to be replaced. Crew discussed purchase of new books. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang for good work. NUEVO SAN JUAN (Puerto Rico Marine), September 6—Chairman WJ. Card, Secretary R. Fagan, Educational Director Charles Gal­ lagher, Deck Delegate J. Passapera, Engine Delegate J. Williams Jr., Steward Delegate Gary Lackey. Chairman reported all operations run­ ning smoothly. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew reported good trip with vote of thanks to Chief Cook Lackey for good meals. OMI CHARGER (OMl), September 6—chairman E.R. Beverly, Secretary Neville Johnson, Educa­ tional Director Milton Israel. Chair­ man announced ship headed for dry dock in Mobile, Ala. with payoff upon arrival. He reported ship will be in shipyard for 20 to 30 days. Secretary reminded crewmembers to strip bunk, empty all trash cans and leave room clean for next occupant. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade skills at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. HOPE/? (Vulcan Carriers), Septem­ ber 5—Chairman James Blanchard, Secretary E. Harris, Educational Director T.L. Thompson, Deck Delegate Spencer Lyle, Engine Delegate Sergio Pasilong, Steward Delegate Ronald Jones. Chairman announced ship scheduled for layup in Port Arthur, Texas. He thanked crewmembers for job well done. Secretary encouraged members to take advantage of Lundeberg School. Educational director urged members to think safety first. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Crewmembers asked contracts department to look into quick medical claim payments and increased vessel manning. Crew requested they be allowed to stay on ship while in shipyard. They gave vote of thanks to galley gang for job well done, and chairman thanked en­ tire crew for being good shipmates and getting along well. Crew re­ quested new chairs and couch for crew lounge. Crew also requested new chairs for crew njess. SEA-LAND ACHIEVER (Sea-Land Service), September 5—Chairman Paul Lewis, Secretary Felipe Orlanda. Chairman reported on his call to headquarters concerning new contract He was informed that new pact in­ cludes no reduction in crew and an in­ crease in wages. Tifeasurer reported $60 in movie fund. Deck delegate rqxxted disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT rqiorted by engine or steward delegates. Next port Norfolk, Va. Crewmembers attend a union meetina on board the Overseas New ipman (3. Orleans. They are drom left, front row) AB P. Giorgilli, Pumpnr Daley, (back row) DEU F. Auguilar, Steward D. Brown and SA M. Guity. ./.• ' V A •7' SEA-LAND ANCHORAGE (SeaLand Service), September 16—Chair­ man Garry Walker, Secretary J. Wright, Educational Director Mar­ vin Wells, Deck Delegate Jusuf Djuned, Engine Delegate Moses Shaibi, Steward Delegate William Bryley. Chairman announced payoff upon arrival in port. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Crew gave vote of thanks to steward department for job well done and asked contracts department for clarification on sec­ tions of new agreement. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. SEA-LAND CHALLENGER (SeaLand Service), September 5—Chair­ man Jose Rodriguez, Secretary H. Scypes, Educational Director Ronald Smith, Deck Delegate Pedro Tor­ res, Engine Delegate Abby Aragones, Steward Delegate J.R. Salazar. Chairman reported crew waiting for details on new contract from SIU headquarters. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked galley gang for Labor Day meal. SEA-LAND DISCOVERY (SeaLand Service), September 12—Chair­ man N. Sala, Secretary Jose Colls, Educational Director A. Negrdn, Deck Delegate Edwin Ortega, En­ gine Delegate J. Guaris, Steward Delegate A. Colon. Chairman an­ nounced patrolman boarding vessel at next port for payoff and contract results. Secretary reported 10 Cuban refugees rescued off coast of Florida were taken by crew to San Juan where immigration officers took them into custody. He reported they were well fed by Chief Steward Colls, Chief Cook Dimas Rodriguez and GSU Colon. Crewmembers reported they also supplied refugees with dry clothing. No beefs or dismted OT reported. Chairman an­ nounced ship begining 21-day round trips starting this voyage upon leav­ ing Elizabeth, N.J. Crew gave vote of. thanks to galley gang for good job. Chief Steward Colls supplied Seafarers LOG with photos of Cuban rescue. SEA-LAND EXPLORER (SeaLand Service), September 12—Chair­ man Jack Kingsley, Secretary W. Burdette, Educational Director C. Dunn, Deck Delegate G. Fries, Enpne lielegate D.M. Parker, Steward Delegate J.James. Chairman an­ nounced he received word of new threeyear contract He reported new agreement itKludes three percent raise the first year thrai four percent the second and diird years on base pay. He reported contract is yet to be ra^ed. No jeefs or disputed OT reported. Crew reported Secfarers LOGs received. Next xxt Long Beach, Calif. Dansalan, Deck Delegate Julius Udan, Engine Delegate David Bland, Steward Delegate Johnnie McCree. Chaiman announced addi­ tional contract extension to Septem­ ber 14 and encouraged members to One Big Texan During a union meeting on the Overseas New Orleans, OS Dana "Willy" May discusses the need for larger survival suits with Recertified Bosun Sonny Pinkham. Brother May checks in at 6 feet 10 inches> 270 pounds. donate to SPAD. He reminded crew­ members to keep quarters, crew lounge and laundry room clean. Educational director advised mem­ bers to upgrade at Lundeberg School. Treasurer reported $225 in ship's fund and $120 in movie fund. He also noted five new movies pur­ chased. Deck delegate reported dis­ puted OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegate. Crew reported Seafarers LOGs received. Bosun thanked steward department for great cookout. He reminded engineroom members to clean up before coming to mess hall to eat. He gave vote of thanks to entire crew. Crew observed moment of silence in memory of the late SIU president, Paul Hall. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. SEA-LAND TRADER (Sea-Land Service), September 16—Chairman M. Willis, Secretary F. Sison, Educa­ tional Director M. Sahin. Chairman reported no more news concerning contract. Treasurer announced $355 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested fan in galley, and chief engineer requested smaller refrigerator for crew lounge. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang. Next port Tacoma, Wash. SEA-LAND VOYAGER (Sea-Land Service), September 5—Chairman T. Murphy, Secretary L. Lightfoot, Educational Director B. Landis, Deck Delegate M.Sorenson, Engine Delegate R.Surrick, Steward Delegate A. Hasan. Chairman an­ nounced port agent to meet vessel upon arrival in port on September 12. He noted Captain Saivelle com­ mended crew after inspection of en­ tire ship. Educational director thanked deck department for pointing out safety hazards. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Seattle Port Agent Bob Hall to meet vessel upon arrival for vote on new contract Crew gave vote of thanks to steward department for job well done. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. SEA-LAND FREEDOM(Sea-Land Service), September 6—Chairman Ivan Bradley, Secretary J. Cbaney, education Delegate A. Horn, Engine Delegate Chris Compton, Steward Delegate Kenneth Lee. Chairman reported crew received July issues of eafarers LOG in Hong Kong and August issue in Egypt. He discussed newspaper article concerning Seaand's application to re-flag vessels, klucation director advised crewmemIjers to use safety belt when stripping gangway on departures. Treasurer reported $100 in movie fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. En­ SGT. MATEJ KOCAK(Waterman gine delegate said a barbecue grill Steamship), Septembers—Chairman will be built on vessel. Apjelo Urit, Secretary L. Gamble, SEA-LAND HAWAII (Sea Land Educational Director D. Peterson, Service), September 1 l—Chairman R. Deck Delegate Glen Rogers, Engine Santos, Secretary J.S, Smith, Educa­ Delegate John Langley, Steward tional Director J.L. Rogers, Engine Delegate Antonio Prizmik. Chair­ Delegate Paul Whalen. Chairman man amiounced payoff in Belfast, urged members to upgrade skiUs at Maine and departure date for Scotland, Paul Hall Center. Beefs reported by Denmark, Spain and St. Thomas. deck, engine and steward delegates. Crew report^ looking forward to trip. 4o disputed OT reported. Crew asked Educational director urged all mem­ for improvements in night lunch and bers to up^de at Piney Point No cold drinks in port Crew also re­ beefs or disputed OT reported. quested fresh milk in Japan. Steward delegate asked crewmembers to keep crew lounge clean. Crew gave SEA-LAND PACIFIC(Sea-Land vote of thanks to deck and engine Service), Septembers—Chairman departments for job well done and .«tbar Reck, Secretary G.M. Bron- steward department for good food. son. Educational Director Juanito Next port: Kirkcaldy, Scotland. �' ' •; . • Y' NOVEMBER 1993 SEAFARERS LOG SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR GREAT LAKES TUG AND DREDGE PENSION PLAN This is a summary of the annual report of Great Lakes Tug and Dredge Pension Plan, BIN 13-1953878, for the year ended December31,1992. The annual report has been filed with the Internal Revenue Service, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENT Benefits under the plan are provided by the Trust. Plan expenses were $881,035. These expenses included $159,680 in administrative expenses and $721,355 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 568 persons were participants in or beneficiaries of the plan at the end of the plan year, although not all of these persons had yet earned the right to receive benefits. The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $17,565,141 as of December 31,1992 compared to $17,097,845 as of January 1,1992. During the plan year, the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $467,296. This increase included unredized appreciation (depreciation) in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the current value of assets at the beginning of the year plus the cost of any assets acquired during the year less the current value of assets at the end of the year. The plan had a total income of $1,348,331, including employer contributions of $259,041, employee contributions of $111,379, gain of $14,447 from the sale of assets, and earnings from investments of $963,464, MINIMUM FUNDING STANDARDS An actuary's statement shows that enough money was contributed to the plan to keep it funded in accordance with the minimum funding standards of ERISA. YOUR RIGHTS TOADDITtONAL INFORMATION You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof on request. The items listed below are included in that report: 1. An accountant's report; 2. Assets held for investment; 3. Actuarial information regarding the funding of the plan; 4. Transactions in excess of 5 percent of plan assets; and 5. Service provider and Trustee information. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of Mr. Nicholas J. Marrone, who is the plan administrator, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746; (301) 899-0675. The charge to cover copying costs will be $2.10 for the full annual report, or $.10 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan, and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses and accompanying notes of the plan, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the aimual report at the main office of the plan at 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746, and at the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department of Labor should be addressed to: Public Disclosure, Room N5507, Pension and Welfare Benefit Programs, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20210. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION In accordance with Department of Labor regulations, the net realized gain of $14,447 as shown above, is computed on the "market-to-market basis"—^the difference between the sale price and market value of an asset as of January 1, 1992; or if the asset was both acquired and disposed of within the plan year, it is the difference between the purchase and sale price. Included in the net appreciation (depreciation) in fair value of investments of ($76,030) as shown in the financial statements is $948,386 of net realized gain which is the difference between the sales price and the original cost of the assets. LOG-A-RHYTHM Of Ships and Men (American) by David Glover Who says there are no more dinosaurs left? I'm telling you that is not true. Not tyrannosaurs or triceratops, But U.S.-ftag ships and their crew. The American Merchant Marine is a trade Of which you may not have heard. Since it's vital to our great nation's defense. This ignorance is quite absurd. The merchant seaman conjures up visions Of an ignorant ward of the courts; An unkempt, uncouth and drunken lout Whose sole interest is bedroom sports! In truth the American sailor today Is highly trained, competent, smart. Trade is vital to the economy's health. Of which shipping plays a large part. A sailor must always be ready to fix Any problems like breakdowns and more. He cannot expect to receive any help Or assistance from people ashore. A professional doing his job, he's aware Of the danger to life, should he fail. He does this despite his image at home "What a choice — go to sea or to jail." Imagine the state of our deficit if Our sailors quit going to sea. Our exports would stop, our country become No longer the "Land of the Free." Desert Storm could not have succeeded without Our courageous Merchant Marine. For foreign-flag ships and seamen refused To carry our goods to the scene! Now American sailors are losing their jobs To flags of convenience unfurled. And U.S.-ftag ships — those brave dinosaurs Will become extinct 'round the world. (David Glover sails as a second mate aboard the SS LNG Virgo, an Energy Transportation Corpora­ tion vessel whose crew is composed of members of the SIU and District 1^MEBA.) 23 Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The PAYMENT OF MONIES. No constitution of the SIU Atlantic, monies are to be paid to anyone in any Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters Dis­ official capacity in the SIU unless an trict makes specific provision for official union receipt is given for safeguarding the membership's same. Under no circpmstandes money and union finances. The should any member pay any money constitution requires a detailed for any reason unless he is given such audit by certified public account­ receipt In the event anyone attempts ants every year, which is to be sub­ to require any such payment be made mitted to the membership by the without supplying a receipt, or if a secretaiy-tneasurer. A yearly fmance member is required to make a pay­ committee of rank-and-file mem­ ment and is givrai an official receipt, bers, elected by the membership, but feels that he or she should not each year examines the finances of have been required to make such pay­ the union and reports fully their find­ ment, this should imm^ately be ings and recommendations. Mem­ reported to union headquarters. bers of this committee may make CONSTITUTIONAL dissenting reports, specific recom­ RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. mendations and separate findings. Copies of the SIU constitution are TRUST FUNDS. All trust av^able in all union halls. All mem­ funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, bers should obtain copies of this conLakes and Inland Waters District stitution so as to familiarize are administered in accordance themselves with its contents. Any with the provisions of various trust time a member feels any other mem­ fund agreements. All these agree­ ber or officer is attempting to deprive ments specify that the trustees in him or her of any constitutional right charge of these funds shall equally or obligation by any methods, such as consist of unipn and management dealing with charges, trials, etc., as representatives and their alternates. well as all othar details, the member All expenditures and disburse­ so affected should immediately ments of trust funds are made only notify headquarters. upon approval by a majority of the EQUAL RIGHTS. All mem­ tnistees. All trust fund financial bers are guaranteed equal rights in records are available at the head­ employment and as members of the quarters of the various trust funds. SIU. Ibese rights are clearly set SHIPPING RIGHTS. A forth in the SIU constitution and in member's shipping rights and the contracts which the union has seniority are protected exclusively negotiated with the employers. by contracts between the union and Consequently, no member may be the employers. Members should get discriminated against because of to know their shipping rights. race, creed, color, seX, national or Copies of these contracts are posted geographic origin. If any member and available in all union halls. If feels that he or she is denied the members believe there have been equal rights to which he or she is violations of their shipping or entitled, the member should notify seniority rights as contained in the union headquarters. contracts between the union and the SEAFARERS POLITICAL employers, they should notify the ACTIVITY DONATION — Seafarers Appeals Board by cer­ SPAD. SPAD is a separate tified mail, return receipt requested. segregated fund. Its proceeds are The proper address for this is: used to further its objects and pur­ Augustin Tellez, Chairman poses including, but not limited to, Seafarers Appeals Board frrthering the political, social and 5201 Auth Way economic interests of maritime Camp Springs, MD 20746 workers, the preservation and fur­ Full copies of contracts as referred thering of the American merchant to are av^able to members at all marine with improved employment times, either by writing directly to the opportunities for seamen and boat­ union or to Ae Seafarers Appeals men and the advancement of trade Board. union concepts. In connection with CONTRACTS. Copies of aU such objects, SPAD supports and SIU contracts are available in all SIU contributes to political candidates halls. These contracts specify the for elective office. All contribu­ wages and conditions undo- which an tions are voluntary. No contribu­ SIU member works and lives aboard tion may be solicited or received a ship or boat. Members should know because of force, job discrimina­ their contract tights, as well as then- tion, financial reprisal, or threat of obligations, such as filing for over­ such conduct, or as a condition of time (OT) on the proper sheets and in membership in the union or of the proper manner. If, at any time, a employment. If a contribution is member believes that an SIU patrol­ made by reason of the above im­ man or other union official fails to proper conduct, the member should protect their contractual rights notify the Seafarers International properly, he or she should contact the Union or SPAD by certified mail nearest SIU port agent within 30 days of the contribution EDITORIAL POLICY — for investigation and appropriate THE SEAFARERS LOG. The action and refund, if involuntary. Seafarers LOG traditionally has A member should support SPAD refrained fixrm publishing any ar­ to protect and further his or her ticle serving the political purposes economic, political and social in­ of any individual in the union, of­ terests, and American trade union ficer or member. It also has concepts. refrained from publishing articles If at any time a member feels deemed harmful to the union or its that any of the above rights have collective membership. This estab­ been violated, or that he or she has lished policy has been reaffirmed been denied the constitutional right by membership action at the Sep­ of access to union records or infor­ tember 1960 meetings in all con­ mation, the member should imme­ stitutional ports. The diately notify SIU President responsibility for Seafarers LOG Michael Sacco at headquarters by policy is vested in an editorial certified mail, return receipt re­ board which consists of the ex­ quested. The address is: ecutive board of the union. The Michael Sacco, President executive board may delegate, Seafarers International Union from among its ranks,, one in­ 5201 Auth Way dividual to carry out this respon­ Camp Springs, MD 20746. sibility. "-.i �24 MOVEMBER1993 XAFJUtERSLOB '•w . Final Departures DEEP SEA NICHOLAS BECK Pensioner Nicholas Beck, 73, passed away August 28. Bom in Ger­ many, he joined the Seafarers in 1949 in the port of New York. He sailed as a bosun. Brother Beck upgraded at the Lundebeig School in Hney Point, Md. in 1981. He served in the U.S. Army from 1942 to 1945. Brother Beck retired in January 1982. JUAN BERNARD Juan Bernard, 70, died September 15. A Puerto Rico native, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1964 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District (AGLIWD). Brother Bernard's last ship was the SS Maui, a Matson vessel. FRANK BRAZELL Pensioner Frank Brazell, 70, passed away Septem­ ber 7. Bom in Georgia, he joined the union in 1944 in the port of New York. Brother Brazell sailed as a QMED. He upgraded at Piney Point in 1976. Brother Brazell served in the U.S. Army from 1940 to 1941. He began receiving his pension in November 1979. JOSEPH CAISON Pensioner Joseph Caison, 66, died September 20. A native of Shallott, N.C., he joined the SIU in 1969 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Brother Caison sailed in the steward depart­ ment. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to 1962. Brother Caison retired in Febmary 1986. HENZEKIAH DONOVAN Pensioner Henzekiah Donovan, 86, passed away September 24. A British West Indies native, he joined the Seafarers in 1945 in the port of New York. Brother Donovan sailed as a cook/baker. He began receiving his pension in September 1969. LUTHER GADSON Pensioner Luther Gadson, 68, died September 28. Bom in Round, SC., he joined the union in 1947 in the port of Baltimore. Brother Gadson sailed in the stew­ ard department He served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to 1945. Brother Gadson retired in Febmary 1981. ROBERT MCCAULEY Robert McCauley, 59, passed away August 22. A native of Teaneck, N.J., he joined the SIU in 1963 in the port of Baltimore. Brother McCauley sailed in the deck department. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1952 to 1955. REIDAR NIELSEN Pensioner Reidar Niel­ sen, 72, died August 27. A Norway na­ tive, he joined the Seafarers in 1953 in the port of New York. Brother Nielsen sailed in the engine depart­ ment. He began receiving his pen­ sion in August 1986. JERI PATTERSON Jeri Patterson, 63, passed away July 27. She joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in her native Los Angeles before that union merged with the AGLIWD. JOHN PROCTOR Pensioner John Proctor, 85, died August 10. An Oklahoma native, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1950 in the port of San Francisco. Brother Proctor retired in July 1970. Port Arthur, Texas. Before retiring. Boatman McDonald sailed as a chief engineer. He retired in 1969. ELIAS WATSON Elias Watson, 72, passed away August 16. Bom in New York, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in San Francisco before that union merged with the AGLIWD. INLAND CHARLES BEDELL Pensioner Charles Bedell, 68, passed away August 2. He joined the union in 1943 in his native New York. Boatman Bedell sailed in the steward depart­ ment. He upgraded at the Lundeberg School in 1978. Boatman Bedell retired in May 1987. JESSE MCDONALD Pensioner Jesse Mc­ Donald, 88, passed away April 8. Bom in Jackson, Ala., he joined the SIU in 1964 in the port of HENRY GRIGGS Henry Griggs, 66, died September 20. Bom in Tampa, Fla., he joined the Seafarers in 1975 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Boatman Griggs sailed in the steward department., He served in the U.S. Navy from 1945 to 1965. LOUIS WILLIS JR. Louis Willis Jr., 35, died September 1. A native of Orange, Texas, he joined the Seafarers in 1989 in the port of Hous­ ton. Brother Willis sailed as a tankerman. He last worked aboard Higman Towing vessels. ATLANTIC FISHERMAN SEBASUANOSERIO Pensioner Sebastiano Serio, 87, died September 28. A native of Milwaukee, Wis., he joined the SIU in 1961 in the port of Gloucester, Mass. Brother Serio retired in March 1973. GREAT LAKES CHESTER PATTON Chester Patton, 65, died July 14. A na­ tive of Bed­ ford, Ind., he joined the union in 1957 in the port of Detroit. Brother Patton sailed most recently as a conveyorman. He upgraded at Piney Point in 1980. Brother Patton served in the U.S. Navy from 1945 to 1953; GEORGE PELLMAN George Pellman, 55, passed away August 28. Bom in Mil­ waukee, Wis., he joined the Seafarers in 1972 in the port of Chicago. He sailed in the steward department. Brother Pellman served in the U.S. Army from 1950 to 1953. FRANK ROBERTSON Pensioner Frank Robertson, 88, passed away August 26. Bom in Scotland, he joined the Seafarers in 1955 in the port of New York. Brother Robertson sailed as a cook/baker. He began receiving his pension in October 1975. ERNESTO RUIZ Pensioner Emesto Ruiz, 72, died Sep­ tember 26. A native of Puer­ to Rico, he joined the SIU in 1955 in the port of Baltimore. Brother Ruiz sailed in the steward department. He retired in June 1985. WALKER WILSON Pensioner Walker Wil­ son, 67, passed away September 24. Bom in Alabama, he joined the union in 1944 in the port of Slorfolk, Va. Brother Wilson sailed in the steward department. He served in the U.S. Army from 1952 to 1954. Brother Wilson began receiving his pension in June 1985. RICHARD WORLEY Pensioner Richard Worley, 59, died September 18. A native of Pensacola, Fla., he joined the SIU in Mobile, Ala. in 1958. Brother Worley sailed as a firemanwatertender and AB. He retired in April 1978. it& I.. I'ni A S Seafarers Seholarships: A Beaeon of Opportunity The Seafarers Scholarship Program is accepting applications for the 1994 school year. Five months may seem like a long time from now. Winter will have come and gone and the new year will be well on its way. But five months is really not all that much time when it comes to completing a scholarship ap­ plication for one of seven awards that will be given to three Seafarers and four dependents of SIU members. Completing the application form, itself, is not very diifficult. What will take more time, how­ ever, is gathering all the other necessary paperwork. This in­ cludes an autobiographical state­ ment, photograph, certified copy of birth certificate, high school transcript and certification of graduation or official copy of high school equivalency scores, col­ lege transcripts, letters of refer­ ence and SAT or ACT results. Schools often are very slow in handling transcript requests, so applicants must be sure to submit their requests to those institutions as soon as possible. Applicants also should sign up for the ACT or SAT exam and start thinking about who to ask to write letters of recommendation for them. Once all the paperwork has been completed and the applica­ tion form is fill^ out, the entire package should be sent to the Seafarers Welfare Plan on or before April 15,1993. With costs of college educa­ tion rising each year, the SIU scholarship is one SIU benefit that can help members and their families realize their educational dreams. Of the seven scholarships that will be awaraded in 1994, three are reserved for SIU members (one in the amount of $15,000 for a four-year scholarship to a col­ lege or university, and two $6,000 two-year scholarships for study at a vocational school or community college). The other four scholar­ ships will be awarded to spouses and dependent children of Seafarers. Each of these four is a $15,000 stipend for study at a four-year college or university. Eligibility requirements for Seafarers and their spouses and unmarried dependents are spelled out in a booklet which contains an application form. To receive a booklet, fill out the coupon below and mail it to the Seafarers Wel­ fare Plan. I please send me the 1994 SIU Scholarship Program booklet ' • which contains eligibility information, procedures for applyI ing and the application form. I Name, Book Number I Address. City, State, Zip Code. Telephone Number. This application is for: CD Self CD Dependent Mail this completedform to Scholarship Program, Seafarers Welfare Plan, 5201 Auth Way. Camp Springs. MD 20746. ./ / / y : / •/ •u 11/93 �NOVEMBER 1993 SEAFARERS LOG 25 Case Made fiw Stmnger hilai^ Regs Continued from page 2 Turner urged the congressional panel to enact legislation to en­ sure the safety of inland water­ ways. The SIU supports a bill, known as H.R. 1915, which would require a Coast Guard-is­ sued merchant mariner document for all men and women sailing aboard inland vessels of more than five gross tons. Similar legis­ lation passed the House last year, but Congress adjourned before the Senate could complete action on the measure. "For the last two years, the SIU has insisted that a potential for catastrophe exists on the nation's inland waterways. No longer is this prophetic; the Sun­ set Limited has made it all too real," noted Turner. Closing the Loophole The SIU presses Congress to pass legislation requiring the Coast Guard to issue merchant marine documents to boatmen, a move that would insure the safety of crewmembers and coastal communities. There is a loophole in current law that exempts a vast majority of individuals working on inland water vessels from holding Coast Guard-issued merchant mariner documents—no matter what the tonnage of the boat. Presently, crewmembers sail­ ing on inland towing and harbor towing vessels as well as ocean and harbor tugs of less than 100 gross tons—which is the vast majority of tugs and tows, many having engines with horsepower in the tens of thousands, some pulling more than 50 barges at a time—are not required to hold merchant mariner documents. Merchant mariner documents encourage safety practices on the part of seamen because if he or she is found in violation of federal law the document can immedi­ ately be revoked by the Coast Guard. In addition, Ae applicant must meet minimum criteria before obtaining a merchant mariner document. "Unlike seamen in the deep sea sector, crews employed on tugs, tows, barges, and offshore supply vessels on the inland waterways are not required to hold mariner documents as a basis for employment," Turner told the subcommittee. "If these individuals were in­ deed required by statute to obtain these documents, the Coast Guard would have the authority to revoke or suspend the documents for cause, thereby precluding unfit mariners from employment in this or any other commercial maritime sector," he noted. "Without Some form of fun­ damental entry-level document there is no " ay the Coast Guarc canprevf i the reemployment o undocumented workers who cause accidents. It is that simple. Turner added. In relation to the Sunset Limited crash, only two of the four crewmembers aboard the towboat that allegedly causec the derailment of the passenger train, had a merchant mariner document issued by the Coast Guard. Congress Takes Action "Although all four crewmem­ bers are charged with navigating responsibilities and must work together as a team, the captain and pilot are the only members of the crew who are required to hole Coast Guard licenses. Neither deckhand was documented, nor are they required to be. As result, their work habits and per­ sonal history are not subject to the same scrutiny by the Coast Guard as those mariners who are required to hold documents or licenses as a basis for employ­ ment," the legislative director pointed out to the congressmen In his testimony, U.S. Coast Guard Rear Admiral James Card told the subcommitt^ that, other than the radar and a radio, the MV Mauvilla carried no chart, com- Study Finds Seamen with Documents Not Likeiy to Be Cause of Accidents Continued from page 2 ^ • y'. pass or other navigational tools. The Coast Guard official noted that such equipment is not required either by die law or Coast Guard regulations. Towboats are required only to have a VHF radio, a whistle, bell and position light "It seems to me that whistles and bells aren't going to do it, said the chairman of the Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Navigation, Billy Tauzin (D-La.). SIU National Director of Immediately following the Governmental Relations, Terry hearing, Tauzin drew up legisla­ Turner urged the Subcommittee tion to ensure that all towing ves­ on Coast Guard and Navigation to sels are equipped with the proper require merchant mariner navigational tools. On October documentation for all seamen 14, he introduced H.R. 3282, The sailing on the inland waterways. Towing Vessel Navigational Safety Act of 1993. Federico Pena, ordered an intense TTie legislation requires that and complete review of Coast all towing vessels which operate Guard regulation and oversight of on inland waterways have marine the inland marine transportation charts, navigational publications, system to be completed by a compass, a radar and a December. fathometer. TTie bill will also en­ The Coast Guard will review sure that licensed towboat the adequacy and effectiveness of operators can demonstrate manning requirements for proficiency using these tools. operators of uninspected towing Joining Tauzin in support of vessels; the history of incidents H.R. 3282, the chairman of the involving operators of House Merchant Marine and uninspected towing vessels; and, Fisheries Committee, Repre­ the adequacy of the requirements sentative Gerry Studds (D- for reporting of marine casualties Mass.), stated that further and hazardous conditions involv­ legislative action must be taken to ing vessels and the adequacy of ensure complete inland waterway the penalties for failure to report safety. such accidents. There are more "We must leara from the hor­ than 5,000 tugs and towboats in ror that occurred in Mobile," he the U.S.-flag fleet and close to said. "It is incomprehensible that 3,300 of those operate on the anyone operating any vessel of nation's rivers and lakes, which any size would not have a chart on make up 25,777 miles of board or be unable to differentiate navigable rivers. between the radar images of a H.R. 1915, as introduced by barge and a bridge. We must take Rep. Gerry Studds early this fall a good hard look at navigational as well as H.R. 3282, introduced procedures on our increasingly by Rep. Tauzin have been crowded inland waters and at presented to the subcommittee manning and licensing require­ and await mark-up. ments on inland towboats. We Once approved by the subcom­ must close all loopholes and fill mittee it goes on to the full House aU the gaps we find." Merchant Marine and Fisheries Committee, who after delibera­ DOT to Do a Study As a result of the tragic derail­ tion will send the legislation to ment of the Sunset Limited, the House for debate and vote. If Secretary of Transportation passed, it goes to the Senate. dividuals on these vessels are Guard, "human factors" include documepted and thus will have some of the following categories Great Lakes and deep sea vessels been subjected to a record check bypass of available safety the most likely cause of an acci­ of the National Driver Register, devices, inattention to duty, in­ dent was problems related to the which releases information re­ toxication—alcohol/drugs, cal­ vessels. In the graph below, lated to any driving offense per­ culated risk, carelessness, error in tugs/tows include all such vessels taining to alcohol. The applicant judgement, lack of knowledge, less than 300 gross tons. Lakes is also subject to a Federal Bureau lack of training, lack of ex­ ships are those vessels over of Investigation (FBI) check and perience, operator error, fatigue, 10,000 gross tons, self-propelled, review of criminal records as well stress, physical impairment, which have been involved in an as verification of U.S. citizenship psychological impairment, accident on one of the five Great or evidence from INS of lawful failure to comply with rules or Lakes. Finally, ocean-going ves­ entry and permanent residence in regulations, inadequate super­ sels are all selfr propel led vessels the country. In addition, the vision, failure to follow the rules over 14,999 gross tons and which mariner must take an oath to ad­ of the road. are one of the following types of here to all applicable federal The Coast Guard's data vessels: Container, Rbll-on/Roll- laws; provide proof of employ­ reveals that the most likely reason off, LASH, Ore-Bulk-Oil, liquid ment in the industry or evidence for an accident involving a deep or dry bulker, or oil, gas or chemi­ of military service; renew docu­ sea ship or Great Lakes vessel is Continued from page 2 cal tankers. ment every five years and com­ a problem with the vessel itself. The primary distinction be­ pletion 60-90 days of seatime. To As defined by the agency, "vessel visibility severely limited, the tween the seamen employed obtain an advanced rating, a problems" are those factors re­ pilot began looking for a tie-off aboard tugs and towboats in the seaman must pass a Coast Guard lated to the material or equipment on the east side of the river. By inland sector and those working examination indicating proficien­ of the ship or boat that cause lugging the east side of the aboard vessels on the Great Lakes cy and knowledge. trouble, but which are not related Mobile River, the pilot uninten­ and oceans, is the great majority The Coast Guard's data base to improper maintenance. Ex­ tionally entered the Big Bayou of crewmembers on marine indicates that human factors are amples are inadequate equip­ Canot, where barge traffic is equipment in the rivers and lakes the primary cause of accidents in­ ment; inadequate stability; prohibited. are not documented by the United volving tugs and tows. Converse­ inadequate horsepower; failed On the radar screen, the pilot States Coast Guard. ly, on deep sea. ships and Great materials, such as electrical, saw an object extending across die Crewmembers aboard deep Lakes vessels, the human factor mechanical and structural items. waterway and mistakenly thought The percentage of accidents the object was a tied-up tug and sea and Great Lakes ships are sub­ only accounted for roughly one caused by forces of nature was third of all accidents ject to rigorous alcohol and drug similar among all three classifica­ ow. The Mauvilla headed toward As defined by the Coast testing procedures. All in­ tions of vessels. "Environmental the object intending to ask permis­ Factors" are considered by the sion to tie-up alongside. Coast Guard to be adverse The deckhand who was LEADING CAUSES OF MARINE ACCIDENTS weather conditions, adverse cur­ scheduled to be on watch was in BY VESSEL TYPE FROM LATE 1970s THROUGH MID-1991 rent or sea conditions, debris, suc- the galley below when the tow U.S. FLAG INLAND TUGmiWS, GREAT LAKES & OCEAN-GOING VESSELS tion bank, ice, submerged struck the bridge causing a sec­ m HUMAN FACTORS objects, unmaintained channels, tion of the railroad bridge to be PERCENTAGE VESSEL PROBLEMS among others. OFTOTAL cnocked 41 inches out of align­ •1 ENVIRONMENTAL PROBLEMS The SIU concluded that the ment. The shift left a bridge girder ACCIDENTS 5o<^ FOR THE evidence proves that seamen in the path of the oncoming train THREE 40% with merchant mariner docu­ and a spokesperson for the Na­ LEADING ments have a better safety tional Transportation Safety CAUSES ^ record and are less susceptible Joard reported that it was this 20% to injury and death than men and women working aboard tugs that caused Amtrak's Sunset and tows who do not meet the Limited to plunge into the bayou. The question of how much LAKE VESSELS OCEAN VESSELS standards the Coast Guard re­ TUGfrOW time elapsed from the slamming quires of all mariners. Investigation Continues Of Amtrak Deraiiment m '4'"'" of the bridge to the derailment is still under investigation. Safety board officials have said that the train wreck occurred about eight minutes after the bridge was rammed. The towboat pilot told the authorities that he thought that he was still in the Mobile River, when in reality he was lost in the fog in the Big Bayou Canot. The reported position was one mile from the actual accident. U.S. Coast Guard Rear Ad­ miral James Card testified that had the operator known how to use his radar aboard the tugboat MV Mauvilla, he would not have mistaken a railroad bridge for a barge and headed for it in the nonnavigable waterway. The committee was also told that, other than the radar and a radio, the towboat carried no chart, compass or other naviga­ tional tools. The Coast Guard of­ ficial noted that such equipment is not required either by the law or Coast Guard regulations. Towboats are required only to have a VHF radio, a whistle, bell and position light. ..'tr 'V~. . A'; .'.H • �26 SEAFARERS LOG MOVEMRER1993 •'' i-'V'-1 Lundeberg School Graduating Classes Trainee LlfeboatClass515—Graduatingfromtraineelifeboatcte^515are(fromleft.kneeling) Ben Cusic (instructor). Ricardo Ribeiro. Marcus Nicholas. Lionel! Royer. Enc Airline. lOrk Bryan, (second row) Jayson Agana. Trent Williams. Raymond Negron, Malachy Mu vey. Austm Garginer. Gregory Thomas, (third row) William Keith Crawford. Anthony Crummell, Marvin Johnson^ John Douglas Flangan. Anthony McDanniel and David Pedigo Jr. Advanced Firefighting—Upgrading members completing the advanced firefighting course are Bruce Perry. (from left, kneeling) Sidney Skinner. Daniel Vich. LeRoy Isaacson. Richard Tankersley. B Stephen Bishop, (standing) Byran Cummings (instructor). Sue Corliss. Jason Myers. Daniel Hughes. Sam Johnson. Douglas Jones. Paula Woodside. Olgierd Becker. Darrell Peterson, John McGonagle. George Taylor Jr.. Robert Corbett. John O'Connell. Paul Van Hollebeke. Michael Stravers. (third row) Richard Ziegler and Allen Shaw Hydraulics—Completing the hydraulics course on August 19 are (from left, kneeling) Robert Gaglioti. John Parkhurst. Sellers Brooks, (second row) Steven Hoskins. John Penrose. Kelly Davis. Larry Phil^t and Bill Foley (instructor). Upgraders Lifeboat—Upgrading graduates of the Septemtier 8 liteboat class are (from left, kneeling) Kenneth Getter. Jamie Watson. (second row) Omar Muhammad, George Vitello.Saundra Leonard. John Bayard III. Casey Taylor (instructor), (third row) Denis Picciuolo. Scott sweeney, Carl Parker. Carolyn MerrifiekJ. Paul Guzman and Bassirou jg. Diesel Engine—Receiving certification in diesel engine tech­ nology are (from left, kneeling) Keeper Brown. John Nelson. Beckett Young HI. (second row) John Wiegman (instructor). Paul Patterson. Michael Martykan. Richard Mollis and Lawrence Rose. Not shown are William Smith and Jorge Bonnelli. Sealift-Crane Maintenance—Graduating from the September 8 sealift-crane maintenance class are (from left, kneeling) Dale Kirsch Jr.. James Duffy. Kevin Upgraders Lifeboat—Ben Cusic (left) instructed Young, (second row) Michael Struve. Jack Green. Daniel Rick Gray and Jason Collins, members of the upgraders Brady and Jeff Swanson (instructor). lifeboat class that graduated August 23. Shiphandling—^Working their way up the deck department ratings are (from left) Jake Karaczynski (in­ structor). Allen Shaw. Mary Watson and Gregg Carlson. >*.' ' /-l •• • •"< ...jr,;- •••' . �SSWUfERS UW 27 imEmEiims mrrugiaiw LOIMIEBEfffi SGMML ^^-1994 imnUUHHG COURSE Sf^EDlHI nKdadalf-In Bosun Recertificatioii Steward Re<»rtlfiation - .. . ^ is the course schedule for fnr classes r^lasses heginning beeinninc between Decemb the following SJ^SHfrrS change to reflect the n^s of the membership, the industry and-in times of conllict-the nation s security. Completioh Check-In Date Date Course _ January 31 March 11 ^^^S^^uaetheOSSpmPrevenaonandConuU^ ' -• SIdphandling Radar Certification . Cd^tial Navigation .^iSiniis UiirdMate Bohrse Oil SpiU Prevention and Containment tjyii^ifdinan • , Basic^^dvanced Fire Fighting Inland Basic/Advanced Fire Fighting Operations & Maihtenance Limited License, Part 1 Limited License,Part 2 Limited License, Part 3 QMED-Any Rating Fireman/Watertender and Oiler Diesel Engine Technology Rtfrigeration Maint. & Operations Welding PumproomMaintu&Openi^ Marine Electrical Maintena^ Refrig. Cdntitiners-Adi^ceti Basic Electronics Marine Electronic Technician I Marine Electronic Technician U Check-In Date Completion Date February 14 March 14 February 18 March 18 December 6 January 3 January 17 January 31 January 25 March 15 January 17 December 17 January 14 January 28 February 11 February 4 March 25 January 22 January 3 February 21 March 21 January 17 April 11 :January 31 April 25 February 14 May 9 f li-:; i {<i Deep Sea Member• CnmpletionDate, January 3 January 3 May 9 February 21 January 1 Ma«*di21 January 3 March 28 May 2 February M May 2 Januarys Fdl»ruary2 March 1 March 25 February 11 June 17 Mardil8 February 11 April29 January 28:) Aprtt22 June 10 April22 June lO January 31 February 28 March 31 Virfff* Erfiicatftwi S^iBdiriB , ' •' . 1 I " ^ English as a Second Language (E5L) Developmental Stupes . , January 28, March 18 Aprill5 January 28 April 22 February 11 May6 February 25 May 20 12 weeks - open-ended adi^ion 6 weeks - open-ended adn^ion 6 weeks - open-ended admission January 10 January 17 Mareh7 'Mm March 14 MarchJl MatdiZS JanuarylO March4 time tounion book indicating :ard listing urn «ceiv«l SHOT^B (Street) (State) Check-In (Madle) (Fusi) Address (Qly) Compietion^te ga-^SStaottCABE) -DateofBhth (Ust) c^^v.ln The foUowing courses ^Ei^Simaaoil. Sohool.net.sccoutecttheadm.ss.ousoffl.^toe,^^^ UPGRADING APPLICATION Name. May 2 MOarch 7 agimllMnMnwComw jMuary28 March 25 January 14 February 18 March 11 February 11 May 6 Januaiy 17 March 14 January 10 February 14 March 7 January 3 March 28 April 19 March 28 January 31 ^ VESSEL _ Telephone _X(Area Code) (Zip Code) MemberO DISCHAKGE _ Inland Wa.® MemberD PacBc Lakes DATE. ^Mowing./—.no,ytt.don, be processed. Social Security SIGNATURE. Book#__ — I am interested in the f?U°wi^ ^our8e{s)checkedbelowormdicaled here if not listed Department Seniority acnwjiiij ^ nv« • No Home Port. U.S. Citizen; LJ i—' EndotsementCs) or Liceose(s) now held • Yes Are you a graduate of the SHLSS trainee program? DNO to. If yes, which program: from Last grade of school completed ^ ^ Have you attended any SHLSS upgradrng courses. • Ves ,fyes.course(s)taken^^----^^ If yes, course(s) taken Have you taken any SHLSS Sealitt pe DNO DNO ! If yes, how many weeks have you com^^^ Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guar i • Yes •No' FirefightingiDYes UN Date available for training Primary language spoken [jYes • No DhCK AB/Sealift 1st Class Pilot Third Mate Radar Observer Unlimited Master Inspected Towing Vessel • Towboat OperatorInland • Olestial Navigation • Simulator Course • • • • • — ENOINE • FOWT • QMED-Any Rating • Variable S^UC^e Speed DC Drive Systems (MarineElectromcs) • Marine Bectiical Maintenance • PumpipomMMntenanceft Operation • Refrigeration Systems Maintenance &Operation • Diesel Engine Technology • AssistantEngjnew/Chief Engineer Motor Vessel • Original 3rd Engineer Steam or Motor • RcftigeratedContainers Advanced Maintenance • Electro-HydrauUcSystems Q Automation • Hydraulics • Marine Electronics Technician • • • • • p • ALL DEPARTMENT • Welding • Lifeboatman (must taken wifli another course) • oa Spill Prevention & Containment • Basic/Advanced * Fire Fighting • Sealift " ADULTEDUCATION DEPARTMENT • Adult Basic Education (ABE) • High School Equivalency Program (GED) • Developmental Studies (DVS) • English as a Second Language (ESL) • ABE/ESL Lifeboat . Preparation STEWARD Assistant Cook Utility Cook and Baker " COLLEGE PROGRAM ChiefCook • Associate in Alts Degree Chief Steward Towboat Inland Inland Cook Towboat COOK . th^iMter only ITyooprewitorigliial receiptsand «i«ariliny ..i- �SEAEUCERS SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT A copy of the Summary Annual Report for.the Great Lakes fug and Dredge Plan is printed on page 23. November 1993 Volume 55, Number 11 'iiii: Crewmembers of the ITB New York must have experienced deja vu during a recent trip from Hous­ ton to the U.S. Virgin Islands. ! The SlU-contracted vessel ex­ ecuted two rescues in four days, both involving Cuban refugees, AB Robert Seaman reported in a letter to \hc Seafarers LOG. On September 24, the New York picked up four men about 45 miles northeast of Havana. They had been drifting in a 14-foot plastic rowboat, without food and with lit­ tle drinking water left. The Cubans had no life jackets, and their only navigational tool was a pocket compass. Bosun Mario Romero and Cap­ tain Cyrus Brewster, who both speak Spanish, learned from the refugees that they had started with five men in the boat. "But they only got about two miles out and one of them jumped into the water and started back for shore," wrote Seaman, who also provided the photos accompanying this story. The crew of the New York retrieved the Cubans without inci­ dent. Steward Richard Hicks and Four men adrift In a 14-foot plastic rowboat are picked up by thecrew ot the ItB New York. Chief Cook Gregory Johnson gave the men food and beverages.Two of the Cubans did not have shirts, so Seaman and Chief Engineer Olivette gave them T-shirts. "Let's just say the food went fast," Seaman said. "After four days, you can im­ agine how hungry they were." He added, "The whole crew of , the New York helped out in one way or another. This was an all-hands operation." The Coast Guard cutter Padre picked up the Cubans a little while later. They were taken to Key West, Fla. where they had preliminary in­ terviews with the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS). The men then were turned over to a local, volunteer organization called the Transit Center for Cuban Refugees. They will have a full hearing with the INS at a later date. Here We Go Again Three crewmembers prepare the ladder so that a U.S. border patrol boat can pick up the survivors of the second rescue. From left are Pumpman Richard Natoll, DEU Thomas Correll and Bosun Mario Romero. The New York had made it to the Mona Passage, off the coast of the Dominican Republic, by the morn­ ing of September 27. That is when AB Ronald Paradise sighted a small boat occupied by two Cubans (one male, one female). Two Cubans take tfie line that I pulls their small craft alongside i the ITB New York. 'if * • _-!:i •• -- Crewmembers of the integrated tug-barge shot a line to the small crrft, then pulled the boat alongside the New York and secured it. Again the refugees were brought aboard without complications. They were fed by the steward department, then took showers and borrowed some clean clothing while their gar­ ments were washed. "They said they bought the boat from a Cuban soldier and they were lucky to get away," Seaman reported. "They had left with four tanks of gas, and they were almost out." A U.S. border patrol boat picked up the dno, and the New York again resumed its voyage. It was not clear how or why the two Cubans wound up in the Mona Passage. These incidents "delayed our trip, but it's always good to help those in need," concluded Seaman. "In both cases, the Cubans might have been in trouble if we hadn't seen them." SIU members aboard the New York during these events were Bosun Romero, ABs Seaman, Paradise and Gary Nagel, QMED Richard Natoli and DEU Thomas Correli. fr ml: The first four Cubans to be rescued are flanked by Bosun Mario Romero (left) and AB Robert Seaman, who provided the LOG with the photos accompanying this article. Tl Bosun Mario Romero talks to the duo, now safely aboard the In- || tegrated tug-barge. I Help Locate This Missing Chiid The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children has asked the Seafarers International Union to assist them in locating Jake Wayne Brabson. » ^ "A Jake Wayne Brabson •.P>. . Missing from New Castle, Pa. since June 21, 1989, when he was two years old, Jake Brabson was abducted by his non-custodial mother, Debra Lee Brabson (alias Debra Johns). A felony warrent has been issued in her name. At the time of his abduc­ tion, the blonde-haired, blueeyed boy was 3 feet 4 inches tall and weighed 40 pounds Anyone having information on the whereabouts of Je^ke Wayne Brabson should tact the National Cenfc/r fo^ Missing and Exploited Children at (800) 843-5678 or the Miss­ ing Persons Unit of the Pennsyl­ vania State Police at (412) 658-1671. liil: � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 1990-1999 Description An account of the resource Volumes LII-LXI Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993; Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource November 1993 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES AMTRAK DIASTER SPOTLIGHTS NEED FOR TOUGHER INALND SAFETY REGS TRAIN DERAILMENT ON BRIDGE TIED TO THE STROKE OF A TOW U.S.-FLAG COALITION URGES CONGRESS, PRESIDENT TO BACK MARITIME PROGRAM DOCUMENTED SEAMEN ARE BETTER WORKERS, STUDY SHOWS AFL-CIO FIGHTS TO NIX NAFTA SENATE REPELS ATTACK ON SEAMEN’S WAGES EXPLOSION ABOARD OMI CHARGER KILLS SEAFARER, 2 IN RIDING CREW SIU VICTIM OF BLAST MOURNED BY UNION UNIONS PRESS ‘WORK TAX’ SUIT PRO-WORKER COURSE SET BY AFL-CIO DELEGATES GIANT GRAIN LOBBY BALKS AT REVEALING FOREIGN TIES PATTERN OF ABUSE, CORRUPTION BY GIANT AGRI GROUPS UNCOVERED LOST VIETNAM MARINERS HONORED BY SAN FRANCISCO MONUMENT ANTI U.S.-FLAG SHIP GROUP TIGHT-LIPPED ON FOREIGN TIES NYT: EXPORT FOOD AID ABUSED SEAFARERS PRACTICE SPILL CONTAINMENT TB PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES TO BE INSTITUTED BY SIU WHITE HOUSE ANNOUNCES U.S. SHIPYARD SUPPORT CONGRESS, PRESIDENT URGED TO BACK LEGISLATION FOR MARITIME REVITALIZATION LUEDTKE AND ZENITH SEAFAERS RATIFY NEW THREE-YEAR ACCORD G&H PACT ENDORSED ALTON BELLE OFFICERS APPROVE CONTRACT ASSESSING INDUSTRY NEEDS, INLAND GROUP PLANS COURSES TRAINING DEEMED ‘BENEFICIAL’ BY MARITRANS SIU BOATMEN SHIFTING AND DOCKING VESSELS CREATE BUSY SCHEDULE FOR SIU-CREWED TUGS NAVY’S GROCERY STORE HOME AFTER 8 YEARS IN PACIFIC WILLIAM HANDELSMAN DIES AT 75, FORMER MSTU ORGANIZING OFFICIAL U.S. COMBAT SUPPLY SHIP MARS BEGINS NEW LIFE MTD LAUNCHES GRASSROOTS EFFORT TO KEEP U.S. FLEET CONVENTION SUPPORTS CLINTON HEALTH REFORM MTD SPOTLIGHTS NAFTA’S MANY FLAWS, CONGRESSMEN NOTE DANGERS OF PACT UNIONISTS TAKE ACTION 1993 MTD CONVENTION CREW’S PRIDE EVIDENT ABOARD PRES. JACSKSON GALLEY GANG PROVIDES ‘TOUCH OF HOME’ ON BOARD LNG VIRGO CREW AGREES: ALTAIR HAS CAMARADERIE, TEAMWORK SEAFARERS BOATS SWEEP CONTEST OF NEW BEDFORD FLEET BLESSING INVESTIGATION CONTINUES OF AMTRAK DERAILMENT ITB NEW YORK RESCUES CUBAN REFUGEES Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 11/01/1993 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 55, No. 11 1993 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/8b1802433feca35dad025605adb1e59f.PDF a82553f1b3cc90ba70f83bca42579654 PDF Text Text ••• ••5^' ' v;#:-•• •• ;^f • OFFKIAl ORGAN OF THE SEAFARERS INnRNATIONAL UNION • ATLANTIC GULF, UKiS AND INLAND WATERS DISTRia •AFt-CIO Lindsey Williams, Sill Pioneer, Dies at 79 Page 7 Lindsey Williams , / •-'• / ./ ' '/ • '>V>' �2 OCWBER1993 SEM=MERSUm President's Report Maritime Stuiiy Commission Backod By Congnssionai SubcommBioo Health Care Reform— Off to a Good Start Insofar as America is concerned, health care looms large as a na­ tional crisis. Last month, President Clinton, who pledged to address the problem during his campaign, announced to Congress the broad principles of his administration's proposed national health care system. While more details of the Clinton plan can be found elsewhere in this edition of the Seafarers LOG, it should be noted that it is a pro­ gram designed to counter the rampant and ravag­ ing problems in medical care today—including lack of coverage for 37 million Ainericans and costs that keep mounting. Fortunately, we in the Seafarers are among Michael Sacco those in the United States who have health in­ surance. And while the last two decades have been economically difficult ones for our industry, the Seafarers medi­ cal plan has remained financially sound through prudent and wise management. This has allowed ^he Seafarers Welfare Plan to maintain comprehensive coverage for its participants. Thus for Seafarers the health care crisis may not seem so immedi­ ate. The same can be said for the millions of union members who also have good health care benefits through their collective bargaining agreements with their employers. But the truth is all workers who enjoy medical care coverage have a deep stake in the Current debate. For one thing, the cost of providing health care to the uninsured has been put on the backs of the people who have coverage. It is the insured who end up paying higher costs as hospitals, doctors and forprofit insurance companies pass on the tab for t^ng care of Americans with little or no health insurance coverage. Another effect of skyrocketing medical care costs is to put in danger the benefits of those who have health insurance. As costs esca­ late, health plans must look for ways to meet the bills. The result to the insured person is decreased coverage, increasing deductibles, copay systems, limited selection for seiVice providers and other restric­ tions instituted for cost-control. Basically, out-of-control health care costs have provoked medical plans to look for ways to make cuts just in order to meet rising expenses. Certainly unions are familiar with the squeeze on existing benefits. In recent years, 75 percent of all disputes arising in union contract talks came from health care-related issues. These days a strike is most likely to involve a difference over health care. j The SIU and all of American labor will be very carefully keeping track of the Clinton health care proposal as it moves through Congress as well as other legislative initiatives on the subject. The SIU, along with the AFL-CIO, will be generally working to ensure that any com­ prehensive health care system enacted into law is fair to all Americans, provides coverage to every American, spreads the ex­ pense of medical services evenly and equitably and contains costs. In particular, the trade union movement also will be working closely with the administration and members of Congress to make sure the high level of health care benefits and coverage which union members have won at the bargaining table is not reduced or subjected to a tax. American labor intends to push vigorously for swift action on this issue as the more time that goes by without a national health care sys­ tem in place, the more existing benefits are jeopardized and the more people find themselves without adequate coverage. As it stands now, the Clinton health care approach allows non­ profit, multi-employer health insurance programs—such as the Seafarers Welfare Plan—the ability to continue to offer to their par­ ticipants the full scope of comprehensive services in place under their plans. The Clinton administration proposal says these kind of plans can continue to give more in the way of benefits than what would be mandated by law. Additionally, spokesmen for the president have indi­ cated that under the Clinton plan the benefits that go beyond the stand­ ard benefit package prescribed by the government will not result in adverse tax consequences to the participants of these plans or to com­ panies which pay into multi-employer plans. At first blush, there is much in the Clinton health care system plan the American labor movement can support. In the upcoming months, as Congress begins its full examination of the Clinton proposal, the SIU and all U.S. unions will be deeply involved in the debate. The SIU's goal, as always, will be first and foremost to see that the needs and interests of Seafarers and their families are met in any national health care plan that ultimately becomes the law of the land. Volume 55. Number 10 October 1993 The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 0160-2047) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District; AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, Md. 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Second-class postage paid at MSC Prince Georges, Md. 20790-9998 and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, Md. 20746. Communications Department Director and Editor, Jes­ sica Smith; Managing Editor, Daniel Duncan; Associate Editors, Jordan Biscardo and Corrina Christensen; As­ sociate Editor/Production, Deborah A. Hirtes; Art, Bill Brower. Two separate efforts to create majority leader and the House and measure by House Armed Ser­ panels to study the role of the Senate minority leaders. Once vices Committee Chairman Ron U.S.-flag merchant marine with created, the commission would Dellums (D-Calif.). The Dellums amendment regard to national security and the have 60 days to submit its report. would initiate a technology economy are underway in Limits Participation development program to provide Washington. The Hollings-Lipinski com­ abase for advanced shipbuilding, House members already have mission differs from the one begun debate a bill that would proposed by Gore's NPR. Mem­ create a market for U.S.-built form a committee to analyze the bers of the Gore commission double-hull tankers and expand need of the U.S.-flag maritime in­ would be selected solely by the federal loan guarantees for U.S. shipyards. As a separate bill, the dustry. Meanwhile, the National president. Performance Review (NPR) While the size of the Gore shipbuilding legislation had report overseen by Vice President commission has not been deter­ passed the Merchant Marine and A1 Gore recommended last month mined, no more than three mem­ Fisheries Committee. that a different commission be set bers could be from the seafaring Senate Bill Differs up also to investigate the mer­ labor, subsidized carriers. While the House is still con­ chant fleet. It appears probable Department of Transportation sidering the defense funding bill, that in the near ^ture both com­ and the Federal Maritime Com­ the Senate already has approved mittees could be functioning. its version of the measure. The mission. On September 22, the House The Gore panel would be upper chamber did not include Merchant Marine Subcommittee chaired by a representative fi-om any aspects of the shipbuilding marked up for the full Merchant the National Economic Council legislation in its version. Should Marine and Fisheries or Defense Department. It would the bill passed by the House differ Committee's consideration legis­ be required to submit its report from the Senate version, mem­ lation calling for a commission to within 90 days of its creation. bers from both branches of Con­ study the U.S.-flag merchant fleet gress would meet to iron out the and its role with national security. Other Bills Moving differences. Subcommittee Chairman Wil­ While the effort tocreate comThe other maritime revitaliza­ liam Lipinski (D-Ill.) introduced ttees is taking place, two pieces tion bill before the House is the the bill (H.R. 3103) a day before of legislation associated with Maritime Security and Competi­ the subcommittee reported it maritime revitalization are await­ tiveness Act of 1993 (H.R. 2151). favorably to its parent committee. ing action by the full House of It was recommended to the full The legislation is similar to a bill Representatives. body just before the August offered by Senate Commerce As the Seafarers LOG was recess began. Committee Chairman Ernest going to press, the House was The measure is designed to Hollings (D-S.C.) in August. debating the Fiscal Year 1994 amend the 1936 Merchant Marine It c^s for a commission com­ defense funding bill which incor­ Act by creating a Maritime posed of members from maritime porated the National Shipbuild­ Security Fleet Program which labor, shipbuilding, international ing and Conversion Act. would make eligible up to 90 commerce and other related fields Originally offered as a separate U.S.-flag vessels operating in in­ appointed by the president, the bill, the legislation (H.R. 2547) ternational commerce to receive a Speaker of the House, the Senate was amended into the funding subsidy for 10 years. Gore Report Calls for Marine Review Several maritime related is­ sues were included in a 168-page report on "reinventing govern­ ment" released by President Bill Clinton and Vice President A1 Gore on September 7. The document was prepared by career civil servants whose charge from the vice president was to look for ways to streamline the federal government in order to make it more responsive to the people. The National Performance Review (NPR), as it is known, took six months to complete. The review dealt with all aspects of the federal govern­ ment. The Clinton administration estimated $108 billion would be saved and more than 250,000jobs would be eliminated over a fiveyear period if all of the proposals made in the report were imple­ mented. Within the outline was a onesentence call for the establishment of an indq)endent commission to conduct a detailed investigatioii into the U.S.-flag merchant marine industry and the benefits the country derives from it. The state­ ment did not spell out who would serve on the committee, how long they would serve or what specifi­ cally the panel would examine. As reported last month in the Seafarers LOG, a leaked draft about maritime for the NPR was to call for the total deregulation of the maritime industry, including the elimination of the 1920 Jones Act which stipulates that only U.S.-built, U.S.-crewed, U.S.flagged vessels transport cargo between two domestic ports. However, there was no such lan­ guage in the document when it was unveiled. While the draft was not in­ cluded in the September 7 release. the document continues to be cited by foreign-flag interests who are out to scuttle the U.S.flag merchant fleet. Noting the efforts made by foreign-flag allies to influence the NPR report, Herbert Brand, chairman of the board of the Transportation Institute, in­ formed Gore in a letter, "As one who has been involved in the maritime industry for well over 45 years and has borne witness to all manner of attacks on it by, those who would benefit from its demise, never before have I seen their efforts underwritten by the government. "This, indeed, is a sad commentaiy and one that bodes ill for the well-being of this nation," added Brand. (The Transporta­ tion Institute is a trade association representing U.S.-flag vessel operators engaged in domestic and intemationd business.) Also concerning maritime, the review called for establishing re­ employment rights for merchant mariners who leave private sector jobs to serve aboard vessels during times of war or national emergency and for cutting in half the funding provided by the federal government for the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. SIU Rallies In Support of Mineworkers Seafarers participated in a rally with members of several other AFL-CIO unions in sweltering temperatures on September 3 to show their support for merhbers of the United Mine Workers of America (UMWA) in their ongoing strike against Bituminous Coal Operators' Association (BCOA). The union now has 17,500 mirwrs on strike in seven states in Appalachia and the Midwest Voicing their enthusiasm in front of UMWA headquarters in Washington are (left to right) SIU members Leo Ryrin, Alex Lottig, Roliert Clemons. James Crisler, Anthony Luzopone, Luis Escobar, Richard Taylor and Kenneth Creque. • I �OCTOBER 1993 SEAFARERS LOG 3 OH Spin Ship Crews Vote for Seafarers • "®:^ .v. Crewmembers working aboard 16 oil spill response ships voted last month to join the ranks oftheSIU. By a count of 47-43 with one challenged ballot, the mariners working for Dyn Marine Services aboard Marine Spill Response Corporation (MSRC) ships around the country voted to be represented by the Seafarers. Representatives from the union and the company are scheduled to meet this month to begin negotiations on a contract. The vote was conducted by the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) after the union filed pledge cards in August requesting an election. Voting took place on all 16 vessels located along the U.S. coastline as well as in Hawaii and the Virgin Islands on September 2. The ballots were taken to NLRB headquarters in Washington and counted on Sep­ tember 9. A total of 111 crewmembers were eligible to vote. The union for purposes of wage, hour and working conditions will Wearing union colors, Lone Sfar ffesponder crewmembers (left to represent all crewmembers on the rigtit) Mate John Lambermont, Oiler William "Buzz" Canslerand Cook vessels with the exception of the captain and chief engineer. Ray Salas show their approval. During organizing meetings with SIU representatives prior to the vote, crewmembers stated their reasons for going union. "Being affiliated with the Seafarers will give us greater job security," noted OS Stephen Brown, who works aboard the Georgia Responder. "We want to make sure we have good medical and pension benefits," added Mate John Fitzsinunons of the Florida Responder. "A union like the SIU will do that for all the crewmem­ bers." Outgrowth of CPA '90 Dyn Marine, a subsidiary of DynCorp, operates the oil spill response ships in behalf of the MSRC, a not-for-profit corpora­ tion created by major oil com­ panies following the passage of the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (CPA '90). The law was Congress' response to the Exxon Valdez dis­ aster in Prince William Sound, Alaska in 1989. When the tanker ran aground, it created the worst oil spill in U.S. history as more than 10 million gallons of crude escaped. There was no pre­ planned effort available to con­ tain the oil before it washed ashore. OPA '90 changed the way tankers sailed into U.S. territorial waters. Among the new regula­ tions was one calling on vessels to have a response plan and capability in place in the event of an oil spill. In August 1990, major oil companies organized and funded MSRC in order to comply with the new law. MSRC established a series of responsesites with ships, trained personnel and oil spill containment equipment to handle any disasters created by tankers whose owners contribute to the new corporation. The goal was to have the response program opera­ tional before the August 1993 deadline set by OPA '90. The ships designed by MSRC are 208 feet long and have a nineperson operating crew. In the event of a oil spill, the vessels have quarters for up to 38 people. Each ship is equipped with two deck cranes, two stern- a Continued on page 8 Foreign Shipping interests Unmasked :A. International Plot Seen to Invade U.S. Waters As the LOG went to press, it learned that a substantial part of the attack on the U.S. merchant marine and the govern­ ment programs which serve as its under­ pinning are emanating from an interna­ tional group of lawyers, accountants and trade consultants who have ties to foreign shipping companies. Much of the thinking of the foreign groups spearheading the attack on U.S. shipping is revealed in a September 20, 1993 article in the South China Morning Post. The news story makes clear a primary source of the recent spate of assaults on the U.S. merchant marine and American maritime policy. Up to now, the knowledge of the institgators has been fuzzy with much of the work seeming to originate with a tiny group of free­ traders. This article makes it evident that the recent vehement onslaught on American shipping is rooted in a well- financed and well-coordinated group of lobbyists for foreign shipping interests. Named in the article as the firms be­ hind the effort to deep-six U.S. maritime laws and diminish the role of Americanflag shipping in order to replace it with foreign vessels are three firms; Sheldon & Mak, Moore Stephens and Manchester Trade. Quick research into a series of news articles printed in publi­ cations around the world indicates that each of these groups has deep ties to foreign interests which stand to profit substantially if American shipping is wiped out. Initial research reveals: • Sheldon & Mak is a law firm based in Southern California which has a reciprocal affiliation with China's largest legal entity, the Shanghai Finan­ cial Law Firm. The Shanghai lawyers' group has among its rolls 40 firm attor­ neys who also hold positions in the Pre U.S.-Flag Greup To HgM Attacks On American Ship ITades Concerned with the health of the American merchant marine, forces repre­ senting a wide range of interests including patriotic groups; citizens' organizations; shipping companies active in ocean-going. Great Lakes and domestic commerce; maritime unions representing seamen and boatmen; and shipyards have banded together to counter efforts to downsize the U.S.-flag fleet. The group, which named itself the United States Maritime Coalition, was formed at a meeting called by SIU President Michael Sacco in Washington, D.C. on Sep­ tember 23. Attended by 135 people from a broad spectrum of organizations, the group pledged to seek a U.S. maritime policy consistent with the interests of the Chinese government. • Moore Stephens is the 17th largest public accounting firm in the world and one of the biggest in the ship­ ping world. Based in London, it numbers among its clients Greek and Polish ship­ ping interests, including the Polish Steamship Agency. Tjie accounting firm advises and works with Sovcomflot, the giant ship­ ping entity controlled by seven private transportation companies and the Rus­ sian government. Moore Stephens not only serves the international shipping sector as the world's largest accountant for shipping interests, it also offers consulting ser­ vices in related areas such as ship finance. As a result of a recent merger, Moore Stephens is the accounting firm of most of die protection and indemnity (P«&1) clubs which insure the marine indust^. Most P&l clubs are based in places like Continued on pc^e // A GROUP of professionals spearheading an initia­ tive to encourage the Clinton administration to deregulate the United States shipping market is seeking support from Hong Kong shipping in­ terests. The ^oup comprises in­ ternational trade lawyers Sheldon and Mak, Lon­ don-based accountancy iRrm Moore Stephens, and Manchester Trade, an in­ ternational trade consult- The deregulation move is seen as a radical policy nation. shift as it will open USIn opening the session, Sacco said it flag trade to foreign-built was time to combine the strength of all the and repaired carrier groups that believe the United States must lines, foreign investors have a vital shipping capability. "The full and foreign crews. implication of an America without U.S.flag ships has not been realized in the "If these recommenda­ administration, among certain policy­ tions come to pass, the makers and in the press," Sacco said. world shipping industry "It is up to us to tell thecomplete story... stands to gain significant and that is: America can only be an opportunities to expand economic and defense superpower if the their businesses,"the nation has sufficient shipping power under group said in a statement the U.S.-flag, available in times of conflict and stabilizing trade in times of peace," the The goals of an Intematlonal group of lawyers, accountants and trade consultants with SIU officer said. ties to foreign shipping are exposed in a recent article in the Freight and Shipping Post Continuedon page II section of the South China Morning Post, a Hong Kong newspaper. W -V - mrcv-r. • gawic--:. -1 ' .• •• �4 SEAFARERSLOG OCTORER1993 sill Calls on Congress to Close Inland Safety Loophole majority of individuals working and women sailing aboard inlanc contributing to the safety of on inland water vessels from vessels of more than five gross maritime commerce," stated Ar­ holdingCoastGuard-issuedmer- tons. Similar legislation passec thur Volkle, associate general chant mariner documents (also the House last year, but Congress counsel for Maritrans. Sacco said that the number of known as z-cards)—no matter adjourned before the Senate towboat casualties have been sig­ Wliht the tonnage of the boat. could complete action on the nificant during the period from Presently, individuals serving measure, 1981 through 1990. According to on inland towing and harbor In its testimony of September the Coast Guard's data base, towing vessels as well as ocean 8 to the Subcommittee on Coast and harbor tugs of less than 100 Guard and Navigation hearing on casualties involving towboats gross tons are not required to hold the legislation, the SIU em­ under 300 gross tons numbered z-cards. On navigable rivers and | phasized that the safety of crew 8,242, of which 5,047 or 62 per­ lakes, except the Great Lakes, the members on thousands of tugs cent were attributed to personnel causes. majority of individuals" working j and towboats is at stake. As defined by the agency, per­ aboard a tug or towboat are not "The SIU strongly backs this required to hold merchant measure because it has been anc sonnel causes include such fac­ mariner documents. The Coast will continue to be a strong advo tors as inattention to duty, Representative Bart Stupak (DGuard, however, does require that cate for safety, the safety of its intoxication, error in judgment, Mich.) speaks In favor of Inland on all river and lakes towing ves- members, the safety of vessels on lack of knowledge, lack of train­ documentation legislation. sels of 26 feet in length (regard- which its members earn their ing, lack of experience, operator less of tonnage), the operator of livelihood, the safety of the en error, fatigue, stress, improper Bart Stupak (D-Mich.) also the boat must hold a document vironment, and the safety of the safety precautions, failure to voiced support for the legislation, issued by the agency. communities along the rivers comply with rules, regulations stating, "In this growing industry, TheCoastGuardalsorequires banks," SIU Executive Vice and procedures, improper load­ I thir^ that the requirements of that tankermen working aboard | President Joseph Sacco pointec ing, cargo stowage, securing, this act are a minimd intrusion on mooring and towing. Further, of people to provide safety tugs and toWs hold a document | out. the accidents attributed to person­ throughout our country for ship-^ with the appropriate endorse­ Need For Safe Waterways ments. All other hands abpardl Tugs and barges are respon nel causes, 82 percent resulted in ping on our inland waterways." vessels on the nation's navigable sible for a multitude of cargoes groundings and collisions. Sacco stated that although the The SIU believes that these boat operators and tankermen rivers and lakes, except fte Great Lakes,carrynomerchantmanner|f,„„ Among the casualties are indicative of the hold a docunieixt with the ap­ Executive Vice President Joseph document, other endorsements or material transported on the need to assure all users of the propriate endorsements, current Sacco stresses the importance of licenses. nation's rivers and lakes are inland waterways and the com law needs to expand to include all safety standards on the nation's The inland documentation bill petroleum products, forest anc munities along the rivers that the other hands aboard the vessels. navigable rivers and lakes in his (H.R. 1915), would require "The captain of the vessel is farm products, coal, metallic ores mariners who man the commer­ testimony on Capitol Hill. mariner documents for all men radiation materials and chemi cial craft which share these water­ responsible for the safety of his cals—including benzene^ am­ ways are uniformly examined by crew and his vessel; however, monia, sulfuric acid and fertilizer the Coast Guard for the positions there are times that a deckhand In many cases the cargo is hazard they hold. In the deep sea sector may be involved in certain ous or combustible or both, Sacco where all members of the crew aspects other than his usual duties are either licensed or docu­ while the vessel is underway or noted. "Given the nature of the mented, the accident rate due to product carried, the large popula­ the human factor is significantly Required to Hoid Merchant Vice Admiral Albert Hertion centers on the rivers' paths ess," the SIU official said. Mariner Document or Licenw berger (Ret.) was sworn in as the Documentation Process and the unpredictability of the head of the U.S. Maritime Ad­ • All deep sea and Great rivers themselves, it is ludicrous To obtain a merchant mariner ministration (MarAd) after the Lakes mariners working that within this large segment o document, which is a form o Senate unanimously approved aboard U.S. merchant vessels waterbome transportation, there identification issued by the agen­ his nomination shortly after of atleast 100 gross tons. are personnel in the industry who cy, the applicant is subject to a returning to Capitol Hill follow­ • The operators of towing are not required by law to meet 'ederal Bureau of Investigation ing its August recess. minimal criteria similar to that re­ FBI) check and review of vessels 26 feet in length or His nomination had been quired of deep sea personnel," the criminal records and, as a result greater regardless of tonnage held up for several months by SIU official stated. of the Oil Pollution Act of 1990, navigating on rivers and lakes, three farm-state senators who must make available any infor­ • All tankermen with ap­ Company Supports Plan opposed Herberger's stance in mation contained in the National propriate endorsements. Maritrans GP Inc., the largest favor of cargo preference. Drivers Register related to any independent maritime transporter President Clinton announced Exempted from Hoiding of petroleum products in the U.S. driving offense pertaining to al­ the retired Naval officer as his Merchant Mariner Document coastwise trades, is among the cohol. Merchant mariner docu­ choice to head the Department or License growing number of maritime ments are denied by the Coast of Transportation agency in • Individuals serving companies to have thrown their Guard if within 10 years prior to April. After being approved for aboard inland towing vessels he date of the filing, the applicant strong support behind the legisla­ the post of Maritime Ad­ Albert Herberger of less than 100 tons. las been convicted in court of a tion. ministrator by the Senate Com­ narcotics violation, unless the in­ • Individuals serving Tt must be remembered that, merce, Science and dividual has submitted evidence aboard harbor towing vessels Herberger began his life at even if not carrying hazardous Transportation Committee in to the agency to reasonably war­ 100 tons. of less than June, Herberger saw his sea as a merchant mariner. He is substances, these vessels, if rant the conclusion that he is no • Individuals serving nomination put on hold by a graduate of the U.S. Merchant operated imprudently, threaten onger involved with or as­ Senators Conrad Burns (R- Marine Academy in Kings the safety of other vessels operat­ sociated with narcotics and is aboard ocean tugs of less than 100 tons. Mont.), Hank Brown (R-Colo.) Point, N.Y. and sailed aboard ing on the waterway; it makes suitable for employment. and Charles Grassley (R-Iowa). merchant vessels until he joined little difference that all the crew• Individuals serving There are more than 5,000 tugs members of a tanker are screened The senators stated they dis­ the Navy in 1958. aboard harbor tugs of less than While serving in the military, when the other vessel makes a and towboats in the U.S.-flag 100 tons. agreed with Herberger's views on fleet and close to 3,300 of those cargo preference and claimed Herberger accumulated more wrong turn and causes a collision. operate on the nation's rivers and We see H.R. 1915 as significantly they wanted more time to study than 17 years of executive ex­ akes, which make up 25,777 tied up. In an emergency situa­ perience involving all aspects of his nomination. tion, the deckhand on watch is miles of navigable waterways. Coast Guard Requirements managing manpower resources under the direction of the captain. Under Senate rules, a single including for Merchant Mariner Gathering Support recruiting, training, There are times when he will be senator may delay indefinitely education, distribution and Document Bipartisan support for H.R. called up to the bridge by the cap­ the final approval by the whole logistics. Prior to his retirement • Evidence of drug-free 915 was displayed during the tain or even when the cook could chamber of a presidential ap­ urinalysis. hearing. In a statement to the sub­ active duty in April 1990, pointee. In this case. Burns, from • Oath to adhere to all ap­ committee, Representative Jack be called on in certain situations." the Albany, N.Y. native served Brown and Grassley, all ardent plicable federal laws. The vessels exempted from ields (R-Texas), ranking deputy commander-in-chief • Check of National Driver opponents of cargo preference as the Coast Guard merchant of the U.S. Transportation Com­ Register for drunk-driving or minority member of the Merchant legislation, withheld mand where he was responsible mariner document requirement Marine and Fisheries Committee, controlled substance violations. Herberger's name from con­ for developing and implement• Criminal record check said, "The requirement to obtain include marine equipment of sub­ sideration until they had a ing a strategy to promote with the FBI. merchant mariner document al- stantial proportions. Many of the • Verification of U.S. chance to talk with the admiral government and civil sector boats in question are driven by citizenship or evidence from ows the Coast Guard to deter­ about his position. Grassley, support for improvements in all engines with horsepower in the mine which individuals may pose INS of lawful entry and per­ who consistently has attacked modes of national transporta­ manent residence in country. risks to vessel safety. The Coast tens of thousands. There are some the U.S.-flag merchant fleet, tion. • Proof of employment in Guard exercises continuing over­ towboats that push more than 50 the industry or evidence of sight over seamen required to barges at a time, making the over­ was the last to drop his hold, August 1990, Herberger military service. thus allowing the Senate vote to wasIn named all tonnage of the combined vice president for • Renewal every five years. maintain documents as a condi­ take place. marine equipment unit close to maritime affairs at the Interna­ • Completion of 60-90 days tion of employment, and may hat of an ocean-going vessel, (U.S. cargo preference laws tional Planning and Analysis suspend or revoke a document for ofseatime. said the SIU official. mandate that a certain percent­ Center in Arlington, Va. He be­ • To obtain an advanced cause. Without a documentation age of government-impelled came a consultant for MarAd requirement, the Coast Guard is H.R. 1915 has been presented rating, passage of Coast Guard cargo be carried aboard after his nomination was an­ jowerless to act against a seaman to the House Subcommittee on examination indicatingproficien­ American-flag vessels.) who may commit a serious error Zloast Guard and Navigation and nounced. cy and knowledge. or offense." is awaiting further action. The SIU is urging Congress to pass legislation designed to close a loophole in the nation maritime standards which is en­ dangering the safety of the men and women who sail on the nation's rivers and lakes. As the law currently stands, the loophole exempts the vast HerbersfBt Sworn In As Maritime Head - . •' I �tf-': V>:-'-Z p:rm '••Pm; OCTOBER 1993 SEAEARERSLOG 5 Seafarers Ratify New Three-Year Contract far LNG Vess^s Seafarers working aboard Energy Transportation Company (ETC) vessels ratified a new three-year contract with the com­ pany last month following a series of shipboard votes. The pact, retroactive to June 16, increases wages and benefits, while making changes in the working conditions aboard the eight liquified natural gas (LNG) vessels that sail between In­ donesia and Japan. SIU Executive Vice President Joseph Sacco held meetings with Seafarers aboard several LNG vessels to discuss the changes and answer questions concerning the Executive Vice President Joseph Sacco reviews changes in the new ETC agreement with Seafarers aboard the LNG Leo before voting. new contract, which in many Orgulf Boatmen Endorse Pact For Work Aleng Mississippi River Seafarers sailing aboard Or­ gulf Transportation tugboats along the Mississippi River and its tributaries have overwhelm­ ingly ratified a new four-year contract with the company. The new pact incliides a wage increase and expanded medical benefits coverage which took ef­ fect September 15. It also coit tained changes in the work rules aboard the boats. These changes, which were made with an eye toward Orgulf fleet expansion, brought about a mutual agreement between the company and the union to reopen the contract prior to its December 31 deadline. The new pact will run until the end of 1997. Crewmembers provided sug­ gestions and ideas for the new agreement when SIU officials serviced their vessels as well as through correspondence with the union. Representatives for the SIU and the Cincinnati-based com­ pany held six negotiating sessions beginning in the spring. Delegates to the talks included Deckhand Greg Camel, Lead Deckhand Gary Gillespie and Cook Nigel Godden. Voting by SIU members aboard the tugboats was inter­ rupted by flooding this summer along the Mississippi River. Most of the Orgulf fleet of 21 boats was '"•'/ See page 13 for photos of crewmembers ratifying the contract aboard LNG vessels. three-year life of the contract. The pact includes outpatient medical care for spouses and dependents of SIU members. It also allows the board of trustees of the Seafarers Pension Plan to lift the $1,000 monthly cap, which will permit qualified members to retire and get higher pensions. The contract calls for changes in the crew compliment aboard the LNG vessels. Sacco told crewmembers this measure was tied to efforts by the union to ob­ tain future LNG contracts, thus creating more jobs. "I talked with the crews about the important changes taking place in the maritime industry and, in particular, within the LNG market," Sacco recalled. "There is a tremendous potential for growth with LNG transportation and we are looking to be part of it." "This new contract will allow ETC to compete around the globe," noted Steward/Baker Henry Jones Jr., who sails aboard the LNG Leo. "It's a good contract because it provides greater job security and oppor­ tunities for the membership and our families." Negotiations for the new pact began in the spring. Although the previous contract expired June 15, the union and ETC agreed to an extension under which the members continued working. While aboard the vessels, Sacco also discussed the training and upgrading opportunities available at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Educa­ tion in Piney Point, Md. He ad­ vised the crewmembers how courses at the school are constant­ ly updated to provide Seafarers with the latest information that will help .them with their jobs aboard LNG vessels. "All of the ships I was aboard were in excellent condition," Sacco said. "They were clean and looked great. It was a pleasure to visit the LNG vessels and talk with the crews." Great Lalces Memlfers Approve New Agreement Representing the Seafarers in talks with Orgulf Transportation are (left to right) Deckhand Greg Camel, St. Louis Port Agent Joe Sigler, Cook Nigel Godden and Lead Deckhand Gary Gillespie. * Seafarers aboard American Steamship Co. vessels like the American Republic are covered under the new Great Lakes contract. An Orgulf tugboat sails up the MIsslssipi River past Alton, III. layed up until the river and its tributaries b^gan receding in August. Orgulf tugs push barges loaded with coal, grain, steel pipes and other items along the Mississippi, Ohio and Missouri rivers. Trade Gouncil Continues Efforts To Organize Avondaio Shipyard The New Orleans Metal Trades Council is continuing its efforts to begin the collective bar­ gaining process for workers at the Avondale Shipyard in New Or­ leans. In July, Avondale workers voted to go union by a margin of 1,804 to 1,263 at the traditionally non-union site. A coalition of trade unions from the New Or­ leans area, including the Seafarers, worked together during a four-month organizing campaign prior to the vote. The effort to organize the yard, the largest private employer in New Orleans and one of the nation's leading shipyards, was initiated by shipyard worker Dick Creed. Over a two-year period with his wife. Creed informed his fellow workers through flyers about the activities of the com­ pany thaf were not in the employees' interest. regards parallels the union's standard agreement. Seafarers working aboard ETC vessels will receive a cumulative increase in base wages of 11 percent over the Among the issues of interest to Avondale workers were a see­ sawing wage scale, nepotism and favorism in hiring and promotion practices by managers, unsafe working conditions, workers' paying a very high contribution rate for medical care compared to the company contribution and a so-called employee stock owner­ ship plan with little employee participation. In Ae balloting conducted by the National Labor Relations Board, 650 ballots were chal­ lenged. A majority of these votes were withheld by the NLRB be­ cause the names of the people cast­ ing ballots did not appear on voting eligibility lists. A hearing on the matter was set for late September. Union representatives meet with Avondale workers regularly. "We are letting the employees know that this is a full time opera­ tion and that the fight goes on," Great Lakes Seafarers have approved a new contract that will cover their wages, benefits and working conditions into 1997. The new four-year agreement with the Great Lakes Association of Marine Contractors (GLAMO), a management group of Great Lakes operators, in­ cludes wage and health benefit increases as well as changes in the work rules. SIU members ratified the new agreement, which is retroactive to August 1, by casting votes on their vessels throughout the Great Lakes region. For the first time, outpatient medical care is available for the spouses and dependents of Great Lakes members. In meetings, cor­ respondence and ship's minutes, members had expressed their concern that this be included when the new pact was negotiated. Representatives for the Seafarers and the companies held six negotiating sessions begin­ ning late June in Cleveland. When negotiations continued past the July 31 deadline for the previous contract, the union and GLAMO mutually agreed to ex­ tend the pact until an agreement was reached. The contract calls for yearly pay increases throughout the life of- the agreement and maintains all earlier benefits. "This is a good contract with a lot of improvements that will help us. The outpatient medical Care for dependents is great. We really needed this," said ABAVatchman John Spezia, who sails aboard ASC vessels. The companies which incor­ porate GLAMO include American Steamship Company (ASC) based out of Buffalo, N.Y., Cement Transit Company of Cleveland and Litton Great Lakes and Erie Sand Steam­ ship Company of Erie, Pa. The fleet transports iron ore, stone, coal and salt along the Great Lakes. said SIU Representative Bobby Milan of New Orleans, who has assisted the Metal Trades Council during the drive. "lliis is why we are out in the yard handing out pamphlets and talking with them. We do not want them to think that we've for­ gotten them after the vote." Milan noted the company has been contesting the election since it was held and the results an­ nounced. He said the trade unions involved "are going to be there fighting for the employees every step of the way." Besides the SIU, other unions working with the New Orleans Metal Trades Council in the or­ ganizing effort are the Boiler­ makers, Carpenters, Electricians (IBEW), Insultors, Iron Workers, Laborers, Machinists, Operating Engineers, Painters, Plumbers and Pipefitters and Sheetmetal Also covered under the four-year agreement are crewmembers workng aboard the Richard Reiss, an Erie Sand Steamship Co. vessel. Workers. • ..'•'"•ki: • • '• •'..VillV., • , �6 ocnmai993 XAFARBISLOa AFL-CIO httensifSes BaWe to Mix Tirade Deal I :<v., ' Warning that the proposed breakfast in New York, Kirkland shortcomings of the side deals.) North American Free Trade summed up organized labor's Heading South of the Border Agreement (NAFTA) woulc views on NAFTA w'^en he said, Under NAFTA, tariffs anc spell disaster for miillions of U.S "We shall demor t ate that we workers and for the nation's are indeed a free and independent other trade regulations among the economy, trade unionists labor movement, in no one's United States, Mexico and throughout the country recently pocket but our members, when it Canada would be removed during began stepping up efforts to con­ comes to the so-called Free Trade the next 10 years, thereby en­ vince Congress to reject the trade Agreement with Mexico. couraging U.S. businesses to deal which originally was "We believe NAFTA is a sell­ move south of the border to take negotiated by the Bush ad­ out of working Americans. It advantage of cheap labor and in­ ministration. would be deeply damaging to the adequate environmental stand­ A number of "No NAFTA country and to the communities ards. events took place across the that make up America. And the The AFL-CIO estimates that countty on Labor Day, including labor movement is going to fight enactment of NAFTA woulc parades in Cleveland and Cincin­ it with everything we've got." result in half a million U.S. nati and rallies in North Dakota President Clinton last month citizens losing their jobs. It also and Minnesota. Additionally, the officially kicked off his campaign would lead to a general decline in APT.-CIO has collected hundreds to enact NAFTA, during a White wages for those who still have of thousands of signatures on House ceremony when—sur­ jobs, according to studies by the anti-NAFTA petitions, and or­ rounded by former presidents Economic Policy Institute (EPI). ganized labor's legislative com­ Bush, Carter and Ford—he The EPI estimates that NAFTA mittees in key congressional signed side agreements quickly would reduce the wages of districts met with members of the negotiated by his administration 70 percent of U.S. workers whoare House and Senate during the concerning labor and environ­ not in high-skill, high-technology Seafarers from the port of Honolulu (pictured above) recently took part August recess to reiterate the mental protection. in a "No NAFTA" demonstration in Hawaii. The event was one jobs by at least $1,000 per year. dangers of NAFTA. Clinton during his campaign example of the AFL-CIO's campaign to prevent the so-called free Opponents of NAfTA have Seafarers who have not al­ last year promised not to support trade agreement with Mexico and Canada from being enacted. ready done so are urged to contact NAFTA until it included such presented finely detailed argu­ their senators and congressmen side deals. But the AFL-CIO, ments against the deal. House catil't hide this simple fact: mental agreement that excludes and ask them to reject NAFTA, a along with key elected officials Majority Whip David E. Bonior NAFTA still threatens to make air and water. deal which AFL-CIO President on Capitol Hill, and farmer and (D-Mich.) and House Majority American jobs our Number 1 ex­ "Under this agreement, we Lane Kirkland recently described environmental groups, immedi­ Leader Richard Gephardt (D- port," said Bonior, the third rank­ will not be doing the best for our as "a poison pill left OVCT from the ately denounced the side accords Mo.) are among those who have ing Democrat in the House. people," he added. "Drawn down last administration." as failures, cementing their op­ described NAFTA as a high-risk by the lower wages in Mexico, Gephardt pointed out, "Under experiment in which countries at position to NAFTA. our standard of living will con­ NAFTA, the Mexican govern­ far different stages of economic NAFTA: A Sell-Out (Throughout the debates about development tinue to stagnate or decline." ment refused to allow industrial and democratic NAFTA is scheduled to go NAFTA, Ae AFL-CIO has main­ NAFTA proponents, includ­ relations—the right to strike, the before the House late this month tained its position in favor of truly rights attempt to merge their right to bargain collectively and ing Senate Minority Leader Bob or in early November. While the 'air trade deals which benefit all economies. (Mexico's poverty right to freely associate—to be Dole (R-Kan.) and Senator John trade deal apparently has little nations involved. However, the rate is 40 percent, while its gross covered under the dispute resolu­ C. Danforth (R-Mo.), argue that backing in the House, it has far federation of trade unions insists domestic piroduct is one-twen­ tion procedures of the agreement. the trade deal would open the tieth of that of the United States.) greater support in the Senate. that NAFTA is not a "fair trade" "All the fanfare about the This is a glaring and critical omis­ Speaking at a Labor Day agreement, largely due td the Continued on page 20 completion of side agreements sion, equivalent to an environ­ Clinton introduces National Heaith Care Reform Plan Congress to Take Up Plan; Organized Labor Offers Its Backing J,?;:- .. .'A'.:' Organized labor supports President Clinton's health care reform plan, and will "conduct a major campaign for its enactment by the Congress," said AFL-CIO President Lane Kirkland. "This plan will accomplish a goal that the labor movement has sought for the better part of this century: health care for every American." Clinton unveiled the plan in a nationally televised address on September 22, although many of the details had been made public roughly a week earlier. But final action on health care is a long way off. Clinton's speech merely marked theofficial kickoff of an intense national debate that will last for many months. Later this month, the president will send his proposal to Congress for debate. Meanwhile, a number of competing plans also are being offered by both Democrats and Republicans. Some of the key points of President Clinton's program in­ clude: • Requiring all employers to provide health insurance to their employees. • Establishing and enforcing, through federal or state govern­ ment, cost limits on private sector health insurance premiums, as well as limits on doctorand hospi­ tal fees. • Prohibiting health insurance firms from refusing to insure an applicant, or charge excessively high premiums, due to an individual's health condition. • Providing coverage for every U.S. citizen, regardless of their health or employment status. (Al­ most 40 million Americans cur­ rently have no coverage. Many others are underinsured.) • Greatly simplifying paper- How Clinton Heaith Plan Would Be Financed ($ Billion, 1994-2000) Sources of Funds: Medicare Savings ($124) Sin Taxes ($105) Medicaid Savings ($114) Savings to Other Federal Programs ($47) Revenue Gains ($51) Former Medicare and Medicaid Recipients Now Covered by Alliance Plans ($259) Uses of Funds: Long-Term Care ($80) Medicare Drug Benefit ($72) Public Health/ Administration ($29) Subsidies for Low-Income Firms and Workers* ($169) Deficit Reduction ($91) Alliance Coverage ($259) 'Includes self-employed tax deduction Estimates are preliminary and do not incorporate interactive effects. work and eliminating waste and medical fraud, leading to substan­ tial savings. The president also said the only new taxes under his plan would be on tobacco products, plus a surcharge of 1 percent im­ posed on large corporations that decide not to join health alliances. Joining trade unionists in sup­ port of the basics of the plan are large corporations including Chrysler Corp., Xerox and Beth­ lehem Steel; senior citizens groups; many health insurers; and medical providers such as the American Academy of Family Physicians. (The AFL-CIO is part of the Health Care Reform Project, a diverse, non-partisan coalition that collectively repre­ sents 50 million Americans who support the plan.) Thus far, the nation's big health insurance companies and the National Federation of Inde­ pendent Business have been the . most vocal opponents to the president's plan. The business group represents many com­ panies that do not provide their workers with health care coverage. Clinton's proposal calls for employers to pay for at least 80 percent of their employees' premiums. Employers still would be able to pay more than 80 per­ cent, however. Provision Protects Seafarers The president's plan allows multi-employer, non-profit plans like the Seafarers Welfare Plan and others associated with unions to continue to serve their mem­ bers and provide high-quality AB Photo by Greg Gibson A joint sesion of Congress gathers to hear President Clinton outline his plan for health care reform. care. Multi-employer plans, under the Clinton proposal, may continue to offer more benefits than the core benefits package which the president's plan would mandate. Spokesmen for the president have indicated that under the Clinton plan, the benefits that go beyond ^e standard benefit pack­ age prescribed by the government will not result in adverse tax conse­ quences to the participants of these plans or to companies which pay into multi-employer plans. However, there are others in government who have suggested taxing benefits if they exceed the government's standard package. The AFL-CIO and the SIU will work vigorously to oppose any suggestion or placement of such taxes. In addition, a provision in the SIU's new three-year standard contract states that in the event of a national health care system being enacted by Congress and signed into law by the president, the union and its contracted operators will, work to ensure that Seafarers and their families con­ tinue to receive the high level of benefits they currently enjoy. Continued on page 20 �it' .-.m- OCTOBER 1993 SBVARBISUK 7 Former VP Llndsey Williams Dies of Heart Disease at 79 Lindsey Williams, a longtime the American merchant marine Additionally, he served during SIU official who pioneered the or­ delivered military supplies. During the 1970s as president of both the ganizing of inland boatmen and the invasion of Okinawa, his vessel Greater New Orleai^s AFL-CIO deep sea merchant mariners for the was torpedoed and sunk. and the New Orleans AFL-CIO union, passed away September 12 After the war. Brother Williams Maritime Trades Council. In the at Elmwood Medical Center in was assigned as an organizer in the former capacity, he worked as chair­ Louisiana due to heart disease. He Gulf area. He was involved in the man of the federation's Committee was 79. drive toorganize the Isthmian Line, on Political Education, which recom­ Brother Williams served the and later was appointed as the mended to union leaders which can­ Seafarers in many capacities from SIU's director of organizing. didates the AFL-QO should endorse the time he joined the SIU in 1942 Red Campbell, retired SIU vice in local elections. until he retired in the spring of president-contracts, worked with Retired SIU official Buck In 1988, Lindsey Williams was honored for his many years of service 1979. Always politically active, he Williams during several organizing Stephens, who worked with Wil­ to the union when the shiphandling simulator building was named for was vice president of the union's campaigns, on cruise-ship con­ liams for 30 years, described him as him. He is joined by his wife, Cordelia, and SIU President Michael Gulf Coast District from 1965 to tracts and on other projects. "a good leader, the type who Sacco as he cuts the ribbon. '79. He also worked informally "Lindsey was a dedicated official wouldn't ask anyone to do some­ with the union even before he who always was available to pro­ thing he wouldn't do. He was al­ signed on as a rank-and-file mem­ vide sound advice and leadership," ways receptive to suggestions and ber, as well as after he retired. Campbell said. "He was well or­ new ideas." In 1988 the SIU honored Wil­ ganized and a decent guy to work liams by naming the shiphandling for and with. He had a classy Brother Williams remained ac­ simulator building at the Paul Hall relationship with the members." tive even after he retired from the Center for Maritime Training and SIU. In '79 he was appointed clerk Other Activities Education after him. Though renowned for his work of New Orleans Municipal Court, a "We remember Lindsey Wil­ as an organizer. Brother Williams position which he filled for about 10 liams as a fierce fighter for seamen assumed many other respon­ years. He also was a member of the and boatmen," said SIU President sibilities during his career with the New Orleans Public Belt Railroad Michael Sacco at Brother Williams' SIU. He was the Gulf Coast area Commission and of the state Athletic funeral mass in New Orleans. "We director of the Inland Boatmen's Commission, which regulates remember him as a keen strategist Union from 1961 until 1976, when boxing. and superb union organizer the IBU merged with the SIU's Brother Williams lived in "Although Lindsey technically A&G District. He was the New Or­ Metairie, La. for the last four years. Lindsey Williams (left) worked closely with SIU members and pen­ retired from the SIU in 1979, he leans port agent from 1950 to 1960 He is survived by his wife, Cor­ sioners. He is pictured above counseling Pensioner Arthur A. Smith never really retired from the (having succeeded the late Earl delia; a son, P. Lindsey Williams; a on his retirement benefits. seamen's movement," Sacco con­ Bull" Shepard) and in 1968 he be­ daughter, Estelle Williams Hubtinued. "He never retired from the came a trustee of the Seafarers Pen­ bell; a sister, four stepchildren and trade union movement, and he cer­ sion Plan. two grandchildren. tainly never retired from politics. Herb Brand, chairman of the board of directors of the Transpor­ tation Institute and a longtime as­ Tom Fay has been named vice sociate of the SIU, said Williams president of the Seafarers Harry "was instrumental, he played a Lundeberg School of Seamanship leadership role in every major ef­ in Piney Point, Md. The 35-yeiar fort in which the union was in­ SIU member becomes the fifth per­ volved. He was one of (late SIU son to head the joint union and con­ tracted-company training facility, President) Paul Hall's most highly replacing Ken Conklin, who retire regarded and respected associates. earlier this year. Above all, he was a very direct and Fay brings to the job the exforthright person for which he was lerience of years at sea on board respected everywhere." merchant ships, as well as the Brother Williams, the son of a variety of duties he has held ashore union printer, was bom in Poplaror the union. Prior to accepting the ville. Miss, butspent most of his life assignment, he was serving as port in New Orleans. He began his agent in Honolulu. maritime career in 1935, working Fay joined the Seafarers in Bos­ aboard towboats on the Mississippi ton in 1958. "I was following my Ken Conklin announces his retire­ River, and within a short time he brother, John (the present SIU ment as Lundeberg School VP. began organizing river tug and towsecretary-treasurer), to sea," he boat crewmembers. recalled of his start in the union. in various political and trade union When the United States entered "He already was sailing and I liked activities. Fay and his wife, Doris, have World War II, Williams joined the Jndsey Williams played an active role in virtually every beef in SIU what he told me about it. three daughters: Robin Fay, Anne Seafarers and subsequently sailed listory. Here he hits the bricks with then-SIU President Paul Hall and The Boston native sailed in the Marie Boidi and Donna Lindsey, a in almost every combat zone where allow Seafarers during the Robin Line beef of the early 1960s. engine department and worked his Lundeberg School graduate who way up the ladder to an electrician's rating. Fay worked briefly at SIU sails as chief steward. Conklin came to the Lundeberg headquarters in the early 1960s School in 1967 following a 23-year before returning to sea. He came career in the U.S. Marine Corps ashore again in 1980 as a head­ where he rose from the rank of quarters representative. private to major. In 1987, Fay became the port The Clifton, N.J. native heard agent in Honolulu. While there, he served as a vice president of the from a fellow Marine that the Hawaii AFL-CIO and secretary- school was looking to create a train­ treasurer of the Honolulu Port ing program for young people inter­ Maritime Council. He was involved ested in beginning a career as seamen on U.S.