https://seafarerslog.org/archives_old/files/original/423722a682693838469c8602ec4430a3.PDF 81f4f48f68d713a1e0bf64da014c2775 PDF Text Text •• •*-. •: £?-^rr;;,'.'.. I X T '' Official Organ of the Seafarers International Union of North America VOL. X NEW YORK. N. Y„ FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 27. 1948 No. 9 J Four Resolutions Go To Referendum Vete Voting For Strength From March 10 through April 10 the membership of this Union will have the opportunity to chart, the course for the future. What is decided during that short period may well turn out to be the difference between a growing vibrant organization and a stodgy discouraged Union. One recommendation is for a $10.00 strike assess­ ment, to be known as the 1948 $10.00 Strike Assessment. There can be no argument against the fact that the shipowners, encouraged by the government and the TaftHartley law. Will try their damnedest to break the SIU when the present contracts run out. ' They know as well as we do that the foundation of the Seafarers, and of other maritime unions, is built on the Hiring Hall and the democratic Rotary Shipping sys­ tem. That's why they will imdoubtedly go all out to scuttle the Hiring Hall so that they can in that way eventually break up the Union. In the past seamen paid with their lives to establish a shipping system free from operator control. Now, with that system under attack, it is certainly worth a double sawbuck to defend the right to sail the ships without hav­ ing to beg for jobs, without having to kiss the hands of a bunch of men who would like to cut wages and set conditions "back to the days before the SIU. Honest weakness, however, is ,no match for dishonest strength. That's why the Strike Assessment is so neces­ sary. The shipowners have millions of dollars set aside for a strike. The Seafarers also has money earmarked for strike action,! but it's only a drop in the bucket compared with the bosses' bankroll. Ten bucks from every man in the SIU will give us the strength to be able to look the shipowner in the eye (Continued on Poge 2) , A&G Membership Will Ballot On Bigger Strike Fund And New Halls NEW YORK—In a move designed to strengthen the Union in prepara­ tion for any possible future trouble, coastwise meetings of the Atlantic and Gulf District on Wednesday voted unanimously to place four recommendations from the Agents Conference on a Referendum Ballot. Voting is scheduled to start on March 10, and will continue through April 10. All of the reports drawn up by the various committees during the Conference were approved by the membership at the s^e m^tings. Because of the pressing problems posed by the anti-closed shop section of the Taft-Hartley law, the most im­ portant one of the four pro * "An SIU Ship Is A Clean posals calls for a strike assess­ ment to immediately build up a Ship," declared one speaker, strike fund huge enough to make "and the only way to keep it the shipowners think twice be­ that way is for the Wipers and From now all now crewOrdinaries to do their part of members shipping to ships fore attempting to wreck the the job." SIU. in eastern Canada on SIUBallots for the Referendum The four propositions are: contracted vessels must be 1. A $10.00 strike assessment have already been prepared and cleared and shipped through to be known as the 1948 $10.00 will soon be mailed to all Branches. A copy of the ballot Strike Assessment. the Boston Hall. • appears on page 16. . 2. Another $10.00 assessment There will be no deviation for the building fimd, t© be ( \ from this ruling which goes known as the 1948 Building As­ This issue of the LOG in­ into -effect at once. Under sessment. cludes a special supplement no circumstances should a 3. A change in the Shipping containing the reports to the crew allow a man to come Rules to prohibit shipboard pro­ Conference and the full Con­ aboard in an eastern Cana­ motions and transfers except in ference recommendations. The dian port unless the Boston cases of extreme emergency. supplement begins on Page 3. Hall has cleared him. Violators to be fined not less V than $25.00 for each such offense. This ruling is in accord The Agents, before ending 4. Adoption of a new clause in with the Headquarters' Re-' their meeting - on February 20, the Shipping Rules making it an port of February 11. which made a request that as many offense punishable by a fine of was concurred in by the members of the Union as possible not less than $10.00 for Wipers membership and reaffirmed vote in the Referendum. They and Ordinary Seamen to refuse by the Agents Conference. to put in the two hours allotted pointed out that the balloting to cleaning the crews' quarters. would be a democratic expres­ sion of the will of the member­ CLEAR REASONING ship. The reasons for the resolutions All the proposals on the ballot were made clear in the discus­ were first suggested by members, sions which preceded the voting. and adoption of the four resolu­ Many speakers took the deck to tions would strengthen the al­ The Seafarers organizing drive additional jobs for SIU men. j tanker fleet operating out of east press for the strike assessment ready staunch militancy of the rolled on this week with the The John M. Carras Company, coast ports. on the ground that the biggest Union. Progress by the organizing de- threat to the SIU this year is signing of another tanker com­ an SlU-contracted tanker operpany. Latest addition, to the ator, now has two" more vessels partment is also continuing on the Taft-Hartley law, and that being fitted put in shipyards. other fronts, details of which a big strike fund would be a growing list is the Strathmore Upon completion of repairs, the will be announced as soon as powerful weapon in the hands of Steamship Company, which ac­ two ships will join the Carras practicable. the Union. cepted the Union's standard east On the question of the Build­ coast tanker agreement, it was I- 11 ing Assessment, there was a announced by Lindsey, Williams, great deal of feeling shown by. the membership. It was pointed Director of Organization." out that paying rent for Branch Still staggering under the im­ Agreement between the Union Halls is uneconomical, and that pact of the SIU's overwhelming and the company was reached on buying buildings in the six ports collective bargaining election vic­ February 18. Strathmore will Just before'the LOG went to in a fight in the course of which where the Union is forced to rent tory, the Cities Service Oil Com­ operate Liberty-type tankers press,'word came from George­ he went overboard. Fellow ci:ew- space would be a good invest­ pany was resorting to legal tricks this week. town, British Guiana, that Robert men of Youtzy and Boutwel, ment for the future. from east coast ports. The company has filed a peti­ Boutwell had been acquitted of who testified at the trial, main­ The two proposed changes in Acquisition of the Strathmore manslaughter and that Ralph tained that they saw the captain the Shipping Rules were thor­ tion with the National Labor Re­ ,tankers made it two in a row for Youtzy got a divided jury. swimming in the water after he oughly discussed, with an over­ lations Board protesting the elec­ the SIU. A contract was signed Youtzy is awaiting a new trial fell. whelming majority of the speak­ tion results, which gave the SIU last week with yet another new which will be held in April. fhe charges were widely re­ er declaring themselves in favor 83 per cent of the total votes tanker company—which is now The two Seafarers were oh garded as a bum rap by SIU of putting a stop to shipboard cast. arranging for the purchase of trial on manslaughter charges A hearing by the NLRB is ex­ members and a series of dona­ promotions and making it man­ seven T-2s and may acquire even growing out of the accidental pected next week. The SIU is datory that Wipers and Ordinary tions for the defense totaled Ifc/ more. death of a Georgetown launch about $700. Youtzy and Bout­ Seamen live up to that section of confident that the outcome will Williams announced another captain last October. well were members of the crew the contract which calls for be favoi-able and thus pave the development "'of significance in The British Colonial authori­ of the T. J. Jackson, en Alcoa- cleaning the crews' quarters in way for the Union shop election requix-ed by the Taft-Hartley law; the tanker field which will mean ties claimed , that the; man died ship, od the bauxite run. . time allotted for the job, Notice To Crews Seafarers Tanker Drive Reiis On Boutwell Aequitted By Jury; Youtzy Awaiting New Trial Gths Service Tries To Stall tertl^tloa /• �Page Two THE SEA F A RE RS LOG Friday* Fdbniary 27, 1948 SEAFARERS LOG Published Weekly by the SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA Atlantic and Gulf District iliis • PS • Aifiliated with the American Federation of Labor At 51 Beaver Street, New York 4, N. Y. HAnover 2-2784 PAUL HALL ------ Secretary-Treasttrer Editorial Board J. p. SHULER PAUL HALL JOE ALGINA Entered as second class matter June 15, 1945, at the Post Office in New York, N.Y., under the Act of August 24, 1912. George K. Novick. Editor 267 Voting For Strength 1^•j;- 'f. I:: (Continued from Page 1) and tell him that we are ready and willing to fight for our hard-won rights; ready, willing and ABLE to hit the bricks to defend the Hiring Hall and Rotary Shipping. No less important on the Ballot is the proposal for another $10.00 assessment, this one for the purpose of buying our own Halls in the six ports where the Union rents building. Branches in New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Savannah, Galveston and San Juan are housed in quarters for which the Union pays many thousands of dpllars rent each year. That's silly, and should be brought to an end. This Union, with its steady growth, rates its own buildings. In the long run, it will prove to be much more economi­ cal than continuing to pay rent for many years, and then having nothing at all to show for the outlay of money. The membership has repeatedly stated its desire for modern up-to-date buildings, with good accomodations for the men on the beach. There's no reason why Halls, with recreation rooms, libraries, and comfortable places to relax shouldn't be available to every Seafarer. One of the big beefs of the membership, during the past year, has been the question of shipboard promo­ tions. There are some men who like to trade on favoritism instead of on merit, and those men have taken jobs which rightly should have been posted on the dispatching board so that the men rated for the jobs could have first crack at them. The principle of Rotary Shipping is thereby b^ing violated, and the membership has stated, in no uncertain terms, that shipboard promotions must stop. Fining offen­ ders is the only way to stop this anti-union practice! And last, but by no means least, is the proposal to fine Wipers and Ordinary Seamen who refuse to do that part of their job which consists of cleaning the crew's quarters. An SIU ship is a clean ship, and it's clean be­ cause the Union has fought for these conditions and they are embodied in our contracts. Everytime some irresponsible guy fouls up the works, it makes it just., so much harder for the Union negotiators to hold the gains already made and win new ones. American seamen enjoy the best quarters of any merchant seamen. But this will come to an abrupt end if we do not live up to the provisions of the contract. A man who does not put .hi the time allotted for clean­ ing crew's quarters deserves to be fined, for he is a menace to that crew and to the Union. All of these proposals are for the betterment of the Union. They are resolutions for the future, and are an indication of the strength of this organization. .< There can be no question as to the merit of the reso.T lutions contained on the Referendum Ballot. The mem­ bership has requested them, and will now have the chance to back up their, words with their actions. A "YES" vote on each proposition is the only apswer to the shipowners, the governmental bureaucrats, and to the guys who ride the Union gravy train for what they can get out of it. A "YES" vote on each of the four proposals is a vote of confidence in the future of the Seafarers Inter­ national Union! Hospital Patients When entering the hospital notify the delegates by post­ card, giving your name and the number of your ward. Staten Island Hospital Men Now h The Mmm Nespitds These are the Union Brothers currently in the marine hospitals, as reported by the Port Agents. These Brothers find time hanging heavily on their hands. Do what you can to cheer them up by writing to them. GALVESTON HOSPITAL W. CANAVAN ROY E. WILSON D. N. De PLANK Q. JOHNSON F. KOPF OSWALD J. F. MARTIN C. R. HANSON O. M. STIREWALT CLIFF MOUNCE % % X NEW ORLEANS HOSPITAL A. R. CHISHOLM A. C. KIMBERLY W. WILCOXON R. E. STRIPPY ROBERT JOHNSON S. LeBLANC JAMES GORDAN , T. M. LYNCH PAUL KRONBERGS G. ROCZAN R. SMITH P. PETAK JOHN E. KENNAIR P. R. CALLAHAN L. CLARKE C. McHILBERRY R. LUNDQUIST' GEORGE BRADY J. GONIGLIA ,, L. A. HOLMES •• A. AMUNDSON J. CARROLL J. MAOUIRE A. M. XIPABI A. A. SAMPSOi^ A. M. LUPER E. FITZER D. PARKER J. J. O'NEAL A. L. MALONE C. MASON J. DENNIS i. X X* BALTIMORE HOSPITAL L. J. SWAN R. CASEY You can contact your Hos­ pital delegate at the Staten Island Hospital at the follow­ ing times: Tuesday — 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on Sih and 6th floors.) Thursday — 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 3rd and 4th floors.) Saturday — 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 1st and 2nd floors.) -E. LACHOFF G. FRESHWATER J. MASONGSONG D. HERON , C. GREEN P. TAURASI M. ROSENBERG A. JENSBY XXX BRIGHTON HOSPITAL W. J. FEENEY J. F. LAND W. CAREY L. J. STEPHERSON JOE MCDONOUGH E. J. CARAVANA JOHN SCULLY J.-P. THRASHER A. FAZERKELY E. FREMSTAD P. CASSALINOUVA M. B. VIKE N. JOEL LEE F. A. CARROLL / JOE THOMAS XXX ROBERT LORD STATEN ISLAND HOSPITAL E. J. DELLAMANO - , , , F. J. SCHUTZ XXX J. H. HOAR FT. STANTON MARINE KOSP. - J. SLAMAN R. B. WRIGHT , P. FRANKMANIS ARCH McGUIGAN M. CASTRO R. S. LUFLIN S. HEIDUCKI JULIUS SUPINSKY J. McNEELY FRANK CHAMBERLAYNE T. McNICHOLAS J. LIGHTFOOT J. PRATS - - m m �THE S E^W A K E K S Priday. February 27. 1948 Page Three LO G mMi iii *' - - M mm ' "y^,; WAku '•. 1» vr-' awd> L fc liii ISsSSwii r/;,; 1^1?^ l-sn. m. JJUV > •', P?l.v, Eh; winrtAt OHlOW ll'hf; 1 seA»w®"*jSw 1^;- > • • . A'.: • V,. -li'ii Si• :;i:lnv'vi&^';;; :• :5?!h4h M H.A • * ^^ �THE si A FA RE R S LOG \. Friday, February 27, 1948 wmmemEs: T Headquarters Report Finances The records will show the financial condition of the Prr. ganization has improved since this time last year. While we are operating within the general income, it doesn't mean that we Funds General Fund Strike Funds . Building Fund Hospital Fund Totals ... have by any means retrenched financially to a satisfactory point of minimum cost of operation. The following is the present Headquarters conditions com­ pared with a year ago. Balance Beginning 1947 Increase $ 91,522.06 , .$ 35.078.17 237,454.83 , . 434,879.13 . 201,814.91 ~ . 109,430.06 ..$781,202.29 $244,332.16 Decrease $64,855.07 19,789.66 Balance Feb. 14,1948 $126,600.23 672,333.98 136,959.84 89,640.40 $1,025,534.45 (Note: These figures do not include physical properties of the Union. Value of real estate owned by the Union appears on Page Five, under the heading of "Buildings and Halls.) t-' AiXirrff doiffBKm far from what we want for the seamen, but it does represent a step forward. The federal agency handling this jobless insurance offered us a plan years ago, but with strings attached which would have affected our rotary Hiring Hall system. We have consistently turned down these overtures and demanded unem­ ployment insurance for merchant seamen free and clear of any governmental tie-ins. During the past year we were^^ successful in having some min­ imum demands met, but we shall continue pressing for a more adequate unemployment insur­ ance program for the seamen. Legislation Under Consideration Several bills affecting seamen tiave been introduced in Con­ gress in the past few months, although there are no signs of immediate action on any of them. We are naturally inter­ ested in the enactment of all of them, and will continue to direct our efforts to that end. Among the bills in the legisative "hopper" are: 1. The "Seamen's G,I, Bill of Rights" (H. R. 476). This bill her of off-shore tanker and point of production by the union would provide medical aid for freight ship companies under whenever necessary to stop the seamen needing it as a result contract to this District of the operators from chiseling on the of injuries suffered during war­ time service on U. S, ships and SIU is-at an all-time high. contracts should be continued. The number of contract viola­ This application of use of aid for the families of seamen tions on the part of the opera­ economic action should, of who are under medical care, as tors is not as great as it has course, be used sensibly; not in well as the dependents of the Contracts and Negotiations been, although a few of the oper­ a screwball manner, arid only in seamen lost due to hazards of • The contractual conditions of panies contracted to the Union ators still attempt to chisel our matters which cannot be set,tled war. members as much as possible. the Organization in the off-shore is as follows: in a legitimate collective bargain­ 2. The Celler Bill (H. R. 4156) field as applies to various comIt is felt that the continued ing manner. if enacted would grant citizen­ use of economic action at -the ship to those alien seamen with Effective Date Expiration Date Company wartime service aboard AmerGovernment Agencies and Legislation . Alcoa Steamship Co 7/31/47 7/31/48 can ships. We ai-e particularly American Eastern Corp 8/19/47 8/19/48 As in former years, very little tween one and two per cent of anxious for passage of this bill. American Liberty Steamship Corp 7/31/47 7/31/48 can be expected this year in the These men who were in there the total cost of the program. Atwacoal Transportation Co., Inc 8/21/47 ' 8/21/48 Way of legislation to benefit the with us when the going was If that provision is not blasted tough, and who have worked Arnold Bernstein Steamship Corp 7/31/47 7/31/48 merchant seamen. One impor­ Arnold Bernstein Shipping Co., Inc 7/31/477/31/48 tant piece of legislation, however, out of the^^plan, 25,000 American alongside of us on the picketthemselves lines, are worthy of our sup­ A. H. Bull Steamship Co 'jy31/47 7/31/48 will probably be enacted in on§ seamen will find Baltimore Insular Lines, Inc 7/31/47 7/31/48 form or another—^the European beached, while American-built port. We favor and • will fight John M. Carras, Inc 11/11/47 11/11/48 Recovery Program, better known for any measure that will give I; Coral Steamship Corp 8/11/47 8/11/48 as the Marshall Plan. them citizenship. Eastern Steamship Lines, Inc 7/31/47 7/31/48 3. The Bradley (Calif.) Bill The Marshall Plan is of vital Illinois-Atlantic Corp 7/31/47 7/31/48 (H. R. 4834)—This biU would Isthmian Steamship Co 8/21/47 8/21/48 concern to every man in the provide disability payments to . Kearney Steamship Co., Inc. ' 7/31/47 7/31/48 maritime industry, for, if it is seamen disabled as the result of Mississippi Shipping Co., Inc 7/31/47 7/31/48 enacted as it now stands, it will wartime service aboard U, S. ' deliver a staggering blow to the IV^oran Towing and Transportation Co 4/30/47 ships, and death benefits to the Newtex Steamship Co 7/31/47 ^ 7/31/48 entire American merchant ma­ families of those who were "Overlakes Freight Corp 7/31/47 " 7/31/48 rine. killed in the course of wartime P & O Steamship Co 7/31/47 7/31/48 sailing. Although we have gone on Ponce Cement Corp 7/31/47 7/31/48 record as being in favor of the 4. Hospitalization — Several Pratt Steamship Co 9/29/47 9/29/48 general principles of the Plan, bills have been presented. One .Seas Shipping Co 7/31/47 7/31/48 we are vigorously opposed to has been introduced which Seatrade Corp .