-flag ships. Con­ klin, who had served as a boot camp drill instructor in the service for more than three years, interviewed and was hired for the position. Having been with the facility since its inception, he held a variety of positions at the school. He became Lundeberg School vice president in 1985, serving as the facility's chief officer. Conklin noted one of the most satisfying experiences he had in his 27 years at Piney Point was working with the trainees. "This was a very gratifying job when you are able to use your skills and knowledge to lelp young people become trained Williams was an advocate of effective and ongoing grassroots political action. He worked with many elected officials in the Gulf states in behalf of U.S.-flag shipping. He is pictured above at the May 1963 Tom Fay holds a meeting with and useful members of our society," Lundeberg School staff. le said upon retiring. SlUNA convention, flanked by then-President Paul Hall and Senator Russell Long. , ' -.r. Ken Conklin Retires Tom Fay Heads School . .. ':'M'i.V' )• - .r i-;' .sp -•te'" • w: �mgi'/ 8 SEAFARERS LOG A Message to SlU Members From the Seafarers' Plans (Editor's Note: The following information is provided to Seafarers by the Seafarers Welfare Plan, Seafarers Pension Plan, Seafarers Vaca tion Plan, Great Lakes Tug and Dredge Pension Plan, and Marine Ccoks and Stewards Sup plementary Plan. It is reproduced here in its entirety.) Tlje Seafarers Welfare, Pension and Vacation Plans are in the process of revising the summary plan description booklets which describe your benefits. However, until these booklets will be available, the Trustees would like to notify you o: several recent changes that have been made to these Plans. This article contains important infor mation about the benefits you may be entitled to receive from these Plans. We suggest that you keep this article until you receive the revisec booklets. In addition, the Trustees of the Great Lakes Tug and Dredge Pension Plan and the Marine Cooks & Stewards Supplementary Plan would like to notify participants in these Plans o; some recent changes. OCTOBER 1993 ^ :}•••• • . Pre-retirement Joint and Survivor Annuity The pre-retirement Joint and Survivor Annuity is the benefit that is available to your spouse if you are vested in the Seafarers Pension Plan, but die before you reach retirement age. The Plan now gives your surviving spouse a choice of how they wish this benefit to be paid to them. Pre­ viously, your spouse could not receive this benefit until the date when you would have reached retirement age. Under the new rule, if the total amount of this benefit at your death is less than $3,500, your surviving spouse will receive the entire amount in a lump sum at the time of your death. If the value of this benefit is between $3,500 and $25,000, your surviving spouse may choose to receive the entire amount in a lump sum at the time of your death, or receive it in monthly payments at the time when you would have reached retirement age. Your spouse must make this choice in writing. If the value of the pre­ retirement annuity is greater than $25,000, your spouse must wait until the time you would have reached retirement age, and will then receive the survivor's benefit in monthly payments. SEAFARERS WELFARE PLAN SEAFARERS VACATION PLAN Outpatient Benefits for Dependents There has been one minor change in this Plan, The Trustees are pleased to announce an addi required by a change in the law. In accordance tion to the benefits that are provided by the with the law, the Vacation Plan now honors all Seafarers Welfare Plan. As a result of many lawful levies that are served upon the Plan. The requests from participants, the Union negotiatec Plan will notify you immediate y if a levy against increased contributions to enable the Plan to pay you is received In the event that the Plan should for outpatient care for the dependents o receive i levy for state taxes owed, unpaid employees whose employers are paying the ap­ alimony or child support, or other lawful debt propriate rate. If you are a deep sea employee and owed by you, it will be held for a period of 15 your employer is signatoty to the July 1993 con­ months. If you apply for vacation benefits during tract with American Maritime Association com­ this period, the Plan will deduct the amount re­ panies, you are eligible for this benefit. Other quired by the levy from your vacation check. As deep sea employees and inland employees are required by law, levies received from the Internal eligible if the employer is paying the required Revenue Service for federal income tax owed are rate. The Plan will pay 80% of the reasonable and permanently kept on file by the Vacation Plan, customary charge for diagnostic treatments, visits and will be honored at such time as you apply for to the doctor's office, and certain home health vacation benefits. care and hospice care. This new benefit is subject to an annual deductible amount of $50 per de­ GREAT UKES TUG pendent. AND DREDGE PENSION PLAN Eligibility for Maternity Benefits The Trustees are pleased to inform you of the The Plan has liberalized the eligibility require­ ments for maternity benefits, so that it is now bllowing recent Plan improvements: easier to qualify for this benefit. Under the old tension Increase rule, an employee had to meet the Plan's Pension benefits available from this Plan have eligibility r^uirements at the time of conception been increased approximately twenty percent and at the time of delivery. Under the new rule, 20%). The benefits of existing pensioners has the employee only has to meet the Plan's been increased by this amount, retroactive to Oceligibility requirements at the time of deliveiy. ober 1, 1992. All employees who retired on or Limitations on Benefits after October 1,1992 will receive the new benefit As a result of the rising cost of health care, the evels. Trustees have placed the following restrictions on Withdrawal Benefit the benefits provided by the Welfare Plan: The Trustees have reduced the waiting period Visits to a Podiatrist - The Plan has limited ;o apply for this benefit to one year from the time payment for visits to a podiatrist to 20 visits per an employee leaves covered employment. Pre­ year. The Plan will pay a maximum of $40 for viously, an employee had to wait two years to each podiatrist visit, and no more than $1,000 for apply for this benefit. surgery or related services rendered by a Reimbursement for Type 1 Statement of podiatrist. fcamings Physical therapy, occupational therapy and rehabilitation therapy - The Plan has clarified The Plan will now reimburse a pension apthat it does not cover occupational therapy or >licant for the costs associated with obtaining a rehabilitation therapy. The Plan will pay for up to ~'ype 1 Statement of Earnings from the Social twenty physical therapy visits within a year from Security Administration, when the Type 1 State­ the time treatment begins. ment is required as part of the pension application. ' 'he Plan will only reimburse an employee once or these costs. SEAFARERS PENSION PLAN Cap on Pension Benefits removed MARINE COOKS AND STEWARDS Previously, the maximum monthly pension SUPPLEMENTARY PENSION PLAN benefit that a pensioner could receive was $1,000. The Trustees of this Plan are pleased to an­ The Trustees have removed this cap under the nounce a six percent (6%) increase in benefit following conditions: Deep Sea - Based upon the contribution rate evels. This increase was retroactive to January 1, of all deep sea employers, all deep sea employees 991 for existing pensioners. For all applicants may qualify for the increased benefit. To qualify, who retire on or after January 1,1991, the monthbenefits are calculated based upon the in­ a deep sea employee must accrue 125 days of creased rates. covered employment after June 16, 1993. Inland - Inland employees of companies that If you have any questions about any of the are contributing at least $6.60 per day to the changes described above, you may contact the Seafarers Pension Plan may be eligible for the administrative offices of the Plans by writing to: increased benefit. To qualify, an inland employee Plan Administrator must accrue at least 125 days of covered service 5201 Auth Way after the date their employer began contributing $6.60 per day to the Pension Plan. Camp Springs, MD 20746 Coast Guard Issues New Drug Test Rules New rules implemented by the original rules. The extra testing Coast Guard mean Seafarers will often occurred when mariners not be subjected to as many drug changed jobs or renewed licen­ ses. tests as in the past. When the federal agency im­ The new regulations, an­ nounced in the May 28 edition of plemented its drug testing pro­ the Federal Register and effec­ gram in December 1989, it set up tive as of June 28, permit mer­ five versions of analysis: pre^ chant mariners to be exempt from employment, periodic, post-acci­ pre-employment or periodic tests dent, probable cause and random. if they have passed a Coast All but random began as Guard-required analysis within scheduled. A lawsuit filed by the. the previous six months. The rule SlU and the Transportation In­ also exempts mariners from a pre- stitute, an association of U.S.-flag employment or periodic test if shipping companies, caused the they were subject within the pre­ agency to re-write the regulation vious six months to a Coast Guard dealing with random testing so random testing program for at that it would apply to mariners in shipboard work deemed to be least 60 days. Under the Department of safety sensitive and delay its start Transportation's regulatory for almost two years. Pre-employment testing is regime for drug testing of ship­ board workers, any Se^arer who conducted when a mariner is is sailing in a job deemed to be seeking to go to sea. A periodic safety sensitive is subject to ran­ test is performed when a mariner dom testing. The new exemption renews or upgrades a document or applies whether or not the mem­ license. Post-accident testing takes ber actually was tested while place, as the name implies, ^ter an working on board a ship. Thus, if accident occurs on a vessel. A probable cause test is given a member has worked at least 60 days within the previous 185 days when a crewmember is suspected and did not refuse to take a ran­ as being under the influence dom test, he or she does not have while on board a ship. Random to take a pre-employment or peri­ testing is done by Coast Guardapproved technicians who board odic analysis. The Coast Guard authorized vessels and test crewmembers the change in the drug testing whose jobs are safety sensitive. All the tests are done by regulations to keep mariners from talung any unnecessary or repeti­ urinalysis. Clearance for all tests tive tests required under the is good for six months. Oil Spill Crews Vote Seafarers Continued from page 3 launched 32-foot support boats, one 18-foot search-and-rescue boat, a helicopter landing pad and a stem-mpunted skimmer. Each vessel also contains booms, skim­ mers, transfer pumps, power packs, storage bladders, dispersants and protective clothing. Each can hold 4,000 barrels of recovered oil. Located Around Nation Vessels located along the At­ lantic coast include the Maine Responder at Portland, Maine; New Jersey Responder, Perth Amboy, N.J.; Delaware Responder, Philadelphia, Pa.; Virginia Responder, Virginia Beach, Va.; Georgia Responder, Savannah, Ga. and Florich Responder, Miami, Fla. Assigned to the Gulf coast are the Louisiana Responder in Venice, La.; Gulf Responder, Lake Charles, La.; Texas Responder, Galveston, Texas and Lone Star Responder, Corpus Christi, Texas. Serving the Pacific coast are the Washington Responder, Everett, Wash.; Oregon Responder, Astoria, Ore.; Pacific Responder, Richmond, Calif, and California Responder, Port Hueneme, Calif. The Caribbean Responder based in St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands and the Hawaii Responder located in Honolulu serve the region for which they are named. Mate Matt FrankowskI checks fuel on a rescue boat aboard the Delaware Responder. Ready to report for duty on the Delaware Responder are Oiler Jessica Slate (left), AS Randy Attaway (center) and Asst. Eng. David Hall. �OCTOBER 1993 UAFAKIKUIG Challenger Crewmemhers On Call During Port Call I' '• wmiO'iKtfn r.V,'" , •WM '^•v.. j.' t: - • '-"4' • Bosun J. Rodriguez keeps watch on deck activities during offloading. Arrival at the Sea-Land terminal in Port Elizabeth, N.J. means a variety of things to crewmemhers aboard the SeaLand Challenger. When the container ship docks after its 28 day voyage to Jacksonville, Fla. and the Caribbean, some engine depart­ ment members begin the process of preparing refrigerated boxes for offloading. Chief Electrician Curtis Smith and Engine Utility Abby Aragones work the vessel to make sure the right electrical cords are unplugged or remain in service. Others, like OMUs Rafael Quinonez and Rafael Duran, maintain a watch in the engineroom to assist wherever they are needed. In the galley. Chief Steward Herbert Scypes and Chief Cook George Salazar have the freezer and refrigerator ready for the new stores that will come aboard. Bosun J. Rodriguez keeps an eye on the gangway watch as well as offloading and loading operations on deck. Bosun Rodriguez noted to a visiting Seafarers LOG reporter that the teamwork among the crew is great: "Like other SIU ships I've sailed on, this is a great crew who knows its job and how to get it done right." - ~• r ^ 4 Chief Steward Herbert Scypes (right) and SIU Assistant Vice President Kermett Mangram go over the procedure for filing medical care claims with the Seafarers Welfare Plan. U:4;S<' 4^-'4''-: '4 • • 'v)'--- >..' '•''-J}-^•' Ready to take advantage of some Maintaining gangway watch is AB Chief Electrician Curtis Smith (right) reviews the list of Chief Cook George Salazar reads shore time is OMU Jesus Vazquez. Robert Bakerman. reefers to be disconnected with Third Mate Kris Katandy. LOGwithAB Juan Ayala in background. 1. ' V • ;"' ,r '2i' i ' ' ->,>V. .J -- '• '' s • / 'S./ • •: ' ^ a. qwanninn a storv about a recent voyage with New York AB Raul Rivera walks into the gal- Heading for town are AB Abad Calero OMU Rafael Quinonez climbs owapping u auwui « ^ ley for lunch. floftl and SA Anancio Cresoo. down into the engineroom. enoineroom. (left) Crespo. Patrolman Jack Sheehan (left) is OMU Rafael Duran a. - : // '-10 •- t;' . . •/ - y..•' -aaLia-' ^ .• ^yyyy mS'-':-/ • J '•••.'^yyy^yyyfyyyy'i-^-'-y �10 Still Needs Seafarers' Skills On Sam Laud « few • -• ' OarORER 1993 SEAFARERS LOG To ensure fast offloading of cargo along the many ports on the Great Lakes, vessels such as the SlU-crewed Sam Laud are designed to handle the procedure quickly and efficiently through self-unloading equipment. The American Steamship Company vessel was built with a conveyor boom system that allows iron ore, coal, stone and most any other cargo earned during the sailing season to be taken directly from the ship to shoreside storage. •, n Once docked, the conveyor boom is released from its secured position on the deck above the hatch covers and swung over the site where the cargo is to be deposited. A conveyor belt which runs the length of the ship under the cargo hatches is started. Gatemen and conveyormen watch the offloading and release cargo from designated holds until the job is completed. Then the vessel is secured agaiii and sails to its next port to either offload or take on more cargo. Making sure the Sam Laud is ready for action each day are Conveyorman John Frankovich and Gateman Randy Frank. The pair maintains the watch on the vessel's offloading system. "Half of the rollers have to be changed every year," Frank told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG. He ex­ plained the rollers, which guide the conveyor belt, are made of teflon and get "chewed up" with constant use. lookout for anything that could hamper conveyor Lcond cook Roy calodeiiand Porter Rob"^eS^ are prepared for a brief afternoon visit to town. operations on the vessel. Making sure an oil drum is transferred safely from one deck of the ship to another is Wiper John Olsen. Shifting the hatch cover lift on the deck of the Sam Laud is AB/Watchman Mike Bensman. Deckhand Al Damar reports for duty aboard the Looking forward to some time off the Sam Laud is American Steamship Company vessel. QMED Gary Fuller. '• '7: • Conveyor belt roller replacement requires working in tight spaces Keeping an eye on the loading operations at the Lorain, as Conveyorman John Frankovich knows well. Ohio dock is AB/Watchman Tim Bell. M^y<:rV ^ / / Gateman Randv Frank maintainc: an annineroom w^h ^ we isloadSSlip �r m :,V. ocmERim SEAFAKffS LOG 11 Bunker Work Picks Up for Crowley Seafarers Seafarers who work stVtnarA Tmmtni of Commerce. aboard Journal Crowley tugs and barges in the This increase in business fol­ Lbs Angeles and Long Beach, lows two inauspicious years, and Calif, areas have noticed an in­ it is not the only good news for crease in the volume of bunker marine fuel suppliers in the area. fuel being trafficked in and out of Recently, marine fuel was ex­ West Coast ports, SIU Patrolman empted from the 4.3 cents-perRob Scrivens recently told the gallon fuel tax called for in Seafarers LOG. President Clinton's deHcit reduc­ Since late last year, when a tion plan, thereby saving the com­ state tax on bunker fuel was petitive West Coast market. repealed, sales have increased Because of low trading mar­ gradually to approximately 1.8 gins, taxes on marine fuel can million to 2.5 million barrels per have massive impact on the in­ month in Los Angeles/Long dustry. For example, two years Beach, according to reports in the ago the California Legislature ap- o ne provedi an 8.25 percent. .tax^ on bunker fuel. Sales in Los An­ geles/Long Beach quickly and dramatically dropped, and it hardly seems coincidental that those fortunes began to reverse as soon as the tax was repealed. For SIU members who sail from the port of Wilmington, Calif, aboard Crowley vessels, the tax relief translates into a busy schedule transporting fuel barges and loading tankers in nearby Long Beach and Los Angeles. "We really shot ourselves in the foot with that tax," said tugboat Captain Scott Linsley. 'Everyone is glad it's gone." Tankerman Mickey Main, who- graduated from the Lundeberg School in 1977, said that business slowly is coming back, but is nowhere near its pre-bunker tax level. "We've been doing a lot of dock-to-dock work, moves in the harbor," said Main. "We've also done quite a bit of450 Series On the flying bridge of the Crowley tug Saturn, AS Mike Prevette talks barges, moving oil from San with the captain by walkie-talkie. Francisco to here. Compared to a - ';h Cook/Utility William Rose (right) welcomes Patrolman Robert Scrivens aboard the Crowley tug Saturn. year ago at this time, work has picked up." "We have some of the guys back on schedule. It really helped having that tax removed," noted Scrivens, who provided the photos accompanying this story. Exposal Foreign Shipping interests Unmasked < 'v' . Continued from page 3 Bermuda, the U.K., Luxembourg and Norway among others. • Manchester Trade is an interna­ tional trade consulting organization. It is the creature of Stephen L. Lande, a former trade official for the U.S. govern­ ment. Lande parlayed his experience into a lengthy list of foreign clients. Among Lande's foreign clients are the Korean Foreign Trade Association (South Korea), Fidermex International (Mexico), Hylsa (Mekico), Tubos de Acero de Mexico, Association of Export and Import (Costa Rica), Wiresteel Mexico) and Mexinox SA de CV Mexico). Manchester Trade also is one of the Irms the government of Mexico has registered as an agent that is working in Mexico's behalf for enactment of the North American Free Trade Agreement NAFTA), now before the U.S. Con­ gress. Lande also has been associated in )ress reports with Manchester As­ sociates, a lobby firm headed by William iberle, another former U.S. government International Plot Seen to Invade U.S. Waters trade official, who serves as an agent for many foreign interests. Manchester Associates has worked as a consultant and lobbyist for the J^anese company Nissan and represents or has rep­ resented other Japanese interests as well as groups from Korea, Canada, Chile and Mexico, among others. At one time, Roderick Hills also had an interest in Manchester Trades. Hills, who since 1989 has headed Manchester Group Ltd., is an attorney whose name has often been linked with assisting foreign groups. In 1987, for example, he worked to kill a congressional bill contain­ ing punitive measures toward C. Itoh, a giant Japanese trading house. The intent of the bill was to punish the foreign firm for its role in the illegal shipping of Toshiba Corp.-produced military machinery. (Paranthetically, C. Itoh is one of the players of the North American Export Grain Association, a group of giant agricul­ tural commodity dealers—^many of them foreign-owned—working to scuttle U.S. cargo preference laws.) All the evidence indicates that Presi­ dent Clinton and his officials are com­ pletely unaware of the spurring role of foreign interests in the current assault on U.S. shipping. Nevertheless, much of the thinking of these foreign interests seems to have made its way into the first draft of Vice President Gore's National Perfor­ mance Review maritime document which called for an elimination of the Jones. Act, repeal of cargo preference statutes, abolishment of the Shipping Act of 1984 and a cessation of any form of subsidy to the maritime sector. The foreign interests appear to be set on a massive mobilization against the U.S. merchant marine. It can be deduced that foreign interests have pledged a great deal of financial resources to the fight. Interna­ tional attorneys, accountants and foreign agents calling themselves trade consultants do not work for pennies. As reported in the South China Morn­ ing Post article, there is no mention in the foreign group's statement of the value of a U.S.-flag shipping capability to America's defense and security interests or to the role the U.S. merchant marine has played in times of war and conflict The group seems bent on going beyond dismantling America's interna­ tional shipping programs; it appears to be gunning directly for the Jones Act, the U.S. cabotage laws which allocate marine transport in American coastal and inland waters to American-built Americanoperated and U.S.-crewed vessels. The moves of the well-heeled foreign interests threaten every coastal com­ munity, large or small, along America's 25,777 miles of coast and inland water­ ways. The elimination of the Jones Act America's Needs Unconsidered would deprive these communities of an It is estimated that very substantial employment source, revenue from taxes sums of money are being expended to and bring down environmental and carry out a plan to lobby for a downsize safety standards. ^ ing of the American merchant marine on The results of further investigations the grounds that all the perpetrators by the Seafarers LOG on the work of would be amply rewarded if the inland foreign interests to disband American and international U.S.-flag fleet is shipping will appear in upcoming issues replaced by foreign shipping. of die publication. Pro U.S. Flag Group to Fight Attacks on American Ship Trades Continued from page 3 In a roll-up-the-sleeves-and-get-to..'ork approach, the coalition's participants w established a steering committee as well as working groups to tackle legislative strategies, public affairs and grassroots obbying. James Henry, the president of the Transportation Institute, a trade as­ sociation representing U.S.-flag vessel operators in domestic and international commerce, was appointed to chair the new coalition. The umbrella group pledged to cwrdinate activity in all parts of the United States, in every state and congressional district. The group determined it is vitally im­ portant to form a pro U.S. merchant marine education group particularly in light of an intense lobbying effort by foreign shipping interests which has been made known through an article in a Hong Kong newspaper. The article, entitled "Lobby Group Seeks Backing for U.S. Plans" (by Wong Joon San, South China Morning the Jones Act, cargo preference and the U.S. market would effectively be opened up to foreign operators for the first Post, September 20,1993, page 1), points operating and construction subsidies. to an aggressive and well-coordinated at­ tack on both the U.S.-flag domestic and Such an unraveling of American maritime international fleet on the part of a group of international accountants, lawyers and laws and regulations would "open U.S.-flag trade consultants (see article on page 3). Foreign Groups Pressing These foreign lobbyists, euphemistical­ ly identified in the article as a "group of professionals," hope to see the dismantling of the programs tifiat provide the founda­ tion of U.S. maritime policy. Such an un­ raveling of American maritime laws and regulations would "open U.S.-flag trade to foreign-built and repaired carrier lines, foreign investors and foreign crews," reports the article. The foreign lobbyists, says the article, back a draft proposal of Vice President A1 Gore's National Performance Review (NPR) which calls for a complete elimina­ tion of U.S. government laws and regula­ tions that bolster a U.S.-flag fleet such as trade to foreign-built and repaired carrier lineSy foreign investors and foreign crews. »> South China Morning Post, page 1 September 20,1993, Hong Kong The article reports that a statement by these foreign lobbyists says if the recom­ mendations of the Gore group "come to pass, the world shipping industry stands to gain significant opportunities to expand dieir business." The article reveals that the foreign in­ terests believe they can achieve their goal by exerting influence through lobbying. TTie statement of the so-called internation­ al group cited in the article says: "Indeed time, provided a concerted lobbying coali­ tion is forged." Immediate Action After a discussion on the article, the September 23 meeting participants desig­ nated "United States Maritime Coalition" as the name of the new organization and outlined a program of action. Upcoming issuesof the LOG will report on the coalition's activities. m If •% .4 &:• w •si: '•h- �12 OCWRER1993 SEAFARERS LOG Seafarers Begin Operations On Twin-Hulled Survey The first Seafarers ever aboard the USNS Victorious, a new Small Waterplane Area Twin Hull (SWATH) design T-AGOS ves­ sel, sailed out of the port of Honolulu on August 19. The Victorious, owned by the Military Sealift Command (MSG) and operated by U.S. Marine Management, is used for Ocean surveillance purposes. The SWATH ship's home port is Honolulu. It is designated to per­ form highly classified missions for the U.S. Navy. The unique vessel is 234 feet long, 93 feet wide, has a 24-foot draft and a top speed of 9.5 knots. It is designed to comfortably sus­ tain rough seas so that the tech­ nicians aboard can safely carry out the current assignment. The Victorious is one of four 'T-AGOS 19" SWATH vessels. These are the newest class of TAGOS vessels. The remaining three—the Able, Effective and Loyal—have not begun sailing Operations. "She has nice quarters and living conditions for everyone aboard," Captain Carl Orderich, Pacific operations manager for U.S. Marine Management, told z reporter from the Seafarers LOG "Each room will have a video player and television. There is also an exercise room, ship's store, a self-service laundry and a medical treatment facility. The Victorious has almost everything a person needs while at sea for a period of time and the SWATH design makes her a ve^ comfort­ able vessel to sail on." Honolulu Port Agent J.J. Ar­ nold, who provided the LOG with the photographs accompanying this article, reported the crew was excited to sail aboard the new vessel. "It's unlike anything I've ever seen for the type of ship it is," Arnold noted."The crew couldn't wait to get it out to sea." This is the first time aboard a SWATH vessel for these two PIney Point graduates—OSs Joe Meehan (left) and Fred Fein. SlU crewmembers gather for a group photo before setting sal! on their first military mission aboard the USNS Victorious. They are (from left) AB Jocko Morris, Bosun Samuel Wooten, MDR Jerry Huffman and OSs Fred Fein and Joe Meehan. • ; >• The unique SWATH hull of the USNS Victorious was designed to sustain rough conditions at sea. .ooking fonvard to the new adventure are (from left) Steward/Baker Susan Sanderson, AB William Brode and Oiler Tina Smith. USNS Bartlett Turned Over to Moroccan Navy • I- ^ ,1^ fastfrlends Is QMED Alan Ard (left). Seafarers aboard the USNS Bartlett bid farewell to their ves­ sel on July 26 in a special ceremony as the U.S. flag was lowered and the Moroccan flag raised. This symbolic gesture marked the official turnover of the Bay Ship Management vessel to the Royal Moroccan Navy at Little Creek Amphibious Base in Virginia Beach, Va. Bosun Thomias Gagnon, who served several tours aboard the Bartlett, told a repOTter fiom the SecfarersLOG, "I really enjoyed the ship and I hated to see her go." "Everyone hates to lose a good AB Michael Williams, who also served several tours aboard the ves­ sel. On July 12, all operations aboard the Bartlett were tumed over to the Moroccan NaVy. The vessel is an oceanographic TAGOS ship which sailed the Gulf of Mexico area with a team of Navy scientists, performing high­ ly classified missions. "We had both crews aboard own active oceanographic inter­ ests. The vessel was in excess of the U.S. Navy's needs and was sold to Morocco, a U.S. ally. On July 18, the vessel left port for Morocco. QMED Alan Ard, sailed with the Bartlett to assist the new crew with operations. Anne Novotny, a Bay Ship Management representative, provided the photos accompany­ ing this article. Woman of the Year always brought me back to ibc Bartlett—the people," recalled AB Richard HIgglns (left) and Chief Cook Jeanette Ball pose with a member of the Moroccan Navy during training aboard the Bartlett. the vessel for about two weeks. The SIU crew trained the Moroc­ cans in many different areas to prepare them for when they sailed the vessel back to Morocco. They even prepared their native food using the American stores," recalled Captain Sam Meyer. According to a spokesperson for Bay Ship Management, the SlU and Moroccan Navy crewmembers lower the American flag on Bartlett was offered to the Royal board the USNS Bartlett and prepare to raise the Moroccan ensign. Moroccan Navy to pursue their At a recent banquet In Pittsburgh, Pa., Mary Georghlou was named Woman of the Year by the Daughters of Penelope, the women's auxiliary of the Order of AHEPA (the American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association), the largest Greek heritage organization In ^e world and a major community service organization In North America. In photo atiove, Georghlou, who has worked at the SIU since 1981, previously as comptrollerforthe Seafarers Vacation Plan ^d presently as director of process and development, poses with Sen. Paul Sartjanes (D-Md.), who also was presented an award at the AHEPA convention. /. • 3'..' . • �I! •/'¥ OCTOBER 1993 SEAFARERS LOG 13 -' • 'V.V- ' •^-^^i<5?'Pia5i7:rer ••;•••' •' '• v.: V-• Executive VP Joseph Sacco explains provisions of the new ETC contract to crewmembers aboard the LNG Leo. Thorough discussions and question-andanswer sessions preceded ratification votes by Seafarers aboard the eight liquified natural gas (LNG) vessels for a new three-year agree­ ment with Energy Transportation Corpora­ tion. SIU Executive Vice President Joseph Sacco boarded several of the LNG vessels when they docked in Japan to talk with crewmembers about the questions they had about the pact, which included a cumulative 11 percent base pay raise over three years, out­ patient medical care for the members' spouses and dependents, a lifting of the $1,000 monthly pension cap for qualified Seafarers and more. SIU Representative Sal Aquia, who accom­ panied Sacco to Japan, provided the Seafarers LOG with photographs of the ratification meet­ ings on seven of the LNG ships. Asking a question of Executive VP Joseph Sacco (right) aboard the LNG Taurus is Steward/Baker Francis Ostendorf. On the LNG Leo, Executive VP Joseph Sacco (left) em­ phasizes a point with QMED irmo Solomon. Reviewing an aspect of the new ETC pact are (left to right) Capricorn Steward/Baker NOrman Duhe (left) and OS Robert Sway, AB William Boyd, SA Ronnie Fore and Bosun Charles Kahl (right) catch upon union news Executive VP Joseph Sacco on the LA/G Capr/com. with Executive VP Joseph Sacco. Ready to take part in the ratification meeting on the LNG Virgoare (left to right) AB H.J. Thompson, Chief Cook Henry Daniels, SA William Smailey and AB Harry Massa. LNG Aries crewmembers study the new agreement before voting. AB Donnie Collins from the LNG Gemini looks over the new contract Showing approval for the contract are AB Osmond Raji (left) and OS Kenneth Boone aboard the Aquarius. Listening to the discussion of about the pact are r Seafarers aboard the LNG Gemini. - W t04&^W :•'.: v'.-V ••:. Prior to the contract meeting, LNG Taurus OSs Mark Johnson catch up on news from the union in the Seafarers LOG. Bosun Jack Rhodes (left) of the Wrgo and AB After the vote, Anes crewmembers (left to right) OS Bobby Branham of the Aquarius examine the Ken Mills, Bosun Billie Dartey and AB Peter Funk are all smiles. �. ^.1-: ... ... <• . . itsm--i-;.-:rjs« ''t'M -'-s.r-.v. ••: .•. OCTORER1993 SEAFARERS LOG "•.': ^' 0CT03ER1993 SEAFARERS LOG 15 ; VV;i sign In at the tured from left to right (back row only) are Port Agent Anthony McQuay, OMU Paul Pagano, QMED John Bennifield, QMED John Penrose, DEL) Donald Davis, AB Matt Hamison, Steward/Baker Leonard Murray and AB Thomas Gruber. In Philadelphia, Bosun Roland Williams (left) and OS Billy Holmes like what they hear about the agreement. s Recert. Steward Ekow Doffoh in Philadelphia Electrician Gregory Shepard in Piney Point QMED R.J. Zajac in Philadelphia Bosun Oscar Wiley in Piney Point Chief Steward Dave Merrifield in Piney Point AB Joe Caruso in New York Cook/Baker Richard Aversa in Piney Point AB Darryl Peterson" in Piney Point Reviewing details of the contract in the September issue of the Seafarers LOG is QMED Thomas Martinez at the SID hall in Philadelphia. Seafarers across the country hit the deck to discuss the new agreement during ratification meetings. QMED Mike Kirby votes in Philadelphia Membership Ratifies Standard Agreement lp:.y At the Philadelphia hall (left) and the Norfolk hall, members show their support for the new pact. .-'K- QMED Monte Pryor. reviews new contract in Seattle. ; "V;-: V:.' Bosun/AB Jose Caballero chats with his son, Urie, at the New York meeting •' j: Seafarers aboard the MV Senator vote on the contract on September 17. lU members ports throuehouii ; 1 at r—-^-"eiiuuis Bosun Robert Gorbea hit the services to, Seafarers' dependents At T r •. ® the United States and in Puerto! . deck during the meeting in New. will be paid by the plan subject to a rtoi Rico and aboard ships docked"' — York and said, "We ought to be $50 per year deductible for each dein I the U.S. last month overwhelmingly i proud of what our union has done for pendent, approved a new three-year standard: us. What was negotiated for our penAmong the outpatient services r and tanker •'••"AvwA contract) wv/iiiiauu freightship sions is good, and our new dependent now covered by the Seafarers Welnegotiated by fW.. the c.>„f Seafarers T_. Interna­ care also is good." fare Plan for dependents are doctors' tional Union, Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes Fellow Bosun Earl (Sonny) office visits, diagnostic tests, prenaand Inland Waters District with deep^ Pinkbam added to Gorbea's senti- tal care and follow-up care, pediatric sea operators in the management ; ments, saying after the meeting: "It care and routine checkups for babies, group known as the American i was a good job negotiating, especially physicals and vaccinations. (The Maritime Association. with the economic times the way they new outpatient benefit plan does not The agreement, covering the time i are.' extend to prescription drugs.) from June 16, 1993 until June 15, i — , In Philadelphia, Recertified Members expressed satisfaction 1996, calls for a 3-4-4 percent wage j Steward Andrew Austin said, "The with the health care gains made in the increase (totalling 11 percent) over! SIU really came through for us. This new agreement. "Dependent care is the nextX.Ithree years andJ extends ..t. out­ is a great new contract." what a lot of people need for their patient medical benefits to depend­ Medical Coverage Extended families. This helps a lot," said Chief ents of Seafarers.iThe ffV,contract ^rnnn also —1 Other members commented on Charlie DiCanio after the allowsforremovaloftheSLOOOper. the parts of the contract that mean the ^ „ month limit on pensions, and con-^ most to them QMED Mike McNally, in tains certain ...... work rule changes. In PhilaMphia.desci:itedtheimprov^ addition, the manning levels current­ dependent iovJrage," said AB "1^''"..^"=5'® ^ T'*??? ly in place ares retained. Patrick Joseph Lavin, who was "''ded. It will make a big difference Theratificationvotetookplaceati foUowfor Seafeers like myself who have a special meetingsc in every SIU hall on ing the meeting in New York. family. September 7. SIU representatives In Norfolk, QMED Mike Novak Pension Changes Praised also conducted meetings and voting added, "I think the contract is great. Chief Cook Bert Winfield, who aboard Seafarers-contracted ships particularly the medical attended the meeting in Norfolk, said ' ' but UUL l/d. that came to port beginning Septem-1 benefits mefits." the improved medical benefits are ber 7. The agreement calls for an in- one of the highlights of the new conAmong the comments on the j creased contribution on the part of tract, along with the removal of the overall accord were those stated by \ contracted companies which are cap from the pension plan. "The new AB Curtis Williams following the signatory to the pact and to the arrangement on the pension plan is unanimous vote at the Norfolk, Va.; Seafarer plans. As a result of these great. Tome, that's probably the best hall. "I feel really good about the additional monies, the board of trus- part." Winfield said, contract. We got better benefits and tees of the Seafarers medical plan, Steward/BakerLorenzoSykesof a pay increase. I m definitely Vnou/n thf». .^eafarpirs View of the known as the Seafarers Welfare Norfolk summed un up his view happy," he said. Plan, voted to put in place a series of contract when he said, "We gained a outpatient benefits for dependents of lot and I think it's fantastic, '^e Seafarers, subject to all the rules and chance to eam more for your pension regulations which govern the pro- is outstanding." gram. (Complete details of the contract Under terms of the plan, 80 per- appear in last month's issue of the cent of the reasonable and customary Seafarers LOG and also are available charges for outpatient health care from all SIU port agents.) Aboard the Sea-Land Challenger, AB Juan Ayala (left) makes a point while AB Raul Rivera listens. In San Juan, members listen to details of the three-year pact. lall in Jacksonville for the special voting meeting September 7. . ' A'.'v' ' Upgraders at Piney Point approve the new contract. IV It Is a unanimous vote of approval In Philadelphia. ' 'C ' '• I I' «• j; « I i 'i?.. • ..i .i ' .I.'T'.IJI I ,1,1 !•••• .^1I IMII mil -.J. I , X In New York, Chief Steward Alvin Standing In unanimous support of the pact are Seafarers at the hall Robinson Is satisfied with the vote. In Mobile, Ala. Discussing terms of the new agreement In the Seattle hall are (from left) AB Victor Peters and Recertified Bosuns Bob Stuverud and Bob Woods. From left. Bosun Archie Ware, Electrician Richard Almojera and Chief Steward Cyril Spence check out the contract In New York. ' : -.1- ' — AB Patrick Joseph LavIn Sr (left, with son Patrick Jr.) and Bosun Archie Ware listen to the debate at the New York meeting. I Li'i I i I,',m' 'MM .• . , . • A:-.f- Attending the special meeting In San Francisco, Seafarers prepare to vote on the new standard contract, which Includes wage gains and Improved benefits. li^ Signing in at 1 Cook Robert Allen. ' I . • II " • Iiiri 11 . V • ~ • •. „ ' L I ' X ' ' ' ' J. ' . :.v �16 0Cn0ER1993 SEAFARERS LOG Steel Ships and Iron Men: Part V BY SINCLAIR OUBRE Father Sinclair Oubre is Port Chaplain in Beau­ mont, Texas and an SlU member. He sails during time off from his duties as a parish priest and port chaplain. Sinclair Oubre Father Oubre has kept a journal during his seafaring voyages. In the August edition of the Seafarers LOG several excerpts from his diary v^erepublished. What follows are some additional glimpses into Father Oubre's life aboard ship. Cleaning the Tanks Supper tonight was relaxed and jovial. My fellow crewmates talked and laughed more than usual. We are sitting at anchorJust outside Galveston Bay. Tomorrow we will be heading back into Hess Refinery in Galena Park. After working hard all week, today has been easy and laid back. Only one fellow turned to for overtime this morning; it was only he and I who worked overtime this afternoon. The other ABs and OSs who were off watch chose to sleep in or take care of some much neglected housekeeping duties in their staterooms. For the last three-and-a-half days, we have really been humping it. We are taking on a different product at Hess this next trip. Shortly after we left Beaufort, the deck crew began drag­ ging out the lines and hoses that would be needed for the blowers and the butterworth machines. Beginning the next morning, we carried thefour machines to each of the 18 tanks that would take on cargo. There was a method to the process that was truly understood only by the bosun and the chief mate. The process would go something like this. We would drop the 20-pound butterworth machine attached to a spe­ cial water hose through a deck plate into the tank. Fifteen feet of hose would be lowered in and secured on top by a special saddle. The water would be turned on and we would hunker down on our backsides for ex­ actly 20 minutes. By that time, the machine had sprayed sea water throughout the tank, washing down all the spaces at that level. We would then loosen the saddle and drop the butterworth machine down another 15 feet and hunker down again. It was at about this point that I was beginning to think that this was the easiest $8.82 that I had ever made, but then things began to pick up speed. Instead of having to wet nurse one machine, it became four. Once the tanks had been washed and the butterworth machine pulled from the tank, a water driven blower was inserted into the deck opening to force out the fumes and begin to dry the tank. By early afternoon, hunkering down was only a sweaty memory. It was pull up one machine, disconnect the hose, reconnect the hose, drop the machine down the first 15 feet and turn on the water. We would clamber across the pipes and repeat the process for the two machines on the starboard side. No time to sit, move the blowers into place and start them going. Six­ teen minutes now have pass^. We have four minutes to wait before it's time to drop another 15 feet down. One can't really sit down or take off one's gloves widi only four minutes. So we shuffle about until the bosun gives the word, and the cycle continues again. All day we worked. At 1930 hours the bosun sent the quartermaster and me to get cleaned up for our watch. From the bridge, the last hoses came out of the tanks at 2030 and the tank cleaning was done for the day. The next day the fun really began. Into the tanks we went with our mops and brooms, sponges and pails. We looked like a bedraggled maid service. Carefully we descended the 50 feet or so to the bottom of the tank. One of the men had his cigarettes in his shirt pocket. The bosun thought this was not a good idea. Maybe in the midst of work, he would declare a cigarette break and light one up. Theologically, this may have brought the kingdom of God sooner than any of us wanted or were ready for. The cigarettes stayed topside. Once we made it to the bottom, the adventure had only just begin. The bot­ tom of each tank is divided into sec­ tions by structural ribs and bulkheads. Each rib rose four to five feet from the bottom of the tank. At each rib, over went the mops and brooms, pails, sponges and then ourselves. Six times this ritual was repeated until we were at the forward bulkhead. Then it was sweep and mop, brush up rust, climb over to the next section and sweep and mop, and brush up rust. This was repeated over and oyer until we were back to the ladder. The chief mate checked each tank to make sure that they were gas free. This is a little bit of a misnomer. Ac­ tually, they were "pass-out" free. A seaman could enter the tank and at least for the first 30 minutes not pass out because of the fumes. They definitely were not "gas free." The mo­ ment we entered a tank, we clearly sensed that petroleum products had been here before us. For myself, my eyes burned, nose ran and the strangest, single, unidentifiable bar of music kept playing in my ears. It was like something from an old "Doors" record. It kept playing and playing and playing. In one tank it got so loud that it became a warning. Then it stopped, but for a moment all other sounds also stopped. I guess it was time to get out of Aere for a bit of fresh air, and up we went. . After I reflected on the event for a moment, trying to purge the fiimes from the bottom of my lungs, two thoughts came to mind. The first was a question. If I went to the mess room right now and lit up a cigar, would my lungs explode? My second thought was; Now isn't this wonderful. I've got my own gas detector in my head. If the tune doesn't drive me crazy in the meantime, when it stops I'd better be ready to get out. If I don't, the crew is going to have fun pulling my 200pound body out of the tank on Ae end of a hose. I'm afraid that if they are faced with that much work, they may pronounce me lost overboard and wash me into the slop tank. It took us two whole days of sweep­ ing, mopping and sponging out the rust and water from the t^s. When we were finished, the chief mate and the bosun were pleased with the quality of our efforts. We knew ourselves that the job was hard, hot and difficult, but we had done well. That night, instead of the usual somber silence that is present among most of the men in the mess, there was lighthearted talk and sea stories that usually revolved around some cultural faux pas dn the part of the storyteller. Ted, one of our ABs, began the evening's sea tales with a dramatic telling of his Filipino shower. Having worked hard all day, he returned to the home of his Filipino friends. He inquired if it would be OK for him to shower. They kindly obliged and pointed him in the direction of the shower. When he arrived in the room, he could not find anything that ap­ peared to be a convention^ shower. No plumbing, no faucets and no shower heads were in sight. The only thing that appeared useful for washing was a 55-gdlon drum and a large ladle. As Ted explained it, he figured that one used the barrel as a bath tub and in he went. Standing and animating the story now, he told us that washing the upper body was easy. It was more difficult to get to the feet, but through contortions and effort, he was able to pull each one waist high and so do some good scrub­ bing. When all was said and done, he returned back to his friends' company. They were nonplussed as he thanked them for their landness and their help in dealing with his western hygienic needs. In true Asian form, they with­ held their rage and panic at what they heard. Ted, you see, had just cleaned himself in thefresh water that the fami­ ly had for the whole month. It was for washing, drinking and cooking. Ted had just soaked himself in it. Some of the other stories that were told were funnier but not exactly fit for a family publication. Let it be said that once the many difficult days of clean­ ing tanks were completed, the whole psychology of the crew changed from somber silence to jovial joy. You Never Hear How the Story Ends Standing at the helm, the radio set at channel 16,1listen to the occasional traffic that floats by. One vessel is call­ ing for another and asking to go to channel whatever, or the marine operator breaks in and calls for some unseen vessel because she has traffic. Most of the time, though, the radio sits silently in the comer. The other night, the silence was broken by the message, "Security, Security, this is the Coast Guard Sta­ tion Key West, Florida. Please go to channel 22 alpha for a mariner's ad­ visory." The third mate shifts the radio over and the Coast Guard repeats their call sign and then says, "Be advised that a small vessel with 10 Haitian refugees is reported disabled and adrift at coordinates such and such. Be dn the lookout for the vessel and render aid or contact Coast Guard Station Key West." So ended the message. The mate had already noted the coordinates and began plotting them on the chart. He raised his head and said, "That's right off our port beam." ITie night was pleasant and the seas were calm, but there were thunderstorm clouds all around. We had noticed on the radar a vessel off our port First she sailed west, then southwest and then east. We figured that she must have been the Coast Guard. We sailed on eastward keeping a sharp lookout but seeing nothing. Today, the radio told another story. A pleasure boat was calling out for help. "On fire," he told the Coast Guard. He gave his coordinates and they assured him that a rescue vessel was on the way. The Coast Guard of­ ficer advised the captain of the vessel to have all passengers don life jackets. The boat's captain replied that pas­ sengers were already in the water with their personal flotation devices, and he was fighting the fire with an extin­ guisher but that it was mnning low. At this point I was relieved from the helm and returned to the deck to con­ tinue the butterworthing process. I have heard other such events over the radio. Only on one occasion did I find out how it ended. Now questions arise in my mind. Was the Haitian vessel found? Was she lost with the hopes and dreams of those 10 people going down with her? Or was one spate of bad luck only followed by another and another? Did the rescue by Ae Coast Guard only lead to their being placed in a refugee camp and shipped back to Haiti the next week? A seaman hears these events un­ folding over the airwaves, but seldom does he see them or does he get in­ volved. He carries around the begin­ nings of these stories, but there is no way to find the ending. By morning we were in the Atlantic with cargo bound for Jacksonville. Farewell After 26 days, I signed off the Sealift Pacific. It was time to get back to the parish and get to work. The chief mate and bosun wished me well and told me that they enjoyed sailing with me. If I were to have the chance to join the Pacific again, they would be happy to have me. This meant a lot to me. I was departing from Corpus Christi. We had gotten stuck hanging out on anchor when another ship took our slip at Coastal Refinery. When we were finally cleared to start in, I was off watch and joined another Port Arthur seaman who was on bow watch. It is always beautiful up there. Soon the tugs came alongside and it was time for all hands to be called. I went aft to get my gloves and assisted the bosun preparing the gangway for arrival. When we arrived at the dock, the tugs turned usso that we docked on the starboard side. Eve^thing was going well on the stem until the clowns in the line boat insisted on taking the spring and breast lines at once. By the time they got to the dolphins, they had managed to get all three twisted over each other. Y^Hien we began to heave on them, they bound up at the chock. It was a tough situation for the third mate. He looked as though he was not in control of the situation, but what was out of control were the yahoo's in the line boat. We eventually got things somewhat sorted out and then tum^ our attention to the stem lines. We had to put so much line out to reach the dolphin that our winches could not effectively pull up the slack. We tried on three occasions to lift the lines out of the water, but each time we put on the stoppers and turned the lines over the bitts, they dropped back into the water. It did not look good, but we eventually gave in and squared every­ thing away. As a final ceremony for my depar­ ture, I returned to the sea my hat and the gloves that kept the callouses and blisters from covering my hands. I went to the captain's office to be paid off. When everything was squared away, I took my things to the main deck and began to carry them down the gangway to the van of the ship's agent. The second mate was on deck with all hands getting the hoses from shore aboard. They were busy preparing to start taking on the next cargo of diesel. They had no time to chat or really say goodbye. There was not much more time ^an to shake hands with each of my friends. We both hoped that this symbol could ex­ press all the feelings that we held for each other. As I drove away, everyone's attention was back on the hoses. There was no time for long waves from the pier; the ship requii^ all their attention. •/ �OCTOBER 1993 SEAFARERSlOG Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea AUGUST 16 — SEPTEMBER 15,1993 •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups OassA Class B Class C TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B OassC New York 29 37 9 22 26 2 14 '."•..•'P'-' 2 Philadelphia 3 4 8 2 1 2 8 Baltimore 15 0 • 4 ... 0 : 2 12 Norfolk 8 16 2 2 12 10 4 15 Mobile 15 3 10 10 1 1 New Orleans 29 • 28 5 22 16 2 7 npm 13 ,• 2 Jacksonville 22 P'pm 2 |;5. PS. 36 17 18 2 San Francisco 25 4 Pj' 17 8 Wilmington 19 23 1 •••A-25 0 13 16 0 12 Seattle 24 0 0 5 3 8 1 Puerto Rico 9 2 3 14 11 6 18 13 Honolulu 5 33 24 7 10 Houston 32 28 0 0 0 5 1 1 St. Louis 0 O-'P'-PP' 0 4 0 PPPPPP'O. 1 Piney Point 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 Algonac 63 175 31 179 294 59 231 Totals ENGINE DEPARTMENT Port . 1 7 11 20 1 New York 22 v-1;' 0 2 4 .V-:- 2 '%'i'ipP-l. 4 Philadelphia 0 2 5 PJP.' 3 14 6 Baltimore 2 4 9 7 1 6 8 Norfolk 1 0 5 6 8 1 10 Mobile 1 2 7 • 9 . 3 16 New Orleans 17 1 -x '•P'P^P. ":3. 8 2 19 Jacksonville 16 p'IP 0 0 • 8 6 12 San Francisco 12 -.-3:'. ::,;p P'P'-SP. 4 6 10 11 Wilmington 10 4 1 10 9 1 15 10 Seattle 1 0 0 • • ••. 3 0 2 Puerto Rico 2 5 9 12 4 18 11 4 Honolulu 6 0 17 13 PP..P'''IP 23 16 Houston 0 0 'XPP: 0 0 0 2 St. Louis 0 0 1 2 0 4 1 Piney Point 0 0 0 1 0 3 0 Algonac 35 24 100 96 37 175 140 Totals STEWARD DEPARTMENT Port •PS 6 •0.. 11 , 0 18 New York 1 0 2 , 2:. 3 3 'PPP:^" Philadelphia PPP2. 0 0 - 0 2:PP. Baltimore 1 1 2 6 1 10 5 Norfolk 2 1 5 6 5 9 7 Mobile 2 0 6 4 6 1 New Orleans 12 ' o-^.a» "::D 0 ^ 10^1 1 9 Jacksonville 14 0 7 21'i'"S 0 14 San Francisco 35 •i 2 0 '15 ' • • 2 3 Wilmington 12 0 7 19 4 6 23 0 Seattle 2 0 0 5 0 0 3 Puerto Rico 27 11 19 11 19 24 11 Honolulu 1 P:P-2 . PPp'9''', 11 0 12 Houston d 0 1 0 0 St. Louis 0 0 ypi 1 - 3: 1 mPit' Piney Point 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Algonac 64 13 61 125 31 115 155 Totals ENTRY DEPARTMENT Port 0 0 18 6 7 46 12 New York 0 • 3 0 0 5 1 0 Philadelphia 0 1 8 0 1 4 1 Baltimore 0 3 15 4 8 14 3 Norfolk 0 0 4 0 0 22 4 Mobile 0 3 ; 10 5 14 26 New Orleans 8 0 . 2 P'4 • 2 4 17 1 Jacksonville 0 • 1 8 4 10 20 San Francisco 12 0 2 6 4 3 14 5 Wilmington 0 2 12 6 4 24 8 Seattle 0 0 6 0 8 10 5 Puerto Rico 0 73 42 3 108 62 5 Honolulu 0 3 21 0 3 19 2 Houston 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 St. Louis 0 0 19 0 • 1 35 0 Piney Point 0 0 4 0 0 2 0 Algonac 0 93 178 34 176 317 66 Totals • Totals All Departments 592 901 303 * 'Total Registered means me nuiiiuci 434 inc.. v»..w 514 161 ••REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Clara A Clara B Clara C Trip Reliefs im 15 59 53 7 8 2 16 . . . . . . 2 . 8 38 5 27 34 5 22 14 48 41 a::;52..:>.:: 45 7 10 52 aac54. a.'..^79a^a 39 12 39 5 42 6 8 15 19 22 10 14 • 42PPi. 44 1 4 : 1 14 0 1 0 0 1 122 459 411 48 6 11 13 19 29 28:aa^ • 29 14 25 7 6 23 1 264 39 11 19 19 21 31 41 38 23 20 3 22 34 1 13 4 339 3 4 0 7 ..•'• 1 8 6 5 7 2 0 10 3 0 3 0 59 0 26 ••••5 3 ^aa- 4 • 3 0 14 ' ' • 1 13 4 12 13 3 12 21 1 15 1 72 •a-a22:t 6 2 23 '"3 12 35 2 1 3 24 37 17 0 20 P 2 0 0 1 miPMP:':••••,...151 0 0 0 45 189 274 28 87 22 PP^PP . 4 8 l-P 37 8 37 4 42 15 33 3 41 31 33 13 31 14 15 10 79 9 15 3 1 0 33 0 2 0 498 135 1.084 —rr -c - 1.485 ^ . 34 7 0 14 0 22 11 28 8 8 14 158 5 0 2 0 311 537 . ** "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. A total of 1,271 jobs were shipped on SlU-eontracted deep sea vessels. Of the 1,271 Jobs shipM. ••M jobs or about 34 percent were taken by "A" seniority members. The rest were filled byapd C ^nionty n^.,pi. From Augustlb to September 15,1993, a total of 162 trip relief Jobs were shipped. Since the tnp reliefprogramheganonAprill,1982,atotalofl9,494Johshavebeenshipped. 17 November & December 1993 Mmnb&ship fittings Deep Sea, Lakes, Inland Waters Piney Point Monday: November 8, December 6 New York TbeSday: November 9, December 7 Philadelphia Wednesday: November 10, December 8 Baltimore Friday: November 12*; Thursday, December 9 - * changed by Veterans Day holiday Norfdlk Friday: November 12*; Thursday, December 9 * changed by Veterans Day holiday • '''if.:. Jacksonville Friday: November 12*; Thursday, December 9 * (dumged by Veterans Day holiday Algonac Friday: November 12, December 10 Houston Monday: November 15, December 13 New Orleans Tuesday: November 16, December 14 Mobile V Wednesday: November 17, December 15 San Francisco Thursday: November 18, December 16 Wilmington Monday: November 22, December 20 Seattle Friday: November 26, December 24 San Juan Friday: November 12*; Thursday, December 9 •p^p-pppp -i- t . I * changed by Veterans Day holiday St. Louis Friday: November 19, December 17 Honolulu Friday: November 19, December 17 Duluth Wednesday: November 17, December 15 Jersey City Wednesday: November 24, December 22 New Bedford Tuesday: November 23, December 21 port's nw^kigstutg a lOiXlajn. Notices SCHOLAR WANTS TO HEAR FROM WWn MARINERS Kenneth E. Bailey, Ph.D., is interested in contact­ ing anyone who served aboard one or more of the following ships during WWII: SS John Gorrie, SS John Bascotn, SS John L. Motley, SS John Harvey, SS Joseph Wheeler, SS Samuel J. Tilden, SSJohn M. Schofield, SS Grace Abbot or SS Lyman Abbot. He also would like to contact anyone who remembers Army 2nd Lt. Kenneth C. Bailey, who was killed in action aboard the John L. Motley, December2,1943, at Ban, Italy. He was serving as a cargo security officer and made two trips across the Atlantic from New York to Liverpool in 1943. Anyone able to provide information should get in touch with Dr. Bailey at 6116 Rickeihill Lane, Austin, TX 78739. BRITISH FILM COMPANY SEEKS INFO FROM WWII MERCHANT SEAMEN October Films is making a documentary for the BBC in London about the experiences of American and British merchant seamen during the Second World War. Entitled Forgotten Heroes, the program will tell the story of the men without whom Ae allies could not have won the war. The producers would like to hear from merchant marine veterans who served on the Atlantic convoys, the runs to Murmansk, the Pacific, and so on. In addition, they're particularly interested in hearing from veterans of the Booker T. Washington. Any Seafarer who would like to contact October Films may write to them at 63-64 Camden Lock Place, Chalk Farm Road, London NWl 8AF, England, or telephone Oil 44719167198(FAXOll 44 71 916 7201). '' ''3'. • • '-'-.'"'''I-,-- ;•r "'K.- •'• 'MP .. . % • -f Sf. P-f '•:'i • Pf. . �T. 18 V' 0CT0RER1993 SEAFARERS LOG Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes Seafarers International Union Directory BifichadSacoo President JdmFay Secretaiy-Treasurer Joseph Sacco ExecutiveVice President Augustin Tellez •Vice President Collective Bargaining George McCartnejr Vice President West Coast Roy A. '*80011:" Mercer Vice ftesident Government Services Jack Caffey Vice President Atlantic Coast Byron Kelley Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Coreey Vice President Gulf Coast AUGUST 16 — SEPTEMBER 15,1993 NP—Non Priority CL—Company/Lakes L—Lakes ••REGISTERED ON BEACH i •f - ,• i. rr'-;/',, ./.v HEADQUARTERS 5201AuthWay Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr. Algonac, MI 48001 (313) 794-4988 BALTIMORE 1216 E. Baltimore SL Baltimore, MD 21202 (410) 327-4900 DULUTH 705 Medical Arts Building Duluth,MN 55802 (218)722-4110 HONOLULU 606KalihiSt Honolulu, HI 96819 (808)845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St. Houston, TX 77002 (713)659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St. lacksonviUe, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JERSEY CITY 99 Montgomery St. Jersey City. NJ 07302 (201)435-9424 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy. Mobile, AL 36605 (205)478-0916 NEW BEDFORD 48 Union St. New Bedford, MA 02740 (508)997-5404 NEW ORLEANS 630 Jackson Ave. New Orleans, LA 70130 (504)529-7546 NEWYORK 675 Fourth Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718)499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St. Norfolk, VA 23510 (804)622-1892 PHILADELPHIA OfiCtd S 4 St Philadelphia,'PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75 Piney Point, MD 20674 (301)994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 2 West Dixie Hi^way Dania,FL 33004 (305)921-5661. SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont SL San Francisco, CA 94105 (415)543-5855 Govanmait Services Division (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fonandez Juncos Ave. Stop 16Vi Santurce, PR 00907 (809)721-4033 SEATTLE 2505 First Ave. Seattle, WA 98121 (206)441-1960 ST. LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave. St Louis, MO 63116 (314)752-6500 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave. Wilmington, CA 90744 (310)549-4000 •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups aassCL Class L Class NP TOTALSHIPPED Ail Groups Class CL Class L Class NP All Groups Oass CL Class L Class NP DECK DEPARTMENT 3 28 4 MmMl I'M: 0 30 11 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 14 6 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 8 2 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 15 2 0 .19 14 0 0 0 22 62 0 0 52 19 19 79 Totals All Departments 0 * 'Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters AUGUST 16 — SEPTEMBER 15,1993 •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Region Atlantic Coast' Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast 7 ..j 0 35 0 1 15 0 18 Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals Region Atlantie Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals 1 12 .Q^ . 0 0 21 1 33 0 0 p 0 1 1 " : 0 5 0 0 1 1 6 TOTALSHIPPED All Groups Class A CliEiss B Oass C DECK DEPARTlVffiNT 0 0 4 11 9 0 61 1 32 74 1 36 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 1 0 0 , 0 4 1 6 1 0 0 1 0 7 0 n 0 0 0 0 0 0 STEWARD DEPARTMENT .1 0 0 . 1 0 1 7 0 n Z V V 2 9 3 7 1 1 1 2 ••REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 10 3 1 31 1 7 69 100 1 1 . . 28 0 32 2 0 0 3 1 8 1 13 1 0 2 3 - 5 _^ 0 0 5 ••i 9 0 6 15 120 138 13 38 87 43 58 2 Totals All Departments * "Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. ** "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. • •- -•••y ^Ilii-lsoyK ? -•H's The Seafarers LOG would like to hear from you. If you have written any stories or poems or kept a diary of your life at sea that you think other Seafarers would be interested in reading, send them along. Photographs of shipboard life (identified on the back) also would be welcomed. Send your items to: Seafarers LOG 5201 Auth Way • Camp Springs, MD 20746 f. • • • t'' • , •' ' ' \ • I '^ms» �OCTOBER 1993 SEJU'MERSLOG 19 'i To Our New Pensioners ... Thanks for a Job Well Done Each month in the Seafarers LOG, the names of SIU mem­ bers who recently have become pensioners appear with a brief biographical y ketch. These men and women have served the maritime industry well, and the SIU and all their union brothers and sisters wish them happiness and health in the days ahead. T ROBERT he Seafarers Pension Plan ROWE, 57, this month announces the joined the retirements of eight members. in Seafarers Seven of those signing off 1962 in his sailed in the deep sea division, native Nor­ while one sailed in the inland folk, Va. division. Three of the new pen­ Brother sioners upgraded their skills at Rowe sailed the Harry Lundeberg School of in the steward department. He Seamanship in Piney Point, still calls Norfolk home. Md. Louis Babin Jr. had been an active Seafarer longer than any of the other members sign­ JOHN ing off this month. He joined SCHAEFER the union in 1952 in the port of SR., 65, New York. joined the SIU in 1966 Brief biographical sketches of Babin and the other new pen­ in the port sioners follow. of New York. Bom in Detroit, DEEP SEA he upgraded to QMED at Piney LOUIS Point in 1975. Brother Schaefer BABIN JR., retired to Mio, Mich. 62, joined the WILHELM SCHROEDER, Seafarers in 55, joined the Seafarers in 1965 1952 in the in the port of Wilmington, port of New Calif. Bom in Oldendorf, Ger­ York. Bom many, he sailed as a QMED. in PlaBrother Schroeder upgraded at quemine. La., he sailed in the the Lundeberg School in 1981. steward department. Brother He retired to Honigflehtiz, Ger­ Babin retired to Metairie, La. many. DANIEL BALERIO, 65, VINCENT TARALLO, 69, joined the SIU in 1962 in the joined the union in 1958 in the port of Houston. A native of port of San Francisco. A Brook­ Wharton, Texas, he sailed in lyn, N.Y. native, he sailed in the engine department. Brother the engine department. Brother Balerio upgraded at the Lun­ Tarallo resides in San Bmno, deberg School in 1969. He Calif. served in the U.S. Army from 1949 to 1958. Brother Balerio resides in Wharton, Texas. INLAND VICENTE ORTIZ, 66, joined the union in 1958 in the port of Portland, Ore. A Puer­ to Rico na­ tive, he sailed in the steward department. Brother Ortiz calls San Francisco home. JAMES STEPHENS, 66, joined the SIU in 1967 in the port of Hous­ ton. Bom in Huntsville, Texas, he sailed as a captain. Boatman Stephens calls Houston home. Life of a Pensioner Biggest trouble I have in adjusting to retirement is learning to keep my grievances to myself. 'Seafarers Always Stand Up For What They Believe In' Retired Member Salvo Remains Active • •' "• One might call him McKeesport, Pa.'s king of cor­ respondence. Never the shy type, SIU pen­ sioner Pete Salvo keeps postal workers busy with his steady stream of letters, which cover a broad range of topics and are sent to an equally diverse group of organizations, publications, politicians and other in­ dividuals. Brother Salvo, 72, sees his letter-writing as an effective means of voicing beliefs, in­ forming others and sometimes spurring political action. Pub­ lished regularly on the op-ed pages of several westem Penn­ sylvania newspapers, as well as in the Seafarers LOG, Salvo has corresponded with such notable figures as President Clinton and General Colin Powell. Nicknamed the "Street Cap­ tain" by one of his neighbors because of his take-charge at­ titude, Salvo never has been passive about issues which af­ fect or interest him. "I guess you could call me an activist. I've been a law-abidihg citizen for 72 years, but I'm politically active," says the World War II veteran who sailed in the engine department and resides near Pittsburgh. "The SIU definitely had a lot to do with helping me get motivated. Seafarers always have been people who stand up for what they believe in." others in an effort to secure recognition for World War 11 merchant mariners. Whether the issue is granting veterans status, offering some recogni­ tion on Veterans Day and Memorial Day, or simply set­ ting the record straight. Salvo's typewriter stays warm as he conveys his views. Earlier this year, for ex­ ample, he took umbrage with a letter that appeared in a magazine published by the American Legion. The letter charged that, contrary to an ar­ Pete Salvo ticle entitled "Merchant Marine: The Heroic Fourth Arm retired and active U.S. merchant of Defense," Nazi U-boats mariners. For example, in 1989 he sent never machine-gunned any mariners who survived their a letter commending Rep. Helen Delich Bentley (R-Md.) vessel being sunk. Salvo and dozens of others to the Irwin (Pa.) Standard Ob­ immediately responded in writ­ server. The letter notes ing and corrected the other let­ Bentley's efforts to make sure ter-writer. Salvo had first-hand all U.S.-flag vessels (in this knowledge of such travesties, case, Kuwaiti tankers in the Per­ having helped rescue survivors sian Gulf which were re-flagged of just such a machine-gun at­ to fly the Stars and Stripes but carry only an American captain tack during the war. "There have been so many and chief engineer) are manned lies told over the years about the entirely by U.S. citizens. Salvo forwarded a copy of merchant marine," Salvo says with a mixture of resignation the letter to the representative, and disbelief. "Our government who in turn sent him a thankdidn't reveal until five years ago you letter. Additionally, Salvo's inter­ that welost over700 (merchant) ships during the war. We were ests stem beyond maritime. He the only all-volunteer service, is active in local politics and we had the second-highest also has written about every­ casualty rate during the war, be­ thing from the Iran-Contra af­ hind only the Marines, and yet fair to Ralph Nader's activities. Still, the Seafarers and the for all those years we were Always Active denied veterans status. That just maritime industry have a spe­ cial place in Salvo's heart—-and Brother Salvo joined the SIU wasn't right." in his order of business. "Any in 1943 in the port of New York Thanks Maritime more, to accomplish anything and promptly sailed on a num­ Supporters you have to make a lot of noise. ber of dangerous voyages That's the way I was brought up during the war. For his service, A member of numerous or­ he has been decorated nine ganizations, including Project in the SIU, and that's what it's times—most recently in Liberty Ship, the Pennsylvania going to take to save this in­ December 1992 when he Humane Society, the Merchant dustry," Salvo emphatically received a medal for taking part Marine Veterans and Amnesty states. "The Seafarers taught me in the treacherous Murmansk International, Brother Salvo to fight for what I believe in. If supply mns to the former Soviet does not limit his writings to you ever attended a meeting corrections or calls to action. He with (late SIU President) Paul Union. After the war. Salvo makes a point of thanking Hall in New York... well, those remained an active member of those who support both the are times I'll never forget!" the Seafarers. Before a back in­ jury in 1955 forced him to end his maritime career. Salvo was elected as a ship's delegate on eight different vessels because of the way he stdpd up for his fellow crewmembers. He was a picket captain during the Isthmian strike in 1947 and played an active part in many other beefs. He also volunteered along with other Seafarers for a government-run medical ex­ periment in 1950. After retiring from the sea. Salvo went into the appliance repair business. He worked in that field for more than 30 years but never forgot his ties to the union and the U.S.-flag mer­ chant marine. In fact, the role and plight of the American merchant marine during World War II remains a favorite topic of Salvo's. In recent years, he has written to United States presidents, con­ above are some of the many responses Salvo has received, along gressional representatives, state Shown with twoof his published letters and a brief newspaper report about Salvo. officials, publications and • S' rf .'f- V,. ••. "'«f - •^1.. ' •' "'• . 'X- -W:. • :S , J:'.' " """ .. : I i: ': I ' i .vV ' u -T- j-.' �20 : -X' • a5lia|g|5fev .•••••. ^'v-::;; •••• :^i'. ^•»?.v..' '•• .-. >S • V- "-• • "•••••:-• '•: ;f' •"' -"• . -•'•• • OCTOBER 1003 SEAFMERSLOG HAFTA's Dai^eis Raised by UnUms ClinliHi Offm Plan to Congress; AFL-CIO Backs Basics of Proposal Continued from page 6 manufacturing jobs since the The so-called "employer man Continued from page 6 early 1980s, the work force inside date" is one of the main points o Mexican maquiladora plants has contention in Clinton's plan door for Mexico to import more increased from 120,000 workers Many businesses welcome it, lar­ U.S. products. But despite a in 1980 to more than half a mi gely because they already cover multi-million dollar pro-NAFTA lion today. Some of those at least 80 percent of their public relations campaign waged workers earn as little as 50 cen employees' health care costs anc by the Mexican government and an hour. also indirectly pay for nonsome U.S. business interests, no Severe job losses in the U.S covered employees at other comone apparently has been able to resulting from NAFTA are back panies. For example, when explain how Mexican workers, ed up by these experiences with someone without medica many of whom earn as little as $4 the maquiladoras. For more than coverage is treated at an emergen­ a day, will be able to afford to buy a decade, U.S. companies have cy room, the cost is passed on to American goods. been encouraged through govern those who have insurance, in the Despite contentions to the ment policy toestablish manufac forms of higher premiums, higher contrary, NAFTA threatens not turing factories in Mexico, alon deductibles, etc. (reflecting only low-skilled U.S. jobs, but the American border. The higher hospital billing to compen­ also high-tech, high-wage jobs products from these plants are ex sate for the cost of indigent care). The AFL-CIO long has main­ Professor Harley Shaiken of the ported into the U.S. market at tained that citizens who have in­ University of California recently reduced tariffs. told a House employment sub­ The explosion of manufactur­ surance inevitably bear the committee. ing plants along Mexico's border inancial burden of the uninsured. Shaiken, a respected authority has caused hundreds of boom That situation must be changed so on trade law, noted that the high­ towns and squatter communities that everyone pays their fair share, tech industries (such as auto filled with cardboard shanties anc the federation has emphasized. Others claim the cost of man­ production and consumer housing made from scrap wooc datory coverage would severely AFL-CIO President Lane Kirkland outlines labor's plans to mobilize electronics) that have located in for the thousands of workers who larm small businesses and some "or health care reform. Mexico have attained produc­ are employed at the many U.S. other companies. However, the tivity and quality levels com­ companies, where they build cars, jresident's plan apparently The SIU favorably notes that Medicare and Medicaid savings parable to those in the U.S. make furniture, assemble would limit large companies' multi-employer plans, such as the to help Bnance coverage for the However, Mexico's wages electronics components and jayments to about 7 percent of Seafarers Welfare Plan, would be uninsured and also to expand remain at Third World rates. more. The living conditions in jayroll, with smaller businesses considered its own health alliance coverage for the elderly. The professor said NAFTA these areas are characterized by laving a 4 percent limit. Sub­ )ut would have the option of join­ Here again, some have raised will not improve Mexican insufficient and inadequate hous­ sidies would cover the difference ing Others. concerns about whether the workers' conditions, but may ing, lack of running water or Opponents of the Clinton plan financing plan will work. Much seriously harm American sewage facilities and little or no in both cases. But for the largest companies caution that these alliances will depends on the government's workers as the two countries' electripty. economies integrate. Enactment oif NAFTA only jrobably those with at least restrict citizens' ability to choose ability to limit premiums, which "At issue is not economic in­ would increase such scenes, say ,000 workers), this cap only their health care providers, be­ in turn, theoretically at least, would apply if they join regiond cause they would be limited to the would limit payment to health tegration with Mexico—that al­ opponents of the agreement. AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer lealth insurance purchasing )lans to which their employers care providers. ready exists and will continue to Some health insurance expand—but the basis on which Thomas Donahue reaffirmed jools or "health alliances" to be subscribe. Proponents of the created by the Clinton plan. iresident's plan counter by providers balk at such limits, an accelerated integration should labor's vehement opposition to saying that all existing choices claiming they will adversely ef­ Health alliances would offer a NAFTA when he stated, "For the take place," he added. plus some new ones will be avail­ fect the quality of care. Others variety of comprehensive plans, Mexico's minimuih wage is rest of this congressional session, able in the health alliances. Addiinsist that networks of doctors, including health maintenance or­ about $4 a day, ^d some citizens the No. 1 priority of the American ionally, Clinton's plan would hospitals and insurance com­ ganization (HMO) plans, tradi­ there earn even l^s. Yet while the trade union movement is defeat­ ensure that quality care is avail­ panies will control costs themsel­ tional fee-for-service plans and U.S. has lost nearly a million ing NAFTA." irobably some combinations of able, in part by providing pre­ ves in order to gain business. While the debate over )oth. The health alliances would viously unavailable information buy services from HMOs and about the provider to the patient. Clinton's plan and others con­ The main sources of funds for tinues, there is bipartisan agree­ other companies which in tum contract with doctors and other the plan from 1994 to 2000 are ment that the current U.S. system health care providers. Individual cuts in Medicare and Medicaid is far too costly. The nation's employees then would have a spending, eliminating "red tape," health care spending, which has 1. U.S. Will Lose High-Skill, High-Wage Jobs hoice among the plans offered JIUS "sin" taxes and other increased by about 11 percent in In a growing number of industries, labor productivity in Mexico is even higher than in comparable U.S. factories because Mexican plants are jy their alliance. (They would not )rojected savings (see chart), each of the last five years, is newer and workers often receive more training. Where labor is cheap to 'resident Clinton would use the projected at $900 billion for 1993. be required to join an HMO.) hire, it i§ cheap to train, regardless of the type of work. HEAITH CAR REFORM PROJEC Setting the Record Straight: 5 Facts About NAFTA If NAFTA is enacted, the U.S. will lose not only a bevy of comparably low-skill, low-wage jobs but also a substantial number of high-skill, highwage positions. Comparing Five Nations' Health Care Spending 2. Current Trade Surplus Is Misleading NAFTA's supporters claim that America's two-year-old trade surplus with Mexico proves the trade deal will create jobs. Yet even pro-NAFTA economists admit the surplus reflects an overvalued peso which is likely to fall by as much as 20 percent next year. That fall will more than wipe out all advantage to the U.S. of eliminating Mexican tariffs. Additionally, the surplus is in capital goods, not consumer goods. In other words, the U.S. is shipping machinery south to expand the capacity of Mexico's low-wage factories to produce consumer goods for sale back in the U.S. 3. Side Deals Fall Short NAFTA's recently announced side agreements do nothing to address the question of suppressed wages in Mexico. They contain no labor standards, and also are silent on questions of air pollution and wildlife protection. The side deals also wouldset up a bureaucratic maze that would make it virtually impossible to enforce the few topics they cover. 4. Mexican Drivers Are Exempt During the Bush administration, the U.S. Department of Transportation (anticipating NAFTA) ordered all state governments to exempt anyone with a driver's license issued in Mexico from the licensing requirements that American truckers must meet. With 85 percent of all commerce between the U.S. and Mexico carried by truck, the implications are distressing. For example, Mexican drivers will tie exempted from California's special certification requirements for truckers who haul double-trailers and hazardous waste. Also, the question of insurance liability is left un­ answered. What will accidents involving uninsured Mexican drivers do to overall insurance rates in the U.S.? Finally, U.S. truck drivers will be forced to compete with Mexican workers who make as little as $7 a day. 5. Other Countries Will Use Export Platform NAFTA surely will divert Asian and European investment to Mexico that othenvise mightI come uuilic; iiiiu into the lilt? u.o. U.S. Additionally, Muuiiiuiioiiiy, uiiitsi other nations iiaiiuiia will win use uov Mexico as an export Kport platform platform into the U.S. Mercedes-Benz, enz, for example, is setting up facilities to produce buses and luxury cars; in Mexico in anticipation of NAFTA. China is building a major textile and apparel center in Mexico to produce products to export to the U.S. 20% 15% •s 10% S ''v ''s ''v ''N ^. ''v ''-V ^ ^>. X X X X X• Japan Unltsd Kingdom i 5% I 0% 1980 iot 1990 Sourc*: OECD, Whits Houss Note: Graphic shows what five nations spent on health care from 1980 to 1990, plus U S proiected spending with and without enactment of President Clinton's health care reform plan." " ^ ' '•P �0CWBBI1993 SEAFARBIS UK Martin Reedy, Steward (Delegate Mohsin Abdulla. Chairman ex­ tended welcome to new Seafarers and announced additional crewmembers boarding in San Diego. Educational director urged members to upgrade Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union ship- skills at Lundeberg School. No beefs board minutes as possible. On occasion, b^use of space or disputed OT reported. N-jpI r,;, - ;••• limitations, some will be omitted. Ships minutes first are reviewed by the union's contract department Those Issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships minutes. The minuted are then for­ warded to the Seafarers LOG. 1STLT. JACK LUMMUS (Amsea), April 4—Chairman K. Johnson, Secretary L. Oram, Educa­ tional Director P. Kwasi^uk, Steward Delegate E. Loret. Chair­ man reported message received from headquarters concerning hazardous duty pay. Treasurer reported $242.58 in ship's fund. Deck delegate reported beef. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegates. Crewmembers asked con­ tracts department to clarify sanitation duties. Crewmembers donated money toward AB James McCarthy's trip home due to death in family. Next port: Somalia. GUS DARNELL (Ocean Shipholding), June 6—Chairman John Wolff, Secretary David Smith, Educational Director Raymond Frail, Deck Delegate Tan Ah Joon, Engine Delegate AH Alfaqih, Steward Delegate Timothy Dowd. Chairman discussed 45-day voyage around South America and reminded crew­ members to conserve water, put plas­ tic in proper place and not to slam doors. He announced the addition of TV to crew lounge and reported ex­ cellent group of ABs aboard. Secretary reported good steward department on duty for voyage. Educational director urged crewmem­ bers to use small cycle on washing machine when doing laundry. He en­ couraged members to upgrade skills at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked contracts department to look into improved dental coverage. Crew gave vote of thanks to steward department for job well done. Captain announced ship will he furrugated while in shipya^ in July. LNG AQUARIUS(ETC), June 26— Chairman Carlos Pineda, Secretary F. Robertson, Educational Director W. Fay. Chairman announced con­ tract extension. Educational director reminded members to upgrade at Lundeberg School. Treasurer reported $500 in movie fund and $39 in ship's fiind. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman reminded crew­ members to return to Iship at least one hour before sailing time. He also reminded crew to keep noise down when docking and undocking late at night LNG ARIES(ETC), June 27—Chair­ man BlUie Darley, Secretary R. Brown, Educational Director D. Panko, Deck Delegate P. Funk, En­ gine Delegate Richard Robertson, Steward Delegate Udjang Nurdjaqa. Chairman reported captain is happy with how crew has performed duties. Secretary reminded crew of impor­ tance of acting properly while ashore. Treasurer reported $447 in ship's fund. Chairman reported telex received from company announcing contract extension through August 16. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew gave vote of thanks to steward department for excellent food and service. Chairman reminded members to secure weight room after use to avoid problems in rough seas. Next port: Himeji, Japan. PAUL Bl/C/C(Ocean Shipholding), June 27—Chairman D. Ellette, Secretary M. Brinn, Educational Director James Robbins, Deck Delegate Jack Cockron, Engine Delegate Karl Friebel, Steward Delegate Adolphis Young. Chairman announced new washer and mattres­ ses came aboard in Norfolk, Va. He discussed payoff and orders to load in Yanbu, Saudi Arabia and discharge in Sasebo, Japan. Crewmembers ad­ vised to purchase personal items at 1 ^ J SEALIFTINDIAN OCEAN{UAC). June 1—Chairman Bob Pagan, Secretary Roy Royals, E>eck Delegate Jim World, Engine Delegate Mike Ricci, Steward Delegate Ray Rodriguez. Chairman reported TV and VCR need repair. Crew requested chairs for mess hall next port. Educational director urged and lounge area be repaired or members to upgrade at Paul Hall Cen­ replaced. Treasurer reported $196 in ter and donate to SPAD. Treasurer ship's fund. Crew requested reported $4(X) in ship's fund. No respirators and masks for those mem­ beefs or disputed OT reported. Chair­ bers who clean tanks. Secretary man read telex concerning contract reported limited stores and an­ extension. Captain, who reported nounced company's budget for aboard in Norfolk, gave each depart­ stores, cleaning supplies, plates and ment vote of thanks for clean ship forks not adequate. He reported after cottung out of shipyard. Next menus very limited. Educational port: Thule, Greenland. director encouraged members to SEA-LAND EXPEDITION{Seaupgrade at Paul Hall Center and Land Service), June 27—Chairman reminded them of program available Paulino Flores, Secretary E. Vaz­ to anyone with drug or alcohol quez, Educational Director Dan problems. He also led a discussion on Beeman. Chairman reported smooth AIDS and what can be done to trip without problems. Secretary prevent acquiring the disease. Beefs asked contracts department to advise and disputed OT reported by deck members of contract results. No beefs delegate. No beefs or disputed OT or disputed OT reported. reported by engine or steward delegates. Crew reported no rotation SEA-LAND EXPRESS (Sea-Land of movies. Crew asked contracts Service), June 3—Chairman Ray department to send information Ramirez, Secretary G. Bryant, regarding clothing allowance for tank Educational Director L. Cowan, cleaning. Steward department Deck Delegate Larry Long, Engine reported microwave needs repair or Delegate Bryan Honeycutt, Steward replacement due to hole in door. Delegate Fadel Abdulla. Chairman Crew reported slop chest needs to he discussed possibility of ship payoff stocked with more than cigiuettes, immediately upon arrival in port. No especially toiletries such as tooth­ beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew paste. Crew re^rted company needs discussed rotating duties for cleaning to buy light bulbs. Next port: Gaeta, of recreation area and daily sanitary. Italy. Crew also discussed smoking policy in mess room and gave vote of thanks (/S/VS r£/«4C/0t/S(USMMD, June 3—Chairman Roy Conn, to galley gang for good food. Secretary John Reid, Vocational SEA-LAND PERFORMANCE Delegate Danny AUeman, Deck (Sea-Land Service), June 6—Chair­ Delegate Ron Mercer, Engine man E. Bronstein, Secretary R.G. Delegate Howard Hendra, Steward Griswold, Educational Director D. Delegate Eddie Pippins. Crew Johnson, Steward Delegate James elected new chairman and delegates Oreilly. No beefs or disputed OT and discussed information regarding reported. Crew asked contracts upgrading at Piney Point. department to look into amending CAPE HENRY {lOM), My 11— shipping rules with regard to federal Chairman T.S. Votsis, Secretary B. family leave law and improve pen­ Fletcher, Educational Director I. sion benefits. Next port: Charleston, Rousseau, Deck Delegate Victor S.C. Tamulis, Vgine Delegate Kevin SEA-LAND PRODUCER (SeaHall, Steward Delegate Gordon Land Service), June 13—Chairman Wheeler. Educational director urged Jack Edward, Secretary Jennifer members to upgrade skills at Lun­ Jim, Educational Director Jim Smit- deberg School. No beefs or disputed ko. Chairman discussed end of shut­ OT reported. Crew requested more in­ tle services for Sea-Land vessels in formation concerning union affairs all ports as announced on May 13. and Seafarers LOGs be sent to ship. Chairman announced ship's arrival in Chairman atmounced vessel will be Oakland, Calif, and estimated time of laid up after seven months of duty. departure. Educational director noted Crew asked contracts department to new courses at Piney Point and en­ look into pension increases. Crew couraged members to upgrade skills. thanked galley gang for very good Treasurer reported $55 in crew's job. Deck department commended by fund. No beefs or disputed OT MSC and MarAd for efforts in keep­ reported. Crew requested treasurer ing vessel in excellent condition. post list of movies bought with fund Crew reported waiting for results of including updates on remaitung contract negotiations. Next port Nor­ fimds. Crew gave vote of thanks and folk, Va. appreciation to steward department for job well done. CHARLES L. BROWN(JranSEA-LAND SPIRIT{Sea-Land Ser­ soceanic Cable), July 10—Chairman vice), June 6—Chairman R. CleJ. Harrington, Secretary B. mente. Secret^S. Apodaca, Kamiya, Educational Director Wil­ Educational Director C. Henley, liam Carroll. Chairman reported first aid kits for steward and engine Deck Delegate T. Doi, Engine Delegate C. Mendeiros, Steward departments ordered. He announced union holiday on August 20 honoring Delegate F. Maliga. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang for job well the late SlU President Paul Hall. Treastuer reported $5(X) in ship's done. Next port: Honolulu. fund. Deck delegate retrunded deck SEA-LAND VALUE{Sea-Land Ser­ department members to use caution vice), June 3—Chairman George with new table saw. No beefs or dis­ Wilson, Secretary A. Hassan, Educa­ puted OT reported. Chairman an­ tional Director R. Kitlas. Chairman nounced letter from company reported good crew and officers regarding contract extension. Crew aboard with fine job performed by reported engine department replaced steward department. Crew report^ pipe on deck. lounge needs two new chairs and CHARLESTON {Apex Marine), also requested new pillows and July 18—Chairman A. Maben, linens. Crew gave vote of thanks to Secretary B. Daniels, Educational steward department. Next port: Director Tony Mohammed, Deck Elizabeth, N.J. Delegate G, Ortiz, Engine Delegate Joseph Saxon, Steward Delegate SEALIFT ANTARCTIC (IMC), June 6—Chairman Steve Handsford, Angel Correa. Chairman discussed foreign-flag threat by Sea-Land and . Secretary James Swart, Educational acquisition of 68 Ready Reserve Director Jim Fox, Engine Delegate "1' I ^ ^ ' -i fv-' V Force ships. Secretary informed crew of vacation, medical and change of address forms in crew lounge. Educa­ tional director stressed importance of utilizing Piney Point facility for upgrading job skills as well as GED and college courses. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Chairman dis­ tributed union pamphlets and literature to crewmembers. Chairman conunencled GSU Silverio Arana for doing good job in keeping mess room clean and urged crew to keep eating areas tidy. Chairman reportV clothes iron for crew ordered, and crew gave special thanks to steward department. Next port: Groton, Conn. INGER{Seaim Bulkers), July 25— Chairman Theodore Bush, Secretary Vincent Sanchez Jr,, Deck Delegate Bernard Wilson, Engine Delegate Robert Caldwell, Steward Delegate Rehuel Ascano. Chairman reported payoff in Galveston, Texas and an­ nounced repair list will be submitted to captain and patrolman. He 21 department forclarification. Secretary reported smooth sailing with great group of union brothers. He thanked crewmembers for keep­ ing mess hall and ship house clean. Educational director urged members to keep attending Paul Hall Center to upgrade. No beefs reported. Chair­ man reported food prices keepgoing up but not company food budget. Crew asked contracts department for clarification on transportation pay. Crew gave vote of thanks to gdley gang for making do with low stores. Next port: Stapleton, N.Y. rrS NEW YORK{SheTidan Transportation), July 31—Chairman J. Harris, Secretary G. Schwartz, Educational Director Michael Vacca, Deck Delegate D. Tuten, Engine Delegate P. Ramos, Steward Delegate Mat Scott. Chairman reported ship in good shape. Educa­ tional director discussed benefits of upgrading skills at Piney Point. No bwfs or disputed OT reported. Crew Nearly Two Centuries of Experience The 8-12 watch aboard the PFC Eugene A. Obregon brings a com­ bined total of 194>ears to the job. From left are AB Robert Lambert, 63; Third Mate Edwin Rutter, 65; and AB Reeves Hornby, 66. All three have sailed for many yearson all types of ships. The above photo was taken during a recent underway replenishment exercise with the US. Navy tanker Joshua Humphreys. 100 miles southeast of Bermuda. reminded crewmembers signing off to leavcL^m neat and clean for next person. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Engine delegate reported di^ in engine department shower needs to be unclogged. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang for job well done. ITS BALTIMORE{Sheridan Transportation), July 4—Chairman Jimmy Rogers, Secretary Andrew Hagan, Educational Director Paul Honeycutt, Deck Delegate Anthony Heinoldt, Steward Delegate John Padilla Crew asked contracts depart­ ment for information concerning status of new contract Bosun con­ gratulated Recertified Steward Andrew Hagan for being awarded four-year SIU scholarship and wished him luck in future studies. Crew gave thanks to Steward department and John Padilla who is signing off for vacation. Next port: Charleston, S.C. ITB JACKSONVILLE{Sheridm Transportation), July 1—Chairman Luke Wells, Secret^ Richard Worobey, Education^ Director Spiros Perdikis, Steward Delegate S. Suraredja Chairman reported crew TV needs repair and armounced deck department needs summer work cloth­ ing provided by company. He an­ nounced payoff and stated vessel heading to St. Croix, V.I. Chairman also encouraged crewmembers to upgrade at Lundeberg School. No bwfs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked contracts department to look into increasing m^cal benefits for dependents. Chairman reminded crew no smoking in crew mess during meal hours. ITB MOBILE(Sheridan Transporta­ tion), July 26—Chairman Fred Jen­ sen, Secretary PedroSellan, Educational Director C. Rodriguez, Deck Delegate J. McCormick, En­ gine Delegate A. Salim, Steward Delegate T. Quammie. Chairman an­ nounced contract negotiations ex­ tended for 60 days. He reported disputed OT in all departments due to sailing time and asked contracts reported deck, engine and steward departments have worked as family and everyone is happy. Crew gave special thanks to galley gang for 4th of July feast. Next port St Croix, V.I. ''-'i, • LIBERTY BELLE (Liberty Maritime), July 18—Chairman Benedict Bom, Deck Delegate Eddie Hall, Engine Delegate T. Ripoli, Steward Delegate John Foster. Chairman reported company will purchase iron and new furniture for day room and crew mess. Discus­ sion was held on finding way to secure lounge and mess while in port UBERTYWAVEOAherty Maritime), July 23--Chairman Jorge Osorio, Secretary E. H^ger, Educa­ tional Director Fred Tiemey. Chair­ man reported good trip with crew and announced payoff. Educational direc­ tor urged members to upgrade at Lundeberg School. No beefs OT disputed OT reported. Crew discussed vacation pay arid gave vote of thanks to steward department for job well done. L/VG CAPI7/CO/?/V(ETQ, July 25—Chairman Charles Kahl, Secretary Norman Duhe, Educatioiial Director P. Wolf, Deck Delegate Thomas Harding, Engine Delegate Robert Rice, Steward Delegate Perry McCalL Chairman asked all departments to work together to make life easier for all and create safe and happy ship. He also urged members to support SPAD. Educational direc­ tor reminded members to take ad­ vantage of Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman read telex on contract extension. Crew thanked galley gang for job well done. Next port: Arun, Indonesia. LNG LEO (ETC), July 25—Chair­ man Robert Schwarz, Secretary Henry Jones Jr., Deck Delegate G. Kehiis, Steward Delegate 1. Solomons. Chairman announced he jirst came aboard and looks forward to working with crew. He reported he had not received an update concemCoiUinued on page 22 . v. ••rt 'r : �-:"v; 22 rfe:. :••• • Ships Digest •y. . Continued from page 21 I " .i[c.:"\ ' ;'<; , , OCnBER 1993 SEAFARERS LOC ing contract. He encouraged mem­ bers to support American-flag ship­ ping and donate to SPAD. Educational director urged crew to take advantage of upgrading classes at Piney Point, He also reminded members to donate to SPAD. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chair­ man reported crewmembers doing good job keeping recreation room and mess hall clean. He reminded everyone not to yell in passageways and to respect shipmates. Crew gave vote of thanks to steward department for excellent meals. Next port: ArurJ, Indonesia. 1ST LT. JACK LUMMUS (Amsea), July 4—Chairman Kelly Devine, Secretary Anthony Curran, Deck Delegate Ddn Denorio, Steward Delegate Debora Grendahl. Educational director urged members to take advantage of Lundeberg School facilities to upgrade skills. Treasurer reported $344vin ship's fund and reported someJioney will be used toward purchase of new movies. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed benzene testing requirements to receive ship­ ping card. Crew discussed movies to add to library. Next port: Newport News, Va. MAJOR STEPHEN W. PLESS (Waterman Steamship), July 25Chairman Bernard Hutcherson, Secretary Tony Piazza, Educational Director G. Wallis, Deck Delegate Fred Hunter, Engine Delegate Felix Miralda. Disputed OT arid beefs reported by deck and steward delegates. Crew discussed what would happen if water was con­ taminated and if bottled water for drinking and cooking was used. Crew agreed to hold union meetings more often to minimize problems. Chair­ man read exerpts from union con­ tract. MAYAGUEZ(Puerto Rico Marine), July 4—Chairman Albert Caulder, Secretary L. Ewing, Educational Director E. Richman. Chairman an­ nounced payoff in Norfolk, Va. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade at Paul Hall Cen­ ter. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crewmembers discussed 30day emergency leave plan for mem­ bers. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang and requested new TV and toaster. Daley, Deck Delegate Emanuel Gazzier. Engine Delegate James SkubOM//.E4DEA? (OMI), July 25— na. Steward Delegate Edward Chairman Patrick Rankin, Secretary Winne. Chairman reported Patrol­ Michael Davalie, Educational Direc­ man Mike Calhoun serviced vessel in tor Alvin Markowitz, Deck Delegate Houston. Educational director Tommie Vines Sr., Engine Delegate reminded members to upgrade skills Bruce Korte, Steward Delegate at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or dis­ Stanley Krysyosiak. Chairman puted OT reported. Crew reported reported new dryer in crew laundry July Seafarers LOGs received. Crew needed. He also gave special thanks members gave vote of confidence to to entire crew for fine job. Education­ contracts depaftment in negotiating to al director encouraged members to "keep meat on our tables." Crew upgrade at Paul Hall Center. Beef reported air conditioning running reported by deck delegate. No beefs warm. Chairman thanked all depart­ or disputed OT reported by engine or ments for jobs well done. Crewmem^ steward delegates. Crew requested bers observed moment of silence for new furniture in crew lounge. departed brothers and sisters. Next port: Stapleton, N.Y. OOCL INNOVA RON (Sea-Land Service), July 11—Chairman John PFC JAMES ANDERSON Bertolino, Secretary Edward Col­ (Maersk Lines), July 11—Chairman lins, Educational Director Harry T. Anderson, Secret^ H. WilderMessick, Deck Delegate Douglas muth. Educational Director L. Hodges, Engine Delegate Peter Cochbran, Deck Delegate James Hausmann, Steward Delegate RadHailstone, Steward Delegate Earl mes Cosme. Chairman announced ar­ Castain. Educational director urged rival in Charleston, S.C. with payoff members to take advantage of upgrad­ that morning. He reminded crew pur­ ing program at Piney Point. Treasurer pose of SPAD and urged donations. reported $200 in ship's fund. No Secretary thanked crew for keeping beefs or disputed OT reported. Deck pantry clean and advised memlwrs to and engine delegate gave special attend Piney Point and upgrade skills recognition to galley gang for excel­ as soon as possible. Treasurer lent job. Chairman reminded mem­ reported $70 in ship's fiind. Disputed bers to keep dues paid up in full. OT reported by deck delegate. No Next port: Diego Garcia. beefs or disputed OT reported by en­ SAM HOUSTON (Waterman Steam­ gine or steward delegates. Crew thanked chief steward, chief cook and ship), July 2-7-Chairman Bobby Rlddick. Secretary C. Rooks, GSU Jose Bermudez for jobs well Educational Director E. Neatbery, done. Deck Delegate James Walker, OVERSEAS ALASKA (Maritime Steward Delegate Ronnie Moore. Overseas), July 18—Chairman A. J. Chairman asked contracts department Eckert, Secretary J. Weedi Educa­ to send all correspondence directly to tional Director T. Kreutzer, Deck bosun and not to officers. Crew Delegate G.R. Christianson, Engine reported mail not being received once Delegate J. Brown, Steward on ship. Chairman reminded crew­ Delegate J. Garton. Chairman members to keep noise down. reported captain will have payoff as SEA-LAND ACHIEVER (Sea-Land soon as money arrives. Educational Service), July 25—Chairman James director reminded members to Davis, Secretary Felipe Orlanda, upgrade at Lundeberg School. Deck Educational Director A. Quinn, En­ delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by en­ gine Delegate Sheldon Greenberg, gine or steward delegates. Crew gave Steward Delegate Jose Santos. Chair­ man reported radio officer announced vote of thanks to SIU President telegram received from SIU head­ Michael Sacco for the work he's done for membership. Crew reported quarters regarding Sea-Land efforts to go foreign-flag but chairman had new pillows and mattresses needed. not received copy. Next port: Anacortes, Wash. Tacoma, Wash. SEA-LAND ATLANTIC (Sea-Land OVERSEAS HARRIETTE (Maritime Overseas), July 25—Chair­ Service), July 25—Chairman Calvin James, Secretary F. Costango, man P. Victor, Secretary Howard Educational Director Kevin DeSue, Williams, Deck Delegate P. Baker, Deck Delegate James Rush, Steward Engine Delegate W. Bloodworth, Delegate Donald Williams. Chair­ Steward Delegate Heath Bryan. man discussed cleaning of crew Secretary announced this is second lounge and asked members not to trip to Klaipeda, Lithuania with load leave dirty dishes in lounge over­ of com. No beefs or disputed OT night. Chairman reminded crew to reported. Crew noted Seafarers NORTHERN LIGHTS (lOM), July LOGs and ship's mail received in check heat and air conditioning vents 25—Chairman Ray Waiters, and asked members keep mess room English Channel and new washing Secretary Kenneth Whitfield, Educa­ machine for crew arrived. They furniture in good condition. Secretary tional Director K. Jordan, Deck reported pleasant voyage where announced all cargo will be dis­ Delegate T.Jackson, Engine everyone respects each other and charged between New York and Bos­ Delegate Charles Kennedy, Steward gave special thanks to gourmet chefs ton and ship will go into shipyard in Delegate Christopher Green. Chair­ Howard Williams and Heath Bryan Norfolk, Va for 7-8 days. He an­ man reported new items on order. for excellent food. Crew reported nounced no layoffs. No beefs or dis­ Secret^ said captain praised puted OT reported. Crew reported crew mess overhead needs repair. crewmembers' work and reported Seafarers LOGs received and dis­ payoff will be at sea. Educational OVERSEAS NEW ORLEANS tributed to all departments. Crew ap­ director urged members to upgrade (Maritime Overseas), July 18—Chair­ proved motion that air cooling and skills at Lundeberg School. No beefs man Sonny Pinkham, Secretary D. heating units and bulkheads be or disputed OT reported. Next port: Brown, Educational Director Gerald cleaned once a month and painted each year. Next port: Boston. The Perfect Splice r rff'v"?''" • % Deck department members aboard the USNS Wilkes splice a large eye in one of the ship's mooring lines. Instructing in proper splicing procedures aboard the oceanographic survey ship is Bosun "Skip Yager (right). Chief Mate Fred Smallwood observes while AB Jake Jacobs and OSs John Kaack and Matt Sandy work on the splice. SEA-LAND DEFENDER (SeaLand Service), July 9—Chairman G.M. Westphal, Secretary John Alamar, Educational Director Joe Barry. Chairman reported receiving second-hand information regarding Sea-Land ships going foreign-flag but telegram from SIU headquarters had not yet arrived. Educational direc­ tor urged members to upgrade skills at Lundeberg School and reminded them all information available aboard ship. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next port: Oakland, Calif. SEA-LAND DISCOVERY(SeaLand Service), July 17—Chairman A. Trikoglou, Secretary J. Colls, Educational Director J.Shuler, Deck Delegate E. Ortega, Engine Delegate J. Guaris, Steward Delegate A. Colon. Chairman reported everything running smoothly with ship out of shipyard. Secretary gave vote of thanks to deck department for good paint job in passageways. He reported new water cooler needed in mess room. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang for job well done. Next port: Elizabeth, N.J. SEA-LAND ENTERPRISE (SeaLand Service), July 11—Chairman Elex Cary Jr., Secretary E.M. Douroudous, Educational Director R. Chapman. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew reported every­ thing running smoothly. 2400. He informed crew information from SIU headquarters has not been sent to ship concerning Sea-Land's recent statement to re-flag 13 ships. He reminded crewmembers signing off to clean rooms and refurbish with Ambassadorial BBQ SEA-LAND EXPRESS(Sea-Land Service), July 11—Chairman Ray Ramirez, Secretary G. Bryant Jr., Educational Director A. Bell, Deck Delegate Timothy Smith, Engine Delegate Gebar Oghe, Steward Delegate Fadel Abdulla. Disputed OT reported by steward delegate. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck or engine delegates. Chairman reminded crewmembers no smoking in mess room during meals. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. SEA-LAND INNOVATOR (SeaLand Service), July 11—Chairman Claude Dockrey, Secretary Jose Bayani, Educational Director War­ ren Wright, Deck Delegate Charles Howell, Engine Delegate Frank Alshaif. Steward Delegate Rafaelita Griego. Secretary gave vote of thanks to deck and engine depart­ ments for clean ship inside and out. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed Sea-Land an­ nouncement to re-flag. Chairman reminded crewmembers to clean cabin before signing off. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. Chief Cook Floyd Bishop does some grilling on the deck of the Crowley Ambassador. clean linens for new persons coming aboard. Treasurer reported $55 in ship's fund. Beef and disputed OT reported by steward delegate. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck or engine delegate. SEA-LAND NAVIGATOR (SeaSEA-LAND SPIRIT(Sea-Land Ser­ Land Service), July 25—Chairman vice), July 4-^—Chairman R. CleWerner Becher, Secretary Ceasar Blanco, Educational Director Walter mente. Secretary S. Apodaca, Educational Director C. Henley, Stevens, Deck Delegate K. Hagar^ Deck Delegate T. Doi, Engine Steward Delegate Vir^lio Hof­ Delegate C.Medeiros, Steward fmann. Chairman reminded crew­ members to keep rooms locked while Delegate G. Lee. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Crew reported in port because ship's VCR was stolen in Oakland, Calif. Secretary an­ couch and chair in crew recreation room need to be reupholstered. Crew nounced intention of keeping in touch with chairman concerning daily gave vote of thanks to steward depart­ ment for job well done. Next port: events. Educational director reported Honolulu. crew well informed. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Crew discussed SEA-LAND SHINING STAR (Seanegotiation extension. Land Service), July 6—Chairman SEA-LAND PACER(Sea-Land Ser­ Joseph Colangelo, Secretary Miguel Pahon, Educational Director vice), July 18—Chairman Lance Thomas Priscu, Deck Delegate Her­ Zollner, Secretary W. Wroten, nando Bansuelo, Engine Delegate Educational Director S. Acosta, Deck Delegate Rudy Asopardo, En- Gary Mitchell, Steward Delegate Allan Sim. Educational director !;ine Delegate Sotmy Acosta, urged members to upgrade at Piney Steward Delegate Jim Ahellano. Point. Deck delegate reported dis­ Chairman reported he called con­ puted OT. No beefs or disputed OT tracts department for information on Sea-Land's efforts to go foreign-flag. by engine or steward delegates. Chair­ He reported Vice President Contracts man praised members upgrading at Augie Tellez stated union is working Limdeberg School and stressed im­ portance of advancing oneself through Congress and other avenues to prevent this from occurring. Chair­ through education. man discussed Department of SEA-LAND TACOMA (Sea-Land Defense policy of allocating monies Service), July 8—Chairman Robert to vessels with military capabilities. Stuverud, Educational Director C. Educational director urged members Piper. Treasurer reported $715 in to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. No reefs or disputed OT reported. Mem- ship's fund. Chairman noted twomonth extension on contract and Sea1 rers requested information concern­ Land's announcement to transfer 13 ing negotiations and foreign-flag ships to foreip-flag. Crewmembers transfers. Next port: Yokohama, discussed retirement benefits and Japan. thanked steward department for job well done. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. SEA-LAND PERFORMANCE (Sea-Land Service), July 11—Chair­ SEA-LAND TRADER (Sea-Land man R. Moss, Secretary Gary GrisService), July 4—Chairman L.E. wold. Educational Director Arthur Watson, Secretary J.Johnson, Rhymes. Chairman announced Educational Director R. Risbeck, notice from headquarters regarding Deck Delegate George Vukmir, En­ 60-day extension on contract. Chair­ gine Delegate Ronald Swanson, man discussed retirement benefits Steward Delegate Mohamed Shibly. and seatime with crewmembers. No Chairman handed out sample letter to beefs or disputed OT reported. Chair­ union members to send to U.S. repre­ man discussed letter from head­ sentatives and senators in support of quarters concerning Sea-Lands's legislation for revitalization of U.S. petition to MarAd to re-flag 13 ships. merchant marine. No beefs or disputed Crewmembers asked contracts QT reported. Crew gave vote of thanks departiAent to look into union com­ to galley gang for great food and salad plying with new federal law allow­ bar. ing up to 12 weeks personal leave without loss of job. Crew also asked SEA-LAND VALUE (Sea-Land Ser­ contracts department to look into vice), July 9—Chairman Grarge Wil­ amending shipping rules regarding son, Secretary A. Hassan, Educational length of time per voyage. Next Director Steve Miller. No beefs or dis­ port: Boston. puted OT reported. Crewmembers discussed Sea-Land's announcement SEA-LAND PRODUCER (Sea- ' to re-flag vessels and reported feel­ Land Service), July 16—Chairman ings of sadness and anger. Secretary . ack Edward, Secretary Jennifer said new towels received and gave . lim. Educational Director Jim Smit- vote of thanks to steward departto. Chairman reported arrival in Oakand, Calif, on Tuesday July 13 at Continued on page 24 . L: . .r'- •/;y - v /"'/:- �saawiiiisLoe 23 0CR»fff f 993 Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The PAYMENT OF MONIES. No constitution of the SIU Atlantic, monies are to be paid to anyone in any Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters Dis­ official capacity in the SIU unless an trict makes specific provision for official union receipt is given for safeguarding the membership's same. Under no circumstances money and union finances. The should any member pay any money constitution requires a detailec for any reason unless he is given such audit by certified public account­ receipt. In the event anyone attempts ants every year, which is to be sub­ to require any such payment be made mitted to the membership by the without supplying a receipt, or if a secretary-treasurer. A yearly finance member is required to make a pay­ committee of rank-and-file mem­ ment and is given an official receipt, bers, elected by the membership, but feels that he or she should not each year examines the finances of have been required to make such pay­ the union and reports fully their find­ ment, this should immediately be ings and recommendations. Mem­ reported to union headquarters. bers of this committee may make CONSTITUTIONAL dissenting reports, specific recom­ RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. mendations and separate findings. Copies of the SIU constitution are TRUST FUNDS. All trus available in all union halls. All mem­ funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, bers should obtain copies of this conLakes and Inland Waters District stitution so as to familiarize are administered in accordance themselves with its contents. Any with the provisions of various trust time a member feels any other mem­ fund agreements. All these agree­ ber or officer is attempting to deprive ments specify that the trustees in him or her of any constitutional right charge of these funds shall equally or obligation by any methods, such as consist of union and management dealing with charges, trials, etc., as representatives and their alternates. well as all other details, the member All expenditures and disburse­ so affected should immediately , ments of trust funds are made only notify headquarters. upon approval by a majority of the EQUAL RIGHTS. All mem­ trustees. All trust fund financial bers are guaranteed equal rights in records' are available at the head­ employment and as rhembers of the quarters of the various trust funds. SIU. These rights are clearly set SHIPPING RIGHTS. A forth in the SIU constitution and in member's shipping rights and the contracts which the union has seniority are protected exclusively negotiated with the employers. by contracts between the union and Consequently, no member may be the employers. Members should get discriminated against because of to know their shipping rights. race, creed, color, sex, national or Copies of these contracts are posted geographic origin. If any member and available in all union halls. If feels that he or she is denied the members believe there have been equal rights to which he or she is violations of their shipping or entitled, the member should notify seniority rights as contained in the union headquarters. contracts between the union and the SEAFARERS POLITICAL employers, they should notify the ACTIVITY DONATION — Seafarers Appeals Board by cer­ SPAD. SPAD is a separate tified mail, return receipt requested. segregated fund. Its proceeds are The proper address for this is: used to further its objects and pur­ Augustin Tellez, Chairman poses including, but not limited to, Seafarers Appeals Board furthering the political, social and 5201 Auth Way economic interests of maritime Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred workers, the preservation and fur­ to are available to members at all thering of the American merchant times, either by writing directly to the marine with improved employment union or to the Seafarers Appeals opportunities for seamen and boat­ men and the advancement of trade Board. union concepts. In connection with CONTRACTS. Copies of all such objects, SPAD supports and SIU contracts are available in all SIU contributes to political candidates halls. These contracts specify the for elective office. All contribu­ wages and conditions under which an tions are voluntary. NcyxontribuSIU member works and lives aboard tion may be solicited ar^eceived a ship or boat. Members should know because of force, job di^riminatheir contract rights, as well as their tion, financial reprisal, or threat of obligations, such as filing for over­ such conduct, or as a condition of time (OT) on the proper sheets and in membership in the union or of the proper manner. If, at any time, a employment. If a contribution is member believes that an SIU patrol­ made by reason of the above im­ man or other union official fails to proper conduct, the member should protect their contractual rights notify the Seafarers International properly, he or she should contact the Union or SPAD by certified mail nearest SIU port agent. within 30 days of the contribution EDITORIAL POLICY — for investigation and appropriate THE SEAFARERS LOG. The action and refund, if involuntary. Seafarers LOG traditionally has A member should support SPAD refrained from publishing any ar­ to protect and further his or her ticle serving the political purposes economic, political and social in­ of any individual in the union, of­ terests, and American trade union ficer or member. It also has concepts. refrained from publishing articles If at any time a member feels deemed harmful to the union or its that any of the above rights have collective membership. This estab­ been violated, or that he or she has lished policy has been reaffirmed been denied the constitutional right by membership action at the Sep­ of access to union records or infor­ tember 1960 meetings in all con­ mation, the member should imme­ stitutional ports. The diately notify SIU President responsibility for Seafarers LOG Michael Sacco at headquarters by policy is vested in an editorial certified mail, return receipt re­ board which consfists of the ex­ quested. The address is: ecutive board of the union. The Michael Sacco, President executive board may delegate, Seafarers International Union from among its ranks, one in­ 5201 Auth Way dividual to carry out this respon­ Camp Springs, MD 20746. sibility. i J.:: h-1 ! 7 Opportunities '7-- •. ' ' . .i'' • The cost of a college education continues to rise each yean But for Seafarers and their dependents, help In realizing their educational goals Is available in the for/n of $15,000and $6,000 awards from the Seafarers Scholarship Program. ELIGIBILITY In 1994, the union will offer seven scholarships. Four are set aside for the children and spouses of Seafarers. Each of these four sfcholarships is for $15,000 to be used at a four-year college or university. The other three are for Seafarers themselves. One of the awards is for $15,000 for use at a four-year institution of higher learning. The remaining two scholar­ ships amount to $6,000 each and may be used for study at a community college or vocational school. Eligibility requirements for Seafarers and their spouses and unmarried dependent children are spelled out in a booklet which contains an ap­ plication form. It is available by filling out and returning the coupon below to the Seafarers Welfare Plan. DEADLINES Completed applications with all hececessary information included MUST be mailed and postmarked ON or BEFORE APRIL 15,1994. The SAT and ACT exams are given ap­ proximately six times a year on .specified dates. Applicants should be sure to take whichever exam is required by the college or trade school they plan to attend. (Tests must be taken by FEBRUARY1994 to ensure the results will be available for inclusion in the scholarship ap­ plication package.) Scholarship recipients must enroll in a college or trade school and notify the Seafarers Welfare Plan of their admission by AUGUST 1, 1994. Winners of the $15,000 award must complete the program within six years. Seafarers who receive the $6,000 award must complete their programs in four years. "' '• ••-V CHECKLIST The deadline for applying is April 15, 1994. Completing the application form, itself, is not very difficult. What will take more time, however, is gathering all the other necessary paperwork. Items that will need to be postmarked by that date for review by the Scholarship Committee include: • Scholarship application • Autobiographical statement • Photograph • Certified copy of birth certificate • High school transcript and certification of graduation or official copy of high st:Hool equivalency scores. • College transcript • Letters of reference SAT or ACT test results. Remember, it will take time to gather all this information. Plan ahead to make sure every­ thing will be collected in time. Some schools can be slow in handling transcript requests, so applicants should ask for them as soon as pos­ sible. Also, now is a good time for the applicant to start thinking about who should be asked to write letters of recommendation. Mall In this coupon for more application details: lease send me the 1994 SIU Scholarship Program booklet which contains eligibility information, procedures for applying and the I application form. P Name i - Book Number I Address City, State, Zip Code _ _ _ Telephone Nurnber _ _^ This application is for: • Self • ' • •••7.":^'.^-, • O Dependent Mail this completed form to Scholarship Program, Seafarers Welfare Plan, 5201 Auth Way. Camp Springs. MD 20746. 10/93 �'•'i-r -;: v t- .- 24 Ships Digest Continued fivm page 22 ment for job well done. Next port: Elizabeth, NJ. !. CjA.c' •» ' SEALin-ARABIAN SEA (IMC), July 20—Chairman J.T. Prather, Secretary Fred Clark, Deck Delegate Kimberly Clark, Engine Delegate Charles Mispagei, Steward Delegate A. Avila. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang for great food and good service. Next port: Mar­ tinez, Calif. SEAUFT INDIAN OCEAN (TMC), July 2^1—Chairman Mike Moore, En gine E)elegate Victor Mondecl, Steward Delegate E. Rodriguez. Chairman read president's report from July Seafarers LOG. Treasurer reported $200 in ship's fiind for VCR and new tapes. Bosun requested union patrolman visit vessel as soon as possible. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward delegate reported trouble acquiring stores. Crew reported need for new dryer and refrigerator. • -i STONEWELL JACKSON(Wateiman Steamship), July 11—Chairrrian Carl Lineberry, Secretary Victor Acevedo, Educational Director L.V. Hargesheimer, Engine Delegate M. Hill. Educational director encouraged members to attend Paul Hall Center. Treasurer reported $675 in movie fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested new mat­ tress for each bunk. Next port: New­ port News, Va. SUGAR ISLANDER (Pacific Gulf Marine), July 2—Chairman Michael Thornton, Deck Delegate Charles McPherson, Engine Delegate Hermus Patrick, Steward Delegate Roberto Escobar. Chairman reported carpets replaced and tiles in­ stalled in engine department, and shampoo and vacuum cleaner needed. He also reported smooth sailing and reminded members to utilize Piney Point facilities for upgrading. Secretary reported smooth cruise with good crew. He thanked crewmembers for keeping ship tidy. Educational director reminded mem­ bers upgrading is key to future. He also reminded crewmembers to turn in all movies before arriving in port. Treasurer reported $400 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman gave vote of thanks to ABs and entire crew for as­ sembling and delivering clothes, toys, medicine, food and candy to children in orphanages in Klaipeda, Lithuania. Crew reported looking forward to doing same next trip. Crew gave vote of thanks to steward department. Next port: New Orleans. 'r OCTORER1993 SEAFARERS LOG DSNS WILKES (Bay Ship Manage­ OVERSEAS NEW YORK (Maritime Overseas), August 1— ment), July 26—Chairman Skip Chairman Sal Lagare, Secretary Yager, Secretary K. Dougherty, Tohe Dansley Jr., Educational Direc­ Educational Director CJ. Brown, tor C. Boudreaxux, Deck E)elegate Deck Delegate Tom Skuhina, En­ gine Delegate Mike Renter, Steward W. Sellers, Steward Delegate C. Gooch. Chairman announced con­ Delegate Don Mann. Chairman praised crew on appearance of vessel tract negotiations continue and new agreement should be reached in next and thanked everyone for working 60 days. Secretary urged members extra hard preparing for quality who have never upgraded to visit evaluation inspection. He also thanked steward department for great Piney Point and upgrade for higher ratings and enjoy school's beautiful chow. Treasurer reported $313 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT surroundings. Educational director reminded members upgrading means reposed. Crew asked contracts department to look into length of stay more pork chops on table and en­ couraged all eligible crewmembers to aboard vessel for crewmembers and upgrade. No beefs or disputed OT back safety bonuses not received. Crew reported soda machine not full. reported. Crew reported washing machine and dryer need repairs. Crew gave special thanks to Adeile Crew thanked galley gang for good George for her tour of cheerful and food. Crew requested new microwave good service as crew mess person. and suggested professional fumiga­ Crew reported Seafarers LOGs not tion once every 30 days. Crew being received in timely manner. reported all members happy and re­ Next port: Sasebo, Japan. quested new linens aboard vessel. AMERICAN KESTREL (Osprey Next port: Honolulu. Shipping), August 12—Chairman PFC JAMES ANDERSON John Higdon, Secretary X. Aquino, Educational Director Joe Overstreet, (Maersk Lines), August 7—Chair­ Deck Delegate Jerry Smith, Steward man T. Anderson, Secretary Hugh Wildermuth, Educational Director Delegate Brenda Cheatham. Chair­ L. Cockrane, Deck Delegate J. man asked contracts department to Hailstone, Steward Delegate E. Casprovide ship with detailed informa­ tain. Chairman reported outstanding tion regarding contract negotiations. SIU crew aboard vessel with all Educational director encouraged lands working together for better members to upgrade at Lundeberg ship. He also reported ship has best School. Deck delegate asked con­ galley gang in Diego Garcia with deli­ tracts department for clear descrip­ cious food. He complimented deck tion of watch procedures and department on hard work getting payment of overtime. Engine delegate reported disputed OT. vessel back in shape after Somalia. Steward delegate reported beef. Crew Educational director urged members reported excellent communication on to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer reported $300 in ship's ship. Crew requested patrolman next "und. No beefs or disputed OT port. Steward delegate noted outdated reported. Next port: Diego Garcia. stores coming aboard ship. ITS PHILADELPHIA (Sheridan Transportation), August 1^—Chair­ man V.T. Nielsen, Secretary F. DiCarlo, Educational Director M. Rullan, Deck Delegate C. Brown, hgine Delegate Carlos Bonefont, Steward Delegate Jack Hart. Steward delegate gave vote of thanks to crew for keeping ship clean. Crew requested new TV. Next port: New York. LNG AQUARIUS (ETC), August 5—Chairman Carlos Pineda, Secretary F. Robertson, Educational Director W. Fay, Deck Delegate lobby Branham, Engine Delegate Wesley Wise. Chairman reported smooth sailing and commented on imiroved food since Chief Steward Robertson and Cook M. Buck signed on. Chairman announced Executive Vice President Joe Sacco and SlU Representative Sal Aquia in Japan; crew will have chance to discuss con­ tract with them while in port. Educa­ tional director urged members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. 'reasurer reported $100 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT DSNS KANE(Bay Ship Manage­ reported. Chairman discussed safety ment), July 11—Chairman Joe and stressed all crewmembers should Jenkins, Secretary Jeff Smith, be careful on deck when chipping is Steward Delegate Maircelino Anleing done and grease is present. He dino. Chairman announced recreation also reminded crew to keep noise fund will be used for purchase of down and be careful in weight room. videotapes and refreshments for dock- Next port: Himeji, Japan. side crew party in Naples, Italy. Educational director discussed impor­ OMI SACRAMENTO (Ogden tance of upgrading at Lundeberg Marine), August 8—Chairman Ray School. Chief Steward Smith an­ Gorju, Secretary T. Davalie, Educa­ nounced he had just returned from tional Director Alton Hickman. baking course there and praised Chairman advised crewmembers con­ quality of instruction and facilities. tract issues being worked out by Treasurer reported $595.60 in ship's union and companies and reminded fund. Disputed OT reported by them current contract still valid. steward delegate. No beefs or dis­ Secretary thanked crew for being puted OT reported by deck or engine cooperative with galley gang and delegate. D^k delegate noted con­ commented on wonderful crew cern by deck department members aboard ship. Educational director regarding explosives in cargo aboard thanked crewmembers for job well ship and asked contracts department done and encouraged them to for detailed information concerning upgrade at Lundeberg School. He explosives. Chairman announced ship also discussed importance of upgrad­ selected to host annual "Project ing. No beefs or disputed OT Marco Polo" conducted by U.S. Navy reported. Chairman reported telex Oceanographic Office in coordination rom headquarters regarding exten­ with National Geographic Society. sion of contract post^. Educational He reported project designed to foster director discuss^ importance of con­ interest in oceanography and ocean tacting congressmen concerning Seasciences. The best and brightest high .^nd's announcement to re-flag. school science students and teachers Crew thanked steward department for are selected to participate in short job well done. Crew reported slow . cruises to give them hands-on ex­ mail service and Seafarers LOGs not perience in physical oceanography. lieing received. Next port: Baltimore. SEA-LAND ANCHORAGE (SeaLand Service), August 4—Chairqian Garry Walker, Secretary Scott Opsahl, Educational Director Marvin Wells, Deck Delegate Jusuf Djuned, Engine Delegate Al Hansen, Steward Delegate Frank Martin. Chairman announced payoff and contract exten­ sion. Secretary thanked crew for keep­ ing mess hall and pantry clean. Educational director stressed impor­ tance of upgrading at Piney Point and reported hazardous materials training will be mandatory. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Crew gave spe­ cial thanks to Bosun Walker's wife, Letty Jo, for homemade cookies and jams. Chairman reminded crewmem­ bers to use only enough soap for washing clothes—otherwise it backs up in one of ship's showers. He reminded crew to keep volume down on new speaker system in lounge. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. very tasty. Crew also thanked steward department for their part in making it an unforgettable barbecue Treasurer reported $55 in ship's emer gency fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman reminded mem­ bers to check bulletin board for latest news concerning re-flagging issue with Sea-Land. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. SEA-LAND SHINING STAR (SeaLand Service), August 3—Chairman Joseph Colangelo, Secretary Miguel Pahon, Educational Director Thomas Friscu, Engine Delegate Gary Mitchell, Steward Delegate Allan Sim. Chairman reported con­ tract extension. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew gave special thanks to galley gang for doing excel­ lent job. SEA-LAND PACIFIC (Sea-Land Service), Auguist 2—Chairman Hayden GifTord, Secretary G. Bronson. Educational Director Steve Blgelow, Deck Delegate Tillman Churchman, Engine £)elegate Gor­ don Hilthruner, Steward Delegate Donald Spangler. Chairman reported 60-day contract extension and urged members to donate to SPAD and upgrade at Piney Point. Educational director reminded crew­ members not to throw plastic over side or in port. Treasurer reported $185 in ship's fund and $85 in movie fund. No bwfs or disputed OT reported. Crew reported Seafarers LOGs received. Crew requested new cabinet for movies in crew lounge. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang. Steward delegate reminded members to pick up ice that drops on floor from ice machine. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. SEA-LAND SPIRIT(Sea-Land Ser­ vice), August 1—Chairman Howard Glhbs, Secretary S. Apodaca, Educa­ tional Director C. Henley, Deck Delegate Romeo Lugtu, Engine Delegate Charles Medeiros, Steward Delegate Joe Tucker. Chairman an­ nounced ship's arrival in Oakland and Long Beach, Calif. Secretary urged members to upgrade skills at Lundeberg School. Educational direc­ tor stressed importance of SPAD donations. Treasurer reported $436 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman posted two letters from headquarters. Crew gave vote of thanks to steward department for job well done. Next port: Honolulu. SEA-LAND PRODUCER (SeaLand Service), August 8—Chairman Jack Edwards, Secretary Donna Clemens, Educational Director Her­ man Manzer, Deck Delegate Raymond Vicari, Engine Delegate Leonard Vlles, Steward Delegate N. Ball. Chairman reported shortage of Seafarers LOGs for crewmembers. Crew gave vote of thanks to Captain Cocozza and Chief Engineer Robin­ son and his department for great pig roast. Crew reported Amold the pig SEA-LAND PACIFIC (Sea-Land Service), August 1—Chairman David Zurek, Secretary Stephen Bird, Educational Director Jason Etnoyer. Educational director reported upgrading forms for Lundeberg School are available. Treasurer reported $231 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew reported new mattresses and pillows needed. Crewmembers observed mo­ ment of silence in memory of departed brothers and sisters. The Seafarers LOG is interested in publishing a greater number of photos of SIU members' families at home or on vacation. Color as well as black-and-white photographs are acceptable. When sending photos to the LOG, be sure to identify the individuals from left to right. Also, indicate if the photo should be returned. Send photos and identifications to Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. •V': it-." �OCTOBER 1993 SEAFARBHSLOG 25 • DEEP SEA joined the union in 1987 in the port of San Francisco. Brother Hall sailed as a QMED. WILLIAM ALLEN Pensioner WHilliam Allen, 84, passed away February 16. He joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1949 in his native Seattle, before that union merged, vndi the Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters Di^ trict (AGUWD) of the SIU. He sailed as a chief steward. Brother Allen retired in Sqrtember 1976. GEORGE ALTSCHAFFL Pensioner George Altschaffl, 66, died August 26. Bom in Platsmouth, Neb., he joined the uriion in 1959 in the port of New York. Brother Altschaffl s^led in the steward departmerit. He upgraded at the Lundeberg School in 1978. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1945 to 1946. Brother Altschaffl began receiving his pension in September 1992. STEPHEN ARALES Pensioner Stephen Arales,90, passed away August 4. A native of the Philippines, he joined the Seafarers in 1949 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Brother Arales sailed in the steward department. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1921 to 1947. Brother Arales retired in November 1971. EDWARD BROOKS JR. Pensioner Ed­ ward Brooks Jr., 77, died Au^st 30. He joined the SIU in 1973 in his native New Orleans. Brother Brooks sailed in both the steward and engine departmeiits. He served in the U.S. Army from 1952 to 1956. Brother Brooks began receiving his pen­ sion in March 1991. EDWARD BURKE JR. Edward Burke Jr., 32, died August 11. Bora in Boston, he graduated from the Lun­ deberg School in 1978. Brother Burice sailed in the deck depart­ ment. He upgraded at Piney Point in 1980. FRANK CHAVERS Pensioner Frank Chavers, 68, passed away Aupst 20. A native of Mobile, Ala., he joined the Seafarers in 1947 in the port of Galveston, Texas. Brother Chavers sailed in the engine depart­ ment. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to 1946. Brother Chavers retired in June 1983. FRANK HALL Frank Hall, 65, passed away July 30. A Pennsylvania native, he WOODROW CUNNINGHAM Pensioner Woodrow Cunningham, 68, died August 23. Bora in Rome, Ga., he joined the SIU in 1965 in the port of Tampa, Fla. Brother Cunningham sailed in the deck department. He served in the U.S. Army from 1943 tb 1950. Brother Cunningham shipped from Jacksonville, Fla. prior to retiring. JUSTING MOLINA Pensioner Justino Molina, 73, died August 18. Bora in Puer­ to Rico, he joined the Seafarers in the Philip­ pines in 1944. Brother Molina sailed in the steward department. He began receiving his pension in June 1979. MANUEL NOBLE Pensioner Manuel Noble, 84, passed away July 24. Bora in ^e Philip­ pines, he joined the SIU in 1947 in the port of Mew York. He sailed in the steward department. Brother Noble retired in June 1976. n DERRICK NORBERT Derrick Norbert,23, passed away August 3. A Louisiana na­ tive, he graduated from the Paul Hall Center in 1992. Brother Norbert sailed in the engine depart­ ment. NASON NUNN Pensioner Nason Nunn, 74, died June 26. Bora in Michigan, he joined the SIU in 1947 in the port of New York. Brother Nunn sailed in the engine department. He began receiving his pension in January 1981. receiving his pension in January 1984. to 1945. Brother Wilson began receiving his pension in May 1991. WALLACE PERRY Pensioner WaUace Perry, 60, died July 29. Bora in Washington, D.C., he joined the SIU in 1951 in the port of Philadelphia. Brother Perry com­ pleted the bosun recertification course at the Lundeberg School in 1974. He retired in February 1990. INLAND PAUL TURNER Pensioner Paul Turner, 66, died August 17. Bora in Ten­ nessee, he joined the Seafarers in 1947 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Brother Turner com- . pleted the bosun recertiilcation course at Piney Point in 1974. He served in the U.S. Navy fixrm 1944 to 1946. Late in his seafaring careo-. Brother Tumo- sailed primarily aboard Crowley RO/RO vessels. Following his retirement in January 1992, he volunteered time to assist at the counter in the Jacksonville, Fla hall. ELBERT WILSON Pensioner El­ bert Wilson, 67, passed away August 12. A native of Wallace, Ala. he joined the SIU in 1947 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Brother Wilson sailed in the steward department. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1943 LOUIS BROUSSARD Pensioner Louis Broussard, 86, died August 16. Bora in Louisiana, he joined the union in 1963 in the port of Port Arthur, Texas. Boatman Broussard sailed as an oiler. He retired in April 1975. EDWARD COVACEVICH Pensioner Edward Covacevich, 66, passed away August 16. He joined the SIU in 1957 in his native Bal­ timore. Boatman Covacevich sailed as a captain. He began receiving his pension in January 1988. JAMES HASSELL Pensioner James Hassell, 80, died August 28. A Columbia, N.C. na­ tive, he joined the Seafarers in 1961 in the port of Philadelphia. Boatman Hassel sailed in the deck department. He retired in Novem­ ber 1975. JOHNNY JEFFCOAT Johtmy Jeffcoat, 35, passed away July 30. A native of Red Level, Ala., he joined the union in 1988 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Boatmari Jeffcoat sailed in both the deck and oigine departments. He served in the U.S. Army from 1977 to 1979. LELAND LARRIMORE Pensioner Leland Larrimore, 71, died August 9. Bora in Tilgham Is­ land, Md., he joined the SIU in 1966 in Baltimore. Boatman Lar­ rimore sailed in the deck depart­ ment, most recently as a captain. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to 1945. Boatman Larrimore retired in December 1985. THEOSOILEAU Theo Soileau, 69, passed away August 13. A Louisiana native, he joined the Seafarers in 1976 in the port of Port Arthur, Texas. Boat­ man Soileau sailed as a tankerman. jv". 3' : v' JAMES WALLACE Pensioner James Wal­ lace, 75, died August 1. He joined the SIU in 1968 in his native Baltimore. He upgraded frequently at the Lundeberg School. His last ves­ sel before retiring in April 1983 was the Papa Guy, on which he sailed as a captain. GREAT LAKES DONALD HORN Donald Horn, 46, passed away Novem­ ber 11, 1992. Bora in Michigan, he joined the union in 1970 in the port of Detroit. Brother Horn sailed in the steward department. ATLANTIC FISHERMEN MICHAEL MILITELLO Pensioner Michael Militello, 79, died August 22. He joined the Seafarers in 1941 in his native Gloucester, Mass. Brother Militello sailed in the deck department. He retired in April 1978. SAMUEL SCOLA Pensioner Samuel Scola, 65, passed away June 5. He joined the SIU in 1966 in his native Boston. Brother Scola sailed in the deck department. He served in the U.S. Army from 1946 to 1948. He began receiving his pension in November 1974. ,. ^ ' k- • Good Eatin' Any Time, Any Place I'- • : • h' •. • 'y fc-;, •f • Members of the steward department aboard the Sea-Land Value prepare another fine meal. They are Chief Steward Abdul Hassan (left) and Chief Cook Francisco Tirado. Chief Cook Audrey Brown ^ets the grill going aboard the Sgt. Matej Kocak for a Labor Day bartrecue. ESPERPERDI Pensioner Esper Perdi, 69, passed away August 21. A native of Estonia, he joined the Seafarers in 1966 in the port of New Orleans. Brother Perdi began receiving his pension in May 1988. ISIDORO SALVADOR Pensioner Isidoro Salvador, 84, passed away August 4. A native of the Philippines, he joined the union in 1962 in the port of Seattle. Brother Salvador sailed in the steward department. He began A holiday meal marks the special day for C.S. Global Link crewmembers who otherwise are engaged in the daily duties ofr operating operatinc the vessel. The holiday ef­ fort is put forward by steward department mem­ bers (back row, from left) Steward Assistant William Brown, Chief Cook Cheryl Neff, Steward Assistant Eric Jeffers, Chief Steward Ronald Malozi, (front row) Cook/Baker George Sasaki and BR Ben Mathews. y. : 1- Jji / '.-,1 ' • .-v' ••• i �• ....; ^jnKi I'• J-»'l.*'*-r>n.'Vi^ • OCTOBER 1993 SEAFMERSLOG a'- ^••, • • • \ Lundeberg School Graduating Classes '.V y''\-^pyM/' Trainee Lifeboat Class 514—Graduating from trainee lifeboat class 514 are (from left, kneeling) Kenneth Creque Jr., Edward Grey, Julio Buchanan, James Crisler, James Tran, Leo Flynn, Selley Washington, Fhab Ghelth, (second row) Richard Taylor, Aaron Braaten, Lorenzo Sereno, Robert Clemens, Nawa Williams, Samuel Ramos Jr., Anthony Lozopone, Jim Brown (Instructor), William Todd Stringer, Sean Jones, Alex Lottig, Anestacio Sereno Jn and Kurt Bruer. Celestial Navigation—Upgrading ^vig, ._ _ SlU members completing , the celestial navigation course are (from left) Jake KaraczynskI (Instructor), Edward Dwyer, Tom Culpepper, Jeffrey Sousa, Drexel Hanna and Reglna Ewlng. - i • Able Bodied Seaman—Certificates of completion were received by the August 24 class of f i «row..=.teo^ «f fho I..K. OO upgraders. They are (from left, kneeling) Tom Gllllard (Instructor), Kenneth Geter, Michael Flores, Angel pL^fl,.f r^oS Reyes, Anthony Zellars, Agulllo Llorente, (second row) Henry Jones, Santiago Cadiz, Tyrone Garcia, vnnnn ni^* ^'^®"®"^' ®'®"® Dale KIrsch Jr., George Dariey, Kevin Young, (third row) Jack Green, Michael Hill, Basslrou NIang, John Gotlschlich, Jeffrey Willis and Beckett Young III. Barnard III, Michael Struve and James Duffy. Oil Spill—Completing the oil spill emergency contal^ent and cleanup course on August 5 are (from left, sealed) Beckett Young III Charlotte Wlnstead, Pfm^^ing. Dor^y Ca^^^^ F^k Sealift—Graduating from the July 30 seallft class are (from left) Messick, Jeffrey Willis, (serond row) Gre^ry Melyjn, WalteVr^lman, WHie Marsh, ""^hanl ^^James Heiiewege (Instructor), Glenn Baker Jr., Shannon Teem, CharBrown, Michael Marlykan, Glenn Baker Jr., Dan Van Sciver, (third row) Ben Pierciey, David Bowles, Rick winstead, Walter Taulman and Allen Shaw. Bowman, Isalac Watts, Walter Seals, Shannon Teem and Casey Taylor (instmctor) v;;: • • Manne Electrical Maintenance— The August 10 graduates of the marine Third Mate—^Working their way up the deck department ratings are (from left, first electrical maintenance course are (from left, standing) Miguel Rivera, Robert Kerbo, Jorge row) John Gilliam, David Clements, John Brown, Ron Raykowski (Instructor), (second Bonelil, John Brooks, (seated) Duane Toistensen, (second row) Brian Sengelaub, Green row) Nii«)laus Itey^l, Charles SpradNn, Cecil Winstead, Stejshen Barry and Peter Dudley. Hoskins and Eric Malzkuhn (Instructor). : •/ �•, . •• .• . SBmUXKLOG OCWBER1993 LUHDEBERG SCHOOL 1993 UP6RADIHG COURSE SCHBHILE ^ Able Seaman Coiirse ._ Assistant Cook, Cook an^flpl^ Chief office for starting dates) AUoi office for startbig dato) Chief Ste^^ Novembers Radar Observer - Unlimited Novinnberi^^^^^ Celestial Navigbtbtii November 22 CbwitJiil Date cmtrs» Att students must take the Oil SpiU Prevention and Containment class. SblpbandUng ^. - • November 19 Marine Electronics Techiddhm II Hydraulics December 17 Diesd Enghie Tecbnplpgy Course Welding I ' Conqmbin Date Clujckrlii Date *s'' —, '• 'A' Lifeboatman October 11 November S • Decembers October 22 November 19 December 17 Basic/Advanced Fire Fighting November 2 Novcmberl2 Sealift Operations & Mwnlenance October 25 > Course !^un Recertifieation Cbeck-In Date Completion Date______ October 4 November S .Date of Birth (Ust) (Middle) (Firat) Ad(bess (Street) December IT 5qpteiid>erl3 Octobers November 22 Decaidierl7 October 25 November 19 | • Completion Date Course Cbeck-In Date School Equivalency (GED) Adult Education (ABE) Ei^sbasaSecondLangm^e(ESL) All open-e^rf , «i„rrtno (contact admissions office for startmg dates) November 19 As soon as the 1994 schedule of courses for the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of S^anslu^s finalized, it will be published m the Seafarers L^. Until that time, members may contact the adnussions office at the school at (301) 994-001() concemmg My questions or concerns they may have regardmg upgrading classes during the coming year. UP&tADIHO APPLHMTION Name. •. December 17 1992' November 8 , l^oy^iiberS The fbllbwing courses are available through the Sea^ Har^Xundeberg sgchool. Please contact the admissions office for enrq^paent mfMiha^ Oil Spill Preventioii and HCcntaibiDa^ ' •' • Con^pletion Date Alt sMienanmstukelheOa SpiU Prevenlion and Qmminnient class. pnmpinom Maint & Operations . r.Xi •" • -Si • .SfSXS. SV -f" December 17 Novembers CompletiQn Dale Check-In Date Comjj^eli^ Date Check-In Date Cdiffli! StMunf DMnHi&V CBHRM WSmiM-: is the current course schedule for classes beginning between S^hiber and the end of the year at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of SAanship located at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. All programs are geared to improve job skills of Seafarers md to promote the American maritime industry. , The course schedule may change to reflect the needs of the memberaUpi fhe maritime industry and—in tinaes of confUct—the nation's security. Z7 Mooth/Dey/Year _ Telephone _L time to e^h^Mng'Jhefirs,^^^^ and seniority, your clinic card and die firm, and sLn^in.,, ZJm^^^^'^sly^haceu^andconi^e,^ TheAdnnsrions OfficemU.NOTschedaley^aUofd,e^^eare,eceni DISCHARGE IIELD SHIPPED VESSEL . 6- LakeaMemberP Inland Wa«.s MemberP '•'"f • >• - ---r 1 X"?' •, v.1.' Deep Sea M^mberP '' I U-y-r-'-.-'A ,• , . .if. PamfioU ,f,HefoUo.in, infomoHcn is no. filled on, con.p,e,e,y, your appUcadon rriU no, * , jSocial Secunty # Book#, Seniority U.S. Citizen: DVes I am interested in the foUowi^ coiinie(s)checkedbeloworindicated here if not listed Department • No Home Port. Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held — • Yes Are you a graduate of the SHLSS trainee program? If yes, which program: from 1 cr ClNo to. U. jrv#a9 Last grade of Lritsi giaut wa school completed a a, J CUT QQ I Have you attended any SHLSS upgrading courses. If yes, course(s) taken — Have you taken any SHLSS Sealift Operations courses. • Ves DNO r-i QNO weeks have If yes, how many yecKs nave you jrkaa. completed?^ — Doyouhold.heU.S.CoastGuardUfeboa^anEndor»™n^^^ • Ves DNO Firefighting; • Yes GNO DECK AB/Sealift 1st Class Pilot Third Mate Radar ObserverUnlimited Master InspectedTowing Vessel • Towboat Operator Inland • Celestial Navigation • SimulatorCourse • • D • • ENGINE • Mamtenance • Pumproom Maintenance & Operation • Refrigeration Systems Maintenance & Operation • Diesel Engine Technology • Assistant Engineer/Chief Engineer Motor Vessel • Original 3id Engineer Steam or Motor • Re&igeratedContainers Advanced Maintenance • Electro-Hydraulic Systems D Automation D Hydraulics • Marine Electronics Technician D • • • Q STEWARD Assistant Cook Utility CotdcandBaker <3iiefCook Chief Steward Towboat Inland Cook • FOWT • QMED—Any Rating • Variable Speed DC Drive Systems (Marine Electronics) t.ti«.winirep--ta.ca;^wlth^^^J^^ Tri ALL DEPARTMENTS • Weldinc • lifeboatman (must be taken with another course) • Oil Si^Prevention & Containment • Basic/Advanced • Fire Fighting • Sealift ADULT EDUCATION DEPARTMENT • Adult Basic Education (ABE) • High School Equivalency Program (GED) • Developmental Studies(DVS) • English as a Second Language (ESL) • ABE/ESL Lifeboat Preparation (XttUECT PROGRAM • Associate in Arts Degree i, !-/ui-ri p: •IotlgiBal receiptsI Date available for training Primary language spoken ' •.•i. ippXPX-^'X;'; 'X^' , • • • • . -v : • I 'I .7 �f < SKAFAKKKX Seafarers ratify standard agreement and vote to accept new contracts witfi ETC, Great Lakes and Orgulf. For additional information, seepages 5,13,14and 15. October 1993 Volume 55, Number 10 Umdeberg SiHiotri IkHMiaes to nabi Seafaras In Hazardous Material OpwaOuK andMamflfira The Paul Hall Center for both basic and job-specific train­ industiy's needs and stay ahead o Maritime Training and Education ing for every hazmat employee new requirementseven before they continues to upgrade its hazarct- Therefore, instructors at the Pau are announced. The school began ous materials (hazmat) program Hall Center work with SlU-con- offering hazmat training in 1989, to meet and exceed new require­ tracted companies to meet their shortly after the Exxon Valdez spil ments recently set forth by the specific training needs. For ex­ but before the government requirec Department of Transportation ample, someone who operates a such training through theOil Pollu­ (DOT). forklift used to transport hazmai tion Act of 1990. The new DOT rule, which ap­ will need different job-specific Individual companies may or pears in docket HM-126F of the training than one who only loads may not require (and provide) Code of Federal Regulations Title and unloads hazmat. However, new job-specific training for 49, Part 172, Subpart H, amends the basic training for both members who already have com­ existing hazmat requirements and workers would be the same. pleted hazmat courses. Seafarers is intended to promote more Initial training, which lasts should be aware that any such thorough training of individuals eight or 16 hours depending the information will come via the involved in transporting hazard­ specific job of the employee, companies since, according the ous materials. HM 126-F gives must be completed by October 1 DOT, they must determine their individual companies the right to for anyone employed on or before training needs and trainers certify training, although such July 2, 1993. If employed after qualifications. training must comply with the that date, training must be com­ According to the DOT, rule, which says: "Hazmat pleted within 90 days of first date Relevant training received from employers must provide training of employment. previous employer or source to ensure each hazmat employee Seafarers who have taken a maybe used tosatisfy the require­ ... is able to recognize and iden­ hazmat course at the Paul Hall ments, provided a current record tify hazardous materials . . . and Center already are considered of training is obtained from a hazhas knowledge of emergency certified for the basic training mat employee's previous response information, self- portion of the new rule. This is employer." protection measures and accident another example of how the Additionally, employees must prevention methods and proce­ Seafarers Harry Lundeberg recertify at least once every two Seafarer demonstrates proper use of breathing gear during hazmat dures." School of Seamanship at the Paul years. The training records must raining at the Lundeberg School. In essence, the rule requires ^all Center continues to meet the contain the employee's name, completion date of most recent The longer course instructs a number of specialized hazmat training, course materials (copy, students on how to coordinate and courses for SlU-contracted com­ description or location), name and run a hazmat containment and panies. The courses meet all legal address of the hazmat trainer, and cleanup. requirements and also are certification that the employee has Among the other available designed with special considera­ been trained and tested. courses is the 40-hour Hazardous tion for the unique settings and The regulation applies to each Waste Operations and Emergen­ circumstances of each company's domestic and foreign vessel when cy Response (Hazwoper), which employees. carrying hazmat in a U.S. port or eatures intensive hands-on train­ An example of a specially in navigable waters of the United ing as well as written exams. designed course is the recent 8States. Topics include legal overviews of hour introductory class which Thorough Training Dccupational Health and Safety was provided for Express Marine Administration standards and employees. The Lundeberg School al­ Coast Guard regulations; basic Other hazmat courses taught at ready has a comprehensive haz­ chemistry of hazardous materials; the school—all of which meet or mat curriculum, with courses ranging from an 8-hour Health use and care of different safety exceed Coast Guard and Occupa­ and Safety/"First Responder" to and breathing equipment; emer­ tional Safety and Health Ad­ the 48-hour "Incident Com­ gency first aid; sampling techni­ ministration Standards—include ques; emergency response plans; 40-hour Oil Spill Emergency mander." The 8-hour course primarily decontamination; and many other Containment and Cleanup; 24The SlU offers a number of hazmat courses at the Paul Hall Center covers identification of hazard­ subjects. hour Health and Safety for Haz­ for Maritime Training and Education. Pictured here are students taking ous materials, use of protective During the last several years, ardous Waste Operations and the oil spill and containment course. gear and procedures for contacting instructors such as Jim Shaffer Emergency Response; and 16emergency response personnel. and Casey Taylor have conducted hour Benzene Safety. Help Locate This Missing Child The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children has asked the Seafarers International Union to assist them in locating Christina Michelle Suttle. Christina Michelie Suttle I J Missing since February 28, 1993, the 15-year-old ran away from home in Batavia, Ohio. She may be in the company of her boyfriend and is con­ sidered an endangered runaway. The brown-haired, blueeyed girl is 5 feet 6 inches tall and weighs 120 pounds. She has a pockmark on her right cheek. Anyone having information on the whereabouts of Chris­ tina Michelle Suttle should contact the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children at (800) 843-5678 or the Miss­ ing Persons Unit of the Cler­ mont (Ohio) County SherifFs Office at (513) 732-2231. f Lundeberg School instructor Casey Taylor conducts a specialized hazmat course recently for employees of Express Marine. J.:/-/' •// / ••• /. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 1990-1999 Description An account of the resource Volumes LII-LXI Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993; Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource October 1993 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES MARITIME STUDY COMMISSION BACKED BY CONGRESSIONAL SUBCOMMITTEE GORE REPORT CALLS FOR MARINE REVIEW OIL SPILL SHIP CREW VOTE FOR SEAFARERS FOREIGN SHIPPING INTERESTS UNMASKED PRO U.S.-FLAG GROUP TO FIGHT ATTACKS ON AMERICAN SHIP TRADES SIU CALLS ON CONGRESS TO CLOSE INLAND SAFETY LOOPHOLES HERBERGER SWORN IN AS MARITIME HEAD SEAFARERS RATIFY NEW THREE-YEAR CONTRACT FOR LNG VESSELS ORGULF BOATMENT ENDORSE PACT FOR WORK ALONG MISSISSIPPI RIVER TRADE COUNCILL CONTINUES EFFORTS TO ORGANIZE AVONDALE SHIPYARD AFL-CIO INTENSIFIES BATTLE TO NIX TRADE DEAL CLINTON INTRODUCES NATIONAL HEALTH CARE REFORM PLAN FORMER VP LINDSEY WILLIAMS DIES OF HEART DISEASE AT 79 COAST GUARD ISSUES NEW DRUG TEST RULES ‘SELF-UNLOADER’ STILL NEEDS SEAFARERS’ SKILLS ON SAM LAUD BUNKER WORK PICKS UP FOR CROWLEY SEAFARERS FOREIGN SHIPPING INTERESTS UNMASKED SEAFARERS BEGIN OPERATIONS ON TWIN-HULLED SURVEY VESSEL USNS BARTLETT TURNED OVER TO MOROCCAN NAVY MEMBERSHIP RATIFIES STANDARD AGREEMENT STEEL SHIPS AND IRON MEN: PART V RETIRED MEMBER SALVO REMAINS ACTIVE NAFTA’S DANGERS RAISED BY UNIONS CLINTON OFFERS PLAN TO CONGRESS; AFL-CIO BACKS BASICS OF PROPOSAL LUNDEBERG SCHOOL CONTINUES TO TRAIN SEAFARERS IN HAZARDOUS MATERIAL OPERATIONS AND HANDLING Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 10/01/1993 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 55, No. 10 1993 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/c6236e8929d6504bb90c6f813b740458.PDF 51e61cab176aad11797f4a3ddfa1297a PDF Text Text STANDARD FREIGHTSHlP/> between •s'l,'; ,. '_/y--i, ••'.,' Ray McKay, who passed away August 9, is shown speaking at the dedication of the Paul Hail Center for Maritime Training and Education in 1991. Atlantic, - The SlU has negotiated a new three-year standard contract with the shipowners group, the American Maritime Association, that will be presented for approval to SlU members this month • Paged '-^i.-^.^-;.,'-.'-.:; •:•^'•• r-' pi. Ray McKay, AMO Head, Dies at 68 'M. 1993 STANDARD TANKER AGREEMENT bclwecii WON Lakes and Inland Waters District. AFL-CIO and Contracted Companies Raymond T. McKay, president of AMO-Dlstrict 2 MEBA, who guided his organization to a position of strength in the U.S. maritime industry, passed away August 9. A forward-looking trade unionist, McKay had a long and close working relationship with the SlU going back more than 40 years. ' l3' .- • •• • .. • . . •. ; ..-r - \ • Paged /• '.i: Hefr >'irv^ •J," • / -p- v • • -. �2 S2AFARERSL0G SEPTEMBER 1993 President's Report Senate Panel Told That Re-Hagging Will Cost Nation Mere Than Dollars Our 'Economic and Strategic Future' ' tf. YA-..V-. • '•'• V •!,..?« li;^' .'.V A Senate subcommittee heard testimony from maritime labor Representing more than 80 trade unions made up of more and shipping representatives as than 14 million members, the AFL-CIO serves as the voice of well as a fellow senator that im­ working people in the United States. The mediate attention from the Clin­ AFL-CIO has long held that a strong, viable ton administration is needed to U.S.-fleet is a good thing for America's keep the U.S. flag flying on coneconomic and security interests and as such tainerships belonging to Seais a good thing for American workers. Land and American President So when the AFL-CIO Executive Council met last month in Chicago, it issued a state­ Lines (APL)., The Senate Merchant Marine ment on the subject of the future of U.S. Subcommittee called the August shipping that did not mince words. "The 5 hearing after the two SlU-conU.S. government appears to be on the verge tracted companies filed applica­ Michael Sacco of dismantling what remains of the tions during the summer with the American merchant marine," opened the From left, listening to testimony during the hearing are Sens. Trent Maritime Administration statement adopted by the full council, Lott (R-Mlss.) and John Breaux (D-La.). (MarAd) to transfer 20 vessels "Maritime policy is in chaos," the statement charged. (13 from Sea-Land and- seven The AFL-(CIO statement, adopted unanimously by the coun- from APL) to a foreign-flag The uniort president continued commercial fleet and only hope cil which is made up of 33 international union presidents and registry. The two companies had by saying such a re-flagging that ships will somehow appear in the AFL-CIO's president and secretary-treasurer, urged Con­ been threatening to make such a move could not be viewed as just a national emergency," Breaux gress and the Clinton administration to choose a course "that move since early 1992 unless a a private business decision. "It is added. will not only preserve but rebuild a strong maritime industry national maritime policy was The senator acknowledged the very much the business of the that is so essential to the nation's economic and strategic fu­ enacted. administration's attempts to public, and bad business at that." ture." Appearing as the first witness. reduce the national debt. "While Joining Sacco at the witness Moreover AFL-CIO support for the American merchant I appreciate Senator Barbara Mikulski (Dthe fiscal restraints table were Timothy Brown, presi­ marine casts a different light on the issue. The labor federation Md.) began the attacks on the dent of the International Or­ we are operating under, the cost speaks for working Americans, no matter their occupation— American companies' registering ganization of Masters, Mates and of saving this vital industry is teachers, construction workers, actors and actresses, health care their vessels offshore. "I am ap­ Pilots; Gordon Ward, president of negligible. The cost of not saving employees, workers in manufacturing and mining, among palled at the idea of our leading District No. 1 PCD Marine En­ it, on the other hand, is tremen­ others. When the AFL-CIO says America must have a mer­ shipping companies re-flagging gineers Beneficial Association; dous," Breaux said. chant fleet, it is speaking for millions of Americans who have under a foreign flag," Mikulsia When industry officials were and Jerome Joseph, executive no direct connection with the maritime industry. But those told the panel. "I am, frankly, ap­ asked by the subcommittee why vice president of the American Americans do have a stake in an America that is not dependent prehensive at the idea that the they were seeking to re-flag their Maritime Officers, District 2for her strategic interests on uncertain allies. Those Americms next time our country is called to ships, John Snow, chairman and MEBA. do have a stake in an America that has a U.S.-flag presence in war, we will be dependent upon chief executive officer of Seainternational shipping trades, thereby ensuring the nation's Merchant Fleet Needed some other country's goodwill to Land's parent company CSX, economic security. In opening the hearing. carry our troops and our weapons respond^ "We have no incen­ The AFL-CIO recognizes the essentiality of a U.S.-flag fleet Senator John Breaux (D-La.), die to the nation's interests. It is high time those entrusted with the to the conflict." subcommittee chairman, noted tive under the current system to 'Wake-Up Cair nation's public policy do the same. Insofar as the Seafarers is that "every flag officer that I have invest in the U.S.-flag fleet. We The senator stated she wanted spoken to over the past 20 years don't want to re-flag, but we have concerned, we will be doing everything within our power to "to send a wake-up call to the has acknowledged the impor­ no option with our responsibility make sure that policy-makers at all levels recognize that the president, the secretary of tance of the U.S.-flag commercial to shareholders to take the actions world's largest trading nation is only an independent superdefense and the secretary of fleet to our security. And I con­ we are proposing." >ower as long as the Stars and Stripes is firmly planted on the transportation. I do not believe we tinue to hear that from the people lighseas. American Crews 'Better' can afford to let this vital industry responsible for fighting the wars. Breaux asked Snow what as­ sail off into the sunset." "It's the 'white collared policy surance Americans will have that The Loss of Ray McKay She called on the administra­ gurus' that don't think we need a foreign crews will sail into war We in the SIU are going to miss Ray McKay, a man with tion to offer a plan that would zones with supplies for the U.S. whom Seafarers enjoyed an intimate trade union relationship ensure a U.S.-flag reserve fleet armed forces. for decades. Brother McKay's death last month is a severe or military purposes, provide dif"The only honest answer is blow for everyone who cares about the American merchant erential payments for U.S.-flag there is no absolute assurance," marine—seamen and shipowners alike. He was a man who shipping companies to compen­ Snow said. never gave up on the U.S. merchant marine. His union's for­ sate for milita^ reserve functions The subcommittee chairman ward looking training program is testimony to his determina­ and protect the jobs of thousands then asked if American merchant tion to keep the U.S. flag on the high seas. of American merchant mariners. mariners "are better than those He was a man who never accepted defeat. He always "Everyone is talking about Representing the Clinton ad­ you will use from foreign planned for tomorrow. Brother McKay was a wonderful guy to reinventing government and I ministration tiefore the subcom­ countries." be fighting alongside of. think it might be time to reinvent mittee Is Joan YIm, the acting It will be a long time—if ever—that we see his likes come the merchant marine," Mikulski maritime administrator. Continued on pt^e 8 our way again. But we can be comforted by the satisfaction of told the panel. "We need to be having known and worked with him—that he was one of ours. able to have the flexibility to be He leaves a solid legacy and great memories for those of us able to respond around the world, who had the advantage of comradeship with him. We will al­ even if it's for peacekeeping, for ways respect his memory. delivery of humanitarian help and any number of other things." MSC Head Inspects Union's Training Facility Costs to Country Mount She was joined in opposition to the re-flagging effort by SIU President Michael Sacco. He pointed out the cost to the country if the 20 ships are re-flagged. "The result will be hundreds of jobs that will be lost, a major reduction in our nation's strategic sealift capability, a reduced Sen. Barbara Mikulski (D-Md.) praises the U.S. merchant marine's American presence in ports efforts In recent military conflicts. around the world, a loss of tax revenues and a worsening of our September 1993 foreign trade deficit," Sacco told Volume 55. Number 9 the subcommittee. "Maritime assets are more The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 0160-2047) is published than just a collection of ships. monthly by the Seafarers Intemational Union; Atlantic, They are also people—highly Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District; AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, Md. 20746. Telephone (301) skilled people, adept at the spe­ cialized nature of their craft, who 899-0675. Second-class postage paid at MSC Prince Georges, Md. 20790-9998 and at additional mailing by virtue of their citizenship and offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the professional conunitment offer Seafarers LOG. 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, Md. unquestioned loyalty to their 20746. F F 6 country. "Certainly the military views Communications Department Director and Editor, Jes­ Vice Admiral Michael Kalleres, head of the Military Seallft Com­ its crewmembers as an integral sica Smith; Managing Editor, Daniel Duncan; Associate mand, meets an englneroom upgrader during his visit to the Paul Editors, Jordan Biscardo and Corrina Christensen; As­ component of itsoverall strength. Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education on July 23. sociate Editor/Production, Deborah A Hirtes; Art, BiU Kalleres also toured the union's manpower facility andshipfiandling So too should ship operators," Brower. simulator, as well as talked with Seafarers during his visit. Sacco stated. fii �'WB' ;'^^ V.. SEPTEMBER 1993 SEAFARERSLOG 3 3-Year Standard Pact Announced Gains in WageSy Out-Patient Care; Pensions Uncapped •Mm A new three-year standard tions which was brought about by by boarding union officials to health care coverage and other payments are based on the freightship and tanker contract the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 SIU members on ships calling at benefits available to Seafarers Department of Labor Bureau of embodying beneficial gains in (CPA '90). The new contract U.S. ports. and their families. Labor Statistics Consumer Price wages, pensions and medical calls for an extensive training cur­ All the recommendations from Index (CPI) which tracks infla­ Extended Negotiations benefits as well as certain work riculum for Seafarers who sail on tion in the American economy. While the previous standard these venues were compiled and rule changes has been negotiated tankers. The COLA payment goes into crafted into a bargaining position by the Seafarers International In addition to changes brought labor agreement with the for the union as negotiations effect if the CPI rises above 5 Union, Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and about by regulatory concerns, the American Maritime Association began last spring. percent by a full percentage point. Inland Waters District. union and the company addressed for both tankers and freightships Fractions betvyeen 5 and 6 percent Wage increases: 3-4-4 The agreement, reached last shipboard work procedures in an expired June 15,1993, the terms can be carried to the next year. of that contract were extended The pact raises base wages 3 The cost of living adjustment month with deep sea operators in effort to build in flexibility while the management group known as maintaining strict safety prac­ through the middle of August by percent effective July 1, 1993. A measured by full percentage agreement of both negotiating 4 percent increase begins on July the American Maritime Associa­ tices. points will be added to the base parties. The contract talks, which 1, 1994 and another 4 percent tion, calls for a cumulative base wage, premium overtime and offThe work rule changes in the wage increase of 11 percent over new contract increase the ver­ began in the spring, thus extended raise kicks in on July 1,1995. The watch penalty rates. 1993 raise is retroactive to July 1 the next three years and extends satility and skills of Seafarers and into the summer. Criteria for Registering out-patient medical benefits to encourage shipowners to have Increased Pensions which allows Seafarers who have In conjunction with the new sailed on vessels covered by the the dependents of Seafarers. routine maintenance take place Possible standard agreement to apply for contract, the union's shipping The new contract allows the while the vessel is under navigation See page 4 the wage increase back to that rules have been amended to ^ow board of trustees of the Seafarers or in operation at a port instead of a Seafarer to register for shipping Pension Plan to lift the $1,000 per having it done in a shipyard. In preparing for the negotia­ date. at any union hall without present­ The penalty on-watch rate will month maximum limit, paving tions, the union carefully ing a drug test certificate or a ben­ Membership Contract Vote the way for higher pensions for reviewed the contract reconunen- go up 3 percent in the first year of The entire contract package dations made by Seafarers in the contract, effective July 1, zene-test certificate. This will Seafarers who retire in the future and who meet the eligibility re­ will be presented to Seafarers for minutes of shipboard union meet­ 1993. All other Overtime and allow a Seafarer to register approval during union meetings ings, in minutes of monthly mem­ penalty rates will remain the same without having to wait out the quirements of the program. period of time between taking the Under the pact—which covers held on Tuesday, September 7, bership meetings at the varioiis for the life of the contract. tests and obtaining the results and the period of June 16, 1993 to 1993. On this day, the pact will be halls, in communications to the Vacation time remains at cur­ June 15, 1996—the manning presented at the regularly contracts department and in ses­ rent levels, but Seafarers will see clearances. However, the Seafarer will be levels currently in force are scheduled headquarters meeting sions with Seafarers attending higher vacation pay as it is in­ responsible for having proof that at Piney Point, Md. which begins retained. classes to upgrade their skills at dexed to base wages which are Negotiators for the union and at 10:30 a.m. At 1:00 p.m. on the the Lundeberg School. upped under the new agreement. he or she has passed the drug same day, special meetings on the the companies also addressed is­ Included in the pact is a cost- screening and benzene testing at The union also culled the sug­ sues that have come up as a result contract will be concurrently held gestions raised in a series of con­ of-living-adjustment (COLA) the time the job is called and the Seafarer throws in for the work. of the sweeping regulatory at every union hall. ferences held in 1991 sponsored provision for the second and third The pact will also be presented by the Seafarers Plans on the years of the agreement. COLA regime governing tanker opera­ Continued on page 6 /I..;' . •if ft . Meditml Coverage Extended Per Dependents of Seafarers The spouses and children of Seafarers who are employed by shipping companies that are signators to the SIU's standard con­ tract are eligible for a wide range of out-patient benefits as a result of the new three-year pact negotiated by the union. During this round of contract deliberations, the union was determined to secure out-patient coverage for dependents because the membership had sent a strong and clear message of interest in this benefit through communica­ tions to SIU headquarters and Under the New Medical V^fcii?baJ:vy'A•, •;. .-;•. t ^v''4-^V.*'r.-'^ •' The benefit of having dependent out-patient care covered for a large part by the Seafarers Welfare piem can be seen in tire following examples: Bosun Joe Smith's wife, Sally, feels sick and has a fever, chest pains and a rash. She oes to the doctor. The doctor examines her, orders a chest x-ray, a Blood test and other lab work Including a culture of the affected area of skin. The doctor gives Sally a prescription, tells her he will call her and to make an appointment In two weeks to ensure she is completely recovered. In two Weeks, Sally jreturhe to the doctor, he examines her and pronounces her reooveiWd. Here is a breakdown of what would have been covered by the Seafarers Wei^e Plan prior to this contract and what Is paid now. ^rvice Cost Covered BySWP in Past Covered BySWP Now* 1st doctor visit $65.00 $0 $52.00 X-ray $25.00 $0 $20.00 Blood test, iab work $50.00 $0 $40.00 Prescription $10.00 $0 $0.00 2nd doctor visit $65.00 $0 $52.00 * The Seafarers Welfare Plan will cover out-patient dependent medical care at a level of 80 percent of reasonmsle and customary costs which are determined by the general price for the service. The out-patient dependent benefits are subject to a once-a-year $50 deductible per individual. In this case, if this had been Sally's first claim submitted to the Seafarers Welfare Plan in the year, $50 would have been deducted from the amount listed in this column. recommendations at the Seafarers Plans conferences on benefits. Negotiated through the stand­ ard agreement is an increased contribution on the part of the contracted companies which are signators to the pact to the Sparer plans. As a result of these additional monies, the board of trustees of the Seafarers medical plan, known as the Seafarers Welfare Plan, has voted to put in place a series of out-patient benefits for dependents of Seafarers, subject to all the rules and regulations Chief Cook Diane Brown has a ten-ydar old son. Bill. Bill falls out of a tree and appears to have injured his arm. Diane rushes him to the emergency room where he sees a doctor, has x-rays taken of his arm and is treated for a broken arm. Diane is told to take Bill to their family physician in a month. As Bill's arm is on the mend, he visits the family doctor three times. In two of those visits the doctor orders x-rays. In the third session at the doctor's office, six months after the initial injury, the physician says Bill's arm is fully repaired and he no longer needs to be checked for it. Here is a breakdown of what would have been covered by the Seafarers Welfare Plan prior to this contract and what is paid now. Covered Cost Covered Service BySWP BySWP In Past Now* ER doctor** $100 $100 which govern the program. 'M: m Hospitalization Covered Until this contract, only Seafarers themselves were eligible for out-patient health care services under the benefits provided by the Seafarers Wel­ fare Plan. While dependents of Seafarers have always enjoyed 100 percent of reasonable and customary coverage by the Seafarers medical plan for emer­ gency room and hospital room and board, doctors' office visits and diagnostic services provided on an out-patient basis were not covered by the plan. Dating from June 16,1993, the effective date of the new labor agreement, dependents of Seafarers can receive medical care on an out-patient basis and the Seafarers Welfare Plan will cover a large share of the cost. ii'r • ".'.iV • M ./'SS. •• fi •: ' $100 80 Percent Covered Under the terms of the plan, 80 ER tests** $100 $100 $100 percent of the reasonable and cus­ tomary charges for out-patient $0 1st Dr. visit $50 $40 health care services to dependents of Seafarers will be paid by the 1st Dr. X-rays $100 $0 $80 ' plan subject to a $50 per year deductible for each dependent. 2nd Dr. visit $50 $40 $0 Among the out-patient ser­ $56 2nd Dr. X-rays $70 $0 vices now covered by the Seafarers Welfare Plan for de­ 3rd Dr. visit $ 50 $0 $ 40 pendents of Seafarers are doctors' The Seafarers Welfare Plan will cover out-patient dependent office visits, diagnostic tests con­ medical care at a level of 80 percent of reasonable and customary ducted on an out-patient basis, ined by costs which are determined b\ the general price for the service. The out-patient dependent benefits are subject to a once-a-year $50 pre-natal care and follow-up care deductible per individual. In this case, if this had been Diane's first for a wife of a Seafarer, pediatric claim for Bill, $50 would have been deducted from the amount listed care and routine check-ups of in this column. ••Emergency Room Continued on page 4 •-V-' •;v- • •I ''t • �4 SEPTBUBBt /A99 SBVAREIISLOe Monthly Pension Payment Cap Lifted Active Seafarers who retire after June 16, 1993 may be eligible to receive pensions higher than $1,000 per month as a result of the new standard con­ tract reached with the SIU's con­ tracted deep sea operators. In the past, the monthly pen­ sion was capped at $1,000 per month. The lifting of the maximum ceiling is made possible through higher contributions brought about in the new pact to the Seafarers Plans on the part of its contracted operators. In turn, the board of trustees of the Seafarers Pension Plan is able to amend the program to allow eligible Seafarers to earn more retirement income. In determining if the pension plan can take on increased out­ lays, the Seafarers Pension Plan utilizes the services of an outside actuary, a trained professional who specializes in calculating the funds needed today in order to meet the future obligations of the retirement program. The services of an actuary were employed in calculating the Under the Uncapped Pension Service-Time Formuia The lifting of the $1,000 maximum monthly payment will allow qualifying Seafarers who retired after June 16, 1993 to receive a higher norma/ pension. Here are some examples of what the change in the pension plan benefit means: John Rodriguez is an FOWT who is retiring at the age of 65. He has credit for 8,840 days of service. As a seaman who has reached the age of 65 with 5,475 days of seatime, John is eligible for the basic pension of $600 per month. But because the plan allows for $15 more a month for every 120 days after the 5,475 service time has been met, John is eligible for a larger pension. Also because the plan allows a day-and-a-quarter-day credit for every day of seatime after the first 3,000 days have been met, John is credited with 8,840 days although in actuality he sailed less days than this number indicates. With his 8,840 days of service, John can now receive $1,020 per month. Here are some additional examples of what an eligible Seafarer can earn as a monthly pension using the sen/ice time formula before and after the new pact took the cap off the pension's monthly payment: uncapping of the pension in order to ensure that Seafarers currently on pension and those who will take retirement benefits in the fu­ ture will be protected from having a plan that cannot meet its obligations. The removal of the cap on the monthly pension does not change any of the procedures for apply­ ing for the retirement pay. Addi­ tionally, eligibility requirements, and the rules and regulations governing the plan remain the same. A Seafarer applying for retire­ ment benefits will calculate his or her pension using one of the two formulas allowed by the plan — a wage-based determination or the computation of service time. The Seafarers Pension Plan will help in the figuring of what an eligible Seafarer can receive under either formula. The amount the Seafarer will be awarded is the one that is higher. For those Seafarers retiring after June 16, 1993 and who qualify for a higher than $1,000 a month pension, the joint and sur­ vivors annuity benefit will also be higher than what it would have been prior to the lifting of the cap. (The joint and survivors annuity is an option available to a retiring Seafarer who wishes to have his spouse continue receiving his pension benefits after he dies.) Seafarers planning to retire in the near future are advised to con­ tact the Seafarers Pension Plan for assistance in calculating potential retirement income. Re­ quests can be made through any union hall or by contacting the Seafarers Pension Plan at 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, Md. 20746. Under the Uncapped Pension Wage-Based Formula Bob Lin is a 59-year old QMED. He has 8,760 days of service and in the last ten years of shipping, Bob's average of the highest base wages he earned in any five years in a row comes to $30,000. To determine his wage-based pension. Bob divides his 8,760 days of seatime by 365 and calculates that he has 24 years of service. He then multiplies 24 by 2 to find his percentage credit, which comes to 48 percent. He then takes his average base earnings of $30,000 and multiplies it by 48 percent to find his yearly benefit. It comes to $14,400. By dividing this by 12, Bob arrives at his monthly benefit of $1,200 per month. Under the new system Bob is eligible to receive the $1,200, whereas prior to this contract 'his monthly retirement pay would have been capped at $1,000 per month. Here are some additional examples of what an eligible Seafarer can earn as a monthly pension using the wage-related formula before and after the new pact took the cap off the pension's monthly payment: Allowable Monthly Average Base Percentage Average Base Days of Monthly Benefit Earnings Earnings Credit Service/ Benefit Now Multiplied by Years of Prior to Percentage Service This For Yearly Contract Benefit 5,475 15 years 15x2 = 30 % $35,000 $35,000 X 30% = $10,500 $875.00 $875.00 Actual Days of Seatime Credited Days* Before This After Contract June 16 7,300 20 years 20x2 = 40 % $28,000 $28,000x40% = $11,200 $ 933.33 $933.33 4,980 5,460 6,324 7,668 8,052 8,532 9,012 9,492 5,475 6,075 7,155 8,835 9,315 9,915 10.515 11,115 $600 $675 $810 $1,000 $1,000 $1,000 $1,000 $1,000 8,030 22 years 22x2 = 44% $32,000 $32,000 x 44% = $14,080 $1,000.00 $1,173.33 8,760 24 years 24x2 = 48 % • $39,000 $39,000 X 48% = $18,720 $1,000.00 $1,560 8,760 24 years 24 X 2 = 48% $20,000 $20,000 X 48% = $9,600 $ 800.00 $800 9,125 25 years 25x2 = 50% $30,000 $30,000 X 50% = $15,000 $1,000.00 $1,250 t $600 $675 $810 $1,020 $1,080 $1,155 $1,230 $1,305 *The plan allows credit for 1.25 days of service for every one day of actual seatime after 3,000 days if it took place after June 16,1984. Medical Coverage Extended to Seafarers' Dependents Continued frontpage 3 babies of Seafarers, physicals and vaccinations at any doctor's of­ fice. The new out-patient benefit plan does not extend to prescrip­ tion drugs. A Visit to the Doctor When a spouse or a child of Seafarer visits a physician's of­ fice for a health-care related ser­ vice, the Seafarers Welfare Plan will cover 80 percent of the cost, subject to the annual $50 per year per family member deductible. The deductible is applied the first time a claim is filed for each in­ dividual family member in any given year and will continue to be applied until totaling $50 in any given year. For purposes of coverage under the Seafarers Welfare Plan, a doctor's office visit can be for any of the following purposes—a check-up, a treatment for an ill­ ness, the seeking of a diagnosis, care for an injury, minor surgical procedures, among others. Doctors often are. not sole practitioners, but work from a health care complex such as a clinic or a health maintenance or­ ganization (HMO) or a preferred provider projgram (PPG). The Seafarers medical plan will recognize a doctor's visit at any of these kinds of establishments as covered by the plan. The SIU and the Seafarers Welfare Plan encourage Seafarers and their families to use the designated PPOs of the Seafarers medical program. However, Seafarers and their de­ pendents may seek medical ser­ vice from their own doctors and health care institutions. The Seafarers Welfare Plan has chosen a PPG in each city where an SIU hall is located. These PPGs are first class hospi­ tals and clinics which have be­ come familiair with Seafarers, their families and the peculiarities of the maritime industry. Thus these PPGs are well-equipped to meet the health care needs of Seafarers and their families. (For the name of the PPG in his or her area, a Seafarer can call the local union hall.) Diagnostic Tests Gften, a physician examining a patient will seek the assistance of test results in making a diag­ nosis. A doctor has a wide variety of tests he or she can order. Many of these tests can be done outside of a hospital facility on an out-patient basis. For ex­ ample a doctor's office might take a blood sample and have a laboratory review it or a doctor associated with a PPG may ask that the tests be done at an on-site laboratory. Also covered under the new out-patient benefit program for dependents of Seafarers are diag­ nostic tests. Among these are xrays, sonograms, mammograms, blood tests, cultures, MRIs and scans. Pre-Natal/Well Baby Care The Seafarers Welfare Plan has traditionally paid the first $300 of health care costs as­ sociated with a spouse's mater­ nity in full and thereafter picked up 80 percent of the maternity-re­ lated reasonable and customary expenses. The medical plan also has covered hospitalization costs associated with the newborn's delivery. Now, the plan will also cover the kind of health care associated with the nine months of pregnan­ cy and the costs of regular check­ ups for the infant. The pre-birth health care needs of the mother and unborn child require regular doctor visits and periodic tests. The plan will cover 80 percent of the reasonable and customary costs of pre-natal care for a spouse of a Seafarer (subj^t to the $50 de­ ductible). Following the infant's birth, the Seafarers Welfare Plan will jiay for 80 percent of the reasonable and customary costs of the baby' s follow-up care (sub­ ject to the $50 deductible). Peri­ odic doctor's visits for check-ups ensure the baby is healthy during the critical stages of early growth. Under the new benefits. Seafarer family members can have their annual physicals con­ ducted at the location of their choice. When the physicals are done outside of a designated SIU clinic, the Seafarers Welfare Plan will cover 80 percent of the cost, subject to the $50 per year, per person deductible. Seafarer can first submit his or her claim to his or her medical plaii. Gnce the spouse's health in­ surance plan has processed the claim, it can be submitted to the Seafarers Welfare Plan. In turn, the Seafarers medical plan may then pay the remaining portion of the bill which has not been covered by the spouse's health care plan, or it may provide credit towards the $50 deductible up to the maximum allowed by the plan's rules and regulations. If a child of a Seafarer and a spouse with his or her own medi­ cal coverage is the patient, the health care plan to which the Vaccination/Immunization claim should first be submitted is The fees associated with im­ the one of the parent who has the munization and vaccination ser­ earliest birthday in the year. vices and supplies for all dependents of Seafarers will also National Health Care be picked up in part by the The new standard pact recog­ Seafarers Welfare Plan. Eighty nizes the need for a national percent of the reasonable and cus­ health care policy to make access tomary costs of these services and to medical services fair in this supplies will be provided by the nation and to bring soaring costs Seafarers medical plan, subject to under control. A provision in the the $50 annual deductible per contract states that in the event of family member. a national health care system being enacted by Congress and If Spouse Has Other Plan signed into law by the president, In the case of a household with the union and its contracted two income earners, the spouse of operators will work to ensure that a Seafarer is likely to have health Seafarers and their families con­ care coverage of his or his own. If tinue to receive the high level of this is the case, the spouse of the benefits they currently enjoy. �*>*•" 1993 SEAFMEiaiM 5 AMD President Raymond McKay Dies mm'i -.» <<5 . • ' ll'u . R I' • -Cj* " •; AYMCM)T.MCKAY, was loaded with ammunition. forces with MEBA Local 101 kngitiie president of During the war, he acquirer Under the terms of the merger the American his engineer's license. His first agreement, the BME retained its Maritime Officers voyage as an engineer was cut offshore contracts and had juris­ (AMO) District 2 short when a German submarine diction for the Great Lakes. of the Marine Engineers Benefi- torpedoed his vessel, the SS With the merger effected, cial Association (MEBA) Fairfield City, off the coast of McKay became an officer of passed away in a Miami hospital Florida. National MEBA. He continuec on August 9 due to heart failure. to serve as an officer of National Rises Up the Ranks He was 68 years old. McKay MEBA until his death. After the war, McKay joined had served since 1957 as the As an officer of National the Brotherhood of Marine En­ MEBA, McKay worked with president of the union. In his tenure as head of the gineers (BME), a licensed en­ the leadership of the other dis­ union, McKay dedicated his ef­ gineer union initiated by two tricts of the union in advancing forts to building a premier union Seafarers International Union the interests of the American of American seagoing officers. officers—Harry Lundeberg and merchant marine and working SIU President Michael Paul Hall. BME became an af­ for government policies tha Sacco, speaking at a memorial filiate of the Seafarers Interna­ provided for a strong U.S.-flag service for McKay remembered tional Union of North America fleet. the AMO president as a fighter, (SIUNA) in 1949. Hall and Lun­ National MEBA President deberg considered the BME a Gordon M. Ward, in a com­ a builder and a friend. "He was a fighter for what he vital alternative to a marine en­ munication to the officers, believed, who could be counted gineer union with pockets of members and staff of McKay's oh no matter how difficult or communist domination. union upon the latter's death, McKay's first position with noted that National MEBA "has daring the cause happened to be," Sacco said at McKay's the BME was as a patrolman. He lost a strong leader and a good funeral mass. "Ray was a then worked for the BME's friend." builder, a contributor who al­ newly-established benefit Dij3trlct2MEBA ways did more than his fair plans. In 1957, McKay was elected In 1960, in a reorganiza|tiid!i share to help make maritime a president of the BME and be­ of MEBA, the former BM^nd better industiy for his member­ came a vice president of the MEBA Local 101 forces be­ ship. Above all, Ray was a true, came District 2 MEBA with From his position as head of the AMO-District 2 MEBA, Ray McKay true friend—that rarest of com- SIUNA. The BME ranks grew McKay as its head. District 2, as worked for a vital U.S.-flag shipping industry. modities in this uncertain adding members from off­ it came to be known, successful­ world." Succeeding McKay as presi­ shore vessels as well as har­ ly organized Great Lakes and and known for its profes­ tween the needs of his member­ dent of AMO is Michael R. bor crafts on the Atlantic, seagoing officers. With the escalation of the sionalism and advanced training ship and the health of the in­ McKay, his son, who had been Pacific and Gulf coasts. Shortly after the 1957 merger Vietnam conflict in the mid- equipment, including its dustry. serving as the union's secretaryOne of those who sat across of the AFL and the CIO, the two 1960s, District 2 and the SIU Simulation Training and Re­ treasurer. search (STAR) Centerfrom McKay at the negotiating labor federations in the United met the need for increased man­ regarded as the world's most table was Gene Rose, president Sailed In WWII States, Hall—then president of power in the sealift surge by The native New Yorker the SIUNA—and McKay creating a joint training program advanced ship simulator sys­ of Bay Tankers whose ships sail began his seafaring career prior entered in behalf of BME into to assist seamen in preparing for tem. (See article on page 14.) with AMO members. As District 2's training pro­ "This is a tragic loss to the to World War H as an un­ merger discussions with the U.S. Coast Guard exams for gram has expanded, it has of­ industry, especially at this very licensed mariner in the en- Marine Engineers Beneficial various licensed and unlicensed fered many Seafarers an critical juncture," Rose said. gineroom. Hours before the Association (MEBA), noting shipboard positions. opportunity to move up the "Ray knew the bottom line, and That program proved to be Japanese surprise attack at Pearl that MEBA was free of any hawsepipe, earning marine the bottom line is jobs. the beginning of District 2's Harbor on December 7, 1941, communist sectors. through the school's "It's also a personal loss, be­ the vessel on which McKay was In 1959, the BME merged training and upgrading pro­ licenses program. cause I respected Ray, admired serving sailed out of the port. It into National MEBA, joining gram, now located in Dania, Fla. him and enjoyed him as a per­ Continued Growth son. District 2 has continued to A Trusted Trade Unionist grow. In 1992, District 2 MEBA McKay also committed his changed its name to American Maritime Officers-District 2 energies to supporting other MEBA, representing the in­ workers in their trade union creased membership growth in struggles and to building federa­ the union within dl areas of tions of maritime unions. In 1990, he chartered the shipboard operations. Greater South Florida Maritime The union, in the past 20 years, has been able to secure Trades Council. As president of new jobs for its members aboard this organization, he was able to commercial and military work with and commit resour­ ces to help fellow trade chartered vessels. As president of the union, unionists in the area. The coun­ McKay gained the respect of cil was very active in assisting management as a tough but trade unionists who had lost AMO has its roots in the Brotherhood of Marine Engineers, chartered as an affiliate of the SIUNA in 1949. responsible negotiator who In this 1959 photo, Ray McKay is swom into office for a second consecutive time. From the left are Gordon struck the necessary balance be­ Continued on page 14 Spencer, McKay, John Regan and W. Gammill while E. Goldsmith administers the oath. ' " • -Av- \ rfA" • i;-A •. •;'-y "0- ''' : -rtl;. r': / / Throughout his career as a rnaritime trade unionist, Ray McKay was Involved in virtually marine labor. Also participating are SIU President Paul Hall (second from left), ILA every ^ue of concern to waterfront workers. In this 20-year-old photo, McKay (second Pr^esident Teddy Gleason (third from left) and Herb Brand (left), who worked closely rom right) joins a meeting to discuss a,maritime-related issue with representatives of with Hall. m ... ^ V ;-. .... ..... ... "'ir �'-'-y ,.v. 6 ; •w-.-w -- r .•4'- -f - •;-fi SEAFARERS LOG SEFTEMBER 1993 recognizes the work of the John whether in the deck, engine, or Hopkins Center for Occupational steward department—is as safe Environmental Health. Tlie pres­ a working environment as possible. The hours, wages and working tigious medical center was con­ conditions set out in the standard tracted by a Seafarers Welfare Plan specially constituted steer­ freightship and tanker agreement ing committee made up of union apply to Seafarers sailing on ships and company representatives to operated by companies who To ensure compliance with the freightship agreement. conduct a detailed study of the belong to the American Maritime Continued from page 3 In light of increasingly strict essential functions that make up Association. CPA '90, the work schedule of An in-depth training program day workers in the deck and en­ security requirements of shipboard work. for all crewmembers who ship on gine departments may be shipyards and port terminals and Application of Pact The center's team of tankers will be put into effect at modi fled or changed. (Not all SlU-contracted com­ the consequent liability issues, physicians and professionals in the union's Lundeberg School of The general rules of the con­ the agreement says that a Seafarer the field of occupational panies are signators to the stand­ Seamanship at the Paul Hall Cen­ tract have been amended to in­ will no longer be used for medicine conducted a year-long ard contract and Seafarers are ter for Maritime Training and clude under customary duties the gangway watch when the vessel advised to consult with the union study in which they interviewed Education in Piney Point, Md. maintenance of vessel equipment is in these locations and that the Seafarers in person and via ques­ hall on the labor agreements as­ and machinery. Although this has company can hire an outside tionnaires and observed first­ sociated with any shipboard job.) Extensive Training The primary company parties A joint committee made up of generally been among the duties security guard in the place of the hand shipboard work. After to the standard freightship agree­ compiling the data, the team union representatives. Seafarers, of Seafarers, it was put in writing gangway watchstander. ment are Sea-Land Service, Inc.; The new pact adds Columbia, determined the essential func­ shipowners and specialists in in this contract to secure this work Waterman; and Puerto Rico tanker regulations will develop for unlicensed crewmembers in Venezuela and Central American tions of work in each of the three Marine - Management, Inc. Sig­ countries to the list of voyages shipboard departments—deck, the curriculum over the coming the future. natory companies to the tanker which require six months of con­ engine and steward. year. Once in place, all Seafarers contract include Maritime Over­ Work Rule Changes shipboard work who wish to ship on tankers must Descriptions of the work rule tinuous onboard seas and OMl. Safety Program on the part of a seaman in order to take the course. changes put into effect by the new A separate labor agreement is In recognition of the It is projected that the tanker pact follow. These provisions en qualify for transportation expen­ dangerous nature of shipboard in effect on American President course will be instituted next courage the np-keep of a ship ses. work and the need for constant Lines and Matson Navigation Other minor modifications year. The union will advise all while it is in operation, thus vigilance in safeguarding life and vessels. This contract is have been made in the area of members through union meetings eliminating the need for limb, the union, the Lundeberg negotiated by the SlU's Pacific and the Seafarers LOG of the shipowner to commit a vessel to work rules and will be available School, the Seafarers Welfare District Unions—made up of the to Seafarers at the membership dates the course will be offered a shipyard for this function. Plan and the contracted com­ Sailors' Union of the Pacific for meetings held on the contract at and the time period by which each Maintenance work in certain panies will work together to the deck department; the Marine Seafarer sailing on a tanker must areas of the house will be per­ the union halls and on the ships. develop a shipboard safety program. 'iremen' s Union representing en­ have evidencfe of having com­ formed at straight time when per­ It will be the goal of the pro­ gine department seamen; and the Tanker Tour of Duty pleted the Lundeberg School formed between the hours of 8:0( Rated positions above entry gram to reduce the incidence of SlU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and tanker course. a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday level will now ship on a tanker for onboard injuries to Seafarers and nland Waters District for through Friday. Chipping, a 16-month period in allotments to ensure that their workplace— steward department Seafarers. Second-Hand Smoke In an effort to make a safer sougeeing, scaling, priming and of four-months-on-two-monthsshipboard environment by not brush painting all quarters, pas­ off. After this period, the job goes subjecting non-smokers to sageways adjacent to all quarters, back to the rotary shipping system. second-hand cigarette smoke, dining areas, lounges, laundries, Base wages increase 3 percent this year retroac­ smoking will only be allowed in the galley, pantries and ship's of­ Emergencies and Permanents The permanent ratings may tive to July 1,4 percent in 1994 and another 4 per­ designated areas. The crew fices will be compensated at cent in 1995 now request an emergency relief lounge ^d crew dining areas will straight time. Seafarers serving as for 30 days without forfeiting be smoke-free areas. Seafarers Welfare Plan will cover 80 percent of If the wheelhouse is a desig­ helmsmen while a vessel is un­ their position. the cost of out-patient health care services for de­ The transportation expenses nated smoking area, the derway under automatic steerage pendents of Seafarers — including doctors visits, diagnostic tests, pre-natal care, well-baby care, helmsman or quartermaster will can now perform routine main­ incurred with leaving and return­ to the vessel will be the ing vaccinations and immunizations, subject to a $50 tenance on the bridge, bridge be permitted to smoke except responsibility of the Seafarer with annual deductible per individual covered wings and flying bridge. In order while maneuvering. to ensure a safe working environ­ the permanent rating. The Monthly pension cap of $1,000 has been removed, Day Workers ment, such work cannot be done Seafarer taking the relief position opening the door to higher pensions for Seafarers On vessels with at least one on stagings or aloft. Additionally, similarly will be responsible for retiring after June 16,1993 who meet the eligibility bosun/watchstander and five able no mate is allowed to relieve the lis or her own transportation ex­ requirements and who qualify under either the seamen (ABs), the bosun may be helmsman, except in an emergen­ penses. wage-based or service-based formulas a designated day worker and two cy. Permanent ratings have the ABs may be assigned to the job of On watch penalty rate goes up 3 percent retroac­ Wipers and QMEDs may now right to, one 30-day emergency tive to July 1 an AB/deck-maintenance. This assist the 'deck department with relief in a 12-month period. designation of duties is similar to docking and undocking opera­ Permanent ratings who leave Comprehensive tanker training courses to be es­ what has been in place on tankers tions. This work will be compen­ the vessel for medical reasons tablished at Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training for the past three years. sated at straight time if performed will be allowed to return to the and Education The two ABs who become during regular working hours. same ship and position after ob­ converted to day workers will get Overtime pay kicks in after eight taining a fit-for-duty status as Proof of drug screening and benzene certificate to the corresponding increase in hours on any calendar day and on ong as he or she has not been off be shown at the time of shipping instead of when registering wages. In the case of a Green weekends and holidays. the vessel for more than 120days. Ticket AB this could be near $200 Day worker QMEDs can now Shipboard safety program will be developed Federal Regulations a month in base pay; for a Blue chip, paint and sougee for up to The contract has been Ticket AB the additional money three hours per day during normal Vacation time remains at current levels, but could reach $350 per month base working hours. This change amended to reflect changes Seafarers will realize greater vacation pay be­ paybrings the tanker pact in sync with brought about by regulations is­ cause it is indexed to increased base wages sued by the U.S. Coast Guard on drug testing and the law enacted Cost-of-living-ad]ustment provision for second and by Congress last year known as third years of the agreement the Americans with Disabilities Act Seafarers can vote on the entire contract package at SlU The term "disabled" has been Provision in the new contract states that in the meetings scheduled for Tuesday, September 7,1993. event that a national health care plan is enacted, removed from the contract. The the union and its contracted operators will work to The agreement will be presented at the regularly no-discrimination language of the ensure that Seafarers and their families continue scheduled headquarters meeting at Piney Point, Md., pact now states that shipboard receiving the high level of benefits they currently which begins at 10:30 a.m. employees cannot be dis­ enjoy At 1 p.m. that same day, special meetings on the contract criminated against on the basis of physical or mental disabilities. It will be concurrently held at every SlU hall. Permanent ratjngs may request 30-day also states that all Seafarers will emergency relief without forfeiting position The pact also will be presented by boarding union officials be qualified to perform their shipto SlU members on ships calling at U.S. ports. Protection from second-hand smoke loard duties. In this regard, the new pact 3-Year Pact Reached, Retroactive to June 16 Contract Highlights Contract Vote on Sept 7 . ' A �: --'V- •."; '•*• r - •• • • • •: .'r ;-..^ ^ . ^ --.i'm- ••: -ij.-", • • • >•>;:- y -- SEPTEMBER1993 SEAFARERS LOG 7 Inland Shipping Resumes en the Mississippi River Barges Md riverboats are sail­ ing the upper Mississippi River after two months of layup created hy record-breaking floods along the river and its tributaries. The high waters affected riverhome operations in nine midwestern states. News reports have estimated the loss to barge com)anies at between $3 and $4 milion a day. The opening of the Mississippi followed towboat test mns con­ ducted by the U.S. Coast Guard. As a result of the test tows, the Mississippi River reopened in mid-August with some restric­ tions from Minneapolis to Cairo, lU. During the worst of the flood­ ing, most of the navigable rivers Alton Belle deck department members rinse off the mud left behind in the midwest north of Cairo by the flood waters. The bridge leading to the Belle has since been were closed and thousands of bar­ taken down, and normal operations of the riverboat have resumed. ges were tied up riding out the smaller loads being allowed on usual routes on the Mississippi flood. Both the Missouri River and the Missiouri and Illinois rivers. River. Normal operations for the SlU-contracted company would the Illinois River opened later in have 16 or 17 tugs .§ailing. The Tugboats Underway August for slow, restricted traffic company plans to get more boats Seafarers are sailing on 14 Oronly. The maximum tow size was underway as river conditions gulf boats that have resumed their 15 barges on the Mississippi, with warrant. Steamboats Shift Routes The, SlU-contracted Delta Queen Steamboat Company con­ tinued operations on the lower Mississippi River and other tributaries despite flooding on the upper sections of the river. The company adjusted the itineraries of the Delta Queen and Mississippi Queen so that the steamboats could keep sailing down the rivers. The St. Louis to St. Paul, Minn, cruises on the upper Mississippi were rerouted to the Ohio or other heartland Happy to be back aboard the Orgulf tug Omegaare Cook Betty Adams rivers. The Mississippi Queen was and Lead Deckhand David Rice. diverted to the Tennessee River valley, sailing from Chattanooga, Tenn. on the Tennessee River to Memphis, Tenn. on the lower Mississippi. With a Memphis to Cincinnati departure in late August, the steamboat began series of Ohio River cruises. The Delta Queen also cruisec through Tennessee with the main ports being Chattanooga and Nashville on the Cumberland River. The company announced that the Delta Queen still plans to dock in St. Louis in late Septem­ ber. "The only thing that Will keep us from being docked on the St. Louis riverfront on September 20 is if the river is still so high that we can't get our steamboat stacks under the bridges," a company spokesperson stated. Deckhand James Tomczak and Cook Betty Gibson report to work aboard the Jim Ludwig when the Orgulf tug resumed regular opera­ tions on the Mississippi River. Riverboat Resumes Cruises The Alton Belle Riverboat Casino has resumed its regular cruise schedule up the Mississipissippi River. During" the flood, the Belle continued operations while at dockside using a bridge to safe­ ly carry passengers over the flood waters to the Alton Landing. The ramp has been disassembled and operations are back to normal. While the Mississippi is still well above flood stage, the water has receded back into its banks. Seafarers who work in the deck department have been busy clean­ ing the Belle and the surrounding areas. There is tons of mud and sludge that we have been working to clean up for the last few weeks. It ranges from six inches to up to two feet deep. We have success­ fully cleaned the promenade and the ramps but there is still a lot of sludge in places like the parking lot," deck department member Lonnle Partridge told a reporter from the Seafarers LOG. Partridge and other deck department members have been cleaning the Alton Belle and Landing using three-foot pumps and two-foot fire hoses. I think the smell is the worst part of our clean-up efforts. At times it is unbearable," Partridge added. With the reopening of the Mis­ sissippi and the area bridges. Belle business is steadily climb­ ing. The first weekend the river)oat resumed sailing operations there were more than 1,200 guests on board for several cruises. That is only 200 short of the vessel's 1,400-person capacity. Seafarers Return to River Boatmen Keep Sharp Watch for Changing Conditions SIU boatmen once again are moving cargo and passengers along the upper Mississippi River after the waterway and several of its tributaries were closed for nearly two months because of flooding. "Everybody is happy to be moving again," stated Captain Ralph Hawkins from the bridge of the Alton Belle Riverboat Casino in Alton, 111. Although flood waters kept the vessel tied to the Alton Land­ ing for weeks, the casino still was open for business with crewmembers reporting for work. The situation was not the same aboard SlU-contracted Orgulf tugboats. Summer normally is the busiest time of year for the com­ pany. As many as 17 of the Cin­ cinnati-based company's 21 boats would be sailing on the in­ land waterways. At the height of the flooding, Orgulf had tied up Captain Ralph Hawkins of the Alton Belle overlooks a calmer 15 of its vessels. Mississippi River after the floods. 'Good To Be Back' "It's good to be back," noted passed Dubuque, Iowa. "I had Deckhand Greg Camel, who never witness^ anything like this returned to work aboard the Pieter before." The deckhand stated the crew Fanchi in mid-August. The McComb, Miss, resident of the tug, which was pushing a experienced the river just as the full load of 15 barges, had dif­ flooding began in late spring ficulty guiding the vessel through which he compared to seeing it the locks because of the rising waters and increasing currents. return to its banks in August. One attempt took three tries with "We could see pieces of hous­ die full crew called out to help ing and campsites floating past," Camel recalled of the spring catch lines on the stem and head, voyage aboard the tug when it he said. Since returning. Camel described the river as calmer, but still treacherous because of the swift current. The Fanchi was northbound for Minnesota when Camel talked with theSeafarers LOG. "We still have to stop at night because of the conditions," he said. "No one is sure where shallow spots may occur because of silt and top soil that has been washed into the river." Deckhand Adam Shacknai reported similar conditions aboard Orgulf s Ed Renshaw. Crew Taking Precautions "We are using tree lines and houses to see how high the river went," the Memphis resident noted. He added the crew is taking precautions, but the "river ap­ pears to be clean, but muddy." Neither Camel nor Shacknai reported seeing any major debris left in the upper Mississippi. Downriver in Alton, Hawkins resumed piloting the Alton Belle on its six-mile cruises in late August. "There is a little driftwood left in the river and the current is swifL but we're able to sail safe­ ly," he said. Hawkins explained thecurrent normally passes through Alton at one-half mile-per-hour. Present­ ly, he estimate the flow at be­ tween six and six-and-a-half miles-per-hour. The only thing he saw con­ gesting the river was "the barges and tows backed up to go through the locks." The riverboat is ap­ proximately one mile north of the Melvin Price Lock and Dam. Deck Gang Praised As noted earlier, the riverboat remained open for business all through the flooding. Hawkins said the crew of the Alton Belle did "a great job" of the making sure the vessel stayed in sailing condition. "The deck crew would pull driftwood from our temporary bridge (which connected the Alton Belle Landing to dry ground) on the average of six to eight hours each day," Hawkins recalled. "At times, full sized trees would be among the debris. "They would use a john boat and rope to pull everything away. It was somewhat dangerous work, but they took every precau­ tion and we never had any problems. All of us are proud of them." Regarding the riverboat itself, the captain said the current was not strong enough to allow the debris to damage the vessel. Some of it would jam under the Alton Belle, but the crew would take the boat out without pas­ sengers and let the debris drift out. In his 20 years on the Missis­ sippi (18 as a towboat captain and the last two with the Alton Belle), Catching up on papenwork is Hawkins said he never had seen Deckhand Adam Shacknai. • f, —en-----.-—r— the river as wild as it was this summer. "There is no comparing this flood to any other floods I have seen on the river. The Mississippi should be a quarter-mile wide as it passes [Alton]. It was eight miles wide at the flood's height when the Mississippi and Mis­ souri merged." The Mississippi exceeded the Alton's 21-foot flood stage on June 7 and crested at a record 42.7 feet on August 1. •C/: -"'L.'r '•K - :{:• •ti v- �8 SEPTEMBER 1993 SEAFJI8E8SL0G Document Ignites Protest Senate Passes Clinton's Delicit'Cutting Budget Foreign-Flag interests Push Their Agenda Through iiero 'Reinvent GevT Group 'fi ^ ^ • The handiwork of foreign flag interests apparently found its way into Vice President A Gore's National Performance Review (NPR) and has been claimed to be the work of one staff member assigned to the fivemonth-old White House pro­ gram. Ensconced in the document o the NPR, a review process estab­ lished by President Clinton to find ways to make govemmen agencies more efficient, are recommendations that would vir­ tually wipe out U.S. shipping. Entitled "Congress Should Deregulate the U.S. Maritime In­ dustry," the document calls for eliminating any of the existing government programs which ad­ vance a U.S.