*. 11/13/47 11/13/48 'that provision of the bill which would provide care and treat­ Seatrain Lines 7/31/47 7/31/48 the State Department has recom­ ships manned by foreign crews ment of seanjen at Marine Hos­ I I Smith and Johnson 7/31/47 7/31/48 mended, and which calls for the pitals regardless of their length South Atlantic Steamship Co .• 7/31/47 7/31/48 transfer sale, and "loan" of 500 shuttle back and forth with the of stay on the beach, providing ' St. Lawrence Navigation Co., Inc 7/31/47 7/31/48 ships to the beneficiary countries supplies, it has not been inteiTupted by Petrol Tanker Industries, Inc 9/23/47 9/23/48 so that they can transport the We have already announced shoreside employment. The Tanker Sag Harbor Corp. 7/21/47 7/21/48 huge supplies by themselves. our opposition to this vicious sec­ present 60-day ruling, or the, Waterman-Steamship Co,' :. 7/31/47 " 7/31/48 The State Department says it tion of the Plan. The Union was 90-day ruling as some hospitals •#i - 'V- r We are at present in-negotiaattached this provision^ to the represented at the Senate Hear- allow, is definitely unfair and y-'/t L A. H. Bull Steamship Co. ' tions with Calmar and Ore Lines Baltimore Insular Line, Inc. bill as an economy measure. The ng in Washington, We intend we must continue our fight for for a full new contract. Eastern Steamship Lines, Inc. only way they could whittle off to fight with every means at our a more liberal ruling. In surveying legislation .of in­ anything from the billions they P O Steamship Co, We are at present in negotia­ Seas Shipping Co, are asking for is to knock off the disposal until the ship transfer terest to us as seamen, we tions with the following com­ Seatrain Lihes. cost of shipping in American bot­ section of the proposed bill is re­ must not forget the Taft-Hart­ panies for wage increases: Smith and Johnson, toms, which would amount to be­ moved. ley Law, We, as well' as the Alcoa Steamship Company, entire labor movement, are South Atlantic Steamship Co, American Liberty Steamship Unemployment Insurance fully aware of the dangers in­ Notices have been sent the Corp, herent in this vicious UnionArnold Bernstein Steamship other operators and, as soon as There was one notable aavance jobless pay benefits to merchant busting law. possible, we will be meeting with in the past year—^the broadening seamen, which we have been Corp. This threat to the trade union of the Federal Unemployment fighting for' constantly. . Arnold Bernstein Shipping Co., them on the wage increases. Our position is that this is still (Continued oh Next Page) It is to be noted that the num- Irisurance Program to extend Inc. It is recommended to this Agents Conference that, in any recommendations and program made in the matter of finances of this Union, the errors we made in the past year should be taken into consideration. These errors can be attributed mainly to the fact that in various instances which are in the record, some of the officials and former offi­ cials have not cooperated 100% on the matter of expenditures. It is to be further pointed out to this Conference that some spe­ cific recommendation should be made to guarantee the curtail­ ment of any particular expendi­ tures which are not in accord with the Union's Economizing Program. The record has shown that un­ usual amounts of per diem have been run up by various ports, as pointed out in various Head­ quarters financial reports from time to time. This was done in spite of the fact that those re­ sponsible officials have been told not to "spend such money without proper authorization. It is recommended to this Conference that any program it may draft up should be clear, brief and to the point. l' �Friday^ February 27« 1948(Conlinued from Preceding Page) movement must be removed, and we will do. every thing pos­ sible in labor's fight, consistent with Union policy, to effect the repeal or amendment of the labor enslaving law. Matthew Dushane, SIU Legis­ lative Representative in Wash­ ington, shall continue keeping the Union informed at all times on the matter of seamen's legis­ lation. Maritime Commission T H B S^M^TBTRE R S LOG Headquarters Report complaint has been filed. Then they subpoena witnesses, the de­ fendant and plaintiff, and con­ duct the investigation by taking testimony under oath. The defendant- has t^ie right of cross-examination, either by him­ self or by anyone whom he designates as his representative, and the testimony becomes part of the trial,'if one is ever held. This procedure appears to be similar to the taking of deposi­ tions in civil actions. The Coast Guard has intro­ duced a bill in Congress which would give them the authority to try their own cases. We have been informed that they are not too optimistic about getting it passed, as there are about 4G other government agencies trying to set up disciplinary machinery over their Civil Service workers. When public hearings are opened on this bill, we will be present to oppose any effort to again put our members in a strait jacket. Our policy toward the Coast Guard remains unchanged. All members are advised that their seamen's papers are their own property, and cannot be taken, from them without having had a hearing, ^hose who have volun­ tarily surrendered their papers have learned that they do not get them back so easily. It should be noted, however, that when a subpoena is issued for a man to appear for question^ ing, if the man refuses to testi­ mony or fails to show up, the Coast Guard may turn the mat­ ter over to ^ Federal District At­ torney. So far, we have never heard, of any of these cases being this Union, which was instigated by the $10 Building Assessment, is progressing and it has been proven from the membership's action that having suitable quar­ ters for our Union membership is a benefit to the Union as a whole. It is recommended to this Agents Conference that, in draft­ ing recommendations on the mat­ ter of the Building Program, special care should be taken that each Port Agent is charged with the responsibility of seeing that the Union Hall of his Branch is kept up to par in cleanliness and efficiency at all times. It is further recommended that some ways and means for more suitable quarters be arranged in those ports needing same. Operation of Union Appartus change any of these two points,: these recommendations be pre-? sented to the membership asi soon as possible in a ballot form. Membership Admission A previously enacted provi­ sion by the membership of this Union to stop admission of new members, other than through the organizing offices of the Union, has proven highly successful. The| number of members in good! standing, at this date, follows: | Books 11,003 I Permits 8,637 Trip Cards 429 The Maritime Commission's The handling of the Union's in- ters Offices that occasionally complete disregard of the status 20,069 ,f ter-office correspondence and some minutes do not arrive in Total of American shipping, and of business operations, even though other Branches in time for meet­ Thus we see that, although 'i the welfare of those who man the Headquarters Staff has been ings. This situation should be numerous men from the Organ-1 our ocean-going fieets, was izing field have been allowed in; reduced considerably the past remedied. more clearly demonstrated than 6 months, is operating fairly It is understood, of course, this Union, we are far from|ever in 1947. It continued its efficient. The files of the Union that from time to time Head­ having a top-heavy Union. It is| ruthless policy of scuttling now are in . such a. shape as to quarters, in an attempt to work called to the attention of this Ir American ships and seamen by guarantee a quicker response to towards greater efficiency, has Agents Conference that, even I giving or transferring our ves­ the outport Branches requiring requested Port Agents to assist though the number of jobs we I , sels to foreign-flag operators, information. in changing various routine mat­ hold under contract far exceeds |among which were a large pro­ Headquarters Offices recom­ ters, such as handling Social our book members, shipping in| portion operating under Pana­ mends to this Agents Confer­ Register, etc. Announcement of some areas is not too good. This| manian registry. ence that a plan be drafted in any proposed changes in the is attributed, in the opinion of i In violation of the Merchant such a manner so as to expedite business structure of the Union Headquarters Office, to the fact? Marine Act of 1936, which quicker delivery of the minutes shall be announced to the var­ that a large number of our con- ; called for the maintenance of a exchanged between the various ious Officials and membership tracted jobs are now being held; strong merchant marine, the ports. Several complaints have and recommendations for this by the membership of the SUP; _ and the Great Lakes District. It! Commission has been continu­ been received at the Headquar- will be put up for action. is recommended to this Confer-1ally whittling down the number Strikes ence that, in setting up any? of American vessels and build­ The good judgment of the last even tighter structure should be recommendation on this matter,: ing up foreign fleets at the ex­ pense of the domestic industry. Agents Conference in tightening made regarding possible future they consider all these issues. , The Maritime Commission is up the strike apparatus of the strike action, in the event we This Agents • Conference must,' have to hit the bricks this year above all, realize the potential currently pursuing its tradi­ Organization was shown by the against any operator or group dangers in this Taft-Hartley Bill tional role of a fink agency. It is manner of the operation of the of operators. Thus the Union will and the fact that, because of it,. • attempting to standardize wages Union strike against Isthmian be prepared to take the field we will see strikes throughout; aboard ships which it charters. Steamship Company this past on as short a notice as possible. this Industry the middle and lat- i These wages are, of course» be­ year. There is no necessity of The Agents Conference should ter part of this year. Each Offi-i ; low Union standards. We have analyzing this strike because of give serious thought to this mat­ cial must bear this in mind at| ; refused to recognize the Commis­ the fact that all this was car­ ter, inasmuch as whether or not this Conference, and work out|; sion's authority to set any wage ried at the time it occurred in we are prepared for a strike can a program in this Conference tog standards for our membership. the SEAFARERS LOG. easily mean the life or death put this Union in complete pre-S; The SIU stands four-square paredness in the event of suchE It is felt, however, that an of the Union. opposed to the Maritime Com­ strikes. ^ mission and regards it as an Shipping Rules and Constitution Paul Hall. enemy of. American seamen and Various recommendations Office has prepared this and Secretary-Treasurer shipping. The Commission " has through the form of ships' min­ have turned them over to this R. A. Matthews, caused a condition wherein forutes, Branch minutes and indi­ Conference for their considera­ Asst. Sec.-Treas; , eign merchant fleets are now vidual recommendations from tion and action. J. P. Shuler. operating more tonnage than membership have, been set up It is recommended to this Con­ Asst. Sec.-Treas. American ships. In fact, these on the matter of Shipping Rules ference that, in the event any J. H. Vplpian. foreign operators have greater and Constitution. Headquarters recommendations are made to Asst. Sec.-Treas. tonnage than they did in 1938. This ' the Commission has per jnitted in spite of the fact that shipyards abroad are working night and day, and the U.S.A output is less than 3 per cent From the point of view of or- up how much more profitable true right down the line. Every of the world's total tonnage un ganizipg accomplishments, the our efforts can be when we func­ single little shortcoming — no der construction. Continuation of the Maritime past year has been one of con­ tion as a well-coordinated body. matter how seemingly trivial— turned over to the District AttorCommission's present policy of siderable progress for the SIU, "Without a clearly defined pur­ in some way retards its growth. new and we doubt that he would pose and streamlined Organiza­ A poorly kept Branch Hall, a destruction of the shipping in and the gains made take prece­ even handle them. tion to put it into effect, we'd bad payoff, a failure to carry dustry-will lead to further waste dence over those of any other It should be made known to simply be striking out at many out the Union's Educational Pro­ of the taxpayer's money ^ and all persons that the SIU has been single year. The Organizing Pro­ targets — and hitting none. We gram, can foul-up the best laid large-scale unemployment among at all times opposed, and will alcannot afford to dissipate our en­ plans for expansion. For, in the gram which was laid down at American .seamen and shipyard way be vigorously opposed, to ergies; we must make every job final analysis, every Union man the 1945 Agents Conference workers. any type of Government inter­ reached a smooth, efficient level we undertake a success. —official and non-official alike— ference in the trade imion move­ of operation and culminated in In previous years, the work of is a Union Organizer. What he Coast Guard ment or to any attempt on the several important victories after the Organizing Department had does and what he may not do . During the past year we par­ Government's part to regiment a long series of preparations. eventually affects the progress tially succeeded in taking the workers in any manner. of all. The office and duties of Gen­ bite out of the Merchant Marine Fortunately, the entire Union eral Organizer were assigned to Hearing Unit. However, they Buildings and Halls apparatus has awakened to this me in mid-year. Since taking are still doing business at the fact. Increasing signs of the The Union today owns build­ over, I have made every effort same old stand imder the title membership's awareness can be^ to keep the Organizing Depart­ of • Merchant Marine Investigat­ ings in the following ports at seen every day. They have struck ment moving along at the pace ing Unit, although they no the listed values: a serious note in connection? set and established, in the early longer have the authority of Boston, Mass. with Union efficiency and pr6-| "? days of the drive. brass hats to act as both prose­ gress, as they realized that thel "; 276 State St $ 47,491.28 Many factors are responsible cutor and judge. Union's future is tied up with; Norfolk, Va. for the strides which we have The last legislature set up a 127 Bank St. its ability to expand. In thisp| 27,963.57 made, but none is more directly bill under which jnerchant sea­ Tampa, Fla. respect, the membei-ship shai-es; men could still be brought to 1809 N. Franklin St. 27,584.57 responsible than the cooperation the views of the officials whom; which is becoming more evident been hamstrung in spots by the they have elected to implement; trial before judges who are mem­ Mobile, Ala. in the conduct of our Union view that -some ports were sep­ the Organizing Program. I bers of the Civil Service. Con­ 1 So. Lawrence St 49,515.75 affairs. This essential cooperation arate "Port Unions" and not in­ gress, however, failed to appro­ New Orleans, L&. An interesting note that shouldi priate siny ihoney to pay these 339 Chartres St. ........ 20,715.81 rose to a new high in all ports. terlocking roots from which the be mentioned here is a fact that; ? The growing realization on the strength of the entire Union indicates the trend within the or-R; j judges. Consequently, there are New Orleans, La. no judges and no trials being 526 Bienville St. ...... 65,455.00 part of all Port Agents and Offi­ structure must come. Such a mis­ ganizational structure. And that? • cials that the entire Union struc­ conception of Union purpose can is that there is hardly an electedl;; ;| conducted at the present time. ture must be efficiently geared have—and has had in the past— These units are operating, Total ......$238,725.98 t6 the Organizing Program, if a paralyzing effect on SIU official today in the SIU who?,has not graduated from the ranks therefore, strictly as investigat­ of the Organizing Staff. r; ing units. 