-flag fleet, clearing the way for control of the U.S. maritime trades by foreign inter­ ests. The Senate in August passed (Under current law, the top tax President Clinton's budget rate of 31 percent applies to reconciliation plan, with Vice single people who earn more President A1 Gore casting the than $53,500 and couples earn­ tie-breaking vote, paving the ing more than $89,150. The way for the plan to become law. new law creates a 36 percent The action followed a similarly tax rate on the $115,000 and $140,000 groups. It also creates close vote in the House. The agreement, hammered a 39.6 percent rate for either out in a House-Senate con­ singles or couples earning more ference, is designed to cut the than $250,000.) budget deficit by $496 billion. The average family will pay The maritime industry less than 10 cents a day in new scored two important victories taxes, all from the increase in with the budget's passing. In its the federal gas tax. original deficit-reduction pack­ Those earning more than age, the House had approved $200,000 (about 1.3 percent of both a 50-cent-a-gallon inland the taxpaying population) will waterways fuel tax and another account for more than 8() per­ tax based on the energy content cent of the new taxes. The bill of fuel, known as British ther­ also raises the top corporate in­ mal units (Btu). But the SIU, come tax rate from 34 percent along with other maritime in­ to 35 percent, retroactive to terests and energy users, lob­ January 1,1993. bied heavily against both Some low-income workers proposals, stating they would will pay less in taxes under the be unfair. The Senate removed due to an expansion of the plan, both ideas from consideration earned income tax credit. For and instead approved a 4.3example, a single parent who cent-a-gallon tax on gasoline. supports two children, is a renter and earns $19,0()0 per Wealthy to Pay Most year, will experience a federal Opponents of the budget tax decrease of almost $600 in plan have claimed that it is little 1994 compared with this year. more than a massive tax hike The plan includes many other which primarily will be changes from current law, in­ shouldered by middle-class cluding increased taxes on some Americans. But in fact, most people's Social Security Americans will see only a nominal change in their federal benefits, several revisions for income taxes. Only single wage people who own small busi­ earners making more than nesses, changes in the alternative $115,000 and couples earning minimum tax, a bigger tax break more than $140,000 will see a for people in Ae r^ estate busi­ jump in their income taxes. ness, and many others. Overhauling L S Maritime Policy industry is a hodgepodge of subsid regulation and taxation that makes a mockery of sensij ble industrial policy. r* CM n f «r«n uan •• hmei Mr* • iliM m Or, (Mc for supporting hodgepodge of subsidies, protectionism and regula-1 tion that are a "mockerv to sensible .industrial poUcyJ' Hollings Fights Back The document's unexplained A White House program to "reinvent govemment" known as the release to the public last month, National Policy Review adopted a report that obviously comes from touched off a storm of protest anti-U.S. merchant marine lobbyists. The work of foreign-flag shipping from the Senate, the independent advocates is apparent in a number of areas, including reports which Federal Maritime Commission surfaced in the press. (PMC) and the maritime industry. Meanwhile, the leaking of the "Whoever is responsible for it has columns of James Bovard, a free­ document seemed to have caused questionable motives, at the very trader associated with ultra-con­ servative, anti-government considerable embarrassment in east." The most striking thing about groups. the administration. the NPR document is that it The PMC, in its rebuttal of the Senator Ernest Hollings (Dmakes no effort to conceal its document, said the cited material S.C.), angered by the implica­ source of information, freely lift­ in the NPR document is "inac­ tions of the document, ing verbatim the work of foreigncurate and incomplete and con­ immediately introduced legisla­ flag lobbyists and proponents. tain wholly incorrect allegations tion that would create a commis­ The majority of the NPR and misrepresentations." sion to review maritime policy. document's citations excerpt the The independent govemment Hollings charged that if the NPR work of three vigorous opponents agency said die document "makes proposals are adopted "there of a strong American fleet of unwarranted assumptions ... and would be nothing left of the U.S. which at least two have been in presents as support for its positions maritime industry." His bill, he the employ of foreign-flag ship­ flimsy and ane^otal evidence of a said, would "ensure that the issue ping interests. highly selective nature." of maritime reform is given fair The NPR document borrows The PMC response said it was consideration." leavily from the work of Allen "disturbing" that an analysis of The Hollings legislation was erguson, an economist who has U.S. shipping would be done "oh swiftly cosporisored by Senators )een urging Congress to undo the basis of hasty, one-sided John Breaux (D-La.), chairman of U.S.-flag slupping since the late analysis, mischaracterizations the Senate Merchant MarineSub­ 1950s. and errors" and the adoption "as committee; John Kerry (DIt also quotes Rob Quartel, a absolute tmths the rejected argu­ Mass.); Barbara Mikulski mouthpiece for foreign-flag inter­ ments of the past." (D-Md.) and Charles Robb (D- ests who while serving as a com­ The r^ommendations of the Va.). missioner with a government NPR will be released officially on 'Absurd on Ks Face' agency, the PMC, attacked U.S. September 7, according to a SIU President Michael Sacco govemment maritime programs. spokeswoman of the vice presi­ called the paper "absurd on its Quartel immediately upon leav­ dent contacted by the Seafarers face," adding, "it so clearly bears ing the PMC went to work for a LOG. Until that time, no working the imprint of forces inimical to foreign-flag shipowner. paper of the administration pro­ Also citi^ by the NPR docu­ gram is a final proposal, she U.S. interests that it cannot be taken seriously." He said ment are statements from the said. Shipyard Workers Approve Representation Seafarers Ed Len, DEU (left), and Dave Dunklin, QMED, hold up a message for Avondale employees as they leave work. Workers at the shipyard voted this summer to go union. Cost of Re-Fiagging Would Re Severa, Panel Told Continued from page 2 "There is no doubt that there is a much, much higher probability of success of being able to be where we're needed and operat­ ing effectively where we need them with U.S. crews," Snow responded. Both Breaux and Senator Trent Lott (R-Miss.), the subcommittee's ranking minority member, expressed their dis­ pleasure that neither Defense Secretary Les Aspin nor Transportation Secretary Pederico Pena appeared before the subcommittee. "We are in a SIU President Michael Sacco tells the Benate panel that re-flagging serious crisis in America's will cost America money, jobs and respect mantime mdustry and this issue // ^ y.y : / deserves the highest attention from our highest officials," Breaux said. Acting Maritime Ad­ ministrator Joan Yim, who repre­ sented the Department of Transportation at the hearing, noted MarAd was awaiting a decision from the White House regarding various options con­ cerning maritime revitalization made by the agency to the president's National Policy Council. (In one of his first acts after being sworn in. President Clinton created the council to review and make recommendations about various government functions and policies. The council is com­ ./ posed of representatives from all departments of the federal govemment.) Breaux asked Yim if Pena had made a specific recommendation to the president. She said what Clinton received was a combined effort written by several members of the council. "Please understand my frustration. No one can tell me what the [maritime revitalization] recommendation was?" he asked of Yim. "That's correct," she answered. When Breaux asked if Pena's own recommendation received any support from the council, she stated she did not know. �r..^ -.«jci<iT -•,. ^:i?.i;-..^v .;i.-. , _ ^.'' 1993 Hasan Rahman enjoyed all aspects of the steward recertlfication training. Here he presents his latest culinary specialty. :-'i SEAFARERS LOG -•. f i Mew RecerUfieil Stewanfo: l^tgiading ls tite Way to Go Reflecting on their careers and on the courses they have taken at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, the 11 Seafarers who last month graduated from the SIU's steward recertification program all emphasized the importance of members continually upgrading their skills. As members who have com­ pleted the highest curriculum avail­ able to Seafarers who sail in the steward department, they spoke from experience. The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship "offers you a way to better your careers and your lives," Francisco Rosich stated at the graduation ceremony, which took place during last month's membership meeting in Piney Point, Md. Like most of the other new recertified stewards, Rosich, 52, has upgraded several times at the Lundeberg School. For 61-year-old Hazel Johnson, however, this was his first time at the school. "I'm glad I Anally got here," said the 32-year member of the SIU. "It was even better than I expected. The new lab is the most modern one I've ever seen, the computer training was fantastic and the instructors are great." Comprehensive Training Johnson, Rosich and their classmates received comprehensive training during the five-week course. They worked in the school's new training facility for stewards, a spacious building which features state-of-the-art galley equipment and classrooms. They earned cer­ tification in CPR, first aid and firefighting. Additionally, they studied and practiced communications skills and learned to use computers for setting and storing menus, requisi­ tions, overtime hours and more. The members also met with rep­ resentatives from every department of the SIU for question-and-answer sessions. For example, they spoke with officials from the union's col­ lective bargaining department, from its governmental affairs department, from the welfare, vaca­ tion, training and pension funds and Rebecca Sleeper Manion is congratulated Gregory Melvin learns the proper use of all the from the Seafarers LOG. They also by her husband, Joseph, and son, Trevor, equipment in the school's modern galley. traveled to SIU headquarters in Camp Springs, Md. and to Capitol Hill, where they spoke with Maritime Trades Department Ex­ ecutive Secretary-Treasurer Frank Pecquex. Finally, they went to Baltimore to tour the SlU-crewed cable ship Global Link. "It's a great course and it definitely enhanced us," said Robert Miller, SO, who joined the union 10 years ago in Hawaii and has upgraded three times. "The in­ The whole course is very good," structors are exceptional and the states Raymond Garcia at the Putting in time on computers, a requirement for completion new lab is excellent." graduation ceremony. of the recertification program, is Francisco Rosich. 9 \ "We learned a lot that we will be able to use when we get back on the ships," observed 45-year-old Roger Linasan. "The computer training was excellent, as was the CPR, first aid and firefighting." Steve Crane, 35, graduated from the Lundeberg School trainee program in 1974 and has upgraded several times. "You always learn something here, even if you come in thinking you already know it all," he said. "This was a terrific course." Reach Any Goal Holding her 2-year-old son, an emotionally charged Rebecca Sleeper Manion delivered several important messages in her remarks at graduation. "My son, Trevor, was here the whole time, and it's good to know that you can do this [training] as a mom," said Manion, who graduated from Piney Point in 1984. "I remember when I was a trainee, I used to look at the [recer­ tified stewards and bosuns] and think, 'I'll never make it that far.' But today I'm telling you that you can reach any goal if you apply yourself." Manion, whose husband traveled from their home in Florida to attend the ceremony, is a past recipient of the SIU Scholarship. She told a reporter for the LOG that she is only a few credits short of earning an associate's degree in business administration, and she plans to finish soon. Regarding the recertification course, she said, "The instructors went that extra mile, and I liked being able to work with top-notch stewards. Also, the lab is exception­ al." Similarly, Robert Castillo, 45, said the lab "marks great progress. This is my fourth time at the school, and I still believe it is the best train­ ing facility in the world." "The whole course is very good," added Raymond Garcia, 36. "It helped refresh our minds about some things as well as teach­ ing us new things we can use on a ship." Undertaidng More Studies For Gregory Meivin, there was no immediate time to celebrate finishing the recertification course. That's because he stayed at the Lun­ deberg School an extra week in order to take the oil spill prevention and cleanup course. "I ride tankers, so it made sense for me take the oil spill course," explained Melvin, 32, who graduated from the entry program at the Lundeberg School in 1980. He said that the recertification course "went very well. People worked together and had good unity." Peter Schmitt, 40, said the course's high points included "the practical work at the lab. This is my fourth time here, and the training was even more comprehensive than I've seen in the past." Another frequent upgrader, 50year-old Hasan Rahman, said he enjoyed all aspects of the training. "I learned a lot, and the instructors were wonderful. There was a lot of dne-on-one training and good inter­ The 11 Seafarers successfully completing the steward recertification program pose with SIU Executive Vice President,Joe Sacco action between the class members following the graduation ceremony. They are (from left) Steve Crane, Peter Schmitt, Hazel Johnson, Robert Miller, Francisco Rosich, and the instructors." Roger Linasan, Raymond Garcia, Hasan Rahman, Gregory Melvin, Sacco, Rebecca Sleeper Manion and Robert Castillo. • " Mk ..r;W ••• ...I • •m-y. • •f- 4 v' "ij" • 'M �smBniBERma iOt^ SEMiaensLOG PPO Provides Heaitii Care Services For New Bedford Area Seafarers The Seafarers Welfare Plan very nice. They treated me Hospital; Honolulu—-Straub has designated another notec wonderfully, and service is so ef­ Hospital; New Orleans—Tulane medical facility as a preferrec ficient. It only took two hours to University Hospital and Medical provided organization (PPO). do everything. That sure beats al Center; New York—^Methodist In June, the SIU contractec the long nights on trains travelin Hospital and Healthmark Incor­ with St. Luke's Hospital in New to the Brooklyn clinic. I know porated Clinic; Baltimore^— Bedford, Mass., minutes from the Seafarers in New Hampshire Johns Hopkins University Center New Bedford union hall. The out Maine and Vermont, and this for Occupational and Environ­ patient clinic began operations in [clinic] will take care of all o: mental Health and Francis Scott New England,"said LeGere, who Key Hospital; Houston—St. The new preferred provider organization is St. Luke's Community late August.. The largest community hospi­ lives approximately 40 miles Joseph Hospital; Philadelphia— Hospital, located only minutes from the union hall in New Bedford. tal in Massachusetts, St. Luke's from New Bedford in Braintree, Methodist Hospital and screens; pulmonary function Kathleen Treadup, an adult nurse Healthmark Incorporated Clinic; has 400 beds and the third busies Mass. practitioner for the St. Luke's Wilmington — Torrance tests; cardiovascular studies, in­ clinic who has been a staff mem­ emergency room in the state. cluding stress testing and EKG; Meeting Members' Needs Memorial Hospital and Immedi­ "We have a very dedicatee ber at the New Bedford hospital The Seafarers Welfare Plan's ate Medical Care Center in San drug tests and much more. staff to work with the members o for 15 years. "Occupational medicine is the SIU. Our doctors are highly designation of St. Luke's Hospi­ Pedro, Calif. "Our hospital has the ability to something that we are all learning qualified ranging from gener^ in­ tal represents the coritinuet St. Luke's is a foil service see Seafarers in a reasonable about. It gives us an opportunity ternists to very sub-specializec progress in preferred provider community hospital which to see a new type of working amount of time and provide them physicians," said Administrative health care for Seafarers. The provides various services: prewith all the services they need in Director of Clinical Specialties welfare plan is contracting with a employment physicals; annual people with good skills. Many of a convenient and efficient man­ the Seafarers haive interesting Services Ellen Banach, who is preferred provider in each of the examinations; diagnostic studies, stories about their travels. I think ner," she added: "We are very cities where an SIU clinic pre­ also the director of the clinic. including X-rays and hearing that this is going to be fon. It's pleased to be doing this with the viously had been located. "Because we are located The PPO program was startec tests; vision and glaucoma nice to see a good group of fit and Seafarers and confident that it within the hospital, we have ac­ healthy people for a change," said will work well." to ensure that SIU members and screenings; blood tests; drug cess to any service a patient may their families continue to obtain need, including the emergency room. We set the system up to get quality medical care and, at the care for patients in a quick and same time, help the welfare plan efficient manner. I feel that we combat perpetually rising health President Clinton this month is industry, with premiums based on couraging cost-effective primary have achieved this primary goal. costs. A preferred provider clinic Seafarers began using the or hospital is simply a medical expected to present to Congress an( average costs of providing medica" and preventivecare to avoid having facility on August 17. The plan facility which agrees to provide the nation his health care reform services in particular geographic treatable illnesses turn into costly determined the out-patient clinic services to Seafarers and their jrogram, some details of which he areas — and with no adjustments emergencies. The Clinton plan ... an individual's past or projectec gives consumers greater choices is able to provide all of the medi­ families at a negotiated reimbur­ ;ave on August 16 in a spirited for health. sement rate. and forces plans to compete for the address to the National Govemors cal services required by • Allowing self-employed people to first time on cost and quality." "With the system we have set Association in Tulsa, Okla. Seafarers, such as fit-for-duty deduct the entire cost of their health In all likelihood. Congress will benefits. The AIT.-CIO long has been a physicals, care for illness and up with the SIU, a member can streamline sessions. Everything not produce reform legislation until treatment of injuries. Clinton also pointed out that leading proponent of a universal "We picked this clinic because the member may need is in one sometime next year. most employers already provide a and fair national system of health area. The entire program has Speaking to the governors, Clin­ it is convenient for our members part of their workers' insurance. He care. While not taking a stand on many advantages," said Banach. ton revealed that under his pro­ who live in the New Bedford and said his plan eventjially will reduce one specific proposal put forward gram, employers who currently do The advantages of using health care costs and thereby leave by any representative of the ad­ the New England area. Before at least a portion of their not provide PPG's include: businesses with "more money ministration or Congress, the this, members had to travel to workers' health insurance would be • Using a facility which is they're going to have to invest in federation of national trade unions New York City for the very ser­ required to do so. "I don't believe also has played a key role in expos­ familiar with Seafarers and creating new jobs." vices that now are being offered anybody should get a free ride in ing the fact that the biggest reason whose staff knows the unique Clinton's program has been by the physicians at St. Luke's," this deal," he stated. for skyrocketing health care costs is needs of the membership and described as a managed competi­ said Dr. Kenneth Miller, medical But he also i.ldirectly responded the enormous number of uninsured their families. tion plan. It requires employers to director for the Seafarers Welfare to critics of the program who have citizens. While those people techni­ • Streamlined claims proce­ offer (and, realistically, requires Plan. "This facility will serve as a asserted that an employer mandate cally do not have health care dures for members and depend­ workers to join) one of several com­ drawing card for members Who cripple some companies, would coverage, their expenses inevitably ents using the facility. prehensive, accountable health live in the region. It is another • Use of these facilities al- jarticularly small businesses. The plans consisting of a limited num­ are passed along to those who do. enhanced membership service jresident said his plan calls for a For example, people without that we can offer our members." ows the welfare plan to monitor ive- to seven-year phase-in period ber of doctors and hospitals. health benefits often do not or can­ claims and make sure the hospital Such a plan would bmit costs SIU members have reacted which he believes will help busi­ through market forces, i.e. com­ not afford to seek treatment for rela­ offers services efficiently and positively to the clinic. One of its nesses and create jobs, without any first visitors was Chief Steward maintains high standards of new taxes. "If you just passed an parison shopping by individuals tively minor conditions. But if the from plans screened by employers condition worsens and the unin­ Bob Haggerty,a resident of New quality and care. employer mandate and did nothing sured person goes to the emergency » When the hospital sees or other intermediaries. Bedford."The clinic is really nice else, there'd be a ton of problems, Among the other reform plans room, the cost for his or her care is and everyone is very friendly. St. many Seafarers and their families Clinton acknowledged. for the U.S. under consideration by passed on to those who have Luke's is so convenient. I used to using the facility, reasonable White House aide Ira Magaziner benefits, in the form of higher travel to Baltimore to have my rates for services can be main­ ater elaborated on the plan, saying policy-makers is a Canadian-style premiums, higher deductibles, etc. medical work done. I'd stay with tained. This allows the welfare that it ultimately would require big system in which a tax-supported (reflecting higher hospital billing to relatives to make the long trip a jlan to use these savings to employers to pay 80 percent of their program run by the government compensate for the cost of indigent little bit more pleasant, but it was jenefit members and their de­ workers' premiums. However, he pays all medical bills. Another proposal is dubbed care). This type of scenario is very inconvenient not to have the pendents. added, the administration probably play or pay" because it requires replayed daily throughout the • Preferred provider or­ proper medical facility around," will limit the payments to 7% to employers to provide a minimum country. the chief steward told a reporter ganization hospitals are among .5% of payroll. herdth insurance plan or pay new Other factors contributing to the he biggest in their cities. from the Seafarers LOG. This cap would apply only to taxes to a government fond to cover high cost of adequate health care To date, the SIU has desig­ arge companies that join regional the uninsured. AB Donald LeGere used to include huge profit margins for nated the following PPOs: Seat- iealth insurance purchasing pools take the midnight train to New Still others advocate a "con­ some drug companies, as well as York City for his annual physical, le—Virginia Mason Hospital; to be created by the Clinton plan. sumer choice" plan, in which the cost of scientific advancements. arriving by 6 a.m. "The clinic is San Francisco—St. Mary's The largest companies, probably citizens would be required to buy One way that unions and the those with at least 5,000 workers, health insurance on their own or health care providers they work may have the option of not joining through employers. Presumably with have tried to combat rising the pools. they would pay with a proposed tax costs is the use of preferred Health premium spending by credit. jrovider organizations (PPOs) and small businesses and low-wage iealth maintenance organizations Regardless of which type of irms would be limited to 4% of HMOs). their payrolls, with subsidies cover­ plan one supports, there seemingly is nationwide agreement that the A PPO is a hospital or clinic ing the difference to provide full U.S. cannot afford to continue on designated as the primary care coverage. Magaziner said the sub­ its current path of skyrocketing giver, subject to a utilization review sidies will come from a $30 billion health care costs and gross underin­ irocess in which permission must to $40 billion pool generated by surance or non-insurance. As le obtained for medical treatment. savings in Medicare, Medicaid and Senator Tom Daschle (D-S.D.) and An HMO provides all of a other federal health programs. Senator J.D. Rockefeller (Dpatient's care for a set annual fee Other elements of the plan W.Va.) said in a recent letter to The and covers little outside its set which Clinton described to the Wall Street Journal: "In today's larameters. (President Clinton's govemors include: Coverage for every U.S. citizen, health care system, the more tests ilan will offer incentives to enroll regardless of their health or and procedures doctors and hospi­ in HMOs.) HMOs generally have employment status. Currently, al­ tals do, the more they get paid. salaried physicians, and their struc­ most 40 million Americans have no Under the Clinton plan, health ture encourages doctors and hospi­ New Bedford union hall secretary Nidia Pereira helps two members coverage. dans would be paid a set amount tals to function as parts of large prepare for their first visit to the clinic at St. Luke's Hospital. Chief • Establishment of a national health Jer enrollee, forcing them to groups. Some of the advantages of Steward Bob Haggerty (center) and Recertified Bosun Robert Carson spending budget. manage health care delivery more using an HMO are low out-of-pocket • A restructuring of the insurance efficiently and effectively, and en­ costs and reduced pap^work. gather the forms necessary for their annual physicals. Clinton To Unveil Health Plan This Month .-r-R':'?'-;. :.'• "f . • ••. •i'- • -•/ '•., '' '• v, ':. -t-r • d;!-" I rI �•i'-tyvy."' .'••« •r--~-';.'f;.;- •4->',ri.>^': v'-i--.-,/ ,!•'••>.. 1993 PAGE 11 Marttrans Seatams Earn Tankeman Endorsemmt Twelve Seafarers who sail and Putro, the other Maritrans aboard Maritrans tugs and barges employees who completed the recently earned their tankerman's course are Rodney Bennett, endorsement after completing a George Davis, Gregory Gibson, specially designed two-week Ray Kucharczyck, David O'­ course at the Paul Hall Center for Neal, Rupert Perry Jr., Dale Maritime Training and Educa­ Watts, Phillip Yeomans and tion. Troy Zimmerman. The course The course lasted from August was taught by Jim Shaffer. 2 to August 13 and consisted of Maritrans operates 35 tugs and all aspects of loading, transfer^ng 45 barges, as well as several oil and unloading the various terminals, on the Eastern goeis carried by tank barges. Seaboard and in the Gulf of Members also studied and prac­ Mexico. The SIU members who ticed diesel engine operation and work for Maritrans have taken repair, with particular emphasis part in several special courses at on safety aspects involved in han­ Piney Point in recent years, which dling fuels and other potentially prompted John Bums, Maritrans' dangerous cargoes. director of labor relations, to note. TTie course was designed to In the last several years, the meet the training needs of vocational staff at the school has Maritrans employees while at the been most helpful in accom­ same time accommodating then- modating us and developing work schedules. training programs which are ex­ OS Mike Morrissey said the tremely beneficial to our Completing a specially designed two-week course leading to a tankerman's endorsement are (from left, class was "very informative." employees. This [tankerman front row) Michael Morrissey, Troy Zimmerman, Ray Kucharczyck, Rupert Perry Jr., David O'Neal, David This .was his second time at the course] is one more example of Lane II, Jim Shaffer (instructor), (second row) George Davis, Dale Watts, Phillip Yeomans. Ed Putro, Rodney Bennett, Allen Shaw and Greg Roanoke. Seafarers Harry Lundeberg that training." School of Seamanship, which he described as "a first-class facility with great instructors. I also like the fact that when you're here, Six Seafarers and five mem­ you're with other Seafarers. Be­ The following Seafarers from sides the classes, that interaction bers of the American Maritime Express Marine completed the Officers (AMO) employed by can be educational." upgrading courses: Pruitt, Foster, Express Marine, Inc. last month Parks, Captains Bobby Lewis The tankerman course also completed upgrading a'nd James Pruitt, and Mate marked the second trip to Piney courses at thespecial Paul Hall Center for Mack Keech. AMO members Point for AB David Lane, who Maritime Training and Educa­ who completed the courses are graduated from the Lundeberg tion. Chief Engineers Louis Hopkins School in 1979 and then briefly The courses, which began on and Thomas Pigott, Second En­ sailed in the deep sea division August 23 and lasted until die end gineers Malvin Pendleton and before switching to conunercial of the month, were structured Robert Judy, and Barge Engineer fishing. Lane, who began work­ with consideration for the work Richard Riddick. ing for Maritrans two years ago, of inland division The instructors are White, described the tankerman course schedules members. Courses covering a Karaczynski, Dan Holden, Jim as "thorough" and said the school wide variety of skills were avail­ Shaffer and Eric Malzkuhn. 'has improved considerably. I able to Seafarers and AMO mem­ Express Marine is based m remember as a trainee staying in bers who sail in the deck, engine Pennsauken, N.J. The company the old bungalows. This time, my and steward departments. (Some operates five tugs and barges wife and three kids were with ine, training, such as oil transfer pro­ which move coal up and down the which made it a nice stay. My cedures, was given simultaneous­ East Coast. kids love it here." ly to members from all three Like Lane, AB Ed Putro departments. However, most of works aboard Maritrans tugs in the curriculum, including lots of the Philadelphia area. "This hands-on work, was departmentcourse covered everything we specific.) need to know," said ^tro, who Stewart Parks, a 57-year-old also has completed AB and ad­ AB/cook who has been an SIU vanced firefighting courses at the member for 13 years, said he school. "It boosted my "learned a lot" from the courses. Bobby Lewis checks the radar screen on the deck of the simulator. knowledge about the boats I work "I think very highly of the whole Parks had not been to praised the Lundeberg School on and around." experience. This was my first theWhile facility in Piney PoinL Md. courses and staff. "I find thecour­ Lane added that he firmly time at the school, and it's even before, several other members ses and the instructors exception­ believes in the value of upgrading better than I expected. I love it, who work for Express Marine at­ al," he said. "They handle at the Lundeberg School. "It helps said Parks, who sails aboard the tended a special firefighting and everything we need, and they are me gain more and more tugboat Escort. hazardous very, very willing to work with us materials training knowledge. The school is readily Parks added that he particular­ in tailoring courses to our specific course last year at the school. One available, and the special courses ly enjoyed working with SIU in­ needs. I've heard nothing but of those members, AB/Cook Hil­ for inland members are great. structor Ed White in the new positive comments from the ton Foster, said he was glad to That's what keeps us coming galley training building at the people who have been there, in­ return to the school last month. Seafarers Harry Lundeberg back." cluding myself, and I hope we can Chief Engineer Thomas Pigott "It's always very worthwhile to In addition to Morrissey, Lane School of Seamanship. come here," said Foster, 37, who make even more use of the school was one of the AMO memt>eFS who completed the course. has been a Seafarer for 14 years. in the future." "All of the facilities are first-rate, and the new galley is fantastic." For 32-year-old Mate Gil Pruitt, who sails aboard the tug Guardian, making the trip to Piney Point is old hat. Pruitt graduated from the trainee pro­ gram in 1979 and has upgraded five times, including twice in the past two years. Pruitt commended the training available on the Lundeberg School's state-of-the-art shiphandling simulator and said he learned a lot from instructor Jake Karaczynski. "This school is getting better eveiy day," Pruitt added. "I've always said Piney Point is ex­ tremely helpfiil if you apply your­ self. It's here if you want it." Stan Latka, marine operations Troy Zimmerman studied diesel engirie operation as part of the manager at Express Marine, Steward Parks (left) and Hilton Foster work in the new galley training • iK • Express Marine Boatmen Complete Special Gourees course, designed to meet the training needs of Maritrans employees. building as part of their upgrading curriculum. '• 'hii. "3 • �• -fr 91 'AI . r.. •f?r 12 SEFTEMBER1993 SEAFARERS LOG Bosun Dubs American Mariner's Historic Grain Voyage 'Fantostic' 'i'm'P: • • ;f'•,>.: .ir; ,.'.' fc/V Ip'C.. i:-:' H-« sides. was entering waters never before Eckley handled the aft wine sailed by any of the ASC fleet. After sailing across Lake Onwith the assistance of a deckhanc during each lock operation. Eac tario, the American Mariner process took 45 minutes to an reached the Thousand Islands in hour to complete which Eckley the St. Lawrence River between said was "faster" than he ex New York and Ontario. pected. "It was beautiful," Eckley The crew of* the American said. "I can honestly say that was Maririerwas notified in mid-June all the crew talked about when we on-Locatkm that it would take part in sailed through it. None of us had luring The American Marinerpasses through a lock in the Well transporting the grain—^part o seen it from a ship before." Its historic cargo preference grain voyage to Montreal. the $1.6 billion aid package From there, the vessel sailed presented in April by Presidem through the St. Lawrence Seaway Clinton to Russian President to Montreal, completing the Boris Yeltsin for the people of his voyage in just under three days, where offloading took ap­ country. The 730-foot vessel normally proximately 30 hours. In less hauls iron ore and coal during the than five hours, the ship was Great Lakes sailing season, so loading ore for the trip back to crewmembers went right to work Lake Erie. to prepare the holds for the grain. The other SIU members who "We would clean the holds as sailed aboard the American we unloaded them," Eckley said. A/ar/ner to Montreal and back in­ We would take every advantage cluded from the deck department we could to get rid of any ruSt or AB/Wheelsmen Kenneth Bluitt, paint chips. It meant extra work Joseph Kelly and Richard for all of us, but it was not a bad Lund; AB/Watchmen David deal to be part of this. Barber, Robert Wagoner and Before the grain could be Jeffrey Stockman; and DeckBosun Robert Eckley said this was loaded, the vessel was inspected lands Edward Martin and by officials from the Department Mohamed Shaihi. the best trip of his life. of Agriculture. "We had no Engineroom members con­ >roblems with the inspection," sisted of Conveyorman Myron The American Mariner be­ the 63-year-old bosun stated. Johnston, Gateman Musid El Reacfy to shift barrels of oil are Wiper Mohsin A. Harhara (left) and QMED came the broadest ship, at 78 feet, Not bad for a crew that carries dodiyi, QMEDs Thomas Tuck­ Kassim S. Abdulla. to successfully navigate the locks ore and coal!" er, Kassim AhduUa and Masood along the Seaway. (Maximum Loading started July 6 at the Igirsh and Wiper Mohsin Harwidth allowed is 76 feet.) Anderson Grain Terminal, with lara. Taking care of business in "We had a foot on either side," the American Mariner setting sail the galley were Second Cook Eckley recalled when he was con­ across Lake Erie on July 8. A^en )awn Weymouth and Porter tacted by the Seafarers LOG. the vessel reached the Welland Mward Ringsred. "We were right up against the Canal around Niagara Falls, it Bosun Robert Eckley proclaimed the historic voyage o the American Mariner through the St. Lawrence Seaway to Montreal "the best trip of my life." The 33-year veteran of theSIU was among the crew of the American Steamship Company (ASC) self-unloader that carriec 21,420 tons of cargo preference grain from, Toledo, Ohio to Montreal where it was transferrec to a U.S.-flag ocean-going freighter bound for St Petersburg, Russia. Piney Point Graduate Saves Life of Mariner The first aid and lifesaving techniques taught at the Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship are important skills which con­ tribute to the safety and wellbeing of Seafarers and the vessels on which they sail. SIU members who perfect these skills at the Lundeberg School never know when they may be called on to put such knowledge into practice. For Wiper Anthony Niekrasz, it was only four months after ^adUating from Piney Point and signing on his first ship, the USNS Silas Bent, that these im­ perative skills came into play. On July 22, Niekrasz and OS Ray Gayton were enjoying time off their ship at a seaman's center in Dubai, when Niekrasz noticed one of the fellow mariners drown­ ing after diving into the swim­ ming pool. "I kne>v there was trouble when he didn't come up out of the water right away. I dove in and brought himto the side and rolled him up out of the pool. He was out for a few seconds and then came to," the wiper told a reporter from the Seafarers LOG. "I remembered everything that I learned in my classes at Piney Point about life saving and reviv­ ing a person who has come close to drowning. I immediately rolled him on his side and he came to quickly, so [additional first aid attention was not needed], would have been prepared though," Niekrasz recalled. The mariner that Niekrasz res­ cued sailed aboard the American Osprey, which was in dry-dock in Dubai. "I didn't know the guy—only that he was a seafarer too and he was in trouble. I had to help him out," the March Piney Point graduate stated. "He was very grateful and happy, and it felt good knowing I played a part in saving another seaman's life. We hung out for a while and mainly he just kept telling me how grate­ ful he was," he added. Brother Niekrasz sailed aboard the Silas Bent until sign­ ing off on July 31. He is planning Wiper Anthony Niekrasz was able to upgrade to fireman, oiler and to put into practice ttie skills he had watertender in the fall classes at earned at the Lundeberg School. the Paul Hall Center. C)omlng upfrom the engineroom Is Caateman MusId 'Art* El Modhji. AS Watchman Jeffrey Stockman keeps an eye on deck operations during a recent voyage on the American Mariner. QMED Masood Elglrsh was an enis Deckhand ywyi^ifeiajw T A /• �:: L::..t:.::..;:^. •:....:i, :- y .• ,- 'i •.'* . .''vV'.:-i"^ SEPTEMBER 1993 SEAFARERS LOG 13 • . v. ,• , V^l '•M- LEFT Ihe American Republic begins Its journey up the Cuyahoga River in Cleveland with a load of ore. ' y '• .•^fv ir- - '••••• I •A • p.: t , > QMED Dave Cameron operates the engine room control board. From the snows of February to the summer sun of August, Seafarers aboard the American Republic have maintained the ship's steady run on Lake Erie during the 1993 shipping season. The 635-foot self-unloader was called into duty a month earlier than normal this year because of a need to transport ore to a steel mill in Trenton, Mich. A mild winter in the region kept the Lakes from freezing over, thus allowing the vessel to complete the mission. Crewmembers reported the additional time on the Lakes has had no effect on them. "So far, it's been a great year," noted AB/Wheelsman Bren­ dan Murphy. "We've kept busy all season," "This crew has done a great job this year," added Bosun Terry Henrietta."This vessel is in constant motion, so we have to stay alert for any problems that would throw off our schedule." Except for special loads, the American Steamship Company vessel keeps a regular run of carrying ore from Lorain, Ohio to Cleveland—a distance of 40 miles. The ship averages a roundtrip every 24 hours depending on weather conditions and river traffic. The Americanwas specially built in 1981 to deliver ore to steel plants along the winding Cuyahoga River in Cleveland. -v:: Overseeing docking operations on deck is Bosun Terry Henrietta. v 'W • •y; ; •M • n ; V • p. •. •if- -i • .-=S" AB/Wheelsman Brendan Murphy handles' dockslde adjustments from the deck control room. On deck to Inspect the conveyor rollers Is Conveyorman Rick Springs. 11 a AB/Watchman Eugene Repko main- Ready to go ashore Is Second Cook tains a presence on deck. Harry Petersen. m '••'A •,S'. •:> • / / :/, Lonn?e"Br(X)ks.'^°"^^'°"QMED Peering at dock activities from the American Republic's port gate Is Wiper Hamid Hizam. Gapske makes his way to shore In the landing chair. /,v:f mi:..' .f : •. - . �it; r,. .-•.' -If c.- ;• r-' U SEPIEMBEG 1993 SEMFARBtS LOG AMO President Ray McKay Passes Away jv . v ? ' '"M fSs. '• "tV-.','.- .' long endure," Bowers noted. McKay, a forward-looking trade unionist and a remarkable strategist, "was a very effective fighter for maritime," said Herb Brand, the chairman of the board of directors of the Transportation Institute, an education and policy organiza­ tion representing American-flag shipping operators. Brand, who previously had been associated with the SIU, Since the BME merged with the MEBA in 1959, Ray McKay senred as an officer in the union's national organization. From the left are knew McKay for more than 40 Jesse Calhoun, retired National MEBA president; McKay, who most years. "He never hesitated to recently served as an executive vice president; and Gordon Ward, participate in any effort National MEBA president. designed to improve the condi­ John Bowers, president of the tion of the industry. Continued from page 5 He served the industry and International Longshoremen's their homes during Hurricane Association, who also serves as his membership very well, and an executive board member of he made a great contribution.' Andrew last year. McKay is survived by his the ITF, worked with McKay in McKay also represented wife of 50 years, Dolly; three an effort to bring the concerns of American seagoing workers at sons — Michael, Thomas and meetings of the International American maritime labor to the Robert; a daughter, Cecilia Ann; Transport Workers Federation world body's attention. McKay, a trade unionist who believed in fisting other workers "His contributions to his a brother; 15 grandchildren and Ray (ITF), the world organization of n their efforts to attain job security, dedicated himself to bulding a independent unions repre­ membership and to all maritime four great-grand children. South Florida-affiliate of the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department, He was buried in Oran- n 1991, he received a charter for the Greater South Florida Maritime senting workers in all sectors of workers in the free world were enormous. His memory will ;eburg, N.Y. Trades Council from MTD (and SIU) President Michael Sacco. transportation. ••• ''• ' - A"J''' . -H'" •"• . "-i • McKay's Legacy Includes School Of Engineering and HarigaUon • Ray McKay, the longtime American Maritime Officers (AMO) District 2 MEBA presi­ dent who passed away on August 9, leaves a legacy of numerous and important con­ tributions to the American mer­ chant marine. One of those contributions, of which McKay was especially proud, is the AMO School of Marine Engineering and Naviga­ tion, which he founded in 1966. The original school was lo­ cated on the fifth floor of the old SIU headquarters building in Brooklyn, N.Y. But within a year, the officers had outgrown the space and moved to a fivestory building next door. In 1967 the school provided sealift training in direct response to America's need for qudified seamen to take part in the Vietnam War. The cur­ riculum subsequently expanded, year after year. In 1982, the union purchased property in Dania, Fla. and relo­ cated the school to a three-story building there. A fourth floor was added two years ago, and the school remains as part of AMO headquarters in Dania. Nowadays, about 40 courses are available at the school, with titles such as Refrigeration, Air Conditioning & Refrigerant Recovery System Training; Maritime Law Training; Radar Certification and Re-Certification; Health and Safety Hazard­ ous Material Spill Response Training; and many others. The newest feature of the school is the Simulation Train­ ing and Research (STAR) Cen­ ter. Conceived and fostered by McKay, the STAR Center opened earlier this year and is regarded as the world's most ad­ vanced ship simulator system. When the STAR Center opened, McKay said, "Shipowners and operators and insurers understand that a high­ ly skilled manpower comple­ ment is what makes a ship safe, efficient and profitable, and that's what STAR Center promises. In remembering McKiay, SIU President Michael Sacco said, "This great school is testimony to lus determination and deep belief in the future of American-flag shipping. He never accepted defeate. He always planned for tomorrow." Using highly advanced, com­ puter-driven graphics, STAR can recreate Ae operation of any vessel under any conditions in all ports and waterways throughout the world. Other features include: • The world's only 360-degreeview training bridge. • A 247-degree-view rotating docking bridge for close maneuvers. • Three navigation radar/ARPA simulators. • Slow-speed and medium-speed diesel engine simulators. • A liquid cargo simulator. • Day and night navigation. • Climate conditions such as wind, currents, fog, rain and snow. • Remote instruction with video and radar monitors. Since the mid-1960s, McKay developed a premier maritime training program now housed in the union's headquarters complex in Dania. • Video playback for review. • Aerial tracking of plotted courses. STAR also has programs available in emergency response drills, restricted visibility piloting, tug-barge operations, coastal piloting and more. The center also may be used for military training such as con­ voy operations and underway replenishment. In many cases, training at the center counts as Coast Guard-certified sea time. For example, in two weeks, a second mate can earn 60 days of sea time toward the position of chief mate. The STAR Center opened earlier this year at the AMO school in Dania, Fla. Conceived and fostered by Ray McKay, the STAR Center has a number of high-tech features. •• ' j' / ' • 'i:; ,,, • vlvig;...;"; ^ '' ' -V- �';V. sEPimmta^ SEAFARBIS LOe Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea October i November 1993 Membership Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, Inland Waters JULY 16 — AUGUST 15,1993 •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Port 31 New York 1 Philadelphia 1 Baltimore 20 Norfolk 14 Mobile New Orleans 33 Jacksonville 27 San Francisco 26 Wilmington 13 17 Seattle 7 Puerto Rico 4 Honolulu 16 Houston 0 St. Louis 0 Piney Point Algonac .. 210 Totals Port 20 New York Philadelphia 6 Baltimore 7 Norfolk 10 Mobile New Orleans 13 Jacksonville 18 San Francisco 12 Wilmington 14 Seattle 7 Puerto Rico 3 Honolulu 11 Houston 0 St. Louis 3 Piney Point 1 Algonac 135 Totals Port 15 New York 1 Philadelphia 2 Baltimore 16 Norfolk 10 Mobile New Orleans 8 Jacksonville San Francisco 33 Wilmington 15 20 Seattle 1 Puerto Rico 12 Honolulu 16 Houston 1 St Louis Piney Point 1 Algonac 160 Totals Port 11 New York 2 Philadelphia 0 Baltimore 10 Norfolk 1 Mobile New Orleans 10 2 Jacksonville 13 San Francisco Wilmington 10 9 Seattle 6 Puerto Rico 7 Honolulu 2 Houston 0 St. Louis 0 Piney Point 0 Algonac 83 Totals 20 11 9 25 25 20 19 17 15 15 2 16 34 2 - - 6 7 1 5 4 10 5 3 7 1 3 15 5 ••• 0 ,0 235 >. 0 72 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C ••REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C Trip RelieEs DECK DEPARTMENT 17 19 11 2 1 9 0 5 3 6 2 1 6 11 3 4 6 2 2 14 21 23 1 2 24 22 10 14 15 u::8'^ 1 14 13 7, 1 12 14 1 7 8 1 0 3 4 12 3 6 15 26 5 4 0 0 0 4 0 0 1 9 . •K-BW'SS i 0 0 0 0 150 193 26 68 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 58 1 4 31 19 43 50 50 30 46 16 8 42 1 1 - J 0 400 38 13 13 40 32 35 39 38 27 48 4 24 45 0 2 '• m 399 11 8 2 7 6 12 9 12 11 9 6 18 14 0 0 7 . 10 13 22 21 14 14 1 12 14 1 15 0 182 1 1 4 0 7 Norfolk Thursday: October 7; Friday, November 12* * changed byVeterans Day holiday Jacksonville Thursday: October 7; Friday, November 12* * changed by Veterans Day holiday Algonac Friday: October 8, November 12 Houston Monday: October 11, November 15 New Orleans' %^ Tuesday: October 12, November 16 Mobile Wednesday, October 13, November 17 San Francisco Thursday: October 14, November 18 Wilmington Monday: October 18, November 22 Seattle Friday, October 22, November 26 San Juan Thursday: October 7; Friday, November 12* •M 125 • 1 wm-s. 1 5 0 8 0 3 0 43 19 5 0 i 3: ...... 0 2 1 0 0 0 0 326 264 50 87 100 24 STEWARD DEPARTMENT "•V''6'; • 19 "t.'- 27 0 1 9 : 3 1 0 2 4 2 4 : 'va),„ mit2 0 7 15 3 1 8 9 11 15 2 6 0 3 16 13 3 0 4 11 11 23 2 W^IO: 28 74 0 24 1 8 25 5 0 4 2, 11 37 : ' 6 1 1 16 1 7 0 0 0 1 37 15 51 10 15 11 5• ^ 20 ':ro'. 6 -^tio; 2 0 0 0 I 3 mi. W.0 4 0 ' ' 0 0 0 0 1 172 282 99 14 58 118 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 76 26 3 22 2 3 2 0 2 2 0 12 1 0 iP 1 4 0 42 11 0 7 6 5 23 0 0 1 7 1 34 12 0 0 11 , 8 > 4 28 0 13 4 50 . 32 0 1 3 7 25 0 :'0^ .• • 3 3 23 0 0 8 8 12 7 0 0 4 1 62 8 0 94 50 5 23 2 0 1 11 ; 3 2 0 0 0 1 0 26 0 0 1 24 0 4 0 0 1 1 0 445 132 0 113 171 47 8 0 10 10 5 7 4 1 9 2 0 3 0 67 * changed by Veterans Day holiday •^€:..,0 38 4 8 28 14 17 12 25 13 9 6 52 9' 1 32 2 270 15 3 2 5 0 7 5 15 6 2 2 96 3 0 2 1 164 •"T-f I- 0 3 0 2 1 2 1 3 2 15 2 0 1 0 34 35 6 2 12 0 19 12 26 13 10 10 129 9 0 1 0 284 Totals All 217 1,078 1342 510 177 522 402 785 300 Departments 588 . Tolal Registered" means Ihe number of men who actually registered for shipping at tfie port last month. •• "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at Re port at the end of last inonft A total of 1J18 lobs were shipped on SlU-contracted deep sea vessels. Of the 1,318 jobs ahip^ 402 jobs or about 30 nercent were taken by "A" seniority members. The rest were Blled by "B" and C semonty people. From July 1« to August 15,1993, a total of 217 trip reHefJote^ie shipped. Since the tnp rehef ^ram began on April 1,1982, a total of 19,332 jobs have been shipped. • ' ./ / . / /• St Louis Friday: October 15, November 19 Honolulu , Friday: October 15, November 19 Duluth Wednesday, October 13, November 17 ; Jersey City - •• s f - Wednesday: October 20, November 24 '^ New Bedford Tuesday: October 19, November 23 : 1 1 3 Wy-O ':•••• 1 1 7 0 5 0 8 2 6 0 ^ 2 • 1 6 1 1 14 22 0 4: : 0 0 \ 8, (S® "'O 0 0 21 98 Piney Point Tuesday: Monday: October 4, November 8 New York Tuesday: October 5, November 9 Philadelphia Wednesday: October 6, November 10 Baltimore Thursday: October 7; Friday, November 12* * changed by Veterans Day holiday 5 •V W ':m¥. Each port's meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals JOHN CLAYTON ATKINSON If you were bom on August 2, 1949 and are the half-brother of Suzanne Couch, you may contact her directly at: 11505 Highview Drive, Austin, Texas 78750, or you may convey a message for her by contacting Mrs. Mildred Collier at The Salvation Army, 1424 Northeast Expressway, Atlanta, OA 30329; (404) 728-1300. ARTHUR RATHJENS Please contact your old friend Larry Caffin at 26 Primrose Avenue, Scarsdale, NY 10583. sC^. The One That Didn't Get Away I - George Koulouris, cook/baker aboard the Cpl. Louis J. Hauge, does a little fishing in Diego Garcia and comes up with enough tuna for the crew's dinner (plus some leftovers). �16 SmBmER1993 XAFMERSLOG Seafarers International Union Directory Michael Sacco President John Fay Secretary-Treasurer Joseph Sacco Executive Vice President Augustin Tellez Vice President Collective Bargaining George McCartn^ Vice President West Coast Roy A. •'Buck" Mercer Vice President Government Services Jack CafTey Vice President Atlantic Coast Byron Kelley Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Coraey Vice President Gulf Coast HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr. Algonac,MI 48001 313)794-4988 BALTIMORE 1216 E. Baltimore St. Baltimore, MD 21202 (410)327-4900 DULUTH 705 Medical Arts Building Duluth,MN 55802 (218)722-4110 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St. Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St. Houston, TX 77002 (713)659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St. Jacksonville, PL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JERSEY CITY 99 Montgomery SL Jersey City, NJ 07302 (201) 435-9424 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy. Mobile, AL 36605 (205)478-0916 NEW BEDFORD 48 Union St. New Bedford, MA 02740 (508)997-5404 NEW ORLEANS 630 Jackson Ave. New Orleans, LA 70130 (504)529-7546 NEW YORK 675 Fourth Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718)499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St. Norfolk, VA 23510 (804) 622-1892 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St. Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215)336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75 Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 2 West Dixie Highway Dania, PL 33004 (305) 921-5661 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont SL San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Govenunent Services Division (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave. Stop 16V^ Santurce, PR 00907 (809) 721-4033 SEATTLE 2505 First Ave. SeatUe, WA 98121 (206)441-1960 ST. LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave. SL Louis, MO 63116 (314)752-6500 WILMINGTON 510 R Broad Ave. Wilmington, CA 90744 (310)549-4000 Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes JULY 16 — AUGUST 15,1993 CL—Company/Lakes L—Lakes NP—Non Priority •TOTAL REGISTERED AH Groups Class CL Class L Class NP Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac 24 7 14 6 0 4 0 0 17 10 TOTAL SHIPPED AH Groups OassCL Class L Class NP DECK DEPARTMENT 0 35 12 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 28 5 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 8 5 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 8 5 ••REGISTERED ON BEACH AH Groups Class CL Class L Class NP 0 • IJ 0 13 10 : .oi n 0 8 Totals All Departments 0 59 23 0 79 27 0 34 * "Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. 12 14 25 Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters JULY 16 - AUGUST 15,1993 •TOTAL REGISTERED AH Groups Class A Class B Class C Region • 6 Atlantic.Coast, 9 Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters „. 16 2 West Coast 33 Totals Region Atlantic Coast 1 X. Gulf Coast 4 Lakes & Inland Waters 13 West Coast 0 Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals 0 1 0 1 2 17 31 18 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 3 1 1 2 1 5 0 0 0 0 0 0. 4 0 3 7 14 TOTAL SHIPPED AH Groups Class A Class B Class C DECK DEPARTMENT 3: 2 1 6 9 0 0 79 0 25 93 1 31 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 0 1 0 0 0 a 0 0 0 5 0 0 STEWAM) DEPARTMENT 0 . 0 .. 0 1 3 1 0 0 3 0 3 4 1 6 ••REGISTERED ON BEACH AH Groups Class A Class B Class C 47 12 2 4 0 33 4 96 1 7 55 88 3 4 22 1 0 9 33 0 29 2 0 0 3 4 1 6 2 13 0 1 0 1 2 0 0 9 138 12 111 * "Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. ** "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. Totals All Departments 56 41 102 MARKING THE 50th ANNIVERSARY OF WORLD WAR n MUM wn SOCIETY SEEKS TUGBOAT PHOTOS AND INFORMATION The Tugboat Enthusiasts Society is seeking photographs, stories and other materials concerning tugs that are plying or have sailed on America's waterways. The Society is dedicated to preserv­ ing the heritage of tugboating in the United States and sharing its wealth of information with people fascinated by the history and current affairs of the tugboat industry. For more information on the or­ ganization, contact Joseph P. DeMuccio at the Tugboat Society of America, Bayview, 308 Quince Street, Mount PleasanL SC 29464. New York City, long a major gateway for the Unit^ States, continued to play a vital role during World War II. Hundreds of convoys were builL loaded and manned in New York's port. The South Street Seaport Museum and The Seamen's Church Institute will mark the 50th anniversary of World War II with programs conunemorating the role of New York's World War Il-era port workers and merchant seamen. Veteran Seamen's Sunday, Nov. 7 at the South Streeet Seaport Museum— A day of activities honoring those who prepared and manned merchant vessels during the war will include a harbor cruise, buffet lunch and museum UPDATE YOUR ADDRESS If you recently moved or changed your name, it is necessary to have your correct address on file with the Seafarers Vacation Plan. If you have not yet notified the union, go to your nearest union hall and fill out a chainge of address form or send your new address (along with your name, book number and social security num­ ber) to: Address Control, Seafarers In­ ternational Union, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. 37 demonstrations. (Admission: museum $6; cruise - $12; lunch - $12; $25 veteran's package includes museum, cmise and lunch. Pre-registration is re­ quired for the package.) Tickets are available at museum's Visitors Center, 12 Fulton Street. Reservations may be made by calling (212) 669-9416. Storytelling Session: Remembering the Port of New York During WWII, November 11—Four who labored at sea and on shore will recount all manner of maritime activity, keeping their memmories alive using the oral tradition of seafarers worldwide. They include a merchant seaman, longshoreman and two female shipbuilders. Free admission at the Seamen's Church Institute, 241 Water St. ATTENTION: MEMBERSHIP PORT OF SEATTLE Virginia Mason Clinic will offer flu shots and blood draws for benzene tests on Wednesday, November 10, between the hours of 9:00 - 11:30 a.m. and 1:(X) - 3:30 p.m. at the Seattle hall, located at 2505 1st Avenue. Any member interested in using this benefit should call the hall between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. on November 8 or November 9; (206) 441-1960. In order to utilize this benefiL a mem­ ber must qualify under the rules of the' plan (including proof of 120 days seatime in 1992 and I day of employ­ ment in the last six months). isi �' - ^ v: -•;:v-;;:;?;^Gf|^| V-K'^' SEFJEMBER1993 SEAFARERS LOG To Our New Pensioners ... Thanks for a Job Well Done Each month in the Seafarers LOG, the names ofSIU members who recently have become pensioners appear with a brief biographical sketch. These men and women have served the maritime industry well, and the SIU and all their union brothers and sisters wish them happiness and health in the days ahead. T wo members who graduated from the union's top training programs in the steward and deck depart­ ments at the Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship are among the 20 mariners who retired last month as announced by the Seafarers Welfare Plan. Brother David Atkinson graduated from the bosun recertification course in 1973 while Brother Revels Poovey com­ pleted the steward recertification course in 1985. A total of 11 members sign­ ing off from their seagoing careers sailed in the deep sea division while 6 were aboard in­ land vessels and 3 worked on the Great Lakes. Ten Seafarers who are begin­ ning their retirements served in the U.S. armed forces: three in the Army, three in the Navy, two in the Air Force and two served in both the Army and Navy. TTiree of those signing off are beginning their retirements in Washington while two each reside in Maryland and Texas. The remaining merchant mariners have made their homes in Missouri, West Vir­ ginia, Hawaii, New Jersey, North Carolina, Florida, Alabama, Louisiana, Ohio, Wis­ consin, Michigan* Norway and the Philippines. Brief biographical sketches of Brothers Atkinson and Poovey, as well as the others, follow. DEEP SEA WILDER ADAMS, 65, joined the SIU in 1975 in the port of Wil­ mington, Calif. A na­ tive of Springfield, Miss., he sailed in the deck department. Brother Adams upgraded at the Lun­ deberg School frequently. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1945 to 1949 and the U.S. Army from 1950 to 1972. Brother Adams still calls Springfield home. DAVID AT­ KINSON, 56, Joined the SIU in 1962 in the port of Seat­ tle. Bom in Bellingham, Wash., he completed the bosun recertification program at the Lundeberg School in 1973. Brother Atkin­ son served in the U.S. Navy from 1956 to 1958. He resides in Spokane, Wash. ALEX­ ANDER BECKER, 65, Joined the union in 1949 in the port of New York. A - - f'-r,,, "Y " Connecticut native, he sailed in the engine department. Brother Becker upgraded at Piney Point in 1975. Brother Becker retired to Seattle. HERBERT WON, 65, Joined the Seafarers in 1955 in the port of New York. A na­ MARTIN DALE, 66, Joined tive of the SIU in 1964 in the port of Seattle. A native of Norway, he Honolulu, sailed in the engine department. he sailed in the deck depart­ Brother Dale resides in Norway ment. Brother Won still calls Honolulu home. RICHARD GLAZE, 63, Joined INLAND the union in 1946 in his FREMONT native Bal­ ANDER­ timore. He SON, 55, sailed in the Joined the engine union in department. Brother Glaze 1969 in the upgraded at the Lundeberg port of School in 1978. He still calls Philadel­ Baltimore home. phia. Bora in New Jersey, he sailed in the SANTIAGO KINANAHAN, engine department. Boatman 69, Joined the Seafarers in 1969 Anderson served in the U.S. Army from 1956 to 1958. He in the port of Seattle. Bora in the Philippines, he sailed as a resides in Berlin, N.J. chief cook. Brother Kinanahan served in the U.S. Army from JOHN 1942 to 1946. He resides in FRANKLIN Seattle. JR., 68, Joined the SIU in 1979 EDGEL LUZIER, 64, Joined in the port the SIU in 1946 in the port of of Norfolk, Baltimore. A Richwood, W.Va. Va. Bora in native, he sailed in the deck Miami, he department. Brother Luzier sailed in the steward depart­ upgraded at Piney Point fre­ ment. Boatman Franklin served quently. He retired to Camden- in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to on-Gauley, W.Va. 1964. He retired to Corapeaka, N.C. BONIFACIO PALMA, 72, Joined the Seafarers in 1968 in the port of San Francisco. Bora in the Philippines, he sailed in the steward department. Brother Palma served in the U.S. Navy from 1945 to 1965. He lives in Metro Manila, Philippines. REVELS POOVEY, 67, Joined the union in 1968 in the port of San Francisco. A native of Gastonia, N.C., he completed the steward recertification program at the Lundeberg School in 1985. Brother Poovey served in the U.S. armed forces from 1943 to 1946. He resides in Houston. RICHARD RIGNEY, 65, Joined the SIU in 1962 in the port of New York. Bora in Bal­ timore, he sailed in the deck department. Brother Rigney calls Falkston, Md. home. LOLAPINKSTON,65, Joined the Seafarers in 1981 in the port of Paducah, Ky. A na­ tive of Norfolk, Ark., she sailed in the steward department. Boatwoman Pinkston resides in Melbourne, Fla. GREAT LAKES ROBERT TRAHAN, 50, Joined the Seafarers in 1975 in the port of Port Arthur, Texas. A Nederland, Texas native, he sailed in the dedk department. Boatman Trahan still calls Nederland home. ? berta, Mich. A Michigan na­ tive, he sailed as a cook. Brother Kahl resides in Manitowoc, Wis. LEWIS DIEHL, 58, joined the union in 1954 in the port of Al­ pena, Mich. A native of West Vir­ ginia, he sailed as a wheelsman. Brother Diehl retired to New Matamoras, Ohio. LEO KAHL, 65, joined the SIU in 1954 in the port of El- 4 •. ROBERT MCCARL, 62, Joined the Seafarers in 1961 in the port of Chicago. Bora in Ashland, Wis., he sailed as a dredgeman. Brother McCarl served in the U.S. Air Force from 1950 to 1954. He retired to Ludington, Mich. Clie Holtbaj* ^eaifon Si 3uit ^tounb tl^e Comer ' I" One feature in the Seafarers LOG that has been extremely well received over the past two years is the inclusion of holiday greetings in the Decemberissue. Active and retired Seafarers—^as well as their family members—^are invited to send their greetings to friends, shipmates and loved ones through the pages of the LOG. The procedure is simple. In 25 words or less (and in your neatest PRINTING possible), write the message in the space provided below. All (legible) greetings that are written in the holiday spirit will be included in the December 1993 issue of the Seafarers LOG, if they are received in time. The deadline for receipt of the holiday messages is Friday, November 12, 1993. Send them by mail to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. After November 1, facsimile copies will be accepted. The fax number is (301) 702-4407. Forms also may be filled out in any union hall and turned in to the official at the counter—or may be given to the boarding patrolman at a vessel's payoff. Holtbap JttesifiaBr (PLEASE PRINT OR TYPE) To: From: Message: CLARENCE ROBINSON, 65, Joined the union in 1974 in the port of Mobile, Ala. A Mis­ sissippi native, he sailed as a chief engineer. Boatman Robin­ son served in the U.S. Army from 1952 to 1957. He lives in Perdido, Ala. JAMES TODD HI, 54, Joined the SIU in 1964 in the port of New Orleans. Bora in Amite, La., he sailed as a captain. Boatman Todd upgraded at Piney Point in 1973. He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1958 to 1962. He calls Denham Springs, La. home. 17 It' •y-.. % . Check the blcck which describes your status with the <SIU: • Active Seafarer • Family Member of Active Seaferer • Detired Seafarer • Family Member of CJetired Seafarer Send your greeting to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. The greeting shmild be received at the LOG office by Friday, November 12,1993. 9/93 • •••••• -- �tin' ft?:'#-' V. 'i>J ^ ".'T . • •• "1 - IV%. 5• •• • 18 The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union ship­ board minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships minutes first are reviewed by the union's contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships minutes. The minutes are then for­ warded to the Seafarers LOG. : •. - : FRANCES HAMMER (OCCI), March 14—Chairman Richard Wil-, son. Secretary Steven Parker, Educa­ tional Director Denny Burns, Deck Delegate William Powell, Engine Delegate George Demetropoulos. ffilPSIiSi!"Chairman discussed contract negotia­ tions and urged members to submit recommendations to contracts depart­ ment. Secretary thanked entire crew for helping keep mess halls and gal­ ley clean. Educational director urged members to upgrade at Piney Point. Treasurer reported $477 in ship's fund and announced educational films will be purchased next port. No beefs or disputed OT reported Crew asked contracts department to look into several items including permis­ sion for New Bedford, Mass. union hall to provide clinic cards and drug testing for deep sea members, a change in shipping rules regarding time at sea and explanation of policy regarding maximum OT per voyage. Chairman asked contracts depart­ ment to send vessel safety informa­ tion. Steward thanked Chief Cook Dadang Rashldi for excellent meals and keeping galley spotless. Next port: Rotterdam. ft . r-j ty SEPTEM8ER1993 SEAFARERSLOG Director P. Kanauos, Deck Delegate Daniel Miller, Engine Delegate Ellis Young. Chairman reminded mem­ bers to donate to SPAD and an­ nounced payoff. Educational director reported smooth sailing. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang for clean ship and very clean mess rooms and galley. OMI CHARGER (OMI), May 5— Chairman G. Beverly, Secretary Neville Johnson, Educational Direc­ tor M.R. Williams, Deck Delegate Clemente Roche, Engine Delegate A. Craig, Steward Delegate Leon Grant. Chairman announced new washing machine will be brought aboard in Florida. Educational direc­ tor urged members to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Crew held discus­ sion on Seafarers Welfare Plan. Next port: Port Everglades, Fla. Steward delegate reported beef and disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine delegate. Crew asked contracts department to look into amending shipping rules regarding time at sea. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang. OT reported. Crew asked contracts department to look into increasing medical and dental coverage. Crew re­ quested new seat covers for crew lounge and reported sauna door is broken. Crew thanked galley gang for great food and clean ship for entire trip. Next port: Hong Kong. SEA-LAND CONSUMER (SeaSEA-LAND INDEPENDENCE Land Service), May 30—Chairman (Sea-Land Service), May 9—Chair­ W. Mortier, Secretary D'Vaughn Scruggs, Educational Director Chris­ man Francis Adams, Secretary topher Earhart, Deck Delegate Rus­ Nancy Heyden, Educational Director Ray John Machaj, Engine Delegate sell Haynes, Steward Delegate Saleh All, Steward Delegate Cecil Lawrence Carranza. Educational Gubisch. Chairman thanked entire , director announced safety movies crew for great job. He thanked galley available in officers lounge. He reminded members to upgrade at Paul gang for great chow during entire Hall Center to advance in maritime in­ toiir and complimented members for keeping clean ship. He also en­ dustry. Deck delegate reported dis­ couraged SPAD donations. Educa­ puted OT. No beefs or disputed OT tional director urged crew to read reported by engine or steward Seafarers LOGs and donate to SPAD delegate. Crewmembers reported and MDL. He discussed importance Seafarers LOGs received. Next port: Honolulu. SEA-LAND CRUSADER (SeaLand Service), May 25—Chairman Angel Hernandez, Secretary R. Evans, Educational Director Oswald Bermeo. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew reported Seafarers LOGs received. Crew gave vote of thanks to steward and galley gang for job well done. Chairman reminded crew garbage is to be separated into two cans for plastic and paper. gave vote of thanks to galley gang for excellent job. Next port: Boston. SEA-LAND QUALITY(Sea-Land Service), May 23—Chairman Car­ mine Bova, Secretary TJ.Smith, Educational Director Ken Linah, Deck Delegate Leo Enhace, Engine Delegate Edward Trester, Steward Delegate Louis Lightfoot. Chairman announced arrival in Charleston, S.C. on May 26. Educational director reminded members to upgrade skills at Lundeberg School. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Crew reported let­ ter from headquarters received and requested additional Seafarers LOGs. Chairman reminded crewmembers to keep recreation room clean. Crew gave vote of thanks to steward depart­ ment. SEA-LAND SP//?/r (Sea-Land Ser­ vice), May 9—Chairman Rafael Cle- PS CM" Sailing Time Aboard the Ambassador SEA-LAND DEFENDER (SeaLand Service), May 16—Chairman G.M. Westphal, Secretary John Alamar, Educational Director Rolan­ OMI MISSOURI (Vulcan Carriers), do Gumanis. Chairman told crew he May 23—Chairman C. Gutierrez, was happy to join vessel in Kobe, Secretary C. Kreiss, Deck Delegate Japan. Chairman reported no word on Charles Parman, Engine Delegate B. contract negotiations. Educational Magliano, Steward Delegate Abdul director urged members to use Aziz. Chairman announced smooth upgrading system at Lundeberg trip and payoff in Mobile, Ala SEA-LAND QUALITY(Sea-Land School to better self and job skills. AB Joseph McGIII updates the sailing board at the loading ramp aboard Treasurer reported $50 in ship's fond. Service), April 18—Chairman Car­ Crowley s Ambassador. Disputed OT reported by deck Deck delegate and engine delegate mine Bova, Secretary TJ.Smith, delegate. No beefs or disputed OT reported disputed OT. No beefs or dis­ Educational Director Gerald Payne, reported by engine or stewed of upgrading at Lundeberg School. mente. Secretary Steve Apodaca, puted OT reported by steward delegate. Deck Delegate William Dillion, En­ delegate. Crew asked contracts No beefs or disputed OT reported. Educational Director Charles Hen­ Chairman reported starboard gangway gine Delegate Edward Trester, department to look into amending Chairman reminded crewmembers ley, Deck Delegate Theodore Doi, needs repair and asked crewmembers to Steward Delegate Louis Lightfoot. shipping rules regarding sea time. new contract should Engine Delegate Phil Parent, suggestions for help keep ship clean. Chairman announced arrival in Bos­ Crew asked chairman to look into Steward Delegate Frank Maliga. K turned in to patrolman at payoff. ton and payoff in Elizabeth, N.J. having captain post a notice prior to Chairman reported smooth sailing. Crew reported shipboard funeral ser­ OVERSEAS VALDEZ(Maritime Educational director reminded mem­ inspection and have one unlicensed vices for SlU brothers George M^lOverseas), May 2S—Chairman Treasmer reported $420 in movie bers to upgrade skills at Lundeberg person present at all times when fond. No beefs or disputed OT am Harding and Goon Van Ching. Frank Cottongiu, Secretary T. LafSchool. No beefs or disputed OT licensed members enter crew reported. Crew asked contracts 4ext port: Long Beach, Calif. fitte. Educational Director E. reported. Chairman reminded crew to quarters. Next port: Oakland, Calif. department to look into company iiacom. Deck Delegate K. McSEA-LAND NAVIGATOR(Searewind tapes and help keep recreation Lamb, Engine Delegate Guadalupe providing chair on bridge for SEA-LAND EXPLORER (Sea.and Service), May 16—Chairman room tidy. helmsman. Crew also asked contracts Garza, Steward Delegate Carlos Land Service), May 30—Chairman ' Vemer Becher, Secretary J. Or­ department to clarify cargo hold work Arauz. Crew reported new vent for WESTWARD VENTURE (lOM), Jack Kingsley, Secretary W. Burtega, Educational Director Walter in new contract. Crew thanked galley dryer needed. Beef reported by deck April 29—Chairman M.W. Kadderdette. Educational Director G. Pol­ Stevens, Deck Delegate Sean gang for job well done. Crew gave delegate. No beefs or disputed OT ly. Secretary R.B. Sanderson, Educa­ lard Lowsley, Deck Delegate Edgar )aherty. Engine Delegate Robert reported by engine or steward special thanks to Theodore Doi for tional Director Cris Cunningham, Townsend, Engine Delegate Robert Zurfluh, Steward Delegate helping keep recreation room clean. Steward Delegate Steve Soofi. Chair­ delegate. Crew asked contracts Lee, Steward Delegate Jesse James. Napoleon Gavin. No beefs or disdepartment to look into amending Next port: Honolulu. man reported smooth sailing. Educa­ Chairman reminded crewmembers juted OT reported. Crew reported shipping rules regarding time at sea. tional director encouraged members signing off to strip bunks and leave new coffee machine needed in SEA-LAND TACOMA (Sea-Land Next port: Tampa, Fla. to upgrade at Paul Hall Center and rooms clean. He gave vote of thanks crew lounge and engineroom. Service), May 24—Chairman A. Eckdonate to SPAD. No beefs or dis­ 4ext port: Tacoipa, Wash. SEA-LAND ACHIEVER (Sea-Land to galley gang for good menus and ert. Secretary F. Sison, Educational puted OT reported. Crew reported crew for good trip. Steward delegate Service), May 30—Chairman James Director C. Kper, Steward Delegate SEA-LAND PACIFIC (Sea-Land Sea/arerj LOGi received. Crew gave reported disputed OT. No beefs or E. Davis, Secretary Felipe Orlanda, William Wales. Educational director Service), May 23—Chairman Lothar vote of thanks to steward department. Engine Delegate Sheldon Greendisputed OT reported by deck or en­ reminded members to donate to teck. Secretary R. Mathews, Educa­ Chairman reminded crewmembers to gine delegates. Crew reported berg, Steward Delegate Robert SPAD and take advantage of upgrad­ tional Director Steve Bigelow. Chair­ keep lounge clean because it is home Arana. Chairman informed members Seafarers LOGs received and dis­ ing opportunities at Paul Hall Center. man reported no lodging available for while aboard ship. Next port: tributed. Crew asked contracts depart­ of update on contract negotiations. Treasurer reported $700.50 in ship's crewmembers during shipyard period Anchorage, Alaska. ment to look into increased funds for Educational director encouraged fund. No beefs or disputed OT as of yet. Treasurer report^ $80 in fresh produce on foreign voyages. members to upgrade at Lundeberg reported. Crew gave vote of thanks to CLEVELAND (Sealift Inc.), May movie fund and $45 in ship's fond. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. School. Treasurer reported $45 in steward department for good meals. 7—Chairman F, Khan, Secretary R. No beefs or disputed OT reported. movie fond. No beefs or disputed OT Next port: Tacoma, Wash. Linasan, Educational Director J. SEA-LAND INDEPENDENCE Crew reported Seafarers LOGs reported. Steward delegate reported Barry, Deck Delegate David (Sea-Land Service), May 1—Chair­ received. Crew asked contracts SEA-LAND TRADER (Sea-Land problems with menu selection. Crew Gasoutte, Engine Delegate Dion man Francis Adams, Secretary department for clarification on room Service), May 30—Chairman Loren gave vote of thanks to steward depart­ Papas, Steward Delegate Mike Nancy Heyden, Educational Director cleaning below bridge deck. Crew Watson, Secretary Joe Johnson, ment. Galley gang members include Vinca. Chairman thanked crewmem­ Ray John Machaj, Deck Delegate gave vote of thanks to steward depart­ Educational Director R.W. Risbeck. Chief Steward Orlanda, Chief Cook bers for job well done. Secretary Lee Dubany, Engine Delegate Saleh ment. Crew discussed using movie Educational director urged members Arana and SA Jose Santos. Chair­ thanked crew for keeping ship clean. All, Steward Delegate Cecil fund to get new VCR. to upgrade at Lundeberg School. man reminded crewmembers to cleati Educational directorcongratulated Gubisch. Chairman announced letter Treasurer reported $100 in ship's int off dryer trap before and after Piney Point upgraders and advised all received from captain. He reported SEA-LAND PERFORMANCE fund. No beefs or disputed OT use. Next port: Norfolk, Va. members to upgrade skills at Lun­ everything running smoothly with no Sea-Land Service), May 3—Chair­ reported. Crew gave galley gang vote deberg School. Treasurer reported beefs or disputed OT. Chairman man Ervin Bronstein, Secretary SEA-LAND ATLANTIC (Sea-Land of thanks for job well done on salad ship's fund used to purchase new thanked SlU President Michael Dante Slack, Educational Director Service), May 16—Chairman Calvin bar and excellent food. movies in San Francisco. No beefs or James, Secretary F. Costango, Sacco, Secretary-Treasurer John Fay D.L..Johnson, Deck Delegate Carl disputed OT reported. Crew reported SEALIFT CHINA SEA (IMC), May and San Francisco Port Agent Nick Sands, Engine Delegate Juan Toro, Educational Director Kevin DeSue, urgent need for mail service in every 15—Chairman Anthony Zizzo, Celona for visiting the ship. He also Steward Delegate Stephanie Torres. Deck Delegate G. Hernandez, port. Crew asked contracts depart­ Secreta^ Martin Pak. Chairman dis­ gave special thanks to Wilmington, Chairman announced payoff in Steward Delegate Donald Williams. ment for clarification regarding OT cussed importance of Piney Point and Chairman gave vote of thanks to Cap­ Calif. Port Agent George Tricker for Elizabeth, N.J. Educational director for carriage of explosive cargo and • encouraged members to upgrade. help in resolving beef. Secretary urged members to keep accurate tain Tangen for holding sanitary in­ making potable water in port Crew Secretary announced 15-day order of reported smooth sailing. Educational record of seatiipe and encoiuaged spection during homeward voyage. also had questions about coverage of stores expected next port. No beefs or director reminded members to read crew to upgrade at Piney Point No Chairman reported captain rated ship medical expenses overseas. Next disputed OT reported. Crew gave spe­ )eefs or disputed OT. Chairman read "10." He reminded gangway watch to Seafarers LOGs and donate to SPAD. port: Pusan, Korea. cial thanks to galley crew for smiles He reported new VCR still needed letter from Seafarers Plans' Ad­ look out for strangers who may board along with good food: Next port: vessel while in port Educational direc­ and urged members to upgrade at ministrator Nick Marrone regarding GALVESTON 04/(Sea-Land Ser­ tor reminded crewmembers to take ad­ Paul Hall Center when opportunity retirement time. Crew asked contracts Long Beach, Llalif. vice), May 31—Chairman Jim Has­ presents itself. Treasurer reported $95 department to look into amending ship­ vantage of upgrading at Piney Point san, Secretary C.Scott, Educational in ship's fond. No beefs or disputed Deck delegate rqwrted disputed OT. ping rules regarding time at sea. Crew Continued on page 20 . .'v- • �SEPTEMBER 1993 SEAFARERS LOG 19 Final Departures DEEP SEA WILLIE ALBERT Pensioner Willie Albert, 67, passed away July 5. Bom in South Carolina, he joined the Seafarers in 1951 in the port of New York. Brother Albert sailed in the steward department. He upgraded at the Lundeberg School in 1981. Brother Albert served in the U.S. Army from 1952 to 1954. He began receiving his pension in Sep­ tember 1985. PAULBILLIOT LEARTHUR JORDAN Learthur Jor­ dan, 46, passed away July 31. He joined the SIU in 1970 in his native Mobile, Ala. Brother Jor­ dan sailed in the steward department. He upgraded to chief cook at Piney Point in 1989. the deck department. HERBERT BRANDON Pensioner Herbert Brandon, 86, died May IS. A native of Glens Ferry, Idaho, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1937 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters Dis­ trict (AGLIWD) of the SIU. Brother Brandon retired in July 1968. EVERETT MAXWELL Pensioner Everett Maxwell, 78, died July 20. Bora in Springfield, Mass., he joined the Seafarers in 1956 in the port of Baltimore. Brother Maxwell sailed in the en­ gine departinent. He began receiv­ ing his pension in February 1980. LICHECTA BUTLER Lichecta But-^ ler,21, passed away July 14. Bora in Louisiana, he graduated from the Harry Lun­ deberg School of Seamanship in 1992. Brother But­ ler sailed in the steward department WILLIAM MCRAE Pensioner William McRae, 95, passed away June 26. A Philadelphia native, he joined the union in 1955 in the port of Seattle. Brother McRae sailed in the steward department. He retired in April 1976. ERICDAHL Pensioner Eric Dahl, 85, died June 27. A native of Sweden, he joined the Seafarers in 1951 in the port of New York. Brother Dahl sailed in the engine department. He began receiving his pension in January 1975. LAWSON EVANS Pensioner Lawson Evans, 87, passed away July 28. Bora in Washington, D.C., he joined the union in 1944 in the port of New York. Brother Evans sailed in the engine department. He served in the U.S. Army from 1941 to 1942. Brother Evans began receiving his pension in June 1969. JUAN HOPKINS 'W ' wich. Conn., he joined the SIU as a charter member in 1939 in the port of Providence, R.I. Brother Hat­ gimisios sailed in the steward department. He retired in Novem­ ber 1973. Pensioner Juan Hopkins, 79, passed away August 3. Bora in Puerto Rico, he joined the Seafarers in 1942 in the port of New York. Brother Hopkins sailed in the engine department. He began receiving his pension in November 1979. HENRY NUTTING Pensioner Henry Nut­ ting, 69, died July 8. Bora in Hassell, Belgium, he joined the SIU in 1965 in the port of Houston. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Nutting recently retired to St. Augustine, Fla. RAMON ROQUE Pensioner Ramon Roque, 81, )assed away July 18. A Key West, ^la. native, he joined the Seafarers in 1940 in the port of Miami. Brother Roque sailed in the steward department. He began receiving his pension in February 1971. UGENIUS SIERADZKI Pensioner Eugenius Sieradzki, 80, died August 2. Bora in Lwow, Poland, he joined the union in 957 in the port of Philadelphia. Irother Sieradzki sailed in the en­ gine department. Brother Sieradzki served in the Polish army from 942 to 1949. He retired in Oc­ tober 1973. WILLIAMJEFFERSON William Jef­ ferson, 50, died July 12. RODNEY SIMMONS A Tulsa, Pensioner Okla. native, Rodney Sim­ he joined the mons, 73, union in 1963 passed away in the port of June 18. He Houston. joined the Brother Jeffer­ Marine Cooks son completed the bosun recertificaand Stewards tion program at the Lundeberg in 1959 in his School in 1976. He served in the native New U.S. Navy from 1960 to 1%2. Orleans, before that union merged with the AGLIWD. Brother Sim­ KOSTA HATGIMISIOS mons began receiving his pension Pensioner Kosta Hatgimisios, 73, September 1984. in died Apgust 1. A native of Nor^ Paul Billiot, 53, passed away July 5. He joined the Seafarers in 1971 in his na tive New Or­ leans. Boatman Bil­ liot sailed in FRANK BLACHOWICZ Pensioner Frank Blachowicz, 72, died June 16. A Maryland native, he joined the SIU in 1975 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Boatman Blachowicz sailed in the engine department. He retired in August 1983. ANTOINEGUIDROZ Pensioner An toine Guidroz, 72, died July 10. A native of Leonville-Pt. Barre, La., he joined the Seafarers in 1974 in the port of Houston. Boatman Guidroz sailed as an AB for G & H Towing from 1969 until his retirement in 1985. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1941 to 1945. EARL JOHNSON Pensioner Earl Johnson, 66, passed away July 16. Bora in Rocking­ ham, N.C., he joined the SIU in 1972 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Boatman Johnson sailed as an en­ gineer. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1944 to 1946. Boatman Johnson began receiving his pen­ sion in April 1989. WOODROW SEWARD Pensioner Woodrow Seward, 79, died June 19. A native of Galveston, Texas, he joined the Seafarers in 1963 in the port of Port Arthur, Texas. Boat­ man Seward sailed as an engineer. He retired in October 1977. WILLIAM WEST Pensioner William West, 82, passed away May 1. Bora in Mathews, Va., he joined the union in 1967 in the port of Philadelphia. Boatman West sailed in the deck department. He began receiving his pension in May 1978. BERNON DAVIDSON Pensioner Beraon Davidson, 78, jassed away June 29. Bora in '4orth Carolina, he joined the union n 1961 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Joatman Davidson sailed as an en­ gineer. He began receiving his pen­ sion in March 1983. GREAT LAKES JOHNWEGLIAN Pensioner John Weglian, 81, )assed away August 1. A Miclygan native, he joined the Seafarers in 965 in the port of Detroit. He sailed in the steward department. Brother Weglian retired in August 1974. RAILROAD MARINE JAMES ANDERSON James Ander­ son, 49, died June 5. A Michigan na­ tive, he joined the SIU in 1978 in the port of Al­ pena, Mich. Brother Anderson sailed in the deck depart­ ment. WILLIAM LANCZKY Pensioner William Lanczky, 77, died April 9. A New Jersey native, he joined the Seafarers in 1963 in the port of New York. Brother Lanczky began receiving his pension in Janurary 1971. MARTIN OZMINA Pensioner Martin Ozmina, 87, passed away July 25. Bora in Illinois, he joined the Seafarers in 1962 in the port of Chicago. Brother Ozmina sailed in the deck department. He retired in February 1977. VERNONSAVAGE Pensioner Vernon Savage, 71, died May 8. , A native of Jersey City, N.J., he sailed both as a Great Lakes tugboat operator and as an inland boatman. Brother Savage served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to 1948. He began receiving his pension in May 1989. CLIFFORD THOMAS Pensioner Clifford Thomas, 79, passed away June 19. Bora in Michigan, he joined the union in 1969 in the port of Frankfort, Mich. Brother Thomas sailed in the deck department. He retired in Oc­ tober 1978. JOSEPH TURNER Pensioner Joseph Turner, 66, died May 8. A native of Sault Ste. . Marie, Mich., he joined the SIU in 1961 in the port of Detroit. Brother Turner sailed as a tug linesman with Great Lakes owing until his retirement in December 1987. FRANCIS STEWART Pensioner Francis Stewart, 77, passed away May 9. Bora in Brooklyn, N.Y.,he joined the union in I960 in the port of New York. Brother Stewart served in the U.S. Army from 1934 to 1946. He retired in November 1974. ATLANTIC FISHERMEN ANTHONY GALLO Pensioner An­ thony Gallo, 74, passed away June 10. He joined the Seafarers in 1967 in his na­ tive Gloucester, Mass. Brother Gallo sailed as an engineer. He retired in March 1984. •'• • CORRECTION HERNELL E. EDWARDS The August edition of the Seafarers LOG inadver­ tently printed incorrect in­ formation on HernellE. Edwards. The notice should have read: Pensioner Ed­ wards, 71, passed away June 16. A ^uisiana native, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1971 in the port of New Orleans, jefore that union merged with the AGLIWD. Brother Edwards comjleted the steward recertification course at the Lundeberg School in 979. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1941 to 1944. Brother Ed­ wards retired in March 1987. •S Max Steen Honored by Seattle Seafarers Paisioner Max Steen, 83, passed away July 10. Broker Steen had no sur­ viving family when he died, so his SIU brothers and sisters and friends from Seattle's Jewish community joined together to honor his memory. Brother Steen was born in Sweden where for many years he was a professional horse breeder and was involved in the European horse racing circuit. He continued to work widr horses when he flr^t came to the United States during World War II. Steen joined the Seafarers in March 1946 in the port of Baltimore. His first ship was the SS Mission San Araonio. He began sailing as a steward utility and worked his way up to chief steward. In 1969, Steen became a naturalized U.S. citizen and changed his name from Steinsapir. After 22 years of sailing, he began his retirement in 1968 in Seattle. He later moved to Piney Point, Md. to live at the Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship. Several years later he moved back to Seattle. When Steen died in June, friends provided funeral and memorial services. Six SIU mem­ bers served as pallbearers and car­ ried Brother Steen to his final resting place. -JL. ..V ,. .a "T • �IP ZO Ships Digest pV"' •'• i?,n ,r.' ^'1^;/^,., ^•: ; ? .• • .... " V • '. • •'* • ' '.•: ' • ;.' c* Continued from page 18 ., , SEPTEMRER1993 SEAFARERS IHQ SEAM rO/? (Crowley American Transport), May 23—Secretary R.T. Seim, Educational Director William Cameron. Crew still waiting for cor­ respondence from headquarters regarding deck beef. Educational director urged members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center and contribute to SPAD and MDL funds. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed involvement in political areas of union issues. Crew thanked galley gang for fine varied menus and weekly bar­ becue cookouts. Steward department thanked entire crew for fine team woiic in keeping ship very clean. Next port; Port Everglades, Ha. separate sleeping quarters for day sleepers and watch standers. TTB G/70r0/V (Sheridan Transporta­ tion), June 4—Chairman Neil Matthey. Secretary M. Deloatch, Educational Director J. Carnell, Deck Delegate Brian Fountain, En­ gine Delegate Pete Murtagh, Steward Delegate Michael Hammack. Chairman announced ship scheduled to lay up in shipyard end of June or beginning of July. Crew . gave vote of thanks to company for new couch. Secretary thanked crew for keeping mess room clean at night. Educational director reminded mem­ bers to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew reported Seafarers LOGs received. Crew gave many thanks to galley gang and deck department for great cookout on Memorial Day. Louis Sorito Jr., Engine Delegate Richard Robertson, Steward Delegate Udjang Nurdjaja. Chair­ man reminded crewmembers to ad­ here to ETC policies while ashore as well as on vessel. Educational direc­ tor encouraged members to check upgrading schedule and upgrade at Lundeberg School while off vessel. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Secretary W. Washington, Deck Delegate Errick Nobles, Engine Delegate Earl Adams, Steward Delegate Daniel Crawford. Chair­ man announced payoff upon arrival in Portland, Maine. Educational direc­ tor urged members to upgrade skills at Lundeberg School. Deck and steward delegates reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine delegate. Crew gave vote of thanks to chief steward for job well done. Crew requested new washer and reported refrigerator needs repair. LNG AQUARIUS(ETC), June 13Chairman Sam Brooks, Secretary Franklin Robertson, Educational Director John Orr, Engine Delegate Bruce Zennon, Steward Delegate Rafael Cardenas. Chairman thanked OMI LEADER (OMI Corp.), June 27—Chairman Patrick Rankin, galley gang for food and menus. Secretary C. Michael Davalie, Educational director reminded mem­ Educational Director Davon Mc­ bers to send seatime in with applica­ Millan, Deck Delegate Eugene Fintion when applying for upgrading ley, Steward Delegate Nee Tran. courses at Piney Point. No beefs or Chairman requested another dryer for disputed OT reported. Crew re- . crew laundry. He thanked crew for quested new VCR. Steward delegate WESTWARD l^E/Vriy/7E(IOM), ITB GROTON (Sheridan Transporta­ asked crewmembers not to go in fine job done and announced payoff May 31—Chairman M,W, Kaddertion), June 16—-Chairman Neil Maton July 4 upon arrival in Boston. refrigerators and take things at will. ly. Secretary R.B. Sanderson, Educa­ they. Secretary M. Deloatch, Crew gave vote of thanks to galley Crew gave vote of thanks to Rafael tional Director Robert Ohier, Deck Educational Director J. Carnell. gang. Educational director en­ Cardenas for job well done. Cardenas Delegate Paul Davis, Engine Chairman announced ship is couraged members to upgrade at Paul thanked crew for support and help. Delegate Bert Abella, Steward scheduled to lay up in Brooklyn Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT Next port: Bontang, Indonesia. Delegate Steve Soofi. Chairman an­ shipyard dry dock. He reported crew reported. nounced ship to shipyard for 5 days 1STLT. JACKLUMMUS will be laid off approximately 3 in Tacoma, Wash. Educational direc­ weeks. He announced after layup, OMI MISSOURI(Vulcan Carriers), (Amsea), June 13—Chairman Kelly tor urged members to donate to Devine, Secretary Anthony Curran, June 27—Chairman Cesar Gutier­ ship will go to St. Croix for under­ SPAD and upgrade skills at Piney rez, Secretary Clyde Kreiss, Deck water survey. He reminded crewmem- Deck Delegate Don Deflorio, Point Crew discussed courtesy in Steward Delegate Dehora Grendahl. Delegate Randolf Boiling, Engine bers repair list must be turned in. , crew lounge with use of VCR and Delegate Grant Shuman, Steward Chairman discussed hazard pay with Educational director encouraged radio. Chairman reminded crew to Delegate Abdul Aziz. Chairman crewmembers. Treasurer reported members to upgrade at Piney Point. ' keep lounge clean. reported smooth sailing and an­ $244 in ship's fund. No beefs or dis­ No beefs or disputed OT reported. nounced arrival in Tanga, Tanzania. puted OT reported. Crew thanked Crew and officers gave vote of AMERICAN FALCON iCrov/ley He announced outgoing mail should captain for allowing use of rib boat thanks to galley gang for great American Transport), June 19— be given to captain. Treasurer for training. Next port: Jacksonville, cookout. Chairman Harold Power, Secretary reported $50 in ship's fund. No beefs Ha. PJ. Zilkow, Educational Director ITB PHILADELPHIA (Sheridan or disputed OT reported. Crew Earnest Cox, Deck Delegate Mike Transportation), June I—Chairman thanked steward department for great NORTHERN LIGHTS aOM), June Davis. Educational director reminded V. Nielsen, Secretary J.P. Emidy, cookouts. 27—Chairman Ray Waiters, members to upgrade at Lundeberg Educational Director B. Sengelauh, Secretary K. Whit, Educational School. No bwfs or disputed OT OMI SACRAMENTO (Vulcan Car­ Deck Delegate C. Brown, Engine Director Keith Jordan, Deck reported.Crew gave vote of thanks to Delegate Carlos Bonefont, Steward riers), June 20—Chairman Ray Delegate Timothy Jackson, Engine steward department for job well Gorju, Secretary Raul Cavalcanti, Delegate Jack Hart. Steward Delegate Charles Kennedy, Steward done. Crew asked contracts depart­ Educational Director Henry Hall, thanked crew for keeping mess halls Delegate Christopher Green. Chair­ ment for explanation of weekend OT clean. Crew gave vote of thanks to Deck Delegate Kenneth Gilson, En­ man discussed putting lock on conditions. gine Delegate Thomas Martines, galley gang. Next port: New York. bathroom doors. Educational director Steward Delegate Norman Taylor. CONSTELLATION (Maersk encouraged members to upgrade at PFC JAMES ANDERSON Chairman announced new TV in Lines), June 18—Chairman B. Shel­ Lundeberg School. No beefs or dis­ (Maersk Lines), June 20—Chairman crew lounge and dryer in crew ley, Secretary B. Tyler, Educational puted OT reported. Next port: Thomas Anderson, Secretary Hugh laundry repaired. He also reported Director L.Strong, Deck Delegate TaComa, Wash. Wildermuth, Educational Director poor mail service on vessel. He urged Glen Miller O, Steward Delegate F. L. Cochrane, Deck Delegate James members to upgrade skills at Piney Umali. Educational director urged NEDLLOYD HOLLAND (Sea-Land Hailstone, Steward Delegate Earl ^oint. Educational director also en­ members to upgrade skills at Paul Service), June 13—Chairman F. Castain. Educational director urged couraged merribers to upgrade. Deck Hall Center. Treasurer reported $600 members to upgrade at Lundeberg Gothe, Secretary V. Harper, Educa­ delegate reported disputed OT. No in ship's fund and announced two tional Director D. Bush, Deck School. Treasurer reported $100 in Ijeefs or disputed OT reported by en­ tape rewinders will be purchased in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT Delegate Robert Rager, Engine gine or steward delegates. Next port: Oakland, Calif, for crew lounge. No Delegate Gerald Yore, Steward reported. Next port: Diego Garcia. *ilew Orleans. beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew Delegate Michael Harris. Chairman gave vote of thanks to galley gang for JULIUS HAMMER (OCCD, June urged members to take advantage of OMI WILLAMETTE (OMI Corp.), good food. Crew thanked 'Ashing 28—Chairman Richard Nicholas. upgrading opportunities at Lundeberg . Tune 27—Chairman Glen James, gang" on Midway Island and stated Chairman reported contract exten­ School. Educational delegate also en­ Secretary Robert Scott, Educational the six yellow fin tuna and two sion. Crew reported Seafarers LOGs couraged members to visit Piney Director J. Badgett. Chairman wahoo they donated to ship were fan­ not being received. Educational direc­ Point. Treasurer reported $75 in reported crew needs new washer and tastic. Next port: Concord, Calif. tor reminded members to upgrade at ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT dryer for crew laundry. Chairman dis­ Paul Hall Center. Treasurer reported reported. Crew gave vbte of thanks to cussed waste disposal. Secretary GOPHER STATE (lOM), June $180 in ship's fund to be used to pur­ steward department. Next port: Char­ reported smooth sailing. No beefs or Chairman Dan Teicbman, Secretary chase two sets of fishing poles and leston, S.C. disputed OT reported. Crew gave spe­ A. Austin, Educational Director M. tackle. No beefs or disputed OT cial thanks to Robert Scott for excel­ Arron, Deck Delegate Claude New, reported. Crew discussed importance NUEVO SAN JUAN (Puerto Rico lent salad bar. Chairman urged crew Engine Delegate Eric McTinney. Marine),June 6—Chairman J. Wil­ of having U.S.-flag ships. Crew re­ to upgrade skills at Lundeberg Chairman announced date of arrival liams Secretary R. Fagan, Education­ quested new refrigerator, short wave School. Next port: New York. in Newport News, Va. and reported al Director C. Gallagher, Deck radio and speakers, new beds, new patrolman will meet vessel. Secretary sink. Crew reported antenna needs Delegate D.M, Hood, Engine OVERSEAS HARRIETTE gave vote of thanks to steward depart­ repair. Crew thanked steward depart­ Delegate J. Williams Jr., Steward Maritime Overseas), June 20— ment for fine job and extra efforts Delegate B. Winfield. Chairman ment for great food and cookouts. Chairman W. Jeffersen, Secretary putting together barbecues. Educa­ reported ship running smoothly with H.G. Williams, Engine Delegate tional director urged members to take LNG ARIES(ETC), June 2—Chair­ very good deck department. He an­ Nathaniel Gaten. Secretary reported advantage of upgrading opportunities man Dlus Veach, Secretary Doyle nounced payoff in Elizabeth, N.J. and vessel in Lithuania with load of com at Piney PdinL No beefs or disputed Cornelius, Educational Director reminded crewmembers to ask patrol­ and expected back in United States OT. Crew discussed designating Charles Pomraning, Deck Delegate man about new contract. No beefs or on July 12. He reported smooth sail­ disputed OT reported. Crew gave ing. No beefs or ^sputed OT vote of thanks to galley gang for reported. Crew announced Seafarers good food and job well done. LOGs received. Crew reported over­ OOCL INSPIRATION(Sea-Land load in crew mess hall needs repair. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley Service), June 27—Chairman Mark Trepp, Educational Director Donald »ang for doing fine job. Next port: New Orleans. Christian, Deck Delegate Oscar Lopez, Engine Delegate Jeff OVERSEAS NEW ORLEANS Kinsman. Educational director en­ (Maritime Overseas), June 3—Chair­ couraged members to upgrade skills man Sonny Pinkham, Se<;retary at Piney Point.Treasurer reported Daniel Brown, Educational Director $190 in ship's fund. No beefs or dis­ Gerald Daley, Deck Delegate puted OT. Crew reported Seafarers Pasquale Giorgilli, Engine Delegate LOGs received. Crew gave vote of Jim Skuhna, Steward Delegate thanks to steward department with special thanks to Chief Cook George Marco Guity. Chairman announced contract negotiations in process. He Monseur who is signing off. Next Cr^wmembers aboard Crowley's Ambassador inspect one of the encouraged members to stay aware of port: Charleston, S.C. ship's lifeboats to make sure it works properly. They are (from left) maritime politics and elect repre­ Steward/Baker Milton Youmet, AB Glenn Reynolds, Bosun Leon Jekot OMI CHAMPION (OMl Corp.), sentatives who support U.S. mer­ and ABs Rubin Mitchell, Ben Bess and Robert Grubbs. June 13r—Chairman Paul Domes, chant seamen. Secretary reminded Lifeboat Inspection members to rqad Seafarers LOG. Educational director urged members to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew reported TV in lounge needs repair. Crew gave vote of thanks to gal­ ley gang and observed moment of silence for departed union brothers and sisters. Next port: Newington, N.H. OVERSEAS NEW ORLEANS (Maritime Overseas), June 24— Chairman Sonny Pinkham, Secretary Daniei Brown, Education­ al Director Gerald Daley, Deck Union Support When the OM/Leacferstopped off in Boston, SlU member Robert Duncan had a chance to catch up on union business. Delegate Pasquale Giorgilli, Engine Delegate Jim Skuhna, Steward Delegate Marco Guity. Chairman reported telephone conversation regarding contract negotiations with Assistant Vice President Tony Sacco, Chairman discussed contract exten­ sion with crewmembers. Educational director urged members to utilize Paul Hall Center. No Ireefs of dis­ puted OT reported. Crew reminded of dress code for meal time. Crew gave vote of thanks to steward depart­ ment for outstanding job. Crew con­ gratulated scholarship recipients and observed moment of silence for departed brothers and sisters. Next port: Pascagoula, Miss. OVERSEAS OHIO (Maritime Over­ seas), June 13—Chairman George Schuj, Secretary Earl Gray, Educa­ tional Director D. Bautista, Deck Delegate Larry Lee, Engine ' Delegate RJ. Butoh, Steward Delegate Robert Gilliam. Chairman announced payoff upon arrival in Long Beach, Calif. Secretary reminded members that it is time to consider upgrading at Piney Point. Educational director discussed ad­ vantages of upgrading at Lundeberg School. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew congratulated deck department for excellent job painting ship. Crew gave vote of thanks to gal­ ley gang for job very well done. OVERSEAS WASHINGTON (Maritime Overseas), June 13— Chairinan J. H. Lewis, Secretary R. Miller, Educational Director L« Cope, Deck Delegate Glen Thompson, Engine Delegate Scott Wilkirtson, Steward Delegate Thurman Johrtson.Chairman announced arrival in port. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang for job well done and clean area. flOFE/? (Vulcan Carriers), June 6— Chairman Dennis Brown, Deck Delegate Jori Williams, Engine Delegate Danny Thoma^, Steward Delegate Leslie Davis. Chairman annoimced fax sent to union notifying of arrival date. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade skills at Lundeberg School. Treasurer reported $50 in ship's fund. Disputed OT reported by engine and steward delegates. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck delegate. Crew gave steward department letter of apprecia­ tion for excellent work. Next port: New York. SEA-LAND ANCHORAGE (SeaLand Service), June 23—Chairman G. Walker, Secretary J. Wright, Educational Director K. Bertei, Deck Continued on pt^e 21 �• V^' . • ' SEPTEMBER 1993 Ships Digest Continued from page 20 1.. :. ••-• . <v..: • Delegate Thomas Luketich, Engine Delegate Alan Hansen, Steward Delegate William Bryley. Chairman announced payoff upon arrival in Tacoma, Wash. He reminded all crewmembers to check with boarding patrolman and those signing off to please leave room clean with fresh linens. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman asked crewmem­ bers to keep recreation and laundry rooms clean. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang. SEA-LAND A TLANTIC (Sea-Land Service), June 20—Chairman Calvin James, Secretary F.Costango, Educa­ tional Director Kevin DeSue, Deck Delegate James Rush. Chairman an­ nounced results of captain's sanitary inspection were good. He thanked crew for good job. Crew gave vote of thanks to steward department. Secretary reported fresh stores will be received in Charleston, S.C. Educa­ tional director urged members to use facilities at Piney Point to upgrade skills. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew reported Seafarers LOGs received in Rotterdam. Crew requested new washing machine, VCR, chairs and two vacuum cleaners. SEA-LAND CHALLENGER (SeaLand Service), June 13—Chairman Roy Williams, Secretary H. Scypes, Educational Director Ronald Smith. Chairman reported ship just out of shipyard in Norfolk, Va. He reported payoff in Elizabeth, N.J. Secretary reported dishwasher;coffee maker, refngerator and pantry sprinkler need repairs. No beefs or disputed OT reported. SEA-LAND HA WAII (Sea-Land Service), June 20—Chairman James Carter, Secretary J. Jones, Educa­ tional Director D.G. Gordios. Chair­ man announced with the threat of going foreign flag, it is important to contribute to SPAD. He reported ap­ plications for Lundeberg School avail­ able. Crew gave vote of thanks to SEAFARERS LOG steward department for good food. Next port: Oakland, Calif. SEA-LAND INDEPENDENCE (Sea-Land Service), June 27—Chair­ man Greg Hamilton, Secretary P. Schulz, Educational Director Ray Machaj, Deck Delegate M. Santana, Engine Delegate Melvin Layner. Chairman discussed importance of fire safety and awareness. Secretary discussed garbage and agricultural laws. Educational director reminded members to read Seafarers LOGs and donate to SPAD. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Crew asked con­ tracts department to look into lowering retirement age for all Seafarers to age 55. Crew thanked galley gang for job well done. SEA-LAND LIBERATOR (SeaLand Service), June 13—Chairman Charles Herrera, Secretary G.F. Thomas, Educational Director D.F. Dean. Chairman requested patrolman to meet vessel prepared for union business. Crew discussed movie fund contributions. Crew discussed pur­ chasing bicycles and new lounge sofa with fund. Educational director reminded members to upgrade at Piney Point when possible. Steward delegate asked contracts department to clarify paying of early meals and extra meals to non-crew people in port. Crew asked contracts department to look into improved optical benefits. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. SEA-LAND NA VIGATOR (SeaLand Service), June 20—Chairman Werner Becher, Secretary J. Or­ tega, Educational Director Walter Stevens, Deck Delegate Ken Hagar, Engine Delegate Robert Zurfluh, Steward Delegate Virgilio Hofimann. Chairman reported no new information received fiom headquarters regarding contract negotiations. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. SEA-LAND PACIFIC (Sea-Land Service), June 28—Chairman H. Gifford. Secretary R. Mathews, Educa­ tional Director Steve Bigelow. Treasurer reported $40 in movie fund and $90 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Due to dif­ ference in schedules of watch standers and day workers, crew asked contracts department to look into having separate rooms for members of engine department. 