'They are preparing Note: This does not include we are to make headway, ties in growth. cases to be tried when and if anV: property of the . Union such with tbe spirit, of cooperation It goes without saying that no On the basis of this trend, the "Union can expand unless every Union's showing to date provesj 1 judges are appointed to pass on as otS^ fixtures, furniture, auto- now .prevailing. Any comparison of the accdm- point of rits machinery is operat­ the real success of the steadyfp the cases. . Under tiie . present ntobitwi. etcr^but only the buUd.plishments made -last year with ing effectively in behalf of its integration of the Organizing;;; method of investigation, these ings thenuwlves.) (Conlinued on Next Page) The Building Program of those of earlier, years will point Organizing Program. That is units only board • ships; when a Organizer's Report �THE SEAFARERS laG Organizer's Report Friday. February 27, 1948 Report of Boston Agent I Continued from Preceding Page) for maximum success, the tank­ We hav6 a Patrolman, a Dis­ which are on the list for the SIU give us no trouble here. We have er field stands as the current no Coast Guard cases and, since partment into a more promi- target of our organizing broad­ patcher and a Janitor on the Bos­ drive. Esso Tankers and other non­ we have only about 10 aliens, the ent role in the SIU's affairs. ton payroll, in addition to the side. The effect of this integration Simultaneous with the Cities Agent, and we' are letting the union tankers come into the Bos­ laws on alien seamen do not af­ ton area all the time, this being fect the Branch very much. as been manifold. Besides step- Service project, we are working Patrolman and the Dispatcher a cefltral discharge point for oil However, we are much concern­ ing up our drives and increas- on other unorganized tanker out­ alternate in jobs, so that both men for all of New England. The field ed about the alien problem and! ng the coordination so essential fits, which vary in size. will be familiar with the entire is wide open for a lot of organiz­ we feel .we will be able to keep o their success, the experience For the present then, the tank­ work and responsibilities of ing activity. these 10 men shipped. if all hands participating has er field is the baby. We have the Breinch. In this w.ay, if we Regarding the Constitution and The Hall in this port which is ; enabled us to reduce expenses. It has also permitted a maximum already made notable progress. ever have to cut down, we will Shipping' Rules, the prevailing owned by the Union, is clean and degree of flexibility in the use The field for organizing activity be prepared. Also, if business opinion around Boston among generally shipshape. On the subject of increasing the of all our organizational assets in this section of the Maritime picks up, we will not have to Officigls and membership alikfris that shipboard promotions should efficiency of the Union as a in pushing ahead on our pro­ Industry is viast, the obstacles are employ any new help. many. It must be repeated that be abolished. There is also a feel­ whole, the recommendation I gram. •our success will be determine^ During the Isthmian strike last ing that meetings should be call­ would make is a large-scale edu­ Probably the best proof of the by the amount of energy and summer, the Branch got no ac­ ed at an earlier hour than 7 p.m. cation program that would do the workability of our Program is; gygj,y^Union member tual help from other Unions, ex­ Under education and publicity, job better than anything else. cept from the Longshoremen who demonstrated by the range of the jg ready to give. we have established a beef box The Branch averages several did respect SIU picketlines. At Organizing Department's efforts and a mailing box to encourage payoffs a week, and gets a lot of the same time, the NMU talked and the result^ it attained. Other Organizing the submission of articles to the ships in transit. There usually are "unity" to our face and did -its For the purpose of brevity, the LOG, and the Port sends weekly -enough men around to fill all Department Activities best to raid SIU ships behind oiir the accomplishments of the past reports of the situation in Bos­ jobs called. year will be reviewed in out- In addition to the activities back. The MCS and MFOWW, ton to be printed in the LOG. With regard to cooperation |,line. For a more comprehensive directly involved in spearheading having no Halls in Boston,, show­ We have quorums regularly with other AFL Unions in this ed no attitude whatsoever. ipicture of the Organizing De­ the Union's expansion program, for the meetings and the mem­ partment's work, you are re­ the Organizing Department was The Isthmian strike and other bership takes an active part at area, I am not familiar with the ferred to the booklet, "Seafarers engaged in many other endeav­ things have shown that there all times. A good deal of the dis- situation last year. However, this .. year, the Boston Branch plans to Organizing Program," a reprint ors—all related to the tighten­ should be a permanent strike ap­ cussion •at, the meetings concerns , contact all AFL ATTT Maritime TT • . ..... Unions of which appeared in the Novem­ ing of the general organizational paratus in this port. While there pnncfifiifmnaI fiiir I _ constitutional fannninaliflac technicalities. Our ber 7, 1947 issue of the Sea- structure of our Union and in- is not, in my opinion, much meetings could be made a good and other AFL Unions and to es­ arers LOG. cresing the SIU's prestige in the chance of a general strike this deal better if we had a good edu­ tablish good relations with all labor movement. year, there is every possibility cational program which could of them. The Branch takes an active part in the affairs of the Union's Organizing Gain The latter objectives are the that we might have to take ac­ run during the week. Central Trades and Labor bodies The membership here seems of Boston and the State of Mass­ During the past year, 15 pre-1 Particular concern of the organ- tion against individual compan­ iously unorganized companies i^ing arm of the Union, becauK ies, the Taft-Hartley Act, or the well satisfied with the contracts, achusetts. In this way, the SIU's although there are points that responsibilities in the entire la­ were brought under the SIU without a sound, smooth-work­ communists. banner. With the signing of the ing organization that enjoys top AU-the Cities Service ships hit everybody thinks should be clari­ bor movement in the Boston area contracts with these outfits, a inter-union relations, our work the Boston area eventually. The fied. In general, the Branch has- will be discharged to the best total of 93 more ships was add­ among the unorganized could Branch Officials encourage the good relations with the compan­ interest of the SIU and of our members to get .aboard those ies but the West Coast tanker trade union brothers in other ed to those already being crewed well be in vain. up from our Union hiring halls.! Briefly, we have responded ships and the Branch Creeps or- outfits give some trouble, large- fields. Prospects are that some of!with picketline help and related ganizational literature dti handJjy because they operate through Waller J. Siekmann, these companies will expand I of assistance, to aU caUs at all times. In addition, the Of­ local agents. The Government Bureaucrats Agent their operations, which will cor- from legitimate trade unions ficials hit the unorganized ships respondingly increase the num- fighting good beefs. The increase in good will that has resulted ber of their vessels. Of these 15 companies, 11 are '""V poUcy has been trcf dry-cargo operators, 3 are tankespecially when it is er concerns, and one is a* deep- recalled that a few years ago our activities in this direction • During the past year, the SEA­ merchant seamen. It is the means At the present time, the fol­ sea towing outfit. were practically zero. FARERS LOG has proven itself whereby the membership and of­ lowing booklets are in the pro­ The reputation of the SIU has a powerful weapon in spreading ficials can be fully informed on cess of publication and should be Present Organizing jumped in all ports and our the Union's news, educational all phases of Seafarers activities, ready for distribution in a few Status officials carry weight in the gen­ program and progress to mem­ and kept fully conscious of their weeks at the most: role in building a stronger SIU. eral labor set-up ^in their res­ bers both at home and abroad. 1. A handbook for ships' dele­ The announcement last week A full-fledged educational pro­ gates. Over and over again, the LOG pective ports. by the National Labor Relations Board on the voting conducted To bolster our defenses in a'U has proven itself an invaluable gram means an alert member­ , 2. A pamphlet addressed to peramong unlicensed personnel of ports, we are constantly working organizing aid, as our Isthmian ship, which, in turn, insures a mitmen, which should aid great­ the Cities Service Oil Company's to expand the Maritime Trades and Cities Service victories — stronger Union. ly in integrating newcomers into Our educational literature ser­ the SIU. ^ tanker fleet gave terrific impe­ Depflrtment, the AFL's national among the many others—have so tus to our current drive in the body of Maritime Unions, which clearly shown. Tliousands of un­ ves two general purposes: 3. A revised and enlarged edi­ organized seamen have been get­ 1. It is^a^ftieans of instructing the SIU originally proposed. tanker field. tion of the Organizers' Handbook. The SIU recei'ved a total of For the days ahead, we will ting the SIU's message in places the membership in the essentials 4. A round-up pamphlet for the - 153. votes as -against 30 cast for have to step up our efforts in where organizers have no entree. of sound, healthy unionism. Special Service Department of "No Union," giving us 83 per every phase of our current ac­ And this brings us to the one 2. It is an essential adjunct to the Union. ^ cent of the valid ballots. tivity. To meet the new prob- big problem that always faces us any organizing drives by the 5. A full-sized history of Sea­ This overwhelming victory lemsi we must be well prepared. —increasing the circulation of Union. farers strike action. This will be • paves the way for the next step, If we are, the difficulties will the Union paper, not only among Until a few years ago, our ed­ published in a pocket-size edition our own members, but to all ! which is the polling of the Cit­ be decreased considerably. ucational literature appeared in­ and will sell for approximately The winning of all these ob­ maritime workers and the public frequently and sporadically. 25c, a price that^is at once cheap jectives will not sigrihl the end in general. However, the Program was step­ and will pay for any copies that However, the ciixulation can of our Organizing Program, ped up last year, and we printed which must be integrated into be —and should be —increased numerous booklets and pamph­ remain unsold. Other publications are being Union policy if it iai to function and in this the Port Agents are lets. planned. the key men. as the sparkplug of organiza­ The response to the increased Experience has shown the need The following are some of the tional growth. output was significant. Requests for intensification of the Educa­ things that can be done to boost The Organizing Department— for copies, and suggestions for tional Program, for the benefit and, for that matter, the entire the LOG mailing list: other publications have come of our own membership and as 1. A regular announcement by Union—is definitely committed to the Agent at Branch meetings from all quarters, demonstrating an adjunct to the organizing a program of continuing pro­ at Good and Welfare that the the membership's interest and campaigns. gress. What must be perfected, as the' LOG will be sent free to the the need for educational material. -The SIU is young and healthy. Similarly, the .-volunteer or­ LOG, is the method of distribu­ home of every member, his It boasts a membership that has family or friends, followed by ganizers and the Union's Organ­ tion. We must be certain that ies Service men on the question time and again demonstrated it distribution and collection of izing Staff, who have been in every publication reaches not of a Union shop as required im- is willing and able to support a constant touch with the unor­ only every one of our own mem­ subscription cards. der the Taft-Hartley Law. program of expansion. We must ganized seamen, have testified to bers, btit that unorganized sea­ Important as the Cities Serv­ puslr ahead on the membership's 2. A sign to the same effect, to­ the importance of our literature men and members of other gether with a sub-card disice victory is at the moment, it mandate. as an organizing medium. Unions find our publications '4>enser, should be prominently iwill have even greater signi- We cannot allow any signs of easily available. displayed in every Hall. A strong case in point, is the ificance in the near future, since stagnation in any single part of Since mailing these educational [plans are now under way to ex- the Union structure, else all of 3. Announcements at each meet­ Isthmian campaign which was ing, during Good and Welfare, successful, in large part, due to publications to the LOG subscrib­ jpand the fleet to 22 ships. Ac- the hard-won gains, and the that the LOG wants addresses the effective use of Union litera­ ers is too expensive a procedure, Iquisition of that fleet would Union's strength with them, "some other ways must be devised of bars and clubs, ^., where ture throughout the drive. [definitely establish the SIU as stand in serious jeopardy. The SIU men congregate both in It should be added now that by this Conference. It would formidable trade union factor Seafarers' future lies in expanthe U.S. and in'foreign ports'. pubUcations costs are kept to an seem to us that the already es­ fn the tanker industry. .sion. extremely low figure, since the tablished apparatus of. the Union In line with our policy of es- It is to that end that we must Union Education greater part of our material is —the Branches, the Organizing fcablishing points of concentration key all our efforts. How well we riin off on the Union's multilith Staff, and the volunteer ships' In the unorganized sections of do that will determine how far Like the Union newspaper, the machine, whenever feasible, and organizers—may solve this ques­ ihe Maritime Industry, and we go. SKID'S Educational Program is a costs little more than the price tion. powerful influence in accomplish­ t)ringing into play the full powLindsey Williams, of the paper used. GeorgS Novick, Editor of LOG ing our goals as a trade union of tr of our organizing machinery General Organizer i\ Report of Log Editor .•J '"C.1 �•f tn E S EAE AR E RS FHday; February 57; 1M8 This Port is clicking smoothly in all its activities. At present, we are operating with the following Staff: Three Dispatchers, two Stewards Pa­ trolmen, two Joint Patrolmen, two Engine Patrolmen, two Deck Patrolmen, and one Baggage Room Attendant, in addition to .'.V ^'temporary help . as needed. In accordance with the Union's Economy Program, as stressed by the previous Agents Con­ ference, the Port is now operat­ ing with the minimum personnel possible under existing condi­ tions. We have constantly trim­ med all expenditures to give us a maximum of operating effi­ ciency with the least possible expense. In view of our steady attention to this matter, further cuts would be inadvisable since they would result in sacrifice of efficiency in handling the Port's business. However, the moment any situ­ ation presents itself that would make further reduction of ex­ penditures feasible, the Port of New York will act immediately. As in all previous strikes, the membership in the Port of New York during the Isthmian strike responded enthusiastically. In every phase of the conduct of ^ LOG Page Seven Reaoit of New York Agent being on the ball has made for quick settlement of beefs. When they aren't busy with payoffs or beefs, they turn to other Union the strike, we always had avail­ ing for any," nor did we need it. great effect in increasing mem­ business such as organizing work, etc. able a considerably larger num­ In New York, relations with the bership interest in the LOG. The Coast Guard at present is MFOWW are pretty good. We feel the LOG should be in­ ber of men than was needed for causing us very little trouble In our opinion, the SlU strike creased by four pages to allow any particular task. The mem­ apparatus can be improved by for even greater coverage of here, and there are very few bership showed an alertness and education of the membership, a Union and Maritime activity, if cases coming up. The granting determination to win the strike program which was already in an'd when such an increase is of citizenship to alien members who sailed during the war would that will be of definite value in effect last year. Strike efficiency possible. greatly help ease the problem, can be stepped up by a broader There is always far more than future beefs as well. since we have about 200 aliens and far-reaching plan of educa­ a quota at our membership meet­ around our Port. We had our usual good coop­ tion. ings which are held regularly. eration from the Internationali Our Hall is in good, clean Longshoremen's Association and Insofar as the AFL Port Coun­ Membership participation in the shape. Frenchy Michelet, our its various locals, including the cil in this Port is concerned, re­ meetings is very good. A great building superintendent, is do­ Marine Division of that Union. lations with the other member variety of discussions take place ing an excellent job in keeping The local Port Council of the Unions are already at a high in which many men take the things shipshape. It is rented. AFL Maritime Trades Depart­ level of cooperation. This can floor, especially under Good and However, we feel that a Hall Welfare. ment was cooperative in every should be purchased that would Interest in the meetings is al­ fill the bill as our present acrespect throughout the period of ready pretty high and meetings commandations are inadequate. the Isthmian strike, which went are generally of overflow propor­ With the possibility of several off smoothly in this Port. No tions. Begirming with our next new companies coming under trouble was encountered on any meeting, however, we are taking contract, we would need more score. our Branch's public address gear space. It could be financed by a The National Maritime Union to the meeting hall. We've found Building Assessment of $10. wished us '/good luck" when we the equipment in the meeting Coordination between this pulled the pin, although, up to hall to be unreliable and this Branch and other Branches and that time, they had used every will be remedied from now on. Headquarters is good. We give device in the books to keep the Our contracts rate tops with prompt response to all requests Isthmian seamen from getting the membership, since they are from them and we have received the representation of the SlU, the best in the Industry. Some quick response to all our com­ which they overwhelmingly vot­ ed for. From the MCS we got be maintained by continuing our clariflcations are still needed, munications. no cooperation—we weren't look- efforts for mutual understanding however, in the Deck, Engine, Ships paying off in this Port and Stewards Departments. range from 10 to 20 a week, de­ on all problems of concern to At regular meetings, the mem­ pending upon conditions, with the group, and we will work in bership has endorsed our cur­ others coming in transit status. that direction. rent negotiations for another All. beefs are settled at the point The great possibility we see wage increase and has made of production. This Port is operating with few clarifications are needed on for a strike this year lies in the some recommendations f or We generally have enough men Taft-Hartley T^aw. It is probable changes in working rules. I to meet the jobs. If we lack one Patrolman-Dispatcher, in ad­ some of the working rules. dition to the Agent. Relations with operators of that we could be forced into a Relations with operators in needed manpower, we call other strike because of the adminis­ Since the effectiveness of the vessels making this Port are tration of the Law. That de­ this" Port are fair. No trouble Ports, and we have no trouble Union's strike machinery de­ good. None of our men encounter pends entirely on events ahead. is had in settling beefs. Our in getting operators to give pends on the membership's un­ any trouble with the Coast We wish to emphasize that pre­ Patrolmen are very well-experi- transportation for men needed enced and discharge their duties in other Ports, derstanding of our objectives, a Guard, and the alien seamen's paredness is essential. with maximum efficiency. Their | J.oe Algina, Agent broadening of the Education problem in Tampa is negligible. Experience in this Port shows Program directed at^ both those The Branch owns its own Hall, within our Organization and the which is in tiptop shape. This that the membership is whole­ unorganized seamen might be building is of particular advan­ heartedly in favor of, and sup­ tage in a beef, since we have ports fully, the Union's Organ­ of great benefit. izing Program. They hav^ been A strike in which our Union facilities for complete service to very helpful on every count and This Branch is in good condi- and maybe sports would be a good thing, if it is possible. An may be involved appears likely the members with adequate are eager for organizing oppor­ tion. for this year, in relation to the space to feed and house them tunities. The response shown in There is one Patrolman, a Dis­ explanation on some parts of the in an emergency. Taft-Hartley Law. the Cities Service Organizing patcher-Patrolman, one Organ­ working rules in each issue of We have found, too, that own­ Drive shows what can be done izer-Patrolman and a Secretary the paper might be helpful. The Union's Organizing Pro­ ing our own building gives the on the Branch Staff, in addition Thfere is always a quorum pres­ gram has the full endorsement Union greater prestige among by the membership. ent for our regular membership to the Agent. Unorganized ships on which of the membership on the Tampa other organizations in the labor meetings and all hands take an the Union is concentrating come During the Isthmian strike, in beach and they favor continua­ movement. into the Port from time to time. which the membership here went active and enthusiastic part in tion of the all-out drive which already has met with much suc­ We have no beefs concerning It is a hard and fast rule here all-out, other Unions respected the proceedings. Shipping Rules, the cooperation we get from that all organizing efforts be our picketlines and the Long­ Organizing and a new Hall for cess. other Branches and Headquar­ given the full support and co­ shoremen refused to work Isth­ Philadelphia are topics always Several recommendations which ters. All requests have been operation of the Port's entire under discussion. mian ships. the Port has to present to the handlied promptly and any aid facilities and personnel. When­ The membership here supports Agents Conference are those per­ we have requested has been dis­ ever and wherever the situation One thing that was learned the present Union drive to ob­ from the Isthmian strike was taining to shipboard promotions patched right away. demands it. New York Port ma­ that a standard procedure should tain new wage increases to off­ and other Shipping Rules. Tampa averages one to two chinery is put at the disposal of be set up by which men would set the rising cost of living. Some Reports from this Port are dis­ payoffs a week, although several the Organizing Director. be uniformly fined for, missing clarification of working rules and patched to the LOG each week. ships come in here on an in A good many of the smaller picket duty, since it is the obli­ overtime provisions would be All points in Tampa where sea­ transit status. craft-like towboats, ferries, etc. gation of all members to support helpful in eliminating beefs. men hang out receive ample Fink Halls are no problem in —come under the jurisdiction of the Union at all times. Generally speaking, our rela­ copies of each issue. In fact, this Port. If any need arises for the ILA in New York. Whei-e tions with the companies here Any strike action taken by the many other Trade Unions, with manpower which we are unable they did not have jurisdiction, we are very good. Best company to whom we have excellent rela­ to supply, we contact the near­ have gone all-out. All companies SlU this year is moi-e likely to do business with is Waterman tions, also receive the paper, est SlU Port. However, we gen­ unorganized are giveh complete be taken against the Taft-Hartley and the two toughest appear to which we have tried to use to erally have sufficient men avail­ attention. Cities Service was one, Law. The membership hei-e is deep­ be Calmar and Isthmian. Reason cement our good relations. able to meet any such needs. Meseck towboats was another. ly interested in the Organizing for beefs with Calmar is that it Membership in this Port is All officials of this Branch are We favor full continuation of Campaign and-they will give it won't store its ships properly active in our meeting. Problems active in local trade union af­ the highly successful Organizing everything they've got. We get without the Union taking action. of Organizing and matters of lo­ fairs. The SlU has played, and Drive which the SIU has been quite a few Cities Service ships The local membership is active cal Union concern are among continues to play, an important pushing in Maritime. There are in here and they are contacted in keeping down performers. those points discussed most fre­ role in Tampa's union move­ still great possibilities for the whenever possible. Full cooperaThe Coast Guard is no trouble ment, as a result of which we Union among the unorganized. -tion has been given to the Or­ here. In fact, there have been quently. Several^ recommendations were One point that is constantly have created considerable good made by the membership at reg­ ganizing Department from this only two or three cases here in will throughout the community. a year. raised at our meetings is the ular meetings in regard to Con­ Port. With only about 10 or 15 aliens problem of the local shipchand- Last year we gave all-out sup­ stitution and Shipping Rules Among the changes recom­ lers. Our membership has been port to the Teamsters Union in throughout the year. Among mended by the membership for around the port, we are general­ instructed to refrain from buy­ its conduct of the taxi strike. them were suggestions on ship­ consideration by the Agents' ly able to ship them, so there is • ing any stores from these finks, Only a few weeks ago, we had board promotions and changes Conference is to stop shipboard no problem on this issue. who refused to support us dur­ men on the picketlines in sup­ in rules — all recommendations promotions and changes in the The Philadelphia Hall, which ing the 1946 General Strike. The port of the International Asso­ are being turned ovgr to the Shipping Rules which would in­ is rented, is far from adequate. membership has been requested ciation of Machinists which was Agents Conference as per mem­ voke a four-hour limit in the It is very difficult to keep clean; to pass this word to all Stewards striking against the airlines at bership instructions. amount of time a man has to it is a firetrap and is not large throughout the maritime indus­ the local airport. enough to hold our meetings. This Port submits a weekly turn do\jj'n a job. try, and we have asked local Our efforts in copperating with report to the J,OG. To encourage Reports are submitted by this On an average, we have two or Unions to help us by-pass these the labor movement here have wider circulation of the Union Port to the LOG each week, and three payoffs here a week and a resulted in much good will for newspaper among the member­ the paper is widely distributed in number of vessels in transit most finks. the Seafarers, and have brought ship, we ha"ve placed a box and Philadelphia, of the time. Seldom does the Port Our contracts are in the mem­ pledges of cooperation to us from application cards on the fiftli An increase in the size of the have to turn to Headquarters bership's opinion good ones, and deck;- as well as signs through­ LOG to permit a roundup of cur­ for help in settling a beef. they recognize the superior pro­ many organizations. L. A. Gardner. Agent C, Simmons, Agent out the building. This has had rent events, general labor news, visions of pur agreements. Some Report of Tampa Agent Report of Philadelphia Agent ? '13 �A, Page Eight THE S EAT ARE RS L O G Report of Baltimore Agent "V. Friftay, February 27* 1948 Report of Mobile Agent The business of the Port of addition we submit other mate­ On all fronts, the Seafarers In­ bile, and it is in good condition. Baltimore is handled by the fol­ rial of interest to the member­ ternational Union made great Some repairs and improvements In the organization of the Ma­ lowing Staff: one Agent, one Dis­ ship. Members on the beach strides during the past year. In have been made lately which rine Allied Workers — such as patcher, four Patrolmen, one here are encouraged to submit this Branch, we have solidified will save us money in the long the fishermen, tugboatmen, and Janitor-Handyman, who also ful­ letters, stories, suggestions to the the strength of the Maritime run. The men are satisfied with riggers -r the LOG helped out a great deal with stories and pic­ fills Patrolman's duties, and one paper, and any material we get Trades Council, organized tug­ the Hall, but much more wiU tures. Practically all of these from them that is of general in­ boats, riggers and shoregang, and be done when our first floor Secretary. men get the LOG, and seeing We are operating with a terest, including pictures, are made plans to extend this Or­ tenant moves out. pictures and storieS about them­ minimum of personnel and there forwarded to the LOG. ganizing Drive to the few un­ selves made them feel like an Our main problem at present Every possible hangout of sea­ organized towboat companies. . are no recommendations for pos­ important part of the Union. is manpower. Many ^ times we men receives copies of the LOG sible reduction at the present. The biggest single action of have had to send to The nearest Our- relationship with the op­ We had solid response from and we steadily try to widen our the past year was the Isthmian SIU Port to* help us supplj- erators is pretty good. We con­ the membership during the con- circulation in the Port. Meetings strike and that proved that the enough men to fill the contracted duct of the Isthmian strike in are always attended by a full SIU has one of the smoothest jobs. As long as other Ports can tact all ships as soon as they this Port. Their interest in this quorum and more, with the strike. machines in existence. help us, we will be okay, and arrive, and get air recommen­ important beef made it 100 per­ membership actively participat­ The only recommendation I have we don't want to issue tripcards dations so that fhey can be thrashed out before the payoff. cent effective and they handled ing in the sessions. The Or­ is that the financial end be clar­ unless absolutely necessary. That keeps bum beefs down to ganization program generally is ified so that all Branches will themselves weU throughout. a minimum, and enables us to the most frequently discussed operate under the same program. We're averaging about seven really hit hard on the legitimate The American Federation of topics. payoffs each week, with about Labor Unions in Baltimore, with In Mobile, the membership Seafarers in this Port regard the same number of sign-ons. beefs. whom we enjoy very good rela­ our present contracts as very was solidly behind the Isthmian Many'ships in transit hit this The Coast Guard hasn't bother­ tions, gave us their full support. good. Some provisions of the strike, and we received full sup­ Port, and they are also visited ed us lately, but we keep a close The NMU, MCS and MFOWW contracts, however, require clari­ port from all other Unions. The by the Patrolmen. We try to watch because they may be get­ respected our picketlines. The fication. Aside from this, the NMU respected ^ur picketlines, settle all the beefs right in our ting ready for some more un­ conduct of the strike was air­ membership has no recommenda- and had the action lasted longer, own Port, and have only had derhanded work. None of our tight. there would have been no chance tioris for future negotiations at to send an average of two beefs men has been charged by the for the company to fink any of The strike apparatus has been the present time. per year to New York for set­ Coast Guacd for ^ any offense becoming more and more effec­ The Coast Guard is no head­ its ships out. tlement. whatsoever, and it looks like the It appears at this time that tive each year, and each beef ache at this time. No instances SIU program against the brass has made us stronger for the of trouble involving our mem- there are two things facing the The Log has proved to be a hats really paid off. valuable asset in our organizing. next one. To keep us prepared bers with the Coast Guard have Union this year. One is the pos­ The membership of the Mo- : sibility of a. strike if the com­ We post copies of the paper in for any kind of a beef, the mem­ arisen here for some time. bile Branch has made no specific all the seamen's hangouts, and bership here feels a $10.00 Strike With approximately 50 alien panies, backed up by the bur­ recommendations, other than that have plenty of copies -available eaucrats, try to scuttle the Union Assessment might be of great members around our Port, they the Union continue to organize in the Union Hall. In addition, Hiring Hall. If this happens, the help in making our position more do not pose any particular prob­ the unorganized and to lead the we encourage the men to sub­ membership would hit the bricks solid for the future. lem for the Brai^ch. Neverthe­ on a second's notice and stay scribe to the LOG so that their way in wages and conditions. The AFL Port Council in less, if they were to be granted families can also read it. -Gal Tanner, Agent Baltimore is a strong, closely-co­ citizenship for wartime service, out until hell freezes over, if necessary. ^ operating organization right now, whatever problem does exist The other situation is in re­ and we are continually doing our would disappear entirely. We spect to« further organizing. We utmost to tighten its effective­ are in favor and support their have petitioned the Radcliff Sand ness'at all times. right for recognition of their and Gravel Company (two tugs The one fiy in the ointment, w.T service. and two dredges), and the Besides the Agent, this Port times to aid in whatever way The building we occupy is Beardsley Towing Company has a Patrolman who also acts possible. which will no doubt cause a , strike this year is the Taft-_^ rented by the Union. It is kept (three towboats). We also intend as Dispatcher. We do expect, however, to be Hartley Law. For such possible clean and in good shape to increase our shoregang and able to assume a part in the Or­ development ,we must keep ab­ throughout, and whatever im­ rigging membership to about 250. There are no recommendations ganizing Drive by working on provements are possible are solutely prepared. There is a great desire on the that can be made '^at present to the tinkers going into Jackson­ In the Port of Baltimore, the made in the membership's in­ port of our members to get a further reduce the Port's expen­ ville shipyard for repairs since membership of the Union is 100 terest. real toehold -in the tanker in­ ditures. this is the closest Port. We have about eight ships dustry. Winning the Cities Serv­ A possibility for improvement percent in favor of the SIU's allNews of^ this Port's activities out Organizing Drive and has paying off, on an average, each ice electiqn is a long step for­ in the Union's strike apparatus are sent into the LOG whenever shown its willingness to help in week in this Port.. Many ves­ ward, and. whatever volunteer might be had by building a bet­ there are any developments. All bringing the unorganized into sels make Baltimore a Port of organizing is needed" to do the ter strike set-up which can be possible points are covered in oxir ranks. There are numerous CaU. With our policy of set­ rest of the job, will be furnished made to meet .each kind of beef. distributing the paper here. unorganized ships coming into tling beefs at the point of pro­ by the membership, just as it In spite of the fact that there Membership meetings are held the Port, and we are cooperating duction, it is very seldom that was in the Isthmian Drive. seems to be little possibility of here whenever a quorum is in all possible ways with the beefs have to be submitted to Our meetings in this Branch a strike developing, unless the , Organizing Department in fur­ Headquarters. This may hap­ are well attended, and the men Taft-Hartley Law is pushed, we present.. At the meetings. Union program and policy are discussed thering the program it is push­ pen possibly