21 Meeting Aboard USNS Capella SEA-LAND PATRIOT(Sea-Land Service), June 26—Chairman R.F. Garcia, Secretary J. Russell, Educa­ tional Director J.F. Hagner. Chair­ man reported contract extension. Chairman discussed foreign flag issue and urged crewmembers to write representatives asking the government to give merchant fleet tax incentives and help keep U.S. ves­ sels U.S. flagged. Educational direc­ tor announced Lundeberg School class schedule posted and encouraged members to upgrade skills. He reminded members that SPAD helps contribute to keeping U.S. ships under U.S. flag and everyone needs During a recent stopover in Jacksonvilie, Fla., crewmembers gathered in the mess room of the USNS Capella for a shipboard meeting. to do their part. No beefs or disputed Pictured above are (from left) Paul Pagano, Mike Shappo, James OT reported. Chairman reminded Jordan and Joe Conlii ilin. crewmembers to clean up after them­ selves. He also reminded crew not to tor urged memljers to upgrade at Paul and radios off while in passageway put empty coffee pot back on hot burner. Next port: Wilmington, Calif. Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT because people are asleep at different reported. Deck delegate discussed im­ times. Next port: Haifa, Israel. SEA-LAND RELIANCE (Sea-Land portance of separating plastic from USNS WILKES (Bay Ship Manage­ Service), June 17—Chairman R. Me- other garbage. Chairman reminded ment), June 18—Chairman R. Skip Gonagle, Secretary G.Sivley, Educa­ crewmembers to work as teams in Yager, Secretary K. Dougherty, tional Director A. Jaramillo, Deck crew mess area. Educational Director C.J. Brown. Delegate Michael Anderson, Engine THOMPSON PASS(lOM), June Chairman reported everything run­ Delegate Leon Fountain, Steward 24—Chairman Jim Colson, ning smoothly and notes good Delegate L. Acosta. Chairman Secretary D. Bergeson, Educational cooperation between all departments. reminded crewmembers to wear Director Joe Walker, Deck Delegate Educational director urged crew to safety gear on deck and thanked them Muhsin Ali, Engine Delegate take advantage of upgrading and for smooth trip. No beefs or disputed Ahmed Yahmed, Steward Delegate educational opportunities available at OT reported. Crew gave vote of Larry Lopez. Chairman thanked Paul Hall Center. Treasurer reported thanks to steward department for job company for new washing machine. $239 in ship's fund. No beefs or dis­ well done. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. Secretary reminded members impor­ puted OT reported. Steward depart­ SEA-LAND SPIRIT(Sea-Land Ser­ tance of upgrading at Piney Point. ment asked for crew cooperation in vice), June 6—Chairman Rafael Cle- Deck delegate reported disputed OT. not walking on newly waxed decks. mente, Secretary Steve Apodaca, No beefs or disputed OT by engine or Crew gave vote of thanks to Chief Educational Director Charles Hen­ steward delegates. Crewmembers Cook Doug Swets and Cook/Baker ley, Deck Delegate Theodore Doi, reported spotting 60 foot albino K. Rohy. Engine Delegate C. Mendeiros, whale with pink eyes off coast of WESTWARD VENTURE (lOM), Steward Delegate Frank Maliga. No Vancouver Island. June 29—Chairman M.W. Kadderbeefs or disputed OT reported. Crew l/Lr/?/lSEA(SealiflInc.), June 13— ly. Secretary R.B. Sanderson, Educa­ asked contracts department to look Chairman Jim Dawson, Secretary tional Director Robert Ohler. into wage and manning increases for W. Williams. Chairman reported TV Chairman reported telex received new contract Crew gave vote of antenna has been repaired and crew firtm company regarding two-month thanks to steward department for job can once again enjoy TV while in extension of contract. Chairman well done. Next port: Honolulu. port. Treasurer reported $56 in ship's reminded crew to keep noise down SEALIFTA TLANTIC (IMC), June fiind. Deck delegate complimented and reported ice machine parts will galley gang on excelleht meals. No 26—Chairman John NefF, Secretary be on board upon arrival in Tacoma, R. Catahan, Educational Director beefs or disputed OT reported. Chair­ Wash. He also asked crewmembers man asked crew to keep noise down Michael Parker. Educational directo return dishes to pantry. Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The constitution of the SIU At­ lantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership's money and union finances. The constitution re-: quires a detailed audit by cer­ tified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretarytreasurer. A yearly finance com­ mittee of raiik-and-file members, elected by the membership, each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their find­ ings and recommendations. Mem­ bers of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recom­ mendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trus­ tees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member's shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusive­ ly by contracts^ between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts be­ tween the union and the employers, thdy should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by cer­ tified mail, return receipt re­ quested. The proper address for this is; Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to mem­ bers at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and hves aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for over­ time (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union offi­ cial fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any ar­ ticle serving the political pur­ poses of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing arr tides deemed harmful to the union or its collective member­ ship. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which con­ sists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual to carry out this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No moniesare to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no cir­ cumstances should any member jay any money for any reason uness he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made without supplying a receipt, or if a member is required to make a payment and is given an official receipL but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGA­ TIONS. Copies of the SIU con­ stitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copies of this constitution so as to familiarize themselves with its contents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitutional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with charges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequent­ ly, no member may be dis­ criminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITI­ CAL ACTIVITY DONATION — SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the politi­ cal, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preser­ vation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment oppor­ tunities for seamen and boatmen " / I' \ ^ and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD sup­ ports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force. Job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such con­ duct, or as a condition of mem­ bership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above im­ proper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers Inter­ national Union or SPAD by cer­ tified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A mem­ ber should support SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and social interests, and American trade union concepts. If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitution­ al right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The ad­ dress is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. •. ' •v-f;--- "I "'-'J. �22 SEFIEMBER1B93 SEJ^MERSLOG Lundeberg School Graduating Classes Trainee Lifeboat Class 513—Graduating from trainee lifeboat class 513 are (from left, kneeling) Michael Pedersen, Jo Doris Stinnett, Michael Johnson, Michael Maddox, Nigel Talley, Stephen Walsh, Marshall Turner, (second row) Jack Caffey III, Michael Woodman, Damon Mathews, Miguel A. Carmona Jr., Warren Moore, Emmitt Sykes, Jimmy Hesson Jr., Michael Natoli, (third row) Ben Cusic (instructor), John McClinton, Anthony Jacbbson, Brian Gaffigan • Richard Smetana and Philip Britt. QMED—Graduating on June 23 as a Qualified Member of the Engine Department (QMED) are (from left, seated) Michael DiAngelo, John Osburn, Peter Sternberg, Thomas Keseru, Burdette Smart, Brian Monnerjahn, Tracy Hill, Scott Duckworth, Jeffrey Murray, (second row) DiMarko Shoulders, Pasquale Gazillo, Bert Voto-Bemales, Mark Aimer, Michael Ribeiro, Eric Millsap, Kevin Twiford, Neil Carter, John Fleming, John Kasbarian, William Scott, (third row) Peter Littman, Richard Metcalf, Brian Collins, Richard Davis, Martin Allred, Eron Hall, Edward Louis, Erik Larka and Ralph Gosnell. Not pictured are Tedd Avey, John Groom and Christine Cameal. Advanced Firefighting—Upgrading members completing the advanced firefighting course are (from left, front row) Byran Cummings (instructor), Willie Marsh, Debra Gardiner, Harry Nar­ rower, Fred Caltabiano, (second row) Richard Butrim, William Burns, David Wigley, (third row) Mary Brayman and Warren Blankenship. Pumproom Maintenance and Operations—Complet­ ing this engine department course are (from left, first row) John Parkhurst, William Parker, Sellers Brooks, Riley Donahue, Steven Hoskins, (second row) Kelly Davis, Cail Montoya, Russ Levin (instructor) and Robert Rudd. Fireman, Oiler, Watertender—^Working their way up the engine departmnet ratings are (from left, kneeling) Duane Werda, Carolyn ThifaulL Glynn Courson, Scott Fuller, Celina Butler, Jeffery Roddy, Felipe Clotter, (second row) Greg Garrett, Kevin Cooper, Beckett Young, Stephen Walters, Gene Whellis, George Radar—Renewing their radar endorsements on July 14 are (from ow)Jeffer, Willis, Ronald Pheneuf, David left) Jake Karaczynski (instructor), Tom Culpepper, Hans Wethal, Jon Beavers, Cromwell Henderson, Gary Winter, Daniel Weaver, (third row)Jeffery Irew Vanbourg. Bowles, Lonnie Matthews and J.C. Wiegman (instructor). Not pictured is Andre Weirauch, Lyie McCorison, Ray Femandez and Thomas Tinsley. Celestial Navigation—Graduating from the celestial navigation course in June are (from left, kneel­ ing) Ralph Race, Dennis Goodwin, Charlotte Winstead, Jon Weirauch, Don Filoni, (second row) Jim Brown (in­ structor), Mike Payne, VVarren Blankenship, Hans Wethal, Walter Taulman and Matthew Holley. • f Upgraders Lifeboat—Certificates of training were received by the June 29 class of upgraders. They are (from left, kneeling) William Begendorf, Erwin Arellano, Charlotte Winstead, David Gannoun, Ben Cusic (instructor), (second row) Ronnie Davis, Oswald Stoiber, Suzanne Van Schoor, Sah/atore Tomeo and Enrique Garrido, Refngeration Systems— Upgrading memtiers of the engine department completing the refrigeration systems cpurse are (from left, front row) John K. Halim, Bruce Zenon, Rex Solin, Matthew Doherty, (second row) Sean Nicholson, Kevin Conklin, (third row) Pompey Alegado, Jerome Kirstein, Paul Patterson and J.C. Wiegman (instructor). �1, SEPTEMBER 1993 SEAFARERS LOG M -*•' <• ^ -• W LWUDEBERG SCHOm. 23 •m^ RacmMkMtmProigrams The following is the current course schedule for classes beginning between September and December 1993 at the Seafarers Hairy Lundeberg School of Seamanship located at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in piney Point, Md. All programs aregeared to improve job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. The course sc^ may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industiy and—in times of conflict—the nation's security. I ^ i Cbeck-ln Date October 4 , tsL- Course • Bosun Recertiflcation 4" "• .. ' Complethin Date November 8 ' ' i' Course AhleSeamui Shipbandibig^ Cbeck-In Completioil Date Date Ail open-ended (contact adrai^Bipil^ oilice for starti%^tes) Check-In Date Completion Date Course AsslstantCool^ September 13 November 8 October 22 December 17 ChleTCmi^ ChMSietill^ All open-ended(«mbetadiijytes^^ office fSor starting datm) September 27 ^ l^ovemberS November 19 ^urse Ratia y ' ^ 'i '' '' 'y* Chedk-ln Cmtipletlmi Ihde Dale Septemlrer 27 . November 5 September 20 November 1 September 24 Novembers FirenianAVatertender and Ctiler November 22 Decmitiierl7 Ail stiiderusjlmst take the Oil Spill Prevention and Conkdnmera cla^ Pumproom Maint & Operations . Novembers Decmnberl7 ' Marine Electrical Maintenance n 'i/' ' : •, September 13 October 22 ':<.OdMtaHr22 ; '. : U' : Novembers Marine Electronics Technician II November 8 D^nd)erl7 Hydraulics Stq^mnber 13 October 8 November 22 December!^ October 25 November 19 mding 1992 October 11 December b October 22 Nbi^mberl9 De<%mberl7 Septemlnert November 2 Septemlrerl? November 12 October 25 November 19 Novembers Sealift Operations & Maintenance ; 1 AdilltIdiN^^ The following courses are available through the Seafarers Hany Lundeberg SclmoL Please contact the adinissions office for emoIbnern infiDrmation. •'Cwiilsej Oieck-bi Date Completion Date High School Equivalmicy (GED) Adult Basic Education (ABE) English as a Second Language (ESL) All open-^nded (contact admissions office for startims dat^) A> m mm m mm UPGRADING APPLKATIOM Date of Birth Name (UW) Address (CSly) (Fin#) (SUeel) .Telephone _£ (AreaCbde) (Zip Code) (Stale) Deep Sea Memberd Monlh/Day/Year (Middle) Lakes MemberQ Inland Waters MemberE] Pacified If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security # — Book # Seniority Department U.S. Citizen: DVes • No Home Port. Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held n Yes Are you a graduate of the SHLSS trainee program? If yes, which program: from to . Last grade of school completed • Yes Have you attended any SHLSS upgrading courses? If yes, course(s) taken. Have you taken any SHLSS Sealift Operations courses? GYes If yes, how many weeks have you completed?. Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? n Yes GNO Firefighting: G Yes GNO CPR:GYes Date available for training Primary language spoken With this application COPIES of yourdischarges must be submitted showing sufficient time to qualify yourself for the course(s) requested. You also must submit a COPY of each of the following: the first page of your union book indenting your department and seniority, your clinic card the from and back of your Lundeberg School identification card listing die course(s)you have taken and completed TheAdnissions Office WILL NOT scfmbde you until all of the above are received RATING DATE DATEOF VESSEL HELD SHIFFED DISCHARGE Id No GNO G NO SIGNATURE. I am interested in the following courts) checked below or indicated here if not listed DECK AB/Sealift 1st Class PUot Third Mate Radar Observer Unlimited Master Inspected Towing Vessel D Towboat Operator Inland • Celestial Navigation D Simulator Course • • D • • ENGINE QNO • FOWT D QMED—^Any Rating • Variable Speed DC Drive Systems (MarineElectronics) .DATE. D Marine Electrical Maintenance • Pumpmm Maintenance ft Operation Q Refrigeration Systems Maintenance ft Operation • Diesel Engine Technology O Assistant Engineer/CTiief Engineer Motor Vessel • Original 3idEngiiieer Steam or Motor • Refrigerated Containers Advanced Maintenance Q Electro-Hydraulic Systems Q Automation D Hydraulics • Marine Electronics Technician • n • • • STEWARD Assistant Cook Utility <3ook and Baker ChiefCook diief Steward Towboat Inland Cook ALLDK>ARTMENTS • Welding O Lifeboatman (must be taken with anodiercourse) n Oil Si^l Prevention ft Contaimnent D Basic/Advanced ' Rre Fighting • Sealift D Q • O • ADULT EDUCATION DEPARTMENT Adult Basic Education (ABE) Hi^ School Equivalency Program (GED) Developmental Studies (DVS) English as a Second Language (ESL) ABE/ESLUfeboat Preparation —-— COLLEGE PROGRAM D Associate in Alts Degree rtaMonwOI be fM In acconlaiice with IhtidwdBMiit tetteronly If yoopretnt original rtcelpli and succtadWayteMpkte the course. If you have any qaathmt,contact your port afcat brfore dcparliiii for Phiey Pstat RETURN COMPLETED APPUCATION TO: LBiidel>eitD|itraili«C(al«r. P.O. Bon 75, Plmy Flow, MD MC74. *93 W '• I,' -f-: • An- ";V Tn —— ."V k.:'V' . �V" y=^- "T"^ •'• SEAmKERS September 1993 Volume 55, Number 9 Where will you be in December for the holidays? Whether at sea or ashore, Seafarers can send holiday messages to their loved ones through the LOG. See page 17. ^Brotherhood of the Sea^ Comes Through for Seafarers SIU Launch Operators Rescue 11 Boatmen After Collision Sets off Pre-Dawn Blasts Seafarers Stephen Jean and The Manatee and Egmont ar­ Robert Layton were getting rived at approximately the same ready to end a long night of work time, within minutes of the initia shuttling pilots across Tampa Bay blast. While the launches raced to on the launch boat Manatee. the scene, the Ocean 255 began a It was Layton's fourth day series of explosions. The barge with the Tampa Bay Pilots As­ was loaded with 235,000 barrels sociation and his first night duty of jet fuel, oil and gasoline. As Allen explained it, "We with his training partner. The duo were walking down the sidewalk gathered our wits and went about toward the fishing pier at Fort De- looking for survivors. Jean guided the Manatee up­ Spto State Park where the launch was tied when Jean saw an wind and Allen took the Egmont orange glow in the pre-dawn the opposite way to look for any darkness just before 6 a.m. on mariners in the water. About the same time, the Balsa 37 appeared August 10. "What is that?" Jean wondered through the wall of smoke and aloud to Layton. About then, the flames. The Philippine-flagged two heard an explosion and the ship was headed for anchorage. question was answered. As Jean took the Manatee An outbound foreign-flag closer with Layton standing freighter had collided with two watch on the bow, the jet fuel on incoming tug/barges, setting off a the Ocean 255 exploded. "We series of explosions on the were 600 to 700 yards away when second—the SlU-crewed it went," Jean recalled. "It sent a Maritrans tug Seafarer and barge mushroom cloud 2,000 feet in the Ocean 255. air. I thought all the windows on Jean was dispatching the my boat would shatter." association's night launches AP by Huy Nguyen (The St. Petersburg nrnes) Gap in Flames SIU members I ten Jean shoved off from the pier in the bottom right to rescue the which are operated by SIU mem­ Inunediately after the blast, ?an 255burning in Tampa Bay. bers. He knew Michael Allen Layton spotted three glow-sticks crew of the tug Seafarer and barge was standing by on the launch shining in the water. Jean lad the strength to swim beyond Guard is continuing its investiga­ flames and heat, salvage crews Egmont near the Egmont Key maneuvered closer and the two the flames, severd were not able tion. However, news reports im­ could not uncouple the tug lighthouse to pick up the pilot began rescuing the crew of the o climb aboard the boat. Jean ^d mediately following the accident Seafarer from the barge until the aboard the freighter Balsa 37. Layton provided the extra hands stated the Balsa 37, a 400-foot day after the accident. Seafarer. "I knew there were three ships freighter, was outbound from Port Allen, 24, said he had been "As we got the first three, we that brought them to safety. in the area and there was trouble," saw more swimming toward us," All were exhausted, Jean said, Manatee when it struck the non­ part of search-and-rescue mis­ Jean told a reporter for the Jean said. "All of the water was )ut no one was seriously injured. union Capf. Fred Bouchard with sions when he was a member of Seafarers LOG. on fire; jet fuel was everywhere. Once he verified the entire crew Barge B155 and the Seafarer with the Coast Guard. "1 had helped Heard Anxious Voices But there was this gap in the lad been picked up, he called the barge Ocean 255. Only the crew with small boat fires, but notldng Jean radioed die Coast Guard flames at the stern [of the Coast Guard as well as Allen on of the Seafarer was forced to like this," noted the three-year veteran with the pilots. that an accident occurred before Seafarer]. It was like God opened the Egmont and set sail for Eg­ abandon ship. mont Key to provide the crew of The Balsa 37 was run aground The 38-year-old Jean grew up he and Layton raced down the it up to let them out. Otherwise, after it began taking on water. The the Seafarer with warmth and on nearby St. Petersburg Beach. fishing pier to the Manatee. they would have been trapped and shelter until medical help ar­ Bouchard came to rest a little He sailed as a commercial fisher­ Meanwhile, Allen said he heard burned to death." rived. more than a mile inbound from man for 15 years before signing Jean and Layton rescued all 11 "urgency in the voices" between the collision with the barge leak­ on with the pilots association just two boats on the radio and looked members aboard the Seafarer, in­ investigation Continues ing No. 6 ftiel oil, which was Con­ over two-and-a-half years ago. up to see the first explosion. Like cluding a 10-year-old boy who tained before it damaged an The cause of the accident has "That was a first for me and Jean and Layton, Allen took off was sailing with his father, the immediately for the scene. tug's engineer. While all of them not been released as the Coast environmentally sensitive area. plenty to last me my lifetime," he The Ocean 255 was allowed to said. "But if someone is in the bum out near Fort DeSoto Park. water, you go get them. I'd expect Because of the intensity of the the same if 1 was there." Help Locate This Missing Miiid The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children has asked the Seafarers International Union to assist them in locating Amanda Marie Escobedo. AP by Peter Cosgrove The Philippine-flagged Balsa 37can be seen to the right below the smoke pouring from the tug Seafarer and barge Ocean 255 following a collision in Tampa Bay on August 10. All 11 crewmeml)ers from the tug/barge were plucked from the water by SlU-crewed pilot's launch Manatee. Amanda Marie Escobedo The child was abducted by her non-custodial mother, Arlene Renea Ervin, on August 23,1991 from Olympia, Wash. A felony warrant for custodial interference has been issued in her name. Amanda Escobedo was six years old at the time of her disappearance. The brownhaired, brown-eyed girl was 4 feet tall and weighed 50 pounds. Anyone having information on the whereabouts of Amanda Marie Escobedo should con­ tact the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children at (800) 843-5678 or the Miss­ ing Persons Unit of the Renton (Wash.) Police Department at (206)277-6236. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 1990-1999 Description An account of the resource Volumes LII-LXI Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993; Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource September 1993 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES SENATE PANEL TOLD TAT RE-FLAGGING WILL COST NATION MORE THAN DOLLARS 3-YEAR STANDARD PACT ANNOUNCED MEDICAL COVERAGE EXTENDED FOR DEPENDENTS OF SEAFARERS MONTHLY PENSION PAYMENT CAP LIFTED AMO PRESIDENT RAYMOND MCKAY DIES INLAND SHIPPING RESUMES ON THE MISSISSIPPI RIVER BOATMEN KEEP SHARP WATCH FOR CHANGING CONDITIONS FOREIGN-FLAG INTERESTS PUSH THEIR AGENDA THROUGH GORE ‘REINVENT GOVT’ GROUP NEW RECERTIFIED STEWARDS: UPGRADING IS THE WAY TO GO PPO PROVIDES HEALTH CARE SERVICES FOR NEW BEDFORD AREA SEAFARERS CLINTON TO UNVEIL HEALTH PLAN THIS MONTH MARITRANS SEAFARERS EARN TANKERMAN ENDORSEMENT EXPRESS MARINE BOATMEN COMPLETE SPECIAL COURSES BOSUN DUBS AMERICAN MARINER’S HISTORIC GRAIN VOYAGE ‘FANTASTIC’ PINEY POINT GRADUATE SAVES LIFE OF MARINER SEAFARERS STAY ON-THE-GO ABOARD AMERICAN REPUBLIC AMO PRESIDENT RAY MCKAY PASSES AWAY MCKAY’S LEGACY INCLUDES SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING AND NAVIGATION SIU LAUNCH OPERATORS RESCUE 11 BOATMEN AFTER COLLISION SETS OFF PRE-DAWN BLASTS Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 09/01/1993 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 55, No. 9 1993 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/e292809428653ca6dca8344e8aaf2e03.PDF e52bf181fcdde32369dc5a99350aa80e PDF Text Text . .^r-I :•'• -yv... • i - r' 'Ir# OFUCIAL ORGAN OF THE SiAFARIRS INTERNATIONAL UNION • ATIAWTIC GUIF, LAKK AND INUND WATERS DISTRIG • AFKIO .i^W: •V Volume 55, Number 8 August 1993 m': ^ NAFTA Myth A Norwegian second registry vessel's loss of a highly dangerous cargo has touched off a bizarre sequence of events revealing the Mexican government's failure to protect the environment and labor standards. ••• :''5/s'iT' .vyi '•'&•'• ' O0P>^>,O;tJ ^ HCQ </i :;£;n (/>«"• iXJ -» HOO iy*--)2Z<y* 'vJlH^ </)"[> -omn-n.Z OH'—-H Mexican fishermen observe stricicen Betula which iies on its side, empty of its suifuric acid cargo. Reflagging Postponed AFL-CIO Pushes for Reform House Authorizes 1994 Funding For Maritime Agency Lawmakers Set Te Address Health Care Crisis Pages •' BeumaivReuters Pages ^ - Inland Shipping W" /ji. Delta Queen Takes Over By Giant Flood AHG Vessels 1^^ USNS Wilkes' Rescue Mission Is Flawless PaS»4 i-., ,r\ '• �AUGUST1993 SEAFARERS LOG President's Report Behind the Fancy Words AFL-CIO Presses for Reform MealBlr Care Crisie to Top Lawmakas'Agomla thk Fall There has been a big push on now and for the past couple of years to bring about a North American Free Trade Agreement. The an American household. The nation's policy-makers Medicare to 60. American lab^or movement is very concerned about this trade deal, The health care crisis has In presenting its proposals to will turn their attention to the as Seafarers will recall from reading the taken its toll on relations between policy-makers, the AJT.-CIO has Seafarers LOG and discussions at union meet­ nation's health care crisis next unions and companies. In 1990, noted that the U.S. system of month when President Bill Clin ings. The AFL-CIO and its affiliated unions an unprecedented 55 percent of health care in grossly unfair. "It believe the goverament-feanctioned opening of ton presents to Congress his plan strikes were provoked by punishes employers who provide for reforming the m^cal services Mexico to U.S. businesses will bring about an health insurance to their workers management demands for severe exodus of American companies from the U.S., system of the United States. by forcing them to, in effect, sub­ reductions in medical benefit The attention of lawmakers to exporting hundreds of thousands of American sidize the health care of those levels or elimination of health this issue is critical to the millions jobs to Mexico. The trade deal will formalize who are employed by firms that coverage. of working Americans who cur­ an arrangement that allows U.S. companies seek a competitive advantage by To cope with the runaway rently bear the brunt of a health to move to a source of cheap labor and to a refusing to provide such coverage," care system riddled with out-ofcosts of medical care, unions and nation with very few costly environmental control costs, to the 36 million stated AFL-CIO Department of the health care providers they Michael Sacco regulations. Americans who have no medica Employee Benefits Director Karen work with are implementing a Because it stands to gain immeasurably insurance—whether or not they Ignagni in comments to a congres- number of measures designed to from a transfer of American jobs and manufacturing capability to are working, and to the millions siond panel. keep expenses in check while Mexico, the Mexican government is pulling out the stops in a cam­ of senior citizens who retired with maintaining benefit levels. paign to convince the American Congress to sign off on NAFTA. Inefficient U.S. System promises of life-long health Among the programs used are The Mexican government has had all sorts of glossy brochures The current system "is replete benefits only to find those preferred provider organizations printed up which boast of Mexico's commitment to the environ­ with inefficiencies that have programs suddenly terminated by forced (PPOs) in which a single hospital ment. The slick material, printed on green and sky-blue recycled costs to rise sharply, and company executives who say or clinic is designated as the paper, is aimed at putting aside the fears of elected officials and millions of Americans who are American voters that a trade deal with Mexico is a bad deal for the they can no longer afford the ex­ fortunate enough to be covered by primary care giver, a utilization pense. review process in which permis­ environment. These fears are founded on the fact that the few The administration plan has health insurance have, as a result, sion must be obtained for a medi­ Mexican environmental regulations are much more lax than those been fashioned by a task force suffered the financial burden of cal treatment, lifetime limits on we have in the U.S. It stands to reason that a trade deal which en­ increased cost-shifting and reduc­ courages factories to move to Mexico, with its lack of regulations, leaded by First Lady Hillary tions in benefits," Ignagni added. the amount oif services received, can result in increased industrial pollution, endangering human life Rodham Clinton which me Studies show the burden of and health maintenance organiza­ throughout the first half of the and natural resources on both sides of the border. skyrocketing health care costs has tions (HMOs) which provide all The U.S. trade unions also have raised questions about how sin­ year. While the task force was at been shifted to America's of a patient's care for a set annual Work fashioning its own recom­ fee and cover little outside its set cere is the Mexican government's devotion to decent labor standr mendations, a variety of bills ad­ workers. Employer after parameters. ards. It has been argued that U.S. businesses may be attracted to employer has instituted systems vocating different approaches to Mexico not only for its low wages but also because Mexican In upcoming issues of the the problem were introduced in requiring co-payments from the workers do not have the same rights as American employees do to company's workers for continu­ LOG, the health care crisis and Congress. organize to make their workplaces more humane and fair. Do ing health coverage or maintain­ the various plans to institute a na­ Complicated Debate Mexican workers have the right to organize and form unions, the ing benefit levels. Deductibles tional system will be discussed. With many health care reform lave been instituted and in­ Next month, the LOG will report right to speak out freely and the right to join together in collective proposals in the hopper, and with creased. The net result is that on the health care reform action? The truth about the Mexican government's commitment to the many constituencies affected by lealth care costs now eat up close proposals which are being con­ environment and to decent labor standards is probably not going to he outcome of the debate— to 10 percent of gross earnings of sidered by lawmakers. be found in the very expensive materials prepared by American receivers of benefits, doctors, public relations firms. The actions of the Mexican government in hospitals, insurance companies, High Health Care Costs the case of the Betula, a sulfuric acid-carrying tanker beached off among others^the deliberations Spell Trouble for Nation in Congress on the future of Mexico's shores, may be closer to the truth. A more detailed ac­ count of this incident appears elsewhere in the LOG. But in brief, lealth care in the United States Studies of the nation's health care system show ominous if the press accounts are correct, Mexican fishermen, believing are expected to be long and com­ trends. What foilows is some of the information put forward in the debate on America's heaith care direction. that their livelihoods were threatened by a spill of acid from a plicated. grounded chemical tanker, put on a demonstration. The Mexican The AFL-CIO, the federation In 1991, more than 35.4 million Americans—or 14.1 percent of the population—had no medical insurance. The number government arrested them. It also was reported in the press that the of national unions in the U.S., today is close to 36 million. Mexican government insisted nothing had been spilled from the intends to represent the concerns of working people and their • Of those who lost health care coverage in the past year, half Norwegian second registry ship, while the salvage company said there was nothing left in the vessel's tanks. Something does not amilies in this debate. For were employed and the remaining ones lost their jobs. square here. decades a proponent of a univer­ The apparent cover-up of environmental concerns and the hush- sal and fair national system of • In 1990, total dollars spent on health care reached $655 billion, 12.2 percent of thenation's GNP, more than any other country up of workers' concerns by Mexican authorities is troubling. The health care, the AFL-CIO has in the developed world. Betula incident demonstrates that the American labor movement called on lawmakers to enact a has real cause for worry when it comes to a trade deal between the "bold legislative solution." • On a per capita basis, the United States spends more on governments of Mexico and the United States. It also shows that While not taking a stand on health care than any of its primary trading partners—40 per­ cent more than Canada, 90 percent more than Germany and all the fancy materials and studies put out by those who stand to one specific proposd put forward 125 percent more than Japan. gain substantially from NAFTA do not necessarily represent a by any representative of the ad­ good faith account of the American people's—or Mexican ministration or Congress, the • Since 1970, total health care expenditures in the U.S. have people's—interests. AFL-CIO is working to ensure gone up 60 percent faster than inflation. If the trend continues, that any program adopted by law­ by the year 2000 total health-related spending in the U.S. will Educational Opportunities makers does the following: reach $1.6 trillion per year. Each year scholarships are awarded by the Seafarers to three • Establish a nationd com­ the 1980s, health costs for households increased from 6 SIU members and four sons, daughters or spouses of SIU mem­ mission composed of consumers, • In rcent to 9 percent of gross earnings. For people over 65, bers. I urge any Seafarer or fomily member of a Seafarer who abor, management, govemment alth care on average accounts for 11 percent of annual plans to attend an institution of higher leaming to apply for a and providers to administer a household expenses. scholarship. single national cost containment Applications for the scholarships must be received by April 15, >rogram. This group would be • In 1990,55 percent of all strikes by workers were related to health care issues. 1994, and the names of those who win the awards will ^ an­ charged with limiting the rate of nounced in May of that year. There are many forms and test scores rowth of health care expendi­ • For companies with less than 1,000 employees, the cost of that must accompany each application, so it is not too early to start tures. health care rose an average 17.3 percent in 1991. compiling a submission. Yes, it can take some time to put all the • Outline a core benefit Soui^: Physldans for a NationalHealth Program. Public Citizen, Departmentof HealthandHuman material together. But a $15,000 four-year scholarship or a $6,000 package to which all Americans Services, Hewitt Associatee.AFL-CaO.BurMu of Labw Statistics. two-year scholarship can be well worth the effort! are entitled, no matter their health status, state of residence or employment history. For those August 1993 Volume 55. Number 8 not in the workforce, a single ederal program should be set up The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 0160-2047) is published to cover the unemployed. monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, • Develop ways in which Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District; AFL-CIO; 5201 waste, red tape and unnecessary Negotiations still are under would not be rushed. Auth Way; Camp Springs, Md. 20746. Telephone (301) way as the Seafarers LOG goes to The negotiations began aperwork can be reduced by 899-0675. Second-class postage paid at MSC Prince >ress between the SIU and its several months ago between the emanding standardized claim Georges, Md. 20790-9998 and at additional mailing orms, a uniform health care in- contracted operators that are sig- SIU and the American Maritime offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the brmation system, practice nators for new standard Association, a group of Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, Md. guidelines for physicians and a Teightship and tanker agree­ shipowners who contract with the 20746. national strategy to reform the ments to replace those that were union to provide unlicensed Communications Department Director aiid Editor, Jes­ way in which malpractice dis­ to expire June 15. mariners for their vessels. sica Smith; Managing Editor, Daniel Duncan; Associate putes are handled. The union and the companies SIU Vice Presidoit Contracts Editors, Jordan Biscardo and Corrina Christensen; As­ agreed last month to extend the Augie Tellez noted the sessions are • Help solve the retiree sociate Editor/Production, Deborah A Hirtes; Art, Bill lealth care benefit crisis by old pacts, ratified in June 1990, proceeding well and promised to Brower. owering the age of eligibility for until August 15 in order that talks keep the membership informed. Contract Talks Continue For Freightships/Tankers �v-'-i 'W'- i'' - rfe^Siisi^'asasSejisis?^^ - AUGUST 1993 SEAFARERS LOG 'VSSf-' 3 Hearings Reveal Uncertainty Over Maritime Peiicy Charies T. Mayden, Piasa Photographic Sen., Inc. The Alton Belle and Alton Belle Landing have become an island unto themselves, with water reachin 40 feet, an all-time high level. Rood Maud S^iplttg A congressjpnal hearing called to consider maritime legis­ lation underscored the deep frustration held by meml)ers of Congress and two of the subcommittee's witnesses over the apparent inactivity regarding a program for U.S.-flag shipping. Members of the House Mer­ chant Marine Subcommittee ex­ pressed dissatisfaction over the failure of witnesses from the departments of Transportation and Defense to offer specifics when quest io n e d T ho s e providing testimony on behalf of the administra­ tion said they have been thwarted in William Lipinski efforts to present a program because the Maritime Administrator has not been con­ firmed by the Senate. Subcommittee Chairman Wil­ liam Lipinski (D-Ill.) called the July 20 hearing on one aspect of the maritime revitalization pro­ gram offered by House Merchant Marine and Fisheries Committee Chairman Gerry Studds and Rep­ resentatives Jack Fields (RTexas) and Herbert Bateman (R-Va.) as well as Lipinski. The program, which was presented May 19 and consists of four pieces of legislation, is designed to offer and fund a 10-year, $1.9 billion subsidy program for U.S.flag ship operators and provide tax reform measures regarding these vessels. The package was introduced after the Clinton administration announced May 12 it would not propose any maritime revitaliza­ tion legislation before a Defense Department study on the need of the U.S. merchant marine for sealift is released in August. On June 28, Sea-Land and American President Lines (APL) an­ nounced they would seek permission from the Maritime Administration (MarAd) to reflag 20 of their U.S.-flagged ves­ sels. The companies had been threatening since early 1992 to take such action if no maritime policy was enacted. Called to testify on the Maritime Security and Competi­ tiveness Act (H.R. 2151) were Acting Maritime Administrator Continued on paged Regular river operations may seen any increased activities. locks reopen. not return to the Mississippi River "There does not appear to be The six vessels that are still in and its tributaries until fall as rain any increase in shipments of grain operation are the Dick Conerly, continued to fall in the upper mid- or coal since the flooding began, Jim Ludwig, Midland, Omega, western United States. noted Gordon Hall, vice presi­ J.N. Phillips and the Eastern Star. Record crests were expected dent/treasurer for the Lakes Car­ Sigler said Orgulf operations to hit Alton, 111., St. Louis and riers Association in Cleveland. may not get back to normal before other river towns in early August. The association monitors the traf­ late September. The Coast Guard and Army fic and loads carried by vessels on "This is even a tentative guess Corps of Engineers continue to the Great Lakes. If the rain doesn't quit, the locks prohibit any commercial boating "We have not been able to will never open up before the end activities on the upper Mississip­ detect any changes. And with all of summer for normal operations pi as well as the Missouri and of the flooding and bridges being to resume," the port agent stated Illinois rivers. washed out, it is hard to believe Paddlewheelers Keep Rolling While some of the locks which the railroads can handle it either. The SlU-contracted Delta handle barge traffic on the upper Hall added. Queen Steamboat Company Mississippi have reopened in plans to keep all operations flow­ Minnesota and northern Iowa, Seafarers in Alton ing despite the record high water tugs and barges still are not. able marks being set on the upper Mis­ Tackle High Waters. to transport grain, coal and other sissippi. Page 28 materials downriver. At the same The company re-routed two time, the navigable portion of the cruises on the big paddlewheeler Meanwhile, the victims along Mississippi Queen, replacing the Missouri River has been shut down between St. Louis and the banks of the rivers include St. Louis to St. Paul, Minn, and Sioux City, Iowa. That river may Seafarers who have lost their the St. Paul to St. Louis itineraries not reopen to traffic until late homes. More than a dozen SIU with Chattanooga, Tenn. to St. September, according to the members have homes under Louis voyages. The other SIUU.S. Senator Barbara in June that water. Army Corps of Engineers. crewed vessel. Delta Queen, has Mikulski (D-Md.) has asked the they were St. Louis Port Agent Joe Sigler President Bill Clinton has been unaffected by the river White House to verify informa­ going to reported receiving several calls asked Congress to grant up to $4 closure. Its cruises were tion she has received that the apply to the about Seafarers who work aboard billion in flood relief to the people scheduled for the Ohio and Cum­ Department of Defense advised Maritime and businesses affected by what Orgulf tugs losing their homes. berland Rivers during July. Sea-Land and American Presi­ Administra­ "So far, we have confirmed one, is being known as the "Great Below Cairo, the Mississippi dent Lines (APL) to replace their tion to re-flag but many people cannot be Flood of 1993." The House of widens out allowing faster disper­ U.S. flags with a flag of con­ 20 of their reached because ttiey have moved Representatives had passed a sion of the water through natural vessels. The $2.7 billion relief package in late and phone lines are down," he means such as evaporation. The venience from the Marshrdl Is­ companies lands. July, which the Senate was ex­ noted. Army Corps of Engineers also Sen. Mikulski had In a July 1 letter addressed to been pected to address in early August. controls the lower river and, if President Bill Clinton, the long­ threatening Orgulf Boats Tie Up Despite the lack of barge traf­ necessary, can channel as much A total of six Orgulf boats are as 30 percent of the water through time supporter of the U.S.-flag to do so since last year unless a fic on the Mississippi since flood­ merchant fleet stated she was "not maritime revitalization program ing began in May, Great Lakes still running the lower Mississip­ Continued on page 8 re-elected... tO see the U.S. mer­ became law. In May, members of shipping companies have not pi while 15 are tied up until the chant marine scuttled." She asked the House Merchant Marine and the president to support a Fisheries Committee introduced a maritime revitalization program, revitalization package through a calling it a "vital national security series of four bills. The box below contains the issue." text of Mikulski's letter: Sea-Land and APLannounced tion program. The House of Rep­ The House of Representatives U.S.-flag ships. approved a $621 million The amendment, offered by resentatives already is consider­ Dear Mr. President: I am writing to express my outrage and deep dismay at reports authorization bill to run the House Merchant Marine and ing a four-bill package that includes a lO-ye^, $1.9 billion that the two largest American-flag shipping companies have Maritime Administration Fisheries Chairman Gerry Studds subsidy program for vessels in­ decided to remove a number of their vesselsfrom the United States (MarAd) during Fiscal Year (D-Mass.), stated, "The Secretary volved in a maritime security flag1994. of Transportation may not ap­ fleet program as well as loan I was not re-elected to the United States Senate last November Added to the bill during debate prove the transfer of a Unit^ guarantees and incentives for to see the U.S. merchant marine scuttled by wonks and green on the House floor was an SIU- States-documented oceangoing U.S. shipyards. eyeshade types in the White House and the Pentagon. I believe our backed amendment that prohibits merchant vessel that is of 3,(X)0 The chairman added that Con­ national security depends upon our moving a maritime revitaliza­ the federal agency from granting gross tons or more (or that type of gress is "working as hard as we tion bill in this session of the Congress to keep our U.S.-flag fleet any re-flagging requests through a vessel the last documentation of can to come up with a com­ sailing. We need leadership from the White House on this vital the end of 1994. The amendment which was under the laws of the prehensive proposal. By the end national security issue. United States) to a foreign of next year, we will know passed by a vote of 388 to 41. lam informed that the Pentagon has given advice to two major registry under section 9(c) of the whether we will have U.S.-flag shipping companies to re-flag their ships with the Marshall IsThe MarAd bill includes funds to operate the agency, which is Shipping Act of 1916, as vessels on the high seas and a U.S. lands. The crews on these ships will come from all over the world. charged with promoting, amended, through December 31, shipyard capability to build those I appreciate our treaty agreements with our friends in foreign vessels." countries, but I lack confidence that foreign nationals will have developing and maintaining the 1994." Joining him in support of the the same commitment to place their lives on the line, if necessary, 'Buys Time' U,S. merchant fleet. The legisla­ amendment was Representative that our U.S. merchant marine have. tion, which now goes to the In presenting the amendment, William Lipinski (D-Ill.), the You have moved slowly and deliberately on your review of Senate for consideration, also Studds told his fellow repre­ chairman of the Merchant Marine maritime policy—I hope the administration will not move quickly provides funds to keep the Ready sentatives he was offering the Subcommittee. "It is vital that at now in the dismantling of the U.S.-flag fleet. Reserve Force vessels in a state of legislation "to buy all of us time a time when we are trying to I look forward to your response. readiness, for shipbuilding loan — the president, the secretary of preserve our maritime industry Sincerely, guarantees and for the operating transportation. Congress" to [s] Barbara A. Mikulski Contuiuedon page 8 differential subsidies for some complete a maritime revitaliza- ;..7 • •¥-' .> - '-yl. 1 •• •'.•.-I • im- Sen. Mikulski Seeks MariUme Commitment Amendment to Delay Re-Flaesing Adopted House Approves '94 MarAd Bill •••-,.g0''f>: " r 'v , , -- r •r'V'Vf-Vv-% •a !/• I'• • •\ . -a. -r 't �4 AUGUST 1993 SEAFARERS LOG Delta Queen Takes Over Operations nendence and Constitution The jobs of SIU crewmembers sailing aboard the U.S.-flag pas­ senger ships Independence and Constitution are secure following a federal bankruptcy court's ap­ proval of the takeover of finan­ cially troubled American Hawaii Cruises by the Delta Queen Steamboat Company of New Orleans. The SlU-crewed Constitution {abOMe) and Independence (below) now The Honolulu-based court anare being operated by the Delta Queen Steamboat Company follow- nounced its decision on July 28. Ing a decision last month In federal bankruptcy court. Piliit Delta Queen, an SlU-contracted company which operates two paddlewheel steamboats on the Mississippi River and its tributaries, presented the only bid on the cruise ships and the busi­ ness associated with them. "We were successful in main­ taining these jobs for our mem­ bership," noted Augie Tellez, SIU vice president for contracts. "This insures that the Con­ stitution and Independence will continue running for years to come," added Tom Fay, SIU port agent in Honolulu. Seafarers who sail aboard the cruise ships held meetings on the Constitution and Independence on July 29 and at the Honolulu hall on July 30 to vote on a new seven-year pact with the Delta Queen subsidiary. Last month. Judge Lloyd King granted interim management of the two cruise ships to Delta Queen pending his decision. The judge had set a July 21 deadline for competing bids or any objec­ tions to Delta Queen, but none was received. The new company will be called Great Hawaiian Cruise Line, Inc. Delta Queen has an­ nounced its intentions to renovate both ships and upscale the pas­ senger cabins. "This transaction provides both Delta Queen and American Hawaii with significant oppor­ tunities for growth," stated S. Cody Engle, chairman of Delta Queen. "For Delta Queen, it rep­ resents ah opportunity® to almost more than triple the company's passenger capacity while remain­ ing focused on the business we know best. For American Hawaii, it represents a means of sustain­ ing and improving a unique product and franchise in the world's premier vacation destina­ tion." In June, Delta Queen had a steel-cutting ceremony as it began construction for its third riverboat, the American Queen, which is expected to start sailing by April 1995. She will join a fleet already served by the SIUcrewed Delta Queen and Missis­ sippi Queen. Inland Waterways Fuel TaxWithdrawn A proposed 50-cent-a-gallon inland waterways fuel tax has been withdrawn from considera­ tion by House and Senate con­ ferees who are negotiating the Clinton administration's economic policy. Early reports from the con­ ference stated the tax was removed in favor of increasing the national sales tax oh gasoline. The SIU, along with other maritime interests and energy users, lobbied heavily against the idea, stating the tax was an unfair burden on the inland waterways industry. The inland waterways tax was passed by the House of Repre­ sentatives as one means of lower­ ing the nation's deficit. Original estimates for the tax noted nearly $500 million could be collected over a five-year period. In its original deficit-reduction package, the House also ap­ proved a tax based on the energy content of fuel, known as British thermal units (Btu). The Btu tax was part of the Clinton administration's request to reduce the deficit by $500 billion. As with the inland tax, the SIU and others were successful in lob­ bying the Senate to have the Btu tax removed from consideration. Instead, the Senate approved a 4.3-cent-a-gallon tax on gasoline. Because of the differences in the House and Senate versions of the legislation, a conference com­ mittee consisting of members from both bodies has been meet­ ing since mid-July to iron out the differences. As the Seafarers LOG was going to press, reports from Capitol Hill stated the conferees were trying to settle on a tax of between 6 and 7 cents per gallon. , ; • I- : IP. The committee is expected to an­ nounce its proposal in early August. Despite the indications that both the inland waterways and Btu taxes are dead, the SIU plans to monitor the negotiations for other ideas that may affect mem­ bership and maritime. Under the rules of a conference committee, the representatives and senators may pass all of what the House approved (which amounted to $72 billion in tax increases), all of what the Senate approved (es­ timated at a $23 billion increase), parts of either or nothing from them and create its own funding formula. None of the ideas is officially excluded fi-om consideration until the House and Senate have ap­ proved the final package, then the president signs it. Also under consideration by the conference committee mem­ bers are increases in income taxes for those individuals who make more than $115,000 a year and couples earning $140,000 an­ nually, a hike in the top corporate Houston Port Agent Jim McGee (right) recently spoke with Treasury tax rates, taxes on social security Secretary Lloyd Bentsen about the needs of maritime In the Clinton administration's deficit reduction program. benefits and much more. Federal Court Announces User Fee Lawsuit Schedule A federal court in Washington has released the pretrial schedule for action concerning a lawsuit filed by the SIU, four other maritime labor unions and five individual mariners against the U.S. Coast Guard and the secretary of transportation to stop collecting fees on merchant marine documents (z-cards). The suit, filed April 15, claims the "work tax," as it has been called because mariners are un­ able to work without one, is un­ constitutional and was calculated incorrectly by the federal agency. Besides the Seafarers, the other unions joining in the lawsuit which has been filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia are the Unlicensed Division of District No. 1 Marine Beneficial Association/National Maritime Union, District No. 1Pacific Coast District Marine Engineers' Beneficial Associa­ tion, the American Maritime Of­ ficers District 2 MEBA and the International Organization of Masters, Mates and Pilots. Also joining in the fight are the Sailors' Union of the Pacific and the Marine Firemen's Union, both of which are affiliated with the Seafarers. The five individual mariners who are plaintiffs against the Coast Guard and Transportation Secretary Federico Pena include Anthony Primeaux, William H. Mulcahy, John Paul Hoskins, James C. Oliver and Perry O. Lawrence. Exchange Information Lawyers on both the maritime and government sides will have until September 23 to exchange information relating to the suit. This process, known as dis­ covery, allows both parties to know what will be involved in the case. Attorneys representing the unions and mariners already have asked the federal agencies in­ volved for any records, com­ ments received and other information that were used to for­ mulate the user fee on merchant marine ddcuments. Both parties in the suit then will have until October 22 to file for a summary judgment. This procedure is used when all the f^acts can be gathered on paper and witnesses are not needed to testify in a trial in order for the judge to make a decision. Legal briefs are prepared by attorneys for both sides explain­ ing the facts and the legal theories behind their reasoning of how the case should be decided. In most cases, lawyers for one of the two sides will ask for the case to be decided by summary judgment, but judges can notify the attorneys that such a request is expected. If a case is decided by sum­ mary judgment, a decision usual­ ly comes from the judge within six months. However, there is no time limit as to when a judge must announce the decision. Some cases have waited more than a year before the judge's ruling was declared. Should a summary judgment not be used in the work tax case, the court then would set a date for atrial. Argue Against Tax By seeking to declare the user fee unconstitutional, the unions and mariners argued that only Congress can pass a tax and the legislative body caimot transfer that authority to another branch of the government. The user fee originated in the 1990 Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act. In­ cluded in that legislation was the, elimination of an 1886 statute that prevented the Coast Guard from collecting fees for licenses and certain shipboard positions. The suit contends the reason for removing the ban to collect fees on merchant documents was to raise money to reduce the deficit. The plaintiffs also claim the Coast Guard used inaccurate information in establishing fee levels. Although the Department of Transportation agency an­ nounced its fee schedule on March 19, it did not begin collect­ ing the work tax until April 19. The fees ranged from $35 for a duplicate z-card, license or cer­ tificate of registry to $272 for an upper level license. An ordinary seaman upgrad­ ing to able bodied seaman, for example, would have to pay $135 for a new document—$60 for an evaluation fee, $40 for an ex­ amination fee and $35 for an up­ dated z-card. �.-v. ..^->irr:j» Is • , I tM.. AUGUST1993 SEAFARERS lOG 5 ' fir: NIS'Registered Betula Grounded l: •S- Mexico's iiew-Foumi Green image Centradided by its Response To Suifuric Acid-Leaicing Ship '•:'<• • ••' -'"•V" ' Bizarre responses from the newspaper reporters that the Protesting the loss of a fishing Mexican government to claims o; Betula"s tanks were empty. Sal­ ground and their related incomes, sulfuric acid leakage from a vage workers found the deck the fishermen's cooperative grounded Norwegian seconc hatches of the 15 acid-carrying demonstrated on July 8, attempt­ registry vessel have raised anew tanks were open. ing to blockade the port and questions about Mexico's com "In my opinion there ain't demanding compensation. The mitment to high environmenta nothing there," Roy Dodgen of Mexican Navy (which has Coastand labor standards proposed as Titan Maritime Industries told the Guard-like functions) arrested 28 part of a package involving a New York Times as he looked at of the fishermen and issued or­ North American Free Trade the ship. Lloyd's List T&pori&d that ders for the arrest of 525 others Agreement (NAFTA). Beth Christ at Titan's Rorida of­ according to information appear­ The trade deal between the fice said, "All the sulfuric acid is ing in Lloyd'sList supplied by the governments of Mexico, the out of the vessel." environmental group Green­ United States and Canada was Salvage workers and repre­ peace. At the end of July, three negotiated by the Bush ad­ sentatives of the insurance com­ remain in jail, said a spokesman ministration and now claims the pany involved at the site of the for the Mexican Tourism Hotline. support of President Clinton. Bui shipwreck speculated that the In response to inquiries as to several congressmen have voicec ship, which had been beached on whether any government funds Crewmembers of the Eli Marie display "V" for victory and thumbs up doubts about the trade pact, citing June 29 and then struck by Hur­ existed in Mexico to compensate after hearing the shipping company would pay their back wages and the potential mass loss o ricane Calvin on July 6 and 7, victims of environment^ acci­ settle other grievances following a three-day strike in Baltimore. American jobs as U.S. factories becoming partially sunk, had lost dents, the spokesman for the flee south of the border to a land its acid cargo during the storm Mexican Tourism Hotline said he of cheaper, more exploitable and had dissipated in the sea. was not sure. labor and less stringent environ­ Fewer than 30 tons of sulfuric Lack of Information mental and safety and health acid were left in the hold, salvage The Mexican Tourism Hotline regulations. workers reported to Lloyd's List. spokesman was contacted as a To go into effect, NAFTA These July 13 statements of result of a press inquiry made to must be accepted by Congress. To salvage company and insurance the Embassy of Mexico in After three months of no pay After Morris asked about the food make the trade scheme more officials contradicted a statement Washington, D.C. The embassy and meals consisting only of rice on board, the captain blew up palatable to legislators, the ad­ issued on July 11 by the Mexican referred the press call to the and eggs, a Filipino-Indonesian stating, "What are you people in ministration and the Mexican Interior Ministry, a government Mexican Tourism Hotline. Press crew aboard a Norwegian second the United States concerned government are negotiating side department usually charged with calls placed directly to the press registry (NIS) vessel conducted a about their food, they have rice agreements on labor standards internal police and security mat­ attache of the Mexican embassy three-day strike for better condi­ and eggs!" ters. That agency said there had made by a Seafarers LOG and environmental concerns. tions after the bulker docked in At the same time, the Mexican been no leakage of sulfuric acid. reporter were not returned. No Funds Recdved Baltimore. Meanwhile, the third engineer government is spending millions Fishermen Arrested The Mexican Tourism Hotline SIU Representative Edd Mor­ had the chance to contact his of dollars on public relations ex­ Despite the Mexican spokesman said the Betula situa­ ris, who also serves as an Interna­ family in the Philippines, only to perts and sleek materials to government's assertions that tion had been contained by the tional Transport Workers discover that none of the money present an image of a nation dedi­ diere was no spillage of sulfuric Mexican government and that Federation (ITF) inspector, he sent home had been received. cated to the highest environmen­ acid, a local fishermen's coopera­ beaches frequented by tourists helped negotiate a settlement for The radio office displayed proof tal and labor standards. tive insists on the contraiy. They had not been in any way affected the 17 Filipino and three In­ that the funds had been wired.Mor­ Actions Belie Image point to dead turtles, a dead by the shipwreck. He said he had donesian crewmembers aboard ris contacted the manning agency pelican and dead fish as proof. no statement from the Mexican The June 29 grounding of the the Eli Marie, a bulk carrier offices in both Manila and its home Betula, a 1970 built, 10,033 dwt They also point to chemical bums government on the situation operated by Norway-based Gaard office in Singapore about the third chemical tanker, off the shore of suffered by their members who which he could issue to the press Shipping. engineer's request its Michoacan state last month, had ventured into waters near the and that he was not allowed to (By using the NIS, the Nor­ Although representatives in provided the Mexican govern­ beached Beru/a. release the one piece of informa­ wegian International Shipping both offices originally stated they ment an opportunity to live up to The government, on the other tion he had been sent from the registry, a company is allowed to had not received the telex, they its newly found green image. hand, says tests around the Betula Mexican Maritime Secretaiy. fly the flag of this traditional later said the wire was received The spokesman said he was Instead, the Mexican of sea water reveal normal maritime nation. However, the but they would not pass the government's response has been acidity. But Mexican authorities not sure whether there was a company operates under runaway money to the family because they shrouded in mysteiy. It insists the only ^gan testing 10 days after Mexican govemment investiga­ conditions such as using crew­ had not received any funds from sulfuric acid did not spill in the the ship ran aground off the tion under way of the accident members from anywhere around the company. However, a spokesman for the face of empty tanks. Its embassy country's Pacific coast. the world, avoiding taxes and The crew stopped work on in Washington, D.C. refers all Despite its statements that no Betula's operating company said bypassing maritime regulations.) July 10 to protest working condi­ press inquiries to the Mexican sulfuric acid had been spilled, the the Norwegian Maritime Direc­ Inhumane Treatment tions aboard the vessel. By the Tourism Hotline, which turns out Mexican government closed the torate has completed an inves­ tigation of the incident. Not only was food scarce on following day, they were on strike to be a public relations agency in area to fishing. the ship, but crewmembers with picket signs displayed on the Chicago. And its newly created reported inhumane treatment. dock and gangway. Morris con­ office of the attorney general for The third engineer, for example, tinued to make calls to the man­ the environment has had nothing discovered his mother was near ning agency, the Norwegian to do with the incident, among death and asked the captain for consul, the Philippine consul and other peculiar actions. permission to fly to the Philip­ others to resolveffiie situation. According to accounts in the pines to be> with her. He was Washington Post and the New Crew Wins Strike turned down. A few days later, York Times, the Mexican govern­ By July 12, Morris had con­ the third engineer found out his ment denied that the Betula, firmed with the shipping com­ mother had died. managed by Rotterdam-based pany that all claims would be paid Offloading Delayed through the manning agency in Alendal Tankers BV, had spilled • ;v5-'; ••-vv,',"'.;.if''.',,;,;'V any of the more than 4,000 tons of When the vessel arrived in Manila. An agreement between sulfuric acid which remained in Baltimore on June 18, the Eli the crew and the captain was Marie did not dock until July 7 at drafted and signed. Among the its stainless steel tanks when the Domino Sugar. During this time items agreed to in the document ship was first towed to sea. The decision of the Lazaro in the Chesapeake Bay, no shore were salaries and allotments Cardenas port authorities to take leave was granted. Crewmembers would be paid on time, a welfare the vessel to sea was made after asked to be paid or at least receive fund should be utilized, enough the chemical had leaked into one a draw, which the Norwegian provisions should be kept on of the pumprooms during offcaptain denied. After the ship first board the ship, and the captain floading operations on June 25. dropped anchor, the third en­ and chief engineer would not The vessel was towed by a harbor gineer took his $500 emergency harass the crew. tug, a line broke, the Betula The document was signed by cash and asked the radio officer to drifted and later came aground on have it wired through the man­ all the crew and officers and wit­ a sandbar 20 kilometers north of ning agency to his family to help nessed by Morris and a Baltimore Lazaro Cardenas. shipping agent representing the pay for his mother's burial. After the crew contacted Mor­ vessel owners. Tanks Mysteriously Empty AP by Joe Cavaretta Offloading of the sugar ris on July 9, he immediately ap­ \^exlcan fishermen and salvage workers believe 4,000 tons of sulfuric But workers, from the proached the captain about the resumed July 13. A few days later, acid from the Betula leaked Into the sea. The Mexican government American salvage company who situation. The captain said he did the vessel sailed to Boston to pick says none of the ship's cargo was spilled. were inspecting the tanks told the not want to discuss the problem. up a load of scrap steel for China. - rf. After Months of No Pay, NIS Ship's Crew Strikes - r-WI'. •v-s,fmj ti- "'•"! • • -i' -:-•••* iiif • L' V' 'r !i �• r-.-'' 6 AUGUST 1993 SEAFARERS LOG House Hearing Reveals MarMme Pelicy UnUer Review ''iSfe: „s*» V,";,rlr- The bill, introduced last month Unde man our RRF. This is a grave in place," Yim told Taylor. Continued from page 3 Senate rules, by Studds and Armed Services Although Herberger had his concern to us. It is an issue we are one senator Committee Chairman Ron DelJoan Yim and William J. Lynn, looking at in terms of re-flag- confirmation hearing June 23, with an ob­ lums (D-Calif.), is designed to in­ director of program analysis for ging. farm-state senators led by Conrad jection can itiate a technology development the Defense Department. Also When the subcommittee chair­ Bums (R-Mont.), Hank Brown place a hold program to provide a base for ad­ speaking before the panel was Dr. man asked Lynn if the Defense (R-Colo.) and Charles Grassley on a Paul Chapman, the author of Department had any contingency (R-Iowa) are holding up the presidential vanced shipbuilding, create a Trouble on Board about plans for the RRF if American admiral's confirmation in the nomination. market for U.S.-built double-hull runaway-flag shipping and the crews were not available, he said Senate Commerce, Science and former director of the Center for none had been drawn up. Transportation Committee. The Thomas Andrews Herberger is tankers and expand federal loan one of many guarantees for U.S. shipyards. Seafarers' Rights (See article on "The current plan is to rely on senators are using this tactic to get page 3). such Clinton appointees whose Parts of H.R. 2547 are expected back at Herberger because of the the (U.S.) merchant marine," H.R. 2151 Lynn added. strong support he indicated for final confirmation is being or was to be included in the Fiscal Year would amend Neither government witness cargo preference during his con­ delayed by such a move. 1994 Defense Department ap­ the Merchant was aware of a July 1 letter from firmation hearing. Burns, Brown propriations bill. Other Bills Progressing Marine Act of Senator Barbara Mikulski (D- and Grassley are frequent critics While the House subcommit­ 1936 by creat­ Md.) to Clinton stating "the Pen­ of cargo preference legislation. The Merchant Marine Invest­ ing a tagon has given advice to two (Cargo preference laws desig­ tee is expected to mark up—the ment Act (H.R. 2152) is awaiting Maritime major shipping companies (Seanate a certain process of preparing a bill for its action by the House Ways and Security Reet Land and APL) to re-flag their percentage of next assignment—H.R. 2151 late Means Committee after being Program. The ships with the Marshall Islands. govemment- in July, action on other aspects of reported out by the Merchant bill, if passed, impelled the maritime revitalization pro­ The crews on these ships will Joan Yim Marine and Fisheries Commit­ would permit come from all over the world. cargo be car­ gram has begun. tee. up to 90 U.S.-flag vessels operat­ She further noted in the letter that ried aboard The National Shipbuilding ing in international commercia she lacked confidence in foreign U.S.-flag and Conversion Act of 1993 trade to receive a subsidy for IC crews performing up to the same vessels. Such (H.R. 2547) has been reported out The final bill in the package, years. The payments would begin commitment as American laws have of the House Merchant Marine H.R. 2380, is before the Merchant in Fiscal Year 1996. The mariners. Herb Bateman been in effect and Fisheries Committee. It is Marine and Fisheries Committee Maritime Trust Fund Act (H.R. During his testimony before since 1954. 2380) provides the components the House subcommittee, Dr The policy began after World before the House Armed Services as well as the Ways and Means Committee. Committee. for funding H.R. 2151 through a Chapman pointed out that one o War II.) . 5 percent passenger ticket tax on the first things a company will do certain cruises originating in the when it switches flags is to U.S. and a $15 vessel container change the nationality of the tax on import and export cargo. crew. "This is the pattern around Receiving Presidential Attention the world," he said. "This is one In her prepared testimony, of the reasons for flagging out. SIU pensioner Fred Umholtz tended, he noted. He noted noticed an advertisement in the Yim announced, "Maritime "Many of the World War U when Nor­ personals section of his local mariners are still struggling for reform has received vigorous at­ way adopted Springdale, Ark. newspaper for veteran status, and it help^ to tention within the administration a second World War II seamen to meet meet and share our thoughts and and is still underactive considera­ registry, all once a month for coffee and to feelings on the matter," the retiree tion." Norwegian swap old sea stories. Yim praised the role that has said. crewmembeen played by the U.S.-flag mer­ "I thought I was the only "We invited eight local U.S. bers except World War II merchant seaman Navy armed guard veterans to chant marine in times of national the captain around this area, but much to my join us because they stood guard emergencies. "The active com­ mercial fleet also provides a base Helen Bentley and chief en­ surprise, discovered thk there on our ships," he added. gineer were were more than 60 just in the of seagoing employment for The veterans barbecued, American seafarers, who in turn replaced by lower-paid foreign northwest part of Arkansas and played bingo and horse shoes, but are available to the Department of nationals. "But then, in many of over 400 living in the entire the most important event was Defense and the Maritime Ad­ the Norwegian ships that have state," Umholtz told a reporter for swapping stories. Brother Um­ ministration lagged-out, now all of the crew the Seafarers LOG. holtz made prizes in his workshop crew from top to bottom are foreign." to "A number of the veterans are to give out to the winners of the Representative Thomas SUP sailors who really enjoy games. sealift ships, Andrews (D-Maine) commented. reading my issues of the including the "Now that I'm not sailing, We could find ourselves with Seafarers LOG which I brought have Ready a lot of time on my hands. I Reserve crews that might be very unsym- to the meetings, and they'd pass enjoy woodworking and have Force, during jathetic to the cause that the "rom one to another," he said. shop set up. I make things like crises," she Jnited States armed forces may According to Umholtz, the little toys, windmills and special Since retiring in 1987, Brother be engaged in—the very crews monthly meetings grew, and the Umholtz spends time in his shop said. we may be depending upon to seamen began planning for a mini-merry-go-rounds. I sell creating unique wooden crafts. "The use William J. Lynn them to people I know and give a of civilian deliver vital equipment to our arger scale reunion for the lot of them to my friends and merchant mariners on govern- armed forces." Arkansas veterans and their States. Representative Helen Delich amilies. The seamen decided to family," he said. ment ships in times of emergency A native of Elm Springs, Ark., "After the war, we carried Bentley (R-Md.) suggested that is one of the most cost-effective lold the event at Hickory Creek Brother Umholtz joined the German prisoners back to Europe the Defense Department recall and efficient%xamples of 'publicPark on Beaver Lake, just outside Seafarers on the last day of 1945 from prison camps," he said. private partnerships,' a new con­ what happened in Vietnam when Springdale. in Sheepshead Bay, N.Y. In 1951 he was drafted into the cept to many, but a well-tested foreign crews refused to carry Umholtz recently provided the Umholtz's first ship was the U.S. Army to serve in the Korean war supplies aboard fully loaded one for our national defense. LOG with photographs from the Williams Victory, a Smith and Lynn added in his remarks that ships to the southeastem Asia na­ second annual reunion of World Johnson vessel. He sailed in the conflict. In 1952, immediately the Defense Department "needs tion, forcing the vessels to be of­ War 11 merchant mariners living deck department. The vessel following his release from the sealift. The United States is a nation floaded and materiel placed on in Arkansas. The day-long picnic served as a troop ship returning Army, he revived his SIU career with global interests, and it depends other ships. She pointed out there on Beaver Lake was well at­ soldiers from Europe back to the and began sailing out of the port of New Orleans. on the deployment of forces fixjm were several instances when the He sailed with Delta Lines for U.S. bases to defend those interests same thing occurred during the recent Persian Gulf conflict. most of his maritime career but when trouble strikes." also sailed around the world with He pointed out the long-stand­ Senators Block Nominee Isthmian Steamship. ing policy "to rely on the [U.S.] In response to a question from "I must have sailed on about maritime industry to meet Representative Gene Taylor (D80 ships in all my SIU seatime. [Defense] requirements, to the Miss.) seekThere are so many that I lost extent that the industry can do so, ing specific count," Umholtz observed. and we intend to continue that goals for The deck department member policy." Mar Ad, Yim spent many years sailing to West Questions RRF Crowing replied the Africa and South America. "One During the questioning that of my favorite places was Brazil. agency has followed, Lipinski asked Yim if When I was with Delta I sailed on not been able the Maritime Administration a passenger ship and we took 47to implement could count on U.S. mariners to day trips to Brazil and back to any because crew Ready Reserve Force (RRF) Houston. We really got to know the person Gene Taylor vessels should U.S.-flag maritime the Brazilian people, and it be­ appointed by companies re-flag their ships and came a second home for many of Clinton to serve as Maritime Ad­ hire foreign crews. us," the pensioner recalled. "That is a difficult question we ministrator, Vice Admiral Albert Brother Umholtz spent the last are facing," Yim replied. "We Herberger (Ret.), has not been few years of hisSIU career sailing need to have seafarers who have confirmed by the Senate. aboard Sea-Land vessels: He jobs in peacetime in order to be "It is somewhat frustrating in­ ^'ensioner Fred Umholtz (right) joins other Arkansas merchant marine retired to his hometown of Elm available during times of war to ternally in, that our team is rtot yet veterans at the second annual reunion in Hickory Creek Park, Ark. Spings in 1987. Arkansas Merchant Marine Vets Reminisce at Day-Long Reunion 7 /• 7 �V r. ::m AUGUST 1993 SEAFARERS LOG 7 :'M Wilkes Crew Completes Record-Breaklng Recovery MSG Vessel Rrings Up Sunken Survey Sled Sf- SIU crewmembers aboarc connection of the sled, the the USNS Wilkes participated in Magellan vehicle was brought a record-breaking salvage aboard and the ship's crew recovery on June 20 when the began the long process of bring­ crew brought up an ing the system aboard. The oceanographic seafloor survey Wilkes' deep sea trawl and system sled from 5,450 meters coring winch was used because of water off the south coast o of its ample pulling power and Hawaii. sufficient drum capacity for the The Wilkes, owned by the 20,000 feet of recovery pendant. Military Sealift Command Smallwood noted that (MSG) and operated by Bay several splices in the line were Ship Management, is a Nava difficult to pass through the Oceanographic Office vesse various blocks and fairleads,but OS JaeThrowbridgeand ABTom After hours of hard work by crewmembers, the spooling device Is which operates throughout the the wet and slippery kevlar was Skublnna lay back on a section of hoisted clear of the water. Extending downward Into the water Is the Pacific Ocean. squeezed carefully through nylon pendant being used to hoist recovery pendant leading to the deep ocean survey sled still oh the without mishap. The final 800 the recovery pendant on board, ocean bed. Wilkes Chief Mate Free feet of the recovery pendant was Smallwood supplied the Seafarers LOG with a very large diameter and had to photographs and information be worked separately. about the crew's efforts in "The sled cleared the water recovering the survey system. and was snaked on board after According to Smallwood,the dark of the second day—to the seafloor survey sled had been delight of a tired but dedicated lost by oceanographers when an crew," he recalled. attachment link parted. The "The record-breaking suc­ Naval Oceanographic Office cess of this salvage operation is sought assistance from the su­ a tribute to the skill and efficien­ pervisor of Diving and Salvage cy of the crew of this small who contracted Oceaneering ship," Smallwood added. Technologies, Inc. to operate The Wilkes sailed into the deep salvage remotely Honolulu with the sled on deck piloted vehicle Magellan 724 and wit^ a "broom at the yarjfrom the Wilkes. darm" indicating a successful "The operation was a tricky mission. Bosun "Skip" Yager one at such extreme depths and said of the operation, "Hey, we required the Magellan recovery just got the job done." Bosun "Skip" Yager signals crew to hold the line as the spooling device is hoisted to the deck's edge. vehicle to attach a 20,000 foot Crewmembers aboard the long recovery pendant of half- Wilkes received a commenda­ inch kevlar line to the downed tion from the commanding of­ sled. ficer of the Naval "While the sled was being Oceanographic Office at the located, hooked up and Stennis Space Center in Missis­ recovered, it was necessary for sippi for the sled's recovery. the Wilkes' ship control team to Among those listed by keep the ship within a few Smallwood as instrumental in meters of a position directly the recovery effort were Bosun over the sled. The ship has no Yager, ABs ^'Mac" Davis, Tom automated station-keeping sys­ Skubinna, "Jake" Jacobs, tem and the team used various Steve Herring and Andy combinations of engine, rudder Gutierrez; OSs Jae and bow thruster to keep the Tbrowbridge, Adam Taiucci ship in precise position in the and Matt Sandy. In addition to open sea for more than 30 hours Smallwood, the ship's officers during the hook-up and included Captain Steve Smith, recovery," Smallwood wrote in Second Mate David Ayer and' his letter detailing the event. Third Mate Wendi ImpellizOnce the crew secured the zeri. liiilfc: During the final moments of the 36-hour recovery, Bosun Yager carefully guides the deep ocean sled onto the ship's after deck. m The mkes retums to Honolulu with the sled on deck. "Broom at the yardarm," signifying a successful mission, is hidden among signal flags. The sled, more than 17 feet long, is ready for its return to Honoluju aboard the USNS Wilkes. �.fii.•?:'> t S AUGusrms SEAFARERS LOG \Expert Witness Tells Panel •II. Runaway Flags Mean Loss of American Jobs I Burma, the Philippines and other ter for Seafarers' Rights to advise . Dr. Paul Chapman, the former agency. All direct connection be- developing countries, but oncb port chaplains and mariners from director of the Center for around Ae world on what to do Seafarers' Rights, told members tween the owner/operator and the that seafarer signs onto of the House Merchant Marine crew is lost in the process, and the Panamanian-flag ship, he is con- when they faced serious problems Subcommittee they should ex only criterion for the operation is trolled by the Panamanian aboard vessels. Among the pect foreign crews to replace profit," Chapman told the panel, maritime labor code. The fact is troubles that have been faced by American crews when U.S.-fla: In this highly competitive in- that many of the 30 or more flag port chaplains visiting runawayships replace the Stars-anc dustiy, a downward spiral results, of convenience registries which flag vessels are lack of payment Stripes with a flag of con and an operator is constantly today register almost 50 percent for work performed, inadequate tempted in the pressure of com- of the world's ships have little or food, refusal to access medical venience. Chapman addressed the House petition to go a notch lower in no interest in enforcing their care and forced employment after Many main streets in the Midwest panel on the problems that occur standards. maritime labor code and no ad- a contract has expired. are covered by floodwaters. A Filipino AB can be ministrative capability of doing when merchant vessels re-flag "Without any legal protection He appeared as a witness durin^ employed for $300 to $400 a so. or meaningful union contracts, "The effect of this is that once the owner/operator is free to ar­ a July 20 hearing called to take month. A Chinese AB can be testimony conceming a U.S.-fla hiredforlessthan$100amonth. a merchant ship leaves port, it bitrarily ded with crew without maritime revitalization package Having lost all connection with moves beyond the control of any restraint," Chapman said. "Good offered by members of Congress the recruiting process and dealing legal regime. In effect, it moves management includes a high only with a hierarchy of ship into a legal black hole. Contracts regard for the dignity and work­ in May. The author of Trouble on management companies with can be ignored, and since crews ing conditions of workers, but we Board, a book about the problems various kinds of chartering proce- are often recruited where unContinuedfrom page 3 involving merchant seamen on dures, the owner/operator may employment is high and wages found that on as many as 20 per­ the Atchafalaya River and thus vessels registered to runaway not even be aware of conditions are low, crewmembers are often cent of the ships, the crews were prevent flood conditions in the flags, spoke to the subcommittee on board, or salary levels, or of reluctant to even voice their com- being abused and exploited. And less than a month after Sea-Lanc thestandardsthatarebeingmain-1 plaint except perhaps to a the number may be higher be­ Mississippi Delta. cause crewmembers are reluctant I chaplain." Alton Port Representative Tim I and American President Lines an- tained. He told the House members he to speak up, lest they lose their Kelley reported the Alton hall is nounced their plans to follow End of Tradition working together with the through on threats to replace the He noted if American com­ started the New York-based Cen-1 jobs.' Madison County Federation of American flag on 20 of their ves- panies take their vessels to off­ Labor toward providing relief for sels. shore registries, the effect could community members who have (Runaway vessels, also known )e disastrous for the United lost their homes and businesses as flag-of-convenience ships, are States. because of the Mississippi's those owned in one country, In this country, this would rising floodwaters, He noted the registered in another and crewed result in a loss of maritime hall has taken several phone calls by mariners from still other capability, the end of a career, of from Alton Belle crewmembers countries. These vessels are an expertise, which has helped for about fellow Seafarers who are dubbed "runaway" because they 00 years to shape this countiy. victims of the high waters where are attempting to flee respon"There is no crash course for the Mississippi and Missouri | sibility for taxes and regulations maritime officers. You go to from the owner's nation.) nVers meet. school and you spend 10 years at "We have begun the process of Abandon Nation's Mariners sea working your way up to notifying these union members Chapman cited as an example master. To lose part of our nation­ that we will do whatever we can what happened to Norwegian al competence would be tragic. to help them," Kelley said. crews when Norway decided to Chapman added that U.S. A source from the U.S. Army create a flag-of-convenience shipping companies would face Corps of Engineers reported that registry, le additional challenge of find­ heavy rain in the Missouri River "Initially Norwegians were ing Americans knowledgeable in Dr. Paul Chapman (right) discusses the effects of runaway-flag ves­ is backing up into the flooded hired as masters and chief en- naaritime to help run their firms, sels on merchant mariners with U.S. Rep. Gene Taylor (D-Miss.). Mississippi toward Alton, gineers and the rest of the crew t has been suggested that in the Weather reports indicate that the were from foreign lands. But now ong run, not only will the ships Mississippi around the Alton area on ntany of the Norwegian ag out, but the companies them­ is expected to reach a crest of 40 second registry ships, all of the selves may move aboard. While pointing out that he has feet, an all-time high. Emergency officers and crew are foreign." crews are standing by, ready for Chapman, who now serves as not discovered a direct correla- Continuedfrom page 3 the Mississippi to surge top" instructor at the Bangor ;ion between ships' flagging out that we retain our maritime fleet, another record high at Melvin n^®®^°8'^^' Seminar in Maine, and standards on those vessels Lipinski told his colleagues. Price Lock and Dam, south of the ^tat^ that when shipping com- deteriorating, the author said, 'I think we have to take this Illinoistown. panies from developed nations 'That has been the pattem." He dramatic action in ,,order to obtain , J .1. switch to a flag of convenience. o Tered UIW the representatives an wyv ex- | j I.V|/XV/OVIltXiU V WO oil ... • m n Forecasters said they were businesses tend to stop deal- mple of how lower working and i beginning to detect a new pattern ing with manning agents. They iving standards take place. sentative Jack Fields (R-Texas) <1 nio..ir u«i«' concerning the amendment. in the rainy weather that has hung will contract with a ship manageLegal Black Hole Fields is the ranking minority over the Midwest for the better ment company which, in turn, A ship owned in Hong Kong member of the Merchant Marine part of six weeks. | subcontracts with a manning may have a mixed crew from | and Fisheries Committee. Other congressmen offered Rivers' Flow Irrevocably Changed their support. "We must do some­ thing to rebuild (the U.S.-flag merchant fleet) for the benefit of this country because in a time of David Bonior crisis it is absolutely necessary that they be prepared to support our efforts on the waters of the ment report on the need of mer­ world, wherever we need to chant sMpping for sealift. That deliver the goods to supply our report is expected to be released troops," noted Representative this month. The two shipping companies James Quillen (R-Tenn.). 'Comprehensive maritime followed through in June on their reform will enable (Sea-Land and threats to go foreign flag. SeaAmerican President Lines) to stay Land filed a request to lower the under the U.S. flag," added U.S. American flag on 13 of its ves­ Representative David Bonior (D- sels, while APL did the same for Mich.), the House majority whip seven ships in its fleet. APL also and a long-time supporter of the stated it would seek permission to U.S.-flag merchant fleet. "We fly a foreign flag on six vessels that will be built in German and need time to do that." Sea-Land and APL had South Korean yards. threatened togo foreign flag since MarAd representatives noted last year unless a maritime the request by the companies to revitalization program became re-flag 20 ships was an unusually law. Congress introduced its high number with which to deal AP (Earl Observation Satellite t^mp) These two Landsat Thematic Mapper images show the St. Louis area on July 4,1988 (left) and July legislation in May after the Clin­ at one time. Normally, the agen­ 18,1993 (right), demonstrating the dramatic contrast in the size of the Missouri and Mississippi rivers. ton administration announced it cy handles re-flagging applica­ would delay its recommendation tions for one or two vessels at a Scientists say the flood will cause the rivers to take up new routes. until it receives a Defpnse Depart- time. Flood Slops Tugs/Barges ^iSSS•1^1 . ff'sif 'K. ''" ''': ' Reflagging Postponed MsarAd AuOwrtalkm BUI Passed 4S"'-" '4-"- ' :l-:3r '•• ,?l.. • -v ..y' �AUGUST 1993 SEAFAGERSLOG Gov't Services Member Named MSCPAC Mariner for 1992 An SIU Government Services to maintain its high degree of Division member has been named readiness. the Military Sealift Command"Mr. Castillo's knowledge of Pacific (MSCPAC) 1992 Marine the Tano propulsion and other on­ Employee of the Year for his board electronics systems is im­ work over and above the call of pressive," Walsh wrote in duty aboard the USNS Andrew nominating Castillo. "Due to his Higgins. knowledge, we've been able to Electronics Technician Her upgrade our propulsion system to min Castillo collected not only include the latest modifications the top award presented annually by Tano and determine the extent by the fleet, but he also received of previous machinery history. the unlicensed engine He alone has processed, recorded department's 1992 Mariner and implemented many Tano en­ gineering change notices. Award of Excellence. Walsh continued his praise for He was joined by AB/Maintenance Allen R. Glassford and Castillo by saying he "doesn't Steward/Cook Perfecto Basilic limit his knowledge and expertise as the outstanding mariners in to only his gear but repairs any each of their respective un­ electrical or electronic problem licensed departments aboard presented to him. His contribu­ MSCPAC ships. The annual tion to the USNS Higgins far ex­ awards recognize outstanding ceeded the scope of his job work efforts and achievements by description." individuals sailing in the unCastillo received a plaque licensed deck, engine and from Captain L.M. Pivonka, the steward departments as well as commander of MSCPAC, in deck, engine and medical officers recognition of his achievements. in the fleet. Concerns for Safety Always Available Unlicensed deck winner Castillo was nominated for Glassford also sailed aboard the both MSCPACs highest award USNS Higgins in 1992. The as well as the engine department AB/maintenance was praised as a recognition by Chief Engineer self-starter, a conscientious Thomas Walsh, who sailed with worker and a person concerned the electronics technician last with the safety of his fellow crewmembers. year. In nominating the deck depart­ Walsh stated Castillo worked long hours under unfavorable ment member for the award. First conditions and was always on call Officer Steve Rose wrote, to allow the Higgins, a fleet oiler. Glassford exhibits profes­ sionalism and dedication to duty in all assignments, especially in the area of damage control. His efforts with damage control aboard the Higgins contributed to the fleet oiler's recent evaluation of "excellent" for damage control and firefighting." While sailing aboard the Hig­ gins, Glassford served as fire marshal. In that role, he taught new crewmembers about the ship's damage control systems and the type of firefighting equip­ ment found aboard the oiler. Excellent Feeder In gaining recognition for his work aboard the fleet tug USNS Catawba, Steward/Cook Basilio was noted for his work in making the Catawba a top-notch feeder. "Mr. Basilio is both highly dedicated and professional in overseeing all areas of the steward department," wrote Cap­ tain Pat Huetter, master of the tug. "From baking zucchini bread to birthday cakes, he goes out of his way to respond to the crew's every request and need. He's al­ ways done a superior job for Catawba and MSCPAC." During his tour on the tug, the steward/cook received two straight "excellent" ratings during command inspections. Pact Insures Atlanta's Olympic Stadium Will Be Built by Union Workers The North Georgia Building Trades Council has announced an agreement with the Atlanta Stadium Contractors for a fair-wage agreement covering the construction workers who will build an 85,000-seat stadium as well as support facilities for the 1996 Olympic Games which will be held in the Georgia city. The agreement includes wage scales, employer-paid health care benefits and pensions, as well as mandatory training for all contractor and subcontractor workers. The council credited efforts by the Atlanta AFL-CIO and local public employee, industrial, service and building trades unions for acquiring the pact in the right-to-work state. The stadium project is expected to cost approximately $210 million. USNS Mercury Joins RRF; Leaves MSCPAC Fleet Seafarers Rally In Protest of NAFTA •:Vv "! J J ' . r J • ' •![ • " V".. m- y-¥ /-•"M Colorado Beef Processors Succeed After 10-Year Struggle to Gain Union Employees at the Monfort beef processing plant in Greeley, Colo, have voted for union representation after 10 years of anti-union coercion, intimidation and discrimination by the company. Workers voted for the United Food and Commercial Workers to represent them. The Greeley plant had been a union shop until it closed in 1980. When the facility reopened in 1982, Monfort refused to hire more than 250 former union members and kept the plant non-union until the recent vote. Mine Workers' Strike Continues Against Coal Operators Association More than 16,000 members of the United Mine Workers in seven states have left their mines as a strike against the Bituminous Coal Operators Association (BCOA) enters its third month. The selective strike against members of the association began on May 10. The Mine Workers are protesting the mine owners' refusal to bargain in good faith and other unfair labor practices. Job security is the key issue for the union members. The Mine Workers claim the companies are opening non-union mines while those where the union members work are'being exhausted. In the meantime, the union signed an agreement with four companies that broke away from the BCOA to form the Independent Bituminous Coal Bargaining Alliance. The pact covers 7,500 miners in Alabama, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia. The union also signed agreements with two previously unorganized mines that employ 700 people. The a^eements were reached with Marrowbone SIU Government Services guished career with MSCPAC. Development in Mingo County, W.Va. and Wolf Creek Collieries in Martin County, Ky. Division members bade farewell Capable of carrying around 1,000 to the USNS Mercury, a roll- vehicles, the vessel was one of the New Contract Obtained In New England on/roll-off vessel that has been first roll-on/roll-offi-ships to Following a 24-Week Lockout Following a 24-week lockout, the workers at Bay State Gas in Massachusetts and New Hampshire part of the Military Sealift Com­ deliver supplies and materiel to ratified a new six-year contract on July 2. The Steelworkers Locals 12026 and 14930 as well as Electrical mand-Pacific fleet (MSCPAC) American combat forces during Workers Local 486 represent the workers. Operation Desert Shield in 1990. since it was built in 1976. The lockout began January 16 when members of Local 12026 rejected the company's contract offer. The ship was turned over to the The vessel was the only MSC Members survived on unemployment compensation after the Massachusetts legislature passed extended Maritime Administration RO/RO to operate with a benefits for locked out workers. (MarAd) to become part of the civilian crew. The unlicensed Ready Reserve Force (RRF). The crewmembers were represented Board Orders Tyson Mercury sailed into a New Or­ by the Government Services Labor To Honor Union Contracts leans sMpyard where it will be Division. Members of the Teamsters and the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) gained a victory No announcement has been prepared to join the RRF fleet. It against Tyson Foods when thechicken processing company was ordered by the National Labor Relations will join 11 other newly acquired made stating when the Mercury Board (NLRB)to bargain with the unions. RO/RO vessels in the MarAd will be leaving the shipyard or Regarding the Teamsters, the board found that Tyson—^as the successor of Holly Farms—^had where it will be stationed in the fleet. interfered with a union representation election involving approximately 200 long-haul truck drivers in The Mercury had a distin­ RRF fleet. Virginia, North Carolina and Texas. After taking over Holly Farms in 1989, Tyson unilaterally offered the drivers wages and benefits at the lower Tyson rates, thus bypassing the union. . The company threatened workers with plant closures and sale of their trucks if they voted union. The Discussing Maritime in Norfoik NLRB ordered the company to rehire 47 workers who were discharged because of union activities. In a case involving an Arkansas local, the NLRB ruled Tyson had illegally directed and controlled a decertification petition in a chicken processing plant in 1991. The board ordered Tyson to recognize the UFCW local and bargain in good faith. U.S. Senator Charles Robb (D-Va.) Is updated on the concerns of the U.S.-flag maritime Industry by Hampton Roads Port Council President Bernard Hopkins (left) and SIU Norfolk Port Agent Mike Paladino (right). 9 SIU members join with other trade unlonsts to protest the possible loss of jobs to Mexico should Congress approve the NAFTA treaty. Negotiations among the United States, Canada and Mexico are continuing. iS .• '"'Mr 1 W:-: VQi'" If:, I#.- �to AUGUST 1093 SEAFARERS LOG A S schools begin another year across the country, it is not too early to start i planning to apply for a 1994 Seafarers Scholarship. In 1994, as in years past, the union will be offering seven scholarships. Four of these financial awards are set aside for the children and spouses of Seafarers. Each of the four scholarships is for $15,000 to be used at a four-year college or university. The other three are for Seafarers themselves. One of the awards also is for $15,000 for use at a four-year institution of higher learning. The remaining two scholarships amount to $6,000 each and can be used for study at a community college or vocational school. Since 1952, the SIU has awarded 228 scholarships to its members, their spouses and children to help them reach their educational goals. From these ranks have come doctors, lawyers, teachers and many other careers. Some members have used the program to improve their own job skills as Seafarers. However, all of them took the same first step to win a scholarship. TTiat step was to apply for the Seafarers Scholarship Program booklet which contains the vital information necessary to apply. To receive a copy of this guide, send in the coupon at the bottom of this page. What follows are some highlights from the scholarship booklet. ELIGIBILITY For a Seafarer to be eligible to be awarded a scholarship, he or she must: • Be a high school graduate or its equivalent; • Have a total of 730 days of employment with an employer who is obligated to make contributions to the Seafarers Welf^e Plan on the Seafarer's behalf prior to the date of application; • have one day of employment on a vessel in the six-month period immediately prior to the date of application; • Have 120 days of employment on a vessel in the previous calendar year. (Pensioners are not eligible for scholarships.) For a spouse to be eligible for a scholarship award, he or she must: • Be married to an eligible Seafarer or SIU pensioner; • Be a high school graduate or its equivalent. • • t Be under the age of 19 OR Be under the age of 25 and be a full-time student erurolled in a program leading to a baccalaureate or higher degree at an accredited institution authorized by law to grant such degrees; Be the child of a Seafarer who has credit for a total of 1,095 days of covered employment with an employer who is obligated to make contributions to the Seafarers Welfare Plan on the Seafarer's behalf prior to the date of application; Be the child of a seafaring parent who has one day of employment in the six-month period preceding the date of application and 120 days of employment in the previous calendar year (unless the eligible parent is deceased). It should be noted that dependent children who win SIU scholarships and marry while receiving the award will not have to forfeit the grant by reason of such marriage. CHECKLIST (i- . • • • • Autobiographical statement Photograph j Certified copy of birth certificate / High school transcript and certification of graduation or official copy of high school equivalency scores • College transcript 7, . • FOR MORE INFORMATION Ask for a 1994 Seafarers Scholarship Program booklet at any SIU hall, or fill out the coupon below and return it to the Seafarers Welfare Plan. P lease send me the 1994 SIU Scholarship Program booklet which contains eligibility information, procedures for applying and the application form. Name Address City, State, Zip Code Telephone Number This application is for: (Self) (Dependent) Letters of reference SAT or ACT results I All completed applications with all necessary information included MUST be mailed and postmarked ON or BEFORE APRIL 15,1994. The SAT or ACT test must be taken by February 1994 to insure the test results will be available for inclusion in the scholarship application package. For information on upcoming SAT tests, contact the College Entrance Examination Board at either Box 592, Princeton, NJ 08540 or Box 1025 Berkeley, CA 94701, whichever is closest. For information regarding ACT tests, contact ACT Registration Union, P.O.Box 414, Iowa City, lA 52243. Scholarship recipients MUST enroll in a college or trade school and notify the Seafarers Welfare Plan of their admission by AUGUST 1,1994. Recipients who are the spouse or child of a Seafarer are expected to complete their course of study during the four years covered by the grant. Seafarers who receive the $15,000 award must complete the program within six years.Seafarers who receive the $6,(X)0 award must complete their programs in four years. Book Number Deadline for applying is April 15,1994. Items that need to be postmarked by that date for review by the Scholarship Committee include: • Scholarship application • / •• emember, it will take time to gather all this information. Plan ahead to make sure everything will be collected in time. Some schools can be slow in handling transcript requests, so applicants should ask for them as soon as possible. The SAT and ACT examinations are offered approximately six times each year on specified dates. Applicants should take the appropriate test required by the college or trade school he or she plans to attend. DEADLINES For a dependent child to be eligible to be awarded a scholarship, he or she must: • Be an unmarried child of an eligible Seafarer or SIU pensioner for whom the member or pensioner has been the sole source of support the previous calendar year; • Be a high school graduate or its equivalent, although applications may be made during the senior year of high school; • • R ft, ' ' I . I j Mail this completed form to Scholarship Program. Seafarers Welfare \ 1^ Plan, 5201 AuthWay, Carrip Springs, MD 20746. �SEAFARERS LOG 11 Seafarers Pull Together For New Boblo Season SIU crewmembers aboard the Boblo Island boats are geared up for another busy season of taking passengers from Gibraltar, Mich, to Boblo Island amusement park, located at the mouth of Lake Erie near Amherstburg, Ontario. Annual Boblo operations began Memorial Day weekend and will continue until Labor Day weekend when the boats will be laid up for the winter season. Four boats make up the Boblo fleet, and they are crewed by members of the Seafarers Interna­ tional Union, which has repre­ sented the Boblo crew since the 1940s. Crewmembers work the en­ gines, keep the passengers com­ fortable, tie up lines when docking, release lines when pulling out and properly maintain each vessel's in­ terior and exterior. The entire Boblo fleet's deck crew works together to get the job done each day of the season. The L.R. Beattie is the largest of the four boats with a capacity of300passengers. Crewmembers prepare and sell hot dogs and refreshments to passengers on the 45-minute cruise across Lake Erie to the park. Crewmembers also sell snacks and refreshments aboard the MV Friendship, which holds 120 pas­ sengers. The remaining two vessels hold 150 passengers each and are unique in that they are styled after the old Mississippi River boats. They are the MV Gibraltar and the MV Tecumseh. The Boblo boats operate every hour, seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., picking up and dropping off passengers in both locations. Vf' -• "• • • • • -.L; A • •:>! -"L- Boblo crewmembers pose for a photo before beginning a day of transporting passengers across Lake Erie. They are (from left, first row) Deckhands Husein Hasser, Rochelle Carrington, Janice Stamper and Cheryl Stamper, Captain David Young, (second row) Deckhand Doug Shearer, Captain John Mickey, Deckhand ^sanOnufrak,Captajn Paul Lepage,_ (third row) Captain William Kampfert, Deckhands Craig Deckhand Cheryl Stamper flies the Boblo flag overhead while the Ciarrocchi, Joseph Murray and James Basham. r. u. Phillip Prentiss, X i-_ . r, . passengers await arrival at the island. S'y- Li. Crewmembers aboard the LR. Beattie gather on deck for a group photo. Preparing hot dogs and refresh­ ments for the passengers is the responsibility of food service worker Shannon Hall. Marlin Sails into Guifport Deckhands James Basham (left) and Dana Smith escape the rainy weather as their vessel leaves port for Boblo Island. Deckhands Rochelle Carrington (left) and Doug Shearer keep the decks aboard the MV Friendship keeping busy as both a Boblo captain and a union shop steward Is in shipshape condition. Juan Sanche2. Chief Engineer Donice l.xiwson (left) and Chief Mate Kevin Delattre take a break on the deck of the tug Marlin recently when, the Penn Maritime tug was doing hartxrr wbrk in Guifport, Miss. -"Li '"•/if '.'-V �:..i—.. 