twice a year. take an active interest in the should maintain our strike ap­ with emphasis on the Expansion Generally there is sufficient affairs of the Union. Lately most paratus for any eventuality. ing ahead on. Drive. With respect to the expansion manpower on the beach here to of our discussions have centered The membership holds the and organization Program of the fill our needs. Should man- around the contract. Shipping The membership here is ' in Union, we feel the results prove power problems arise in this Rules, and take-home pay. The favor of a full program of or­ present contracts of the SIU to it is a wise move and that all, Port, we immediately notify gashound problem has practical­ ganizing and are behind our be the best in the industry and, cui-rent objectives 100 percent. except for a few clarifications, our efforts should be directed to the nearest SIU Port and re­ ly been eliminated. At present, there are no unor­ has no recommendations. They quest men. further expansion. Most of the men feel that the ganized ships on which the have endorsed the wage increase The membership in this Port All Port Officials of the present agreements are good, and Union is concentrating coming which the Negotiating Committee has made several recommenda­ Branch attend meetings of the realize that the only way to is presently trying to win from into Savannah. tions in regard to changes in local AFL Maritime Port Coun­ better them is by staying right Sliipping Rules. As per instruc­ cil regularly and take an active on the course and not allowing Generally speaking, since Sa­ the operators to meet the in­ tions, these proposed changes part in its affairs. The Council the companies to point the fin­ vannah is mainly a Port for creased cost of living. Relations with the South At­ will be turned over to this Con­ in this Port is strong and effec­ ger at the Union. For that rea­ South Atlantic Ships, this Branch lantic Stean. ship Company are tive and is of great value in ference. son, we try to live up to our has had little to do in the way fair and we have no trouble in Reports from Baltimore appear ^ major beefs. end of the contract all the time. of helping the Organizing Drive, ||i^ ; in the LOG each issue and in, Wm. Renlz, Agent • We own our building in Mo­ although we stand ready at all settling beefs aboard their ships. No trouble is experienced here Report of Savannah Agent One Dispatcher and the Ag­ ent handle the business of this Port. Under existing circumstances, |ers. Meetings are being held it would be impossible to rec- ILA are good in this Port. "The SIU's Organizing Drive is more regularly now. Interest in onunend further cuts in the being felt down )^ere as it has the meetings is high and* among .Port's expenditures. San Juan was not affected by created more jbbs for the Puerto the subjects rating the most disthe Isthmian strike, inasmuch as Rican membership, and the cussion is shoregang work. none of that company's ships membership is behind it all the The general opinion here is that our coiRracts are the best touch the Port. In spite of this, way. however, the membership here One of the primary recom­ in the industry. The only clari­ was greatly interested in the mendations which the member­ fication that seems to be needed strike, which they followed close­ ship in San Juan has instructed is in reference to some of the me to bring up at the Agents Stewards Department .working ly in the LOG. A strike is always possible in Conference is a suggestion for a rules. maritime because of the Taft- change to allow extension in Our relationship with the op­ Hartley Law, and on this score time for permitrrien aboard ship erators here are good, and there it would be wise to be prepared from the present three months is no s trouble in settling beefs. to six months. The membership in this Port throughout the year. Articles are sent to the LOG will hardly be affected by any As yet there is no AFL Port Council in San Juan, but we each week from this Port and laws affecting alien seamen, have been working to establish the local labor situation is re­ since few of them are in this one, and our relatior^,^wpv ^ nff* ts the Seafar- poft; in fact, there are just two Report of San Juan Agent alien members around San Juan. The Coast Guard is no longer a problem in San Juan, as seems to be the situation generally. The Hall presently occupied by the SIU in San Juan is. rent­ ed. it is clean, but inadequate for our needs and a change, whether to another rented spot, or one that thd" Union might purchase, would be of benefit to the membership. Other Torts have been work­ ing smoothly with San Juan, as has Headquarters, with all of our requests being answered promptly. A payoff takes place in San Juan every other week, and there are two ships putting in here in transit every week. There are enough men in the Port to fill any manpov/er needs. Colls, Agent from the Coast Guard, and the alien seamen problem does not have any proportions, with fey, if any, on the beach in Savaimah. We have no complaint with re­ gard to relations with other Ports and •Headquarters. All re­ quests made have been met promptly. About one payoff a week takes place in the Port of Savannah, and other ships make it a Port of Call. Calls for jobs can always be filled with local manpower. No fink halls operate in this Port. We call upon the nearest SIU Hall when we are unable to meet any job calls. This Branch is doing whatever is possible to improve relations with other trade unions in Savannah. At the present time, the state of our relations is on a good plane, C. starling, Agentr/-AI m �Friday, February 27, 1948 THES^ArFARERS Report of Now Orloans Agent This Branch is now operating under a policy of economy, which, however, does not inter­ fere with efficiency and service to the membership. We have on the payroll four Patrolmen, one Dispatcher, one combination Dis­ patcher-Doorman, one JanitorHandyman, and one Secretary. The Isthmian strike gave the Union a chance to find out whether or not our strike appar­ atus had improved in the year since the General Strike, There was no question about it—it has. On the whole, the Isthmian Strike was much smoother, and the entire Union machinery was LOG Report of Norfolk Agent the less there are still quite a few snags show up, changes can be The Port of Norfolk is on a take it away through the 'Taftpretty even keel. On the staff, Hartley Law. guys who never take the floor. made at that time. For this reason, an Educational Ave average about six payoffs we have one Patrolman, one The organizational progress of Program in each Part" would be each week, and about the same Dispatcher, one Janitor-Patrol­ the past year has strengthened a good idea so that our mem­ number of sign-ons. There are the Union immeasurably, and man, and one Secretary. bers could become better speak­ several ships hitting this Port in the membership in Norfolk is It does not appear that ex­ for its all-out continuance. The ers and again enough confidence transit each week. As a general to make themselves heard when rule, we settle all our own beefs penses can be cut any more, but men want to move right in on anything important comes up. and seldom pass a beef on to occasional surveys will be made any unorganized lines, and with Our agreements are considered Headquarters for settlement. all available resources. to see what can be done. by our members to be the best in In regard to manpower, we are During the Isthmian strike, the 'We are doing all in our power the industry, and the member­ okay, and we have enough men ship has not made any recom­ on the beach to fill our con­ membership went down the line to further the SIU's Organizing Drive. Very few of the ships mendation along this line for tracted jobs. and enthusiastically backed every currently being worked on come Whenever necessary, we call move. The spirit of the strike this Conference. into this Port, but when they do, Relations with the operators upon near SIU Branches for help was reflected in the 100 per we contact the crews, distribute are good in "this Port and we in crewing up ships, and we also literature, and try to get pledge cent support given us by the rarely have to tie up a ship to supply men if called on to do so. cards signed to be sent to Head­ There is never any problem col­ MCS and the MFOWW. The square a beef. quarters. NMU respected our picketlines, Sometimes the Coast Guard is lecting money for transportation and" that's all we wanted from called in to complicate matters. from the operators. The membership and officials We cooperate with the other them. of this Port are in favor of the This happens abput 2 or 3 times a week. We represent aU mem­ AFL Unions in this Port and Since last year, our strike ap­ Constitution and Shipping Rules bers and try our best to break have been instrumental in or­ paratus has been streamlined and as they now stand, but want to ganizing the waitresses and bar­ now there is nothing that this go on record as being opposed to the Coast Guard charges. shipboard promotions. This has Our present HaU is in fair tenders, and in helping other Port recommends. shape and is clean, but we are Unions win their strikes. Our The AFL Maritime Trades come up quite a bit lately, and looking forward to the time Branch is active in the Maritime Council is now functioning 100 the Branch feels that the Agents when we can move into our new Trades Council, and we have percent and is an important it­ should do something to stop this home. Tffis should take place good coordination of effort with em in the daily affairs of the practice. all other Unions in the Council. affiliated Unions. This is good in the Spring. The LOG is distributed to var­ This Port is also Headquarters because it provides a strong ious places where seamen gather, The Union structure here is in good condition, and the coopera­ for the Marine Allied Workers, backing in the event of a strike. and men are encouraged to have tion between the Ports and from SIU affiliate, which covers Fish­ We should be ready for a the paper sent to their families. Headquarters is generally pretty ermen, Tugboatmen, and Allied strike at any time, because even good. - There are no recommen­ Workei-s. All these outfits are if wages and conditions are bet­ Our Branch meetings are held dations for making the Union maintained and serviced by the tered, we will have to hit the regularly, and the membership business system more effective Port's facilities. bricks to save our Union Hiring. takes an active part in all dis­ E. Sheppard, Agent That is, if the operators try to at this time, but should any able to swing into action very quickly. This Branch went allout in the action, and our picketlines were respected by all other Unions, including the NMU, MCS, and MFOWW. Although some of the CIO Unions offered us assistance, we refused and told them just to respect our lines. This year again we face the possibility of strike, only wages and conditions will not be the Operations in the Port of Gal­ ganizers and we can be called here and we seldom have cases _ main issues. This year, we will veston, which is now serving the upon at any time for any job. involving our members. The have to fight- to maintain our entire Texas area, are running At present, we are surveying problem of alien seamen is very Hiring Hall and, if that is neces­ smoothly. In addition to the the possibilities existing among little felt in this port, as we av­ sary, the membership will be Agent, we have two Patrolmen, unorganized outfits in this area. erage only about ten alien sea­ solidly behind such a strike. one Dispatcher, and a Secretary. We feel there are good possibil­ men on the beach here. However, The attitude of the member­ In view of the wide area of ities for organizing them, and in the membership feels v e r y ship toward the Organizing Cam­ operations, there is little possi­ this connection will cooperate strongly about the treatm-nt paign is just as good now as it bility of expenditures being cut with the Organizing Director and handed our alien Brothers and his staff. recommends that the Union con­ was during the Isthmian Drive. any further. The one big recommendation tinue using its apparatus until cussions and all decisions. Most There is never any trouble* get­ Membership in the Texas ports of the talk centers around con­ ting men to volunteer for un­ went all the way in supporting which the membership in this their beef is settled. tracts, Shipping Rules, and the organized ships and these men the^ Isthmian strike. We had Our Hall is in good shape and Organizing Drive. do a bang-up job once they get plently of volunteers for all the is kept clean. We rent our pres­ In the opinion of the members aboard. ent quarters. necessary strike duties and all Shoreside help consists of con­ hands were anxious to do their We have no beef in our rela­ our present contracts are very tacting the ships as soon as pos­ bit. tionship with the other ports as good, but recommend that better sible and telling the crews the we always get prompt answers wages be aimed for in the next All other Unions in these ports latest organizational develop­ supported our strike by respect­ to all our requests for informa­ negotiations. Some clarifications ments. We also put organiza­ ing our picketlines. The NMU, tion and whatever gear we might of the contract are necessary. tional material and the LOG MCS, and MFOWW likewise re­ need. Relations with the operators aboard all the ships, and collect spected our lines. The Union structure can al­ are good at this time. "We have as many pledges as possible to ways be made more streamlined little difficulty in getting our Our strike apparatus seems to be sent in to New York. and efficient by more and more beefs settled. In New Orleans, we are en­ be functioning effectively, but cooperation by all hands. Full We have no trouble with the gaged in a drive in fhe tugboats, improvements can be made by port has made is in regard to cooperation throughout the Or­ revamping last year's set-up to Coast Guard, and the situation stopping shipboard promotions, ganization will bring about full and there is a good possibility on aliens does not affect this that some of the companies will meet the needs that may lie which will be brought up at this efficiency. ahead and by further educating Conference. be brought under the SlU ban­ We're paying oft" an average of port, as we only have about 25 the membership through the We regulai-ly submit a report four ships a week in Texas Ports, around. ner. Union's program. to the LOG, in addition to any with more coming in on transit In order to keep expanding, The Hall in this port is the We are continually trying to other material we feel might be calls. We have not found cause property of the Union, and is the members here feel it is necessary for every SIU member strengthen the AFL Port Coun­ of interest to the membership. to submit beefs to New York, always kept clean and in order. and official in every port to talk cil by improving the relations of The Branch regularly distributes since all of them are settled sat­ We have had no trouble get­ to every unorganized seaman and the member Unions and taking the LOG to all spots visited by isfactorily at the point of produc­ ting answers from other an active pai-t in the affairs of seamen. tion. tell the story of what an SIU Branches or from Headquarters, All hands take an active part contract means. Our wages and the Council. There are sufficient men on and what gear we request is sent conditions are our best argu­ Since the Taft-Hartley Law's in the membership meetings and the beach to handle the calls for to us as quickly as possible. effect may be felt when our con­ quorums are always present. jobs. If, at any time, we have a ments. About 2 to 4 ships payoff here In regard to Shipping Rules, tracts run out this year, it might Ways and means of building and shortage of manpower, we im­ New Orleans Branch recom­ mean a strike. We should, there­ strengthening the Union are the mediately call upon other ports each week and many in-transit mends that no shipboard promo­ fore, be fully prepared for what­ main topics discussed. for men. We have had no trouble vessels call here. Norfolk beefs The membership in Galveston in getting the coinpanies to fur­ are settled in Norfolk and we tions be allowed, and that no ever situation develops. In the Texas ports, the mem- is satisfied with the present con­ nish transportation for men be­ seldom pass along a beef to man be permitted to transfer Headquarters for settlement. from one job to another, even barship has given 100 percent co­ tracts, although some have stated ing sent to other ports. All officials in our Port are ac­ though both jobs are on the same operation in carrying out the a need for a few clarifications on We have frequently had to call ship. This is coming up fre­ Union Organizing Program, and working rules. Aside from the tively attending meetings of the on other Ports to help us crew quently, and the membership tliey seem to understand the wage increase, which the Nego­ local Port Council of the Mari­ ships, and never had any trouble benefits to all in expanding our tiating Committee is currently time Trades Department and wants action taken, operations in all fields. working on, the membership has working to improve the relations. collecting transportation from r' Our meetings are usually About five unorganized ships no further recommendations. It should be mentioned in this the companies. pretty active with many men Our relations with the oper­ report that Galveston Is an ac­ taking part in the discussions. come into ports in,our area each Our Branch is cooperating all Main topics are organizing, week and we are providing every ators in this Port are good and tive Port Insofar as om- affiliate, the way with the other affiliates wages and conditions, and the possible help to the Organizing we have no trouble in settling the Marine Allied Workers, is of the Port Council, and we Department in contacting these any beefs, with the exception concerned. The Galveston Branch general welfare of th? Union. Although plenty of men take ships and attaining the Union's of the Los Angeles Tanker out­ of the SIU services these tugs work with any other honest Un­ ion that asks us for help. and services the membership. the deck to be heard on the vari­ objectives, ^e Branch's staff is fit. keitb Alsop, Agent ous subjects that come up, never- always available to aid the Or­ : The Coast Guard is, no problem Ben P. Ijlc^ Acti^ Agent Report of Galveston Agent 't Page Nine �• . Iv. !P H Jf S ^ I^A A 1^ K S- L O G Ten r Friday. February 27. 1948 meONFEBlH On Finances The Committee appointed to shall be* immediately remove< make recommendations on the from office, pending charges and finances of the Organization has trial as per the Constitution o: given consideration to all finan- our Union, cial phases of the Union ahd 3. Hospital Donations: the following are our recom- Committee has had it pointed out that, in some ports. Hospi­ mendations: 1. Economizing Program: This tal Donations are taken up to Committee finds that the current give to local Hospitals. This program for economizing, as laid Committee is of the opinion that down by Headquarters Offices this practice of distribution this past year, has been an asset should be discontinued, and al to the Union. A study of the such donations shall be remitted Headquarters Financial Reports.] to the Hospital Fund of.the Atclearly shows that the expenses _ lantic and Gulf District, and for the Union for the past year ' shall therefore be paid to our members due same in the form were greatly reduced. This Conunittee therefore rec- as laid down in our Constituommends to endorse this 1947 tion. - Economizing Program in its en- 4. Hospital Benefits to Permit tirety, and that it be kept in Members: This Committee recommends that any permit mem­ fuil effect for the year 1948. We further recommend that ber, with all current assessments any official not following the and dues paid to date, be al­ recommendations on the Econo­ lowed to pay previous Hospital Assessments to the amoimt of $10.00, and thus be entitled to all Hospital and Death benefits, sub­ ject to Article 25, Section 1(b) of our Constitution. The purpose of making the recommendation to allow permit members hospital benefits is due to the fact that we have had various complaints from these permit members, stating that they are not allowed to receive The Committee appointed to such benefits. act on the contracts and negotia­ Inasmuch as our .egular book tions of the SIU, ' Atlantic and members have previously had to mizing Program of the Union pay these assessments to receive Gulf District, has thoroughly "shall give, upon request from these benefits, it is recommended studied the Headquarters Report Headquarters, written reasons as that before any permit man can of the Union and feels that this ta why this program has not receive the same benefits in like matter is well covered in that report. We recommend that all been adhered to. manner that he too shall be re­ members and officials study this In the event such occurs. quired to pay as well. Headquarters then shall be em­ Conclusion: Your Committee particular Headquarters Report powered to assign any official or on Finances requests that the thoroughly. The Union's previous Action in officials to that particular port setting up a Headquarters Nego­ under question on the matter of tiating Committee has jproved Finances of the Union, for the very effective. To witness this purpose of seeing to it that the fact, our present contracts nego­ mandate of the membership is tiated in the year 1947 are now carried out. the best in the industry in every 2. Donations: The question of manner. donations being taken on ships Particular evidence of this is for various matters has been shown by the fact that our Nego­ brought to the attention of this tiating Committee was successful Committee. This Committee, af­ in obtaining from the very ter deliberation of this subject, toughest outfit in the industry. recommends that in the future, Isthmian Steamship Company, no donations be taken on board one of the finest contracts now any vessel which are not re­ in existence. ceipted for on an official Atlan­ membership adopt these recom­ For that reason, this Commit­ tic and Gulf District Receipt. mendations so that they may be tee strongly recommends that the In the event such collections are made on board vessels in a put into effect as soon as possi­ present practice of the Head­ particular port for any port ble. We are of the opinion that quarters Negotiating Committee beefs, this money is to be re­ these recommendations, if adopt­ of the SIU, Atlantic and Gulf ceipted in the official financial ed, will benefit the membership District, be continued and that report of the Branch, remitted of our Union. We further call the officials and membership to Headquarters, and Headquar- on every member and official continue to support this Commit­ .tersr in turn shall issue a check alike at all times to take as tee in the same manner as they covering the amount to those great an interest as possible in did in 1947. A compact Organization and persons designated by the people the finances of our Union, as making donations as recipients. well as for the successful prose­ direct, centralized action on the This Committee further recom­ cution of our Economizing Pro­ question of negotiations is es­ pecially necessary for this year mends, in the matter of dona­ gram. 1948, because of the fact that all tions, that any official not giv­ C. Haymond our contracts are expiring at one ing proper receipts as listed in W. Siekmann this recommendation, once con­ Lindsay Williams time or another this year, and curred in by the membership. we will be faced with the prob­ S. Colls lems coming up as a result of the Taft-Hartley Law. This Committee feels that it is needless to go into the various ramifications of this issue inas­ much as it has been covered thoroughly in different issues of the SEAFARERS LOG and pre­ vious Headguarters Reports. We do state and strongly r^om- On Contracts, Negotiations The correctness of the last Agents Conference in going on record to .tighten up the strike structure of the Union was proven by the successful and allout effort made in the Isthmian Strike in the year 1947. There is no need of going into this strike, as a complete analysis df it was carried in the SEAFAR­ ERS LOG and the results are now well known. In spite of the fact that the Union's strike actions have been successful, your Committee feels that a continued effort should be made to set up an even tighter strike structure. Also, it is to be considered that, in the event of strikes in the maritime industi-y this coming year, the Union should be in a good con­ dition to handle any beefs. The outlook in this industry is of such a nature, because of the Taft-Hartley Law, that we can nearly be positive there will be strikes in the coming year. For that reason, this committee re­ commends the following: 1. The Headquarters Offices should draft and set up new picket cards and picket card sys­ tem for every port, so they can be put into use on an hour's no­ tice. 2. Eaoh Port Agent to be re­ sponsible upon notification by Headquarters Offices ta put all strike, kitchen equipment, etc., into condition so it can be put into operation upon one hour's notice. 3. That copies of the SIU Booklet, "Strikes and Strike Strategy" be redrafted and re­ vised and sufficient copies be put into each port for all members and officials to study. 4. That the membership favor­ ably consider the proposition of assessing themselves an addi­ tional single $10 Strike Assess­ mend, however, that the Union must be on guard at all times, and the Negotiating Committee must be prepared at any time to use any means necessary i6 safe­ guard our contracts in the com­ ing 1948 Negotiation periods. The Committee further rec­ ommends that the following is­ sues be taken care of as soon as * possible: 1. Clarify with South Atlantic that SIU men shipped from Sa­ vannah to jobs in Jacksonville are to be paid transportation. 2. Check the contracts and ask for negotiations with the oper­ ators concerned on the question of additional men for passenger vessels, as well as living quarters for same. 3. We request that the mem­ bership and all officials give their opinions immediately to the Negotiating Committee as to the advisability of obtaining spe­ cific wage increases for the Bo­ sun, in lieu of high overtime in contracts now in existence. 4. Some manner of clarification of the Stewards Department working rules be set up. This ap­ plies to actual working rules and conditions for departmental mem­ bers, more so than the redrafting ment for -the purpose of creating of contract conditions. a greater Strike Fund. While 5. The Negotiating Committee we have $672,333.98 in our total of the Union is to gather all rec­ Strike Funds now, and with total ommendations as to the laying cash on hand of well over out of crews quarters on differ­ $1,000,000.00, this Committee ent and specific type vessels, and feels that we can be even better approach the operator during ne-heeled financially for any strike, gotiations period to correct this matter on vessels needing same* such as the type of the General This applies to mattresses, wash­ Maritime Strike of 1946, if this assessment were passed. ing machines, etc. Upon concurrence ^Xrith this, re­ 6. The Negotiating Committee is to stand instructed to set the port, it is recommended that the expiration date# of all contracts Strike Assessment be put on a on the same date. This to be done referendum ballot before the membership immediately. as soon as feasible. Ben Rees , Ray White R. Matthews Simincnt^ J. p. Shuler C.^aymond ^'•4 J �-. Friday. February^?. 1$4S ^ H E SEJiFAR E RS LOG • ,v- ' '•• -:,-'-?WS,%i>*--"^ Page Fleven On Education And The Log This Committee, appointed to 5. Further, that the Director study the report on the Seafar- of Organization, in assuring the 'ers Log and Union Education, Union 100 percent use of all its facilities and personnel to see has done so carefully. In the its educational aims successfully course of studying the report, carried out, should ~ place the reference has been made to the responsibility for distribution on Log and to the educational -ma­ the Port Officials in their re­ terial published last year and spective areas. that presently in process of pub­ 6. That the same system of enforcement of Union policy lication. • employed with respect to its The fact that we do have Organizing Drive be adopted to good Union " paper was proven insure successful administration in a contest sponsored by the of the Educational Program. International Labor P^ess of E. Sheppard America in which the Seafai-ers C. Starling Log won two Certificates of L. Gardner Award for being one of the J. Algina best trade Union papers' in the field.. Membership ] interest in the Union paper reached new heights during the past year. A much larger number of members used the Log as a med­ ium of -expression for new ideas, suggestions and stories of ship­ board activity than in any pre­ We, the Committee appointed vious year. Issues of Union in­ to act on the Buildings and Halls, terest • were discussed pro and have met and the following are con in the paper. In addition to our findings and recommenda­ the prestige which the paper helps build for the Union in the tions: general labor movement, and its The Building Program, of the use as a publicity medium, it is Union has proven successful, in­ also a yardstick of the heighten­ asmuch as it has made it possible ed membership interest in their for us to own our facilities in Union and its affairs. As for the quality of material the Ports of Boston, Norfolk, which the Union is now putting Tampa, Mobile and New Orleans. out under its educational pro­ The satisfaction of the mem­ gram, the Committee finds it to bership in the established set­ be good. What is lacking, how­ ups of these Halls which we own ever, is sufficient quantity. We is constantly shown by their ac­ need more educational literature tions in various meetings and to enlighten the membership on minutes appearing in the SEA­ every phase of Union activity. FARERS LOG. An enlightened membership, con­ scious of its role, is a sure sign Therefore, we make the follow­ of Union success. The Log and ing recommendations: our other educational material 1. In those ports in which we are means of obtaining this goal. maintain permanent Branches, With this thought in mindj- the such as New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Savannah, Galveston In accord with the economy time for meeting nights. Second, been made to this Committee Re­ and San Juan, and do not own it would save expenses on post­ garding certain Branches' failure Union Halls, we recommend that program the Headquarters Of- age. Third, it would allow for all to answer communications as we purchase our own quarters ffices continually seek ways and" Branch minutes to be printed in quickly as possible from other in each of these ports, and set means to reduce the expenses of the SEAFARERS LOG, inas­ ports. This Committee feels this them up in as efficient and eco­ the Organization, while at the much as they will be printed at problem must be eliminated in nomical manner as po-ssible. same time maintain the maxi­ Headquarters and will thus be order to serve the membership 2. We recommend to each Port mum of officiency in Union op­ on hand for the Editor's use. efficiently and satisfactorily, and Agent that he is charged with di­ eration. This Committee, after This Committee feels that this advises all Agents at this Con­ rect responsibility of the prop­ thorough study of the Headquar­ ference to attend to all commun­ erty of this Union, and it is ters Report and discussion with program should be begun imme­ ications promptly. brought to his attention to see the various Agents attending this diately upon acceptance of this Agents Conference Report by the Cal Tanner • to it that they are kept clean at Conference, recommends the fol­ membership. ' J. Volpian all times, and that he be answer­ lowing plan regarding Branch A few, minor complaints have Wm. Rentz able to the membership for same. Committee recommends that a 3. This Committee recommends Minutes: It is recommended that after policy be set up in relation to that the Philadelphia Port Agent each Branch meeting, the Port Union education, as follows: be instructed to immediately Agents in their respective Bran­ 1. That, as soon as it is pos- make every possible effort to seches type up an original and one sible, the Seafarers Log be en- cure new quarters in the Port The Committee appointed to. that it has been. That is as folduplicate of the previous night's larged in size by four pages,'of Philadelphia for the memberact on recommendations as follows: making it twenty in all, to in- j ship, due to the. very bad condimembership admission, has 1. Any perrnit men desirous of crease its coverage of the mem- tions the membership now has checked the report of the Head­ becoming a Union member shall bership's activities and interests, existing in the Union Hall in that quarters Offices thoroughly, as be allowed membership only sub­ well as our membership files. 2. That the educational pro-1 Port. ject to the recommendations of gram be stepped up and the 4. We recommend that no ad' As fa result of this, the follow­ the Organizers. number of educational publica-! ditional Halls be opened at this ing are our findings and recom­ 2. The Organizers are to tise tions increased, especially in time for the Union. However, discretion regarding the men "al­ mendations: view of the low cost of opera­ Headquarters Offices is to keep We find that we have around lowed membership in this Union tion. a constant survey on the situa­ 11,000 full book members in the and they are to keep the num­ 3. That a method gf distribu­ tion and when it is necessary to Atlantic and Gulf District as ap­ ber of men admitted as low''as tion is necessary whereby the do so, sucli new Halls shall be plies to approximately 15,000 possible. Seafarers Log and all other edu­ opened subject to membei'ship contracted off-shore jobs. This Conclusion: This Committee cational material will reach all action and approval. is a healthy condition, and we feels that, of all the Unions' in members and unorganized sea­ The Committee recommends figure that at all times the Union the marine industry, greater men and. any other points on that the membership go on rec­ J -A'. should maintain membership in value is placed on an SIU book which the Union may decide. ord as submitting to a Referen­ such a manner that we are never than membership in any other 4. Since the Organizing Staff dum Ballot calling for an addi­ meeting, mail one copy to Head­ overloaded any more than neces- Union. We feel that the best already has established the.nec­ tional $10 Building Assessment quarters Office and keep the saiy with book membership as way to maintain this is to con­ essary well-functioning apparatus for the purpose of creating a other on file. Headquarters, upon applies to contracted jobs. tinue the practice of having and procedure for reaching all large enough Building Fund to receibt of these copies, shall type every prospective member show There hag been discussion on his true Union worth in actual points in all ports, and since the continue our Program of pur­ and run off all minutes from the various Branches and mail them whether or not to open books. work for the Union before be­ Union Educational Program in­ chasing Halls in the ports where out simultaneously to all ports. We are not in favor of opening ing allowed book membership. ' terlocks with the Union Organi­ they are needed. books and are of the definite This plan would serve three zational Program, the Director Ray White Ben Rees purposes. First, it would allow opinion that membership admis­ of Organization should be charg­ C. Simmons J. Volpian for all minutes from all Branches sion for the future should, be ed with the task of administra­ J. P.. Shuler vto be received simultaneously, in governed in the -same maimer If tion of a soimd distribution plan. On Buildings And Hails On Operation Of Union Apparatus •i fi On Membership Admissien \r .V| �P«9« TW41T« This Committee has studied carefully the report on Govern­ ment Agencies and Legislation. We find that, in general, Gov­ ernment Agencies have main­ tained their indifference toward merchant seamen and that Con­ gress, with the same indifference, has neglected to enact muchneeded legislation in behalf of men who so valiantly stayed on the job during this Nation's greatest peril. More than ever ds it evident that only through the Union can seamen improve their lot. The Committee therefore makes the following recommen­ dations: m'. 