12 SEAFARERS LOG AUGUST 1993 Mariiw Eleetnnlcs Comses Avallab^ at LwaMmy School Flashlights Md rags once were November 8 to December 17 There is no prerequisite for common tools of the trade for (For a complete list of the Lun­ Basic Electronics. The Lun­ Seafarers who sziil in the engine deberg School's current course deberg School recommends that department. But nowadays, schedule, see page 27 of this edi­ students complete an introduc­ thanks to automation and high­ tion of the LOG.) tory algebra course before taking These courses have been Basic Electronics, but this is not tech training, working in the en­ gine department means operating available at the Lundeberg required. test equipment such as digital School since 1989. As advances Basic Electronics includes a lot multi-meters, oscilloscopes and in technology continue bringing of reading and problem-solving automation to the maritime in­ Afternoons are spent working witfi logic probes. In light of this ongoing push dustry, Lundeberg School in­ basic circuits and learning how to toward newer and newer technol­ structors update the courses to troubleshoot them. ogy, Seafarers are encouraged to ensure that Seafarers remain the MET I and MET U are high- Seafarers who take marine electronics courses at the Lundeberg sign up now for an important best trained seamen able to hand­ volume courses which extensive­ School will work on high-tech equipment. phase of their training: the marine le this sophisticated equipment. ly cover electronic circuitry and The curriculum includes study electronics courses offered at the troubleshooting. Once a student passes these indorsement. No knowledge of Seafarers Harry Lundeberg of AC and DC theory, basic and courses, he or she should be able Morse Code is required. Both MET I and MET II start advanced electronic circuits, School of Seamanship. to sit for the Federal Communica­ with the study and use of transis­ The three courses—Basic digital logic, automation and For more information, contact tions Commission's exam for and end with a full tors Electronics, Marine Electronics troubleshooting. Plenty of handsthe Lundeberg School admissions General Radiotelephone knowledge of digital and analog Technician (MET) I and MET on training also is featured. office or your port agent. Operators License with Radar circuits. The courses include an The Basic Electronics course II—are particularly important to optional section which teaches QMEDs, as the courses will help was designed for those who have them move up in classification. little or no formal training in students how to use program­ Basic Electronics begins on electronics. As suggested by the mable controllers. Students who graduate fiom August 30 and lasts until Septem­ title, the course teaches the con­ these courses will be able to analyze cepts and theories needed to form ber 24. MET I takes place from September 27 to November 5, solid foundation for more ad­ low a circuit works and be able to Seafarers employed by Allied licensed assistant or chief en­ troubleshoot the circuit faults. while the schedule for MET n is vanced electronics studies. Towing Corp. recently completed gineer on uninspected towing special course covering en- vessels. The Allied boatmen "all said gineroom skills at the Paul Hall Tenter for Maritime Training and they found the course helpful and informative," said Allied Towing Education. The two-week Utilityman Port Captain Jeff Parker."I've been course was designed by Lun­ dealing with the school for 15 Boatmen from three SlU-condeberg School engine department years, and they're always helpful." tracted companies received their instructors specifically to meet Parker pointed out that inland able bodied seaman's endorse­ the needs of inland division mem­ seafarers often have very limited ment after completing training at bers who sail for Allied Towing. off their boats, so their train­ time the Harry Lundeberg School of The course first was given in ing needs are unique. That is why Seamanship. November, with students receiv­ the school and the company Seafarers from Upper Lakes ing both classroom and shop in­ worked together to create a Towing, Crowley and Maritrans struction. course which offers maximum in­ attended the special 3-week Seven students completed the struction in a relatively short course from June I to June 18, more recent course, which ended period. The course also will be The course was designed specifi­ in February. Classroom studies available for other members. cally for inland members to ad­ focused on diesel engine theory Seafarers who completed the dress their needs on America's and operation, with emphasis on class are: Wayne Woodland, waterways. different types of diesels. Leonard Paul, Wayne Potter, four There were 24 union members Shop work included welding, Frank Ingellis Sr., Norman in attendance who participated in hydraulic systems, pumps, Peters, John H. Reber III and the upgrading session. Taught by Lundeberg School Instructor Seventeen boatmen who completed the special AB course for inland electrical safety and use of Louie Payne. Lundeberg School electrical test equipment. Casey Taylor, they received ex­ members will be working on tugboats like these for Maritrans. Instructor Bill Foley taught the tensive, hands-on training as well A utilityman works as an un­ course. as written materials covering this winter when the Great Lakes firefighting and firsft aid, rules of freeze, thus bringing an end to the the road, water survival season. Reviewing Steward Recertification Appiications The 17 upgraders from (lifeboat), buoyage and boat and Maritrans was die third group to cargo handling. Six of those who upgraded to go through a Lundeberg School AB are employed by Upper Lakes training session this year from the Towing, which is based in the Philadelphia-based company. town of Escanaba, in the Upper "The people at Maritrans are Peninsula of Michigan. Upper glad to have a facility like Piney Lakes Towing is a .barge and tug­ Point available for upgrading," said boat company which transports Nick Grassia, inland port captain salt, iron ore, stone and coal be­ for the company. "Our boatmen got tween Lakes Michigan, Huron a lot out of this session. For those and Erie as well as from Lake who had never been to Piney PoinL Superior to Lake Michigan in In­ they were impressed with the diana Harbor. The six SIU mem­ facility and have expressed an in­ bers from Upper Lakes Towing terest in returning." who successfully completed the Maritrans tugboats transport June session are Francis Berube, petroleum products up and down Mark Carlson, Terrance De- the East Coast. The Seafarers who Menter, Joseph Racicot and sail for Maritrans include brothers Thomas and Jerry Richard Belote, William Belote, Stropich. The group drove in a Christopher Boyd, Paul Brown, van from Escanaba to Piney Dannie Card, John Coover, Point. Gregory Gibson, Richard Clyde Van Enkevort, an owner Feague, Mark Leadheater, An­ of Upper Lakes Towing, told a thony Myklich, Mark O'Neal, reporter from the Seafarers LOG, Edmund Putro, Ralph Ramsey, "I think the course was really Mitchell Roberts, Emmanuel good for the guys, and they came Roldan, Jimmie Stevens and back with nothing but great things Troy Zimmerman. to say. It became a necessity for Boatman Leonard Tyson their jobs to learn more and also took part in the course. He receive additional training. We sails for Crowley Towing. His Recertified Stewards (frotn left) Gregory Melvin of Jacksonville, Fla., Peter Schmitt of San Francisco Rosich of San Francisco review applications from fellow galley gang members for had a need and it became ap­ home port is Philadelphia. parent, so we sent the group down Crowley tugs pull roll-on/roll-off the 1994 steward recertification program at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship. ol'" graduates from the program makes its recommendations to the contracts to Piney Point." barges between Philadelphia, The company plans to send ad­ Jacluonville, Fla., Lake Charles, departrnerft for the next year's classes. Galley gang members who are selected will be notified by the contracts department pnor to the start of the classes ditional SIU members to upgrade La. and Puerto Rico. AUied Boatmen Graduate Special UtiUtyman Course Boatmen from 3 Inland Companlos Complete Lundeberg Scheol AB Training y % �mm: ^aMfte ^e<itlcKX (ro^/tt) <^<^Je<l <tt ^en. t O-UAce^-altC 6<td(f„ ^eil<t ^edctxut, ^(<.i<^e<l, ^Id 4eT iH.<x(Aex, "DedUfAOi. "^wmite <i<x6Cl ei<y ct cAce^ MOA, (4ta4t leccHtitf (1^0^141 cAe I<it^t. (I<tc/i ^coH^ftccd. 1^ ^iA(xt4y cu<t<i- <i€*tt to^ Se<x^4txe4vi ^ Stee<4ei,txi /4d^iC<xt4i*tt ^euHie 'H><tt<UM.. Another peek into the Seafarers LOG family album shows us f: .1 a '• ' •'% '.: •Sf /./'rSV* 'M: ••I • :• --rV'. • vt'i:7/''''' • ••.. ud-; 'I? .:® • • • . i- f^ac^44X*c(Aclie 'P<\4it /f<^*tC "TH^c^u^uf •i^ou^ l<ttui ^ud iV4^ "TH-o^tCc^^ '<i ) reccHt <ieCdcic<x*t tAe dc<si^drU(u^ t<A4X4itcC, 'VCttcent ^^4X*H^ "TKCtZuouf-, 6^04i*t "^eSruct^cf 25, t ^93. • % i- Sxc^aHi^ct«^ c</iedeU*t<^ wxcad OH /4/trci 3 ette "TKCcAael Si<tiftoH ciHcC '7^e'ied<!i. '?C.o'di.4yi /4(f€A. "THccA^tel ducld <id <t 27KS^ <t64X4i%ti S<^. 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To quote from Merton again: "The bit to starboard and then come back to value of our activity depends almost en­ port on course for each other's stem. On the five occasions that his hap­ tirely on the humility to accept ourselves as we are. The reason why we do things pened while on watch, there was always so badly is that we are not content to do that moment of doubt just before the mast lights began to shift, indicating the what we can." In this context, I am the 8-12 ordinary movement to starboard. Thoughts race seaman. The first thing I will be doing through my head. When was the last each morning is the sanitary for the deck time their steering gear was checked? department. So far it has gone well. I For that matter, when was ours? Does Aboard the USNS Sealift Pacific have cleaned a head, a laundry room, the helmsman speak English? How long I arrived at the USNS Sealift Pacific swept and mopped the 01 and 02 level has that pilot been working this channel? to spend the next three weeks or so sail­ passageways and sougeed the main deck In the end, all went well. We transited ing as the ordinary seaman for the 8-12 and port passageway. I keep telling without any difficulties. It did leave me watch. The childish excitement and en­ myself that the important thing is to keep reflecting on the future plans that I hear thusiasm of the past two summers has moving (so that I am not mistaken for a some govemment leaders have for diis gone. In its place is a confidence that has pipe), and to do quality work. Those overgrown bayou. There has been talk of emerged from those experiences, demons, though, are still trying to get me dredging the channel deeper so that big­ mingled with the knowledge obtained to compete, but with whom? ger ships can swagger down the same through my studies. I feel comfortable narrow plank. What Time Is It Anyway? now with the pace of life aboard ship. At 0100 hours we reached the Hess We sat at supper this evening, the Refinery. All hands were called for In the few days that I was on another ship, Sealift Atlantic, I was assigned bosun, the 8-12 AB, the 12-4 OS and docking and tank preparations. Those of to start on the bridge and sougee the myselfi and tried to discern what day it us on the stem were not working yet as inside of the house. Questions raced was. "Is the day Wednesday or a team. There was some confusion but through my mind as to how much Thursday? Was the date the 19th or the we got everything eventually squared progress was expected of me each day. 20th?" Half of us agreed that it was away. Afterwards, we put out the One deck a day, two passageways, what Wednesday, and the other half thought it gangway and prepared to t^e on cargo. was it? What had the previous steward was Thursday. The alliances shifted, In 18 hours we had completed load­ assistant done? He had quit the day though, when we tried to figure out if ing. The sailinjg board said 2400 hours before. Was he putting out more than I that meant is was the 19th or the 20th. was the departure time. Exactly on time was, or was I winning this "race?" With the help of a calendar and the we began to take in the gangway and the If it was a "race," then who was I agreemeiit by all that we did leave lines. The tugs eased us away from the racing? I couldn't be racing anyone in Orange, Texas on Monday, we came to dock and pointed us south, back to the the department. There wasn't anyone the consensus that it was Wednesday the sea. else in the department. Was I "racing" I9th. In a 48-hour period, we had left for the steward's approval. Yes, that's Things had been happening so quick­ Orange, taken on a full cargo of jet fuel what I was doing. I was knocking myself ly and for such long periods. What had and wereoff the Louisiana coast heading out to get the approval of someone who seemed like two days had actually been for Beaufort, N.C. It seemed as though was already happy that I had not quit the only one. Through a number of delays, days had passed, but in fact it was only first day. I was seeking the approval of a we finally left Houston Ship Repair in 48 hours. A real mariner's tmth is that person who was just happy if I kept Orange at 10:00 a.m. After the break, I one would not know the present day, moving and did an adequate job. was stationed on the bow as watch. date or hour if the steward did not write I remember almost apologizing to There was very little traffic and no com­ these important facts on the menu each him that I did not get done as much as I munication to the bridge. I passed the day. If he or she reused a menu from had hoped. He seemed a bit bewildered, time watching very familiar waters pass Febmary, our table conversation would and reassured me I was doing fine. by, but from a tot^y different perspec­ be about the unusually warm winter we Last November, while on the SS Cape tive. were having. Chalmers, one of the fellows in the deck After I was relieved and had lunch, Grieving at Sea department was a real competitor. Most we began to ready the gear that would be of the time he was a loud-mouth, but necessary for butterworthing and tank Working as a port chaplain, I have when it came to hauling in lines, no one cleaning. This was thought originally to seen and heard many stories of seamen was fast enough for him. He would race be a simple task. The tanks had all b^n far away from their homes confronted to pull the hawser through the chock cleaned in preparation for the shipyard. with some tragedy and not being able to faster than anyone else. He would nearly It was thought that all that was necessary be present to either share in the suffering bust his gut, but he looked real good. On was a little extra cleaning and the tmiks or give support to those he or she loves. one occasion, I was the man at the chock. would be ready for cargo. Wrong! In all these cases, I have sympathized I was going as fast as I could, reaching After butterworthing for about an with the suffering sailors, but it takes a down and pulling the line with all I had. hour-and-a-half, the bosun descended joumey into one's own tragedy at sea to I was subconsciously competing with into the tanks to check out the situation. tum that sympathy into an empathy that him, and because he would try to take What he found did not make him a happy quietly bonds all seafarers. my position if I was not fast enough, I camper. This bond is the dark side of the typi­ hauled with all I had. I wasn't fast In preparing to leave, it became cal seafaring fratemity. The love of the enough! As I pulled back, he stepped in necessary to take ballast from the river. ocean, the insatiable desire for adventure front, and hand over hand, not moving a With the water came silt and mud. This and the psychological need to make the step, he took my position. settled on the bottom of the tanks and whole world one's home are just some The result of all this was that I had to be cleaned out by hand. Starting of the expressions of the mariner's per­ stopped hauling on the line. Oh, I looked about 1500 hours until 2100 hours, we sona. Behind this facade is the grieving like I was. I led the line forward to the washed, pumped, scooped, sponged and sailor who missed the birth of a child, the winch, but he was doing all the work. mopped the bottom of each tank. death of a parent or the wedding of a I pass on these reflections because I At this point, the bosun sent me aft to sibling or friend. have grown a little over the last two get cleaned up. The lights of Galveston When we left Hess Petroleum docks, years. Thomas Merton writes in his book Island were on the horizon, and it was it was a beautiful night. The weather was No Man Is an Island: "We insist on time to go back on bow watch. clear and everything pointed to a com­ doing what is not asked of us, because Bow watch in the Houston Ship fortable and smooth voyage to Beaufort. we want the success that belongs to Channel is really an exciting event. In I had called a friend in Beaumont on the somebody else." many channels there are traffic lanes or day of our departure to make sure that all On the Sealift Atlantic, I had been a some form of voluntary traffic control was well on the homefront. She assured success with the steward because what that keeps large ships from passing in me that all was OK, and I promised to he wanted was someone to stay and work tight quarters. Not in Houston! To sail get back in touch when we arrived. along with him. I was blind to that and this channel is to relive a bad western On arrival in Beaufort, I called home nearly knocked myself out striving to be movie. Two gun fighters swagger to receive the devastating news that my the world's greatest at sougeeing. On the toward each other on a muddy Houston bishop, Bernard Ganter, had undergone Cape Chalmers, the AB strove for the street. The only thing keeping their ex­ brain surgeiy for a malignant tumor the success that belonged to the whole team, pensive boots dry and clean is the plank day before. The day we had sailed, he and in the end brought about poor team­ that is suspended over the mud. They had announced to the diocesan staff that work and coordination. walk closer and closer to each other, he was ill and would be undergoing the So now gone is the childish en­ staring deeply into the other's eyes. At operation on Friday. thusiasm and anxiety that were there in the last moment they sashay around each This news shook me to the core of my my other voyages. In their place, I hope. other. being. He is a man I respect, honor and Father Sinclair Oubre is Port Chaplain in Beau­ mont, Texas and an SIU member. He sails during his time off. Father Oubre has kept a journal during his seafar­ ing voyages. Last Sinclair Oubre year, the Seafarers LOG published several excerpts from the diary. What follows are some additional glimpses into Father Oubre's life aboard ship. ^ Vr •/ I- ^• ^ '. love. I doubt that he has ever realized how much he has meant to me. In 1978, when he became the bishop of Beaumont, I saw him for the first time at a basketball game at my old high school. I was already studying for the diocese but feeling rather adrift as far as my commitment to the church in Beaumont. There was not a priest to whom I felt especially close or who seemed to be a mentor. When I saw him, though, I had a strong desire to walk up to him and kiss his Episcopal ring. I restrained those feelings and thank goodness for that because such an action would have embarrassed him no end and probably started our relationship off on a peculiar leg. Through the years, he has always been my promoter and supporter, no matter how untraditional my activities may have been. Whether it was taking fencing lessons or working as a summer intern for my congressman, he never raised objections or questions regarding the appropriateness of such activities for a seminarian or future priest. It was Bishop Ganter who en­ couraged me to accept the challenge of going to Catholic University of America. By his support, I not only received a top quality education, but I also was able to enter the world of politics and labor unions that still play such an important role in my life. When it became time to look for a graduate school, it was Bishpp Ganter who offered to send me abroad. In fact, he encouraged me to investigate schools in Ottawa, Rome, Innsbruck and Leuven, Belgium. When I decided to go to Belgium, he was there to give me his blessing. As I look back on those four years, they were probably the most im­ portant in my life. My early years as a priest were not fair sailing. In my first three assign­ ments, I struck out. In baseball I would have been sent back to the minors, but Bishop Ganter continued to support me. He never threatened me or took sides. Rather, he would just say that things weren't working out and he would find another place for me to work. Now he has fallen ill. I am sure that among those who criticized him most, there is anxiousness and apprehension. They fear that the one who comes next may not be as willing to endure their moaning, groaning, overblown egos and incompetencies. Like a ship's captain who is always the "Old Man" when things are going well and the "SOB" when they are rough. Bishop Ganter has been accused of being out of touch with his priests, and of being insensitive to their particular needs. He is also accused of micromanaging the diocese and not insisting that Aings be done a specific way. \^en parishes and the diocese would be tossed around by one tempest or another, he would always be looked to as the one who could steer the safe course for all concerned. In the end. Bishop Ganter is simply a man who carries the weight of many Catholic souls on his shoulders. He stands between the grassroots needs of each individual Catholic and the man­ dates and prescriptions that emanate from Rome. He does this with all the idiosyncrasies and weaknesses that any man possesses. He does it, though, with a faith that is based on the certain knowledge that in the end all is in God's hands. I have sailed to foreign lands and have taken in adventure. T^is, I thought, was the bond of seafarers, but this is only half. I have now been initiated into the silent half. I take my place with my other mates as we grieve. We grieve for that parent who died while we were away, that child who was bom, and that friend, that mentor who has fallen ill, all the while we were at sea. �AUGUST1993 5filFilir£il51IM; 15 Seafarers in Houston Volunteer to Help Children When Crowley Captain anc SIU Assistant Vice President SIU member Bert Thompson is Don Anderson commented on the not sailing, he is busy volunteer­ efforts of the union members: ing some of his time towarc "Brothers Bolton and Bowles are several charitable activities in the always willing to help out with Houston area. programs such as this. It is a ex­ Brother Thompson is one o: cellent procedure that feeds many volunteers for ICID CARE, hundreds of Houston's hungry a non-profit organization tha children. It's great that we in the feeds children who are going SIU can get involved." hungry on the streets of the city "This is a wonderful oppor­ due to many varying circumstan­ tunity that we have to be able to ces. help a generation of children who "They make and deliver food could be lost if help doesn't reach and sandwiches to children from them. There is a tremendous 18 years old down to infants. sense of fulfillment that words Some are homeless, some come cannot even describe. It is a great from single-parent families who way to put commitment in our can't earn enough money to sup­ lives," Thompson said. port their children and some are He added, "I have my church, complete families with strong SIU members Bert Thompson and Virgil Bolton study a map of Houston to pinpoint where the next food the SIU and my community. This family values but low incomes. deiiveries wiil be taken by volunteers to children who have no other means of getting a meal. is another reference point from They are all victims of our which I can draw strength." economy who are suffering be­ children return from school. They out and growing throughout center to do a little work on some Bom in Austin, Texas on July cause they don't have any of the are hungry because they haven't Houston. 'To deliver food is a of the refrigerators and other ap­ advantages life has to offer," eaten all day or their parents work rare experience. To see the kids pliances that were given to them. 17, 1936, Brother Thompson Thompson told a reporter from late and they are alone. It's hard responding to the open expres­ It was a one-day job but it felt joined the Seafarers in 1975 in the the Seafarers LOG. for a child to acquire an education sion of love is the most remark­ really good to help out," stated port of Houston and began sailing with G&H Towing. He served in Thompson first learned about or pay attention in school with an able thing," he added. Bolton. Both Bolton and Bowles the U.S. Army from 1956to 1959. KID CARE through his local empty stomach," he noted. are graduates of the Lundeberg He upgraded to Master Oceans in Seafarers Volunteer Help Braebum Presbyterian Church, According to Thompson, KID School refrigeration course for 1979 and began sailing with A building has been acquired when the group decided that they CARE was created approximate­ engine department members. Crowley in 1980. wanted to get involved in some ly eight years ago by a registered to use as a full time food distribu­ tion center. Renovations and type of community project. They nurse and her husband, Carol and learned that there are ap­ Hurt Porter. In the medical field remodeling iare under way and the proximately 300,000 children she was continually confronted demand for volunteers has never under 18 years of age going with "sugar babies," starving in­ been higher. Equipment and hungry and living below the fants that she would nurse back to household items have been donated to the center, and while poverty level. lealth with sugar and water until they are not always in good "We realized that we are miss­ food could be given. One of these Thomas "Tommy" Zee, a of SUP for 35 years and an in­ ing the mark as a society. TTie rabies died in Porter's arms while repair, they are needed desperate­ leading figure in the Sailors' stmctor for 15 years. Brother social agencies are not getting to she was trying to nurse the child ly. The new building has a very Union of the Pacific (SUP), Zee was also a member of Na­ the root cause," Thompson jack to life. large kitchen and areas for child passed away May 30 at his tional Association of Maritime reflected. "Carol came to the realization care and in-house classrooms. Pacifica, Calif, home after a Educators. that thousands of kids in Houston According to Thompson, KID stroke. He was 68. Prepare Food for Delivery In 1991, Zee contributed the Brother Zee was a longtime call board of the former pas­ Volunteers from the Houston were starving. She went out into CARE hopes to use tWs area for ship. President community gather twice each day he neighborhoods and found after-school tutoring for children instmctor in seamanship at the senger to make sandwiches and various these starving kids and began who need addition^ educational Andrew Furuseth School of Roosevelt of American Presi­ Seamanship, mn by the Sailors' dent Lines (APL), to the Paul hot foods to deliver to the cooking in her own kitchen. She assistance. children. Vans crewed with addi­ opened her doors to everyone and SIU members QMED Virgil Union of the Pacific in San Hall Library and Maritime Museum. Zee made the call tional volunteers take the meals ed children and families out of Bolton and Wiper Jim Bowles Francisco. Born in Philadelphia, he board himself while he was ler own pockets. She is truly a have volunteered time and efforts individually to each child. "In general, it is a meals-on- remarkable woman," Thompson toward fixing some of the used served in the U.S. Army from deck yeoman aboard the ves­ wheels operation for kids. We explained. equipment that has been donated. 1945 to 1947. He was a member sel. also deliver snacks after the The organization is branching "We went over to the new ReGnd SUP Insbvctor Tommy Zee Dies at 68 Bold Strokes AB Vicari Brightens Sea-Land Producer with Mural Like his career with the SIU, AB Ray Vicari's unnamed mural which adoms a bulkhead aboard the Sea-Land Producer began on a whim but blossomed into some­ thing special. "I had no idea what I was geting into," Vicari said with a augh while recounting his recent jainting project. "The bosun Jack Edwards) asked me if I could do some art work for the ship. I painted a monkey in a tree, and then I just kept adding to it." Vicari, 40, spent six weeks of ree time adding to the mural, which he estimates covers a 50bot area on the second deck. The scenes include beaches, trees, other ships, golfers, islanders, a jar bearing Vicari's name, and more—"different things you might see in Hawaii," he said. "It was a slow process, mostly jecause I had to have the right weather) conditions," Vicari added. "But the crew really got into it. They gave me ideas and constantly checked it out. "I think it adds something to the ship." don't have much of a background in art, and I'd never done a mural before," he said. "I dabbed in painting in high school, and I used to draw a lot, but that's about it." Nevertheless, the shipboard mural sparked Vicari's interest in art, and he plans to purchase ad­ ditional painting supplies for his time on the beach. "As I get older, I can see myself getting into it more. The only problem with ^ing to make a living as an artist is, you don't make any money until you're dead! A resident of Rancho Santa Margarita, C^if., Vicari said he joined the Seafarers partially on a whim and partly due to the sug­ gestions from his uncle, the late Seafarer Peter Vicari. "I really had no idea this is what I would do as a career," said the AB, who formerly operated a landscaping business in California. "But I love it. It's a good way to make a living." ^i^ile Vicari, who upgraded at the Lundeberg School in 1981, plans to stick with shipping, he does not envision painting another mural anytime soon. "I don't have any more projects in the works," he said. "I've been working steady for al­ most two solid years. The Producer is a good ship with good people, but I'm ready for some time off." New Interest A graduate of the Seafarers Jarry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in 1978, Vicari said le is surprised at how well the mural turned out. "Honestly, I Brother Vicari's first mural, which started as a monkey in a tree, adorns a second-deck bulkhead aboard the Sea-Land Producer. I " �'-.y' 16 SEAFARERS LOG %• • •" Play Ball! m. MLm^ j '"- " ' AUGUST ms Seafarers Field New Team in Diego Garcia •n_' _i -r /-..i . 4.i_ _ A. I y* They made plenty of errors, (who supplied the team's Jerseys missed the cutoff man more than and caps), Saylors contacted the once and generally endured the league about having a team com­ struggles one would expect of prised of American seafarers first-year ballplayers. But for the (both unlicensed and licensed). Mariners Softball team, organized The league welcomed the earlier this year in Diego Garcia Mariners and allowed the team by SIU Recertified Bosun Rob not to have a set roster, because of Saylors, records were not all that sailing schedules for the vessels. important. All Games Played "We usually were competi­ Saylors reported that although tive, but the main point was to few practices were conducted provide another activity for our (they would have interfered with members," said Saylors, who the work schedule), and despite most recently sailed aboard the JEB Stuart. "We had a ball. It was the ships' participating in sea tri­ good exercise and everyone als, the Mariners did not forfeit seemed to enjoy it. Plus we got to any of their 14 regular season meet lots of other people, not only games. They also played in a few from the other teams but also tournaments. "Of course, there were times when \ye had no idea some of the locals," A graduate of the Lundeberg who was ashore until five minutes School in 1973, Saylors got the before game time!" Saylors idea to create a merchant noted. The co-ed league also has mariners' Softball team while he teams representing the British Because of work schedules, the Mariners did not have a set roster. But this group showed up for the team was watching local media Police force, U.S. Marine Corps, photo! Team members (both licensed and unlicensed seafarers) pictiired from left are (front row) Bosun coverage of the eight-team, slowU.S. Navy and others. John Higdon, Wiper Carlos Domingue, Bosun Rob Saylors, Mariner Brian Simpson and Charlie Wong, pitch league in Diego Garcia. Seafarer Carlos Domingue, manager of the local seaman's club, (back row) Jo Jo Santos, VondaBront, Chief Engineer Roger Marks, With help from Seaman's Club manager Charlie Wong who sails as a wiper aboard the Second Engineer Jim Sullivan, AB Tony Cheesebrow, Mike Dayo and AB Brian Redoute. Franklin Phillips, was the Mariners' pitcher during the team's inaugural season. (Oc­ casionally, in trying to make a point to an umpire or batter, Domingue would roll the ball across home plate.) During one game, the homeplate ump barked, "Illegal!" rather than "Ball," every time either pitcher failed to throw a strike. Domingue thereafter was known to his teammates as "Il­ legal," and he even had the nick­ name emblazoned on his jersey. Saylors said there are other ac­ tivities available for Seafarers working in Diego Garcia, such as bicycling, sailing catamarans, fishing, bowling and tours of other military vessels. "1 love it over there," the bosun said. "There's plenty of work, but there Bosun Rob Saylors, who provided the photos accompanying this are also a lot of fun things to do Wiper Carlos Domingue, shown here aboard the Franklin Phillips, during off hours." pitched for the Mariners softball team. article, tours a military ship in Diego Garcia. Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership's money and union finances. The con­ stitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by thesecretary-treasurer. A yearly finance committee of rankand-file members, elected by the mem­ bership, each year examines the fmances of the union and reports fiilly their findings and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommen­ dations and separate findings. . TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District are ad­ ministered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreements. All these agreements specify that the trustees in charge of these funds shall equally consist of union and management repre­ sentatives and their alternates. All ex­ penditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A ' member's shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copies of these contracts are posted and avail­ able in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniority rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writingdirectly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU mem­ ber works and lives aboard a ship or boat Members should know their con­ tract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believes that an SIU patrolman or other union offi­ cial fails to protect their contractual rights properly, he or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent EDITORIAL POLICY — THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers . - -r-' ' , •' LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposesof any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This estab­ lished policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September I960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one in­ dividual to carry out this respon­ sibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official union receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In the event anyone attempts to require any such payment be made withoutsupply­ ing a receipt, or if a member is requir^ to make a payment and is given an official receipt, but feels that he or she should not have been required to make such payment, this should inunediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SIU constitution are available in all union halls. AU members should obtain copies of this constitution, so as to familiarize themselves ,with its con­ tents. Any time a member feels any other member or officer is attempting to deprive him or her of any constitu­ tional right or obligation by any methods, such as dealing with char­ ges, trials, etc., as well as all other details, the member so affected should immediately notify head­ quarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Con­ sequently, no member may be dis­ criminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION — SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, further­ ing the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with im­ proved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advan­ cement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No con­ tribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of member­ ship in Ae union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by cer­ tified mail within 30 days of the con­ tribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if in­ voluntary. A member should sup­ port SPAD to protect and further his or her economic, political and so­ cial interests, and American trade union concepts. If at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of ac­ cess to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. "• -Kv-' i ^ i r.'. ..' •m .f>v5%Tu Ll-'ra :.r-, �Aueusrma SEAFMERSLOG Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea JUNE 16 ~ JULY 15,1993 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Cla^C •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Trip Reliefs ••H^GISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Oass A Class B Class C DECK DEPARTMENT Port 3 27 21 4 10 52 47 12 32 27 New York 5 3 3 2 13 2 8 1 1 Philadelphia 12 0 6 7 16 2 6 1 8 13 Baltimore " 23 23 7 13 8 2 5 11 18 20 Norfolk 5 7 1 1 16 24 9 20 1 15 Mobile 5 26 36 42 •, 7 7 17 31 New Orleans 25 50 46 9 21 4 25 1 V T'% 5 28 Jacksonville 25 45 14 49 .• 7 18 12 1 5 23 San Franciscof 21 25 1 5 15 9 12-% 16 ^•y-yS' rntm.. Wilmington 18 12 46 56 0 14 18 20 6 25 29 Seattle 4 20 4 4 1 2 5 3 0 Puerto Rico 12 10 8 24 10 9 5 11 8 7 14 Honolulu 16 S%-%41 •••• 40 4 ^ 6 21 24 7 30 31 Houston =?.:• 2 : 0 4 1 0 0 0 • 1 1 2 St. Louis 1 2 •••r. -1:. . 1 0 2 1 2 Piney Point 0 0 1 0 1 0 1 0 1 Algonac 109 386 421 44 73 192 179 267 58 244 Totals ENGINE DEPARTMENT Port 30 6 39 2 .5..:;%%:^^" 21 4 ••?S>:%-i-;18' 27 21 New York O;-' • , % B::, , •;()•:%: •• 1 5 7 . • : • • • 4 : 1 6 4 Philadelphia y >::t 8 14 ••• : 2 •. 7 %--"^0--..% 9 9 Baltimore 5 16 11 6 2 8 1 2 16 10 Norfolk 17 18 1 0 2 5 7 0 15 10 Mobile 9 28 29 0 1 7 13 2 16 New Orleans 14 40 19 23 1 ~ 3 • 10 9 6 22 Jacksonville 13 6 29 33 1 5 10 ^ 1118 4 San Francisco 15 18 4 21 4 . 1 8 10 Wilmington 11 7 34 24 V 0 5 6 11^ 0 18 19 Seattle i 12 1 0 0 1 4 0 0 8 Puerto Rico 6 5 19 7 4 6 10 13 4 Honolulu •: 4 •• 24 32 '8'. 18 Houston 0 • • 1 2 . 0 • 0 r-B%';0-' •• •• I 2 St. Louis 0 13 3 0 1 1 0 5 1 Piney Point 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 •• 0 1 0 Algonac 71 257 301 22 41 104 100 35 190 162 Totals STEWARD DEPARTMENT Port -.3 O'v'%B%aT0-.^;' 28 >%B17..; 16 0 New York lld^e 14 7 ;%^ 14 3 2 2 : 1 1 Philadelphia 0 l\. :•• • 0 1 0 . Syi Baltimore 3 8 10 2 6 7 1 1 7 3 Norfolk 1 14 11 0 0 3 2 0 6 9 Mobile 2 17 11 0 2 8 6 2 ... 9 New Orleans 13 •^ 2 29 11 1 4 2 0 • 0 6 Jacksonville 15 ^•B.r%4..82 29 0 5 19 3 9 San Francisco 28 :8:V :'%T18 0 4 10 :2:M 0 6 Wilmington 11 3 10 37 0 7 2 12 2 4 19 Seattle 2 0 7 0 1 0 4 1 0 8 Puerto Rico 19 33 15 13 24 8 9 11 23 11 Honolulu 7 -':%2'. 17 0 .7 5 6 Houston 0 2 1 0 0 0 , -Ty0 St. Louis 0, &il.6. 0 •; 2 2 0 r; Piney Point 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Algonac V •' • -.-mr-' , , V< Totals 101 153 21 '< ^ 283 19 75 58 100 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 3' • o.:-;0:••• M9. 27 7 0 3 : Brr-U 0 2 B '.-M • 3 0 0 2 •%w%'^' 0 7 2 0 22 1 0 1 0 7 1 11 0 0 9 4 'M-7' 1 •-r? 0 • 9 39 0 0 5 7 9 3 0 5 5 16 0 0 11 4 6 0 0 0 2 10 82 0 34 3 4 • 1 • 0 9 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 22 I 0 0 0 0 0 131 96 0 164 39 171 44 Port 36 12 35 8 New York 8 2 0 Philadelphia 1 12 0 8 0 Baltimore 14 24 7 22 2 Norfolk 1 21 0 7 0 Mobile 20 34 5 14 New Orleans 7 14 40 6 18 4 Jacksonville 27 48 9 12 San Francisco 14 12 20 3 14 5 Wilmington 13 28 4 18 10 Seattle 12 15 4 8 0 Puerto Rico 146 71 99 49 5 Honolulu 9 29 3 20 ' 2 Houston 0 3 0 0 0 St. Louis 20 1 0 30 0 Piney Point 0 4 0 3 0 Algonac 314 443 158 260 57 Totals Totals All 1.057 1336 538 189 672 231 418 272 818 Departments 616 * 'Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month, ** "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. A total of 1306 jobs were shipped on SlU-contracted deep sea vessels. Of the 1^06 jobs shipped, 418 jobs or about 32 percent were taken by "A" seniority members. The rest were filled by "B" and «C" seniority people. From June 16 to July 15,1993, a total of 196 trip relief jobs were shipped. Since the trip relief pro­ gram began on April 1,1982, a total of 19,115 jobs have been shipped. • - sr J i; I - 17 . . September & October 1993 Membership tJMetings Deep Sea, Lakes, Inland Waters Piney Point Tuesday: September 7*, Monday; October 4 'changed by Labor Day holiday New York Tuesday: September 7, October 5 Philadelphia Wednesday: September 8, October 6 Baltimore Thursday: September 9, October 7 Norfolk Thursday: September 9, October 7 Jacksonville Thursday: September 9, October 7 Algonac Friday: September 10, October 8 Houston Monday: September 13, October 11 New Orleans Tuesday: September 14, October 12 Mobile Wednesday, September 15, October 13 San Francisco Thursday: September 16, October 14 Wilmington Monday: September 20, October 18 Seattle Friday, September 24, October 22 San Juan Thursday: September 9, October 7 St Louis Friday: September 17, October 15 Honolulu Friday: September 17, October 15 Duluth Wednesday, September 15, October 13 Jersey City Wednesday: September 22, October 20 New Bedford Tuesday: September 21, October 19 f ? •M -:: .3 Each port's meeting starts at 10:30 a.mi Personals SHIPMATES OF JOSEPH RIPLEY Joseph Ripley would like to hear from his former shipmates aboard the OMISacramento which sailed to Riga, Latvia in February 1992. Ripley's address is 3221 Grey Dolphin, Las Vegas, NY 89117. FRIENDS OF JAMES E. HILL James E. Hill would like to hear from any mem­ bers who sailed with him. He may be reached at 2212 East Henry Avenue, A&B Building, Tampa, FL 33610. WATCH PARTNER WITH WILLIAM ROGERS Will the AB who was a watch partner with Wil­ liam Rogers aboard the William Hooper (Waterman Steamship) from October 7, 1981 to June 3, 1982 write him at 322 Lakeside Boulevard East, Waterbury, CT 06708. He lost your address. Notice •'Mnm .y • •: ATTENTION: Membership - Port of Seattle Virginia Mason Clinic will offer flu shots and blood draws for benzene tests on Wednesday, November 10, between the hours of9:00 -11:30 a.m. and 1:00 - 3:30 p.m. at the Seattle hall, located at 2505 1st Avenue. Any member interested in using this benefit should call the hall between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. on November 8 or November 9; (206) 441-1960. / In order to utilize this benefit, a member must qualify under the rules of the plan (includingproof of 120 days seatime in 1992 and 1 day of employ­ ment in the last six months). w �•••<^ - , 'V 18 •'K •i v. Seafarers International Union Directory Hi'i' B..J , •/ •• /•vv l - • -\v/ AUGUST 1993 SEAFARERS LOG Michael Sacco President John Fay Secretary-Treasurer Joseph Sacco Executive Vice President Augustin Tellez Vice President Collective Bargaining George McCartney Vice President West Co oast Roy A. "Buck" Mercer Vice President Government Services Jack Caffey Vice President Atlantic Coast Byron Kelley. Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Co Vice President ulf Coast HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way arings, MD 20746 Camp Sgr (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr. Algonac, MI 48001 (313)794-4988 BALTIMORE 1216 E. Baltimore St. Baltimore, MD 21202 (410)327-4900 DULUTH 705 Medical Arts Building Duluth.MN 55802 (218)722-4110 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St. Honolulu, HI 96819 (808)845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St. Houston, TX 77002 (713)659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St. Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JERSEY CITY 99 Montgomery St. Jersey City, NJ 07302 (201)435-9424 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy. Mobile, AL 36605 (205)478-0916 NEW BEDFORD 48 Union St. New Bedford, MA 02740 (508) 997-5404 NEW ORLEANS 630 Jackson Ave. New Orleans, LA 70130 (504) 529-7546 NEW YORK 675 Fourth Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718)499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St. Norfolk, VA 23510 (804)622-1892 PHILADELPHIA OMUl ^ 4 Stt Philadelphia," PA 19148 (215)336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75 Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 2 West Dixie Highway Dania,FL 33004 (305)921-5661 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St. San Francisco, CA 94105 (415)543-5855 Government Services Division (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave. Stop l6Vi Santurce, PR 00907 (809) 721-4033 SEATTLE 2505 First Ave. Seattle, WA 98121 (206)441-1960 ST. LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave. St Louis, MO 63116 ^ (314)752-6500 WILMINGTON 510N. Broad Ave. Wilmington, CA 90744 (310)549-4000 •y r. /• / Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes •— JUNE 16 — JULY 15,1993 CL—Company/Lakes L—Lakes NP—^Non Priority •TOTAL REGISTERED AH Groups Class CL Class L Class NP Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac 0 21 2 0 9 6 0 0 • ' 0 9 10 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP DECK DEPARTMENT 0 49 3 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 34 6 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 10 0 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 ••REGISTEl^D ON BEACH Class CL Class L Class NP 41^ 0 18 0 ••Om 0 Totals All Departments 0 45 17 0 93 9 0 39 * "Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. 33 Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters JUNE 16 •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Region 5 Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast 7 Lakes & Inland Waters ; ' y-iy" 22 West Coast 0 Totals 34 Region Atlantic Coast 2 Gulf Coast Lakes & Inl^i|3!^|^ West Coast 0 Totals 25 Region Atlantic Coast 2 Gulf Coast 0 A Lakes & Inland Waters 4 West Coast 0 Totals 6 W:' Totals All Departments 65 0 2 0 0 2 0 15 19 34 3 0 2 0 3 0 2 0 1 0 2 0 2 4 JULY 15,1993 2 2 n U 1 2 0 2 0 4 7 iM: 50 0 25 61 29 2 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 l- - ••REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C DECK DEPARTMENT 40 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 5 STEWARD DEPARTMENT Q 0 1 0 0 2 0 3: 0 0 2 1 6 0 3 72 32 45 9 41 4 99 2 3 0 1 6 0 4 / 2 5 0 35 0 3 0 5 . 0 0 7 0 6 13 3 0 o ' 1 13 2 Im 1 3 147 12 84 * "Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. ** "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. Corrections Mistaken Identity Northern Lights Sailed as Puerto Rico Before Heading to M^esf Coasf On page 28 of the July 1993 issue, the Seafarers LOG published a story on the Northern Lights, a roll-on/roll-off vessel operated by Interocean Management for Totem Ocean Trailer Express (TOTE). The Northern Lights was beginning operations on a West Coast-run between Tacoma, Wash, and Anchorage, Alaska. In writing the histoiy of the Northern Lights, the LOG mistakenly used infor­ mation on the Northern Light, a Ready Reserve Force (RRF) dry cargo freighter operated by American Presi­ dent Lines. The Northern Lights, the vessel fea­ tured in the story, is the former Puerto Rico. It was delivered in January 1975 to Transamerican Trailer Transport. When Puerto Rico Marine Management, Inc. (PRMMl) was formed later that year, it acquired the vessel in December 1975. As a PRMMl ship, it was crewed by Seafarers. The RO/RO sailed in the Puer­ to Rico trade and made an occasional charter voyage to the Middle East. At the end of 1988, the vessel was laid up when PRMMl replaced its RO/ROs with containerships. In July 1991, TOTE purchased the leasing company that owned the Puerto Rico. The ship was overhauled, lengthened to 744 feet and renamed the Northern Lights before it sailed to the West Coast. The other vessel, the Northern Light, is a C-3 freighter that was built in 1961. As part of the RRF fleet, it sailed during the Persian Gulf conflict. The Seafarers LOG thanks James R. Shinners, vice president for vessel opera­ tions at PRMMl, for providing the his­ tory of the Puerto Rico. We apologize for any confusion the story may have created. The Northern Lights sails between Tacoma, Wash, and Anchorage, Alaska. Thd RO/RO vessel Is the former Puerto Rico. A photograph on page 10 of the July 1993 Seafarers LOG incorrectly iden­ tified two members aboard the LNG Aries as Chief Cook Udjang Nurdjaja and Wiper Victor Serrano, who are the menabers in the photo above. The cor­ rect identity of the Seafarers (in photo below) whose picture ran in the LOG last month is AB Bert Gillis and QMED Steven Hoskins. We apologize for the error. v •- 'h • �jumsri993 SEAFARERS LOG To Our New Pensioners ... Thanks for a Job Well Done Each month in the Seafarers LOG, the names and brief biographies ofSIU members who recently have become pen­ sioners appear. These men and women have served the maritime industry well, and the SIU and all their union brothers and sisters wish them happiness and health in the days ahead. T he Seafarers Pension Plan this month announces the retirements of 18 members. Twelve of those signing off sailed in the deep sea division, while three sailed in the inland division, two in the Great Lakes division and one in the railroad marine division. Three of the retirees were bom in Pennsylvania, while two each were bom in Alabama and New Jersey. Texas, Michigan, Massachussetts, Louisana, Maryland, Georgia, Spain, Arabia, the Philippines, Costa Rica and Honduras ac­ count for one retiree apiece. Ten of the eighteen signing off served in the U.S. armed forces: six served in the Nav^, three in the Army and one in the Marine Corps. Nick Alexander had been an active Seafarer longer than any of the other new pensioners. He joined the union in 1947 in the port of Galveston, Texas. Brief biographical sketches of Brother Alexander and the other new pensioners follow. DEEP SEA NICK ALEXANDER, 65, joined the Seafarers in 1947 in the port of Galveston, Texas. A Texas native, he sailed in the deck department. Brother Alexander served in the U.S. Army from 1946 to 1947. He retired to Texas City. CARLOS COELLO, 65, joined the union in 1969 in the port of New York. Bom in Hon­ duras, he sailed as a QMED. Brother Coello upgraded at the Ltmdeberg School in 1986. He resides in Metairie, La. WARREN UESEGANG, 65, joined the Sea­ farers in 1967 in the port of Jack­ sonville, Fla. Bom in New Jersey, he sailed as a QMED. Brother Liesegang upgraded frequently at Piney Point. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1950 to 1955. Broker Liesegang retired to Ft. Pierce, Fla. the Lundeberg School in 1975. He lives in San Francisco. COY HENDRICKS, 70, joined the SIU in 1950 in the port of Jacksonville, Fla. A Georgia native, he sailed as a chief cook. Brother Hendricks served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to 1945. He resides in Pinehurst, Texas. JOHN QUINTER, 57, joined the SIU in 1969 in the port of Bal­ timore. A na­ y •. . J*J n tive of 4 Reading, Pa., he sailed as a QMED. Brother Quinter retired to Jack­ son, Fla. V GLEN TENLEY, 65,joined the Sea­ farers in 1953 in the port of New York. A Pennsyl­ vania native, he sailed in the deck department. He upgraded at Piney Point in 1982. Brother Tenley served in the U.S. Navy from 1948 to 195?. He resides in Perkasie, Pa. HENRY GROMEK, 66, joined the union in 1950 in the port of New York. Bom in Bal­ timore, he sailed in the steward depart­ ment. Brother Gromek still calls Baltimore home. JAMES SIVLEY, 64, joined the SIU in 1968 in the port of Seat­ tle. A Decatur, Ala. native. he sailed as a chief cook. Brother Sivley served in the U.S. Army from 1943 to 1968. He retired to Demings, N.M. ALFRED ROY, 65, joined the union in 1967 in the port of Houston. Bom in St. OLMAN Martinville, MORALES, La., he sailed as a QMED. He 78, joined upgraded at Piney Point in the union in 1974. Brother Roy served in 1955 in the the U.S. Army from 1953 to port of Bal­ 1955. He still calls St. Martin­ timore. A na­ ville home. tive of Costa Rica, he sailed in the engine department. GUILLERMO DOMINGUEZ, 68, joined the Seafarers Brother Morales upgraded at in 1973 in the port of Yokohama, Japan. A native of Cavite, Philippines, he sailed as a chief cook. Brother Dominguez served in the U.S. Navy from 1945 to 1965. He still calls Cavite home. LIONEL SHAW, 59, joined the SIU in 1970. in the port of San Fran­ cisco. A Mas­ sachusetts native, he sailed in the deck department. Brother Shaw upgraded at the Lundeberg School in 1978. He served in the U.S. Army from 1951 to 1957. Brother Shaw resides in Shirley, Mass. INLAND GEORGE HERBISON, 65, joined the Seafarers in 1965 in the port of New York. A New Jersey native, he sailed in the deck department. Boatman Herbison lives in Guttenberg, N.J. ORRIE ODOM,62, joined the union in 1956 in the port of Mobile, Ala. An Alabama native, he sailed as a captain. Boatman Odom served in the U.S. Army from 1950 to 1952. He retired to Atmore, Ala. GEORGE LeMAIRE, 55, joined the SIU in 1956 in the port of Baltimore. Bom in Pennsylvania, he sailed in the deck department. Boatman LeMaire served in the U.S. Marine Corps in 1954. He retired to Edgewood, Md. 19 •• •f' 'P': Holttiap ^eakon M Slukt !3rounti tfir Comer One feature in theSeafarers LOG that has been extreme­ ly well received over the past two years is the inclusion of holiday greetings in the December issue. Active and retired Seafarers—as well as their family members—are invited to send their greetings to friends, shipmates and loved ones through the pages of the LOG. The procedure is simple. In 25 words or less (and in your neatest PRINTING possible), write the message in the space provided below. All (legible) greetings that are written in the holiday spirit will be included in the December 1993 issue of the Seafarers LOG, if they are received in time. The deadline for receipt of the holiday messages is » *, Friday, November 12, 1993. At! * ! Send them by mail to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. After November 1, fac­ simile copies will be ac­ cepted. The fax number is (301) 702-4407. Forms also may be filled out in any union hall and turned in to the official at the counter—or may be given to the boarding patrolman at a vessel's payoff. . • . "A;. ''0. p. Holttia;* iltesikase (PLEASE PRINT OR TYPE) M To: From:. Message:. GREAT LAKES MANEH AHMED, 64, joined the union in 1960 in the port of Detroit. Bom in Arabia, he sailed as a porter in the steward department. Brother Ahmed resides in Dearbom, Mich. RAYMOND KLINE, 65, joined the Seafarers in 1959 in the port of Aljena, Mich. A native of Roger City, Vfich., he sailed as a watchman. Jrother Kline calls Alpena • • ppyypyp P- liome. M- RAILROAD MARINE JOSE CARBALLO, 62, joined the SIU in 1960 in the port of New York. A na­ tive of Spain, he sailed in the deck department. Brother Carballo retired to Woodside, N.Y. Check the block which describes your status with the SIU: • Active Seafarer • Family Member of Active Seafarer • Retired Seafarer • Family Member of Retired Seafarer Send your greeting to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. The greeting should be received at the LOG office by Friday, November 12,1993. 8/93 •• •• • • �20 AUGUST1993 •'^A XAFAWISLOG -•» Chile Is Next Stop in Seafarer's Quest for Knowledge While in Singapore, he held a job Seeing the world is not unique they are experiencing to provision ships in the harbor. Gaveiek was able to explore for Seafarers. It comes with the "I noticed the foreign ships job for members of the deep sea his quest for information about had three different galleys when division. However, one deck urban planning after winning a we'd take stores aboard," department member has used his two-year Seafarers scholarship in pursuit of knowledge as a ticket 1982. The funds allowed him to Gaveiek recalled. 'The officers to see and learn more about the gain a bachelor's degree in urban had the nicest; they would eat people, conditions and geography studies from Cleveland State lobster. Then there's the one for University in 1984. (He had the unlicensed; they would eat of Planet Earth. James Gaveiek, a 1975 received one of the first associate shrimp. Finally there would be graduate of the Seafarers Haip^ of arts degrees in nautical science the one for the non-white crewLundeberg School of Seamanship from Charles County Conununity members; they would eat a low trainee class 187, is preparing to College in Maryland in 1981.) grade of fish. spend the next two years in Chile "Singapore has approximately Studied Pollution as a member of the Peace Coips. 500 ship movements a day, so I The Cleveland native con­ got to see everything from U.S. After attending an intensive tinued sailing as he worked on a and European supertankers to old three-month program to learn the master's degree in urban studies. and deplorable tramp freighters. language and culture of the South In 1989 he received a scholarship The jobs mariners do are the same; American nation, Gaveiek ex­ from the North Atlantic Treaty it's Ae conditions that differ." pects to be placed at the Univer­ Organization (NATO) to study sity of Bio's school of Gaveiek also taught 13-yearthe effects of petroleum pollution administration in Concepcidn to olds during his 10 months in Sin­ design a graduate-level public ad­ on the oceans. As part of his rer- gapore. "I was teaching general ministration program which will search into the topic, Gaveiek was science to gifted students," he train urban planners and city one of the first Seafarers to said. "I couldn't get them enough graduate from the Lundeberg managers. School's oil spill prevention and materials." "The Peace Corps has told us Upon returning to the United not to go to Chile just to lecture containment course. States earlier this year, Gaveiek ap­ The following year, Gaveiek and teach others," Gaveiek told a plied to the Peace Corps, as one of reporter for the Seafarers LOG. presented his pollution paper in many applications he filed to con­ "Tliey told us to be ready to leam. Brest, France and received his tinue learning more about people master's degree from Cleveland I am looking forward to it." and conditions in the world among The 39-year-old will be State. After sailing for a couple of his "more than 1,(XX) requests for among 28 other Americans com- months, he headed to Sri Lanka to scholarships and jobs overseas and jiising the first Peace Corps team start work on his doctorate. He in Chile in more than 10 years. was not able to complete it be­ in this country." Within six weeks, The group is composed of en­ cause of the civil war that was his application was accepted and he vironmentalists, small business taking place in the island nation was making his plans to leave. operators and urban p»lanners. All southeast of India. "The last time I took any Spanish of them will be living with From Sri Lanka, Gaveiek was 25 years ago when I was in James Gaveiek, pictured here at the Lundeberg School in 198^^111 amilies so they can "leam better worked and studied in Hong secondary school. I know I'll have and quicker" about the culture ^ong, Singapore and Malaysia. to work on it." teach in Chile later this year as a Peace Corps volunteer. New Book Traces Life of ^Emancipator of American Seamen* When Arnold Berwick was 14 years old, his father was in a Sari Francisco hospital. Despite the fact that he was recovering from an accident, he told his son to take a look at the patient across the hall because he is "a good Norwegian ... name is Andrew Furuseth." Thus began the fascination Berwick has maintained for the man who was the founder of the Sailors' Union of the Pacific and who almost singlehandedly pressed for passage of the Mer­ chant Marine Act of 1915 which provided basic civil rights for American mariners. This interest reached its culmination when Berwick's biography of Furuseth (The Abraham Lincoln of the Sea) was published earlier this year. The fast-reading book describes the San Francisco waterfront when Furuseth began his efforts to help his fellow mariners in the late 1800s, his work on behalf of merchant mariners through legislation and organized labor and his friendship with Senator Robert LaFollette that finally secured passage of the Merchant Marine Act of 1915. the true discoveries came when the daughter of a fellow Nor­ wegian who had lived at the San Francisco Norwegian Club presented him with a photograph of the young maritime labor leader. LIfelohg Fascination No one knew the photo even existed because Furuseth was famous for not wanting to sit for a portrait until a merchant mariner's bill had passed Con­ gress and was signed by the presidenL Berwick said. It is believed the photo was taken in the 1890s when he first traveled to Washington, D.C. to lobby for "In San Francisco at the Nor­ wegian Club, there hangs a pic­ ture of Andrew Furuseth, but no one really c6uld tell me anything other than he was a sailor and had something to do with unions," said Berwick, who recently visited the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. to do research on a book about Furuseth's suc­ cessor at the SUP, Harry Lun­ deberg. "I decided if my father said I should see Furuseth, and the Brothers Reunited aboard Sea-Land Atlantic Seafarer and Chief Cook Edward Rustandi (left) hosted a special guest in the galley of the Sea-Land Atlantic, his brother Hanafi Rustandi—the secretary of the Indonesian Seafarers Union. Hanafi Rustandi was visiting South Florida when he discovered his brother's vessel would be docking at Port Everglades during his stay. The surprise meeting was the first time in two years that the brothers had seen each other. ; .'/ • „•/ -i: Rare Photo Found manners. "I came to admire Furuseth so much that I wanted others to know him," the author noted. "He devoted his whole life to helping others. Men like this should not be forgotten." For those who would like to assist Berwick in the research of his book on Lundeberg or those who have information about Furuseth, the author may be con­ tacted through his publisher at Odin Press, 511 Summit Drive, Santa Cruz, CA 95060. Also, copies of the Furuseth book are available through Odin Press for $19.95 (plus $2.50 for postage and handling). Author Arnold Berwick pores through copies of the Seafarers LOG from the 1950s for informa­ tion about Harry Lundeberg. club thought enough about him to hang his picture, then someone ought to publish his life history." What started out as a magazine article grew into a book, Berwick noted. "The more I could find out about him, the more I wanted to know. Unfortunately, Andrew Furuseth had no family and was a very private man." After beginning his research in the libraries and old newspapers of the San Francisco area, Ber­ wick made contact with several retired mariners who remem­ bered seeing and working with Furuseth before he died in 1938. Berwick also was able to take ad­ vantage of materials collected by Karl Kortum of the San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park. He spent approximately three years working on the book. Although Berwick never sailed (he was a lawyer and con­ tractor before retiring), his Nor­ wegian heritage came into play as Published in 1993, this biography traces the life of Andrew Furuseth he researched Furuseth. One of who devoted his life to securing freedom and justice for all seamen. <•- M .."ll I : i p- '•/•f �•J, "V!v''-. J*V;"-.4.'n'f/>v/.";->'*V> iv',:vr;;..y-'^.' AUGUST 1993 The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of the minutes of union shipboard meetings as possibie. On occasion, i)ecause of space limitations, some win be omitted. Ships minutes first are reviewed by the union's contiiKt department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships minutes. The minutes are then for­ warded to the Seafarers LOG. i '4 SEAFARERS LOG JDelegate Rafael Cardenas. ChairIrian acknowledged letter from con­ tracts department regarding negotiations. He reported veSSel in good order upon boarding. Secretary thanked deck and engine department for taking care of needs of steward department. Educational director urged members to attend Paul Hall Center to upgrade skills and reminded crew school is open year round. Treasurer reported $156 in ship's fund. Disputed OT reported by steward delegate. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported by deck or engine delegates. Crew reported Seafarers LOGs distributed and put in crew lounge. Chairman and crew gave spe­ cial vote of thanks for job well done on Seafarers LOGs and to keep up great work because crew is depend­ ing on it Crew gave unanimous vote of thanks to steward department for variety of good stores and cleanli­ ness. Llhairman reminded crew to keep noise down in passageways. Next port: Nagoya, Japan. 1STLT. JACK LUMMUS Secretary R.K. Ward, Educational (Amsea), January 24—Chairman S. Director E. A. RIchman, Deck Melendez, Secretary L. Oram, Delegate Joseph Allum, Engine Educational Director S.Anderson, Delegate Charles DiGristine, Deck Delegate P. Grady, Engine Steward Delegate Stanley KrysDelegate P. Happel, Steward tosiak. Chairman read letter from Delegate E. Loret. Chairman dis­ Puerto Rico Marine about serving cussed benefits available at Piney extra meals in port and reported crew Point and encouraged members to needs new washing machine! stick together and take advantage of Secretary announced payoff and opportunities. Treasurer reported reminded crew not to mix plastics $100 in ship's fund. Chairman with garbage. Educational director reported new Lundeberg School reminded members to upgrade skills LONG L//VES (Transoceanic course guide posted. Crew asked con­ at Lundeberg School. No beefs or dis­ Cable), March 17—Chairman Perfectracts department to telex ship with in­ puted OT reported. Crew reported to Amper, Secretary M. Bonsignore, formation regarding restriction and new Seafarers LOGs received and all Educational Director M. Las Duce, danger pay for crew while in crewmembers enjoy reading thein. Deck Delegate Franklin Gonsalves, Somalia. Crew thanked Seafarers Crew asked contracts department to Steward Delegates P. Paris!. LOG for added efforts in getting look into extended hospitalization or Treasurer reported $5(X) in ship's papers to Somalia and reminded emergency ship leave. Crew re­ fiind. Chairman reported daily bus everyone that Lummus was first SIU quested new TV and VCR for crew shuttle to and from downtown Seat­ ship in Somalia. lounge and reported tiles in crew tle. Crew requested steak knives, living quarters, mess hall and lounge soup spoons, variety of breakfast SGT. WILLIAM R. BUTTON need repair. Crew gave vote of thanks juices, ice cream and fresh fmiL (Amsea), January 14—Chairman S. to galley gang for job well done. Berschger, Secretary K, White, MAYAGUEZ(Puerto Rico Marine), Educational Director M. Cruz, En­ SAM HOUSTON(Waterman Steam­ March 31—Chairman Al Caulder, gine Delegate T. Christensen, ship Co.), February 28—Chairman Secretary R.K. Ward, Educational Steward Delegate L. Teague. Educa­ Carlos Canales, Secretary Ernie Director E.A. Richman, Deck tional director discussed necessity for Hoitt, Deck Delegate Bennie Spen­ Delegate J. Allum, Engine Delegate upgrading and job security. Treasurer cer, Engine Delegate William C. Digristin, Steward Delegate S. reported $250 in ship's fund. Crew Smith, Steward Delegate Nelson Krystosiak. Chairman reported crew asked contracts department to look Corey Jones. Secretary reported all needs new dishwasher. Secretary into registration and discharge regula­ union forms including vacation forms reported Seafarers LOGs received. tions for crewmembers on vessels. have been received. He reminded Educational director urged all union brothers and sisters to upgrade at Lun­ members to donate to SPAD. Educa­ Next port: Saipan. tional director encouraged members deberg School and be ready for chal­ AMERICAN KESTREL (Osprey to go to Piney Point to upgrade skills lenges of maritime industry. Steward Shipping), February 15—Chairman and earning power! No beefs or dis­ delegate reported disputed OT. No Carl Richer, Secretary Clarence puted OT. Crewmembers reported beefs or disputed OT reported by Clanton, Steward Delegate Brenda Seafarers LOG questionnaire deck or engine delegates. Crew re­ Cheatham. Secretary read previous received and will be sent from Suez quested new dryer, VCR and toaster minutes. Steward delegate requested Canal. Crew asked contracts depart­ as well as floor tiles be repaired. Next new agreement include job descrip­ port: Jacksonville, Fla. ment to look into changing current tions. Crew reminded special ship­ retirement plan to retirement at any OMI CHAMPION(OMl Corp.), board meal will be prepared on age with 20 years sea time instead of March 14—Chairman J.R. Colanelo, March 19. 55 years old with 20 years sea time. Secretary C.C. Hollings HI, Educa­ GLOBAL AM/7/AJE/7(Transoceanic Crew noted plan should be fitted to tional Director J. Bonelli, Deck amount of sea time. Crew reported Cable), February 22—Chairman Delegate Errick Nohles, Engine box springs ordered but not yet Nikolaus Keydei, Secretary B. Delegate Junius Williams Jr., Gross, Educational Director B. Stear- received. Crew thanked steward Steward Delegate Daniel Crawford. department for job well done. Next man. Deck Delegate Paul Latorre, Educational director announced Lun­ port: Alexandria, Egypt. Engine Delegate Richard deberg School upgrading applications Tankersiey. Chairman announced available. No beefs or disputed OT AMERICAN CORMORANT payoff and reported union repre­ reported. Crew requested new wash­ (Pacific Gulf Marine), March 22— sentative will be present. Educational Chairman C. Simmons, Secretary ing machine, ice machine, TV and director reminded members to remote control. Crew thanked Darryl Goggins, Educational Direc­ upgrade at Piney Point. Steward steward department for job well tor Lamar Parker, Deck Delegate delegate reported beef. No beefs or done. Next port: Pascagoula, Miss. Charles Kllm, Steward Delegate disputed OT reported by deck or en­ Robert Wright. Educational director OMI DYNACHEM(OMl Corp.), gine delegates. Crew reported urged members to seek training at March 22—Chairman Larry Kunc, Seafarers LOGs received in Hawaii. Lundeberg School and reported on Secretary Steven Wagner, Education­ Chairman reminded crew to keep new books in ship's library. Crew al Director Randy Snay, Deck hatches closed during night hours, asked contracts department to contact Delegate Billy Hill, Engine Delegate otherwise men on bridge watch can't company regarding crew wages. Richard Rodgers, Steward Delegate see. Next port: Baltimore. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley P.R. Mena. Chairman announced gang for fine job by Steward/Baker LNG C>lP#?/CO/?A/(ETC), ship scheduled for Jacksonville, Fla., Goggins, Chief Cook Wright and SA Februaiy 21—Chairman Aubrey Houston, then Mobile, Ala. He Bertrand Macary. Next port: South­ Waters, Secretary J.L. Gibbons, reported captain has not received Educational Director D. Bushy, Deck hampton, England. word from office if and when crew Delegate D. Adams, Engine Delegate ITB MOBILE(Sheridan Transporta­ will be laid off. Educational director Thomas Harris, Steward Delegate encouraged members to upgrade at tion), March 28—Chairman Fred G. Taylor. Chairman complimented Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT Jensen, Secretary Pedro Sellan, crew on being first class without com­ Educational Director J. Quinten, reported. Crew asked contracts plaints or angry words. He told crewDeck Delegate John Rawley, Engine department to look into giving members it is gratifying to see lounge Delegate Jeffrey Roddy, Steward steward department one hour weekly clean and orderly and food prepared for cleaning rooms and provide extra Delegate Theodore Quammie. by hands of experience. He stated his Chairman asked contracts department OT for department when extra pleasure in seeing people enjoy workers are carried on ship. Next to give careful review to new ITB friendship and food. Treasurer port: Jacksonville. contract concerning food budget. reported $445 in ship's fund and Secretary reported smooth sailing. crew voted to buy microwave. No OMI STAR (OMI Corp.), March 7— Educational director stated "Educa­ beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew Chairman R. Allen, Secretary G. tion Pays!" and encouraged members asked contracts department to look ienny. Educational Director M, to keep upgrading at Lundeberg into increasing monthly retirement al­ School. No beefs or disputed OT Smith, Deck Delegate Larry Mclotment. Crew discussed using Cants, Engine Delegate Walter Sarreported. Crew gave special vote of United Airlines instead of JAL and : ;ent. Steward Delegate Bertrand thanks to galley gang for well per­ stated most members do not know Wright. Chairman announced ship formed job. Next port: Stapleton, there is choice besides JAL. Crew out of shipyard with Mobile, Ala. ^.Y. thanked steward department for job crewup. He announced payoff and well done. Next port: Sakai, Japan. LNG AQUARIUS(ETC), ] vlarch 5— reported speaking to captain about replacing washer. Secretary thanked Chairman Thomas "Sam" Brooks, crew for cooperation in helping main­ Secretary Thomas Wyho, Engine AMy4G(/£Z(Puerto Rico Marine), tain mess hall and lounge, ^ucationDelegate Bruce Zenon, Steward February 17—Chairman Al Caulder, al director advised crew to keep safety in mind and reminded all to wear masks while working tanks and wear respirators while on deck for ex­ tended time. Deck delegate reported disputed OT to be discussed with patrolman at payoff. Steward delegate report^ disputed OT and discussed questions regarding portion control of food products. No bwfs or disputed OT reported by engine delegate. Crew discuss^ Seafarers LOG questionnaire on how to im­ prove delivery of papers to crewmem­ bers. Crew asked contracts department to look into improving reimbursement for transportation. Crew reported dryers and TV need repair. Crew requested sofa for lounge and gave big vote of thanks to steward department for job well done. OVERSEAS JOYCE (Maritime Overseas), March 21—Chairman R. Bradford, Secretary P. Alvarez. Chairman announced payoff. Secretary reminded members to donate to SPAD. Educational director advised members to upgrade at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT. Seafarers LOGs distributed to crew­ members. Crew asked contracts 21 Pontiflet, Steward Delegate Francis­ co Rosich. Chairman reported week­ ly meetings to continue at sea. He stressed upgrading at Piney Point and importance of SPAD. Chairman provided members with list of all SIU ships and voiced hope for new ad­ ministration to keep Sea-Land and APL from going foreign flag. He stressed importance of writing con­ gressmen about saving maritime in­ dustry, No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed importance of reading president's report in Seafarers LOG. Crew also asked con­ tracts department to look into im­ proved medical and dental programs for members and dependents. Crew requested new VCR. SEA-LAND CRUSADER(SeaLand Service), March 30—Chairman Angel Hernandez, Secretary N. Andrews, Educational Director Os­ wald Bermeo, Deck Delegate Ben Berherena, Engine Delegate Edgar Young, Steward Delegate Rudolf Xatruck. Engine delegate reported beef. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck or steward delegates. Crew asked contracts department to look into providing AB A Job Well Done The steward department aboard the RFC Eugene A. Obregon has been recognized by the ship's crew as "one of the best" and deserving of special recognition. From the left are SAs Jason Pechette and Bryan Ellis, ACU James Collins, Chief Cook Mariano Martinez and Steward/Baker Patrick Helton. Pechette and Ellis are fresh out of Piney Point and "are doing great work," according to QMED Bud Tuttle, who sent this photo to the LOG. department to look into shipboard promotions for unlicensed crewmemr bers. Crew gave special thanks to gal­ ley gang for very clean ship and good food served during long trip. Next port: Jacksonville, Fla. SAMUEL L. COBB (Ocean Shipholding), March 14—Chairman H.G. Bentz, Secretary Anthony Rivera, Educational Director Rusty Kindred, Deck Delegate Paul Marra, Engine Delegate Rodney Pontiflit, Steward Delegate Francis­ co Rosich. Chairman reported week­ ly union meetings to be held according to union contract. He stressed importance of upgrading at Paul Hall Center to better self. Chair­ man stated members of Samuel Cobb welcome Chief Steward Rivera and Chief Cook Rosich. Chairman stressed unity and encouraged mem­ bers to read Seafarers LOG especial­ ly president's report. He urged members to donate to SPAD and to get involved in political process for maritime industry. He encouraged members always to be available to do SIU picket duty with pride. Secretary also stressed upgrading opportunities available at Lundeberg School. No )eefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked contracts department to look nto putting radios in mess hall. Crew requested bracket holding ice scooper jy ice machine to keep dirty hands 1 rom contaminating clean ice. Crew reported VCR needs cleaning or re­ placement. SAMUEL L. COBB (Ocean Shipholding), March 21—Chairman H.G. Bentz, Secretary Anthony Jvera, Educational Director Rusty Undr^ Deck Delegate Paul Marra, Engine Delegate Rodney on bridge watch with chair. Entire crew and captain gave vote of thanks to galley gang for job well done. Next port: San Juan. SEA-LAND SPIRIT(Sea-Land Ser­ vice), March 14—Chairman Chris­ topher Lopiccio, Secretary H. Curry. Chairman gave special thanks to galley gang members Chief Cook Nagi Muthala, GSU Amin Mohamed, and Chief Steward Ciirry. Educational director urged all mem­ bers to go to Paul Hall Center to ad­ vance in industry. Treasurer reported $20 in ship's fund. Engine delegate reported beef. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck or steward delegate. Crew asked contracts department to look into improved dental and optical plan. Chairman an­ nounced movies paid with ship's fund should be available to watch before trip is over. Crew gave vote of thanks to steward department for job well done. SEA-LAND VOYAGER (Sea-Land Service), March 21—Chairman Ernest Guhon, Secretary Scott Opsahi, Educational Director William Hatchel, Deck Delegate Mike Sorensen. Engine Delegate Richard Surrick. Steward Delegate Jose Maglalang. Chairman reported smooth sailing. Secretary reminded crew to upgrade at Piney Point and read Seafarers LOG completely. Chairman reported reminder received from Seattle hall to monitor tempera­ tures and noise while in drydock. Chairman reported crew mess hall, pantry and lounge will be locked and only crew will have keys while vessel is in port. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. Continued on page 22 m. ! '• . •.. ; �f'.i- 22 AUGUST 1993 SEAFARERS LOG Ships Digest Continued from page 21 SENA TOR (Crowley American Transport), March 28—Chairman D. Wagner Secretary R. Seim, Educationa'JhectorW. C. Cameron. Secri ,u.y gave special thanks to Lundeberg School staff for outstanding development of new culinary addi­ tion which allows unlimited pos­ sibilities to all steward department upgraders. Educational director en­ couraged members to continue sup­ port of SPAD and reminded members to take full advantage of upgrading courses offered at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman discussed deck operations regarding cargo and bal­ last. Next port: Port Everglades, Fla. STONEWALL JACKSON (Water man Steamship), March 28—Chair• man Eugene Granthan, Secretaiy A. Robinson, Educational Director F.C. Quebedeaux, Deck Delegate Robert Christensen. Chairman thanked deck department for job well done unload­ ing cargo. Secretary reported good trip and requested better quality stores aboard vessel. Educational director reminded members to upgrade skills at Lundeberg School as soon as possible. Treasurer reported $675 in movie fund. Dis­ puted OT reported by engine depart­ ment. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck or steward delegates. Crew asked contracts department to look into amending shipping rules regarding time at sea. Crew gave vote of thanks to chief ^teward and galley gang for captain's 50 years at sea dinner party and job very well done. Next port: Newport News, Va. USNS CAPELLA (Bay Ship Management), March 28—Chairman Mike Shappo, Secretary Sergio Castellanos. Chairman reported movie library 30 tapes short and announced captain performing sanitary inspec­ tion on rooms before docking in USA. Secretary urged members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. No beeifs or disputed OT reported. Steward delegate reminded crew to return plates, glasses, etc., to galley. Crew asked contracts department for clarincation on eligibility of vacation time and medical benefits. Crew reported VCR in lounge needs repair. ULTRAMAXiSealift, Inc.), March 21—Chairman Hannibal Plata, Secretary L. Perales, Educational Director Ron Herian, Deck Delegate A. Martinez, Engine Delegate ClaudioMazzara, Steward Delegate Fred Lindsey. Chairman reported complete satisfaction with all crewraeihbers. He stated it was pleasure working with such competent men who endured hard work and condi­ tions to finish more work than seemed possible. Secretaiy compli­ mented great crew. Educational direc­ tor suggested crewmembers upgrade skills at Lundeberg School, stating there is always room for improve­ ment. Treasurer reported in Working on Peck Hard at work aboard the FranklinPhillips is AB John Rus­ sell. ship's fund. Beefs reported by deck, engine and steward delegates. No dis­ puted OT reported. Crew reported^ Seafarers LOGs received in Israel. Crew noted poor quality of stores made available to vessel. AMERICAN FALCON(Crowley American Transport), April 4—Chair­ man MikeMcCardie, Secretary Paul Zilkow, Educational Director James Clement, Deck Delegate Cecil Gentry, Steward Delegate McKinley Jones Jr.. Chairman reported new fUmiture for crew lounge and new curtains for all quarters and lounge needed. Secretary reminded crewmem­ bers to upgrade at Piney Point. Crew reported small dryer, microwave and juice machine broken. Crew requeisted large barbecue and permanent antemia from company. Crew thanked steward department for excellent job, engine department for great job keeping ship running in bad weather and deck department for excellent job keeping ship tidy. Next port: Morehead City, N.C. AMERICAN KESTREL (Ospiey Shipping), April 27—Chairman John Higdon, Secretary C, Clanton, En­ gine Delegate Allen Lejeune, Steward Delegate Brenda Cheatham. Deck delegate reported beef. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported by engine or steward delegates. Chairman annoimced Maritime Day party on May 22 at Seamans Club. Next port: Diego Garcia. COURIER (Vulcan Carriers), April 4—Chairman S, Yaras, Secretary Francis DiCarlo Jr.. Chairman reported no spare parts for deck department. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked contracts deparOnent to look into improved medical coverage for spouses and children. Crew requested microwave. Next port: Odessa, Ukraine. GOLDEN MONARCH (Apex Marine), April 11—Chairman Paul Luckey, Secretary R.Spencer. Chiairman reported problems with company draws. D^k delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegates. Crew discussed overtime provisions in contract. Crew asked contracts department to look into increase in manning. Crew reported cat was picked up off dock in Egypt. Crew gave vote of thanks to steward department for job well done. LIBERTY St/A/(Liberty Maritime), April 11—Chairman H. Berggren, Secretary C. Hazzard, Educational Director Darren Walker, Deck Delegate Carey Heinz, Steward Delegate Gary Truvia. Chairman an­ nounced payoff upon arrival in port and reminded crew to clean rooms. He encouraged members to upgrade at Piney Point. Deck delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs of disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegates. Crew reported Seafarers LOGs received. Next port: *lew Orleans. LNG AQUARIUS(ETC), April 3Chairman Tom Brooks, Secretary Thomas Wybo, Deck E)elegate Woodrow Shelton, Engine Delegate Iruce Zenon, Steward Delegate Rafael Cardenas. Chairman thanked crew for keeping noise down and an­ nounced he is available 24 hours a day. He advised crew to discuss problems with department head. He announced new Seafarers LOGs ar­ rived in Japan. Secretary reminded crew to separate plastics. Educational director urged members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center and reminded crew to fill out application in LOG. Treasurer reported $250 in ship's fund and crew voted to use some money for charcoal. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Chairman an­ nounced president's report in LOG posted for all to review. Crew asked contracts department to find out if members can apply for vacation while on last voyage so check would Ire ready upon return. Steward delegate requested ordering name 1 rrand items for ship. Crew requested all warnings, precautioiis and first aid directions on stores be translated and posted in English. Crew welcomed Wiper George Gill aboard from Piney Point. Chairman discussed safety conditions and crew requested larger-sized gloves and rain gear for slop chest. Crew asked contracts department to send vacation, medical and crew list forms. LNG LEO (ETC), April 1-Chair­ man John Davis, Secretary M. Ruggiero. Educational Director John Smith, Deck Delegate Francis Smith, Engine Delegate Timothy Van Pelt, Steward Delegate Amy Rippel. Chairman discussed impor­ tance of SlU American-flag ships and keeping local politicians aware of maritime problems. He also dis­ cussed upcoming contract negotia­ tions. Educational director reminded members to check dates of upgrading classes at Piney Point in Seafarers LOG. Treasurer reported $1,556.40 in ship's fund and $30 in SlU fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew reported Seafarers LOGs received. Crew asked contracts department to look into having patrol­ man meet ship to collect dues quarter­ ly. Next port: Nagoya, Japan. to Steward Assistant Robert Kotecki who is signing off after 33 years of sailing. discussed how lounge is for SlU meinbers only and gave steward department and captain vote of thanks for job well done. Next port: San Juan. AMERICAN CONDOR (Crowley American Transport), May 28— SEA-LAND ENDURANCE (SeaLand Service), April 25—Chairman M. Johnson, Secretary A. Delaney, Educational Director Joseph Holzinger. Engine Delegate Sam Rashid, Steward Delegate C. Gomez. Chairman reported Seafarers LOGs received in Yokohama, Japan and urged upgrading at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked contracts department to look into discontinuing policy of steady jobs and go back to rotary shipping. Crew requested contracts department look into relief trip after 60 days. Crew asked company for two clothes dryers. Crew also noted need for fire watch policy. SEAUFT ARABIAN SEA (IMC), April 3—Chairman H. Nelson Bailey, Secretary Ivan Salis, Deck Delegate Billy Watson. Chairman asked contracts department to look into getting better supply of stores, paint and brushes. He reminded crewmembers to return plates to galley /V£lY4/?/fS4y (Sea-Land Ser­ and keep food out of rooms. He vice), April 25—Chairman J.D. Foster, Secretaiy J. Jordan, Educa­ asked members to clean rooms when leaving and remove tape from walls, tional Director Richard Johnsen, Deck Delegate Joe Caruso, Engine do not slam or kick doors or talk loud­ Delegate Philip Pardovich, Steward ly in passageway. He discussed bills Delegate Willie Grant. Chairman an­ passed by Congress that may open nounced payoff in Elizabeth, N.J. and new jobs aboard cruise ships and thanked "gang" for job well done and reported some U.S.-flag ships may good trip. Secretary thanked crew for soon go foreign. Secretary report^ cooperation in keeping ship clean and no prior records were found in file gave special thanks to steward depart­ cabinet. Educational director ment for good job. Educational direc­ reminded members to upgrade skills tor reminded members of importance at Piney Point to stay competitive in of upgrading at Lundeberg School. job market. Deck delegate reported No beefs or disputed OT reported. some disputed OT and beefs. Crew asked contracts department to Steward delegate reported beef. No look into improved dental benefits beefs or disputed OT reported by en­ plan for members and dependents. gine delegate. Crew asked contracts Crew requested new furniture and department to define meaning of carpet in crew lounge. Crew gave haridling" in regard to butterworthvote of thanks to steward department ing. Crew requested typewriter to for job well done. Next port: Boston. type ship's minutes. Crew reported many rooms need shower repairs but OOCL INSPIRATION (Sea-Land engineer is awaiting new parts to per­ Service), April 18—Chairman Mark form repairs. Crew reported spotting Trepp, Secretary Ekow DufToh, wreckage of fishing vessel Carol Ann Educational Director Eric Bain, on April 4. No one r^-as found aboard. Deck Delegate Donovan Christie, Coast Guard said vessel had been lost Engine Delegate Harry Kinsman. at sea. Next port: Jacksonville, Fla. Educational director urged members USNS KANE(Bay Ship Manage­ to upgrade at Lundeberg School. No ment), April 11^-Chairman Chris beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew Brady, Secretary J.Smith, Educa­ requested new chairs for crew tional Director J. Jenkins. Chairman lounge: Crew gave vote of thanks to steward and deck departments for job reported response from headquarters well done, especially for posting sug­ regarding tour of duty question. Educational director reminded crewgestion board to list ideas for new members to upgrade skills at Piney menus. Next port: Charleston, S.C. Point. Treasurer reported $318 in SAM HOUSTON(Waterman Steam­ ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT ship), April 20—Chairman Carlos reported. Crew reported crew reliefs Canales, Secretary Ernie Hoitt, not being provided by company in Educational Director E.E. Neathery, timely manner upon completion of Deck Delegate Bennie Spencer, En­ tour. Chairman reminded members to gine Delegate William Smith, report to union hall within prescribed Steward Delegate Nelson Corey time. Crew reported new mattresses Jones. Chmrman read minutes from and pillows needed. Next port: last union meeting and posted letter Pireaus, Greece. hrom Assistant Vice President Tony WESTWARD VENTURE (lOM), Sacco regarding retirement plan. April 1—Chairman Michael KadderSecretary announced all union forms y. Secretary R.B.Sander-son, Educa­ available and reminded crewmem­ tional Director Chris Cunningham, bers who need new mattresses report Crew reported Seafarers LOGs in before Suez Canal so order forms can be sent. He reminded members to received. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crewmembers asked con­ donate to SPAD to save jobs through tracts department to look into pay in­ legislative efforts. Educational direc­ creases. Chairman reminded crew to tor encouraged members to visit be careful throwing litter or garbage Piney Point either on vacation or to on deck. He spoke with upgrade skills for increased earning ongshoreman about throwing plastic power. Treasurer reported $400 in safety vests on deck as they leave. ship's movie fund. No beefs or dis­ Crew reported new door jambs on puted OT reported. Crew discussed vacation requirements. Crew reported order. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. door on main deck needs repair. AMBASSADOR (Crowley Crew requested all-beef hot dogs, American Transport), May 16oysters and fried chicken. Next port: Chairman Leon Jekot, Secretary M. Newport News, Va. Youmett, Engine Delegate Thomas i larry. Steward Delegate Robert SEA-LAND CRUSADER (SeaKotecki. Chairman announced Land Service), April 26—Chairman payoff and reported extra washing Angel Hernandez, Secretary Nick inachine needed for greasy clothes. Andrews, Deck Delegate Ben BerSecretary reminded crewmembers to herena. Engine Delegate Edgar report beefs to patrolman. Education­ Young, Steward Delegate VIrgillo al director reminded members to Rivera. No b^fs or disputed OT upgrade skills at Piney Point for fu­ reported. Crew asked contracts ture. No beefs or disputed OT department to include chairs for watch standers in new contract. Crew reported. Crew gave special goodbye v: •• l' • Ready for Work GUDE Scott Pendleton is ready for work aboard the Franklin Phillips in Diego Garcia. Chairman William Dowzicky, Secretary James Allen, Educational Director Timothy Cullen, Deck Delegate Darrell Thomas, Steward Delegate ClifTord Elliott. Education­ al director urged members to upgrade skills at Lundeberg School. Treasurer reported $80 in ship's fimd; No beefs or disputed OT reported. HUMACAO(Puerto Rico Marine), May 30—Chairman L. Rodriques, Secretary Jonny Cruz, Educational Director R. Bolin, Deck Delegate Angel Camacho, Steward Delegate Anihal Pena. Chairman reminded crewmembers to continue upgrading and support SPAD for future of maritime industry. Secretary told crew the way to help union and self is to keep informed through reading Seafarers LOG. He encouraged mem­ bers to keep in touch with union rep­ resentatives for changes in contracts and volunteer help in any way. Educa­ tional director urged members always to think about safety and report any unsafe'conditions. Deck delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegate. Crew asked con­ tracts department to contact company regarding longshoremen in crew mess hall and lounge in San Juan. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang for making ship good feeder. Next port: Charleston, S.C. INGER(SealiB, Inc.), May 16Chairman TJ. Bush HI, Secretary J. BIrke, Deck Delegate Willie Chestnutt, Engine Delegate Steven Boleware, Steward Delegate Henry Edwards. Chairman announced in­ spection by captain upon arrival in port and reported captain thanked en­ tire crew for good trip. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked galley gang for job well done. Next port: Houston. ' " "I r* ITB JACKSONVILLE (Sheridan Transportation), May 30—Chairman Jessie Thomas, Secretary R. Hairston, Educational Director S. Perdikis, Engine Delegate Jose Mar­ tinez, Steward Delegate B. Santos. Chairman announced payoff in New York. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested summer coveralls and thanked deck depart­ ment for job well done and steward department for good meals. ITB MOBILE(Sheridan Transporta­ tion), May 30—Chairman F. Jensen, Secretary Marvin SL George, Educa­ tional Director R. Natoli, Steward Delegate T. Quammie. Deck and en­ gine delegates reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by Continued on page 23 / » ; •• • :ll • • •- - .* *, �AUGUST 1993 ^ fV«-- h SEAFARERS LOG • /'•, . • 23 LNG Aquarius Galley Crew Earns Shipmates' High Praise Steward/Baker Franklin Robertson made sure Seafarers sailing aboard the LNG Aquarius were taken care of by the galley gang. In fact, he and his crew did the job so well that Captain John J. Donahue praised the steward department in a recent letter to SIU headquarters. "Please be informed of the absolutely OUT­ STANDING work of Steward/Baker Franklin Robertson, Chief Cook Martin E. Buck and Steward Assistant Mark A. Kotojarvi during the past tour of duty on the LNG Aquarius," Donahue wrote. "Our holiday meals have been just stupen­ dous and service excellent. The entire department (has) pitched in and (has done) a fine job." Bosun Jimmie Garner noted the efforts of the galley gang were duplicated by the deck and engine department members. "We've got a great group on board," Gamer told SIU Representative Sal Aquia who serviced the vessel recently at the port of Himeji, Japan. "Everyone works hard to get the job done." . Like the other Energy Transportation Corp. vessels under contract with the SIU, the LNG Aquarius carries liquified natural gas from refineries in Indonesia to various ports in Japan. The 72,622 Showing the SIU colors aboard the LNG Aquarius are QMEO Eric deadweight-ton vessel was built in 1977. Morrison (left) and SA Mark Kotojanri. ¥' Steward/Baker Franklin Robertson keeps an eye on a cake As Ordinary Seaman Christopher Curtis (left) prepares to go on duty, fellow OS Bosun Jimmie Gamer prepares to Charles Allred is ready for some shore time. call a shipboard meeting to order. in the oven. Ships Digest Continued from page 22 steward delegate. Crew gave vote of thanks to steward department for job well done. LIBERTY BELLE (Liberty Maritime), May 23—Chaidnan Daniel Laitinen Jr., Secretary W. Emarchman, Educational Director Mark Ruhl, Deck Delegate Nelson Poe, Engine Delegate Anthony Ripoll, Steward Delegate John Foster. Deck delegate reported beef. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegates. Captain gave vote of thanks to crewmembers for job well done and crew thanked steward department for good meals. LNG AQUARIUS(ETC), May 23— Chairman Tom Brooks, Secretary JeflTYarmoia, Educational Director John Orr, Deck Delegate Woodrow Shelton, Engine Delegate Bruce Zenon, Steward Delegate Rafael Cardenas. Chairman announced patrolman requested at next port. Crewmembers reported smooth sail­ ing with no beefs or disputed OT reported. Treasurer reported $500 in movie fund and $125 in ship's fund. Chairman reminded crewmembers everyone has right to call meeting Watchful Eye Taking advantage of his more than 30 years as a Seafarer, QMED Irmo E. Salomons makes sure everything is run­ ning smoothly in the LNG Virgo's engineroom. '•.•'A', • rh iL / i:-'" i' '• •»,. 't with eight hours prior notice and reported he will explain as necessary anything discussed at delegates infor­ mational meeting. Engine department thanked deck department for coopera­ tion while working on deck. Crew­ members observed moment of silence in memory of departed union brothers. Next port; Tobata, Japan. LNG CAPRICORN (ETC), May 30—Chairman Charles Kahl, Secretary Norman Duhe, Education­ al Director P. Wolf, Engine Delegate Robert Rice, Steward Delegate Perry McCall. Chairman reported smooth sailing and reminded mem­ bers to keep lounge and living areas clean and neat. He reminded crew to smoke only in authorized areas not on weather decks. He reported crew has new microwave. Educational director encouraged members to check Seafarers LOG for upgrading schedule. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked contracts department to look into union coverage of immunization shots for newborn babies of union members. Crew thanked galley gang for fine job. Next port: Arun, Indonesia. LNG VIRGO (ETC), May 10— Chairman Jack Rhodes, Secretary Z. Achmad, Deck Delegate Auhrey Davis, Engine Delegate Charles Dahlhaus, Steward Delegate Henry Daniels Jr. Educational director urged members to upgrade skills at Lundeberg School. Treasurer reported $1,375.20 in ship's fund and reported captain is buying rice cooker for gal­ ley. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next port: Tobata, Japan. 1ST.LT. JACKLUMMUS (Amsea), May 9—Chairman Ken Johnson, Secretary L. Oram, Educa­ tional Director P. Kwasi^juk, Engine Delegate J. Beard, Steward Delegate E. Loret. Chairman announced he will sign off this trip so new chair­ man must be elected. Educational director urged members to upgrade at Piney Point. Treasurer reported $244 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked chairman and secretary fordoing good job, and chair­ man reminded members to contact dqrartment heads if room repairs are needed. Next port: Jacksonville, Fla NEDLLOYD HOLLAND(Sea Land Services), May 9—Chairman F. Goethe, Secretary V. Harper, Educa tional Director V. Bolton, Deck Delegate Al Fabre, Engine Delegate G.A. Yore, Steward Delegate Michael Harris. Chairman reminded members to take advantage of cour­ ses at Paul Hall Center and upgrade.. Treasurer reported $75 in ship's fund. Deck delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegates. Crew reported Seafarers LOGs received. Crew asked contracts department to look into having patrolman meet all Sea-Land ships that pay off in Char­ leston, S.C. NORTHERN LIGHTS(lOM), May 23—Chairman Ray Waiters, Secretary Kenneth Whitfield, Educa­ tional Director Keith Jordan, Deck Delegate Tommie Vines, Engine Delegate Charles Kennedy, Steward Delegate Christopher Green. Chair­ man complimented crew on good work and encouraged them to con­ tinue. Secretary reported captain thanked crew for hard work and told crew new parts for living quarters have arrived. Educational Erector reminded all members to attend Lundeberg School. Deck delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported from engine or steward department. Crew requested fans and TV antennas in all rooms. OMI HUDSON(OMl), May 31— Chairman T.P. Banks, Secretary F. King, Educational Director L. Philpot. Chairman and educational director reminded crewmembers of importance of Piney Point Treasurer reported $i20 in ship's movie fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew reported Seafarers LOGs received by patrolman at payoff. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang. OMI STAR (OMl), May 25—Chair­ man L. McCants, Secretary G. Kenny, Educational Director J. Anderson, Deck Delegate S. Argry, Engine Delegate W. Sargent, Steward Delegate B. Wright. Chair­ man announced payoff, repairs com­ pleted by company. Crew reported Seafarers LOGs received. Crew asked contracts department to review shipping rules regarding sea time requirements. Crew requested additional washer and dryer, microwave and sofa and easy chairs fw crew lounge. Next port: Bayonne, NJ. OVERSEAS ALASKA (Maritime Overseas), May 2—Chairman John Zepeda, Secretary Donna DeCesare, Educational Director Cary Pratts, Deck Delegate M. Smith, Engine Delegate J. Brown, Steward Delegate E. Killian. Chairman an­ nounced payoff. Educational director urged members to upgrade at Lundeberg School. Treasurer reported $50 in ship's fund and suggested crew use part of fund to buy head cleaner for VCR. Steward delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck or en­ gine delegates. Crew asked contracts department to look into changing shipping rules regarding length at time at sea per voyage. Crew gave vote of thaiiks to galley gang and stated, "We will hate to go home" and gave a special thank you for Easter eggs which were class act Next port: San Francisco. OVERSEAS CHICAGO (Maritime Overseas), May 23—Chairman J. Mixon, Secretary Brian Burchett, Educational Director M. Sawin, En­ gine Delegate Edward Whisenhant. Treasurer reported $80 left in ship's fiind. Crew asked contracts depart­ ment to look into speeding up vaca­ tion pay and increasing dental and medictd coverage. OVERSEAS PHILADELPHIA (Maritime Overseas), May 6—Chair­ man Tom Blnitt, Secretary M. Flores, Educational Director Patrick Coppola Secretary announced payoff in Corpus Christi, Texas and urged members to think of themsel­ ves and future by upgrading skills at Lundeberg School. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Crew asked con­ tracts department to look into cost of living adjustments for retirees and to investigate changes in pension require­ ments. Crew requested new TV and repairs to ice machine. Crew reported trip to Venezuela was very smooth with all members being very coopera­ tive. Crew reported stores low but gal­ ley gang did good job. RALEIGH BA Y(Sea-Land Service), May 9—Chairman Howard Knox, Secretary J. Speller, Educational Director DJ. Dukehart. Chairman thanked crew for fine work and keep­ '• 'i - , '•' ' . ^ ing clean ship He reminded them to donate to SPAD. Educational director inrged members to upgrade at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thank^ steward department for job well done. SEALIFTPACIFIC(mC), May 16—Chairman Ferdinand Gongora, Secretary S. Bird, Educational Direc­ tor Jason Etnoyer, Deck Delegate Ricardo Ramos, Engine Delegate Charlie Sandino, Steward Delegate Antonio Carrasquillo. Chairman reminded crew to return missing movies and announced ETA in Rota, Spain. Secretary reported looking for­ ward to pleasant visit in Rota. Educa­ tional director stressed importance of upgrading at Lundeberg School to im­ prove self and union. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Steward delegate thanked crew for all positive input and stated it makes job more reward­ ing. Chairman announced new movies will be purchased and thanked galley gang on behalf of en­ tire crew for excellent job. He reported mess halls are cleaner and food is excellent. He aimounced en­ tire crew morale has improved and the old saying, "a well fed crew is a happy one" applies to this crew. " SEALIFTPACIFIC(mC), May 30—Chairman Ferdinand Gongora, Secretary S. Bird, Educational Direc­ tor Jason Etnoyer, Deck Delegate Ricardo Ramos, Engine Delegate Charlie Sandino, Steward Delegate Antonio Carrasquillo. Chairman en­ couraged crewmembers to keep up good work. Secretary thanked ail crewmembers for taking part in stow­ ing trash in proper receptacles. Educa­ tional director stressed need to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center. He reminded members Lundeberg School is there to use. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward delegate thank^ crew for helping keep ship clean. Crew announced movie selection list will be posted. Chairman gave special vote of thanks to galley gang for excellent job. He announced food is best he has had in a long time. He also praised crew for keeping vessel so clean. j.:; • • j? "• •t :s, • ^ \ �•.;rrst#l ; 24 SEAFARERS LOG AUi^ST 1993 '•hi.. h. In a Year of Safety Training Seafarers Upgrade Skills Aboard 'Great White Ships' ' -V*' For guests, the atmosphere aboard the al, individual studying. "We ran two SlU-crewed passenger ships Inde Separate classes per day," Barry explainer pendence and Constitution is one of gooc "This was in addition to our members times and cheer. regular work schedules, so they were very But for Seafarers, the emphasis is al­ busy." ways on safety. As part of this devotion to The course material included shipbo^d safety, crewmembers continually are safety, abandon-ship techniques, deep upgrading their skills. One aspect of this is water survival, raft drills, signal training shipboard training in lifeboat operation lifeboat and davit drills, written exams anc and other emergency procedures. more. Throughout the year, the Seafarers Advantage of Experience Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship, "One advantage I had as an instructor located in Piney Pont, Md., sends an in­ was that I sailed as a carpenter-joiner on structor to the two cruise ships to conduct the Independence in 1988," Barry noted the onboard training. Instructor Stephen So I know the workings of the ships, and Barry provided the Seafarers LOG with a that helps. yearly report on his lifeboat, CPR and first "Also, I'm roughly the same age as a lot aid training of Seafarers aboard the two of the members aboard those ships, anc Hawaiian passenger trade ships. "I always tell our members, it doesn't that helped make them comfortable work­ matter if you're a hotel worker or a galley ing with me." The instructor also pointed out the worker, you've got to be a Seafarer first. Stephen Barry (far right) instructs the following students in lifeboat procedures: (from benefits of having members train with the ieft, front row) Sky Williams, Sarah Clark, Lisa Jones, Allison Phillips, Debra Gardiner, You've got to know the emergency actual equipment they would use in case o (second row) Irving Houghton, John Wilson, Philip Brockman and Bryant Cornelius. duties," said Barry. Baity, who graduated from the Lun­ an emergency, as opposed to using other deberg School in 1986, stated in his annual gear. "We had exemplary cooperation from report that approximately 200 Seafarers he Coast Guard in Honolulu, and the fact earned their U.S. Coast Guard-certified lifeboat tickets during his classes on board is the classes wouldn't go off smoothly the two cruise ships, also known by crew- without the cooperation of the whole members as "The Great White Ships." crew," Barry added. "I've since me About 60 members, many of whom took jeople who were in some of the early the lifeboat training, also were certified in classes, and they have expressed their ap>reciation for the training. I think the CPR and first aid. familiarization with the workings of a ship, "I would hope for a nice gale wind the and its equipment and terminology, first couple of days of each class," Barry, 28, said half-jokingly. "Training in those helps make people feel more sure of conditions helps emphasize the impor­ themselves and definitely makes them tance of leaming the commands and learn­ more efficient." Shipboard photographer Chris Danby ing how to work together." provided Barry with the photographs that Each lifeboat class lasted four hours per day for two weeks, not including addition­ appear on this page. Completing the safety course are (from left, front row) Tina Smith, Wendy Sue Nichols, Annika Hagland, Romy Binachi, Kristine Swanson, (second row) George Joy (USCG), <en Freddrick, Patrick Lage, Victor Leonard, Mohamed Saleh, Pedro Romas-Castillo, Stephen Barry (instructor) and Brad Younghin (USCG). Posing on deck are (from left, first row) a Coast Guard Rep., Maximo Lugtu, Leonaka Mercurio, Atrice Croke, Yokie Sudjono, (second row) Commander Moll (USCG), Clarence Barroga, Gregory Hardison, R. Davis. Linda O'Brien, Erik A. Hoag, LeeAnn Meurer and Stephen Barry (instructor). banning their lifeboat station are (from left, front row) George Joy (USCG), Bradly Wickman, Jeffrey Brumble, Michael Briscoe, Abdul Ahmed, Omer Muzyad, (second row) Jeff Purtell, Donald Dobras, Brian Schmeer, Mohamed Saleh, Paul Telegdy, John Palughi, Stephen Barry (instructor) and Brad Younghin (USCG). r-'i Taking part in the lifeboat classes are (from left, front row) a Coast Guard Rep., Rosa Clark, J. Dennis Paulin, Jenifer Tuomi, Mark Lammiman, (second row) Commander Moll (USCG), Christopher Mann, Andrew Van Bourg, Brett Zeches, Luis Guzman, Edgar Pace and Stephen Barry (instructor). /•/ �P' •''• -'"vv' . AUGUST 1993 SEAFARERS LOG Final Departures DEEP SEA JAYALSOBROOK Pensioner Jay Alsobrook, 65, passed away June 5. Bom in Eastland, Texas, he joined the Seafarers in 1945 in the port of New York. Brother Al­ sobrook sailed in the deck depart­ ment. He retired in March 1971. FRANK BONA Pensioner Frank Bona, 65, died June 14. He joined the SIU in 1945 in his na­ tive Bal­ timore. Brother Bona completed the bosun recertification course at the Lundeberg School in November 1979. He began receiving his pen­ sion in November 1986. RUFUSBREEDEN Pensioner Rufus Breeden, 71, passed away May 31. A Louisiana na­ tive, he joined the union in 1946 in the port of New York. Brother Breeden sailed as a pumpman. He retired in October 1984. RAYMOND BUNCE JR. Pensioner Raymond Bunce Jr., 71, died June 24. He joined the Seafarers in 1957 in his native New York. Brother Bunce sailed in the deck department. He began receiving his pension in December 1984. ROBERTO CADALZO Pensioner Roberto Cadalzo, 88, passed away May 12. Bom in Narvacan, Docus Sur, PhiUppines, he join^ the SIU in 1962 in the port of Seattle. Brother Cadalzo sailed in the steward department. He retired in March 1977. JOHN DOYLE Pensioner John Doyle, 64, died June 3. He joined the union in 1947 in his na­ tive New York. Brother Doyle sailed as a chief cook. He began receiving his pen­ sion in August 1984. HERNELL EDWARDS Pensioner Hemell Ed­ wards, 70, passed away June 16. Bom in Pittsburgh, he joined the Seafarers in 1952 in the port of New York. Brother Ed­ wards completed the bosun recer­ tification course at Piney Point in 1973. He retired in March 1987. DAVID FAIR Pensioner David Fair, 76, died June 12. Bom in Virginia, he was a charter member of the union, having joined in 1939 in the port of Baltimore. Brother Fair sailed in the deck department. He began receiving his pension in May 1983. EUGENE FLOWERS Pensioner Eugene Flowers, 70, passed away May 28. A Pennsylvania native, he joined the SIU in 1942 in the port of New York. Brother Flowers com­ pleted the bosun recertification program at the Lundeberg School in 1966. He retired in March 1988. ROMAN HARPER Pensioner Roman Har­ per, 71, died June 4. Bom in Pennsyl­ vania, he joined the Seafarers in 1943 in the port of New York. Brother Harper sailed as a QMED. He upgraded at Piney Point frequently. Brother Harper served in the U.S. Navy from 1944 to 1946. He began receiving his pension in August 1985. WALTER HILDABRANT Walter Hildabrant, 53, passed away July 1. A Texas native, he joined the union in 1967 in the port of Port Arthur, Texas. Brother Hil­ dabrant sailed in the deck depart­ ment. He served in the U.S. Army from 1959 to 1962. THOMAS JONES Pensioner Thomas Jones, 67, died May 22. He joined the SIU in 1951 in the port of Norfolk, Va. He served in the Navy from 1943 to 1946. Brother Jones upgraded his deck department fating in 1976 at the Lundeberg School. He was shipping as an able bodied seaman aboard the NATCO dredge Manhattan Island prior to retiring in July 1990. THOMAS KEGNEY Thomas Kegney, 44, passed away June 14. He joined the SIU in 1968 in his native New York. Brother Kegney sailed in the engine depart­ ment. He upgraded at Piney Point several times. JOHN KROSKI •/ Pensioner John Kroski, 81, died May 21. A Weaver, Pa. native, he joined the Seafarers in 1960 in the port of 25 IV-' •'''f Detroit. Brother Kroski sailed as a fireman, watertender. He retired in Febraary 1976. Palombo sailed in the engine department. He began receiving his pension in March 1986. WILLIAM LANIER Pensioner William Lanier, 85, passed away June 25. Bom in Ok­ lahoma, he joined the SIU in 1941 in the port of Galveston, Texas. Brother Lanier sailed in the deck department. He retired in January 1973. MAGDALENO PERALTA Pensioner Magdaleno Peralta, 88, died May 27. Bom in the Philip­ pine Islands, he joined the Seafarers in 1947 in the port of New York. Brother Peralta sailed as a cook/baker. He retired in December 1972. GETTIS LIGHTFOOT Pensioner Gettis Lightfoot, 75, died June 1. An Alabama native, he joined the Seafarers in 1943 in the port of New Yoik. Brother Lightfoot sailed in the steward dqrartment. He retired in OctobCT 1971. JACKIE PRUITT PORFIRIO MALDONADO Pensioner Porfirio Maldonado, 65, passed away June 11. Bom in Texas, he joined the union in 1953 in the port of New Orleans. Brother Maldonado sailed in the en­ gine department. He began receiv­ ing his pension in July 1990. WILLIAM McNEELY Pensioner William McNeely, 84, died Jiine 3. A North Carolina na­ tive, he joined the SIU in 1955 in the port of Bal­ timore. Brother McNeely sailed in the steward department He retired in Febmary 1975. ROBERTO MENDEZ Pensioner Roberto Mendez, 76, passed away May 18. An EI Sal­ vador native, he joined the union in 1965 in the port of San Francisco. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Mendez upgraded at .the Lundeberg School frequently. He began receiving his pension in Febraary 1982. VERGE NORWOOD Pensioner Verge Norwood, 85, died May 19. Bom in Alabama, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1945 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District (AGLIWD) of the SIU. Brother Norwood retired in September 1974. MAURICE O'KEEFE Maurice O'Keefe, 59, passed away May 27. A Wisconsin native, he joined the Seafarers in 1964 in the port of Jacksonville, Fla. Brother O'Keefe sailed in the engine department. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1952 to 1961. Jackie Pmitt, 52, passed away May 23. A Virginia na­ tive, he joined the SIU in 1971 in the port of Bal­ timore. Brother Pmitt sailed in the deck department. He upgraded at the Lundeberg School frequently. CORNELIUS RASONABE Pensioner Comelius Rasonabe, 81, died May 5. Bom in the Philippine Is­ lands, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1946 in the port of San Francis­ co, before that union merged with the AGLIWD. Brother Rasonabe served in the U.S. armed forces from 1940 to 1945. He retired in July 1978. PAUL REED Pensioner Paul Reed, 81, passed away June 13. A Quincy, Mass. native, he joined the Seafarers in 1947 in the port of New Orleans. Brother Reed sailed as a chief steward. He began receiving his pension in July 1977. RUSSELL REFFITT Russell Reffitt, 61, died June 13. Bom in Ohio, he joined the SIU in 1989 in the port of New Orleans. Brother Reffitt sailed as a steward/baker. He upgraded at Piney Point in 1990. Brother Reffitt served in the U.S. Army from 1948 to 1950. MIGUEL REYES Pensioner Miguel Reyes, 64, passed away June 13. A Puerto Rico native, he joined the union in 1946 in the port of New York. RAGNAROLSEN Brother Reyes sailed in the steward Pensioner Ragdepartment. He served in the U.S. nar Olsen, 82, Army from 1951 to 1953. Brother died July 4. Reyes retired in July 1987. Bom in Bronnoysund, Nor­ LINWOOD RICH way, he Pensioner Linjoined the wood Rich, SIU in 1944 died June 68, in the port of 27. Bom in New York. Maine, he Brother Olsen sailed in the deck joined the de partment. He retired in June Seafarers in 1976. 1976 in the port of New VICTOR PALOMBO York. Brother Rich completed the bosun recer­ Pensioner Victor Palombo, 72, tification program at the Lun­ passed away July 6. A native of deberg School in 1981. He served Italy, he joined die union in 1961 in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to in the port of Mobile, Ala. Brother .V 1966. Brother Rich began receiv­ ing his pension in April 1991. ANTONIO SAKELLIS Pensioner Antonio Sakellis, 72, passed away June 21. A native of Ismilias, Egypt, he joined the SIU in 1957 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Brother Sakellis sailed in the deck department. He retired in Decem­ ber 1974. RALPH SECKINGER Pensioner Ralph Seckinger, 78, died May 29. Bom in Ocala, Fla., he joined the union in 1973 in the port of Tampa, Fla. Brother Seckinger sailed in the deck department. He retired in Febmary 1977. MICHAEL TREMPER Pensioner Michael Tiemper, 49, passed away June 1. A Maryland na­ tive, he joined the SIU in 1961 in the port of Baltimore. Brother Tremper sailed in the engine department He upgraded frequently at Piney Point Brother Trempo- began receiving his pension in July 1992. BERNARD TURK Pensioner Ber­ nard Turk, 68, died June 15. Bom in Illinois, he joined the Seafarers in 1945 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Brother Turk sailed as a QMED. He upgraded at the Lun­ deberg School in 1976. Brother Turk retired in Febmary 1986. JOSEPH WOOLFORD I^nsionerJosqii Woolford, 82, passed away June 2. A na­ tive rf Ports­ mouth, Va., he joined the union in 1956 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Brother Woolford sailed in the deck department. He began receiv­ ing his pension in July 1976. INLAND JAMES JACKSON Pensioner James Jack­ son, 74, passed away May 7. Bom in Durmid, Va., he joined the union in 1961 in the port of Philadelphia. Boatman Jackson sailed with Curtis Bay Towing from 1961 until his retirement in August 1981. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army. MARKNAUMANN Mark Naumann, 40, passed away June 2. Bom in Rhode Is­ land, he graduated from the Lun­ deberg School in 1975. Boatman Naumann held a chief mate's license as a tug and towboat operator. Boatman Naumann upgraded at the Lun­ deberg School frequently. . •• �•Js 26 Mwusrisos SEAFARERS LOO Lundeberg School Graduating Classes V X • in. I I bnl^Wr^i W L_ OO ..; -r -v:. Trainee Lifeboat Class 512—Graduatingfromtraineelifeboatclass512are(fromleft,kneeling) Oscar Ranos, Westcott Reiss, Jennifer Berry. Darryl Bence, Joseph Meehan, Juan Salgado, Allen Newgen, Ben Cusic (instructor), (second row) Chris Campos, Jerome Gill, Michael Lau, Fred Fein, Francis Pappas III, Ron Thompson, Aristides Rojas, Joshua Brown, Christopher Sykes, Anna Maria Rosario, (third row) William Jinney, Terry Smith and Melvin Leguillow. Able Bodied Seaman—Graduating on June 9 from a special AB course for Maritrans are (from left, kneeling) Leonard Tyson, William Belote, Richard Belote, Christopher Boyd, Mitchell Roberts, Casey Taylor (instructor), (second row) Jim Stevens, Ralph Ramsey, Richard Keith, Paul Brown, Dannie Card, Edmund Putro, Mark O'Neal, Emmanuel Roldan, (third row) Anthony Myklich, John Coover. Mark Leadbeater, Gregory Gibson and Troy Zimmerman. Crane the six-week of III in^.'ACaa.KW Maintenance—Completing V/V/l I l^lwill 1^ il 19 0l/\ VW9i\ course wWUlOW W1 SSvSntcS^S QfiShifHt' rS ^ ^ ® ^ ® Upper Lakes Towing AB Class—Completing this special Aff class on June 9 are (from left) Mark Carlson. Thomas Stroooich. Terrance DeMenter, Francis Berube, Jeny Stropich and Joseph Racicot , i'y < » ^1 (se^nd row) Jioia de Leon, ^verly Harris, Alfr^ Williams, Vincent Merenda, (third row) jhomas Tinsley, Wayne Woodland, Maxwell Caravan, (third row) David Stanford, Johri Rodney Camera, William Smalley, John Jacobs, Vrctor Jimenez, Mary Brayman and Bruce Maxeynlll, Bill Hadley Jr., Henry Corbelt, Paul Carlton, (fourth row) Lawrence Roth, Freddie Cantreil, Jacques Mouttet (fifth row) Royce Caravan and Augustus Blake. Tankerman—Completing one of the safety specialty courses on May 27 are (from left, kneeling) Dan Van Sciver, William Belote, Timothy Rayfield, Manuel Conchinha, Mitchell Roberts, (second row) Jim Shaffer (instructor), John Schuster, Vinpent Scott, Emmanuel Roldan, James Brown, Chad Vickers, (third row) Charles Bradshaw, James Lombard, Martin Timney, Michael Gavin, Ralph Ramsey, (fourth row) John Coover, Richardo Bowman, Lonnie Merrell, Jerry Mercer, Ray Scott and John Juker Jr. —•• •— i ^ Able Bodied Seaman—Certificates were received by the July 2 class of upgraders. They are (from left, kneeling) Paul Gatewood, Rodney Jimenez Michael Kieliszeski, (second row) Jake Karaczynski (instructor), Allen Shaw Misty Shaw Shannon Teem, Peter Luhn, Jon Smith, William Powell, Bobby Kelly and Glenn Baker Jr' �^ J> \ •' ' ^ ^ V -v' •; • 'i •'• '• •' UieUST1993 SEAFARERS LOG LUHDBBER6 SCHOOL 1993IHVRADING CWRSESCHEOULE The following is the current course schedule for classes beginning between $eptember and , December 1993 at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship located at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. All programs are geared to improve job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. The course schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the naaritime industry and—^in times of conflict—the nation's security. Check-In Date Course KiiSl^ Able Seaman AUstudents must tak£ tfie^U Spill Prev Completion Date Novembers Cbeck-In Date October 4 Course Bosun Recertification Steward Upgrading Courses Course ' Assistant Cook, Cook and Baker Completion Cbeck-In Date Date All open-ended (contact admissions office for starting dates) Chief Cook, Chief Steward Ail open-ended (contact admissions office for starting dates) October 22 December 17 Engine Upgrading Courses and Containment class. Cbeck-In Date September 27 Completion Date Novembers September 27 November 8 October 8 November 19 Course FiremanAVatertender and Oiler Itiad^ Observer - Unlimited September 20 November 1 September 24 Noveniber 5 November 22 December 17 All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. Pumproom Maint & Operations Novembers December 17 Marine Electrical Maintenance n September 13 October 22 Refrigeration Maint. & Operations September 13 October 22 .... : ^ ...... .f 5 ; . ,. ., . . Safety Specialty Courses , <2 Cbeck-In • Date Course Completion Date pi! SpiU Prevention and Containment November 8 November 12 Lifeboatman September 13 October 11 Novembers December 6 September 24 October 22 November 19 December 17 September 7 November 2 September 17 November 12 October 25 November 19 ; BbsicAAdvanc^ Fire Fighting S«ealift Operations & Maintenance UPGI^IHGAmKaTmN . Date of Birth _ Name (Last) Address. "• -r : SluphandUng '•••'V Cfjesdal Navigation • v RecertlflcatlonPngrams Completion Date September 13 November 8 (Qty) (Fint) Monlh/Day/Year (Middle) (Sueet) _ Telephone _i _L (Area Code) (Zip Code) (State) 27 Marine Electronics Technician I September 27 Novembers Marine Electronics Technician n Novembers December 17 Hydraulics September 13 Octobers Diesel Engine Technology November 22 December 17 Welding October 25 November 19 Crane Maintenance Novembers December 17 ? 1992'93 Adult Education Schedule The following courses are available through the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School. Please contact the admissions office for enrollment information. Completion Cbeck-In Date Date Course High School Equivalency (GED) All open-ended Aduit Basic Education (ABE) (contact admissions office for startii^ English as a Second Language (ESL) dates) With this application COPIES of yourdischarges must be submitted showing sufficient time to qualify yourself for the course(s) requested You also must submit a COPY of each of the following: the first page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, your clinic card and the front and back of your Lundeberg School identification card listing the course(s)you have taken and completed The Admissions Office WILL NOT schedule you until all of the above are received RATING DATE DATEOF VESSEL HELD SHIPPED DISCHARGE - 1 Deep Sea Member• Lakes Member • Inland Waters Member• Pacific • If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will pot be processed. Social Security # Book # — —___ Seniority • Department U.S. Citizen: •Yes • No Home Port. Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held dlYes Are you a graduate of the SHLSS trainee program? If yes, which program: from — to. Last grade of school completed Have you attended any SHLSS upgrading courses? If yes, course(s) taken Have you taken any SHLSS Sealift Operations courses? — I am interested in the following course(s) checked below or indicated here if not listed DECK • AB/Sealift n 1st Class Pilot •Yes DYCS If yes, how many weeks have you completed?. Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? • Yes GNO FiiefightingiGYes GNO CPR:GYes Date available for training Primary language spoken ONO —— — — GNO GNO D Third Mate G Radar Observer Unlimited • Master Inspected Towing Vessel • Towboat Operator Inland • Celestial Navigation • Simulator Course ENGINE GNO DATE SIGNATURE. G FOWT Q QMED—Any Rating Variable Speed DC Drive Systems (Marine Electronics) G G Marine Electrical Maintenance G Pumproom Maintenance & Operation G Refiigeration Systems Maintenance & Operation G Diesel Engine Technology G Assistant Engineer/tThief Engineer Motor Vessel G Original 3rd Engineer Steam or Motor G Refngerated Containers Advanced Maintenance G Electro-Hydraulic Systems G Automation G Hydraulics Marine Electronics Technician G STEWARD G Assistant Cook Utility G Cook and Baker G ChiefCook Chief Steward G Towboat Inland Cook G G G G G ALL DEPARTMENTS Welding Lifeboatman (must be taken with another course) Oil Spill Prevention & Containment Basic/Advanced Fue Fighting ADULT EDUCATION DEPARTMENT Q Adult Basic Education (ABE) G High School Equivalency Program (GED) Developmental Studies (DVS) English as a Second Language (ESL) • ABE/ESL Lifeboat Preparation G G CX)LLEGE PROGRAM G Associate in Arts Degree Transportation will be paid in accoidaiicc witb theadwdaUng letter only if yon present original rccdpls and succc bnyco plete thecoatse. If you have any qucstioas, contact your port agcsl before dcpartiiigfor Plney PMBL RETURN GOMPLETEDAPPUCATION TO: Lundeberg Upfradtaf Center, P.O. Boa 75, PlneyPOlnl,MD 20i74. S/93 • -/!• �SEAEUCERS 1994 Scholarships Announced August 1993 Volume 55, Number 8 Seven scholarships will be awarded in 1994 to help members and their dependents further their college or university studies. Those interested in applying should send away for the scholarship program bookiet. For ad­ ditional information, see page 10. Come High Waters, Seafarers Survive Flood of 93 More than shipping has been Take, as ^ example, the residents affected by the flo^waters of the of Eldred (111.). . . if that levee Mississippi River and its breaks, they will have 15 minutes tributaries. Seafarers living along to gather what they need and gei the rivers have lost their homes to out. Most of their worldly posses­ the high water rampaging through sions will be destroyed and they never had flood insurance, the midwestem U.S. Rogers explained. Alton (111.) Port Repre­ Belle Bartender Mary Shaw is sentative Patti Rogers reported to one of the residents of the nearby the Seafarers LOG several instan­ town hoping that the levee holds. ces where SIU members were ex­ Her house is an eighth of a mile periencing distress due to the from the levee, which is feeling flooding. But, she added, "it is the continuing pressure from the difficult to determine just how rain and high waters. In the event many of our members have been affected by the flood because the levee does break, she and her most lines of communication are neighbors will be notiBed by the out. There aren't telephone lines wailing of a siren. When it to many of the homes, and sounds, the residents will have Floodwaters completely surround the SlU-crewed AltonLandingand the Belle. Since this photo was taken In mid-June, the Mississippi River has risen even higher. transportation for most people is only 15 minutes to evacuate. impossible." Houses Flooded Springer and his wife refuse to A ramp that is nearly 220 feet For other Alton Belle crew- leave immediate area of their long was built over the flood Hall Becomes Info Center members, floodwaters already home.the They have moved into a waters to the riverboat casino so The Seafarers hall in Alton is have washed out the man-made camper on higher ground near passengers as well as employees serving as an information center barriers and entered their houses. their house because ttiey are con- could safely come aboard. for members. The staff has Deckhand Ed Lyons lives in cemed about some of their neigh­ provided SIU members and their Grafton, 111., approximately 30 Rogers reported the ramp was bors who are unable to relocate. families with the latest news on miles west of Alton. He occupies being modified for the third time "Many of those C.J. refuses to to raise it above the current flood the second floor of his home be­ recovery efforts. At the July 14 union meeting, cause the first floor is completely leave behind are elderly with level. It is being raised yet another Stan Gordon, a labor liaison for underwater. His boat is his only heart conditions. One of his three feet above the flowing the Red Cross, spoke to members source of transportation to and neighbors, for example, is a waters. about flood relief. According to from his home. According to stroke victim. He is very dedi­ The Alton Belle has been seen Gordon, the Red Cross cannot news reports, 85 percent of cated and concemed about these in many recent national news fully initiate action until the Grafton's 950 residents have )eople who are afi^aid to leave, so stories. Maintenance department floodwaters have receded. Once been evacuated. More probably le is sticking it out with them, worker Jim Patterson took a the Mississippi is back within its will have to leave as the Missis­ Rogers said. television camera crew out on his banks, the R^ Cross will move sippi River continues to rise. According to Rogers, Springer boat around the Alton and West When Alton Belle Assistant delivers water, food and supplies in. The agency will help those Alton, Mo. area so they could Deckhand C.J. Springer ferries affected by the flood with Engineer Bob Thornton's home jy boat to those residents who are supplies to neighbors unable to remodeling and even rebuilding, began to fill with water in the either unable to leave their film the damage and effects of the leave flooded areas. if necessary. They also will pro­ earliest phases of the flood, he flooded homes or are just too flood. vide residents with vouchers for moved all his belongings into the afraid. clothes, food, furniture and upstairs of his bam. Since then, The SIU deckhand also helped replace just about any possession the waters have risen higher, and move of his neighbors' fur­ which was lost due to the flooding recently a team of Seafarers went niture most into a safe and dry place out to his farm and helped him )efore the water waters. "This only includes those move his things by boat from the record level. rose to its current without flood insurance. Those bam into a storage facility. Despite being chased from his with flood insurance must turn in Belle Operations Continue a claim first. The problem is that own house by floodwaters. Deck­ Despite the weather and water so many are currently without hand CJ.Springer will not leave conditions in Alton, the Belle flood insurance because they his community ^ause he wants continues operations at dockside. never thought that they'd need it. to take care of his neighbors. Living on the second floor of his Fellow Seafarers rescued Asst. house because of floodwaters is Eng. Bob Thornton's possessions Deckhand Ed Lyons. when the water got too high. Help Locate Birrs MIssHig Child The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children has asked the Seafarers International Union to assist them in locating Eric Karl Gude. •-.< •/. • • ' /• AP byMichael Wlnokur Alton residents and Illinois National Guard members add more sandbags to a wall created to keep floodwaters out of the city's business distiicLThis scene is two blocks from the SlU-crewed Alton Belle. Eric Karl Gude The child was abducted by his non-custodial mother, Marilyn T. Leguy (alias Marilyn T. Watts), on June 15, 1992 from Millville, Del. An FBI warrant has been issued for her arrest. Eric Gude was four years old at the time of his disap­ pearance. The blond-haired, brown-eyed boy was 3 feet 9 inches tall and weighed 46 pounds. Anyone having information on the whereabouts of Eric Gude should contact the Na­ tional Center for Missing and Exploited Children at (800) 8435678 or the Missing Persons Unit of the Delaware State Police at (302) 856-5860. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 1990-1999 Description An account of the resource Volumes LII-LXI Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993; Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource August 1993 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES HEALTH CARE CRISIS TO TOP LAWMAKER’S AGENDA THIS FALL CONTRACT TALKS CONTINUE FOR FREIGHTSHIPS/TANKERS HEARINGS REVEAL UNCERTAINTY OVER MARITIME POLICY FLOOD CRIPPLES INLAND SHIPPING SEN. MIKULSKI SEEKS MARITIME COMMITMENT HOUSE APPROVES ’94 MARAD BILL DELTA QUEEN TAKES OVER OPERATIONS OF INDEPENDENCE AND CONSTITUTION INLAND WATERWAYS FUEL TAX WITHDRAWN FEDERAL COURT ANNOUNCES USER FEE LAWSUIT SCHEDULE MEXICO’S NEW-FOUND GREEN IMAGE CONTRADICTED BY ITS RESPONSE TO SULFURIC ACID-LEAKING SIP AFTER MONTHS OF NO PAY, NIS SHIP’S CREW STRIKES ARKANSAS MERCHANT MARINE VETS REMINSICE AT DAY-LONG REUNION WILKES CREW COMPLETES RECORD-BREAKING RECOVERY MSC VESSEL BRINGS UP SUNKET SURVEY SLED RUNAWAY FLAGS MEAN LOSS OF AMERICAN JOBS FLOOD STOPS TUGS/BARGES GOV’T SERVICES MEMBER NAMED MSCPAC MARINER FOR 1992 USNS MERCURY JOINS RRF; LEAVES MSCPAC FLEET SEAFARERS PULL TOGETHER FOR NEW BOBLO SEASON MARINE ELECTRONICS COURSES AVAILABLE AT LUNDEBERG SCHOOL BOATMEN FROM 3 INLAND COMPANIES COMPLETE LUNDEBERG SCHOOL AB TRAINING ALLIED BOATMEN GRADUATE SPECIAL UTILITYMAN COURSE SEAFARERS FAMILY PHOTOS STEEL SHIPS AND IRON MEN: PART IV SEAFARERS IN HOUSTON VOLUNTEER TO HELP CHILDREN RETIRED SUP INSTRUCTOR TOMMY ZEE DIES AT 68 AB VICARI BRIGHTENS SEA-LAND PRODUCER WITH MURAL SEAFARERS FIELD NEW TEAM IN SAN DIEGO GARCIA CHILE IS NEXT STOP IN SEAFARER’S QUEST FOR KNOWLEDGE NEW BOOK TRACES LIFE OF ‘EMANCIPATOR OF AMERICAN SEAMEN’ LNG AQUARIUS GALLEY CREW EARNS SHIPMATES’ HIGH PRAISE SEAFARERS UPGRADE SKILLS ABOARD ‘GREAT WHITE SHIPS’ COME HIGH WATERS, SEAFARERS SURVIVE FLOOD OF ‘93 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 08/01/1993 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 55, No. 8 1993 Periodicals Seafarers Log https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/68e26e5cdca9d9056ce1c29aeba3cac8.PDF 82f37c8fac632b9605513ee5e4a94125 PDF Text Text -V.-/ • OFFICIAL ORGAN OF THE SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION • ATLANHC GULF, LAKES AND INLAND WATERS DISTRIQ • AFL-CIO Volume 55, Number 7 Runaway ^ Sli.•sVisf:, ..^^ Nt A % 71^, .-V- . ' tf r sir /. - IK jgggc '• i-Z jf* X >1* r. Condu^ ' \i V •* -. kJv y l "'W V'' /Kja • UJ3: • .CL CUC CLO C OO {VJ vO 3*0 00 UJD -J2:</) r-1 V. I H-_Jl-vO »_:.CUJO V ' J," / vV .-. ^ '••» /•• V Vv&f L' ^ zu-ouur^ •ctooH-ta^ro cO-ir. </:2Ct/^> CClHH o:t-^<rj\±i'3iL-il—»—tl— M fx ov KC lH-<U.:cot/^ C.Il^l- HH QiO<t>CCj O<LC0CX,S. f ") - Runav of the legal a tion is caughi coast humar ^ %r;r. ' f- If " / / N • 5§i . g n t P • •A'-;-:: Q- < Drugs for Jobs: Another NAFTA Threat •'i ^ 4 by Gus Tyler '.>•' .1 Pages ..'^V .- :.• •cr^'a ~.. :w-irta» -t- '"k-'J.': • -iv �2 JULY 1993 SEAFARERS LOG President's Report A Dirty Business In the mounting number of news stories coming across the wire of the efforts of hundreds of illegal aliens seeking entry into the United States it is becoming clear that runaway ships are playing a big part in this unlawful traffic. The most recent of these incidents in­ volved the Hot^duran-flag MV Golden Venture, which ran aground outside of New York City last month. Registered under a runaway flag, the Golden Venture incident points to the fact that flag-of-convenience ship registries are being utilized by those individuals who seek to evade legal authorities. Michael Sacco Runaway ship registries have long offered shipowners of the world havens from the safety standards, tax laws and rigorous inspection requirements of nations with a maritime history and infrastructure. Another bonus for the shipowner offered by a runaway registry is the ability to hire crewmembers from anywhere in the world, from the most ex­ ploitable labor pools, from nations that do nothing to protect the working conditions of their citizens. Flag-of-convenience registries also allow shipowners to dodge the legal regimes and responsibilities of their own nations. But the runaway registries are more than just a flag-dodging ploy. They allow those with an interest in escaping legal authority a way of doing so, By registering with bargain basement registries, the owner or the operator of a vessel is ensured a registry which has neither the means nor the inclination to pursue him for bending any standards or breaking any laws. That's because the runaway ship registry generally is nothing more than a mailbox-and-fax-machine operation set up by a couple of guys with fast bucks who run the flagof-convenience registry as a business, splitting the profits between themselves and the nation renting out its flag. ; The runaway registries are basically for-profit corporations. Runaway registries offer no real control. They offer no real govern­ ment agency dedicated to marine safety. They offer no real interest in the welfare of crewmembers. They offer no effective means of enforcement of the so-called standards they may put up as window dressing on their registries. Negotiations Under Way 1990-1993 Standanl Pact Extended fer 82 Days The SIU and its contracted operators that are signators to the standard freightship and tanker agreements have arranged for a 62-day extension of those pacts which were due to expire last month. The extension continues the contract, which was ratified in June 1990, until midnight August 16. The extension went into effect at midnight June 15. SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez stated "the exten­ sion was agreed to by both sides rather than rush to do things at the nth hour." Meetings between the union and the American Maritime As­ sociation, a group of shipowners who contract with the SIU to pro­ vide unlicensed mariners for Aeir vessels, have been under way for several months. Tellez noted the companies during this same period are negotiating other con­ tracts with some of the officers' unions and the Longshoremen. Members Kept Advised "Our objective is to complete negotiations for the standard agreements on or before the ex­ tension deadline," Tellez said. "As always, we will keep the members informed." Meanwhile, negotiations on the West Coast between theSIU's Pacific Division and American President Lines were still under way as the midnight June 30 deadline approached. (The SIU Pacific Division is composed of the Sailors' Union of the Pacific which represents the deck depart­ ment, the Marine Firemen's Union which represents the en­ gine department and the SIU At­ lantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District which represents the steward department.) SIU Vice President West Coast George McCartney said he ex­ pected negotiations to go down to the wire but was not sure if a 30-day extension would be necessary. When the contract was last negotiated three years ago, talks were completed on the last day of a 30-day extension. Trainees Rescue Stranded Swimmers Two Lundeberg Schoo As Reiss navigated the sail­ swimmers to the center where it trainees rescued two teenagers at­ boat closer, the Seafarers could was discovered they were from tempting to swim against a strong see the teens had stopped swim­ the Piney Point, Md. community. current in St. George's Creek near ming and were holding on to each No medical treatment was re­ the Paul Hall Center for Maritime other while yelling. Reiss tossed quired as neither boy was injured. Training and Education in Piney a line to the pair. One of the boys Arrangements were made to grabbed it as the other retained his return 5iem to their homes. Point, Md. on June 19. Wes Reiss and Francis Pap- hold on him. Pappas reached First Rescue las, members of class 512, were over and pulled both teens into the The rescue was a first for both n a sailboat on St. George's Sailboat. Reiss and Pappas, who are due to Creek when a speedboat with five Exhausted But Thankful graduate at the end of this month. teenagers slowed down, then "They were exhausted," Reiss Unlike Pappas, Reiss has pre­ stopped, near them in the channel stated. "They plopped on the deck vious sailing experience having jy the St. George's Island bridge. and started thanlang us profuse­ worked on yachts in his home of Two of the teenagers jumped into ly." Pompano Beach, Fla. He came to Tools for Lawbreakers the creek and attempted tQ swim "The boys told us if somebody the Lundeberg School "because I These unregulated ship registries, established and maintained to to an island 70 yards away as the hadn't come soon, they were had heard about it and I wanted to speedboat departed. cater to shipowners' greed, are now—as can be seen in the press going to give up," Pappas noted. get the best training I could." The "They began swimming back­ where pictures show hundreds of people being smuggled into the wards," Reiss recalled. "The cur­ They were completely ex­ 23-year-old plans to sail in the United States on unseaworthy rustbuckets flying runaway flagsrent (going toward the Potomac hausted and had only been in the deck department. the tools of the trade for international lawbreakers and profiteers. Pappas is studying to be an liver) was swift and they began water about five minutes." Learning of the criminal syndicates who traffick in illegal human Reiss and Pappas explained engine department member. The elling for help immediately." cargo, extorting huge sums of money from their victims who hope Both Reiss and Pappas that the current was so strong that 19-year-old hails from Philadel­ to make it to the United States, using runaway-flag ships to do watched as the speedboat even experienced swimmers phia. He came to the Lundeberg their dirty work, only confirms our feelings that there is something returned but did not pick up the would have had problems staying School after he heard about the very unwholesome about this whole proposition of flag-of-con­ )air. The teens tried swimming in place, let alone trying to swim merchant marine from a Philadel­ forward. phia SIU member, QMED Billy venience registries. again but it did no good. The trainees brought the Sullivan. "They began bobbing in the While we know the world is not all wholesome and pure, the water," Pappas added. "We didn't question remains: why should the United States be a party to this enow if they were joking but we Idnd of dirty monkey business? didn't want to take a chance. It The United States government and the governments of every was instinctive. We took off to lelp them immediately." maritime nation, including Japan and those in Europe, should be Both trainees said they were deeply ashamed of their easy acceptance, and in some cases, their the only boaters in the area to embracing, of runaway registries. respond to the cries for help. The SIU intends to dig deeper into the charade of runaway 'There were other boats around, flags and to continue to publicize to the Congress, the administra­ )ut no one bothered to help," tion and to the public whatever we find. Reiss said. "It boggled my mind." House Backs Scab-Ban Bill; Senate Next The U.S. House of Repre­ sentatives on June 15 passed a bill that would prevent employers from permanently hiring the people (scabs) who cross picket lines to replace striking workers during lawful strikes. The legisla­ tion passed by a vote of 239-190. The bill now moves to the Senate, where a difficult and close battle is expected. The House last year passed similar legislation on two oc­ casions, but the Senate each time failed by less than a handful of votes to pass it. Supporters of the Workplace Fairness Act, includ­ ing the AFL-CIO and every U.S. union and scores of community and civic organizations, are working on a massive grassroots lobbying drive to convince senators that fair and balanced labor relations are provided for in this measure and are in the nation's interest. These groups are working to gamer enough Senate votes to prevent a threatened filibuster and to pass the bill. Unlike former President Bush, who vowed to veto the Workplace Fairness Act if it reached his desk. President Clin­ ton has promised to sign it if given the chance. If the bill becomes law, it would halt the trend started during the Reagan administration of firing workers who engage in strikes. For example, from 1985 to 1989, businesses hired so-called permanent replacement scabs in roughly one of every five strikes report^ to the federal government. In the recent debate on the House floor. Rep. Pat Williams (D-Mont.) asked, "What good is the right to strike if when you do. the boss fires you? Those mem­ bers who oppose this bill are for bosses firing workers for strik­ ing." Trainees Francis Pappas (left) and Wes Reiss pose on the Lundeberg As passed by the House, the School dock where they brought two exhausted swimmers to safety bill, also known as H.R. 5, does after rescuing them from St. George's Creek. two things: • Prohibits employers from Volume 55. Number 7 July 1993 hiring "jpermanent replacements" for workers who go on strike over The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 0160-2047) is published economic issues, like wages or monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, benefits. Current law prohibits Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District; AFL-CIO; 5201 permanent replacements only in Auth Way; Camp Springs, Md. 20746. Telephone (301) strikes over unfair labor practices 899-0675. Second-class postage paid at MSC Prince on the part of employers. Georges, Md20790-9998 and at additional mailing • Prohibits employers from offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the giving any employment ad­ Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, Md. vantage to a striking worker who 20746. crosses a picket line to return to Communications Department Director and Editor, Jes­ work before the end of a strike; sica Smith; Managing Editor, Daniel Duncan; Associate H.R. 5 only applies to union Editors, Jordan Biscardo and Corrina Christenseh; As­ work sites, including those in­ sociate EditociPlDduction, Deborah A Hirtes; Art, BUI volved in an organizing cam­ Brower. paign. �r: JULY 1993 SEAFARERS LOG 3 10 SIU Co.'sWin Bids To Run 68 RRF Ships t'" A' ' I:- QMED Claudio Mazzaia (left) and Bob Milan, aboard a flatboat on the Mississippi River, talk union over a battery-operated public address system to Avondale shipyard workers on their lunch break. Avondale Goes Union in 1,804 to 1,263 Vote Keeping in mind the issues of pay, health insurance and work site safety, the workers at the New Orleans-based shipyard of Avondale Industries voted "yes" for union representation by a margin of 1,804 to 1,263. In balloting conducted by the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), an impartial agency of Ae U.S. government, on June 25, shipyard workers voted to go union after a four month organiz­ ing effort in which Avondale's management attempted to scare or pressure the employees out of their support for the union. Not counted in the three-totwo pro-union vote are 847 chal­ lenged ballots. The majority of Continued on page 16 Ten companies that have col­ collective bargaining agreements with the SIU were awarded con­ tracts from the Maritime Ad­ ministration (MarAd) to manage 68 Ready Reserve Force (RRF) vessels located across the country. As a result, the un­ licensed crewing needs of these vessels will be met by Seafarers. A total of 14 companies were awarded contracts for the 92 ships in the federal agency's RRF fleet which is kept in an advanced state of readiness to meet surge sealift needs when requested by the military. The contracts range from two-and-a-half to a full five years. SlU-contracted companies whose bids were accepted, along with the number of ships they will manage, include; All Marine Ser­ vices (3), American. Overseas Marine (10), American President Lines (11), Apex Marine (5), Bay Ship Management (8), Interna­ tional Marine Carriers (8), Interocean Management (7), OMl Corp. (10), Stapp Towing Com­ pany (2) and U.S. Marine Management (4). Sea-Land, APL Seek OK To ReHag 20 U.S. SAIjps • a-^:' " Citing the lack of a new U.S. maritime program, Sea-Land Service Inc. and American President Lines (APL) an­ nounced on June 28 that the companies are each filing ap­ plications for approval from the U.S. government to transfer 20 vessels to foreign registry. Sea-Land, a subsidiary of CSX Corporation, is seeking ap­ proval for the transfer of 13 ships; APL said it will file to reflag seven of its 15 U.S.-flag containerships. Under the Shipping Act of 1916, the U.S. government must approve transfers of Americanflag ships to foreign registries. Applications for such transfers are submitted to the Maritime Administration, which makes an evaluation based on the nation's security needs and other factors. The two liner companies have been threatening such a move for over a year, stating that unless a government program was put in place which ad­ dress^ the inability of U.S.-flag ships to compete in the world transportation market, the car­ riers would transfer tonnage to foreign flags. Competitive Factors ;/ ' ' In its announcement, SeaLand President John P. Clancey said the company "can no longer afford to continue operating these vessels under the U.S. flag, competing against lower-cost, foreign-flag operators or sub­ sidized U.S.-flag operators." The Sea-Land official also said that should a new U.S. maritime program be put into place, Sea-Land would consider returning its vessels to American registry. John Lilly, the chairman of American President Companies, Ltd., APL's parent company, claimed the ship transfer an­ nouncement was provoked by "the message from the ad­ ministration that there will not be funding for a comprehensive maritime reform program." SIU to Do All Possible tional trades carry U.S. militaiy cargo under contract to the U.S. government. Sea-Land's state­ ment said it "may file for ap­ proval of foreign registry for some of those vessels." Sixteen of the company's containerships are engaged in the domestic trades in service to Alaska, Hawaii and Puerto Rico and, by law, muSt be operated under the U.S. flag. News reports of the liner companies' reflagging request said that of APL's seven ships up for foreign registry, five were built in 1988 and two in 1980. In addition, APL said it will apply to operate under foreign registry the six vessels the com­ pany is currently having built in German and South Korean shipyards. Upon receipt of Sea-Land's June 28 notice to the union of its intent to seek reflagging authority, SIU President Michael Saccd immediately ad­ vised the Seafarers' member­ ship of the action. In a communication to all ports, he said the union will be meeting with representatives of SeaLand to discuss any and all moves by the company which impact on the employment op­ portunities of the membership. Continue the Fight "The membership, of course, SIU President Sacco, in a is assured that the union will be doing everything possible to public statement on the reflag­ secure the maximum protection of ging moves, said that "any time the member's interests," Sacco diere is a danger of a loss of American-flag ships and a con­ said Sea-Land will apply to sequent loss of American jobs it MarAd to reflag six ships in the is cause for deep concern not trans-Atlantic service; four in only to seamen but also to the as a whole." the trans-Pacific trades; two in nation He added, "The answer to the the Asia-Europe Express ser­ maritime industry's problems is vice; and one in feeder service in still a comprehensive approach Asia. Of these vessels six are that will result in programs that Atlantic Class, six are D9J's and will provide the United States a one is a D6 ship. balanced U.S.-flag fleet Sea-Land's announcement viable, which serves the national inter­ said it seeks to put these vessels est. under the ship registry of the "The SIU is committed to Republic of the Marshall Is­ continuing to work in that direc­ lands, an independent nation tion. We diink there is the wis­ with a population of 41,000 dom and the motivation in this tpade up of a series of 32 atolls country to attain a comprehen­ in the West Pacific Ocean. sive U.S.-flag fleet. In short, we 12 Others Considered cannot envision an America Sea-Land's remaining 12 without a visible presence on U.S.-flag ships in the interna­ the high seas," Sacco said. During Operation Desert Storm/Desert Shield in 1990-91, MarAd called to active duty a total of 79 RRF vessels to cany materiel to U.S. forces overseas. The ships were crewed by U.S. citizens. The companies whose bids were accepted are responsible for maintaining, activating and operating the vessels. The ships must be capable of activation within five, 10 or 20 days, as 1 I' IMC's Cape Flattery is one of eight RRF ships the company will manage and operate under a contract with the Maritime Administration. List of Vessels To Be Managed By SIU Companies In the awarding of MarAd contracts to manage and operate Ready Reserve Force Vessels to U.S. shipping companies, the agency selected 10 enterprises which have collective bargaining agree­ ments with the SIU. That means, should the need ari^e ~ either from reserve operating status (ROS) or an activation of any kind -Seafarers would crew the following ships: \AII Marine Services Pioneer Crusader Pioneer Contractor Pioneer Commander American Overseas Marine Cape Juby Cape Johnson Cape Nome Southern Cross Santa Ana California Cape Lambert Cape Lobos Wnght Cuiliss American President Lines Jupiter Cape Isabel Cape Inscription Comet Meteor Cape Breton Cape Blanco Cape Bover Cape Borda Cape GibsonCape Girardeau Apex Marirte Gulf Shipper Gulf Trader Gulf Merchant Gulf Banker Gulf Farmer iBay Ship Management Mount Washington Mount Vemon Petersburg American Explorer American O^r^ Potomac Chesapeake Shoshone IIMC Cape Florida Cape Flattery Cape Farewell Grand Canyon State Gem State Keystone State Austral Lightning Green Mountain State lOM Gopher State Flickertail State Comhusker State Diamond State Equality State Cape Bon Northern Light OMl Corp. Cape Catoche Cape Carthage Cape Clear Cape Cod Cape Canaveral Cape Canso Cape Chalmers Cape Mohican Cape Mendocino Cape May : A---:,w il^ppTqwing Mission Buenaventura Mission Capistrano \USSMl Lake Scan Pride Cape Catawba The Cape Cod is one of 10 RRF vessels operated by OMl Corp. •" • ' -/ - -v determined by the Navy. The RRF fleet primarily con­ sists of roll-on/roll-off vessels, container ships, bulkers, tankers, freighters and military support ships. They are tied up in various ports around the country on the Atlantic, Pacific and Gulf coasts. Other companies that received bids were Farrell Lines, Marine Carriers (USA), Marine Transport Lines and Mormac Marine Transport. -"1? - • ••': , •• ' . '^7'rr^" T-sr ' �t-. -yy. 4 SEAFARERS LOG JULY 1993 Giant Grain inlaresis Step Up Attacks On Cargo Preference Legislators from agricultural president of the North American no available docking areas, and commodity producing states and Export Grain Association Other related problems. All other the giant multinational grain in­ (NAEGA), which represents 40 foreign vessels have contracts terests are continuing their at­ where the Russian government tacks on cargo preference, the law *One can only wonder pays for the delays.) Vice Commander Wallace Sansone (right), of the Military Sealift The chairman of the Senate Command, tells a House subcommittee that cargo preference laws of the land which allocates a cer­ what multinational Merchant Marine Subcommittee, helped make sure the U.S. had adequate sealift to fight the Persian tain percentage of government- agribusinesses should John Breaux (D-La.), attempted Gulf war. Listening is Acting Maritime Administrator Joan Yim. impelled cargo to U.S.-flag be called for stuffing to quickly rally support against vessels. their pockets with bil­ the late-night ammendment, The broadsides on U.S.-flag lions upon billions of numbered 497, which was ofshipping began shortly after U.S. tajqtayers'dollars.* ferred by Senators Hank Brown President, Clinton announced at an April summit with Russian — Rep. Helen Bentley, referrin (R-Colo.) and Charles Grassley agricultural subsidies receivei (R-lowa) during the debate on the President Boris Yeltsin a $1.6 bil­ to by giants grain companies Clinton budget package for Fiscal lion aid package to assist the people of Russia. Of that amount, Year 1994. $700 million was set aside in Buy Lowest-Priced Grain grain and food credits through the multinational agribusinesses, was "If the argument is we shoulc Legislation to ban foreign-flag then return that evening without U.S. government's Food for called to task for his comments ship at the lowest possible price at Progress program. The president critical of the law and the U.S.- all times, should we not buy the vessels that sail in and out of the stopping at another port. Ibe Wll would close loopholes announced cargo preference laws flag merchant fleet. (See accom­ grain at the cheapest price, no same U.S. port offering one-day gaming cruises is before the full in the Passenger Vessel Act of would apply to the Russian aid panying story below.) matter, where it comes from? The House subcommittee asked Breaux. "Should we not House of Representatives follow­ 1886 and the Jones Act of 1920 package. In the face of the vehement hearing came a day after the buy wheat in China and use ing action by the House Merchant that have allowed the U.S. Cus­ attack, valiant efforts are being Senate past a non-binding resolu­ taxpayers' dollars to do that and Marine and Fisheries Committee toms Service to declare such voyages as legal. (Yet, the same made by a number of repre­ tion urging the cost to carry cargo then give it to the new Russian on June 30. The United States-Flag Pas­ federal agency has ruled that sentatives and senators to shed preference aid be no more than republics? 1 suggest most people light on the self-serving nature of double the competitive world would not think that is a good senger Vessel Act of 1993 (H.R. charter fishing boats sailing into 1250) was marked up without international waters, but return­ the commodity giants' opposition market rates. (U.S.-flag vessels idea." amendments and sent to the full ing to the same port without stop­ to cargo preference. At a House are forced to pay the cost of Added Senator Paul Sarbanes House. (Mark up means the legis­ ping, must be U.S.-built, Merchant Marine Subcommittee delays in Russian ports caused by Continued on page 16 lators prepare the bill for action U.S.-owned and U.S.-flagged.) hearing on cargo preference, the a lack of cargo storage locations. by the next highest chamber, in If enacted, H.R. 1250 would this case the full House of Repre­ phase out all foreign-flag ships in sentatives.) The SIU, joined by the market as of March 9,1993 by the American Maritime Officers the latter of January 1,2000 or 15 (formerly District 2-MEBA) and years after the date the ship was the International Association of built or underwent a major con­ Masters, Mates and Pilots, tes­ version. They will be able to stay tified in favor of the bill during a in operation past January 1, 2000 The June 23 hearing on cargo gressman who represents the only if American citizens are hearing in March. preference legislation by the Norfolk, Va. area. In presenting the bill to the full employed on board, a U.S.-flag House Merchant Marine Sub­ Representative Helen Delich panel. Committee Chairman vessel with at least 75 percent of committee turned into a session Bentley (R-Md.) questioned a Gerry Studds (D-Mass.) noted, the passenger capacity does not where representatives of both statement made by McCoy during H.R. 1250 creates jobs for U.S. enter the same m^ket or the ves­ political parties exposed the mul­ a House agriculture hearing on shipyards and jobs for American sel is not sold. tinational agribusinesses and cargo preference a week earlier seagoing workers. It also makes Americans Should Benefit their Washington mouthpiece, when he said NAEGA is "a sure that foreign-flag vessels When he offered the bill to the the North American Export Grain simple little trade association." which transport millions of U.S. Congress, Representative Gene Association (NAEGA), of want­ "It is my understanding that citizens every year are subject to Taylor (D-Miss.) called the ing more government largess at NAEGA has about 40 members full safety inspections by the cruise-to-nowhere industry "a the expense of the U.S.-flag mer­ including all of the biggest multi­ Coast Guard." sham." During the mark-up ses­ national grain houses and some of chant fleet. Rep. Helen Bentley (R-Md.) offers Phase-Out Provisions sion, he added American citizens "If the name of the game in all the biggest companies in the the House Merchant Marine Sub­ H.R. 1250 would phase out all are the market. We ought to get of our humanitarian aid programs world," Bentley told him. "The committee an eight-page list of existing foreign-flag passenger the benefits." and such activities is to maximize largest grain houses are owned by foreign-flag vessels owned by vessels engaged in "cruises-toAdding his support to the how much food gets delivered to some of the richest companies in members of NAEGA. nowhere." It calls for the ships in legislation was Representative country A, B or C, we wouldn't the world." the trade to be U.S.-flagged, U.S.Jack Fields (R-Texas), who necessarily be buying only Farm Subsidy Recipients owned by companies affiliated built and U.S.-owned. pointed out, "These voyages American grain to supply the After McCoy told the con- with NAEGA. She asked McCoy On a daily basis, more than a being conducted exclusively by needs of country A, B or C," Rep­ gresswoman that none of the to supply a list to see if the num­ dozen ships leave ports—^piimarily foreign-owned, foreign-flagged resentative Herb Bateman (R- foreign interests involved with ber of ships he would record in Florida and California—on one- and foreign-manned cruise ships Va.) told Steve McCoy, NAEGA benefitted from "foreign matched hers. day voyages iqto international represent a significant economic VAEGA's president. aid paid for by the American tax­ waters where gambling is legal. growth potential." "We would buy it on the inter­ payers," Bentley stated, "Mr. Taylor Notes Difference national marketplace where it McCoy, think of what you're After listening to McCoy's Seafarers March with UFCW Strikers was available cheaper," con­ saying!" testimony that Congress ought to tinued Bateman, who serves as Later, she noted that of the change cargo preference laws. the ranking minority member of $3.7 billion paid by the Export Representative Gene Taylor (Dthe subcommittee. "But 1 suspect Enhancement Program between Miss.) said he did agree with the the American farm community 1985 and 1991, $688 million NAEGA president on that one and the grain dealers would very went to NAEGA member Cargill point. Then, the congressman strongly resist our buying and $503 million to French- stated where they differed, "I Australian wheat or Brazilian owned and NAEGA member think Congress ought to change soybeans or the rest. Louis Dreyfus Corp. (The Export the law and require 100 percent of "1 resent very much hearing Enhancement Program was our products be shipped on representations of the American created in the 1985 farm bill to American-flag carriers." merchant marine community as make American agricultural Representative Alcee Hast­ being 'Welfare Queens of the commodities competitive with ings (D-Fla.) urged Congress to Sea' coming from people whose subsidized food products grown "give everybody a level playing livelihood is more deeply, af­ and produced in the European field and let American-flag ves­ fected by the things the United Community and other nations.) sels carry this grain," while Rep­ States government does for them Bentley then asked McCoy if resentative Bart Stupak (D-Mich.) Seafarers from the port of New York march In the UFCW Local and on their account than any­ any of the NAEGA members added that the govemment "owes it 1262 picket lines during the union's recent strike against area thing the United States govern­ owned foreign-flag vessels. After to the merchant marine industry grocery store chains. Pictured above (left to right) are Seafarers ment does or has been doing in a he said he did not know, Bentley and also the U.S. taxpayers to make Jack Caffey Jr. and Robert Gorbea with UFCW members Carole long, long time for this merchant waved from the dais an eight- sure (cargo preference) laws are Graves and Mike Natoli. The strike was settled June 17. marine," concluded the„ con­ page list of vessels she said were fully executed." Fill Advanced by Panel PmhiUts Foreign Ships in 1-Day Cruise Market Home Panel Expams IHeal OthPI Commodity "tiadors �JULY 1993 SEAFARERS LOG 5 Uunaway RegisMes Serve as Conduits for Alien Smuggiing More and more, the nation is Flag^of-convenience learning of the key role of registries were dubbed runaway runaway-flag ships in aiding registries by American maritime criminal syndicates to pull off unions in the 1940s because of smuggling operations moving their use as a device for thousands of people seeking a life shipowners to pay a nominal fee in the U.S. The recent surge of to an agency designated by a nonattempts to smuggle Chinese na­ maritime natibn seeking to raise tionals into the United States has revenue and thereby escape frorh spotlighted the issue of runawaya maritime nation's safety regula­ flag shipping and pointed out how tions, procedures arid inspections, these unregulated, lax ship tax laws and higher wages paid to registries serve as useful tools to crewrriembers. international outlaws and Part of that escape is ac­ criminals. complished through the ease of Since 1991, 24 vessels—the involving several nations in the majority of which are from operation of one vessel, thereby runaway registries—carrying creating red tape and enforcement thousands of would-be illegal im­ difficulties for authorities. migrants have been intercepted on U.S. shores. This year alone, Smugglers Try Mexico the U.S. Coast Guard has stopped The problem is not limited to nearly 2,000 immigrants from the U.S. coasts. Reacting tathe Coast Far East. Many others successful­ Guard's steppedjip efforts to ly make it into the U.S. without catch smugglers in U.S. ter­ being caught. ritories, the syndicates have tried The most recent case to hit AP by Michael Albans to exploit Mexico by unloading U.S. newspaper headlines is the Illegal Immigrants huddle in blankets in the morning chill on a New York beach after reaching shore from MV Golden Venture. Other the freighter Golden Venture, which ran aground in the pre-dawn hours of June 6,1993. A human wave the illegal immigrants there, then notable, recent incidents involved of illegal Chinese boat people is finding its way to U.S. shores, where the immigrants apply for asylum. providing ground transportation to America. The Journal of Com­ the East Wood and the Manyoshi the loose and unregulated style of While the U.S. court system is Runaways: merce recently reported that offi­ Maru (see additional stories, this runaway registries. In the case of attempting to prosecute the per­ A Big Part of the Problem cials from the State Department, page). the Golden Venture, the U.S. Coast petrator of these illegal traffickers Long known as a vehicle to Coast Guard and Immigration In these smuggling operations Guard had to follow a trail which of human lives, often those ul­ escape taxes, safety laws and and Naturalization Service all which have been caught by U.S. law enforcement officials, inves­ involved a flag switch and vessel timately responsible are too hard other protective regulations, flag- have confirmed that Asian crime tigations have been hampered by name change in the middle of atrip. to find, hidden behind layers of of-convenience registries are part syndicates are using Mexico (and agencies and front companies, all of the root of the recent spate of possibly Central America) in this located in different countries. immigrant smuggling. As manner. Often, the easiest target for law demonstrated in several recent in­ The paper quoted a U.S. bor­ enforcement officials are the cidents on both U.S. coasts and in der patrol spokesman as saying crewmembers of these vessels, Havvaii, runaway-flag ships are that from October 1992 to late last who themselves come from dif­ the most popular means of month, there have been 400 ferent countries than those of the transportation to America for the detentions of undocumented ship registry or the ship's owners. aliens—whose "travel agents" in Chinese citizens at the San Diego For the smugglers, the traf­ frontier, compared with only 34 While the saga of the Honduran-flag Golden Venture last ficking of illegal aliens is big the syndicates are criminals. If the immigrants knew how during the first 10 months of last month made national headlines, it hardly is the only recent business. In most cases, the incident involving the attempted smuggling on flag-of-con- people being transported pay unsafe many runaway ships are, year. Mexico has tried to battle this venience registered vessels, of Chinese illegal immigrants thousands of dollars to Asian or they might never come aboard. Indeed, a marine insurers group in problem, but is handicapped by into the United States. Mexican smuggling syndicates. London reports that of its most lengthy coastlines and limited Here are a few other noteworthy examples: Smugglers often charge as much recent 133 inspections of resources. As a result. President • In December, the freighter ManyoshiMaru-^apanese- as $20,000 to $50,000 per person runaway ships, only 21 vessels Clinton recently announced owned but registered under the flag of Honduras—was for a one-way trip, forged passed the first time around. That to work more closely with plans offi­ seized in the San Francisco Bay as it prepared to unload its passport and strategic advice on means an 84 percent failure rate, cials in China and Taiwan to com­ human cargo. The Immigration and Naturalization Service what to do if caught. or five out of every six. bat the situation. discovered that 180 undocumented Chinese had been kept The travel accommodations i.| H-. Recent Cases of Runaway Ships Used in Human Smuggiing Operations ^ :1 below decks during a 42-day voyage from China. Partially because the Chinese's living conditions were so bad—the cargo holds where they dwelled were liberally strewn with vomit and human waste—the case drew the attention of several federal agencies. The shjp's Indonesian captain last month was sentenced to two years in federal prison for conspiring to smuggle illegal aliens into the U.S. The eight other crewmembers received lesser sentences, and none of the Chinese has been returned home. • Last month, a pair of fishing vessels—including the China-owned, Honduran-registered Chin Lung Hsiang—al­ legedly attempted to bring 300 aliens to the San Diego area. A grand jury has indicted five men on charges to smuggle, transport and conceal undocumented Chinese. • Also last month, indictments were handed down in the case of the vessel Pai Sheng, which allegedly dropped off nearly 200 Chinese near the Golden Gate Bridge. The ships have been seized, and most of the undocumented Chinese have been taken into custody. The Pai Sheng flies the Taiwanese flag, yet the vessel holds Honduran documents and is managed via a company in Hong Kong. • In January, a Panamanian-flagged vessel owned by a company in Hong Kong failed in its attempt to smuggle 500 Chinese nationals into Hawaii. The Coast Guard, aided by the SlU-crewed Patriot, discovered the runaway flag East Wood dead in the water 1,500 miles southwest of Hawaii. The Pafr/of—first on the scene—performed a search-andrescue; a Coast Guard vessel later escorted the East Wood to a U.S. Army base on Kwajalein Atoll in the Marshall Islands. A federal grand jury in Honolulu has issued an indictment against a person believed to be in charge of the smuggling operation, and a trial is scheduled to begin this morith. Among the issues to be resolved are whether a hijacking took place (as alleged by East Woodcrewmembers); if two missing crewmembers were thrown overboard by the al­ leged hijackers; and if the captain or crew were involved in the botched smuggling operation. hardly are commensurate with those "fees." Often, the i migrants live in slave-like conditions while aboard the runaway-flag ships, suffering If nothing else, the grounding ferred to Honduras. The vessel from malnutrition, dehydration of the MV Golden Venture last then stopped in Kenya to pick up and severely unsanitary sur­ month at a New York City beach 200 more Chinese nationds. roundings. According to published Even if the immigrants arrive helped point out to millions of in America and find work, they Americans that their country is reports, the ship was supposed to might spend years trying to pay being besieged by smuggling at­ rendezvous with an unidentified off their debts to the smugglers. tempts launched from runaway- vessel somewhere in the Atlantic, whereupon the immigrants would' Many illegal immigrants sell their flag ships. When the foreign-owned, switch ships. When no other ship personal belongings in order to post small deposits for the voyage runaway-flag freighter inadver­ arrived, a crewmember who to America; once in the U.S., they tently stopped in the nation's un­ turned out to be the agent of a become virtual indentured ser­ official media capital, plenty of Chinese crime boss tied up the vants, living in slums while the reporters and cameramen arrived captain, took command and or­ vast majority of their earnings to capture the harrowing scene. It dered the Golden Venture to New . consisted of almost 300 undocu­ York. goes to the smugglers. Soon after the grounding, mented Chinese immigrantsAnyone who falls behind on some wearing business suits. Americans through news reports the payments faces grave conse­ some wearing only underwear— got a taste of the liyes of illegal quences. As reported last month huddled on the shore, soon to be immigrants travelling aboard in the New York Times, the smug­ picked up by federal authorities. runaway-flag ships. The Chinese glers employ enforcers who beat Eight other would-be immigrants told authorities they had paid syn­ laggards. Sometimes, the enfor­ had died trying to swim to shore; dicates thousands of dollars cers take another route: abducting the whereabouts of five others apiece so they could experience the aliens and holding them until were (and remain) unknowri. the American dream. Photos relatives from overseas pay ran­ The Golden Venture, a rusting, showed the incredibly cramped, soms. Often, the debtors are tor­ 150-foot freighter with a Bur­ foul quarters where the Chinese tured until payment arrives. mese and Indonesian crew, began had lived throughout the fourFor example, in late May its voyage from Thailand in month voyage—during which authorities discovered more than February bearing Panamanian time they subsisted on one meal a 50 illegal Chinese immigrants registry and the name Tong Sem. day and little water in grossly un­ huddled together in a New Jersey Ninety Chinese emigrants were sanitary conditions. warehouse. The Chinese were aboard at that time. The captain and 10of the other being held there until relatives One month later, the In­ 12 crewmembers have been produced $25,000 to $30,000, the donesian-owned ship changed charged in this incident, which Times reported. names and had its registry trans­ still is under investigation. Golden Venture's Grounding SpoHlghis Runaways' Role J "• f • •••V,-: •,? , , '••V • -• -'i.'.. . '.t S �6 JULY 1993 SEAFARERS LOG Crew Proud ot^eek Hew220-Foot AHoa II Seafarers have nothing but praise for the new Alton Belle Riverboat Casino and the Alton Ending. The new boat, known as ihc Alton Belle II, began sailing in early June after the barge which houses the Alton Landing was moved into position. The addition of the riverboat and barge provided many new jobs aboard the casino which is docked in the Illinois town lo cated approximately 20 miles north of St. Louis. The SIU will continue to rep resent crewmembers aboard the new riverboat and barge as it has since 1991, shortly after the casino operation began. The new crewmembers will join other STL members working as officers anc deckhands, food and beverage service employees, galley workers, ticket sales-people reservationists, housekeepers The Alton Belle H is 220 feet long and features three decks for gambling, sit-down bar areas and a deli. cashiers and maintenance The design of the riverboat allows up to 1,400 passengers to ride at one time. workers. sit-down bar areas on all three featuring the Piasa House res­ the Alton Belle II. Pennell has Crewmembers Are Excited taurant, buffet and bar for pas­ been a union member since the New SIU member, Deckhanc decks and a deli. sengers to use before and after employees voted in 1991 to be, "I love the Alton Belle II. I Vincent Gibbs, told a reporter cruises. It also includes a snack­ represented by the SIU for pur­ from the Seafarers LOG, "I love have a lot of seatime already and I bar, cocktail lounge, gift shops poses of collective bargaining. the ntw Alton Belle and the union. am working toward getting She is in the process of applying I've never met such nice people licensed. I really enjoy my job and guest services. for upgrading courses at the LunPiasa House steward depart­ in both the employees and- the here," saidDeckhand Jeff Newton, deberg School. ment worker Pamela Fry visitors. Everyone works so good a new crewmember having just described herself and SIU mem­ together. We're like a big family. served sbc^ years in the U.S. Navy. "I'm really excited about ber Sbeila Pennell as the "jacks upgrading. I've heard a lot of There is always praise for doing a Landing Is Enlarged of all trades" in the galley. Fry good things about the school" she good job and that really makes and Pennell do everything from noted. The Alton Belle //docks at the you feel good." making snacks to preparing gour­ SlU-crewed Alton Landing Constructed in Jacksonville, Continued on page 23 t)arge, which is a two-deck barge met meals for the passengers of Fla., the sophisticated new river­ boat features a sleek, aerodynamic look and is 55 feet longer and slightly wider than the After a Year-Long Fight to Save Ship original riverboat casino. The new design allows up to 1,400 passengers to ride at one time, Deckhand John Hargis sweeps which triples the old riverboat's Several hundred people turned water off the deck after an after­ capacity. The 220-foot craft fea­ out to celebrate the reopening of noon thunderstorm. tures three decks for gambling. the Queen Maiy Seaport on June 23 in Long Beach, Calif. While everyone there: seemed enthusiasic about the ceremony, members of the United Industrial Workers UIW) who were in attendance rightfully cheered a little louder and took more satisfaction in the event than did most others. The UIW, which is the SIU's industrial division and which rep­ resents the workers aboard the Queen Mary, waged a year-long grassroots campaign to prevent what once seemed an inevitable overseas relocation of the historic liner-tumed-hotel. The union's efforts—such as packing city council meetings, SIU Secretary-Treasurer John Fay addresses crowd of well-wishers demonstrating, collecting signa­ at bow of Queen Mary. tures for petitions and other ac­ tivities—^were rewarded late last city council meeting." cluding British Consul General year when the City of Long Beach More than 400 UIW members Merrick S. Baker-Bates, RMS bought the vessel and subsequently are employed at the Queen Mary Foundation Chairman of the approved a five-year lease; Seaport, which covers 55 acres Board Dr. Robert Gumbiner and and includes the hotel, numerous other city and state officials. restaurants and shops both aboard Business had been brisk since The American Queen is scheduled to begin service by April 1995. the Queen Mary and at the adjacent the Queen Mary partially Queen's Marketplace village, a reopened in February and jumped The SlU-contracted Delta elevators. But the designers' goal new ride and game area for dramatically the weekend follow­ Queen Steamboat Company "is to create a boat that relies more children, and other features. The ing the ^nd reopening. More plans to have its newest and most on charm than on glitz," the steam­ number of employees is expected than 12,(XX) people showed up at elaborate paddlewheel steam­ boat company said in a statement. to increase steadily now that the the Queen Mary on Saturday, June boat—the American Queen—in Designers wUl create a late I9thcomplex—Long Beach's major 4, and more than 13,500 others centuiy look for the paddlewheeler, operation by April 1995. tourist attracdon^as reopened. were there on the following Sun­ Last month, at a steel-cutting which will be built with a covered SIU Secretary-Treasurer John day. Both days' numbers surpassed ceremony in New Orleans, the deck utilizing swings and rocking Fay, one of the speakers at the a decade-old record of ap­ company celebrated the start of chairs. Joseph Prevratil, president of the ceremony, noted the "textbook proximately 11,000 visitors. construction of the 420-foot, sixAn antique steam engine that foundation which operates the cooperation between labor and In mid-April, the Queen Mary deck vessel which is being built at originally drove a dredge called QueenMary, credited the SIU and management" which helped save was placed on the National Register the McDermott, Inc. shipyard in the Kennedy will propel the UIW for helping save the ship. the vessel. of ffistoric Places. The ship ^ed Amelia, La. at an estimated cost American Queen, 's 60-ton paddle Dozens of other dignitaries from 1936 to 1967. It also served as authorizing the not-for-profit also attended the ceremony, in­ of $60 million. Like its sister wheel. a troop carrier during World War 11. Other features of the new boat RMS Foundation, Inc. to operate ships, the Delta Queen and the the luxury liner. Locally Mississippi Queen, the American include: renowned businessman Joseph Queen will cruise the Mississippi • A showroom and lecture hall Prevratil—who formerly and Ohio rivers as well as several designed to look like a miniature operated the Queen Mary during of their tributaries. opera house, its most profitable days—is presi­ The American Queen is the • A design which will allow dent of RMS Foundation. first steam-powered riverboat passengers to observe the en"A year ago, things looked built in the U.S. in almost 20 gineroom at work, bleak for the Queen Mary," Prev­ years. Able to accommodate 420 • 206 suites and staterooms, ratil said at the ceremony. In overnight passengers, it is the recounting the successful battle to • An all-steel welded hull and largest overnight passenger ves­ save the ship, he added, "I'd like superstructure. sel built in the United States since to acknowledge the Seafarers The project will employ more the SS United States in 1953. Union and the UIW, who were The new boat's plans call for than 5(X) shipyard workers and left, UIW Representative Irma Lerma and UIW members Irma tireless [and were] atevei^ harbor Frorn plenty of modem amenities, in­ subcontractors for nearly two Ramirez, Margaret Alvarez and Linda Jefferson enjoy the Queen commission meeting and eveiy Mary's grand opening. cluding a swimming pool and years. Queen Mary Reopens with Fanfare SEAPORT ConstnicBon Commences On New Paddlewheeler ]UNE 23,1993 �' ,W' JULY 199? SEAFARERS LOG Tax Delmteil la tim Senate As Congress on Budget The Senate failed to adopt the They demonstrated how two Clinton administration's identical tankers—one plying the proposal for a tax based on the domestic trade from a Gulf energy content of fuel, known as refinery, the other sailing from a British thermal units (Btu), fol­ Caribbean port and both heading lowing an intense lobbying effort to the same northeastern U.S. by the Seafarers, maritime inter­ port—would travel basically the ests and other energy users. same mileage. Yet, with a Btu tax The Btu tax was included in in place, the fuel costs for the the administration budget pack­ domestic vessel would be age as a means of reducing the $26,000 more than the one sailing deficit. The House of Repre­ from the international port for the sentatives approved the tax when voyage. it passed the proposed Fiscal Year In addressing the interests of 1994 budget. However, the the Ashing industry, Sacco wrote Senate rejected the idea. in a letter to the members of the Senate Finance Committee that 'Destroys Tanker Fleet' In a joint communication to U.S. fishing boats would bear an members of Congress, SIU Presi­ unfair burden under the proposed dent Michael Sacco—along with tax. "Since foreign fishermen John Stocker, president of the would not be subject to the same Shipbuilders Council of America, tax, it will create a noncompeti­ and Jack Goldstein, president of tive market resulting in increased OMI Corp.—pointed out the Btu imported seafood products," he tax would hurt all of the U.S.-flag noted. "Additionally, it creates an maritime industry. Concerning unequal trading climate as many the U.S.-flag tanker fleet, they foreign governments subsidize wrote, "The Btu tax would the fuel of their private, commer­ destroy the domestic tanker fleet cial fishing fleets." In passing their own version of by dramatically increasing its fuel a deficit-reduction plan, the costs while exempting the fuel of Senate instead created an addi­ international vessels with which tional 4.3-cent-a-gallon tax on all it directly competes." fuels with no mode of transporta­ tion being exempted. Other Taxes Considered Both the House and Senate plans also deal with increases in income taxes for individuals making more than $115,000 a year and couples earning more than $140,000 annually, a jump in the top corporate tax rates, taxes on social security benefits anc much more. Because of these differences as well as others in the two bills, the House and Senate will form a conference committee to create an overall deficit-reduction plan. Under the rules of the Congress, the conference committee mem­ bers can adopt all of whht the House approved (including a 50cent-a-gallon inland waterways fuel taxX all of the Senate's pack­ age, parts of both or nothing from either and create their own fund­ ing formula. The union willstay vigilant for any proposals coming from the committee that will affect the membership and the maritime community. The committee is ex­ pected to complete its work by late July or early August. 7 Just for the Halibut . "' . • .J .' ''mi'iS 'tell Bosun Clifford Perreira caught this halibut while the Overseas Juneau was anchored in Prince William Sound waiting to berth in Valdez, Alaska. The fish was 65 inches long and weighed 140 pounds. The crew has enjoyed numerous meals of fresh fish cooked by Steward Ray Garcia and Chief Cook Andy Campollo. Jobs for Drugs — Another Major Flaw in NAFTA The following article by Gus Tyler is reprinted from The For­ ward, a weekly news publication. Mr. Tyler is a veteran trade unionist and a writer specializing in economics as it effects America's working class. He ser­ ves now, and has for many years, as assistant to the president for While stating the North companies to take advantage of the International Ladies' Gar­ American Free Trade Agreement cheap Mexican labor, Hanley ment Workers Union. (NAFTA) would be bad for the asked, "Has anybody seen a dif­ Keeping Latin American American economy and work ference in the showroom price of cocaine out of the United States force if it were enacted, Frank that GM car produced in Mexico has been difficult. If the North Hanley, president of the Interna­ and the one produced in Detroit? American Free Trade Agreement tional Union of Operating En­ Or the Zenith TV set made in ratified, control of the drug is gineers (lUOE), proposed Matamoras (Mexico) or the one flow will be impossible. scrapping the treaty for one be­ from Springfield (Mo.)?" That is the conclusion of tween the U.S., Canada and the Low Level Wages senior U.S. officials who oversee European Community. Gus Tyler Hanley, who also serves as a drug enforcement. In a report Hanley made his proposal vice president of the AFL-CIO released to the National Security glers are buying up factories as during an address at the annual (the national federation of Archives, a private group that "fronts for drug trafficking." union-management conference at American unions), said U.S. fac­ uses the Freedom of Information Trucks will have to pass border the University of Notre Dame on tory workers averaged $16.17 an Act to make public what would inspection, of course. But, realis­ June 11. The conference brings hour in 1992 according togovern­ otherwise be secret, an official tically, any attempt to do a together representatives from ment statistics, while Mexican source warns that drug traffickers thorough examination of trucks both the trade labor movement workers made around $2.35 an 'intend to maximize their and the cargo they carry would be and business to discuss and hour. Yet, Mexican workers egitimate business enterprises impossible. Right now, border debate issues affecting the U.S. working in American-owned within the U.S.-Mexico free trade guards cannot give more than five economy. Frank Hanley plants located just south of the agreement." minutes to checking on a truck's "Profits are a corporation's U.S.-Mexican border (known as Here's how it works: Colom­ cargo. Under NAFTA, with primary goal," Hanley said. "And maquiladoras) earned even less Kirkland earlier in the year. bian drug lords buy ma­ trucks free to cross national lines, that is.all well and good, provided $1.64 an hour. quiladoras, factories that the traffic would be far too heavy A free trade agreement be­ the goaf is attained through fair, We're talking a lowest level tween the U.S., Canada and the assemble component parts of for any agency to check the unim­ equitable and humane means. where wages are about one-tenth iroducts that originate in the NAFTA does not meet those of ours, where the minimum wage European Community "would Jnited States. The usual rules of peded flow of cocaine into the expand America's trade and busi­ U.S. criteria." is about 68 cents an hour, where ness opportunities without drag­ international trade do not apply to Until recently, the main argu­ labor leaders are thrown in jail for ging down the wages and maquiladoras: No tariff is paid on ment against NAFTA has been Thousands Lose Jobs on contracts that dis­ working conditions of U.S. and the component parts entering that it would lead to the export of Hanley referred to studies that insisting please employers, where the rich Canadian workers," Hanley told VIexico; virtually no tariff is paid jobs from here to Mexico. In the NAFTA would cost 500,000 and powerful routinely ignore the on the finished product entering light of the recently revealed Americans their jobs, while creat­ laws of the land," Hanley said of the conference. Rather than harm U.S. and the U.S. By law, the finished report, however, there is an equal ing, at best, 200,000 new jobs in Mexico. Canadian workers, as the agree­ iroduct may not be sold in danger: the import of narcotics, in the U.S. "You still end up losing Free T rade Alternatives ment with Mexico would, a North VIexico. The finished products massive quantities, from Mexico 300,(X)0 American jobs, and that Atlantic free trade agreement are carted to the American border to the U.S. Presently, the Clinton ad­ is unacceptable under any cir­ would benefit these workers. It and then transferred to trucks that Ironically, neither the export cumstances," he told the con­ ministration is t^ing to amend distribute them in the U.S. If the would create a link with countries of jobs nor the import of narcotics NAFTA with side agreements ferees. ^orthAmerican Free Trade that enjoy high wages, strong shows up in official statistics. The He pointed out a Wall Street that would include health and Agreement goes through, these consumer purchasing power and contracting of assembly jobs out Journal poll.of U.S. companies safety standards, wage protec­ iroducts will be transported into high standards of living." to Mexico and the moving of that noted 24 percent of those tions and environmental he U.S. in Mexican trucks with machinery and equipment from Hanley pointed out a North polled would use the threat of job guidelines not included when the VIexican drivers. the U.S. to Mexico are counted as loss created by NAFTA to hold Bush administration completed Atlantic free trade agreement The Colombian drug cartels "exports," not of jobs but of down U.S. wages. "The list could its work on the package. Mem­ should incorporate the social see a rare opportunity to move American-made products. And go oh and on of well-known U.S. bers of Congress, who can only charter used in the formation of their wares into the U.S. via the imports of narcotics go un­ companies that have fled to ratify or defeat NAFTA as the European community. That so­ VIexico. By ownership of the fac­ reported because they do not pass Mexico, leaving their American presented to the body without cial charter set standards for equal tories and the trucks, they can workers high and dry—all in the being able to amend it, have said work, vocational training, freedom conceal their filthy poisons in through official trade channels. name of increasing profit mar­ they would not approve the trade of association and the right to col­ )oth the finished products and the Meanwhile, these invisible processes are wrecking our lective bargaining which improved gins, all seemingly oblivious to agreement as it is written. vehicles that carry them freely economy and ruining our physi­ As an alternative, Hanley of­ wages and working conditions for the social and economic turmoil across the border. cal health, and are certain to do so fered a North Atlantic free trade workers in Spain and Portugal to they left in their wake." The report unearthed by the even more virulently under Calling the move to Mexico a agreement, which was presented levels found in other European investigators notes that smugNAFTA. "greed motive" used by U.S. by AFL-CIO President Lane nations. lUOE President Henley Declares Proposed Bill Caters to Greed fyi ;1'-•^'^V4'' ;M<-U;'^ t O •• -IS' ... -rr? I ;i! ( if,* ' �JULY 1993 8 SEAFARERS LOG Flooding Hampers Navigation on Mississippi Rivor Operations along the Missis­ He added the Mississippi was sippi River are coming to a halt as expected to crest in St. Louis at 39 flooding on the upper portion of feet on July 7, provided no more the river has reached record rain fell in the region. The mar levels. is only four feet under the recorc The high waters have forced of 43 feet which occurred in 1973 several SlU-contracted com­ Orgulf Boats Tied Up panies to alter plans until the river A total of six Orgulf boats and its tributaries return to their were tied up in the upper Missis banks. sippi. Four of them—the Dave As of July 1, rain was continu­ Carlton, Peter Franchi, Bob Lab ing to fall in the region with more don and Ed Renshaw—are a storms predicted through July 4. various points on the river wait­ Locks and dams along the river ing for locks to re-open. The 7a/began closing in late June until all bott was docked at Lansing were shut down in the 5(X)-mile Minn, while the Enterprise stretch between St. Louis and St. waited in St. Paul. Paul, Minn. Five more Orgulf tugs tied up The Army Corps of Engineers, in Paducah, Ky. because of the which operates the series of locks, flooding. These vessels included and the Coast Guard closed the the Twin Cities, Geary, Irene AP by Jim Mono river to pleasure boaters as well Chotin, Justin Rogers and John because of the dangerous currents Kcager. Meanwhile, the lower Barges stand idle in the flooding Mississippi River in St. Paul, Minn., putting a halt to shipping on the river. and debris floating in the river. river tug McDermott docked in "We have stopp^ all activity on Reserve, La. until upper river Queen Steamboat Company was crewed Alton Belle Riverboat Spokesmen for the Corps of En­ the river," noted Coast Guard Petty traffic and commerce resumed. in tiie middle of its annual race from Casino had not been hampered by gineers said they expect the Mis­ St. Louis Port Agent Joe Sigler New Orleans to SL Louis between the high waters and rain, accord­ sissippi to crest all along the Officer Keith Richter, who is based in St. Louis. "We do expect the said Orgulf operations may no the Delta Queen and Mississippi ing to Port Representative Patti upper river at the highest readings Missouri and Illinois rivers to rise get back to normal before mid- Queen. The schedule called for the Rogers. Despite being located 20 ever recorded, including more but not to dangeous.levels. Both of July. riverboats to arrive in the Missouri miles upstream froni St. Louis, than 22 feet in Davenport, Iowa. Secretary of Agriculture Mike Along the lower portion of the city on July 4. the casino boat was able to main­ those rivers and the Ohio still are river, the SlU-contracted Delta Espy was inspecting the area the tain its sailing schedule. No open for navigation. Finish Line Moved week of June 28 to determine if flooding had been reported in However, the high waters and the river and farmlands should be Alton, 111. as of press time. strong currents caused the pair to declared a disaster area, Be­ Commercial traffic had finish the contest in Ste. sides the Mississippi, flooding returned to normal following the Genevieve, Mo., approximately was reported along the Mis­ spring rains and thaw shortly 50 miles south of St. Louis. souri River. before the latest flooding began. Operations aboard the SlUSIU member Andrew Smith a new three-year contract that in­ reports "no problems at all" creases wages and benefits. The aboard the Crowley Towing and members overwhelmingly ap­ Transportation tugboat Samson. proved the contract, which took Smith, who sails as a mate effect July 1 of this year and runs aboard the 115-foot tug, until June 30,1996. Crowley tugs and barges describes the work aboard the SIU boatman sailing aboard Samson as "smooth. We have a operate coastwise, deep sea and larbor tugs in ports along the Atgood crew; everyone pitches in to harbor duty in the Atlantic and antic and Gulf coasts are sailing get the job done," says the 15- Pacific oceans and in the Gulf of under new three-year contracts. Mexico from terminals in The pacts with both Crescent year member of the Seafarers. The Samson, built in 1966, es­ Philadelphia, Lake Charles, La., Towing and McAllister Towincorts barges along the Delaware Wilmington, Calif., Jacksonville, gincluded wage and benefits in­ River in Philadelphia and in near­ Fla. and Puerto Rico. creases. Crowley Towing and by areas. The boat has a weight of After the union negotiating Transportation is based in Jack­ committees ironed out the details 190 gross tons. The Samson's five crewmem- sonville. The company is a sub­ of each accord, the contracts were bers were among the Crowley sidiary of Crowley Maritime, submitted to the SIU members as­ employees who recently voted on based in Oakland, Calif. sociated with each company for review and ratification. In both cases. Seafarers voted in the new three-year pacts. The Crescent contract covers ship docking tugs in New Orleans Meeting after completion of negotiations for the new Crescent contract where the company is based), are (standing, left to right) Captain Joe Carson, Consultant Jim Martin, Vlobile, Ala. and Savannah, Ga. SIU Port Agent Joe Perez, SIU Vice President Gulf Coast Dean According to New Orleans Port Corgey, Engineer Paul Von Bodugen, SIU Patrolman Steve Judd, Agent Joe Perez, negotiations Deckhand Junior Hebert, Deckhand William Judd Jr., Crescent Su­ were conducted over a two-week pervisor Eddie Pinner and (seated) Crescent Vice Presidents Arthur Kulp and Charles Andrew. period. Delegates to the talks included Robert Macbinsld. Representing 'aptain Joe Carlson, Engineer the boatmen from Norfolk were Robert Walker, Engineer 'aul Von Bodungen and Deck- Captain Emmett DeRosba, Mate Johnnie Trotman and Deckhand Marvin White. lands Junior Hebert, Tommy White and William S. Judd Jr. From New Orleans. Representing the membership in Savannah was Andrew Smith, mate, reports to Jeckhand David Watford. Seafarers who earn addition­ fishermen it represents have their Taking part in the negotiations Mike Stephens, chief engineer, al income by commercial fish­ interests protected in the fom Mobile were Captain Peter makes adjustment beiow deck as Samson s next assignment, Burns, Engineer James Johnson ing during periods ashore may government's fisheries manage­ tug readies to escort a barge. find this extra source of revenue ment process, which often rides and Deckhand Jimmy Lee. While one contract covers all endangered by government roughshod over the needs and three ports for Crescent, separate plans which will limit access to concerns of the men and women )acts between the SIU and Mc­ some of the nation's fisheries. who earn their livelihoods har­ Allister were negotiated for the The SIU is working with vesting seafood. Seamen who also work as 5orts of Philadelphia, Baltimore Seafarers in this position who have contacted headquarters to fishermen are urged to contact the and Norfolk, Va. Dave Heindel, SIU assistant try and protect their right to fish union's commercial fishing division so that the SIU can be vice president for the Gulf Coast, commercially. It would be helpful to the SIU, brought fully up-to-date on the reported the negotiations for all three ports took one month to in making its case to the govern­ impact of fisheries management ment agencies which manage decisions on their activities and to complete. fisheries and determine fishing provide any assistance possible in Etelegates elected to participate rights, if it had more detailed in­ these matters. Those seamen who in the Philadelphia negotiations formation on how many Seafarers also work as commercial fisher­ were Captains l^chard Role and are engaged in fishing activity as men should contact Shaun Gehan Gary Koshland. Involv^ in the a seasonaloccupation. at the SlU's headquarters, 5201 altimore talks were Captain View from the Samson's bow Richard Jervas, cook/deckhand, Gregory Lukowski, Engineer The SIU has long been work­ Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD shows a Crowley barge it and has been an SIU memberfor eight oseph 2k)rbach and Deckhand ing to ensure that the commercial 20746; (301) 899-0675. years. Crowley Tug Samson Plies Delaware River GuK and Aflantic Harbor Boatmen Ratify New Contracts with Crescent, illicAiiister •' -• s. • Seafynrs mio An Abo Kshennett ShouU Cmitact SIU HeaiUiuarters anothe tug assisted into port. A- �.'isii:.,I;-, V. «»aae^ If" •• • • • JULY 1993 SEAFARERS LOG TRANSCOM's Chief IttspeiRs Uttiott's Paul Hall Center The head of the U.S. Transpor­ tation Command conducted an in­ spection of the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Educa­ tion on May 24. Air Force General Ronald Fogelman toured the facility as well as talked with Seafarers upgrading in various courses at the Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship. Fogelman took the reigns of the Transportation Command, also known as TRANSCOM, in August 1992. In that position, he oversees the military organization that controls the movement of U.S. troops and their equipment and supplies, which includes U.S.flag merchant vessels chartered to carry such materiel. Upgraders at the Lundeberg School performed special demonstrations of their skills on the Hagglund crane and in the com­ puterized shiphandling simulator. The gener^ also sat in on a hazard­ ous materials safety class where students leam how to prevent and deal with oil spills while at sea. As he toured the union's man­ power facility located at the cen­ ter, Fogelman received an explanation of how it worked around the clock during Opera­ tions Desert Storm/Desert Shield to make sure SIU crews were available to man military chartered commercial vessels as well as Ready Reserve Force, fast sealift and other ships used during the Persian Gulf conflict. "r'T'?'-' ' :''.-"i .'-A'- 9 UIW Asst. VP Huber Succumbs to Cancer Joseph Huber, an official with the SlU-affiliated United In­ dustrial Workers (UIW) for more than 20 years, passed away June 29 as a result of cancer. He was 52. Brother Huber became a UIW representative in 1970. For the past 12 years, he served as assis­ tant vice president of the UIW's Great Lakes Region—a position to which he most recently was re-elected at the union's conven­ tion in April. He worked in the Columbus, Ohio area throughout his career with the UIW. "Organized labor has lost a hard-working, honest man," said SIU President Michael Sacco, who also is president of the UIW. "Joe Huber was a friend to work­ ing people." Bill Dobbins, vice president of the UIW's Great Lakes Region and a longtime friend and col­ league of Huber's, described him as "dedicated to helping not only our membership, but also others Joseph Huber served as assistant vice president of the UIW's Great Lakes Region. •V in our community. Joe was ex­ tremely active as a volunteer in community services. He was onein-a-million, and we're going to miss him." A funeral mass for Brother Huber took place in Columbus on July 3. His family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made in Joseph Huber's name to Charity Newsies, 716 South High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43206. General Ronald Fogelman, head of the U.S. Transportation Com­ mand, observes a hazardous materials safety course taught to Seafarers at the union's training facility, the Lundeberg School. Tug Oglethorpe's Fast Action G&H Boatmen Aim for Operators' Licenses Saves All Hands and Wings 1 ••....•I- year-old Terry Walker, who lives in Houston. "It can get a little hectic at times, because there's a lot to cover. But with a little extra study­ ing, it all comes together." Walker, who had not been to the Paul Hall Center previously, also commended the location and facilities of the Lundeberg School. Bill Hadley, 26, described the towboat operator course as "very in-depth. I'm sure this will leave us well prepared for the future, including any future upgrading Once upgrading Is completed, G&H boatmen will perform their newly we do." acquired skills on tugs like the Juno. Another member of the class, Eight Seafarers who are preceded by a week of training Jacques Mouttet, said he ap­ employed by G&H Towing, as and testing in firefighting, first preciates the way the instructors have designed the course so the well as three SIU members aidandCPR. In the towboat operator boatmen are able to maximize employed by other companies, are studying for their uninspected course, the members—who cur­ their time at the school. "That towing vessel licenses at the Paul rently sail as ABs^—receive ex­ whole idea is excellent," said Hall Center for Maritime Train­ tensive, hands-on training as well Mouttet, 35, who was bom in the ing and Education in Piney Point, as written materials covering West Indies and now resides in Md. Final testing is scheduled to navigation and piloting, emer­ Corpus Christi. take place during the week begin­ gency procedures, federal regula­ 1 The other members who are tions including oil-pollution taking the course are; Paul ning July 11. . Instructors at the Paul Hall regulations, watch-standing re­ Carlton, John Maxey III, Jerry Center designed the course to best quirements, weather, chart work McPeak, Lawrence Roth and Thomas Tinsley. The course is meet the needs of all members. and more. 'It's a good course," said 23-1 being taught by Jim Brown. The five-week curriculum was Joe the Rooster knew some­ thing was fouled up when the pushboat Emily Bourg, on which he is the mascot, scraped an ob­ ject while the tug was entering the Kenner Bend, La. fupl dock and came to a stop. Seeing water coming on board, Joe was afraid of becom­ ing chicken soup. When he heard the tug's captain call for help, he was glad to see the SlU-crewed General Oglethorpe, and not Col. Sanders, come to the rescue. The Bourg was sailing into the fuel dock near New Orleans, when it ran across the barge. The Bourg was unable to move and was taking on water when it is­ sued an emergency call. The General Oglethorpe was in the vicinity. Captain Joe Car­ son brought the Crescent tug close enough.for Deckhand Bret Mattel to throw a line to the Bourg. With Engineer Sal Mac^uso watching over the diesel, the Oglethorpe then pushed the Bourg to the shore. Deckhand Chiles Messmer, who provided the Seafarers LOG with the photos below, reported everyone—^including the Bourg's mascot—^reached land safely. ] : Above, Deckhand Bret Mattel secures a line from the Oglethorpe to the Bourg. Below, safely aboard the Crescent tug, Bourg mascot Joe the Rooster watches the action. t'V • v.'sV., Members of the towboat operator course are (from left, first row) John Maxey Mouttet, (second row) Herman Rohrman. Jim Brown (instructor), Uwrence Roth, Bill Hadley, Thomas Tinsley and John N. Welrauch. �10 JULY 1993 SEAFARERS LOG IMC Tanker Provides Wiper Vogt With Chance to See the World Wiper David V<^ discovered the Sealift China Sea was a wonderful learning opportunity, both about sailing and sightseeing. "We traveled to Korea, Okinawa, Guam, Hawaii, California and Washington," the 22-year-old SIU member told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG. "It was wonderful. I saw a lot and learned a lot from a great, ex­ perienced crew." Vogt, who graduated as a trainee from the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in 1989, had high praise for Giving the thumbs-up after dock­ ing in Anacortes, Wash, are OS Recertified Bosun Anthony Jake Jacobson (left) and Bosun Zizzo. "He really was in charge and looked after everyone. He Anthony Zizzo. made sure all of us knew what we and when we were able to go were doing and there were no ashore. The crew congratulated them when all of us found out problems." Besides handling his job in the they had just been married." engineroom, Vogt was asked by In Vogt's four years with the two crewmembers to provide an union, the Seattle native has additional duty. AB Errol Pak sailed in all three departments. He and Chief Steward Louise Mar­ plans to upgrade to jfireman, oiler, tin Pak signed on in Hawaii when the vessel was returning to the watertender this fall at the Lun­ U.S. from the Far East. The deberg School. The Sealift China Sea has no Seafarers were married a month regular run under its military earlier and failed to bring a charter with IMC. It primarily camera on board. carries jet fuel and other "They were lucky enough to petroleum products along the land a job on the same vessel at West Coast. It also makes an oc­ the same time," Vogt recalled. casional voyage to Hawaii and So they asked if 1 would take some pictures of them on the ship Asia. Prepanng baking sheets in the gal­ ley is Chief Cook Willie Gomez. The IMC-operated tanker Sealift China Sea lies at anchor outside Anacortes, Wash. Osaka—A Rest Stop for Aries Crew •/}'•-. ' "•,.'; For SIU crewmembers prepar­ ing to join the LNG Aries, the Hotel Royal in Osaka, Japan was a welcome sight after the better part of a day flying from the United States. The hotel serves as a staging area for Seafarers signing on the LNG vessels that dock in the nearby port of Sanbuka. The SIU members were from various ports in the U.S. Those getting ready to board the LNG Aries gathered there recently to spend the night before a company agent took them the next day to meet the ETC vessel. "After that long flight, it's good to be able to relax, get ad­ justed to the new time zone and get a good night's sleep before heading for the ship," Bosun Ulus S. Veach noted. "Also we're able to catch up on the activities of fellow members who are returning to an LNG ship after some time at home.'' Once the crew leaves the hotel, the agent picks them up in a van and escorts them to the dock area. Although the port is approximate­ ly 30 miles away, an individual cab ride would cost more than $1GO because of the tolls and high cost of gas on the island nation. At the port, the Seafarers still have several hours of work ahead before climbing the gangway. All members must clear customs and immigration in Japan. Then, they are allowed to go to the ship and relieve those members signing off. LNG vessels like the Aries carry liquified natural gas to Japan from refineries in Indonesia. AB Errol Pak and Chief Steward Louise Martin Pak were married a month before signing on the Sealift China Sea. Catching a view of the Golden Gate Bridge is Wiper David Vogt, who provided the Seafarers LOG with these photographs. A Mast with a View Bosun Ulus S. Veach uses the Catching up on activities from time in Osaka to adjust to the home are AB Lou Sorito (left) and Japanese time zone. QMED Charles Pomraining. This photo was taken aboard the cable ship Charles L. Brown in Honolulu, Hawaii. Getting a bird's-eye view from the top are AB Victor Mariano, AB Joel Saul, AB R.J. Sagadraca, AB Jay Speer, AB Sam Tumala, Bosun C. Wemer and AB Luis Balatbat. Waiting in the hotel lobby for the agent to pick them up are Chief Cook Udjang Nurdjaja (left) and Wiper Victor Serrano. V �SEAFAREKSLOG JULY 1993 11 NE Port Calls Are Time to Talk Union ': iV-v j."'- •• "t- "c-lV '"V-." •' When an SlU-crewed tanker or containership docks in the vicinity of the hiring hall in New York, crewmembers can be cer­ tain of one thing: a union port representative will be waiting to meet the vessel. It does not matter if the ship is docking at an oil terminal near Boston-—like the Overseas Vivian recently did during a coastwise run^or at the con­ tainer facility in Port Elizabeth, N.J.—as the Sea-Land OOCL In­ spiration did at the end of May­ an SIU official will be there to Chiof Stswnrd Ekoh Doffoh assistthgcrew, reviews the patrolman's report for Shipboard union meetings are the Inspiration. p,g|jj answer any questions SIU members may have concerning the contract, medical claims or vacation plan. Crewmembers are updated on what is happening within the union and the maritime industry. Finally, the repre­ sentative will leave application forms for upgrading, the welfare plan and the vacation'plan as well as the latest issue of the Seafarers LOG. Because port time is brief, the union representatives try to help Seafarers maximize their time ashore. From handling a beef during a payoff to having the right form to file for a new union book, the port representatives try to as­ sist in whatever way they can. ABs Ron Paradise (left) and Mark Konokowski work on the bow of the ITB New Vork after it docked at Port Reading, N.J. KoSw?k1 Chief Cook Greg Johnson of the Ready to begin a union meeting dh board the ITB Groton are (left to Listening to the dtecussion during ITB New York takes part in the right) ^ , AB Ahmed Ahmed, Bosun Neil Matthey, AB Carlos Cortes and (left to right) QMED Pumpman Angel Mercado, AB Mark Konokowski ^ -t-• • . • and Bosun Sidney Wallace. shipboard meeting. QMED Pumpman Andres Alerakei. Children Befriend Chief Cook Dyer As MV Patriot Unloads in Odessa Chief Cook Mark Anthony Dyer returned to the United States talking about the new friends he met during a recent voyage aboard the MV Patriot. "I was able to spend time with some children in Odessa," Dyer Catching up on the latest news in the Seafarers LOG are (left to right) reported to the Seafarers LOG. DENU Sayed Amasha, Steward Gregory Melvin and OMU D. Campos "We may not have a common language, but smiles and kind­ aboard the Overseas Wv/an. ness break through any bar­ rier," he said after playing with them for hours. The Patriot took on grain in Albany, N.Y. and Baltimore before setting off for the Black Sea port in April. The Vulcan Carriers vessel reached Odessa after 16 days of sailing. The ship was in port several days, which allowed Dyer'Stherxrcwm^^ Chief Cook Mark Anthony Dyer poses with sorne Of the children he opportunity to see the Ukrainian met when the Pafr/of docked in Odessa in April, town. "We had a wonderful time ~ 1 On the ship's return voyage to crew. According to Bosun James seeing the town and meeting the people," the steward department Houston, the galley gang put On Blanchard, the fellowship was a Memorial Day barbecue for the great and thefood was even better. member added. Being updated on recent union news are (left to "ght) Bosun ^ Trepp, AB Oscar Lopez, AB James l^rter and DENU Nathaniel "Bobo" Lamb aboard the Sea-Land OOCL Inspiration. 1/ QMED Pumpman Andres Alerakei (le«) reviews a weKare plan ?l!cation with Steward/Baker Gerhard Schwarz aboard the ITB Groton. . Dwr'chiefStSrfwllter^Ha^^^^ Dyer, Chief _ ready to begin serving the Memorial Day barbecue AB Dan Carman knows work has to to be be done done wherever the has Pafnof may sail. - • . ,i r. 'r? V �12 JULY 1993 SEAFAREBSLOG Seafarers Pull Together For a New Sailing Season Seafarers need only a few minutes to pull the Paul Thayer from its safe harbor in Toledo, Ohio into the Toledo River where the vessel will begin another season of carrying iron ore pel­ lets, coal and stone to various ports around the Great Lakes. The SlU-crewed Louisiana, a Great Lakes Towing tug, waits outside the anchorage for the sig­ nal from the Pringle Transit ves­ sel to begin towing operations. Meanwhile, deck department members, led by Bosun Brett Fischbach, have been in constant motion making sure safety gear is in place, the landing ladder is secure and. all obstructions created by three harsh winter months of inactivity have been removed. Below, engine department Seafarers already have the diesels turning. Two weeks of prepara­ tions have paid off as the ship is ready to sail. The cargo holds and conveyor room are clean and prepared for the year's first load. Finally, steward department members catch a glimpse of the outdoor action while they prepare the crew's first meal of the year on the Lakes. The horn sounds and the Louisiana springs into action. The tug maneuvers through the inlet so Deckhands Don Carl and Richard Gimpel can handle the lines being tossed from the Deckhands on the tug Louisiana await a line being thrown by crewmembers from aboard the Thayer. Thayer. Once secured, the tug signals back to the 630-foot selfunloader that the tow is ready to begin. The Louisiana takes the Thayer from its shallow inlet into the shipping channel of the deckhands release the lines and •/. Deck department members wait for the signal, then begin reloading hose onto a reel on the Thayer's ah deck. Clockwise from the bottom are AB/Wheeisman Walter. Szelag, AB/Wheelsman John Kemohan, Discussing a union matter with Aigonac Patrolman Ken Homer (right) ABA/Vatchman Bob Evahold, AB/Watchman Leonard Scott and Deckhand Tom Hocking. is Conveyorman William Truax. O A; / ' .yV • �... . ,••• " JULY1993 SEAFMERSLOG Port Agent Steve Ruiz (right) wraps up a meeting with Crowley Seafarers (left to right) Mechanics Alejandro Vazquez, Felix Passapera and Leoncio Cancel; Carpenter Pedro Figuaroa and Captain Roberto Candelareo. Non-Stop Action Keeps Crowley Members Busy in San Juan M?:.: ..