1. That in view of the threat it poses for the future of our membership, in particular, and for the shipping industry in gen­ eral, the provision in the Mar­ shall Plan calling for the trans­ fer of 500 ships to the foreign nation be removed from the pro­ posed legislation for European recovery. Further, that we do everything in our power con­ sistent with Union policy to effect removal of this dangerous provision which places the en­ tire maritime industry in jeop­ ardy. 2f. That in view of the threat by the Coast Guard to extend and tighen its control over the THE S EA f- A R ERS I O G On Government teencfes Andlegislation powers detrimental TO the rights and welfare of merchant seamen. 3. On various occasions, Union members have suggested that the Union press for a law bringing unemployment insurance for sea­ men under federal administra­ tion, in order that the process of obtaining payment can be simpli­ fied and be made the same in all ports. It is the considered opinion of this Committee that it would be extremely difficult to press Con­ gress for such a change, because the question of States' rights would be introduced into debates by legislators from States which emphasize those rights and guard them jealously. These legislators would con­ tend that their states have prob­ lems which could not be fitted into a national mold. Accord­ ingly, if such a change were made, the unemployment bene­ fits would be at a minimum, far below the present low standards. Therefore, this Committee recom­ mends that the Union press for a more adequate and equitable unemployment insurance plan, to be administered as at present by the individual states, and it fur­ ther recommends that each Agent deal with the problem in his own state. 4. The bills affecting the wel­ fare of Merchant Seamen which are currently pigeonholed in Congress have long been urged by the Seafarers. The Commit­ tee recommends that this Con­ ference reaffrm the SIU's posi­ tion by calling for immediate enactment of: Id rights and activities of merchant seamen through the proposed Re­ codification Bill, this Bill be sub­ jected to close scrutiny by the Union. Further, that we do everything in our power con­ sistent with Union policy • to re­ move from this Bill the provi­ sions which the Coast Guard has introduced, and which would giye the Coast Guard added a. Legislation which will pro­ vide benefits to seamen (and their families) who saw wartime service aboard the nation's merchant ships, and that these benefits be sim­ ilar in range to those granted to members of the Armed Services. b. A bill granting citizenship to alien seamen whose serv­ ice aboard American ships Five Resolutions Passed By A&G Agents Conference ^ Following are five resolutions, S;, unanimously approved by the re­ cent Agents Conference. These resolutions deal with Shore _ Gangs, Relationship with Pacific and Great Lakes Districts, Eli­ mination of Pay Inequities, Slopchests, and the Canadian District. ence in their next negotiations session with the operators this year to make all possible efforts to eliminate the inequities exist­ ing in regards to various key ratings on board SIU vessels in compai'ison with lesser ratings. RESOLVED: That SIU Head­ quarters be instructed to start as soon as possible a survey aimed at deciding what is the besi ty^ of action to take so as to guar­ antee better slop chests in quan­ tity, price and quality on board SIU contracted vessels. Such findings and recommendations on i same to be made to the mem­ l^ESOLVED: That the Atlan­ bership as soon as possible. tic and Gulf District notify the Pacific District and the Great Lakes District that we are pre­ RESOLVED: That this Con­ pared to meet them at a time ference instruct the Secretaryand place mutually agreeable to Treasurer to notify the Interna­ air districts concerned for the tional of this Union of our ac­ purpose of ironing out any prob­ tion in stopping financial expen­ lems that exist on the question ditures in the Canadian District of shipping, etc., and to further and to notify all companies con­ clarify any problem that may tracted to the SIU that all jre.exist between the districts. placements for SIU contracted RESOl^VED; That the Nego- vessels in the East Coast Ports { tiafing Committee stand as in- of Canada are to come from the ; structed by this Agents* Confer­ S^U Hall in Boston, Mass. RESOLVED: That the SIU Organizing Staff be instructed to once again take up the ques­ tion of establishing SIU con­ tracted and controlled shore gangs in every possible port to do' work on vessels contracted to the SIU. Ftiday, February 27, 1448 contributed so much to the nation's victory. We feel that this is the least recogni­ tion the Govei-nment can make of their contributions to the war effort. Until pas­ sage of such a bill; we are on record to allow these men to sail American ships • until they acquire citizen­ ship under existing law. facilities to include treat­ ment for members of a Merchant seaman's immedi­ ate family. On the Taft-Hartley Law, the SIU's position is already clear. The Committee recommends that the Conference reaffrm the stand, adopted at regular meet­ ings on July 2, 1947, which fol­ lows: c. A law which would provide "1. The SIU-SUP go on record (liability benefits to sea­ as not tolerating in any way, men disabled as a result of shape, or form any interference with our Union Halls by ship­ owners or Government bureaus. Its policy of favoring foreign flag interests over domestic ship­ pers has resulted in the Amer­ ican Merchant Marine being re­ duced to an insecure position in world shipping. Not content with the fact that foreign bottoms are now carrying. the greater portion of ocean com­ merce, the Commission is now trying to destroy Unions by set­ ting up irlerior wage scales for the vessels it charters. We feel the Conftrence should again take the stand that the "2. That the SIU-SUP consider as a lockout any attempts by any persoi^ or persons to use the Taft-Hartley Law to the detri­ ment of our Unions." Ml enemy action, and which would provide death bene­ fits payable to the families of seamen killed or who 'died while engaged in war­ time service aboard Amer­ ican ships. d. Legislation which would make it mandatory for all Marine Hospitals to give treatment to . all seamen^ re­ gardless of the length of of time they have been on the beach. The Committee also recommends extension of the Marine Hospital In repeating this stand, we should demand repeal or amend­ ment of the Law to the point where it is rendered harmless to organized labor. Further, that we remain vigilant for any signs in­ dicating that thie Law will be used for Union-busting purposes in the maritime industry and that if such signs appear, the Union act accordingly. Throughout the past years, the SIU has consistently condemned the Maritime Commission, and branded it as an agency whose purpose was to bring about fink conditions in the Maritime In­ dustry. The Program which the Commission has followed last year shows that pur earlier stand was a correct one. The Commis­ sion is still attempting to weaken seamen's unions and the shipping industry. Maritime Commisison is an enemy of the merchant seamen and the industry, and that all possible efforts should be made to discourage the continuation of that ^agency. Overall, it is the Committee's unqualified opinion that any ad­ vances of merchant seamen will only be realized through the efforts of the Union. Every Seafarer should there­ fore give his all-out support to the SIU program. Gal Tanner Wm. Rents J. Volpian *GIPEAI THE DOOR, BOiARD/^ �'-f::-"--; - .Jrmm Friday. February 27, 1948 Conslitulion: This Committee has analyzed the various recom­ mendations pertaining to amend­ ing the Constitution. Most of these matters are of such a na­ ture that they could not be con­ sidered as vital. This Committee is of the opinion that the Con­ stitution should only be amend­ ed when necessary. The Committee points out that the only question pertaining to the Constitution arose in one port only, where the question wds raised as to whether to count the ballots of the 1947 elections at the first or the sec­ ond meetirfgs in January. This entire matter was covered in the Headquarters Report of Jan­ uary 2, 1948: The report was very clear on this matter and as a result the membership voted in favor of the recommendations made in the report. Considering these facts, this Constitutional Committee recom• mends that no amendments to the Constitution be submitted to the membership as a result of deliberation of either this Com­ mittee or of this Conference. Shipping Rulqg: The Commit­ tee on Shipping Rules has stud­ ied various proposals made by the membership from shipboard meetings, branch meetings, as well as individual letters. The recommendations made in this matter cover a wide range, and deal with practically every sense of the Shipping Rules in one manner or another. Among those most frequently brought up are the following: 1. Promotions or transfer of jobs on board ship. 2. Setting up a rule for quali­ fications for men taking key rat­ ings. 3. Failure of the Shipping Rules to properly cover the sub­ ject of the kind of action to be ^ taken when the Ordinary Sea­ men or Wipers fail to properly clean the crew's quarters as per the agreement. " While there are other issues raised on the question of the -Shipping Rules, these in the main, were the most frequently discussed. Considering this fact, thjs Committee, therefore, recom­ mends on the matters listed above, the following: . 1. Shipboard Promotions or Transfer of Jobs: On this ques­ tion, it appears that the mem­ bership is of the strong opinion that the rule should be changed in such a manner that there shall be no shipboard promotions or transfer of jobs in any man­ ner, except in time of extreme emergency where the Hall can­ not ship the desired rating so that the ship can sail. This Committee recommends, therefore, that Section 29 in the present Shipping Rules be de­ leted and the following be in­ corporated in the rules as Sec­ tion 29: " • "No man may be promoted or allowed to transfer from one job to another on board ^hip ex- - . • ' • . • • '• • 1 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Thirteen On Shipping Ruies And Constitution cept in case of extreme emerg­ ency. This to apply where there isn't sufficient time to dispatch a man from,the Union Hall be­ fore the ' ship is scheduled to leave, or the Hall cannot fur­ nish the replacements as re quired. Any member guilty of breaking this rule shall lose the j.ob immediately and shall be fined no less than $25.00 for such offense." 2. Rules for Qualifications for Men Taking Key Ratings: There appears to be a great variation in the membership's opinion on the matter of the necessary sea time and qualifications for ship­ ping as rated men. This Com- mendations on this question, which shall then be submitted back to the membership for -ac­ tion. 3. Action Regarding Failure of Ordinary Seamen or Wipers to Properly Clean Crew's Quar­ ters: This matter has come up numerous times and it has been pointed out that, on some vessels, Ordinary Seamen and Wipers are not doing a proper job of cleaning crews quarters in the two hour period which the' Un­ ion had such a hard struggle in taking from the shipowner. The Committee feels that enough of an issue has been made of this and that the membership should have the opportunity of oting on this question. This Obmmittee therefore recommends that the following clause be adopted in place of the present Section 30, ' such clause to be known as Section 30 of the Ship­ ping Rules: "Qrdinary SeSmen and Wipers shipped to contracted vessels who fail to put in tow^ hours allotted time for cleaning the crew's quarters as per contract shall be brought up on charges by the ship's crew. For such offense, the guilty member shall be fined not less than $10 for each such infraction." The subject of the manner in which a man registers for ship­ ping in any particular port has been dealt with by this Com­ mittee, and it is this Commit­ tee's opinion that this is a local Port affair. We therefore recom­ mend that this matter be dealt with in each Port by local Com­ mittees and once such Commit­ tees have met and made recom­ mendations on same, that these recommendations be posted in a conspicuous place in the Un­ ion Hall. Conclusion: Upon'^ the accep­ tance by the membership of this Agents Conference Report, it is recommended that these matters as recommended in this report, shall be submitted as per Con­ stitution to a Referendum Bal­ lot immediately. Ben Rees R. Matthews J. P. Shuler On Organization mittee, therefore, has no definite recommendation to submit on a referendum ballot, but recom­ mends instead that within 30 days after action by the mem­ bership on this Agents, Confer­ ence Report, that Committees be elected in each SIU Branch for ftie purpose of drafting that par­ ticular membership ideas in that area on the subject. Each Port, upon completion of such report by these Committees, shall then forward them to the Headquar­ ters Offices. Headquarters Offices shall then elect at the Head­ quarters meeting a Headquarters Committee, qs per the Constitu­ tion, for the purpose of drafting all these Port reports into one final report, with direct recom­ Your Committee, appointed for the purpose of studying the Organizer's Report, delivers the following report and recom­ mendations on same: After considerable discussion with the Organizing Staff and various Port Agents and a re­ view of the Organizer's Report, as well as the General Organiz­ ing Program Report carried in the SEAFARERS LOG of November 7, 1947, we feel that it is necessary at this time to reaffirm the duties and rules governing the Organizing Staff and Program of Uie Union, and at the same time make direct reconunendations so as to guar­ antee ap even more successful Organizing Program than has been possible to date. • Our recommendations are as fol­ lows: 1. Organizational Offices shall be £iet up in Headquarters for the purpose of directing the Or­ ganizing Work of the Union. 2. Lindsey Williams, present General Organizer of the Union, to be named as the Director of Organization for all such work as,comes imder this Division of the Union, and that his salary be the same as that of an Assist­ ant Secretary-Treasurer. 3. The Director of Organiza­ tion be empowered to appoint as many Organizers and Assistant Organizers as are needed in his opinion to further the best inter­ ests of the Union. 4. That the Director of Or­ ganization shall submit a weekly financial report covering in de­ tail all expenditures which shall be handled as part of the Head- quarters financial report, ^d that this report be checked in detail by the weekly Auditing Committee, as per Constitution. 5. That all expenditures made by the Director of Organization involving the work laid out for him by the membership shall be paid from the General Fund'of the Union. 6. Since the limited means of transportation available to the Organizing Department has been a problem in our drives, the Committee recommends continu­ ation of the practice followed in the past. The Director of Or­ ganization is to direct the use of automobiles by the Department in any way he deems necessary to the best interest of the Or­ ganizing effort. , 7. That the $5.00 Annual Or­ ganizational Assessment s h a^ 1 continue to be remitted directly to the General Operating Fund. This is recommended to prevent the organizing work of the Union from draining the General Fimd itself, and at the same time .fo eliminate the necessity"" for the establishment of separate funds., 8. That a weekly detailed re­ port of all physical activities en­ gaged in by the Organizing Staff shall ^e made by the Director of Organization to the Headquart^s Offices of the Union. ^ 9. The Director of Organization is to work in direct contact with the Secretary-Treasurer, Assist­ ant Secretary-Treasurers and the New York Port Agent at ^ times to discuss the various prob­ lems with them. He is to issqe, through the medium of the SEA­ FARERS LOG, reports on the progress of the Union's Organiz­ ing Drive in such a manner so "as not to interfere with the or- : ganizational work of the Union. The above recommendations are specifically made to clarifjs,. Uie duties of the Director of Or­ ganization and at the same time give him the authority to accom­ plish the job. Your Committee (Continued on Next Page) a �Page Fourteen TH E A to G Friday, February 27< 1948 Conference Committees Sessions Ran Smoothly Set Up By Conference i To handle all the necessary Aftei- the Agents Conference work of the Conference, Commit­ had been called to order the tees from among the Agentts and morning of February 16 and officials in attendance were ap­ Chairman. and Secretary had pointed,. and then " each • Commit­ been elected, the first order of tee from among the Agents and the consideration of the entire .business was the adoption of an group.. I A; agenda. The following cbnunittees, • Following full discussion of appdihted: ' overall Union problems, it was •.y! moved by Mobile Agent Gal Tan­ FINANCE — Lindsey Williams, ner, seconded by New Orleans Walter Sielunann, S^yador Colla,Agent Earl (Bull) Sheppard and Charles Raymond. • carried that the Headquarters Report be considered first and CONTRACTS AND NEGOTIA­ be followe4 by thr Organizer's TIONS—Beri Rees, Robert Mat­ Report, the LOG .and Education thews, J. P. Shuler, Charles Ray­ Report, the Port Reports, the mond. Appointment of Committees, General. Proposals and Resolu­ GOVERNMENT AGENCIES & tions, and Good and Welfare. LEGISLATION — Cal Tanner, . The eight subdivisions of the William Rentz, Joseph Volpian. ' Headquarters Report were con­ BUILDINGS AND HALLS— sidered in the following order: Ray White, Sonny Simmons, Finances, as the very sinew of Keith Alsop. the Union came first, followed by Contracts and Negotiations. OPERATION OF UNION AP­ ,' Then came Government Agencies PARATUS—Cal Tanner, William and Legislation including Coast Rentz, Joseph Volpian. Guard, the Taft-Hartley Act, Un. employment Insurance, the Mar­ STRIKES —Ray White, Sonny shall Plan, the Maritime Com­ Simmons, Keith Alsop. mission and other governmental and legislative matters. After SHIPPING RULES AND CON­ that, followed Buildings and STITUTION — Ben Rees, Robert Halls, the Operation of Union Matthews, J. P. Shuler. Apparatus, Strikes, Shipping MEMBERSHIP AS APPLIED Rules and Constitution, and Membership as Compared with Continued from Preceding