•' 13 Tankermen William Viust (center) and Melvin Cardoza (right) receive instructions from Supervisor Lino Colon. O Checking the diesel on the tug Sentry is Chief Engineer Rick Cristofano. Reviewing the day's assignments are (left to right) Port Captain Jose Crespo, Supervisor Angel Carrera and Chief Mate Noel Lopez. n the tugs and barges or around the docks. Seafarers who work for Crowley in Puerto Rico remain busy. 'Work continues to be non-stop," San Juan Port Agent Steve Ruiz reported. "There is always some­ thing going on here." Tugs, their barges and ships from the mainland serve as a lifeline to the Caribbean island. SlU-crewed vessels sailing from Philadelphia, Jacksonville, Fla. and Lake Charles, La. ti;^nsport con­ tainers loaded with commercial goods needed by the people on the island. Crowley boats based in the San Juan-Santurce area assist in docking operations and other port functions as needed. Also, other tugs are used to transport fuel barges along the coast of Puerto Rico as well as to the U.S. Virgin Islands and Central America. SIU members at Crowley recent­ ly approved a new three-year pact that took effect July 1. The new con­ tract increased wages and benefits for the members. Positioning a dockside crane is Mechanic Felix Passapera. From left to right, Mechanics Alejandro Vazquez, Ivan Calderon, Miquel Vasquez and Leoncio Cancel report for duty. • .'M - - : •V-v;. •V- - T^TToTwithrtacrs seen at Crowley in Puerto Rico. From left to right are OS Jose Cooks Rafael Jovet (left) and Wooten Jackson prepare lunch ATTAalon and AB Robert, Robles. on U,gboa«. ' . ... .... > �'•K::i9:^---r;::u:^: -y '•ii&:^yyyy -: ': •.v,„.:c. .-' UK -.1 ?=:•:•' V 1.,^^ J '.nv 14 SEAFARERS LOG •- •, . ' ' •X'ixr/k'i . • t'.,• ,V%v-••/•-•••'-•••'• Old Glory flies in the port of Klaipeda, Lithuania as (left to right) Bosun Bill Dean, PGfy/l Fleet Support Manager Todd Johnson and the local agent prepare to go into town. 15 'A fV\', .. ,.'f. XAFMORSLOG MH.ri993 JULY 1993 #n-''»„-'; *HE SIU-CREWED Sugar Islander delivered a big I dose of friendship and comradery to children in two orphanages when the Pacific Gulf Marine (PGM) vessel docked in Klaipeda, Lithuania on June 14. Besides the 25,000 metric tons of U.S.-govemment aid com originally contracted to be sent to the port, the crew offloaded toys, clothing and medical supplies voluntarily donated and collected by PGM employees and New Orleans-area merchants. Todd Johnson, fleet support manager for PGM, was in Klaipeda to oversee the port operations for the ship's first visit ever to the newly independent nation. He traveled with the crewmembers when they delivered the packages. ... "This has to be the most touching thing we ve ever been associated with," Johnson told the Seafarers LOG upon his return from the former Soviet-occupied nation. "It was tmly a humbling experience." Among the items delivered for the children by the Sugar Islander were badly needed cough syrups, vitamins, bandages, diarrhea medications and many more medical items that are very difficult for the or­ phanages to obtain. "We at PGM were chatting among ourselves that it would be nice on the Sugar Islander's first trip to show friendship from the American people to the Lithuanian people, so we decided to adopt two orphanages," Johnson recalled. "It was supposed to be an internal thing. But in eight days, the word spread around New Orleans and all kinds of people wanted to help. We took over more than $10,000 worth of toys, clothes and sup­ plies." The deck crew led by Bosun Bill Dean watched over the items on the 19-day voyage to Lithuania. In their spare ajl^CUW time LtlllV aboard ship. Seafarers assembled the toysJ including bicycles and tricycles—so they would be ready for the children upon arrival. The crewmembers spent several hours at each or­ phanage playing with the children, ranging in age from a month to 9 years old. The galley gang, headed by Chief Steward Michael Thornton, provided ice cream and candy for the visits. Johnson said the success of the trips was noted by Captain James Nolen who said, "It looked like an M&M and ice cream bomb went off in the orphanages!" The Sugar Islander is scheduled to return to New Orleans early this month to reload com for another trip to Lithuania. Johnson said PGM already has collected a container full of items donated for the children in Klaipeda and expects more to arrive before the vessel sets sail. Ckxjkwise from upper left: Chief Steward Mike Thomton shows a child how to play with his new toy. • A child discovers a drivethrough ice cream stand. • Children wait to receive their gifts. • Toys, clothes and medicines are ready for distribu­ tion. • Presenting aphoto of the ship are (left to riaht' right) Capt. James Nolan, GLIDE Kevin Moon and AB Charles McPherson. • Two boys enjoy their gifts. • GUDE Kevin Moon un­ packs a tricycle at an or­ phanage. • Ice cream and candy prove to be a winning combina­ tion. Offloading the 25,000 tons of corn took only five days once the operation began. WmSi iislWiliS ..cr " " r»''' -V-. 1 • M •Vik-- Sugar Islander Crew Delivers Supplies and i: •3MH- Friendship .'•v"'.; ouo J945 m. to Lithuanian Children -'ifr'"" .'>1. •' i:i - .^•' • 'apkridi'o 7d. 1993 m. birfelle naclo. kak^Va U x Meeting before the donated items are loaded onto the bulker are (left to right) PGM Fleet Support Manager Todd Johnson, SlU Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, PGM Chairman Capt. Peter Johnson and SlU New Orleans Port Agent Joe Perez. ^^^^8 ^ wj.,, !l ' ^ ksiog „ s5?ivr.—.... su akciiu 10 jTeriDinuog indeBai ... [Afetaiesi ® 'isa tft J '•oztj i t.® "*»ij ' 1^ IDMIU 1 '(Btau >7*. mtbi 'B ''.ill!, '*27t. A . ''lietttvog K::: /,"3 IS; s ««.„ ^"vo& «r Oo* per. / ^'Ikinu 1 " •lot ^'iku jAVdoi:? % ,'y'ojus '®P'1| PavidJf ^farers ChaTieTf^Pher^fSinnTKeUMBe^d help load clothing onto the Sugar Islander. Operating the winch to offload the donated goods is AB Gerard "Jake Halligan. Watching the deck department member, who will be retiring upon his return to New Orleans, is Bosun Bill Dean. The town square in Klaipeda lies empty three years after residents tore down the statue of Lenin that once occupied it. ••v .. 'ik *"«<>. »v '"P'otile L!f ° »kaj. Do, ' iosj \orn '«HtanB<lenjaf ••'.'A;' neoi, ®fce/biu,„ •mi,•'"ocijciio. "anok- ' I.-- S'l' yy / "i ^ • - 'ijii- •:W' •y'r. I-' '-".-.K.: ' i "I'/f;- 'r.v; • .V.'-f/! 4 I .yf', •.• 1 J 1- "' •ft. • :V^ �H-. v<;v5-; -- • i) • •. _ . - • '• 16 JULY 1993 SEAFARERS LOG Former Union Rep Frank Boyne Dies Avondale Yard Workers Vote For Reprosentation by Unions boat. The 14-foot aluminum flat- tried a lot of tricks to scare the boat, owned and donated to the employees out of voting for a campaign by Seafarer Claudio union, the operators, along with Mazzaia, provided a way to hundreds of others in the reach employees working near shipyard, "hung in there," Milan the Mississippi riverfront during said. "They didn't lose sight o what the real issues were — job lunchtime. "The company tried to make security, fair wages, a good medi­ us go away. Some Avondale su­ cal plan and a safe working pervisors tried to sink our boat by place." throwing hunks of metal at us, Employee Ownership? What One Person Can Do Dominic "Frankie" Boyne Milan recalled. "But we just kept Among the Avondale Since March, workers at talking through our workers' concerns were the use o Avondale, which ig the largest microphone—talking about what the pension fund by management Former SIU official Dominic private employer in New Orleans a union means to a worker." for a so-called employee stock "Frankie" Boyne died May 10 at and one of the leading shipyards Seafarers worked particularly ownership plan which had in of the U.S., began organizing for closely with the Avondale reality little employee participa­ the Olympic Alzheimer's union representation in earnest. employees known as ships' tion, the see-sawing wage scale, Residence in Gig Harbor, Wash. The interest in the yard was operators, according to Bob nepotism and favoritism shown Brother Boyne was 76. sparked by the two-year cam­ Bom in Liverpool, England, Milan. These employees, many of by managers in hiring and promo­ Seafarers Active paign of Dick Creed, an Avonhe served in the Army Transport Additionally, SIU members whom hold Coast Guard docu­ tion practices, the company medi­ Service during World War 11. dale worker who, along with his ments for shipboard positions and cal plan which was based on a wife, handed out more than posted signs, met with Avondale sail Brother Boyne joined the on Avondale-built ships in 35,000 leaflets urging his fellow workers when they were away sea trials, demonstrated a great very high contribution from the Seafarers in 1953 in the port of worker and a very small one New York. He sailed in the deck employees to take action to seek from the shipyard, and, in the deal of guts, he said. from the company and unsafe department on vessels such as the better and fairer working condi­ final two weeks leading up to the While Avondale management working conditions throughout vote, manned a union information tions. New Jersey, New York, Chick­ the yard. asaw, Madaket and Suzanne. Since the election, Avondale When Boyne was not sailing, has vowed to fight the vote. How­ he toured the world as a wrestler. ever, lawyers for the unions in­ He competed in matches in volved said they believe that Australia, New Zealand, England when the challenged ballots are as well as in the United States. settled the employees' vote will Retired SIU official Ed Mooney remain strongly in favor of union sailed with Boyne on the Cavalier representation. out of New York. "He had his black Once the issue of the chal­ belt in karate and kept very physi­ lenged ballots is resolved, the cally fit," Mooney recalled. NLRB can certify that the Boyne came ashore in 1956 employees selected union repre­ and began working his way up sentation. Then, representatives through the union. He serv^ as of management and the unions an organizer in the port of Bal­ involved can begin the process of timore and then became a patrol­ negotiating collective bargaining in ports all around the man agreements for the Avondale country and world including Bos­ workers. ton, Houston, San Francisco, Under the auspices of the New Philadelphia and Puerto Rico. Orleans Metal Trades Department, In 1966, Boyne was trans­ the following um'ons participated in ferred to Yokohama, Japan to, the drive: the Boilermakers, Carserve as assistant to the Far East )enters. Electricians (IBEW), In­ representative, Pete Drews. Among the Seafarers who volunteered their time to assist Avondale employees obtain union repre­ sulators, Iron Workers, Laborers, sentation are (left to right, front row) OMU Luigi Maita, SIU Rep Bob Milan, DEU Armando Medina, QMED Vlachinists, Operating Engineers, "He was a very colorful man James Stewart, AS Jeff Ball, AB Benny Guillot, (back row) DEU Lou Lawrence, DEU Darrell Callais, AB 'ainters. Plumbers and Pipefitters who was popular with the mem­ Joe Purcell, Pumpman James Lancaster, OS Joe Ordoyne and DEU Rogelois Castellanos. bership. TTiey simply adored him, and Sheetmetal Workers. and I believe that was the mysti­ que of his personality," said Mooney In 1967, Drews left Japan and Boyne took over the position of lions upon billions of U.S. told the House panel that the rates charged by American-flag Continued from page 4 Far East representative, covering taxpayers' dollars. Department of Agriculture and carriers to deliver grain to Russia areas such as Japan, Hong Kong, (D-Md.), "We did not provide the "This year alone, more than American farmers dp receive as being out of the control of the the Philippines, Singapore and money to the Russians just to give $17 billion will be paid out in benefits from cargo preference shipping companies. Both Taipei. them the money and say go buy agricultural subsidies," the legislation. pointed out that problems and 'When Boyne walked down the wheat on the world market. Maryland congresswoman delays in offloading at those ports "In paying for both agricul­ the dock, he had the crew in his They could get more wheat on the added. tural foreign aid and the costs re­ force the U.S.-flag companies to right hand. He was always avail­ world market for that money. We "The bottom line is greed, five lated to shipping it to the recipient include the cost of the delays. said you have to buy American letters G-R-E-E-D, pure and nation, the American taxpayer They said the contract signed be­ able night and day for members, wheat, and we also said you have simple! Seventeen billion dollars supports the export of agricultural tween the U.S. and Russia calls and they knew it," Drews to ship in American-flag ships." is not enough for these sacred commodities, the readiness of our for the U.S. to cover the costs in recalled. Brother Boyne married Keiko On June 17, the House Sub­ cows who feed at the public U.S.-flag merchant fleet for na­ delayed offloading whereas Rus­ ^akategawa in Tokyo, Japan on sia picks up committee on Foreign Agricul­ trough." the cost of delays for tional emergencies and our June 3, 1976. She served as his ture and Hunger conducted a Bentley,continued, "I want to nation's role in today's global all other flags. hearing on cargo preference. set the record straight. I am not economy. These are very impor­ Responding to a question from secretary at the SIU hall until it Representative Helen Delich talking about the mom and pop tant benefits accruing to the tax- Representative Robert Smith (R- closed in the early 1980s. 'Frank loved the union and his Bentley (R-Md.) was the only farmer—the family farmers—of )ayer which mutually benefit Ore.) about the cost. Mills said, member of Congress out of a wit- this country. I am talking about >oth U.S. agricultural and "When foreign port agents see a ob. He was very proud to be a ness panel of three repre­ the companies I just mentioned maritime interests," Yim stated. U.S.-flag vessel coming, they lick union officer. He went through a sentatives and Sen. Grassley to —Feruzzi, Louis Dreyfus and ot with the SIU in the early days Vice Commander Wallace their chops?"' testify in favor of the legislation. numerous others—which, like Sansone of the Military Sealift of the union," Mrs. Boyne told a After NAEGA's McCoy those I named, are foreign-owned reporter from the Seafarers Counters Senator's Charge Command told the subconunittee finished his testimony before the and foreign-based." OG. She countered Grassley's that cargo preference helps the U.S. subcommittee. Representative Brother Boyne remained in Repeats Clinton's Pledge charge in which he called the maintain an active private mer­ Charles Rose (D-N.C.) noted the Yokohama for 16 years, until the U.S.-flag merchant industry Acting Maritime Ad­ chant fleeL and much of the sealift association had members with "a closing of the hall when he and his "welfare queens of the high seas" ministrator Joan Yim reiterated available during the Persian Gulf stake in foreign-flag vessels." He wife retired and moved back to by stating, "One can only wonder the Clinton administration's war would not have been available pointed out close to half of the States. They lived in what multinational agribusi­ pledge to enforce cargo without the program. NAEGA's membership is foreign Grayland, Wash. nesses—like Cargill, ADM, preference laws regarding aid to Both Thomas Mills, who tes­ owned. Rose then asked if cargo Dreyfus, Feruzzi, Toepfer, Rich- Russia. tified on behalf of Liberty preference was eliminated, would Brother Boyne was cremated In answer to Subcommittee Maritime, and Jonathan Blank, NAEGA's members cut their and his remains were buried at co, Mitsui, Mitsubishi and many others—should be called for Chairman Timothy Penny's CD- speaking on behalf of OMI Corp., prices, but McCoy avoided the Seafarers Haven in Valley Lee, stuffing their pockets with bil­ Minn.) call for the hearing, she defended the higher shipping question. Md. Continued from page 3 these votes were challenged by the NLRB because the voters did not appear on the voting eligibility list, according to Phil Miller of the New Orleans Metal Trades Council, the federation of unions which spearheaded the or­ ganizing effort. •-sn.r-.:, • 'l- -.•? • The Avondale employees' ef­ forts to unionize were assisted by the eleven unions of the New Or­ leans Metal Trades Council of the AFL-CIO and the Seafarers Inter­ national Union. Several rankand-file union members volunteered their time to the or­ ganizing drive, among them scores of Seafarers. Among those who assisted in the drive was Bob Milan, an SIU patrolman based in New Orleans. He said Seafarers helped hand out union leaflets at the shipyard gate every Tuesday and Thursday in the early morning and in the ^ternoon when employees were entering and leaving work. Admmistraiion Repeats Cargo Preference Pledge r- �• • •;• v-'^ JULY 1993 SEAFARERS LOG Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea August & September 1993 Membership Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, iniand Waters MA Y 16 — JUNE 15,1993 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Trip Reliefs ••REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups OassA Class B Class C Port DECK DEPARTMENT New York 26 28 9 17 18 16 62 42 18 2 Philadelphia 2 8 0 4 10 7 1 9 0 1 Baltimore 13 4 17 1 4 0 8 2 14 0 Norfolk 17 14 6 17 6 23 7 16 9 17 Mobile 12 12 3 8 16 16 16 7 2 1 New Orleans 25 37 6 32 8 24 6 38 9 29 Jacksonville 31 20 10 48 4 19 20 45 9 4 San Francisco 22 25 8 53 48 9 23 14 16 Wilmington 18 18 8 31 30 3 16 10 12 1 Seattle 23 24 4 39 55 20 20 4 11 1 Puerto Rico 12 2 5 18 7 8 7 0 1 0 Honolulu 4 16 10 6 6 15 8 2 22 11 Houston 25 18 37 11 28 6 36 22 2 17 3 St. Louis 0 0 3 2 0 0 .• 1 3 1 Piney Point •• l:v 9 3 1 2 9 1 1 12 1 Algonac 0 2 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 1 Totals 219 252 76 399 185 228 35 71 380 134 Port ENGINE DEPARTMENT 5 New York 25 20 8 35 4 12 12 1 ' 44 7 Philadelphia 3 4 0 3 2 0 . . 0 W' 5 0 4 11 13 1 Baltimore 0 5 1 0 1 . 4 8 7 5 Norfolk 10 14 •^- 5 : ' 4 2 9 3 10 8 0 3 0 0 15 1 Mobile 12 21 19 8 13 1,2 4 3 28 24 9 New Orleans 18 16 6 10 7 23 37 19 Jacksonville 11 2 4 7 6 7 22 1 19 0 32 32 San Francisco 20 20 10 Wilmington 8 14 3 2 11 1 1 19 27 23 7 15 1 15 0 4 Seattle 13 9 3 2 1 3 3 1 7 0 1 11 Puerto Rico 10 6 6 5 14 3 12 4 2 Honolulu 4 8 13 5 26 30 6 15 18 1 1 Houston 0 1 0 0 3 0 1 1 1 St. Louis 1 0 0 5 0 0 4 27 . 0 Piney Point 2 12 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 Algonac 0 1 289 76 139 20 44 253 90 140 181 38 Totals STEWARD DEPARTMENT Port 5 19 0 7 30 14 . 8 8 1 New York 19 4 4 0 1 0 1 1 3 0 1 Philadelphia 1 0 0 4 3 5 2 4 1 Baltimore 0 7 6 3 2 9 8 0 10 Norfolk 9 2 0 8 11 1 0 8 3 5 0 Mobile 3 10 0 4 12 10 10 1 0 New" Orleans 8 12 12 4421 0 7 9 2 Jacksonville 16 1 6 6 85 32 19 4 0 16 San Francisco 39 i 7 1 0 2 18 1 4 12 Wilmington 7 0 6 12 2 31 •03 16 2 20 Seattle 1 0 ,2 5 0 1 4 2 0 0 3 Puerto Rico 19 20 13 16 17 42 12 17 16 Honolulu 9 2 18 10 0 . 4 5 4 5 6 2 Houston 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 St. Louis 0 5 22 2 1 9 0 2 1 3 19 Piney Point 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Algonac 165 52 258 19 81 75 123 108 28 146 Totals ENTRY DEPARTMENT Port 71 42 3 0 22 23 5 T8 40 New York 13 3 6 0 1 2 1 5 1 1 0 Philadelphia 3 7 4 0 0 8 2 3 10 Baltimore 2 28 11 6 6 0 22 4 4 20 7 Norfolk 23 4 0 1 0 :",2 12 13 1 2 Mobile 37 19 9 0 4 • 22 9 8 24 8 New Orleans 40 12 ' 5 0 8 2 3 5 17 3 Jacksonville 58 31 0 41 5 1 14 7 23 San Francisco 20 18 19 0 12 0 6 7 8 1 3 Wilmington 16 24 0 12 14 4 7 6 5 17 Seattle 10 10 12 0 0 5 3 5 6 7 Puerto Rico 69 134 9 130 0 7 60 111 52 4 Honolulu 6 22 9 2 0 11 5 . 5 12 3 Houston 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 St. Louis 3 19 0 1 1 32 0 1 24 1 Piney Point 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 Algonac 437 318 139 0 157 230 60 187 269 78 Totals Totals All 580 1,030 1,290 196 231 672 458 329 810 Departments 583 * 'Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. ** "Registered on the Beach'' means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. A lOiai Of 1^9/ JODS were SllipiJeu «11 uc^p ato T«a*,«a. vr* jwa or about 29 percent were taken by "A" seniority members. The rest were filled by "B" and seniority people. From May 16 to June 15,1993, a total of 196 trip relief jobs were shipped. Since the trip relief pro­ gram began on April 1,1982, a total of 18,926 Jobs have heen shipped. 17 Finey Point Monday: August 2, Tuesday: September 7* *changed by Labor Day holiday New York Tuesday: August 3, September 7 Philadelphia Wednesday: August 4, September 8 Baltimore Thursday: August 5, September 9 Norfolk : ; ; Thursday: August 5^ September 9 Jacksonville WIS' Thursday: August 5, September 9 Algonac Friday: August 6, September 10 Houston Monday: August 9, September 13 New Orleans Tuesday: August 10, September 14 Mobile Wednesday, August 11, September 15 San Francisco Thursday: August 12, September 16 Wilmington Monday: August 16, September 20 Seattle Monday: August 23*, Friday, September 24 *changed by Paul Hall holiday San Juan Thursday: August 5, September 9 St Louis Friday: August 13, September 17 Honolulu Friday: August 13, September 17 Duluth Wednesday, August 11, September 15 Jersey City Wednesday: August 18, September 22 New Bedford Tuesday: August 17, September 21 Each port's meeOngstarte at 10:30 a.m. ^ Personals THOMAS FRANCIS A. MURPHY Please contact your daughter, Frances Murphy Tew, at 3621 BeBee Point Drive, Theodore, AL 36582. BROOKLYN NAVY YARD WORKERS Karen Adelson of the Public Broadcasting Sys­ tem would like to interview anyone who worked at the Brooklyn Navy Yard between the years 1941 and 1945 for an upcoming documentary. Please contact her directly at (212) 663-5008. r . • •. • �18 JULY 1993 SEAFJUIBIS LOe if Seafarers International Union Directory Michael Sacco President John Fay Secretary-Treasurer Joseph Sacco Executive Vice President Augustin Tellez Vice President Collective Bargaining George McCartnCT Vice President West Coast Roy A. "Buck" Mercer Vice President Government Services JackCaffey Vice President Atlantic Coast Byron Kelley Vice President nt Lakes and I)nland Waters Dean Coi•rgey Vice President Gulf Coast HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr. Algonac, MI 48001 (313)794-4988 BALTIMORE 1216 E. Baltimore St. Baltimore, MD 21202 (410)327-4900 DULUTH 705 Medical Arts Building Duluth,MN 55802 (218)722-4110 HONOLULU 606KalihiSt. Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St. Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St. Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JERSEY CITY 99 Montgomery St. Jersey City, NJ 07302 (201) 435-9424 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy. Mobile, AL 36605 (205) 478-0916 NEW BEDFORD 48 Union St. NeAV Bedford, MA 02740 (508) 997-5404 NEW ORLEANS 630 Jackson Ave. New Orleans, LA 70130 (504) 529-7546 NEW YORK 675 Fourth Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718)499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St. Norfolk, VA 23510 (804) 622-1892 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St. Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215)336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75 Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 2 West Dixie Highway Dania, FL 33004 (305) 921-5661 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St. San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Government Services Division (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave. Stop 161^ Santurce, PR 00907 (809) 721-4033 SEATTLE 2505 First Ave. SeatUe, WA 98121 (206)441-1960 ST. LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave. St Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave. Wilmington, CA 90744 (310)549-4000 •T y Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes MAY 16 —JUNE 15,1993 NP—Non Priority L—Lakes CL—Company/Lakes ••REGISTERED ON BEACH •TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac 2 0 . • 0 4 13 10 4 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP DECK DEPARTMENT 0 22 3 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 30 3 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 8 3 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 0 35 9 0 15 6 0 6 1 0 24 17 • "; • H.!:' . K'l; 33 Totals All Departments 0 34 11 0 60 9 0 80 * "Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters MAY 16 •TOTAL REGISTERED Class A Class B Class C Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals Totals All Departments 3 .2 22 1 28 0 4 0 0 4 1 0 19 0 20 0 0 0 0 0 0 6 0 2 0 1 3 54 7 0 : - v.- 4 JUNE 15,1993 ••REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Class A Class B Class C DECK DEPARTMENT 40 0 3 0 0 6 6 4 1 21 0 41 0 7 0 5 30 16 48 0 37 59 36 92 4 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 0 5 2 0 4 0 1 0 0 0 0 27 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 6 0 32 4 1 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 1 0 0 ' •• 5 6 0 1 2 0 0 ' -3, •. 0 0 9 3 0 0 . •• 1 ^ 0 7 7 1 2 14 48 72 5 39 138 2 3 0 1 6 0 24 0 24 48 1 0 0 0 1 0 6 • 0 • ' •.O-* , ^ • •-r:•••''• ^ 0 1 0 2 3 • 0, • 10 68 '0 #1^'. 3 14 * "Total Registered" means the number of men who actually registered for shipping at the port last month. ** "Registered on the Beach" means the total number of men registered at the port at the end of last month. niBM MID R LUNDEBERG SCHOOL S ^ ANNOUNCES COLLEGE COURSES The next session of day and evening college courses at the Lundeberg School will run from July 19 to September 10. To register, fill out the application form in this issue of the Seafarers LOG (page 27), or call the Admissions Department at (301) 994-0010, ext. 214. This session will, offer courses in English, mathematics, physical science, physics and social science. These courses will help. students complete one of the two associate degrees offered at the school—Nautical Science Technology for deck depart­ ment students and Marine Engineering Technology for engine department stu­ dents. ^ PORT ARTHUR, TEXAS MEMBERSHIP MEETING ON JULY 15 A general informational Seafarers membership meeting will be held on Thursday, July 15, 1993 at 2:00 p.m. It will take place at the Ramada Inn on Highway 87 in Port Arthur. Contact the Houston SlU hall for fur­ ther information. SOUTH STREET SEAPORT MUSEUM HOSTS BOAT MODEL FESTIVAL The South Street Seaport Museum and Marketplace will host the third an­ nual New York Ship and Boat Model Festival on August 7 and 8 from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. on Pier 16 of the South Street Seaport Museum. More than ICX) model boat builders will be on hand to introduce visitors to the diverse range of model building traditions. Also on view at the museum will be "Twelve Ties to Tradition: Model Making in New York City" displaying an additional 75 ship models, plus photographs, videos, tools and memen­ tos. For more information, phone (212) 669-9483. -s • I ALTON BELLE CREV^MEMBERS TO MEET JULY 14 Union meetings are scheduled for 1:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July 14, at the Stratford Hotel in Alton, 111. Two meetings are being held so all union members working the different shifts can attend. For more information, call the Alton union hall at (618) 462-3456. ATTENTION: STUDENTS ATTENDING GED CLASSES AT LUNDEBERG SCHOOL Any Seafarer planning to attend the GED course at the Lundeberg School should be advised that they n^ to establish residency in the state of Maryland for at least 12 weeks. For more information, contact the Admissions Office at (301) 994-0010, ext. 214. �•• JULY 1993 F our members who gradu­ ated from the union's top training programs in the steward and deck departments at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship are among the 28 mariners who are retiring as announced by the Seafarers Welfare Plan. Brothers Oral Ipsen and Richard Wardlaw graduated from the bosun recertification course in 1974 while Brother Peter Loik completed the course in 1975. Brother James Jones successfully completed die steward recertification program in 1987. A total of 14 members sign­ ing off from their seagoing careers sailed in the deep sea division while 11 members sailed aboard inland vessels, two were from the Great Lakes and one member came from the Atlantic Fishermen division. Out of the 11 members who sailed in the in­ land division, six sailed as tug­ boat captains. Eleven Seafarers who are beginning their retirements served in the U.S. armed forces: five in the Army, three in the Navy, two in the Marine Corps and one in the Air Force. Brief biographical sketches of Brothers Ipsen, Wardlaw, Loik and Jones, as well as the others, follow. SEAFARERS LOG To Our New Pensioners ... Thanks for a Job Well Done Each month in the Seafarers LOG, the names of SIU members who recently have become pensioners appear with a brief biographical sketch. These men and women have served the maritime industry well, and the SIU and all their union brothers and sisters wish them happiness and health in the days ahead. PETER LOIK, 66, joined the union in 1955 in the port of Bal­ timore. Bora in Canada, he com­ pleted the bosun recertification program at the Lundeberg School in December 1975. Before retiring, he served as a member of the Union Tallying Committe for the 1992 SIU elections. Brother Loik resides in Seminole, Fla. KENNETH STERNER, 65, joined the union in 1945 in the port of Nor­ folk, Va. A Baltimore native, he sailed as a bosun. In 1955 he was called to duty in the U.S. Army. Brother Sterner lives in Deeifield Beach, Ra. ROBERT DUNN, 65, joined the Seafarers in 1971 in his na­ tive Norfolk, Va. He sailed as a chief engineer. Boatman Dunn served in the U.S. Navy from 1948 to 1969. He retired to Vir­ ginia Beach, Va. 19 GEORGE THEMIS, 66, joined the SIU in 1977 in the port of Hous­ ton. Bora in Alabama, he sailed as captain. Boatman Themis resides in Brazoria, Texas. JACK THOMAS SR., 65, joined the union in 1960 in the port of Nor­ folk, Va. A native of . Savannah, Ga., he sailed as a captain. Boatman Thomas served in the U.S. Army from 1948 to 1952. He retired to Aurora, N.C. CALVIN LASSITER,64, joined the Seafarers in RICHARD 1957 in the WARDLAW, port of Hous­ ROY WILLIAMS, 62, joined ton. Bora in 62, joined the Seafarers in 1971 in the Grass Field, the port of Philadelphia. Bora in Ark., he sailed in the deck Seafarers in Chincoteague, Va., he sailed as ROBERT department. Boatman Lassiter 1957 in the a steward/baker/cook. Boatman MEREDITH, port of Hous­ calls Doucette, Texas home. Williams lives in Bloxom, Va. 69, joined ton. A na­ the tive of GREAT LAKES TOMMY PETTY, 63, joined Seafarers in Waco, Texas, he completed the the SIU in 1969 in the port of ALIYEHIA, 1969 in the bosun recertification course at Norfolk, Va. Bora in Hickory, 65, joined port of New the Lundeberg School in 1974. N.C., he sailed as an engineer the SIU in York. A na­ Brother Wardlaw served in the on Allied Towing vessels. Boat­ 1969 in the tive of Los U.S. Army from 1952 to 1953. man Petty retired to Virginia port of Detroit Angeles, he sailed in the deck He calls Romayor, Texas home. Beach, Va. A native of DEEP SEA department. Brother Meredith Arabia, he retired to San Francisco. DONALD JACK sailed as a MARION WHITE, ALVES, 62, porter. RALEY, 65, joined joined the Brother Yehia resides in Detroit. FREDDYS 59, joined the SIU in Seafarers in NUNEZ, the union in 1947 in the 1961 in the CLIFFORD 44, joined 1956 in his port of New port of Seat­ the SIU in TALLEY, native York. A tle. Bom in 1968 in the Mobile, Ala. 65,joined New York Hartford, port of New He sailed as the union in native, he Conn., he 1973 in the York. Bora a captain. sailed in the deck department. sailed in the deck department. port of in Puerto Brother White lives in Anacor- Boatman Raley served in the Brother Alves served in the Rico, he U.S. Marine Corps in 1953. He Duluth, tes. Wash. U.S. Navy from 1951 to 1955. Minn. Bora sailed in the deck department. lives in Theodore, Ala. He resides in Pine Grove, Calif. Brother Nunez upgraded at in Juliette, Ga., he sailed in the deck Piney Point frequently. He LUIS CARRANZA, 71, ELLIS department. Brother Talley retired to Hollywood, Fla. INLAND joined the SlU in 1961 in the SPIVEY, served in the U.S. Marine port of New Orleans. A native 65, joined GENARO Corps from 1944 to 1945. He HENRY the of Honduras, Central America, DeCOLA, retired to Lakeland, Ha. NUTTING, he sailed as a fireman, oiler, Seafarers in 69, joined 69, joined ATLANTIC FISHERMEN watertender. Brother Carranza 1971 in the the union in the union in resides in Metairie, La. port of Port 1972 in his FRANK TRINGALE, 65, 1965 in the Arthur, native Bos­ joined the union in 1961 in port of Hous­ Texas. A ton. He REGALADO Gloucester, Mass. A native of ton. Bora in Horida native, he sailed as a sailed as a FIGUERA, Boston, he sailed as a en­ Hassell, Bel­ captain. Boatman Spivey calls engineer/ 68, joined gineer/captain. Brother Tringium, he Lumberton, Texas home. cook. Boatman DeCola served the union in gale resides in Everett, Mass. sailed in the deck department. in the U.S. Army from 1943 to 1970 in the Brother Nutting resides in St. 1945. He calls Philadelphia port of Wil­ Fairness on Agenda for WWII Mariners Augustine, Fla. home. mington, Calif. Bora LOUIS in Hawaii, SAMUEL he sailed in the deck depart­ FLADE, 64, ment. Brother Figuera calls San PAPPAS, joined the 65, joined SIU in 1961 Francisco home. the in his native Seafarers in Philadel­ ORAL 1947 in the phia. He IPSEN, 65, port of sailed as a joined the Mobile, Ala. captain. Seafarers in A native of Boatman Hade upgraded at 1964 in the Streator, 111., he sailed as a Piney Point frequently. He port of New bosun. Brother Pappas Served served in the U.S. Navy from York. Bora in the U.S. Army from 1954 to 1946 to 1948. He retired to St. in Denmark, 1956. He calls New Orleans Marys, W. Va. he com­ home. pleted the bosun recertification program at the Lundeberg KENNETH School in August 1974. Brother TONY HUDGINS, Ipsen lives in Brooklyn, N.Y. RABAGO, 66, joined 59, joined the union in JAMES JONES, 71, joined 1973 in the the SIU in the SlU in 1967 in the port of A grassroots drive to secure veteran status for those WWII 1966 in the port of Nor­ San Francisco. A Texas native, merchant mariners who sailed between August 15, 1945 and port of New folk, Va. A December 16,1946 was announced by the American Merchant he completed the steward recer­ York. Bora Virginia na­ Marine Veterans at the group's annual convention in Portland, tification program in 1987. tive, he in Texas, he Ore. last month. SIU Vice President George McCartney pledged Brother Jones served in the sailed in the sailed as a captain. Boatman the support of the SIU in^he effort to have Congress recognize U.S. Army Air Force from Hudgins served in the U.S. steward department. Brother those seamen not included in the 1988 government recogniton 1942 to 1943. He retired to Navy from 1944 to 1945. He labago resides in Sante Fe, of merchant rhariners who sailed from December 7, 1941 to Navato, Calif. resides in Mathews, Va. Texas. August 15,1945. •. •• i -I • /" �&.. 20 The Valentine of Lorelei •" by Christopher R. Chuhh Away She swims toward springs of starlit beauty the Muse of Heartfelt Magic seldom stored within Her tail • ••'v.V ' '"V' JULY 1993 SBAFAR£RSLOG Astride the moonlight dimmed Like Esther Williams treading through the silver screen She's paddling fins with floating hair of satin green while reg ranting wavefull kisses without fail She dived from Her tall rock into Succession Spring in trade for a heart of gold to turn Her spring into warmth from cold with new intent (rfending a reign ofdemisefull hail She swims softly now in Missouri springs an immigrant mermaid with empathy for veteran fought rights and for prioritied times of golden moonlight Something I Want to Say LOG-A-RHYTHMS The lure of the sea has been written about for ages. Today's Seafarers are no ex­ ception. The poems on this page reflect the various ways in which the sea affects Seafarers and their families. There is One human who has need of a mere dinghy to ride him through torment of typhoons They should end with him into the seascapes of waterful keys He longs for that leap into such seascapes He is crowded and dreams of Ea or Cannes and on restless starfUled nights, the muse of the Lorelei rock There surely is a sea nymph of ocean studies beside the benefit of love for the crowded human He eyes seaward in hopes of a hint of even an elfin mermaid with desire to leave all that is land to love ballets of Pearl Swim dear Goddesses with love. The crowded human is loved by you. Love him Press him into your bosums and teach him all that needs to be done (Christopher R. Chubb has contributed many poems to the Seafarers LOG over the years. He presently resides in St. Louis.) Behind them their wakes had also trailed leading back to women who'd loudly wailed for men, of whom, they'd likely seen the last as ships, to war and death, they had sailed. Our seamanship and easy life sadly paled in comparison to ancient sailors long past upon whose vanished wakes we trailed while in thought, their bravery, we hailed. The end of our voyage was approaching fast and I'm proud to say that I have sailed over the seas where ancient wakes trailed. (An SIU member since November 1991, Everett W. Snow has had a love affair with the ocean all his life. Formerly with the U.S. Coast Guard, Snow sails as a QMED/electrician.) / love you like I love the sea. You mean everything to me. I miss you. It breaks my heart to go away,, but I have to work to make my \vay, and it's on the sea that I love to work and play. When I come home we'll have our day to love, leam, laugh and play with each other together again my love, my friend. hy Albert W. Austin Jr. Here I am I'm off again. Sailing somewhere I've never been. Off and away to another port. My time ashore it was too short. Sailing away to faraway shores. Making love to all the girls. The sailor's life is the life for me. Sailing the ocean and on the sea. Sailing the world and all the shores. 'Til the day I'm home once more But 'til then I must go. 'Til I return: Goodbye my friendi Once Again by J.S. Mangold I wish she were here, we always seem to be apart. The one I hold ever so dear, deep in the core of my tortured heart. She be this sailor's dream, while she waits for me ashore. She's my sweetly singing siren, one that could hold me, I'll sail no more. To be basked in her love, to be petted and touched all day. Like a queen's favorite dove. My needs cared for in every way. But, like Ulysses of old, I must stay on the sea. Many ventures still untold to be lived through by me. I must steel myself through, keep my throbbing heart at bay. For my time will come soon, to hold her tight one fine day. I'll look into her eyes, (their color changes with her mood) I will tell her no lies, to be apart is no good. But the bills must be met, our debts must be paid. So our minds must be set on my going to sea soon one day. We shall abide in our love, enjoy each other's good graces. We 'II thank the good lord above for the slow, easy paces. Ancient Wakes Ships had been lost and strong walls scaled by men who had lived before the mast on this historic sea upon which we sailed knowing those ancient sailors hadn't failed to live within the lot they'd been cast. I long to be with you night and day but this ship keeps sailing me away. Goodbye My Friend (Albert Austin Jr. sails as an AB. This poem was written while aboard the USNS Sealift Arabian Sea.) hy Everett W. Snow Into the Mediterranean we slowly sailed where heroes travelled in the long ago past as our wake, behind us, whitely trailed. I woke up today to see a photo of your face that's so far away. (Michael J. Cushman has been sailing since 1980, current­ ly aboard the Medusa Challenger. He wrote this poem for his son, Alexander Kane Cushman.) The Mergoddesses hyChrlstopher R. Chuhh There are courses ofunplotted seaways where swim many maidens from key to cratered key Such a freedom compared to Humans They are limited to unshared crowded stockades by MichaelJ. Cushman The Lonely Sailor's Wife hyLisaCator Oh, the lonely life of the sailor's wife, her love is as endless as the sea itself. The days turn into weeks, the weeks turn into months. She keeps the fire burning with the passion in her soul. She praises the sea that will bring her true love back. Back into the life of the lonely sailor's wife. (Lisa Cator is the wife of John Cator III, an SIU member since 1982, who sails as an assistant cook from the port of Baltimore.) Then she 'II see me off, by the gangway she's crying. My shipmates don't scoff, for a sailor's life is so trying. We'll wish they were here. We always seem to be apart. The ones we hold ever so dear, deep in the cores of our tortured hearts. (This poem was written by SIU member J.A. Mangold for his wife, Mary.) % •' -'f.' �• ' • ' •T:.i:\- ••" ' . • ' •• JULY 1993 SEAFARERS LOG Digest of Ships Meetings The Sea/Sarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union ship­ board minutes as possibie. On occasion, b^use of space limitations, some wiii be omitted. Ships minutes first are reviewed by the union's contmct department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships minutes. The minutes are then for­ warded to the Seafarers LOG. LNG AQUARIUS(ETC), January 17—Chairman Jimmie Garner, Secretary F. Robertson, Educational Director E. Abidin, Deck Delegate J. Jagger, Engine Delegate W. Fey. Treasurer reported $150 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked contracts department to look into company paying member's way home in event of death in family. Crew also re­ quested additional cold weather gear. LNG VIRGO (ETC), March 28— Chairman Monte Pereira, Secretary Lein Achmad, Educational Director Randy McKenzie, Deck Delegate John Thompson, Engine Delegate C. Dahchaus, Steward Delegate Glenn Williams. Chairman an­ nounced scheduled safety meeting and encouraged all to attend. He reported George Reilly from ETC visiting ship in Tobata, Japan in April. Treasurer reported $1,375 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman posted letter from SIU headquarters. Crew thanked Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez for response to questions regarding smok­ ing policy and sanitation of bridge. Crew asked contracts department to look into union discounts on airline tickets. Crew thanked steward depart­ ment for good meab. WESTWARD VENTURE (lOM), January 31—Chairman Timotby Koebel, Secretary R. Alexander. Chairman announced payoff and reminded crewmembers to wait for patrolman upon arrival in Tacoma, Wash. Educational director en­ couraged members to keep up with unipn activities by reading LOG. No beefs or disput^ OT reported. Crewmembers asked con­ tracts department to look into emer­ gency crew relief in event of personal crisis. Crewmembers thanked Robert McGee of Tote Company for provid­ ing special dinner. Crew also gave vote of thanks to steward department for excellent work. Crew reported recreation room antenna not working. Chairman reminded crew to use ash trays for cigarette butts and ashes. Steward department reminded crew to keep coffee station on bridge sup­ plied and clean. LNG ARIES(ETC), February 14Chairman Ulus Veacb, Secretary Doyle Cornelius, Educational Direc­ tor Riley Donahue, Deck Delegate Raphael Vargas, Engine Delegate Kevin Conklin, Steward Delegate Udjang Nurdjaja. Chairman wel­ comed new crewmembers and reminded all to upgrade skills at Piney Point. Educational director read and posted letter about SIU scholarship program. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Crewmembers reported Seafarers LOGs received and distributed. CONSTELLATION (Maexsk Lines), March 28—Chairman Bradford Shelly, Secretary Donald Williams, Deck Delegate Scott Murrain. Chair­ man reported new tape rewinder needed. Educational director reminded crew to make sure to have required amount of ship time before upgrading at Lundeberg School. Treasurer reported $699.73 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked chief cook for job well done. Next port: Hueneme, Calif. LIBERTY SEA (Liberty Maritime), March 21—Chairman T,A. Burrell, Secretary Willie Manuel. Chairman announced next payoff and recom­ mended crewmembers donate to SPAD and upgrade skills at Lun­ deberg School. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Galley gang reported salad bar needs repair. •t. LNG TAURUS (ETC), March 21— Chairman Robhyson Suy, Secretary Francis Ostendarp, Educational Director Raymond Culpepper, Deck Delegate John Wells, Engine Delegate Joseph Arnold, Steward Delegate J. Lyson. Chairman praised good crew and reported everyone, in­ cluding captain, complimented mem­ bers. He noted most of crew will be returning when ship completes layup and wished all a good vacation. Secretary said it was pleasurable sail­ ing with great crew. Educational director reminded members to upgrade skills as soon as possible in order to compete in ever-changing shipping industry. He reminded crew­ members to apply for scholarships and Lundeberg School classes. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked contracts department to keep them posted on contract negotiations. Next port: Indonesia. OVERSEAS V7FMA/(Maritime Overseas), March 31—Chairman Robert Zepeda, Secretary E. Haher, Educational Director James Fonville. Deck Delegate James Wil­ liams, Engine Delegate Manuel Holguin, Steward Delegate Lee Harmason. Chairman announced payoff. Educational director announced scholarship deadline is April 15. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked contracts department to con­ sider restrictions when members use benzene products. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang for job well done. Next port: New York. RANGER (Vulcan Carriers), March 21—Chairman Michael Moore, Educational Director Roger Plummer. Deck Delegate Jonathan Weaver, Engine Delegate Gerald Daley. Chairman reported new ice machine. Seafarers LOGs and pack­ age from SIU headquarters received. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked "number one" steward department and discussed advantages of upgrading facilities at Piney Point. Crew thanked Patrolman Bobby Milan for his work in port of New Or­ leans. Next port: Russia. AMERICAN EAGLE(Pacific Gulf Marine), April 25—Chairman Carl Barrett, Secretary Kevin Deegan, Educational Director James Rogers. Chairman announced preparation of ship to shipyard. No beefs or disputed OT reported. CAPE HENRY(lOM), April 23— Chairman Thomas Votsis, Secretary Al Holland, Educational Director Irwin Rousseau, Deck Delegate Troy Cooley, Engine Delegate Troy Flemming, Steward Delegate James Alston. Chairman requested updated news be sent to ship from head­ quarters and union representative meet ship whenever possible. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chair­ man announced ship continuing ser­ vice instead of layup. He reported ship loading in Beaumont and Char­ leston, N.C. before continuing to Somalia. Crew encouraged contracts department to keep up good work. Crew thanked steward department for job well done. Crew discussed impor­ tance of keeping dues updated, donat­ ing to SPAD and MDL and upgrading at Lundeberg School. Chairman reminded crewmembers to support union and keep it strong. Next port: Beaumont. ITS GROTON (Sheridan Transporta­ tion), April 28—Chairman N. Matthey Secretary G.Schwarz, Educational Director A, Alexakis, Deck Delegate A. Ahmad, Engine Delegate Peter Murtaagh, Steward Delegate Michael Hammack. Chair­ man announced crewmembers need to clean vessel before it enters shipyard. He reported tugboat going into dry dock between June 15 and 30. He advised crewmembers^ ex-, pect to be in yard 30 to 45 d»s. He I---,.. -1 'l •] ; (reported vessel will lay up in Mobile, Ala., Tampa, Fla., Norfolk, Va., or Brooklyn, N.Y. Educational director urged members to write Congress about Coast Guard's implementing user fees on z-cards and licenses. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward delegate reported everything running smoothly and thanked deck department for helping galley gang with cookouts. Crew thanked steward department for great cookouts. Chair­ man reminded crew to keep laundry and mess room clean and reported new couch ordered but not yet received. Crew reported good trip. Next portNew York. ITS JACKSONVILLE (Sheridan Transportation), April 2—Chairman Luke Wells, Secretary B. Outlaw, Educational Director Carlos Rodriguez, Deck Delegate Stephen Yursha, Steward Delegate B. San­ tos. Chairman reminded crewmem­ bers not to smoke during meal hours. He announced payoff April 3 in Stapleton, N.Y. He reported good crew working well together with very comfortable ship. He gave vote of thanks on behalf of crew to steward department for keeping vessel ship­ shape and crew well fed. Galley gang thanked crew for keeping galley and mess room area clean. Educational director reported union literature al­ ways available and encouraged crew­ members to read. He urged members to use educational and recreational facilities at Piney Point. Treasurer reported purchase of three bicycles for crew. Deck delegate reported very good and sound department. Engine delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck and steward delegates. Steward delegate thanked crew for coopera­ tion. Crew requested lighter overalls for warm weather. Next port: New York. ITS JACKSONVILLE (Sheridan Transportation), April 25—Chairman Jessie Thomas, Secretary R. Hairton, Educational Director Carlos Rodriguez, Deck Delegate Stephen Yursha, Steward Delegate B. San­ tos. Chairman urged members to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew gave vote of thanks to steward depart­ ment for job well done. LIBERTY STAR (Liberty Maritime), April 4—Chairman Ray Todd, Secret^ H.G, Williams, Educational Director James Thihodeau, Deck Delegate Thomas Bryant, Engine Delegate Isaac Rowel Jr., Steward Delegate Gerardo Lopez. Chairman announced payoff. Secretary reported ship com­ pleted trip to Poland with com and grain. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew reported union mail and Seafarers LOGs received. Crew requested new washer and dryer and reported VCR needs repairs and cleaning. Crew reported excellent job by steward department. Next port: New Orleans. LIBERTY SUN (Liberty Maritime), April 11—Chairman H. Berggren, Secretary C. Hazzard, Educational Director Darren Walker, Steward Delegate Gary Truvia. Chairman an­ nounced payoff upon arrival in New Orleans. No beefs or disputed OT reported. LNG ARIES (ETC), April 18Chairman Ulus Veach, Secretary Doyle Cornelius, Educational Direc­ tor Riley Donahue, Deck Delegate Louis Sorito Jr., Engine Delegate Kevin Conklin, Steward Delegate Udjang Nurdjaja. Chairman reminded crew to rewind and return videotapes to video library. Treasurer reported $489 in ship's fund. No b^fs or disputed OT reported. Crew gave special thanks to SAs Arlene Ringer and Jose Guzman for fine job keeping mess rooms clean and neat. Crew reported everyone en­ joyed pool party. NUEVO SAN JUAN (Puerto Rico l^arine), April 14—Chairman WJ. Card, Secretary R. Fagan, Educa­ tional Director R. Tannis. Chairman reported smooth sailing with ship just out of shipyard. Educational director reported everything mnning great. No beefs or (disputed OT reported. Crew requested new TV and discussed transportation problems at docks. Crew thanked galley gang for great lood. OMI MISSOURI(Vulcan Cairiers), April 25—Chairman Cesar Gutier­ rez, Secretary Clyde Kreiss, Deck Delegate C. Parman, Engine Delegate B. Magliano, Steward Delegate A. Aziz. Chairman reported everything running smoothly with no beefs. Educational director urged members to upgrade at Lundeberg School. Treasurer reported $50 in ship's fund. Crew reported Seafarers LOGs received. Crew discussed dif­ ference between Vulcan and standard union contract. Chairman reported sofa and chairs to be reupholster^ in Egypt and asked crew to please help keep them in good shape. Crew gave vote of thanks to steward department for job well done. Next port Alexandria, Egypt SAMUEL L. COBB (Ocean Ships, Inc.), April 18—Chairman H.G. 21 vin James, Secretary E. Porter, Educational Director Gerald Payne, Deck Delegate G. Hernandez. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next port: Boston. SEA-LAND DISCOVERY(SeaLand Service), April 18—Chairman Nelson Sala^ Secretary J. Gonzalez, Educational Director J.Shuler. Chairman announced payoff in port of Elizabeth, N.J. Secretary urged members to take advantage of oppor­ tunity and upgrade at Lundeberg School. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked steward department for job well done. Next port: San Juan, P.R. SEA-LAND EXPEDITION(SeaLand Service), April 2—Chairman Paulino Floras, Secretary Felipe Orlanda. Crew gave special vote of thanks to steward department mem- A Camel's-Eye View of the City of Hope .vwt • ti ^ j L/f)erfK Sea crewmembers Recertified Bosun Tyrone Burrell and AB Donald McGraw take the most reliable form of transportation to get a panoramic view of Jerusalem (including the Dome of the Rock in the background). Bentz, Secretary Anthony Rivera, Educational Director Rusty Kindred, Deck Delegate Paul Marra, Engine Delegate Rodney Pontiflet, Steward Delegate F. Rosch. Chairman discussed impor­ tance of weekly meetings to keep members strong and active in all union activities. He added members should be very grateful for SIU. He stressed importance of reading Presi­ dent Sacco's report in Seafarers LOG. He urged members to upgrade skills at Piney Point and take ad­ vantage of excellent programs and facilities offered by the union. Chair­ man and crew deeply thanked steward department for excellent job on food and cleanliness of galley and mess hall. They gave extra thanks to Chief Steward Rivera and Chief Cook Rosch. Secretary stressed im­ portance of SPAD donations and reminded members to be faithful and strong to SIU. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman discussed im­ portance of members getting in­ volved in political process involving SIU and American maritime future. Crew announced its appreciation for Bosun Bentz and job he does. bers Chief Steward Orlanda, Chief Cook Alonzo Belcher, SA Luis Revera for job well done. No beefs or disputed OT reported. SEA-LAND HAWAII (Sea Land Service), April 25—Chairman W. Weaver, Secretary G.S. Lynch, Educational Director D. Gordlus, Deck Delegate L, Selico, Engine Delegate R. Williapts, Steward Delegate J. Laureta. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Next port: Oak­ land, Calif. SEA-LAND INNOVATOR (SeaLand Service), April 4—Chairman W. Acievedo, Deck Delegate Ran­ dall Hanke, Engine Delegate Faisal Alshaif, Steward Delegate Randy Witowich. Deck delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegate. Crew reported Seafarers LOGs received. Crewmembers ad­ vised of Long Beach (Calif.) Grand Prix and reminded transportation to port could be hindered. SEA-LAND LIBERATOR (SeaLand Service), April 25—Chairman Joel Miller, Secretary G. Thomas, Educational Director Daniel Dean. Chairman reported good trip without disputes. Secretary reported good voyage with good crew and chief cook. He added GSU James Hines did a "bang-up" job and entire crew sorry to see him sign off. Educational director reminded crew to upgrade at Paul Hall Center as soon as possible. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested rubber pads on chairs because sharp edges ruining tile. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang for job well done. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. MV SENATOR (Crowley American Transport), April 25—Chairman D. Wagner, Secretary R.Seim, Educa­ tional Director W. C. Cameron. Chairman waiting for correspondence from contracts department regarding deck department beef and disputed OT. Educational director urged mem­ bers to upgrade at Paul Hall Center, donate to SPAD and support MDL contributions. Deck delegate reported disputed OT and beef. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegates. Chairman en­ couraged input from members during SEA-LAND PACIFIC(Sea Land contract negotiations that would Service), April 18—Chairman benefit department, members and Lothar Reck, Secretary G. Bronson, SIU. Chairman commended all SIU members for attendance and participa­ Educational Director Steve Bigelow, Deck Delegate Mel Talalotu, Engine tion in weekly union meetings. Chair­ Delegate Prentis Smith, Steward man and entire crew gave Delegate Don Spangler. Chairman outstanding" vote of appreciation to gave vote of thanks to steward depart­ members of steward department for ment for job well done and en­ varied menus and high quality stores. couraged SPAD donations. He urged Secretary and galley gang thanked members to upgrade at Piney Point crewmembers for team spirit in keep­ and reminded crew to keep mess hall ing entire ship clean. Next port: Port in order. He reported news of new Everglades, Ida. contract not yet received. Educational SEA-LAND ATLANTIC (Spa \.and i direptor reminded members Pjney Service), April 11—Chairman CalContinued on page 22 • �..%y*^:.j.::':;5;:' 22 Ships Digest Continued from page 21 Point is the place to upgrade. He sug­ gested any member widi questions about new contract should write them down and send to headquarters. Deck delegate reported beefs and disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegates. Crew reported Seafarers LOGs received. Crew reported new washing machine and dryer in crew laundry and new microwave oven in lounge. Chairman reminded crew to keep laundry, rooms and loiinge clean. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. • .• v' JULY 1993 SEAFARERSLOG replacements and announced new crewmembers will sign on ship in Norfolk, Va. Steward delegate reminded everyone to use scoop in ice machine when getting ice. DEU gave special thanks to deck depart­ ment for keeping rooms clean, and crew thanked galley gang for good food. DSNS BARTLETT(Bay Ship Management), April 19-^hairman Thomas Gagnon, Secretary C. Fincher, Educational Director Eric Sutton, Engine Delegate David Seabrook, Steward Delegate James Jordan. Chairman announced new contract with Bay Ship and thanked all crewmembers. Educational direc­ tor wged members to upgrade skills at Lundeberg School. Steward delegate reported b^f. No beefs or disput^ OT reported by deck or engine delegates. Chairman reported VCR to be replaced and barbecue pit for cookouts will be built in Gulfpoit, Miss. while anchored. Chairman reminded crew signing off to leave clean linen sets for replacements and leave dirty linen outside room. He thanked chief cook and three SAs for jobs well done. Educational director reminded all disembarking crew to check upgrading schedule and attend Lun- deberg School. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew reported Seafarers LOGs received and dis­ tributed. Crew thanked all depart­ ments for enjoyable pool parties. LNG LIBRA (ETC), May 23- Chairman Tom Hawkins, Secretary Kris Hopkins, Education^ Director George Lindsay, Deck Delegate John Gibbons, Engine Delegate John Hoskins, Steward Delegate Jill Prescott Chairman thanked all crew­ SEA-LAND QUAtny (Sea-Land members for making this a good tour. Service), April 18—Chairman Carr He reported it was the best gang he mine Bova, Secretary Terry Smith, sailed with in a long time. Secretary Educational Director Kenneth thanked crew for helping keep mess Linah. Chairman announced payoff hall and pantry area clean. He in Elizabeth, N.J. Educational direc­ reported those signing off will be CHARLESTON (Apex Marine), tor urged members to upgrade skills missed. Secretary also reminded crew May 16—Chairman Anthony at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or dis­ of Coast Guard inspection and weekMaben, Secretary R. Poovey, Educa­ long visit aboard vessel. He asked puted OT reported. Chairman tional Director Richard Gracey, reminded crewmembers to rewind departing crew to please clean rooms Deck Delegate Thomas Cuddihy, movies before returning to shelf. and turn in keys and linens. Educa­ Engine Delegate Robert Scott, Next port: Boston. tional director stressed importance of Steward Delegate J. Collins. Crew SEA-LAND SHINING STAR (Sea- gave vote of thanks to galley gang for getting maritime bill pass^ before it's too late. He urged members to Land Service), April 11—Chairman job well done. Crew requested new pay attention during monthly union A.A. Mohsin, Secretary Curtis Phil­ washing machine and dryer. Next meetings and become involved in lips, Educational Director J. Haiim. port: Baton Rouge, La. union politics because membership Chairman announced payoff upon ar­ livelihood could depend on it. He ITB PHILADELPHIA (Sheridan rival in port and discussed impor­ urged members to upgrade at Paul Transportation), May 18—Chairman tance of upgrading skills at Piney Hall Center. Treasurer reported $145 V,T. Nielsen, Secretary M. Andino, Point and SPAD donations. No beefs in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed Educational Director Brian Senor disputed OT reported. Chairman OT reported. Crew reported gelamb. Deck Delegate Joseph reminded members to drop dirty Seafarers LOGs received and dis­ Turocy, Engine Delegate Carlos linen in linen locker, not laundry tributed. Crew thanked galley gang Bonefont, Steward Delegate Jack room, and not to use so much soap for job well done. Next port: BonHart. Educational director reminded when washing. He reminded crewtang, Indonesia. crew about importance of SPAD and members to clean up after themsel­ upgrading to acquire technical skills ves. Next port: Elizabeth, N.J. OVERSEAS JOYCE (Maritime necessary on modem vessels. No ' Overseas), May 2—Chairman R. SEA-LAND VALUE (Sea-Land Ser- beefs or disputed OT reported. Bradford, Secretary P. Alvarez. vice), April 25—Chairman D. Leon, NG AQUARIUS(ETC), May lb- Chairman announced payoff upon ar­ Secretary A. Hassan, Deck Delegate rival in port. Secretary encouraged Chairman Thomas Brooks, T. Kilbride. Crew gave vote of crewmembers to upgrade skills at Secretary JeflT Yarmola, Educational thanks to galley gang for job well Paul Hall Center, ^ucational direc­ Director J. Orr, Deck Delegate done. Next port: Elizabeth, N.J. tor reminded members to donate to Woodrow Shelton, Engine Delegate SEAUFT ANTARCTIC (IMC), SPAD. Crew reported Seafarers Bruce Zenon, Steward Delegate B. April 24—Chairman Steve LOGs received while in Japan. Crew Cardenas. Chairman reported crew Hansford, Secretary James Swartk, thanked galley gang for very tidy looking forward to vacation. Educational Director James Fox, ship. Secretary reported smooth trip. Deck Delegate Brian Johnston, En­ Educational director encouraged OVERSEAS NEW YORK gine Delegate Martin Reedy, members not to delay upgrading op­ (Maritime Overseas), May 19— Steward Delegate Mohsin Abdulla. portunities available at Paul Hall Cen­ AO James Fox elected new education­ ter. He reminded crewmembers to fill Chairman T. Alanano, Secretary G. White, Educational Director Ed­ al director. No beefs or disputed OT out Piney Point application soon. ward Self, Steward Delegate Dennis reported. Chairman thanked steward Treasurer reported $125 in ship's Skretta. Chairman announced payoff department for great food and fund. Np beefs or disputed OT in Long Beach, Calif. The captain reported it was a real morale booster reported. Chairman reported on asked crewmembers to keep showers aboard ship. Next port: Manchester, recent discussion with Vice President and laundry room clean. Educational Wash. Contracts Augie Telez by phone. director urged members to upgrade Chairman reminded crewmembers to SGT. MATEJ KOCAK(Waterman skills at Piney Point. No beefs or dis­ read Seafarers LOG and keep inSteamship Co.), April 18—Chairman puted OT reported. Crew thanked gal­ 1 brmed on current events. Anjelo Urit, Secretary L. Gamble, ley gang for job well done. Educational Director D. Peteson, LNG ARIES (ETC), May 10— iOVERSEAS OHIO (Maritime Over­ Deck Delegate Don Filoni, Engine Chairman Ulus Veach, Secretary seas), May 11—Chairman George Delegate Robert Hines, Steward Doyle Cornelius, Educational Direc­ Schnj, Secretary Earl Gray, Educa- , Delegate Antonio Prezmik. Chair­ tor Riley Donahue, Deck Delegate tional Director D. Bantista, Deck man announced payoff at next port Louis Sorito Jr., Engine Delegate Delegate Thomas Howell, Engine and reported everything running Cevin Conklin, Steward Delegate Delegate R.J. Butch, Steward smoothly. Educational director Udjang Nurdjaja. Chairman an­ Delegate Shari Smithson. Chairman stressed importance of upgrading at nounced ETC/Dodwell will repatriate reported ship running smoothly and Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT as many as possible on arrival day announced arrival in Long Beach, reported. Crew reported Seafarers and reminded all crewmembers to ad- Calif, on May 16. Secretary advised LOGs received and thanked LOG iiere to company policy while ashore. crew of policy conceming plastic staff for enjoyable reading. Chairman He thanked galley gang for coopera­ waste disposal. Educational director reminded members to clean room for tion in sorting wet and dry garbage reminded crewmembers to consider upgrading facilities at Lundeberg School to raise pay and quality for ships. Treasurer reported movies pur­ chased with ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew reported new washing machine installed and thanked galley gang for job well done. Galley Gang Keeps Up Shipboard Morale ' r •.'t. Crewmembers aboard the Charleston are in the capable hands of the ship's steward department. They are (from the left) Chief Steward Revels Poovey, GSU Johnis Christian, Third Cook Roderick Coleman, BR Jason Collins and Chief Cook Lawrence Winfield. PAUL BUCK(Ocean Shipholding), May 9—Chairman J.Cochran, Secretary D. Wuerth, Educational Director Karl Friebel, Deck Delegate Robert Schindler, Engine Delegate Albert Hadley. Chairman reported washer and dryer need repairs or replacement. Secretary reported elections for educational director and chairman need to take place due to those officers temporari­ ly signing off to take care of family emergencies. Treasurer reported $325 in ship's fund to be kept by cap­ tain during shipyard period. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew re­ quest^ patrolman at ship payoff in shipyard. Next port: Norfolk, Va. Deck Delegate Wayne Casey, En­ gine Delegate D, Dobbins, Steward Delegate F. Aral. Treasurer reported $254.44 in ship's fund and $87 in crew's fund, out of which' came $20 for new VCR remote. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Chairman reported new couch for crew lounge received and reminded crewmembers to keep crew lounge and laundry doors closed. Crew requested vegetable oil be used in deep fryer, instead of shor­ tening or lard, for health reasons. Next port Long Beach, Calif. Delegate Hernando Bansuelo, En­ gine Delegate Gary Mitchell, Steward Delegate Allan Sim. Chair­ man announced payoff upon arrival. No beefs or disputV OT reported. Crew thanked steward department for Feeding the Crew SEA-LAND CONSUMER(SeaLand Service), May 2—Chairman William Mortier, Educational Direc­ tor Olie Webber, Deck Delegate Rus­ sell Haynes. Chairman discussed union solidarity with crewmembers. Treasurer reported $125 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested water-tight door for engineroom. SEA-LAND DISCOVERY(Sea Land Service), May 16—Chairman Nelson Sala, Secretary J. Gonzalez, Educational Director J. Shuler. Chairman announced layup of ship at end of May. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked galley gang for job well done. SEA-LAND ENTERPRISE (SeaLand Service), May 2—Chairman Elex Cary, Secretmy F.M. Douroudous, Educational Director Ray Chapman, Engine Delegate W^ter Price, Engine Delegate Charles Kichak. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Crew asked con­ tracts department to clarify steward department responsibilities. SEA-LAND MARINER (Sea-Land Service), May 16—Chairman Perry Greenwood, Secretary Mark Scardino. Deck Delegate Arnold Lopez, Engine Delegate Jose Ortiz, Steward Delegate R. DewitL Educational director reminded members to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center and donate to SPAD. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Crew discussed transportation problems while vessel docked in Europe. Crew asked con­ tracts department to send copies of new contracts to steward along with crew lists and SIU ship minutes forms.' Next port: Rotterdam, Nether­ lands. SEA-LAND PA TRiOT(Sea-Land Service), May 2—Chairman Shawn Evans, Vocational Director R. Hamil. Chairman reminded crew to separate trash and thanked all mem­ bers for good trip and keeping ship clean. Educational director urged members to use upgrading facilities at Piney Point for own benefit. He en­ couraged crewmembers to watch safety films and report problems to proper department head. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew reported Seafarers LOGs received. Crew thanked chief cook for job very well done and thanked GSU for keeping things clean and well stocked. Next port: Oakland, Calif. SEA-LAND PRODUCER (SeaLand Service), May 16—Chairman Carrol Heick, Secretary Jennifer Jim, Educational Director James Smitko. Chairman announced ship's arrival in Oakland, Calif, on Tuesday May 18 at 0800. He informed crew company will no longer provide van to pick up crewmembers for shuttle service to ship from all ports. Chair­ man reminded crew to rewind and return movies to movie room. Treasurer reported $577 ship's movie fund and reminded crew to put re­ quests on crew wish list for next trip. No beefs or disputed OT reported. SEA-LAND RELIANCE (Sea-Land Service), May 14—Chairman R. McGongle, Secretary G. Sivley, Educa­ tional Director A. Jaramillo, Steward Delegate Leon Fountain. Chairman asked crew to please use tunnel in port and reminded crew to keep plastics separated from other garbage. He thanked crew for smooth trip. Vucational director encouraged all members to upgrade at Lunde^rg School. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew reported Seafarers LOGs received. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. RICHARD G. MATTHIESEN SEA-LAND SHINING STAR (Sea(Ocean Shipholding), May 5—Chair­ Land Service), May 11—Chairman man J.T. Martin, Secretary CJ.Mos- Al Austin, Secretary PhiUlps Curtis, ley. Educational Director W.Parrish, Educational Director J. Halim, Deck Chief Cook Jack Hart (left) and Steward Joe Emidy prepare a tasty meal before the ITB Philadelphia's union meeting. fine food and job well done. Crew also reported great crew on vessel makes job more fun while on board. Chairman reminded crewmembers to pay dues and stay in good standing with union. He encouraged SPAD donations for good and welf^ of SIU and members. He reminded crewmem­ bers Piney Point is for members, so use it Crew asked contracts depart­ ment to send change-of-address cards. Next port Elizabeth, NJ. SEALIFT ANTARCTIC (IMC), May 16—Chairman Steve Hansford, Secretary James Swart, Educational Director James Fox, Deck Delegate Brian Johnston, Engine Delegate Martin Reedy, Steward Delegate Mohsin Abdulla. Educational direc­ tor encouraged members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or dis­ puted OT reported. Crew gave round of applause for fine meals prepared by galley gang. Next port: Taiwan. ULTRASEA (Sealift), May 9— Chairman M. Noble, Secretary Wil­ liam Williams, Deck Delegate Michael Jackson, Engine Delegate E. Scott, Steward Delegate Joseph " Patrick. Chairman announced pos­ sible docking in Louisiana for one-totwo-week layup. He reported TV antenna needs additional repairs. Treasurer reported $56 in ship's fund. Deck delegate reported dis­ puted OT. No beefs or disputed OT by engine or steward delegates. Crew reported reading Seafarers LOG. Chairman reminded crewmembers everyone sleeps at different hours of day, so please keep noise to mini­ mum and don't slam doors. He reminded all crewmembers to work together to keep lounge clean. Next port: New Orleans. £/SA/5 C4P>1SL£(USMM1), May 2—Chairman C. Kriensky, Secretary M. Hopper, Educational Director D. Harrison, Deck Delegate Paul Pitcher, Engine Delegate Don Har­ rison, Steward Delegate Jesse HarL Chairman discussed ship policy in­ cluding noise, attire, conduct and lan­ guage . Crew thanked steward department for job well done. USNS WILKES (Bay Ship Manage­ ment), May 10—Chairman Raymond Yager, Secretary Ben Henderson, Vocational Director Clarence Brown, Deck Delegate John Robins, Engine Delegate Michael Rueter, Steward Delegate Donald Mann. Chairman reported smooth sailing and stated he was especially pleased with deck gang. Secretary reported crew voted to reimburse Radio Officer John Giles for videotapes. Educational director reminded crew to upgrade at Lun­ deberg School. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Purser ClifTord Stephens informed crewmembers of upcoming events and answered crew questions regarding foreign articles and crew pay. Chairman reminded crew that everyone is to do part in keeping crew mess and lounge clean. Next port: Honolulu. i7 • .cAVilifrnirii �SEAFARERS LOG 23 •;• ... •• r-- ;,-*rV'., Busy making reservations for the mid-afternoon riverboat cruise is Kristen Guiotta. Smiling, Kini Johnson takes care of group sales and reservations. The new shop steward of housekeep­ ing, Chris Corethers (right), and Deck­ hand Rich Schaus become fast friends aboard the Alton Belle II. New Boat Sails from AHon Landing Continued from page 6 Harold Stanton takes out the trash after the evening cruise down the Mississippi. He has worked in housekeeping since the original Alton Belle began operations in 1991. Day shop steward for the wait staff is Lataua Applegate. SIU members praised the level of cohesiveness and solidarity among workers that they say make each day at theA/ronfie//e//enjoyable. Kara Twichell, guest services representative, proclaimed, "Ijust love it. I used to work in the company office and I like it so much better here. I love the hours and the great people that I work with." Sandy Leuty, also with guest services, has been >vith the Alton Belle and the SlU since the beginning. She added, "I like the union and the great representation that we get. The union makes a difference." "Everything is better working for the union," said Michele Kasten, a evening shift cocktail waitress who used to work on the Riverwalk in St. Louis. Cashier Elmer Valladares stated he enjoys interacting with customers while working as a cashier in the upstairs buffet of the landing. "I like my job. It's good knowing I have a union here for me," Valladares noted, who has been a member of the SIU for nine months. "Without the SIU, I probably wouldn't have a job. They have helped me out a lot," said cocktail waitress Anne Oglesby, who has been with the company and the union for two years. The riverboat cruise takes 90 minutes as the vessel sails six miles up the Mississippi River along the Illinois shoreline and then returns to Alton. Patrons are permitted aboard 30 minutes before sailing and may stay aboard an additional 30 minutes after docking, The Alton Belle II is fitted with 650 slot machines, including video poker and video keno, 29 blackjack tables, four craps tables, two roulette wheels and one Big Six wheel. The original Alton Belle, which was designed to look like an oldfashioned Mississippi paddlewheel riverboat, was taken out of service when the Alton //arrived in town. Company officials said they are attempting to sell it. A new member of the housekeeping department, Isaac Williams, cleans the glass doors of the Landing before the evening cruise begins. Carey Lindsay sells Belle memorabilia in the gift shop located in the Landing. I' y (>• Bartender Mary Bayhylle works the day shift in the Sports Lounge located in the Landing. Housekeeping members (left to right) Patrick Taylor, Robin Allen and Tim Gore work together to keep the Alton Belle Hand Land/ny clean. Captain John Mosele and Relief Captain Jerry Wendle (far right) navigate the riverboat down thle Mississippi. /A- •H Alton Landing galley member Sheila Pennell prepares chicken stir-fry for the upstairs buffet. -r -f- Piasa House workers prepare for a busy day at the Alton Landing. They are (left to right) Evey Smith, Mike Foster and Anna Crimmins. Serving drinks in the afternoon aboard the Landing is cocktail waitress Vicki Kirkpatrick. �JULY 1993 24 SBAFARERSLOG ws Inquiring Seafarer ^ j' T" • .-•s' Kevin Bleau, Question: What was your first ship, Deckhand—My and what do you remember about it? first ship was the (Asked of SIU members on ships in H. Lee White dsrA Cleveland, Ohio and Erie, Pa.) we sailed from David Hubbard, Marquette, Mich, Gateman—My to Ashtabula, first ship was in Ohio. I remember 1969, the Henit was so cold but nipen and it sailed it was a great idea from Stoneport, to join the Seafarers. My first trip we Mich, to Alpena, got stuck under the Mackinaw Bridge Mich, and into for two days in heavy ice. It was pretty Detroit. This was weird, but I loved it. My brother is a my first job and I Seafarer too and is upgrading to AB at wore dress pants and a white shirt, Piney Point. which turned out to be all wrong! Some Dave Cameron, of the old-timers will still remember this. I had no idea what a gateman was. QMED—My first I thought it was someone who stood on ship was the Har­ deck and opened gates for people com­ ris N. Snyder in 1968. It was a ing aboard. I found out in a big hurry coal burner and though! I love the SIU and my only carried about a regret is not beginning earlier. third of the cargo Joe Scbmanski, we now carry. Deckhand—My We sailed from first ship was the Toledo, Ohio to Marquette, Mich, to Columbia from Chicago and everywhere. It was my Detroit and then I first experience on the Great Lakes and sailed as a deck­ I liked the people. Everyone was a big hand on the Boblo happy family. Island boats. I David Gapske, like sailing. Deck Utility—My first ship was the William Roesch. I Douglas P. Rumremember think­ ball, Oiler—My ing there were too first job was as a many clamps, OS on the Boblo twice as many as Island boats, then American Steam­ I went on to be a ship. The crews wiper on the are great and I was ready to stay on the Richard Reiss. I joined the SIU be­ Lakes. cause I was Eugene Repko, around Seafarers all of my life. My Deckhand—My father and grandfather owned a tug com­ first ship was the pany out of Erie, Pa. and they would George F. Rand travel the lake areas. My grandfather on October 20, sailed on the Mary Chapman Scott and 1959 out of my father sailed with Great Lakes Tug. Toledo, Ohio. It is scrap now. The James Corbran, ships are more Watchman—My modem now but first ship was the I've been in 33 years and have no hurts. E.P. Smith ' operated by Rick Springs, American Steam­ Conveyormanship out of Buf­ My first ship was falo, N.Y. I voted the C.L Austin the SIU in on the from Duluth, Lakes in 1960. Minn, to Buffalo, We voted 22 ships into the SIU and that N.Y. On my first is how I got into the SIU. I've been sail­ trip we went into ing for 33 years and with this company Superior, Mich, 22 years. I've upgraded at Piney Point sightseeing. and I recommend other guys go and There was always soihething fiin, but it upgrade. I had a good time down in was hard work. Piney Point, Md. The Best Part of Summer Is Yet to Come—at Piney Point .'• ^'• • One of the benefits of membership in the SIU is being able to take advantage of the facilities at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, the complex embodying the Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, Md. We are not just speaking here about the educational opportunities available at the school; rather, the relying sidejof life-staking a much deserved vacation. Seafarers and their families may stay at the Lundeberg School for up to two weeks this summer, enjoying the school's comfortable acommodations, use of recreational activities (fishing, boating, tennis, swimming, exercise room) and three meals a day. And the school's ideal location means an easy drive to many areas of historical impor­ tance in the metropolitan Washington, D.C. area. The daily cost per member is $40.40. For a spouse or a child, the cost is $9.45 per d^y. Space is still available, so call now to make reservations. The number is (301) 994-0010. Know Your Rights PAYMENT OF MONIES. No FINANCIAL REPORTS. The con monies are to be paid to anyone in any stitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District makes specific official capacity in ^e SIU unless an officii provision for safeguarding the union receipt is given for same. Under no membership's money and union finances circumstances should any member pay any The constitution requires a detailed audit money for any reason unless he is given by certified public accountants every such receipt. In the event anyone attempts year, which is to be submitted to the mem­ to require any such payment be made bership by the secretary-treasurer. A yearly without supplying a receipt, or if a member finance committee of r^-and-file mem­ is required to make a payment and is given bers, elected by the membership, each year an official receipt, but feels that he or she examines the finances of the union anc should not have been required to make such reports fully their findings and recommen­ payment, this should immediately be dations. Members of this committee may reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS make dissenting reports, sp^ific recom­ AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the mendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU constitution are available in all union SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inlanc halls. All members should obtain copies of Waters District are administered in ac­ this constitution so as to familiarize them­ cordance with the provisions of various selves with its contents. Any time a member trust fund agreements. All these agree­ feels any other member or officer is at­ ments specify that the trustees in charge tempting to deprive him or her of any con­ of these funds shall equally consist of stitutional right or obligation by any union and management representatives methods, such as dealing with charges, tri­ and their alternates. All expenditures and als, etc., as well as all other details, the disbursements of trust funds are made member so affected should immediately only upon approval by a majority of the notify headquarters. trustees. All trust fund financial records EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are are available at the headquarters of the guaranteed equal rights in employment various trust funds. and as members of the SIU. These rights SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member's are clearly set forth in the SIU constitution shipping rights and seniority are protected and in the contracts which the union has exclusively by contracts between the negotiated with the employers. Conse­ union and the employers. Members quently, no member may be discriminated should get to know their shipping rights. against because of race, creed, color, sex, Copies of these contracts are posted and national or geographic origin. If any available in all union halls. If members member feels that he or she is denied the believe there have been violations of their equal rights to which he or she is entitled, shipping or seniority rights as contained the member should notify union head­ in the contracts between the union and the quarters. employers, they should notify the SEAFARERS POLITICAL AC­ Seafarers Appeals Board by certified TIVITY DONATION — SPAD. SPAD mail, return receipt requested. The proper is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds address for this is: are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering Augustin Tellez, Chairman the political, social and economic inter­ Seafarers Appeals Board ests of maritime workers, the preservation 5201 Auth Way and furthering of the American merchant Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are marine with improved employment op­ available to members at all times, either by portunities for seamen and boatmen and writing directly to the union or to the the advancement of trade union concepts. Seafarers Appeds Board. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political can­ CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU didates for elective office. All contribu­ contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and con­ tions are voluntary. No contribution may ditions under which an SIU member works be solicited or received because of force, and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members job discrimination, financial reprisal, or should know their contract rights, as well as threat of such conduct, or as a condition their obligations, such as filing for overtime of membership in the union or of employ­ (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper ment. If a contribution is made by reason manner. If, at any time, a member believes of the above improper conduct, the mem­ that an SIU patrolman or other union official ber should notify the Seafarers Interna­ fails to protect their contractual rights tional Union or SPAD by certified mail properly, he or she should contact the within 30 days of the contribution for nearest SIU port agenL investigation and appropriate action and EDITORIAL POLICY — THE refund, if involuntary. A member SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG should support SPAD to protect and fur­ traditionally has refrained from publish­ ther his or her economic, political and ing any article serving the political pur­ social interests, and American trade poses of any individual in the union, union concepts. officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful If at any time a member feels that any to the union or its collective membership. of the above rights have been violated, or This established policy has been reaf­ that he or she has been denied the con­ firmed by membership action at the Sep­ stitutional right of access to union records tember 1960 meetings in all or information, the member should imme­ constitutional ports. The responsibility diately notify SIU President Michael for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, editorial board which consists of the return receipt requested. The address is: executive board of the union. The ex­ Michael Sacco, President ecutive board may delegate, from Seafarers International Union among its ranks, one individual to carry 5201 Auth Way out this responsibility. Camp Springs, MD 20746. J y / /• '..yv �JULY 1993 SEAFARERS LOG 25 Filial Departures DEEP SEA FELIPE BUMANGLAG Pensioner Felipe Bumanglag, 82, passed away April 25. Bom in the Philippines, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1945 in the port of San Francis­ co, before that union merged with the SIU's Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters Division (AGLIWD). Brother Bumanglag retired in August 1973. GIN LUN CHAN Pensioner Gin Lun Chan, 67, died May 13. A native of China, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1957 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the AGLIWD. Brother Chan began receiving his pension in September 1990. ALBERT COLES Pensioner Albert Coles, 70, passed away May 10. Bom in Remo, Va., he joined the SlUin 1943 in the port of New York. Brother Coles sailed as a bosun. He retired in November 1983. MICHAEL COLUCCI Pensioner Michael Colucci, 66, died May 5. A native of Brook­ lyn, N.Y., he joined the Seafarers in 1944 in the port of New York. Brother Colucci sailed in the deck department. He also served as a patrolman in New York. He began receiving his pension in November 1975. JOSEPH CZERWINSKI Pensioner Joseph Czerwinski, 77, passed away April 15. Bom in Tomn, Poland, he joined the SlU in 1951 in the port of New York. He sailed as a fireman, oiler, watertender. Brother Czer­ winski retired in January 1982. RAMON ENCARNACION Pensioner Ramon Encamacion, 81, died May 11. Bom in Puerto Rico, he was a charter member of the union, joining in 1938 in the port of New York. Brother Encamacion sailed in the engine department, where he taught members how to oil Liberty sWps. He began receiv­ ing his pension in March 1971. TOMMY GONZALES Pensioner Tommy Gon­ zales, 87, passed away May 2. A na­ tive of Magsinga Llocos Sur, in the Philippines, he joined the Seafarers in 1961 in the port of Seattle. Brother Gon­ zales sailed as a chief cook. He retired in May 1992. CHILTON HALL Pensioner Chilton Hall, 69, died May 4. Bom in Alabama, he joined the SlU in 1967 in the port of New York. j^-i^'iwiii»-:4^ ... Brother Hall sailed in the engine department. He served in the U.S. Navy,from 1941 to 1945 and from 1950 to 1954. He retired in August 1991. PEDROJIMENEZ Pensioner Pedro Jimenez, 91, passed away April 11. A Puerto Rico native, he joined the union in 1949 in the port of New York. Brother Jimenez sailed in the engine department. He began receiving his pension in October 1968. ANDERSON JOHNES Anderson Johnes, 81, died May 5. Bom in Mis­ souri, he joined the SlU in 1940 in the port of Tampa, Ra. Brother Joh­ nes sailed as a bosun. He served in the U.S. Army from 1943 to 1945. WILLIAM JONES Pensioner William Jones, 89, passed away April 5. A North Carolina native, he joined the Vlarine Cooks and Stewards in 1923 in the port of Sari FranciscOj before that union merged with the AGLIWD. He retired in April 1966. MIKKONUOTIO Pensioner Mikko Nuotio, 67, passed away April 24. Bom in Finland, he joined the SlU in 1968 in the port of San Francis­ co. Brother Nuotio sailed in the deck department. He upgraded frequently at Piney Point. Brother Nuotio served in the Fin­ nish Army from 1943 to 1945. He retired in January 1992. CHARLES O'DONNELL Pensioner Charles O'Donnell, 76, died May 10. A native of Ireland, he joined the union in 1961 in the port of Seattle. Brother O'Donnell sailed in the engine department. He began receiving his pension in October 1977. JOSEPH PASINOSKY Pensioner Joseph Pasinosky, 77, passed away May 14. Bom in Pennsyl­ vania, he joined the Seafarers in 1941 in the port of New York. Brother Pasinosky sailed as a bosun. He retired in December 1965. SOLON PATERAS Pensioner Solon Pateras, 88, died May 1. A native of Cypras, he joined the SlU in 1943 in the port of Baltimore. Brother Pateras sailed in the deck department. He began receiving his pension in 1970. Seafarers in 1944 in the port of New York. He sailed as a chief cook. Brother Sanchez received a union personal safety citation in 1960 for sailing aboard an acci­ dent-free ship, the SS Frances. He retired in September 1979. MIKOLOJ STRAWINSKI Pensioner Mikoloj Strawinski, 72, died May 17. A native of Russia, he joined the SlU in 1951 in the port of New York. Brother Strawinski sailed in the engine department. He served in the Polish merchant marine from 1939 to 1945. He began receiving his pension in March 1986. WILLIAM TERRELL Pensioner William TerreU,69, passed away May 2. Bom in West Vir­ ginia, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1962 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the AGLIWD. He sailed as a chief cook. Brother Terrell retired in March 1989. Ra. He sailed as a fireman, oiler, watertender. Brother Wallace upgraded at the Lundeberg School in 1981. He served in the U.S. Air Force fitrm 1951 to 1953. BRUNO WOTURSKI Pensioner Bmno Woturski, 80, passed away May 3. A native of Delaware, he joined the SlU in 1946 in the port of Philadelphia. Brother Woturski sailed in the deck department. He retired in August 1977. ORIGE WRIGHT Pensioner Orige Wright, 69, died Sep­ tember 11, 1992.: Bom in Houston, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1942 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the AGLIWD. Brother Wright retired in 1974. • -f ,v. LARRY YOUNG Pensioner Larry Young, 74, passed away May 12. A China native, he joined the Seafarers in 1951 in the port of New York. He sailed in the steward department Brother Young began receiving his pen­ sion in July 1986. JESSE THRASHER Pensioner Jesse Thrasher, 68, INLAND died May 8. JOHN CUFF Bom in Pensioner John Cuff, 71, died Springfield, May 9. He joined the union in Ohio, he 1961 in his native Philadelphia. joined the Boatman Cuff sailed as a captain. Seafarers in JAN He served in the U.S. Navy from 1971 in the port of San Francis­ RACHEL 1943 to 1945. Boatman Cuff co. Brother Thrasher completed Pensioner Jan retired in July 1978. the steward recertification course Rachel, 69, at the Lundeberg School in 1981. SIEGFRIED GIBBS MARKPITTMAN died May 7. He served in the U.S. Navy from Pensioner Pensioner Bom in 1942 to 1962. Brother Thrasher Siegfried Mark RttPoland, he began receiving his pension in Gibbs, 59, joined the man, 83, September 1989. passed away passed away union in May 20. April 8. Bom FERNANDO VARGAS 1969 in the port of San Francis­ Bom in in Atlanta, he Pensioner F^ando Vargas, 87, co. Brother Rachel last sailed as North originally a QMED aboard the Sea-Land passed away April 23. A Puerto Carolina, he was a mem­ Patriot. He began receiving his Rico native, he joined the union as joined the ber of the pension in April 1989. a charter member in 1939 in the Marine Cooks and Stewards, port of New York. Brother Vargas union in 1961 in the port of ALEXANDEI before that union merged with Philadelphia. Boatman Gibbs sailed in the engine department LAZORISAK the AGLIWD. He sailed as a sailed in the engine department. He retired in January 1967. He began receiving his pension cook/baker. Brother Pittman in November 1988. STEVE VENUS retired in October 1979. Pensioner Alexander Steve Venus, 43, died April 16. PHILIP SALOWSKY Lazorisak, Bom in New York, he graduated DEMETRIOS GRIVAS Pensioner Pensioner 77, passed from the Lundeberg School in Demetrios Philip away April 1969. Brother Venus upgraded Grivas, 86, Salowsky, 28. A Penn­ frequently at the Lundeberg died May 17. 75, died , sylvania na­ School. He sailed in the deck A native of March 27. A department. tive, he joined the Seafarers in Greece, he Masssachu1960 in the port of New York. setts native, STEPHEN WHITE joined the Brother Lazorisak upgraded at he joined the union in Stephen the Lundeberg School frequently, union in 1956 in the le served in the U.S. Army from White, 45, x)rt of New York. Boatman 969 in the port of Boston. 1941 to 1945. He retired in 1982. died January jrivas sailed in the engine deBrother Salowsky sailed as a 13. Bom in ELDRIDGE chief cook. He served in the U.S. jartment. He retired in May 1970. Tacoma, MONETTE Army from 1939 to 1948. He Wash., he DENNIS HOOPER )egan receiving his pension in Pensioner joined the 'ensioner Dennis Hooper, 72, Vlarch 1983. Eldridge union in passed away May 26. Bom in Monette, 77, 1989 in the JUANSANCHEZ Centucky, he joined the union in died May 25. )ort of San Francisco. Brother 972 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Pensioner He joined the Vhite sailed in the steward Joatman Hooper .sailed as a Juan Marine department. chief engineer on Allied Towing Sanchez, 77, Cooks and vessels. He was a veteran of the EMMORY WALLACE passed away Stewards in 1955 in his native 1 J.S. Navy, having served during April 4. Bom immory Wallace, 60, passed Louisiana, before that union iVorld War 11, the Rorean Con­ in Puerto merged with the AGLIWD. away May 12. A native of Geor­ flict and the Vietnam War. Boat­ Rico, he Jrother Monette began receiving gia, he joined the Seafarers in man Hooper began receiving his joined the 968 in the pdrt of Jacksonville, lis pepsion in Febmary 1979. pension in May 1986. •J • • •^7 -.•'I: "T • '-i - i • f • •>... f • r- ^ •• • �^••,;i^;Slu-;C::-j£5i-;^^^ .' - ; 2ff ^•*»v lV.>Vw JULYim SBAFAmRSLOe •is ^ i^ \ AM Trainee Lifeboat Class 511—Graduating from trainee lifeboat class 511 are (from left, kneeling) Robert Bush, Kenneth Stathos, Brian Surhigh, Terry Vicknair, Brian Rotchford, Dupress George, Daren Nash, (second row) Ray Gayton, Bradley Williams, Edgar Valley, Alfredo Arana Jr., Jason Connors, Jeremie Riehm, Martin Krins III, John Parker, Rodney Aucoin Jr. and Casey Taylor (instructor). sSSSSSSSS^SiSl^ Louie Payne, John H. Reber III, Dexter Moore, Mike Croxton, (second Albert Graul, Kevin Hill, Richard Feague, Foster Watts, Hugh Wheatley, (fourth row) Jeffrey Swain, row) Bubba Jarvis, Robert L. O'Neal, Thomas Horton, Berry Meekins, Richard Robinson and Edward Flynn. (third row) James Busby, Thomas R. Douglas Jr., Thomas B. Claussen, (fourth row) Richard B. Naigle and Richard Morris. Oil Spill Containment—Graduating from the oil spill containment course on May 27 are (from left, kneeling) Richard Butrim Sr., Gregory Carroll, Alton Hickman, Daniel Hoskins, Brandon Shannon, Joseph Perry, (second row) George Keblis, John Kissanis, Denial Butler, Kroeger lobst, Allan Rogers, Charles Donley, Gerard LaPorte, (third row) John Thompson, Gary Koshland, Keith Reiners, Brian Gelaude, Daniel Johnston, John Miller, (fourth row) Tom Zemianck, Jim Jones, Alfred Herrmann and Jeffrey Stuart. Radar—Renewing their radar endorsements on May 21 are (from left, kneeling) Caiiton Richardson, Mike Laham, Dennis Goodwin, (second row) Jim Brown (instructor). Warren Blankenship, Don Filoni, Walter Taulman and Aldo Bijazic.' Refrigeration Systems—Upgrading members of the engine department completing the refrigeration systems course are (from left, front row) Brantley Twiford, Steven Hoskins, Eric Morrison, Michael Hall, Mark Dumas, (second row) James Scanlon, Laurence Croes, Patrick Keenan, Paul Burkhard, Daniel Taggart Mark Glinka and Eric Malzkuhn (instructor). Upgraders Lifeboat—Upgrading graduates of the May 4 lifeboat class are (from left, kneeing) Atxlul Hasan, Casey Taylor (instructor), Richard Hollis, (second row) KhamisMageed,Comell Charleston, KathyShaner, Ronald Drew and Donald Dilley. r. r > Upgraders Lifeboat—Certificates of training were received by the May 13 class of upgraders. They are (from left, first row) Pamala Hagler, Maria Vera, Atxlo Ashaiiki, Aguilo Llorente, (second row) Jake Karaczynski (instructor), Glenn Baker Jr., William Powell and Daniel Tag^it �- - ,r-; mri993 SEAFMBISLOG LUNDEBERG SCHOOL 1993 UPGMOIHG COURSE SCHEOULE The following is the current course schedule for classes beginning between August and December 1993 at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seaman­ ship located at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. All programs are geared to improve job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. The course schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the m^time industry and—in times of conflict—the nation's security. Deck Upgrading Courses September 13 October 22 November 8 December 17 All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. Able Seaman Shiphandiiing August 23 September 27 November 8 September 3 October 8 November 19 Radar Observer - Unlindted August 16 September 20 November 1 August20 September 24 November 5 Completion Date Novembers Sleward Upgrading Courses Course Assistant Cook, Cook and Baker Check-In Completion Date Date All open-ended (contact admissions office for starting dates) Chief Cook, Chief Steward AU open-ended (contact admissions office for starting dates) EnghteUpgrading Courses Completion Check-In Date Date Course September 27 November 5 FiremanAVatertender and Oiler All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. September 24 August 16 Pumproom Maint & Operations December 17 November 8 September 24 August 30 Basic Electronics September 13 October 22 hiarine ElectricalMalnt^nance^n Refirig;eration Maiht & Opera^ns September 13 October 22 , i. < November 22 December 17 Marine Electronics Technician I September 27 November 5 Third Mate , August 30 December10 Marine Electronics Technician H November 8 December 17 Hydraulics August 2 September 13 August 27 Octobers Diesel Engine Technology August 9 November 22 September 3 December 17 Welding October 25 November 19 Crane Maintenance Novembers December 17 Course Check-In Date Completion Date Oil Spill Prevention and Containment I August 2 November 8 August 6 November 12 Lifeboatman August 16 September 13 October 11 November 8 December 6 August 27 September 24 October 22 November 19 December 17 Basic/Advanced Fire Fighting September 7 November 2 September 17 November 12 Sealift Operadons & IVfointenanee August 30 October 25 September 24 November 19 UPGRAOHIGAPPLKAmM ' Name. (Last) Address. (Qty) wn/- Check-In Date October 4 Course Bosun Recertification Celestial Navigation Safety Spedaltg Course f;s''J--vj;.-- RecertUlcaUon Programs Completion Date Check'In Date Ciwurse Date of Birth _ (Finrt) (Street) (Stale) Deep Sea Member CH Month/Day/Year (Middle) .Telephone _L Lakes Member Q ) (Area Code) (Zip Code) Inland Waters Member O Date available for training Primary language spoken ; • ^ i, 1992Education Schedule The following courses are available through the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School. Please contact the admissions office for enrollment information. Check-In Completion Date Date Course High School Equivalency (GED) All open-ended Adult Basic Education (ABE) (contact admissions office for starting English as a Second Language (ESL) dates) College Program Schedule fdr 1993 FULL 8-week sessions July 19 September 10 With this application COPIES of yourdischarges must be submitted showing sufficient time to qualify yourself for the cours(e(s) requested. You also must submit a COPY of each of the following: the first page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, your clinic card and the front and back of your Lundeberg School identification card listing the course(s)you have taken and completed The Admissions Office WILL NOT schedule you until all of the above are received RATING DATE DATE OF VESSEL HELD SHIPPED DISCHARGE " vV^. I am interested in the following course(s) checked below or indicated here if not listed GNO GNO •No • • • • • • D D DECK AB/SealiA 1st Class Pilot Third Mate Radar Observer Unlimited Master Inspected Towing Vessel Towboat Operator Inland CU^lestial Navigation Simulator Course ENGINE GNO —^—— ^ —— ^—_ -a-' . • T llif •| -S' DATE SIGNATURE. G FOWT G QMED—Any Rating G Variable Speed DC Drive biectronics) Systems (Marine Electronics) G Marine Electrical Maintenance G Pumproom Maintenance & Operation G Refrigeration Systems Maintenance & Operation G Diesel Engine Technology G Assistant Enginecr/CTiief Engineer Motor Vessel G Original 3rd Engineer Steam or Motor G Refrigerated Containers Advanced Maintenance G Electro-Hydraulic Systents G Automation G Hydraulics G Marine Electronics Technician G G G G G STEWARD Assistant C^ook Utility Cook and Baker ChiefCook (Tiief Steward Towboat Inland Cook G G G G ' G G G G G • ;i ' ALL DEPARTMENTS Welding Lifeboatman (must be taken with another course) Oil Spill Prevention & Containment Basic/Advanced Fire Fighting ADULT EDUCATION DEPARTMENT Adult Basic Education (ABE) High School Equivalency Program (GED) Developmental Studies (DVS) English as a Second Language (ESL) ABE/ESL Lifeboat Preparation COLLEGE PROGRAM G Associate in Arts Degree Transportation will be paid In accordance with the scfaeduilns letter only If yon present original receipts and sncccssftdly plete the conrse. If yon have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Ptaiey PolnL RETURN COMPLETED APPUCATTON TO: lamdeberg Upending Center, P.O. Box 75, Plney Point, MD 2IM74. ^ 7/93 •r •;y' Pacific D If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security # Book # Seniority Department • U S. Citizen: DVes • No Home Port. Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held • Yes Are you a graduate of the SHLSS trainee program? If yes, which program: from : to. Last grade of school completed • Yes Have you attended any SHLSS upgrading courses? If yes, course(s) taken. Have you taken any SHLSS Sealift Operations courses? •Yes If yes, how many weeks have you completed?___ Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? • Yes GNO Firefighting: G Yes GNO CPR:GYes 27 .- >• �SEAEUCEItS July 1993 Volume 55, Number 7 SEAFARERS: Have you upgraded your skills this year? Page 27 car­ ries a list of courses offered by the Lundeberg School through December. Before the year has come and gone, why not upgrade your skills and enjoy the benefits of higher pay next year when you sail in a higher rating? TOTE'S Northern Lights Begins New Life as a Centaineiship "i^r--. The SlU-crewed Northern Lights hcgwi its new life June 3 following a ribbon-cutting ceremony in Tacoma, Wash. Seafarers shipping on the retrofitted vessel, as it made its trek from an Alabama shipyard to Washington state where TOTE is headquartered, expressed their satisfaction with the ship and their fellow crewmembers. The Totem Ocean Trailer Ex­ press (TOTE) vessel will sail on a regular container run between the northwest Washington port and Anchorage, Alaska. The rollon/roll-off ship had been part of the Ready Reserve Force before TOTE had the vessel refurbished and ex­ panded in a Mobile, Ala. shipyard. While in the shipyard, the Northern Lights underwent a complete overhaul. Originally built in 1974, the vessel was cut apart and a section was added to lengthen the ship to 744 feet long and 92 feet wide. The gross Formerly a Ready Reserve Force vessel, the Northem Lights was purchased by TOTE, refurbished and expanded and now will sail on a tonage was increased from regular container run between Tacoma, Wash, and Anchorage, Alaska. It Is operated by SlU-contracted InterOcean Management. 14,770 to 17,527. Seafarers told Mobile Port Agent Dave Carter they were looking forward to sailing the Northern Lights from the yard to its new home on the West Coast. Bosun Ray Waiters backed up those words when he told Carter, 'It's great to be aboard this ship and take her to Washington for her first voyage to Alaska. It should be cooler than the heat and humidity here in Mobile." Captain Michael J. Kucharski told Carter when he was servicing the vessel, "SIU crews are the best I've ever worked with and I am excited about this new crew." Steward/Baker Kenneth Whitfield also had praise for his Crewmembers gather In the galley between shifts. Pictured (left to galley gang before the ship set right) are QMED Demyron Walker, Chief EngineerKeith Jordan, DEU sail from Mobile on May 15. ^ During the dedication Galley gang members take a break after preparing lunch to pose for a photo. They are (front row) Steward/Baker Kenneth Whitfield, SA ceremonies in Tacoma, SIU President Michael Sacco told the Pat Carter, (standing) SA Chris Green and Chief Cook Gnoc Allen. local dignitaries, company repre­ sentatives and union ofEcials in attendance the Seafarers were proud to work with TOTE to get the vessel back into service. "We in theSIU know TOTE as the kind of company where the union and management can work together to get the job done," Sacco noted. "From die point of view of the big picture. Totem Ocean Trailer Express is doing exactly what must be done to build the American merchant marine, and that is to acquire new tonnage—more ships—and to operate these vessels under the Heading out on deck to begin the Enjoying fresh baked apple pie Is DEUs Gabriel Williams (left) and ABs Jeff Saxon (left) and Jeff Cedl Edwards attend union meeting. Englehart wait for lunch. next shift Is Bosun Ray Waiters. SA Jerry Watklns. good old Stars and Stripes." Help Locate This Missing Child The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children has asked the Seafarers Interna­ tional Union to assist them in locating April Joy Briney. Missing since August 26, 1992, when she was 16 years old, April Joy Briney left Monticello. Ark. with an adult male and is considered an en­ dangered runaway. At the time of her disappearance the blonde-haired, April Joy Briney 'A , , • blue-eyed girl was 5 feet 10 in­ ches tall and weighed 160 pounds. (She may since have dyed her hair black.) Anyone having information on the disappearance of April Joy Briney should contact the Na­ tional Center for Missing and Exploited Children at (800) 843-5678 or the Missing Persons SIU President Michael Sacco (left) joins other union, company and city Unit of the Drew County (Ark.) officials at the NorthemUgfitd dedication ceremony In Tacoma, Wash, on Sheriff's Office at (501) 367- June 3. AMD Vice President Robert McKay Is third from left, while TOTE 6211. CEO Robert McMillan holds tfie ribbon on tfie rigfrt. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 1990-1999 Description An account of the resource Volumes LII-LXI Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993; Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource July 1993 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES 1990-1993 STANDARD PACT EXTENDED FOR 62 DAYS TRAINEES RESCUE STRANDED SWIMMERS HOUSE BACKS SCAB-BAN BILL; SENATE NEXT 10 SIU CO.’S BID TO RUN 68 RRF SHIPS AVONDALE GOES UNION IN 1,804 VOTE SEA-LAND, APL SEEKS OK TO REFLAG 20 U.S. SHIPS GIANT GRAIN INTERESTS STEP UP ATTACKS ON CARGO PREFERENCE BILL ADVANCED BY PANEL PROHIBITS FOREIGN SHIPS IN 1-DAY CRUISE MARKET HOUSE PANEL EXPOSES GREED OF INT’L COMMODITY TRADERS RUNAWAY REGISTRIES SERVE AS CONDUITS FOR ALIEN SMUGGLING GOLDEN VENTURE’S GROUNDING SPOTLIGHTS RUNAWAYS’ ROLE RECENT CASES OF RUNAWAY SHIPS USE IN HUMAN SMUGGLING OPERATIONS CREW PROUD OF SLEEK NEW 220-FOOT ALTON BELLE II QUEEN MARY REOPENS WITH FANFARE BTU TAX DEFEATED IN THE SENATE AS CONGRESS WORKS ON BUDGET JOBS FOR DRUGS-ANOTHER MAJOR FLAW IN NAFTA IUOE PRESIDENT HANLEY DECLARES PROPOSED BILL CATERS TO GREED FLOODING HAMPERS NAVIGATION ON MISSISSIPPI RIVER CROWLEY TUG SAMSON PLIES DELAWARE RIVER GULF AND ATLANTIC HARBOR BOATMENT RATIFY NEW CONTRACTS WITH CRESCENT, MCALLISTER SEAFARERS WHO ARE ALSO FISHERMAN SHOULD CONTACT SIU HEADQUARTERS TRANSCOM’S CHIEF INSPECTS UNION’S PAUL HALL CENTER UIW ASST. VP HUBER SUCCUMBS TO CANCER TUG OGLETHORPE’S FAST ACTION SAVES ALL HANDS AND WINGS G&H BOATMEN AIM FOR OPERATORS’ LICENSES IMC TANKER PROVIDES WIPER VOGT WITH CHANCE TO SEE THE WORLD OSAKA-A REST STOP FOR ARIES CREW NE PORT CALLS ARE TIME TO TALK UNION CHILDREN BEFRIEND CHIEF COOK DYER AS MV PATRIOT UNLOADS IN ODESSA SEAFARERS PULL TOGETHER TO BRING THAYER OUT FOR A NEW SAILING SEASON NON-STOP ACTION KEEPS CROWLEY MEMBERS BUSY IN SAN JUAN SUGAR ISLANDER CREW DELIVERS SUPPLIES AND FRIENDSHIP TO LITHUANIAN CHILDREN AVONDALE YARD WORKERS VOTE FOR REPRESENTATION BY UNIONS TOTE’S NORTHERN LIGHTS BEGINS NEW LIFE AS A CONTAINERSHIP Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 07/01/1993 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 55, No. 7 1993 Periodicals Seafarers Log