Page) 1. The Port Agent in each made to the membei-ship to TO JOBS—Ben Rees, Joseph Vol­ feels, however, that, in setting Branch .shall be responsible for "clarify the issues in doubt. pian, J. P. Shuler. Jobs. 5. That all Port Agents, Patrol­ up the Organizing Program for all organizational activities in RIGHT TO WORK men and other Union officials de­ ORGANIZING—Earl Sheppard, this coming j'ear, the record that area and shall direct his full vote full attention to unorganized clearly shows the need for a By lunch time the first day, sustaining program in regards to attention, as well as that of the ships coming into their respec­ Charles Starling, Joe Algina, the Conference had heard and the duties of other officials of Patrolmen and all Port facilities, tive ports. Lloyd Gardner. accepted all reports including the Union in conjunction with to any organizational objective In cbnclusion, the Committee selected by the Union at any calls upon every Port Agent to those from the eleven Ports rep­ LOG AND EDUCATION—Earl time. resented. But this was-hardly a not stop at merely giving lip Sheppard, Charles Starling, Joe beginning. The main work of the ' 2. The Port Ageirt in each service to the organizational ef­ Algina, Lloyd Gardner. Conference was yet to come, Branch shall make certain that forts of this Union, but to di­ FUNCTIONED WELL the Union's affairs in his par­ rectly concern himself, person­ The Committees were appoint­ ticular Port are at all times a ally, with every problem that The various Committees ed the first afternoon, but before credit to. the Union and are in an may come up out of the Seafar- worked smoothly and submitted the committees went into action efficient working condition. I'eports, which after approval of there was further general dis­ the Conference as a whole, were cussion of the Union's general 3. The Director of Organiza­ status and policy by which the adopted for action of the mem­ tion, or any Organizer so as­ committees should be guided. bership. The reports are con­ signed by him,, Shall at any time This discussion lasted until the tained in this supplement. be empowered to take up any afternoon of the second day. matter pertaining to the organiz­ Approval of the membership ing work of the Union as con­ was voted in regular meetings, Committee work and further tained in this report with the gefaeral discussion kept the Ag­ that of the Organizer's work. up and down the coast, on Wed­ The record also clearly shows Port Agent, and make direct re­ ents busy until late that night. nesday, February 25. that at times aU officials of this commendations on the matter In previous years the annual The third day, Wednesday, Union have not given full co­ concerned . F^ruary 18, the morning was operation in this matter. . It is Agents Conference has been held 4. The Director of Organiza­ again spent in general discus­ this Committee's intention to in March or April. However, this tion, in carrying out the Orsion of the problems faced by point out to this Agents Confer­ year, in view of the Taft-Hartley .v;l ganizidg Program, is to immedi­ the committees with all con- ence and the membership that law and other menaces to a free ately call it to the attention o f^ees participating. During the such lack of cooperation must any Port Agent in any area where ers Organizing Program. This trade union movement, it was afternoon, the committees went be stopped for all time. the Organizing work of the Committee fee]|^ that there decided to hold the Conference. int?o session once more, and late It has been further pointed Union is being improperly should be no excuse for failure earlier. in ' the afternoon they began to Many of the morning and ou1> and the record once again handled. Matters of this sort are on the part of any official to submit their reports. afternoon sessions were devoted carry out the Organizing Pro­ shows this to be true, that every to be settlqd immediately. In •» When these reports had been Port of this Union plays a dis­ the event they are not settled gram to the fullest extent at all to discussion of the problems fac­ accepted by the Conference as tinct part, directly or indirectly, right away. Headquarters Offices times. ing the Union, and it was from a whole the parleys were over. in any organizing work done by shall then be notified as soon as these discussions that the four E. Sheppard SIU policy for 1948 had been this Union. In considering these possible, and the entire matter proposals due to cpme before the L. Gardner set, subject to membership ap­ points, this Committee therefore taken up by Headquarters Offices Charles Starling membership on a Referendum proval. Ballot were originated. J. Algina recommends the following: and direct recommendations On Organization 3'® �T H E S E jd F 4 H ^ n S 4-O € Friday^ February 27. 1948 Buffalo Sees Early Season By ALEX McLEAN Page Fifteen UP (Nrtine To insure poyxnent, all daiais for oirertime musi be lurnod in fo' fiie -heads of departmenis no later than 72 hours followii^ the comple­ tion of the overtime work. As soon as the penalty woric is done, a record should be given to the Department head, and one copy held by the man doing the job. In addition the depart­ mental delegates should check on all overtime sheets 72 hours Before the ship makes port. BUFFALO—This port is ex­ periencing its best winter in many years as far as snow is concerned. But rain and ice on the streets have played havoc with our members young and old. Right now we have three hos­ Membership irules require pitalized with fractures of legs every man entering the and arms: Thomas (Little Ad­ Union Halls to show his By E, B. TILLEY By RAFAEL V. ORTIZ miral) Fegan, broken ankle; Union book, pro-book permit PHILADELPHIA — Shipping Bryon Sharkey, broken leg; card or other authorized SAN JUAN — Shipping has continues slow here. So far this Frank Bain, broken shoulder and identification to the Door­ been very slow during the past week we've had just one pay­ wrist. There are some more man. This is for the mem­ month because the sugar season off, an Isthmian ship down Wil­ members taking medical treat­ hasn't quite started. When , the bership's protection. Don't mington way. ment. But the sun came out and season really s#lrts there will be waste the Doorman's — or She paid off under the old everybody is in better spirits. your own—^time by arguing considerable improvement. Isthmian working rules. The this point. Observe the rules Most of the boys on the beach The Buffalo membership wants crewmen who remained aboard want to get out now as the shore you make. to be remembered to the Great were glad to learn that real SIU gang jobs are scarce and the Lakes men in the Baltimore and rul^s would be in force from By FRANK MORAN weather will be turning better Staten Island hospitals, Fred now on. Incidentally, bad i as Petri, John Rothery. Speedy re­ TOLEDO — The Lake Carriers up the line as the weeks go by. shipping is here, we had to send The MV Ponce is expected covery, boys. Association is trying to flood the to Baltimore to crew her up Th^ winter fleet in this port Lakes shipping industry with in­ jack this week as she went out again. or only a short trip. And next is unloaded except for three The 'Outlook for next week is experienced youngsters again. week we should have some more ships. Since ice conditions look none too bright, either. How­ By RAY PULLIAM favorable, we expect an early LCA representatives, operating ships around. ever, we do hope ^to get a new opening of Lakes navigation this m small southern towns, ...are, Of course, there have been BALTIMORE — Shipping has Hall or do something about fix­ spring. showing free movies of the Great ships in here. The Kathryn, a been fair in this port and might ing up this one. Tixat will be An open letter to unorganized Lakes in local YMCA's. Glow­ Bull C-2, ,came in and will be even pick up. However, plenty some consolation. seamen and to the boys who ing advertisements in local here 15 days discharging cax-go of men are taking whatever The big event in the Quaker papers tell of the wonderful op­ and loading sugar. want to be seamen: comes along without being too City, outside of the fact that the portunities on the Lakes. "No The Monarch of the Seas, Wa­ choosey. weather softened, was a fourThe Great Lakes offer you terman, is in for five days and many opportunities. The letters experience needed," they say and will touch two other island ports We had about seven payoffs alarm fire which gutted the subon my desk now will be an­ sometimes make a special appeal before returning to New Orleans. £ind six sign-ons with the usual basement of a large furniture swered promptly to give you the for former Navy and Coast The Ferdinand Hassler, a Pope & companies, and a half dozen stoie next to the Hall. We were ships in transit. without telephone service after facts about getting your sea­ Guard men . Talbot Liberty, is at Mayaguez The beefs on these ships were 9:20 in the morning and we had Here is a sample ad, verbatim: men's papers. You men who have and will hit Norfolk and New sailed on non-union or Lakes "Good J6bs—Open soon on Great York before heading back to the all settled satisfactorily. Evexy- to evacuate the third floor when body got all the overtime com­ the smoke became too dense for Carrier ships can learn how to Lakes vessels. Boai-d, room fur­ West Coast. ' ing, and we managed to get all us. nished. Must be over 18. Have become SIU men too. the logs lifted. However, we had During the fire I saw a number SETTLE BEEFS The Maritime Trade Council birth certificate. No experience one SIU man, a permit, who got needed. See free Pathe movie, of Seafarers standing around of Buffalo is now in the mak­ There have been quite a few to throwing his weight around with their fingei's 'The Great Lakes.' Call at cTossed. I ing. In the near futux-e, its struc­ beefs, but we have settled them a little too much. YMCA, 2nd floor, Tuesday only, asked them if they were afraid ture and functions will be re­ to the satisfaction of all con­ 10 a.m. to 6 p.m." We asked him if he didn't the Hall woixld catch fire. Their ported in the LOG. cerned. There haven't been any care about his permit when he replies were blunt. They were real headaches. got to talking too much, but it afraid it wouldn't. "The Brothers on the beach didn't make much impression. That gives some idea of what down hex-e ax-e always ready to He knew all the answers and the membership thinks of this lend a hand in any ox-ganizin& figured everything was a joke. fire-trap of a place we have here. work that is to be done. We do GERALD E. HUDDLESTON WISE GUY our best to keep track of unor­ Your father reque.sts that you This wise guy—he. was in the ganized ships so that we can By JOE ALGINA get in touch with him at 410 Stewards Department—broke all hit them. McPherson Avenue, St. Louis the glasses and obviously did not . NEW YORK—New York ship­ Mo. care whether or not anybody ping is gradually shaking itself $ $ had anything to eat. warmer from the slow, cold pace ORVAL L. CLARK If a man was sick, this gent By C. M. TANNEHILL Your wife wishes you to con- it held for so many weeks, and would take his meal order and jtact her at 1517 Chestnut, Min­ showing signs of real life. then throw him anything and GALVESTON — Shipping sort neapolis, Minn. Shipping has been quite good use a little strong-arm stuff of boomed last week but this during the past week and prom­ if the sick man complained. Fin­ week there have been only thi^e ttBy JEFF MORRISOR ises to be just as good, if not RICHARD BROWN ' ally, he refused to work at all, jobs on the board. . And only one MOBILE — Shipping in this and then tried to give the Pa­ Liberty is scehduled to pay off Your former shipmates John better, during the coming fort­ Rath and Henry Gregorski want night. Men with ratings are port, has. taken a turn for the trolman a hard time. in this area. you to write them care of the finding it quite easy to get out, better despite the lay-up of a Seafarers won their present This port is pretty good for conditions the hard way. Wise Waterman Steamship Company. but the permitmen and unrated lot of Liberties. This week we have shipped guys like this one don't make ABs—when shipping is good, men stiU have to sweat it out They also suggest you send awhile for a ship. more than 300 men, and the keeping those conditions any that is. But other i-atings ajce letter home. slow even when shipping is okay, Like the good weather hitting outlook for coming -yveeks is easier. It's a good thing there because of the number of SUP » ft this for-so-long frozen port, the about as good. With two or three aren't many of them. CHARLES PERTS tankex-s hitting along this coast. payoffs have been coming off in payoffs a day and the same We'x-e still hitting the tankeis Get in touch jvith your brother, Lately we have been getting Robert Perts, in Washington, fine style. Even the Alcoa Cava­ number of sign-ons. Patrolmen when they come in and wiU some shore gang work for men Pennsylvania. He says it is im­ lier came in and paid off without here have been kept pretty bxxsy keep on hitting them. The mem­ on the beach. Mostly they clean^ any trouble. Others were the but have managed to get all the bers in this Branch are going portant that you do this. tanks, and some of the boys like Yaka and Webster, Waterman; major beefs settled to the crews' all out for those ships. t » it satisfaction. There are 20 men in the hos­ fine. It sux-e makes the beach and South Stax-, South Atlantic. FRANK GIMBER Don't get the idea that we pital here and they are doing easier. Your mother, Mrs. Inez GimNO HOLD UP have swept the beach. We all right. They keep asking about The port of Galveston fimcber, wants to hear fi-om you. Her haven't. Permits still find the shipping and send their best tions smoothly. We have more addiess: 602 West Court Street, The South Star's only trouble meetings than in,, for instanqe. going hard. But if we keep the to everybody. was over short stores, but this Winnfield, Louisiana. New Yox-k, because 'of the tug­ present rate of shipping the list was squared away before sailing 4» boats. ^ should be thinned down soon. time and the ship was not forced HERMAN (BILL)«KNIES There ai'e two tugboat meet­ Most of the Waterman ships Jean Burtless, 2770 Wynglen to lay over. ings a month in Galveston, two have already undergone their Lane, Los Angeles 23, California, Because of the alien problem, annual inspection and can ex­ Members who forward in Houston and one in Corpxtxs asks that you get in touch with a form is being prepared which pect to crew up now after they iheir membership books to Christi, in addition to the regiiwill be distributed to all aliens complete voyages. This is a con^ tho Now York HaU for retire­ lar deep-sea meetings twice a her tp fill out, giving their status in b b » trast to the past month when ment are urged to mark the month. regards to, citizenship. When th^ they have been laying up for envelope with the notaNoa The River Terminals tugboats D. D. WALKER Contact your brother, Roma H. machinery for the handling of. a couple of weeks while the "Attention: 6th floor," in or­ are the hax'dest ones for us to Walker, Rt. 4, Box 166, Dothan, this is set up in • all ports, a inspection took place. der to insure quickw hand­ catch. They come into Beau­ mont and stay less than eight Alabama. Your father is seri­ complete story will be run in the ling of the matter. LOG. hours. Then they are out again. Marking of the envelope in ously' ill. Before the Union ^an take Some of our men ax-e going to .manner advis^ above t 4steps to ease the probleifhs of our. ANDREW SCOTT will save time and will result Lake Charles to try to ship. They are all hepped up by our Get in touch with your father, .alien brothers, we have to know In prompt return of the book getting the Cities Service elec­ at 252 Swan Lake Drive, East exactly what the situation is— to the sender. that's the pixrpose of the forms. PatchQgue, Long Island. tion. ^ PR Waiting For Sugar Season Nleinbership Riries Philly Shipping Continues Slow LCA Trying To Flood Lakes SIU No Place Guys PERSONALS NY Shipping Is On The Rise ShoregatigWork Helps Galveston For Port Mobile RETIRING BOOKS i'i:. �Page Sixteen ~ "'' 'K THE S E A P ARE R S LOG Friday. Febfallry 27. 1948 SAM 0AV0 s '} '^:sl ft:':!? •Si I ••Ji .MW- i, lite-- 4;sS. fC?':j.. NO o \ bY to assessment, t „,aintain poets v,h« We DESEROE THE KSTOOR OWN HAU-S- IN EVERV PORT .M/ITH ABEQUATE MEEnN^ ROOMS AMD RECCEATION ROOMS PDRTHE TIME WE'Rt OMTHE, BEACH/ by the p ^^eded. P A KO G .^^3^ I I H 11" ^ ^ RES0I,VT >" '"""T'v" , A SORE PROTECTION I AGAWer AMV TAFT-HARTLEy lOEAS THAT ARE FUWi»/& ABOUT. IF A TEN BOCNBILIWiUL SA/e TWO IVEQCS oN THE PICKETUNf - ITS A CHEAP TENOoUARSJ b. deleted „ .„„tt,er S «««"" T" «« ""r»S M o-D AU. <iCeS OFF THE BQARP MEANS LESS TIME ON THE BEACH J - ^ YES JI^ srvs YES X. NO a PROTECT THE CONDITIONS WE FOUGHT SO HARD SET -AN SlU SHIP IS A I C|.eAN SHIP: 1^;:- SfJ-? fOR A 6^1ROHOBH .;.'i\5.-| � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 1939-1949 Description An account of the resource Volumes I-XI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource February 27, 1948 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. X, No. 9 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES: FOUR RESOLUTIOND GO TO REFERENDUM VOTE A&G MEMBER WILL BALLOT ON BIGGER STRIKE FUND AND NEW HALLS SEAFARERS TANKET DRIVE ROLLS ON BOUTWELL ACQUITTED BY JURY ; YOUTZY AWAITING NEW TRAIL CITIES TRIES TO STAL CERTIFICATION HEADQUARTERS REPORT REPORT TO BOSTON AGENT ORGANIZER'S REPORT REPORT OF LOG EDITOR REPORT OF NEW YORK REPORT OF TAMPA AGENT REPORT OF PHILADELPHIA AGENT REPORT OF MOBILE AGENT REPORT OF BALTIOMORE AGENT REPORT OF SAVANNAH REPORT OF SAN JUAN AGENT REPORT OF NEW ORELEANS AGENT REPORT OF NORFOLK AGENT REPORT OF GALVESTON ON FINANCES ON STRIKE ON CONTRACTS, NEGOTIATIONS ON EDUCATIOND AND THE LOG ON BUILDING ON OPERATION OF UNION APPARTUS ON MEMBERSHIPP ADMISSION ON GOVERMENT AGENCIES AND LEGISLATION FIVE RESOULUTIONS PASSED BY A&G AGENTS CONFERNCE ON SHIPPING RULES AND CONSTITION ON ORGANIZATION CONFERCES SESIONS RAN SMOOTHLY COMMITTEES SET UP UP BY CONFERENCE BUFFALO SES EARLY SEASON PHILLY SHIPPING CONTUNES SLOW PR WAITING FOR SUGAR SEASON LCA TRYING TO FLOOD LAKES SIU IS NO PLACE FOR WISE GUYS Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 02/27/1948 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America 1948 Periodicals Seafarers Log